As the Arkansas summer temperatures climb into the high 90s this summer, Evelyn and John Rankin can calmly climb into their pool in the couples well-maintained yard and garden located in the Centennial Valley subdivision.
Floating in the pool is actually somewhat of a thinking place for Evelyn. “When I’m floating in the pool, I’ll look around and think, this color could go here or there,” she said with a reflective smile.
The Rankins have lived in their spacious home in Centennial Valley, located in Conway, for about three and half years. Evelyn explained that when she and John bought the house, the backyard was solid grass. It’s hard to imagine a solid green landscape when you look out onto the yard and see a rainbow-worth of color.
The yard and garden area also feature an elaborate deck, fire pit, hot tub, pool house and two pergolas. Crystal clear water bubbles up through a fountain in the pool and it doesn’t take long to feel relaxed upon entering the space. Although the yard and natural surroundings provide an immediate calming effect, Evelyn took it up a notch. Before giving me the tour, she scurried off and shortly after her departure; light music could be heard around the yard. According to Evelyn, the music “sets the ambiance.”
Before the music and bubbling fountain were heard, the surrounding Centennial Valley golf course provides an immediate engaging atmosphere. The 10th tee box seems to be part of the backyard as well, only adding to the beauty that Evelyn and John have created. Large, natural stones surround one side of the pool and provide one of the yards many breathtaking views. “We spend a lot of time out here,” she said.
Evelyn and John have done all of the work themselves and spend anywhere from 15 to 20 hours a week on maintenance. Hard work was instilled in Evelyn during her childhood as she grew up on a farm in Texas. Her interest in gardening came from her mother. “My mother loves to garden,” she explained when asked where her motivation for planting and pruning come from.
She gives credit to John for being the creative one, who is always willing to try new things in the yard. John is also the planner. When asked what advice he would give to other gardeners, he said, “Good design is of utmost importance and the first step.” One of Evelyn’s gardening tips was, “do as many perennials as possible.” Her other tip was to seek advice from experts.
Besides being a relaxing spot for the Rankin family, the yard has also provided an excellent place to entertain. For the past couple of years, the couple has hosted CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Friends parties and the Centennial Valley Neighborhood to name a few. Evelyn said usually 60 to 70 people attend the special CASA Friends event. When the party takes place in the spring, her azaleas provide the perfect party decoration. Besides the CASA Friends and other specific parties, the garden provides a venue to relax with close friends and family.
An inviting hammock, as well as a variety of comfortable deck furniture, is placed throughout the garden. It is easy to picture a gathering of friends and family lounging by the pool, enjoying grilled food from the barbecue.
This year the Rankins added a pool house, where the golf cart is stored and a convenient shower and bathroom serve nearby swimmers. John plays golf and Evelyn enjoys the sport as well. She also likes water and relaxing in her garden.
Also in May of this year, the Rankin’s garden was featured in the Garden Walk Tour. The tour is hosted by the Faulkner County Master Gardeners organization. Seven gardens were selected and given themes based on style and decoration. Evelyn and John’s theme was poolside oasis. After a brief visit to their home, the title was well deserved and visions associated with oasis, complement their garden. In the tour pamphlet, the writer said, “violas, azaleas, irises, gardenia, cannas, and Echinacea provide color.” The landscape features a variety of colors, without being overwhelming. John gives credit to his hard working wife for the bountiful garden, “It’s mostly Evelyn, she’s out there everyday,” he said with a supportive tone.
After visiting and touring the outside area, it’s easy to see that the garden is a product of hard work and design, no matter who is floating or who is fertilizing.