Backyard Before and After

Our house is over 100 years old, and when we moved in, the backyard was a mess to say the least.  The huge oak trees were beautiful, but they did not allow any sunlight to get through.  Therefore, we had no grass...just mud and weeds.  Previous owners had planted different things here and there, but the only plant that was surviving was ivy.  We had ivy everywhere!  The ivy had even covered the 6' fence in the backyard.

When we moved into the house, we had two small boys so it was imperative that we get the backyard in shape.  My husband and I are proud DIYers, but this project was WAY over our heads.  We attempted to get it done, but it was just taking too long.  We also learned that I was pregnant with our third child so I could not longer help my husband with the project. (Lucky me!)  We waited a few months and when we could no longer take it, we decided call in the professionals. They completed the project in three days!  It was amazing!  We had a retaining wall built, trees trimmed, concrete poured and sod laid down.  It was silly how excited I was over our grass!  I just wanted to roll around on it everyday even though it was early February!  The boys we so excited too!  They now had somewhere to ride their bikes and did not have to worry about the mud anymore. 

We also created a courtyard beside the house that included a fountain and fire pit.  I orginally wanted to use brick, but we opted to flagstone instead.  We have enjoyed it so much, and the whole project was worth every penny!  Hope you enjoy the pictures.

Ivy once covered this entire fence and hill.

The boys loved watching the construction.

This was our first attempted at the courtyard. 

This was also our attempt for a driveway.

This was right before a party we had during the spring.  Please excuse the ladder.  It was removed before the guest arrived.