First one looks like Dusty Miller which is a drought resistant perennial. Second is a weed, a dandelion to be exact. Not recognizing the dandelion tells me that you would greatly benefit from taking a beginning gardening class at your local nursery. Also I think you must live in a western state. Get Sunset Western Garden Book as your best reference book. Most nurseries will create a landscape design for you for free if you buy the plants from them. Good luck.