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Three
years ago Paula and Jim Mixson traded plans for a second
trip to Maui for a new back yard. The yard is quite
unique in that it is a sensory garden created particularly
for Jim who is blind. |
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Working
with designer, B. Jane, the Mixson’s have a yard
that is filled with sounds, tastes, textures and smells.
This herb garden is one delight. |
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Sound
is present in many ways. The trickling waterfall flows
into this fish pond that attracts wildlife. Unseen,
but heard overhead, are two Music of the Spheres wind chimes,
which harmonize in the wind. |
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The
Mixson’s experimented with several materials
on their footpath. Although they started with a mulch pathway,
they converted it to decomposed granite which Jim preferred
underfoot. The pathway opened up a new world for Jim who,
because there were no sidewalks in the neighborhood, had
previously been limited to walking in the house. |
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The garden has an
Eastern, zen-like effect and is complimented by the smiling
Buddha and adorned elephant, Ganesha, who is the Hindu
Lord of Success. Jim can distinguish some light so the
beads on the elephant are
reflective
and set
off
with solar lights and rock spots. |
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Each
season brings its own color and now that the bee balm blooms
are diminishing, the purple oxalis add variety. |
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Paula
and Jim began work on the front yard in 2006 by adding
the flower filled bed on the right. |
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Here you’ll find a mix of penstemmon, Marie Pavie
roses, and a groundcover of horseherb leading to the
back yard. |
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All areas of the yard offer a place
to sit and meditate. So have a seat, relax, and listen
to the sound of the bamboo!! |
