From tiny to gigantic

That is how my garden grows this year. 

The roses are making a small comeback and sending out a few new blooms. Here is a new coral rose in formation:

When you are choosing your plants for the home next spring, I highly encourage you to consider a plant that has never failed me. It not only lives through drought and rain, warmth and coolness, it blooms all summer and fall. Check out the angel wing begonia. I place it in partial shade and water daily (as all container plants) and then watch it explode. My front door is partially blocked at this point in the season by these wonderful shiny, green leaves and red blossoms.

On a lark, I decided to try planting elephant ears this summer in a few areas of the yard. They must have loved the heat, because they really took off. They are 5 feet tall and the leaves are amazing. 

What veining!

Last, but not least, I thought I'd share the view out of my kitchen window. The passion flower vine is taking over! I chuckle every time I look out. Actually, I like the privacy it gives us, as we rarely close any curtains.

A big congratulations to Crystal and Anne over at Rue magazine for their online debut today! Pick up a glass of wine and enjoy!

Linking up with Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
 and 
  with Jessica, at A Few of My Favorite Things, for Favorite Things Friday.

Wrought iron

Wrought iron furniture and accessories have always attracted me. I am drawn to older pieces with character. Thought I'd share a few with you!

 

This lantern hangs on a corner building in Siena, Italy. At the opposite corner, there are three gorgeous, frescoed, groin ceilings from the late 1400's. I am preparing a post for next week on groin ceilings and will include them. 

I am not usually charmed by snakes (!), but they do add to this fixture. Love the grapevines. 

What a great door to one's bath! 

 

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The wrought iron scroll work against the brick is masterful and was created by the Belgian wrought iron craftsman, Prosper Schrijvers, in Brussels. How perfect with the blooming wisteria!

 

We found the next two items at antique shows. This rose wrought iron urn is one of a pair. 

 

 

This wrought iron stand holds whatever I pick from my garden!

 

Last, but not least, are my two elephant ear plants. They are a member of the Caladium family and look like they'll take over the whole garden soon! They are as tall as I am.

 

Thank you, Cindy, at My Romantic Home, for Show & Tell Friday.

Thank you, Jessica, at A Few of My Favorite Things, for Favorite Things Friday.