Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
JANUARY 2026
BLGENVIRONMENTAL.COM
407.702.7905
A TESTAMENT TO TIME AND LOVE PHOTOS AND FAITH
Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you were blessed to enjoy wonderful moments over the holidays and have started 2026 in a positive spirit. Every January presents us with a new opportunity to bring fresh joys and wonders to our lives, and I wish you only the greatest happiness in the weeks and months ahead. As much as I love looking forward, I also find great positivity and peace in reflecting on the gifts God gave me in the past. In case you didn’t know, Jan. 19 is Good Memory Day, a
Fast-forward several years, and Megan and I crossed paths again when she was 22 or 23, and I was in my late 20s. Before we reconnected, I had prayed for a wife and someone who shared my faith. Before long, we began dating. One day, while we were talking in a Starbucks, something just clicked in my head, and I said to her, “You’re the one; I’m going to marry you.” Although it took us a couple of years to
perfect time for us to honor those special moments that have enriched our lives. I’m looking forward to it for two big reasons: 1) It’s the day after my birthday, and 2) I’ve always believed in honoring positive memories from the past and creating new ones for the future.
ROBERT
finally get married, we knew at that moment that we would be together forever. We celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary this past October, and I’m so grateful to spend my days with her as we raise and travel with our three beautiful children. I praise God for answering my prayers. Trying to stay grateful all the time has really helped me in my daily life. I’ve kept a journal over the years, and I do my best to update it every day (even though I now use an app more often than a pen). Life gets busy at times, but I strive to write at least a sentence each day to express my gratitude or something I need to improve. It’s been an excellent way for me to stay grounded, keep good memories at the forefront of my mind, and maintain good mojo every day. One of the most extraordinary aspects of life is that it sometimes takes years to truly appreciate a significant moment. Who knew that the grumpy teenager who didn’t like having his picture taken would be blessed with so many gifts decades
MEGAN
As I sit here writing this article, I’m looking at a photo in my office that always brings a smile to my face. It’s me at 16, looking sullen and too cool for school (as many 16-year-olds do), along with my sisters. Seeing this photo in 2026 makes me realize how far I’ve come in the 30 years that followed that picture, especially since there’s someone else incredibly special in it: the love of my life, Megan. To be honest, I had no inkling that Megan would be my partner in life back then. She is five years younger than I am and was much closer to my youngest sister at the time. Never would I have imagined that we’d be married one day, so the image serves as a reminder of how life unfolds in unexpected ways and how God has blessed me more than I could have imagined. ROSE (MY SISTER)
later? If you take the time to reflect on a moment or event in your life that helped shape you in glorious ways, I guarantee you’ll be amazed.
Robert Burns
1
WE MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR AREAS BEAUTIFUL
407.702.7905
FLORIDA YARDS GET A STRONGER STYLE 2026 TRENDS FOR TIMELESS, INTENTIONAL OUTDOOR LIVING
Whether you’re interested in a simple refresh or a complete redesign, January is the ideal time to consider how your landscape can become more beautiful, functional, and enjoyable. Here are six of the top landscape trends I’m already seeing across Central Florida homes this year. 1. Plants With Texture, Structure, and Movement Instead of relying heavily on bright color, 2026 is shifting toward landscapes built on contrast and texture. Ornamental grasses (such as muhly, fountain grass, and Lomandra) provide softness and movement. Evergreen anchors (Eagleston Holly, Southern Red Cedar, and Podocarpus) provide structure and year-round consistency.
Combined, they create layered, natural-looking beds that feel clean, modern, and timeless.
closer together. Instead of fencing, many are choosing natural green screens that add height, a softer look, and long-term appeal. Eagleston Hollies, Southern Red Cedars, Japanese Blueberries, and ornamental palm groupings continue to be some of the best performers for creating beautiful, natural boundaries and strong focal points that look great in every season. 4. Multi-Use Backyards for Everyday Living Outdoor spaces are becoming more intentional and easier to maintain. Turf play areas, compact seating zones, gravel paths, modern firepits, raised planters, and simplified patios are all part of this trend.
2. Modern, Simplified Front Entries Front entries continue to trend toward clean, organized layouts, featuring structured plant groupings, wide walkways, and large-format pavers (such as 12-by-24 or 24-by-24). These elements create a strong first impression without being overly busy. Paired with warm, low-profile lighting, the look feels fresh and calm every time you pull into the driveway. 3. Privacy That Doubles as Design Families across Central Florida are looking for more privacy as new developments bring homes
CHICKS DIG IT JUMPIN’ JULIET’S FARM GIRL FUN
Happy New Year, everybody! I’m so excited to be the first update from us kids in the first newsletter of 2026! Did you have a happy holiday? Did you jump a lot? I sure did!
If you read this newsletter a lot, you know that my big brother, Gavin, has been helping Daddy on the farm. Well, I’ve been going there lately, too! A few weeks ago, I went alone with Daddy to the farm on a Saturday and had so much fun! I got to ride alongside Daddy on his new tractor and run up a huge mountain of dirt! What more can a 6-year-old want on a weekend? Daddy said I got “completely filthy,” but that’s okay! I just loved being outside and playing.
Let’s see, what else? Well, I’ve mostly been hanging out. Hugging. Jumping. All the stuff that everybody should do more often. We
have 12 whole months this year, so make your weekends and every day as fun as you can. We’re in Florida after all! How can you feel down when everything is usually so sunny! And if you ever do have a bad day, remember there’s always tomorrow. My life is very happy, and I hope reading my little update makes you happy, too! Until next time, enjoy whatever you do … and if you’re ever bored, give climbing a pile of dirt a try!
Sometimes, I’ll sit on Daddy’s lap and give him a big hug, or I’ll ask him to play piggyback or lift me in the air. He says it’s hard to do that sometimes because I’m getting big, but he still does it for me! I overheard him say to a friend of his, “Juliet’s my little girl and last child. I cherish these moments.” I’m glad he has as much fun with me as I do with him!
2
407.702.7905
LANDSCAPE - HARDSCAPE - IRRIGATION - OUTDOOR LIGHTING
We Love Referrals — and We Appreciate You! Most of our best clients come from word-of-mouth, and we truly appreciate your support in growing our client family. If you know someone who could use our services, we would love the opportunity to help them!
5. Smarter Irrigation and Easier Control There has also been a substantial shift toward Wi-Fi-based irrigation controllers and upgraded drip systems. These systems allow families to adjust watering schedules from an app, respond quickly during colder or rainy periods, and maintain healthier landscapes with less guesswork. 6. Softer, Intentional Lighting Landscape lighting in 2026 focuses on warm, subtle, and intentional effects. Instead of bright floods or widespread lighting, families are choosing focused uplights that highlight trees, architectural features, and front entries. The goal is a comfortable, welcoming glow without overwhelming the space. If you or anyone you know is planning outdoor updates this year, I’d love to help create a landscape that feels timeless, intentional, and uniquely yours.
Referring is easy! Just share our contact info: Robert@blgenvironmental.com 407.702.7905 BLGEnvironmental.com Or simply have them scan this QR code to get in touch instantly!
Thank you for trusting us and for being part of our client family. Your referrals mean the world to us!
Robert Burns
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST!
“We recently asked BLG Environmental Services to provide a back yard landscape that would include a play space for our three large dogs as well as a space for
HAVE YOU HEARD THE GOOD NEWS? Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” PROVERBS 3:5–6 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” JEREMIAH 29:11 “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.” PSALM 37:23–24
people to enjoy being outside. The result is amazing – the creative layout included a paver patio and pergola as well as a water feature set amongst a variety of plants and also included the much needed play area for the dogs. Robert listened to us regarding our needs and desires and gave us a yard that is as gorgeous as it is functional!” –Lisa S. TAKE A BREAK!
EASY OUT
3
WE MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR AREAS BEAUTIFUL
BLGENVIRONMENTAL.COM
BLGENVIRONMENTAL.COM 407.702.7905
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
P.O. BOX 521090 • LONGWOOD, FL 32752
Schedule a Free Design Consultation With Robert Burns
WE MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR AREAS BEAUTIFUL
1
A Journey Through Joy
2
Fresh Focus for Future Landscapes
Jumpin’ Juliet: Dirt Edition
3
The Good News
Hear From Our Partners
4
Turn Cold Nights Into Warm Memories
In Central Florida, the cooler months are when we finally spend more time outdoors. After long, hot summers, it feels good to step outside when the air cools off and evenings become comfortable again. These are the nights that invite family and friends to gather, slow down, and enjoy being outside together. A backyard bonfire often becomes the natural focal point. It’s a place to share stories, toast marshmallows, and enjoy the glow of the fire under a clear Florida sky. Our mild winter season is one of the best times to enjoy outdoor living, and with a little planning, winter bonfires can become a favorite seasonal tradition. Help Everyone Stay Comfortable Even in Central Florida, winter evenings can cool down quickly once the sun sets. Encourage guests to dress in layers so they can adjust as temperatures change throughout the night. Having a few extra blankets nearby makes a big difference and adds an extra layer of comfort for anyone sitting by the fire. Provide Toasty Treats Warm food and drinks help set the tone on a cool evening. A bonfire is perfect for classic favorites like s’mores, but hot dogs, sausages, and even corn on the cob are easy options as well. Drinks matter just as much. Hot chocolate, warm apple cider, or tea help everyone stay comfortable and extend the time spent outdoors. Add Games or Fun Activities Sitting by the fire is relaxing, but a few planned activities keep the evening fun for all ages. Card or board games work well if there is enough light. When lighting is limited, more active options like flashlight tag or a simple scavenger hunt add energy. The extra movement keeps kids engaged and helps everyone stay warm as the night goes on.
Don’t Let the Fire Die
MAKE WINTER BONFIRES YOUR NEW TRADITION
4
LANDSCAPE - HARDSCAPE - IRRIGATION - OUTDOOR LIGHTING
407.702.7905
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator