This week Rich (my hubby) and I are in Texas. The company he works for (XCOR) will be relocating here in the near future and we are here so Rich can line up Vendors for the manufacturing of the Lynx rocket. It gives me a great opportunity to get out of town, spend quality time with my hubby, and to see what other people are doing who are in an area of drought and tight water restrictions.

Midland has the same USDA climate zone as Tehachapi and is at about the 3000 foot elevation. There has been an ongoing drought, and the population is restricted to watering twice a week, and in the height of summer they were only allowed to water once a week. It has been interesting to drive around and see the same plant palette here that I use in Tehachapi. Lots of Deer Grass, Mexican Feather Grass, Chaste Tree, Germander and many other familiar plants.

The “We don’t dial 911” sign and the texas map and flag were staged in such a fun manner. Real Texas pride here!

I researched a few places I wanted to visit and among them was Alldredge Gardens, a destination garden shopping experience. Being January they were remodeling the Cafe, and still putting away the Christmas decor when I was there, but there were still some noteworthy things to see.

It is a great time of year to think about what additions you want to make to your garden. There is so much to choose from. Would your space benefit from some new furniture? or a fire pit?

From wall art to outdoor furniture, fire pits and pergolas, they had beautiful items to create your own back yard utopia.

This little garden gnome was resting contentedly by the pond, while remodeling was going on around him.

While the weather is cold, and you are forced to spend more time indoors, take some time to reflect on how you could enhance your private gardens and make your landscape a restful retreat to come home to after a long day. Share your ideas and plans in the comments. I would love to hear from you.