"La Joie De Vivre!"

I have always tried to live my life with no regrets. But, all too many times we forget to enjoy life. We get so caught up in the fast lane that we lose ourselves in the drama and chaos of life. So, I started thinking about the idea and the phrase hit to me, "La Joie De Vivre."  La Joie De Vivre translates to the joy of living. The joy of living can be anything that brings you inner peace. It can be walking through a garden, reading a great novel, or simply cooking. When it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders it's time to reevaluate what's important and the risks. Sometimes you have to look at your life and start eliminating all that brings about stress. Nowadays, it seems that life moves so fast that we forget to simply enjoy the simple pleasures like spending time with family and friends, laughing, or relaxing. Some would ask what or how can they bring peace into their lives. Well, the first advice would be to breathe. By engaging in breathing exercises or participating with a yoga class it can help you to relax and bring your stress levels down. But, you have to be willing to let go of your control. I'm not saying you should give up complete control, but enough to allow yourself to relax. Another great way to relax is to plan a day at the spa and indulge yourself with a massage or facial. There is nothing wrong with being cater to and being treated like a king or queen. Sometimes we just need to be free and get away. If this is the case, plan a vacation to your favorite destination.  If you are not into the crowded scene or college hot spots, I would advise you to avoid these types of places. Do your research first. Find out if this is the peak of the season or if it's during spring break. This will save you money and stress. With today's economy this may be difficult to do for some people. If this is the case engage in a hobby you love and enjoy (i.e. gardening or pottery). The idea is to take your mind away from the stress. So if that's doing the things you love, then do it without hesitation.

Gardens and landscaping is a great way to help you relax and also bring curb appeal to your home. There are many great options in the market if you want to enhance the look of your yard.  Once you have settled on a budget and style of garden contact a local landscape architect or contractor to discuss a design. If you are working with a small budget you can always visit your local home improvement store or nursery as an option. Designing your yard on your own can be a difficult task. It is always wiser to use a professional with experience. Check their references with their clients and visit previous projects completed. This should give you a feel of how their work. You should then start with a layout design. Make a list of  ideas and types of landscaping you want to use in your yard. Your landscape architect/contractor will determine if it is feasible with your yard. Hopefully your yard should turn out with a great design in the end.

Here are some great examples of gardens and landscaping. Picture yourself relaxing as your cares melt away. So Take time to relax and smell the garden.

Garden design by Seattle architect Paul Moon Design

Walkways are a great way to enhance your garden. You can add a fountain or bird bath as a focal point into your garden. You can also add a trellis or arbor to bring interest into the yard as well.

Garden design by San Francisco landscape architect Richard Kramer

Mixing surfaces and hardscape can also bring interest into your yard.

Garden design by San Francisco general contractor Frank & Grossman Landscape Contractors, Inc.

To create a focal point you can use a statue or yard art surrounded by landscaping. This will definitely bring visual appeal to your space.

If you like spending your time reading or relaxing you can use a hammock as a seating option. 

There a variety of options when it comes to hammocks. You can select an option that is modern or traditional.

Hammocks can be tied to a tree or porch. Where ever you are most comfortable reading or relaxing will be your most ideal spot to hang your hammock. You may also want to consider a spot with lots of shade.

Landscape design by Portland landscape architect Samuel H. Williamson Associates

You may want to start with planting annuals instead of perennials because they are easy to grow and widely available. Shading and soil types will dictate the placement and types of planting to be used. 

Landscape design by Boston landscape architect Woodburn & Company Landscape Architecture, LLC

Designing your yard should be based on more than just aesthetics. You should take into consideration lighting requirements, hardiness, soil and moisture levels, and on which plants that work well together.

Landscape design by San Francisco landscape architect Ami Saunders, MLA

A garden or koi pond would be a great feature to any yard. However, they can also be costly and require lots of maintenance. However, there are cheaper options with less maintenance required. You can use a small water feature or water fountain as a substitute option. If you have a water feature be sure to conserve your water or find a way to reuse it in your garden.

Bruss Landscaping, Inc.

Landscape design by San Francisco general contractor Spring Creek Watergardens and Landscape

A garden pond, when created correctly, can provide a touch of elegance that can last for generations. There are many features you can add to the pond like a fountain, pond lights, pond plants, and koi fish.

Landscape design by Vancouver landscape architect Thomas Kyle

You should select the best plants to display and that brings you enjoyment. Gardens is an opportunity to bring in lots of color and texture. So don't be afraid to explore different options.

Landscape design by San Francisco landscape architect Ron Herman Landscape Architect

Pergolas can really bring life to your yard. It can also be used as a focal point or used as shading along a pathway/walkway. You can use a substitute material for the structure if you live in a region with extreme weather conditions (i.e. fiberglass, vinyl).