While in California I was awe founded by the succulent gardens I found throughout Santa Barbara and LA. Succulents look so primitive, other worldly and they survive perfectly in dry conditions. This is great since the west experiences severe droughts; they lend themselves well to this environment.
I remember as a child growing up in Arizona I would dream of having a lavish garden of wild strawberries, or in the very least a plot of grass. My mother diligently helped me in these impossible gardening endeavors, picking weeds and watering nightly only to find the following day to have my pansies fried in the sun. The landscaping of the west is so unique, beautiful, and it perfectly captures the textures and colors of this region. From what I have been told from avid succulent lovers they become something of an addiction, much like orchids are to Floridians. Since becoming enchanted by these sweet chicks and hen (another name for succulent) I have see their popularity grow! All throughout New York I've seen them proudly displayed for parties, hotel lobbies, even livening a corner of a restaurant bathroom. 
Because of this I have decided to give homage to my west coast roots. I am going to build my very own desert diorama with cactus, succulents and rocks. Over the years living in NY i realize that I have lost a crucial part of my southwest roots, the landscape. I want to regain that, and now you can make one too!
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http://www.latimes.com/features/home/la-hm-goeserside23-2008aug23,0,5065949.story