Our favorite garden was, predictably, the first one we visited. Spread out over just over 7 acres on a north-facing wooded hillside, it was a perfect blend of natural beauty and formal landscaping. The primary focus of the property was the owner's collection of Koi spread among several wonderful water gardens.

All the stones forming the pools were gathered from the hillside above the modest house. Spread among the trees and flowing water were several natural looking patios and even the obligatory treehouse. The garden was cool and soothing as his cat wandered among the underbrush and birds chattered overhead.

From there, we moved on and toured several gardens that were, frankly, a bit too pretentious and formal. With the exception of that first garden, all the other gardens seemed artificially implanted on the landscape rather than grown from it.

For now, we've been working on developing our modest back yard here in town. We've made some good progress during the recent stretch of fine weather. The yard is really beginning to take shape.

While it may not be the ideal 7+ acres, it's a good start and we're making the best of it.