I have a shady north-facing front flower bed which has mostly bulbs and perennials.  I purposely keep it low-maintenance because I prefer to hang out in the backyard which is much more sunny and private.

I have a large deck and a small fenced-in yard.  There is a little bit of grass for the cat to nibble but mostly it is an asphalt pad.  In the summer I do my best to create my own "sanctuary" by filling the space with container plants, patio furniture, solar lights and all the other garden decor.

It is south-facing with a bit of shade created by a large lilac bush and a beautiful big douglas fir (both outside my fence). 

I've included a "Past Summers" album to show how my backyard has progressed.  When we first moved in I had no fence.  I "created" one by putting up trellises to keep out the neighbourhood children.  Last summer we got a new deck and then a fence.  I was a happy girl!!

Every year I try something new and learn a lot.