Weekend Yard Work

Whether we noticed it during the open house or not, we inherited a lot of yard junk. Some of it was sitting right on top, and some has been lurking below the surface of the overgrown yard. We're the fourth owners, and I think I've unearthed a layer of flagstone, brick, concrete and other landscape materials from every generation since 1966. On the positive side, we've excavated some major square footage of flagstone in great condition. We will be able to reuse all of it for patios, stepping stones, and even maybe a cap for the brick border walls in the back yard (cause we have so much). It is likely worth a few thousand dollars of stone, which we wouldn't otherwise be buying right now. 


We also have fences on 3 sides, which I guess is common for Arlington's tightly packed neighborhoods, but something I didn't grow up with on an acre in the country. Though good fences make good neighbors, today I removed the chain link fence on the right side, which we share with neighbors whom we've connected with nicely and feel fortunate to have sharing a property line. We will need some sort of shielding from this side...they have a porch and windows facing our master bedroom windows, but a rusty fence wasn't the best choice. I'd like to think about options for a low cedar fence with some taller dark green border plants that grow 6-8' over time. I have a vision for this side of the yard as a shade garden with a path cutting through it. It will also likely be a mutual decision with the neighbors. Maybe this is a 3-year vision...


Some pictures of the rusty fence pieces and the resulting border-less property line for now. I'm surprised how big the side yard is with the trees, clutter and fence removed. 

Excavated right side yard

Former Chain Link Fence...bye bye

On the left side yard, slowly things are looking less cluttered and ready for some thoughtful plantings. We will be expanding the side porch (which is currently a stoop for the side door only), so we can grill on the side of the house away from guests. The side patio will extend back to connect with the existing back patio. There is a roof for the side porch planned for all-weather grilling. 

Does anyone need a bathroom counter and sink?

Left side yard view from back corner, still many roots, rocks, and other junk to remove.