I can’t believe it’s been a year since my garden was last open. Last January I had almost 700 people through my little garden over the same two-day weekend. This year it’s going to be sweltering but there’s plenty of shade now that the trees have formed a cool canopy.

Even though I am biased, I think this year, it looks the best it’s ever looked. I have spent many weekends getting it ready so it is picture perfect and even today, I was down at the nursery getting a few little odds and ends to fill in the gaps. I have to keep reminding myself that a garden is never finished. It’s always a work in progress. But the best gardens are always ‘loved’ and mine certainly is that. Despite all the hard work, it is so satisfying when visitors make the effort to come along despite the weather and take a stroll through my little oasis.

I’m lucky to have some great friends who generously help me each year tending the door, which is actually my garage. I will have the fans cranked up this year and plenty of ice-cold water for my helpers. Many thanks to Sue 1, Sue 2, Addy, Lynn, Pam, Kim and Theresa. I couldn’t do it without you.

I will have copies of my book ‘Urban Sanctuary – designing small gardens’ for sale at a discounted price of $55. If you would like a signed copy, I am happy to oblige. Payment can be cash or eftpos. This is a great book if you want some valuable information on how to design a small garden and it has plenty of local information too. My own garden has a dedicated chapter and there are 13 other gorgeous gardens all in the Perth area. So I hope to see you all on Saturday 11th January or Sunday 12th January 2014 at 12A Wincanton Road in Karrinyup. Bring your questions and a bottle of water!