New Orleans Style

For the love of a garden

WEvery season here is unique.  But I have to say I have

my favorite.  What I love the most about New Orleans

is the Winter.

While the rest of y’all are freezing inside to stay warm, me and my friends are sitting in our private gardens full of aromatic flowers and ferns, as the sun cascades through the moss in the live oak trees.

 
I sit at the wrought iron table that belonged to my Aunt Millie. If I need inspiration for my blogging I ponder what the concrete sculpture of the Madonna must be thinking . Amongst flowering plants, sitting by the swimming pool under the shining sun, it is indeed a glorious day.

 
This is the secret New Orleans French Quarter… the walled courtyards and mystery gardens, that outsiders try to see as they wander through the French Quarter.

 
I don’t mind if they try to look in. Their envy helps me appreciate the life I have inherited. From the wrought-iron gates of the French Quarter to the aromas of our cajun food.. this is MY NEW ORLEANS. I cannot imagine living anywhere else.

 
Music from the street drifts in and out, catching my imagination and carrying my thoughts hither and yon.

 
A few years ago we put the smaller trees in containers. Now if it ever threatens to freeze, we can move the tiny oranges indoors. Or cover them. We have the same issue with the avocado tree—we can lose the crop if it freezes. Fortunately for us in New Orleans, this is rarely a problem.

 
This is our private heaven, that’s for sure.

 
While some favor pansies and viola, I admit I’m a deviant who favors red geraniums. I like the way their color adds a spark to the worn brick of the patio.

 
What a lush and savory environment for meals with friends and family.

 
There is nothing better than waking up in the morning, opening the doors of the veranda, and gazing down on my little world of luxury. It is far more than a courtyard– it is a way of life.

 
What a blessing it is to be the custodian of this delightful oasis. I shall live here forever!

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