Backyard Makeover Update

As we continue to stay home due to the coronavirus, I couldn't be more grateful to have a usable backyard to retreat to for some outdoor time.  This was definitely not the case last summer.  We still have minor landscaping (smaller plants, mulch, raised garden bed), furnishing (dining area), and other finishing touches to add (lighting, accessories), but the main aspects of the backyard makeover are done.  Here's a peek into what it looks like today.  One day when it is more "finished", I may get around to giving a full reveal. 😉

You can see the before photos here.

It has been so nice to retreat to our backyard for some outdoor time!  We have spent many nights gathered around the fire pit eating way too many s'mores (sometimes in our pj's)...

...and our boys have clocked in numerous hours playing on a real lawn!

The lemon tree was one of the only things that we didn't remove when we gutted the backyard.  It continues to bear fruit with absolutely no work on our part!  We use lemons for baking and cooking, making cleaning solutions, adding it to our beverages, etc.  We've also given so many away, but still can't keep up with its production.  I only hope that the veggies that I want to grow in our to-be-done raised garden bed produces the same bounty!

Here's a recap of what's been done:

• All demolition and prep work ✔
• Installation of new paver patio and pathway ✔
• Run gas lines ✔
• Build fire pit ✔
• Sprinkler system installation ✔
• Bender board installation ✔
• Drip irrigation installation ✔
• Sod installation ✔
• Plant privacy hedges ✔
• Set-up trampoline area ✔

Still left to do:

• Address the brick courtyard patio floor (to blend in with the new pavers)
• Add plants to landscaping
• Build raised vegetable garden bed
• Add top soil or mulch in planter areas
• Lighting - install landscape and hanging twinkle lights
• Furnish and accessorize

As a reminder, here's a look at the backyard right before demolition (summer 2019):

It's come a long way...