Junkyard renovation

We have completed everything just in time for summer bar-b-que season! After over 15 years of neglect the yard looks great. All of the junk cars, construction debris, and invasive plants are gone....in their place a new patio, raised-bed garden, and rain garden. We also had a 10x10 storage shed constructed in the back of the lot. Hopefully, that will give us enough storage for all our outdoor toys. The sections of fencing are being built this week, don't worry we won't bore you with those pictures.

Can't wait for friends and family to join us for a cookout.

Just to refresh your memory, here is what the backyard looked like last June.......

June 2010...The rain garden on the left collects water from 3 downspouts and will be planted with native grasses and shrubs (once I find the right ones).

A view of the raised-bed garden and dwarf apple tree. We also planted blackberry and blueberry bushes.

A close-up of the shed. Painting is on my "honey-do" list (can't wait)

A view of the patio and gardens from the shed.

A close-up of the flagstone patio. Glad we did not tackle this one on our own....the contractors spent several days cutting the stone and laying the foundation!

A view of the perennial beds installed in the front yard.

A close-up of the shade tolerant bushes and flagstone walkway. We used columbines, dog-hobble, and several native ferns.

Black-eyed susans, echinacea, phlox, and heather bushes in the front beds. We also added a few different kitchen herbs (cilantro, rosemary, etc.).