"Goodbye July: Summer Adventures at Blair Cottage"

Hello again, lovely readers!

I thought I’d take a moment to write another little blog post since it’s been a while, and I’ve been a bit quiet lately. I’m working on being more consistent with my blog content, but to be honest, life has been pretty uneventful on my end recently.

The past few months have thrown some challenges my way, and this last week has largely been spent either resting in bed or cozying up on the sofa. As a result, I haven’t had much to share when it comes to my usual home and gardening adventures.

Yesterday, I did find myself wandering through my garden though. I had gone out there to feed the birds. I had my phone with me and was able to capture the garden, and the plants that just continue to thrive. I love to see new growth in the garden and capturing the fleeting beauty of the blooms that have quietly flourished despite my absence. It brings a smile to my face. It feels like such a long time since I've been properly outside, in my garden. 

It felt bittersweet; while I was filled with a sense of wonder at my gardens resilience, I couldn’t shake the sadness of neglecting my beloved cottage garden.

Due to my back injury, this has kept me away from my green space for a while. As someone who has always found solace and joy in gardening and being surrounded by nature, it’s been tough to step back from something that brings me so much happiness. 

I find myself reflecting on my own little patch of paradise. Gardening has stolen my heart since the moment I settled into my home, but recent struggles with my tear and sciatica have put my plans on hold. Not just in the garden, but in my cottage also! 

This year was meant to be the dawn of a new chapter, in my first time home-owner journey. I wanted to begin to transform my beloved cottage. Painting and wallpapering are hobbies I genuinely enjoy doing. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about rolling up your sleeves and making a space your own. I’ve had the pleasure of redoing my mums home a few years back. The hallway, stairs, and living room; it felt rewarding to turn her house into a cozy haven that mirrors my style. Thankfully, she shares the same taste in home décor, making the selection of paints and wallpapers a breeze!

Tackling challenges, like applying tartan wallpaper on the chimney breast, was no small feat, but the end result was worth every effort. My mum’s home radiates warmth and elegance, perfectly encapsulating the essence of autumn. 

In fact, both our homes exude an autumnal charm, making them feel like sanctuaries during the 'Ber' months. There’s something about the cozy vibes of autumn that we both adore. 

Now, I should mention that my decor style could be considered old-fashioned by some. It's not minimalist or sleek; rather, it embraces a rustic warmth. My snug has been described by my grandparents as cluttered, but I absolutely love the way it feels—intimate and welcoming, much like an old-fashioned pub. I aimed for a dark and cozy atmosphere, accentuated by my collection of brass and copper ornaments, alongside beautiful artwork inspired by hunting scenes. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but thankfully, it’s my home!

At Blair Cottage, most of my decor consists of treasures sourced from antique shops, charity shops, and charming country fairs, with only a few pieces purchased new from retailers like Next, Tesco Home, and TK Maxx. 

When it comes to finding inspiration, I look no further than the beauty of nature itself. My sources range from magazines and blogs to gardens and even television dramas like Downton Abbey, Outlander and The Tudors.

You might wonder why I turn to gardens for inspiration. Well, nature boasts one of the most stunning color palettes imaginable. The effortless harmony of flowers and foliage creates a perfect balance of hues. Take the legendary Claude Monet, for instance; his garden at Giverny was a living masterpiece. The curated flowerbeds and his iconic water garden were not only a feast for the eyes but also the wellspring for his breathtaking impressionist paintings.

Nature unfailingly delivers inspiration, which is why I draw so much from the colors and textures found in the garden. Even the stunning hues of wildlife play a role in my creative journey. For example, the striking reds and browns of a red kite or the vibrant iridescence of a pheasant are reminders of nature’s beauty and complexity. Yes, in Blair Cottage I have alot of bird feathers used for décor. 

Whether I'm painting a wall or selecting decor, I find that the best ideas often bloom from the natural world around me.

As a lover of all things home and decor, I’m always on the lookout for inspiration. Recently, while flipping through my monthly issue of the' Country Living' magazine, I stumbled upon something that truly caught my eye—the 'Little Greene' Paint and Paper company.

Curiosity piqued, I promptly went online to explore their website, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of stunning! The rich, vibrant paints and luxurious wallpapers displayed really hooked me. It felt like stepping into a world of color and texture that I didn’t want to leave.

One of the best parts? The website offers a free brochure that can be delivered right to your doorstep! Who doesn’t love a little surprise in the mail? I couldn’t resist ordering one, eager to dive deeper into their exquisite collection.

As I browsed through their range of paints and wallpapers, I found myself completely enamored. The colors are simply divine, and I can vividly picture how they will transform my space. Whether it’s a refreshing new hue for the living room or a striking wallpaper for an accent wall, the possibilities are endless!

My thoughts are swirling with inspiration as I envision the different wallpapers adorning the walls of the bedrooms, the back living room, and even the bathroom. Each pattern tells a story and will hopefully add an extra layer of character to the cottage.

Now, I must admit, the prices can be a bit eye-watering—definitely an investment though! But I believe that every penny spent will be worth it for the warmth and beauty it will bring to my beloved retreat. Once I've replenished my savings, I can't wait to dive into this decorating adventure!

Now going back to the garden. It’s incredibly frustrating to watch the weeds proliferate — the ones I could do without, like chickweed and those prickly nuisances in the lawn — while I've been unable to enjoy the simple pleasures of my garden.

I used to love sitting out with my morning coffee, soaking in the sounds of nature — the birds feeding, the buzz of honeybees and hoverflies flitting about the well pond feature. Just thinking about those tranquil moments brings a bittersweet smile to my face.

And let’s not forget my swimming pool, which yearns for my attention as well! Scrubbing and putting it away for the season is on my to-do list, but at the moment, my garden calls to me in a way that feels both inviting and overwhelming.

Fortunately, there is light at the end of the tunnel! I’m nearing surgery and am hopeful that, post-recovery, I can return to my beloved outdoor sanctuary. The vision of nurturing my garden again, just before the colder months arrive, keeps me inspired.

Next year, I have big dreams. I’ve decided to dive into seed planting, and oh, what a thrill it is! My plant wish list for my cottage garden is an extensive one. For those of you who garden, you're likely aware of just how pricey established plants can be, even the humble 9cm pots! So, the prospect of growing them from seed feels like a delightful solution. 

I’ve been diligently taking notes from my favorite show, Gardeners’ World, and researching online for easy step-by-step methods to plant seeds. There’s something wonderfully satisfying about the idea of nurturing my plants from the very beginning, watching them grow and thrive.

With so much to look forward to, I can’t help but feel a renewed sense of hope and excitement for my garden. Here’s to brighter days ahead and the promise of vibrant blooms in my cottage garden!

While I won’t be lifting heavy planters just yet, I’m looking forward to getting my hands back in the soil. Tasks like deadheading faded flowers and pulling a few weeds are perfect for my recovery phase. It’s not just about the physical activity; it’s about the mental rejuvenation that comes with being surrounded by nature. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about watching the butterflies flit from flower to flower and hearing the gentle rustle of leaves, from my handsome Ash tree, blowing in the breeze.

The cottage garden has always been more than just a patch of dirt filled with plants for me; it’s a sanctuary. The sights, sounds, and even the scents create a peaceful oasis that helps nurture my mental health. I’ve missed that connection, and I can’t wait to be back among the blooms.

You don’t need to have an expansive garden or even any outdoor space at all to indulge in your inner garden enthusiast! As someone who finds immense joy in gardening, I can assure you that creativity knows no bounds when it comes to cultivating plants and creating beautiful green spaces.

Many people live in small apartments, high-rise flats, or homes with limited outdoor areas. But that doesn't mean you can’t create your own slice of paradise! With a little imagination, you can transform even the smallest balcony or window sill into a vibrant garden oasis. Whether you’re planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables, every little bit of greenery can bring life and joy into your space.

Nowadays, there are countless social media blogs, websites, and forums dedicated to gardening. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are bursting with inspiration, showcasing the journeys of fellow gardeners who have mastered the art of small-space gardening. And if you're looking for tips or motivation, shows like 'Gardeners' World' offer a wealth of knowledge and real-life experiences from passionate gardeners around the globe.

Remember, you don’t need a sprawling backyard to reap the therapeutic benefits of gardening. Even the simplest window box can provide you with a refreshing break from daily stresses. Plus, nurturing plants and welcoming wildlife to your home enhances not only your environment but also your well-being.

So, whether you have a tiny balcony, a cozy patio, or just a sunny window ledge, dive into the world of gardening. Embrace the green thumb within you and discover the joy of creating and nurturing your very own green sanctuary!

As I prepare to return to my gardening routine, I’m making a list of tasks that will ease me back into the rhythm of caring for my plants. I plan to choose a few favorite areas to focus on initially, celebrating the small victories as I gradually reengage with my little slice of paradise.

Thank you all for your support during this time. I look forward to sharing my journey of renewal in the garden and hope to inspire you to find little bits of joy in nature, no matter your circumstances.

Happy gardening, everyone. 

Until next time!

Warmly, Lindsay Blair

Saturday 26th July 2025