Brandy:

But I guess it was overboard to suggest my ceramic garden gators would make a great addition for a mini-swamp scene? 

Doesn't sound like it to me!

How long seeds keep depends on the type of seeds they are. To see if they'll germinate, put three or four on a cotton cloth or a tissue, dampen it and slip it inside a plastic bag. Don't close the bag, but keep them loosely covered and keep them damp. Check every few days to see if they've started growing. If nothing happens by the end of the normal germination period (should be on the package), buy new ones. If half of them start to grow, or one out of four, or three out of four, or all four... whatever, that will give you a pretty good idea of how good they are. I always use them if only one in four grows, but plant them heavier than specified, but you can make up your own mind at that point.  

 When it comes to a yard, I don't appy the same must be organised in neat rows principles. I like a sanctuary of natural looking greenery, water and decorations.

A few years ago I had what I called a front flower bed. It was about 80 feet long and 10 feet wide. The only thing I ever planted there was Canna Lilies. I would simply tend the plants that grew naturally and work with whatever came up each spring. It was really relaxing to look out the window next to my desk and it was fun to work it. This was where I had all the bird feeders at that time.  

As for the seeds, I figure I can toss them or try them.