Cherubs In The Garden

We've been more intentional about what we plant and where - like the new zinnia bed under the kitchen window.

We've focused a little more on the area surrounding the pond, creating a colorful haven for our fish.

And we've really enjoyed adding artful treasures to the beds, to create more interest.

Like our most recent additions, including:

•  a few more galvanized tubs
• a yard sale milkcan planter 
• a darling standing birdcage, that now holds a pot filled with bright pink blooms
• and an old stool we turned into a trellis

All of which got me thinking, that if I could put those items in my yard, then virtually anything I have in the house could potentially be a garden ornament.

And that's when I thought about the twins.

You see years ago, my mother in law gifted us this statue after my second was born. It's two babies, giggling and telling secrets.

I displayed it for a few years until we moved, but then they got packed up in box and didn't emerge for years - after all the renovations were finally done.

That's when the girls told me they were creepy (sorry grandma!) and asked me to put them away. So I did. 

Then a few weeks ago, we were cleaning out the basement and my daughter asked, "What's the story with the creepy babies?"

Apparently, she didn't remember them and honestly I'd forgotten all about them, as well.

However, once I saw them - and felt them, they were heavy - I couldn't picture them anywhere else but in the garden. I mean, cherubs in a cottage style garden? Come on.

Of course, I wasn't sure about their finish, it was a bit chipped and beaten up.

I tried to find out all I could about them, but nowhere did it say that the finish would stand up to the elements. And while I'm good with a weathered patina, I didn't want them destroyed.

Creepy or not, they were a gift and a sentimental one at that. Plus, I thought they'd look sweet with a concrete finish.

We Used This Spray Paint

That's where this spray paint came into play. I find that spray paint is best when it comes to outdoor makeovers.

To make sure it would stick to their slightly shiny surface, my husband cleaned them with alcohol.

Two quick coats with a stone texture, made for outdoor use, gave them a cement look that I know will age really well.


They look a little more gray in this photo than they are in real life.

They're actually a softer stone hue and the longer those two hang out among the flowers, exposed to the elements, the better their new skin will look.


With the sun shining on them, surrounded by all those golden blooms they already look like they've been there a while.


A little warmer.

And a lot more fitting scheming outside than in.

Although my girls still think they're creepy.

Sorry grandma!

😉

How about you? Do you think they're cute or creepy? And would you put them in your garden?

Happy Gardening, Friends!