First Yard project

Yesterday Craig and I and Grandpa Harrison embarked on the first major project for our great yard. Our back fence has been a mass of chest high weeds and flowers, not so happily mingled that we have taken some swipes. But overall, it is still in quite a state of neglect. WIth this house I'm determined to do things right the first time. In the past due to money, fear, or impatience, I often did things in reverse order; for instance-putting a bunch of perannials in before planting the big shrubs and trees. So I had decided to put in my "backdrop"/screening along my back fence as my first major project. To be fair, I think that downing the weeds and mounds ofmorning glory has certainly been a major project. Anyway, sweet Grandpa met us at the nursery that was having a 45% off sale on trees and after thinking and going back and forth over various options we decided to buy three Vanderwolf pines (a long, soft needled pine with a fairly narrow growth pattern, and two Paper bark River birch (the kind where the bark peels back ). The trees were not easy to move, transplant, and set in, and our Saturday was completely consumed in planting them. We are sore, very grateful to Grandpa, but also really happy with the results. I love how the birch leaves sway and turn in the wind, and how the pines are soft but solid, and how already they stop my eye. Though in the picture they look small, the pines are actually taller than us and the birch are like 25 ft. tall. Everything is just on a much larger scale here.

Another highlight has been mowing the lawn. Unfortunately for Landen, his legs-though amazing at anything athletic are just not long enough to drive the mower (it is the kind where if your bum leaves the seat it turns off-for safety reasons). But he and the other kids have had a great time sitting with Craig REALLY DRIVING. And we have all enjoyed watching Brecklyn learn the complexities and focusing issues that it takes to drive a big machine. She does great-though her refusal to back up and the mowers very poor turning radius does make for some interesting mowing patterns!

Finally, we should mention that we had a big party to celebrate closing on our house. Everything finalized early last week, but due to time and schedules we waited till the weekend to celebrate with some Cafe Rio, Air Hockey tournemant, and triple chocolate crepes. We feel so grateful to Heavenly Father and everyone who helped us in this process. Though stressful and tiring and overwhelming to us, things couldn't have gone more smoothly and timely. We feel very blessed. Thanks to all!