Backyard Cleanup

Well, I shared that we spent most of last weekend cleaning up the yard and getting our outdoor spaces ready for our season of outdoor living.  We are actually expecting a cool-down into the 80's this weekend & hopefully no more triple digits until next June.

The first 2 pics are some before shots.  The first is The Man running his outdoor vacuum which works great on the pavers.  You might not be able to tell, but everything is covered in very fine sand & is just very dirty.  Even the fountain has been quiet for the last several months due to the heat.  It's not practical to run it when we can't even be out there or have the doors open so we can hear it.

Ahh, finally able to open the umbrella without choking on dust.  Still lots of work to do in the form of planting, but it's getting there.  Our space is really quite small, but The Man designed it with different levels & that makes it feel & work like a much larger space.  He built the pergola & has grapes growing up both sides.  That is also where we have our fire pit (it's not really a pit, so whatever you want to call it), an old glider that's so comfy for chilling out with a glass of wine, & a couple of old chairs that need to be replaced.  Next to this area & another step up is our outdoor kitchen (well, it will eventually be an outdoor kitchen).

This was my spring/summer flower basket for the table.  It has a makeover in it's future.

I love turquoise, so I have become quite handy with spray paint.  I do really like this color with all the colors of fall.

Okay, even though we still have lots more planting & other things to do, it definitely has a more welcoming look now.  The fountain has been cleaned, filled & is now providing that tranquil sound of gurgling water.

Never grow tired of looking at this garden shed that The Man designed & built.  There are lights inside, so at night it makes me think of Hansel & Gretel, but no wicked witch lives here!

This area needs lots more work, but I had to show it because of little Miss Abby.  This door goes into our sunroom which is her favorite hangout unless we are in the backyard.  She does not go outside at all, but will sit wistfully looking & giving the occasional "guilt-trip" meow in an attempt to make us change our mind.  Not happening!

Hope you've enjoyed the tour.  You can stop by any time.