The sight and sound of water in a garden is a refreshing surprise. Water splashing upon rocks can sound like a musical waterfall. The reflection from a still pond can mirror the surroundings, doubling its beauty. Any water feature can be a welcome oasis and a recreational focal point.

I just love frogs. And I think they love me too because there are lots of frogs in my garden. I refer to them as "The Prince's' of Shirley's Green Haven". They make me feel safe. I know as long as I see a frog in my garden then there are no other "nasty crawlies" around. I guess it's the seven water ponds that attract their attention. We had one pond built into our deck that is at least 3 feet tall. I have no idea how this little frog got up there but one morning I went outside and there he was. This one was "Prince John". I ran inside and got the camera while he waited there and smiled as I took his picture.

Then I strolled on through the garden and stopped to see the beautiful Stargazer Lilies near the other small pond and lo and behold, there was "Prince Michael"! Look closely at this little guy, he is on the blue star juniper. He looked up at me as if to say "Good day, Madam"! Of course I took his picture also. He was just finishing his breakfast of toasted bugs. He is such a cutie, he has a really yellow belly, but he isn't afraid of anyone.

Ponds in your garden are a great way to attract frogs. They love the sound of water. Just as the water trickling is soothing to us, I think it is to them. You can start with a simple tub of water or even a bucket that will take the splash without loosing water. Moving water is best because it deters mosquitoes, plus the sound of moving water is music to your ears. Today just about every garden center carries the right pond for you.

Ok, here is a picture of the tree I cut in the winter. (See my article in the Spring issue). I know it's not the best visual. I couldn't be happier that I did chop away in December. I was so surprised to see the leaves come out in the Spring and once again, in spite of my "trimming" it actually had flowers blooming this past Mother's Day. Now it is really filling out nicely and I am adding birdhouses as I planned. I don't think the picture does it justice, but trust me, cutting those limbs was the best thing I did. Otherwise I may have chopped down the whole tree. Now after the trim, it was "shocked" into growing better again.