my patio garden after a summer rain

When I finished washing my deck this morning, I was hit by a wave of nostalgia. The scent of wet wood took me straight back to my grandmother’s porch, where she’d let me help water her petunias and tomatoes. Now, as I look at my own patio garden, I wonder if my grandchildren will remember these moments, or if they’ll just see gardening as another chore. I’ve always stuck to the old ways—planting what thrives in our local soil, following the rhythms of the seasons. But lately, I see neighbors bringing in exotic plants, using smart irrigation systems, and even artificial turf. It makes me question: are we losing something precious, or just moving with the times? Here in the Midwest, our summers can be brutal—too much rain one week, a drought the next. My hydrangeas, battered by last night’s storm, look nothing like the glossy magazine photos. But there’s a raw beauty in their resilience. I can’t help but feel a little proud, even as I sweep up broken stems. Sometimes, the HOA sends out reminders about keeping patios tidy and plants contained. I understand the need for order, but isn’t a little wildness part of the charm? I’d love to hear how others balance personal expression with community rules. Do you stick to tradition, or embrace the new? #patiojoy #gardeningmemories #oldvsnew #Gardening