Sprucing up My Little Outdoor Oasis: Day 1

One of the reasons I bought my condo almost two years ago was that I wanted some outdoor space again. I spent the previous 6-plus years in a second-floor apartment with no balcony.

After growing up on a farm in the country with multiple yards (our side yard was the perfect shape for a ball diamond - though the long ball got lost in the corn more than once), I missed being able to sit outside and read.

BUT I don't have the time (or really the desire) to keep up a big yard - or even a small one. So a condo with a small patio area is perfect for me. I have my outdoor space but not a lot of upkeep!

Still, there is some yardwork that is necessary and since last year I didn't get around to planting anything until late July, I'm determined to spruce it up before my gal pals come over for a well-deserved girls weekend later this month.

Before getting started, I went to my parents for inspiration. My folks have put a lot of time and effort into landscaping the homestead - especially the last few years since my mom retired from a 30-plus teaching career. You know teachers...they need to nurture. My mom has switched from surly teenagers to plants!

Here are some of my favorite features:

This was where our above ground pool once was!

 

My dad built my mom these window boxes and I love, love, love them!

 

The chicken house once stood here. When I was growing up only the foundation was left, We spent many a summer day playing house, school, store there.

 

This rock is now a part of the chicken house landscape feature. It broke my heart when my parents moved it from its spot under the tree in the side yard. It's a perfect standing rock - flat on the top, not too tall. Again it was a favorite childhood play spot.

So, I now had my inspiration...and thanks to my dad I had my tools.

 

I was tackling a rosebush so the leather gloves and long-handled clippers were a necessity. My first order of business was cutting back a rosebush that got out of control over the last two years because I don't know when or how to probably prune!

Before...

 

After...

 

Next up, planting some pretty flowers and spreading mulch. Stay tuned...