Compare My Former Backyard and My New Backyard

I’ve been asked recently how I feel about this backyard versus my former backyard. Though I love both, this one matches my lifestyle now and is much more appropriate. I find myself relaxing more in this cottage backyard space than in my former one. Thoughts?
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[@loriboyce942]

Sydney has done a lovely job changing the old backyard to a different style.😊 Both styles are beautiful!

[@kittensforadoption2609]

Yeah, great job turning a beautiful garden into a beautiful backyard.

[@interesante80]

I was going to comment the same. I loved Linda's style there and also love Sydney's as well.

[@cherylshook8740]

I like the straight out awning but the half moon awning would follow the shape of the half moon steps. Either would be great.

[@lindabutts477]

Your style at the other house was beautiful. The cottage on the hill , is also you. ❤

[@user-hx4hg8ee5r]

I like the half moon shape awning, also due to the shape of the steps. Hopefully, the awning can cover most of the surface area before the first step for some protection due to bad weather and high enough to open up a umbrella before entering into the bad weather.

[@lindylou3519]

I feel the other house “the fairytale house” still fits Linda best. It’s so much more classy & romantic. But, I also understand how sometimes it’s time for a change.

[@gingercobl5919]

Still waiting for you and Sydney to give each other those tour's of your updated gardens. Y'all promised when you announced she had bought the fairytale house. You've both done amazing jobs on your new gardens. Can't we all just play nice 😂

[@gjmw7982]

I love what Sydney and Tommy have done with your old house. Just like you have made this house wonderful for you.

[@kerryclare3456]

I am 71 years old, and I really understand how the cottage yard is more relaxing, and available to be enjoyed for you and your man. Thanks for sharing and being inspiring! Safe travels to Scotland. ❤

[@CarolynRedpath]

I personally love your new garden! It’s so charming, relaxing and homey! I also love Sydney’s transition and her style! Great things for both of you♥️♥️

[@melissadavis3814]

Does Sydney have a YT channel ? Do you mind sharing it? Thank you!

[@judyrodriguez8550]

Her name is Sydney Dorman and she was neighbors with Linda when Linda lived at her previous home. Sydney and her husband, Tommy bought Linda’s old home.

[@RaymondWilliams-od6ib]

@@melissadavis3814 The name of her channel is simply Sydney Dorman.

[@debbienolan611]

@@melissadavis3814yes it’s under Sydney Dorman.

[@charlottesimms4427]

Everyone has their own garden aesthetic. I think each garden very reflective of each person’s personality. Both take hard work and dedication! Bravo to both Sydney and Linda!💗💗💗

[@DappledShade]

I especially love the days you focus on your backyard. It’s truly an outdoor room. Stylish but relaxed, full of texture, warmth, and interest, allows for joyful and meditative puttering yet not overwhelming. Am so enjoying your process as you develop it. And many thanks to Stewart for so expertly filming it for us! Safe and happy travels to beautiful Scotland.

[@susanelizabeth5841]

My husband and I vote for a straight awning over the back yard. We had a half moon design one time, and it did not block as much rain or sun as a straight across design. We are not voting for the garage window awning. Hoping time will eventually add some height along that wall where Miss Figgy lives. Much prefer this home and gardens for this time in your life. Both are beautiful and exquisitely planned and maintained by you, but we admire you for making positive changes for this season. It’s also just fun to do something new! ❤

[@sandychristiansen1749]

Like your new backyard but your old backyard still speaks to me so much. I rewatch a lot of your older videos just to relive that beauty.

[@tamerabates928]

I loved your old backyard. Timeless old world look. I love your new backyard too! A reflection on how we develop as gardeners to a space that works for us as we mature. Relaxed and filled with things we use easily 😁🌻☕️

[@janfarrar1315]

Linda a rounded awning would mimic the steps that lead up to that door. Then a straight awning over the garage window in the same color or pattern (stripes) would tie them together! How fun😊

[@karenlehn2351]

I had also suggested a curved black an white striped awning,as the back steps were being constructed. Like minds I guess🤣

[@lisasantoro4724]

what a great idea and compromise! I like it!

[@suepercy8390]

The main thing is how much you enjoy using it and how often you are using it rather than just gardening. Although when an old video pops up, your old backyard still takes my breath away. Maturity can’t be rushed. ❤The boxwoods are growing fast and they are a key element. I’d still like to see something green climbing on the fences to make up for the lack of green lawn. You even had Ivy in the old house

[@pamelawolfson1423]

Love the idea of a half dome awning. Picks the shape of the stairs out.

[@donnahazlett7305]

This was a fun video to watch. I love how appreciative you are of everything. So gracious.🙂🌻

[@tammyjones163]

I like them both but love the cozyness of a smaller yard. 😊

[@fredbear72ify]

To inherit a garden like the old one I wouldn't have been able to change much it was so beautifully established. Having said that I love what you have done with the new place garden it really is a credit to your talent as a gardener and it really does look more relaxing. X

[@ileneshulan1849]

Thanks for the photos of the old house Stewart. That house front and back was magical!

[@doloreslegrand2710]

I do miss your fairytale garden, front and back. Of course when I found your vlogs I was so taken with and encouraged by them. I know this is easier but we all wax nostalgia sometimes.❤

[@marinaharding6117]

Welcome when you come to Scotland when you get here , you will find it a lot cooler here so be prepared , also possible rain, but enjoy yourself .I am English but have lived in Scotland 12 years , and enjoy my gardening very much .

[@bethgaither1214]

I will say again, your backyard is a work of art!!! I'm voting for the dome shaped canvas as it will mimic your beautiful steps leading out into your backyard. 😊

[@TinoVG]

Linda your garden at your previous home was simply beautiful and romantic and was the reason why I started following you years ago,... but the gardens you have designed in such a short time in your new home are simply fabulous and are my favorit... I love the colors of both the purple/pink tones in your front garden and the red warm tones in your backyard and I especially love that ajuga, it is the plant of the year for me and I am so grateful that I got to know this lush ground cover thx through your channel! 💜🌿❤ Ty from Belgium

[@diannemacklin4712]

I still watch some of your videos of your previous garden just because I loved it so much, however, it’s certainly exciting to see your current garden taking shape in perhaps a more modern style which is really lovely. Thank you for keeping us interested - in your garden and our own. ❤

[@Mygardenspace]

Linda I loved your beautiful backyard at the other house but wow seeing your transformation of your new backyard it’s cray how great it looks!!! I love your mix of brick stone and gravel! Both backyards have had your professional design.

[@shirlrebert4469]

One that comes out straight and yes, a second one on the other door

[@rachelmontoya2314]

You Brag all you want because your yard is beautiful I love it❤😊

[@maryfeeney4218]

Linda has the Midas touch no matter where she is.

[@susanmurray2529]

Linda has extensive drip irrigation. BIG part of successful garden.

[@Kacey90]

I just love both of your gardens. I had taken a break from watching KZbin not long after you started planting at this house. It’s been wonderful to see the way your style has evolved or morphed into something somewhat more refined and better suited to this chapter of your gardening life. It’s just really cool to witness. I hope this gives you more freedom to travel or to fill your time with passions other than gardening, if you so please. You are cultivating such a fun, desirable, but still realistic and achievable lifestyle. It’s produced and shot well and still seems as though it’s getting more personal and real over time, which I appreciate. It’s less scripted and warmer than when I found you on the news, to the fairytale for years, to now seeing this era. It’s been great and hopefully you are still enjoying the content creation. 🖤💚

[@Kacey90]

I am just now seeing the last Wednesday walkabout from FT and wow, it makes me love your story so much more.

[@Trishthegardener]

I love your new garden but I must say I’m a little partial to the old one. I think it is b/c the old one had more trees. But I totally get downsizing a bit!! 🌿🌷🌺

[@dulceportillo4061]

Half dome is going to look great with the style of the house, but wherever you choose I’m sure is going to look great. Have a great vacation.

[@nancyvance2772]

I adored your old garden and never thought I would come to love your new one. But I have... just as much. You are a garden design genius, and your taste is impeccable. Certainly Sydney can do anything she wants, it's her yard (it isn't close to being a garden), and so on and so forth. But I will never in a million years understand how she could rip out the potager and reduce the property to white and purple. It is lovely but a lovely ordinary yard. It was one-of-a-kind when you gardened there. I know I'm going to hell for saying this, but you asked for our thoughts. Mea culpa.

[@Holly_at_gypsyhollergardens]

👏🏼 well said ! ( And no hell, God agrees with you😉)

[@annclark8573]

As with most everything you do, the back looks perfectly beautiful and comfortable. I've always loved your former place, but they're so different that they can't really be compared. I'm 77 and just with help redid my backyard and I'm loving it. I guess a gardener never quits if he/she doesn't have to and it's a healthy habit. Thanks for just being available, Linda.

[@susanharper7113]

Dome will echo the curve of the steps and hide the bracketing. You did a lovely job on your gardens. Love your channel.

[@beckyisabell4324]

You left your home in good hands different styles but being cared for nonetheless.

[@rosemariemello6675]

Your former backyard was gorgeous and seemed so quaint. You did an amazing job to this one too.

[@nancysinthegarden3994]

Yes, I also freshen up the geranium blooms. They're so beautiful when blooming and the dead petals detract so much!

[@kathleen9728]

Your previous backyard was MAGICAL. I am equally understanding and excited for Sydney is doing as I am sad to see the end of it. That is what gardening is all about…joy and grief equally.

[@mariem.8205]

I think if you want the awnings to match, then I think ones that come straight out would be great, however, a half dome over the door matches the aesthetics of the steps. 😊

[@dorenecatella3328]

The Old Backyard was beautiful, Sydney and Tommy have made it a lot more simple with raised beds, grass for the dogs to frolic on and just made it their own and it is different but still beautiful. Your New back yard is so beautiful and relaxing ❤

[@sue3424]

Linda, Linda, Linda. I truly understand how you feel about your new backyard versus your old backyard. I have purchased those large homes with large backyards, and I never had the time to enjoy them. I downsized in 2020 to a townhouse with a small backyard and I love it. Feeling the morning breeze while drinking a tall glass of lemonade on my patio is so peaceful. It's my STAYCATION. Continue to enjoy your space.

[@DineeGal]

I’m voting for the dome awning ~ which would compliment the architect and add a softness.

[@RosemaryOltarzewski]

Yes it gets my vote too. 😊

[@itsinyournature]

Me too.

[@odemonet]

I love the half dome! I absolutely adore both of the fairytale house when you were there and the cottage. When I first saw the cottage before your gardens and the red painted front porch I thought you lost your mind 😉but boy was I wrong. I adore the cottage, inside and out. I was crushed when Sydney tore out the potager, then I realized it was her house lol. She has created a good yard for her family. I just love your style and Linda Vater look. So for me now the cottage on the hill is perfection.

[@jojo-tl5ei]

Wishing you a wonderful trip Linda. You are looking healthy and strong, have a great time!! 💖💖

[@jefftaplin6544]

Linda, Ive been watching your vids for about 4 1/2 years now and always enjoy them so much. Thanks from SW Missouri!

[@KarenTyree]

I agree Linda, I think the straight out awning over your back door would give more coverage from the rain. I think the canvas coverage would look beautiful in a grey and white classic stripe. ☺️

[@elizabethnobles512]

Dome awnings are charming but you’ve already been there. I think the strait style would suit your cottage and I think you might enjoy it more, including the coverage. and , Yes- I’d add the second one. Thank you for sharing with us. Look forward to your videos-always delightful!

[@lianeabeyta4515]

This actually popped up in 4 minutes as I was taking a nostalgic look back of your Christmas morning room 3 years ago, with your lovely pearls... and Christmas 2 years ago when you were waiting for Johnny to get home from the airport. These are my favorite ones. This house was my dream, and I loved every single moment and room and vignette. I know its crazy, but I still go back over and over ,whenever the mood hits me ,for the old Linda Vater feel. That time felt like a hug , with every video. I am sure many viewers will give me grief... I'm fine with that. Its how I feel. How odd that this video should mention the fairy tale house. That Johnny drove by and had a little heart tug. I never lived there, but am still so attached to it. I think the house had a soul. The end shot of the old half dome metal weathered patina awning almost made me cry! I think that style would give this new garden and old garden feel.

[@LindaVater]

I understand completely my friend

[@Holly_at_gypsyhollergardens]

I watch the old ones too...(Alot 😊) Just something about them and the way it was 💙 I teared up reading your comment !

[@lianeabeyta4515]

@@Holly_at_gypsyhollergardens kindred spirits

[@LFetterman7903]

Funny, I’m currently watching a program called Kindred Spirits! About the paranormal and hauntings. We all leave our marks on the homes we love…

[@phyllisking3533]

Thanks for sharing pictures of Fairy Tale House. Beautiful and different from Cottage. I appreciate more relaxing time since I am 83 now.

[@user-fx5sq1zc6l]

Your Cottage Garden is beautiful.. I like what you’ve done💕 Sydney is doing a great job with her style, as well.. 🥰

[@barbb.9489]

The straight awnings would look great at both windows/ doors. It would be smart and modern. If you could get matching stripe gray fabric to Your Vater gray, that would look nice. Another option would be to pull out a cushion color for the awning and cord/ pipe it with another cushion color. ❤😂❤

[@michellelea8511]

I adored your old garden but I too am building a new garden so watching and learning has been inspirational for me so I appreciate the new garden as well. Safe travels!

[@caroleosborne3379]

You can celebrate two wonderful gardens! When i daw the pics of your former back yard, the first thing that came to mind was how much WORK it involved! I love your new back yard and love how much you are enjoying it!!! I'd go with the straight out awning. Have a fabulous trip to Scotland! Carole in Tennessee ❤

[@laurashirilla6850]

Your yard looks so amazing, Linda! I vote for matching straight across awnings. You've got enough circular motion going on with your cool steps. Enjoy each new day!

[@user-pp6xw9mm5z]

Linda, everything about you is beautiful! Your new home is absolutely fabulous! You've done more in 18 months than anyone ever could have expected, and every detail is superb! Have a wonderful time in Scotland! I had a pen pal for years back in the '60s who lived in Ayr, Scotland, and my dream is to go there one day! 💚 Linda

[@joedoe5868]

I vote for straight awning with support bars on both house and garage. You have a lot of curves in your yard (my favorite type of line) so some contrast would be a nice way to stop the eye at a focal point. Your yards are looking beautiful. unbelievable how much your plantings in the back have grown in. So pretty!

[@lpenni8673]

So beautiful! Love your new backyard, and glad you have more free time to enjoy it too! How wonderful for you❤

[@kayeharkness4013]

I too have a large garden in my back….so much so it can be a bit overwhelming, but I still love it.

[@Cdotown3664hello]

Your gardens are so lovely and so thoughtful! Your expertise guided me as we planted our new gardens (and continue to plan next phases) here in The City, and I am grateful! I watched a video of yours that shared that flowering perennials, evergreens, and drought-tolerant ground cover can be used to provide long-term structure and lead to less maintenance overall, and so I added as many of those as finances would allow. Otherwise, I seeded or purchased discount annuals to fill in - which if all goes to plan, I will decrease planting those over time. We are so happy with our resulting gardens! I think the reason your garden lifestyle is so inspiring is because you curate instead of overdoing, you haven't selected an overly large piece of land, and you have garden rooms, so that anyone can relate, no matter the size of their garden area. Thank you again!

[@beverlyasleson3321]

I like the straight vs the curve awning for your back porch. And your backyard is so beautiful you are great at all your designs. Have fun in Scotland excited to see the videos.

[@SunshineShellz]

Yes do the garage window along with your back door. ❤ straight out would be nice.

[@CeeTee380]

Choking on a wind propelled bug is probably the most relatable things I’ve ever heard! Coming from maritime PNW, thank you for sharing your beautiful windy garden

[@denisehaley8608]

What about a roll out awning to cover the large window and the door together. Rollie out when you want it or keep it out all the time? Just a suggestion. I live in Fishers, IN. I see them in some areas. You may want an awning all the time and just more stationary tho. 🙂♥️. I love your whole set up. Whatever you decide will be beautiful. Keep doing you Linda ! It is all fabulous.

[@dawnwalker152]

I love both styles....both beautiful, comfortable and welcoming. Thank you for bringing us back for a visit of your old back yard.

[@tpdoolin8445]

If I had to choose, I'd vote for the straight awning. I think it would tie in better with the flat expanse of your back siding. I'd probably add one over the garage entry too.

[@copperpenny0209]

I'm leaning towards the dome because it'll mirror the shape of your lovely stairs. Sydney has transformed the backyard into a lovely space suited for her needs. Both the former design and current design are beautiful. I'm with you on a smaller backyard because I can spend hours and hours taking care of mine. I was just thinking about that the other day and now I'm considering moving because of it.

[@janetbirkmann669]

Oh good heavens. Saying "I love my new steps" is not bragging (as you mentioned that a viewer commented)! Please don't take such a remark to heart! Enjoying the results of all your plans - creating your own home! - is natural! So ... Enjoy!

[@patriciamoslow7040]

You will love Scotland went in 2019 , the royal mile is amazing enjoy , the scones and little tea shops , and yes the gardens . Enjoy

[@profesoraky]

I think you would benefit more from the one that goes straight out with the metal bars. Also, another one over the door to the garage would be beneficial during the rain, while carrying the style to another area in the backyard.

[@marjoriegreen2]

You created a beautiful garden at the old house and gave it great bones and structure for then, now and the future, you should be proud of that. But as you said that size of garden takes so much more time and energy that at this point in life you would rather spread to additional interests. I love your new garden, it is just the right size and just the right look and gave you a clean slate to create and bring us a long. Love, love your back yard. Thank you, Linda.

[@bradenlocke8911]

Half-dome awning to echo the curve of the steps Linda! 😃

[@marciamellow1211]

Because of the stairs I would do half roùnd..then the other one on the window..same color cloth ..red..muted.❤ The details are what brings it all together...something I am known for...love everything happening...

[@judymiddleswart9350]

I do miss your old backyard but you fulfilled your vision now looks wonderful an fun to work in!!!

[@deeshires8721]

You old garden gave me joy, loved strolling through it. I cringed when your boxwood knotted garden was ripped out. I can understand why you love this new one though

[@beckid5107]

I have enjoyed both of your gardens. I agree, as a gardener in my sixties, that in this season of my life, the garden is about my joy in enjoying my time in the space. Your design talent and aesthetic are spot on!👍💕

[@rebeccafrancis8227]

I chose the awning that comes out straight. Your garden is really coming along!! Have fun in Scotland!!!

[@user-hx4hg8ee5r]

If you're concerned about having a matching awning on the garage, I think an awning over the entrance garage door from the backyard makes more sense for the same reason as your backdoor awning. HAPPENING GARDENING! Enjoy your trip to Scotland!

[@chrisogrady4956]

Yes, I deadhead my geraniums the same way you do. Makes them look so much tidier and more beautiful. Your former home and gardens were gorgeous. So are your new home and gardens! I like the romance of the half-dome awning. Also, the roundness of the dome will coordinate beautifully with the roundness of your steps.

[@AlexandraKozub-tp7fe]

Wow I didn’t realize how huge your other home was. Good you can relax now

[@kristymarie6065]

2 straight would look very cute

[@tracydenson3397]

A dome over the back door would be beautiful

[@donnabrock2938]

I think a dommed awning would better echo the curve of the stairs.

[@trisha4829]

❤I love your style! Thanks for sharing.

[@mt2766]

Hey Linda, that’s a great summer “lite gardening” outfit! You help me up my gardening game. I vote for rectangular awnings for the backyard, because it will balance out the wreaths and other organic garden art you may want as future decor.

[@jenniferkessener1111]

I prefer the half dome canopy over the door. Seemsmore in keeping with the cottage style. Have a great trip!

[@noreenmorrison9662]

I'll be short. Your new yard is my favorite. Loved the other but to me this one is magnificent!!! Your outdoor living room is my favorite part. I think you are a design and gardening genius and I look forward everyday to being with you (and Stewart of course!) Have a wonderful trip to Scotland and by the way, go with the straight out awning!

[@beverlyhill6783]

Lovely Linda - Thank You for sharing - Have a great time on your trip

[@meganblasco2]

🎉relaxed gardening is the best!

[@phawkins3550]

It is so amazing how much you have accomplished in that time frame! I simply adore the garden front and especially the back. You have truly inspired me❤

[@DonaldStephan]

Linda, Happy to see your storage area between the houses. I'd only note that it's probably not a good idea to hang those thrifted candle holders from the lighting cord draped along the fence, especially with the weight of the candles or pumpkins.

[@marilynseay2633]

Your backyard transformation is both lovely and amazing. Although your former yard required more work, the vibes were very relaxing and peaceful. However, I understand your need to downsize. You have a lovely backyard garden.

[@terriefirmin3190]

Definitely the straight out awning ❤

[@128titanic9]

Hi, Linda. Thank you for your video. Best wishes and Happy the week. ❤

[@jodiscozycottage9671]

It is looking fabulous .

[@lisacanaday7887]

The dome awning for sure! Its round curves echo the stairs, the topiary spheres and overall aesthetic of your cottage. Even your front door window is a circle! ❤️ Have a wonderful time in beautiful Scotland. It is my favorite destination.

[@pomme800]

A straight out awning (striped!) would be very pretty, window too! Have fun in Scotland and def bring a raincoat and woolies :)))

[@Paula-tw5bm]

A straight-out awning over your door would look very nice. One over the window would be nice, too.

[@donnajoy6951]

I prefer the new garden, more relatable. I do miss the Snowball Viburnum and the Weigela.

[@joannsuddreth8862]

Love your progress on the cottage on the Hill. Have a wonderful time on your vacation!

[@joywhitley3141]

Straight awnings will be awesome!❤

[@marthajones7089]

I love the half dome in black and white stripes. That would look wonderful with the gray on the house.