There are some structures that demand attention, with their architectural dignity and quiet elegance. Such a house is 311 E. Kilpatrick in Mineola, formerly a bed and breakfast, now a stately home.

Ken and Wendy Kirk fell in love with the traditional look of the property from the first moment of viewing it in 2019. They moved from their ranch in northwest Fort Worth and found Mineola a perfect fit, with its friendly welcome and laid back attitude. She loves substitute teaching for MISD.

They began their landscaping effort with lots of weeding, then, over a long weekend, they and family members tilled the beds and amended the already good soil with peat moss and nutrients. Only then were they ready to plant.

Ken was the photographer for J. Berry Nursery, so the Kirks asked for their advice before buying and found many of their choices there. Chinese fringe flower shrubs and azaleas were among the first things added.

Due to the extreme cold of February 2021, they lost many of the plants and were also dismayed to discover that the beautiful ceramic fountain had been damaged. Although it was severely cracked, Ken painstakingly restored it to its former glory, and today it’s still a focal point.

With everything replaced, they added a new red Japanese maple and 180 daffodil and tulip bulbs for a dramatic spring show. Though the beds hold many varieties of perennial flowers, the Kirks love the cheery look of vincas, so they slip them in everywhere for color all season long. Tea roses in pink or red are also favorites.

Their next project will be installing a serenity garden in back. Plans are in place for lots of colorful flowerbeds, a birdbath, bird feeders, wind chimes and a huge concrete bench for peace and repose.

Ken mows with some help from grandson Eli, edges, trims and fertilizes, while Wendy chooses new blooms, tends to the beds and weeds. She says it’s a creative outlet, and helps her relax and ease stress. Hours can pass unnoticed.

Wendy advises beginner gardeners to go slow, to do some research and to take their time. She wears a t shirt that reads “All I need is this plant...and that other plant...and these plants over here...and....” Before you know it, you’re hooked.

Fannie Marchman Garden Club of Mineola presents the Kirk home as the August Yard of the Month.