We now have the gravel fully raked down in the courtyard, and I have placed my 20 euro cast iron and glass table out there, along with my 10 euro set of bamboo chairs. It may sound like a strange combination, but I think it looks great!

My mother and I sat out there in the sunshine yesterday evening, pricking out all my cosmos plants, whilst enjoying a G&T in the late sunshine. I have bought some really interesting colours this year (after reading Sarah Raven's book), and intend...