Back around Memorial Day, we met Janette and her husband for brunch. The Beloved and I were discussing our trip to a local home-fair and that we were excited because we were going to re-do our backyard. We’d hoped that maybe we’d be able to invite them over for an Independence Day cook-out when it was done.
See, The Aerie has a teensy Southern Californian backyard. The previous owners had planted a number of tropicals – which by this Spring had all overgrown – and so we weren’t even getting the most out of the small space that we had (plus, they were blocking our view…).
All we needed was to agree on a design and landscaping plan (we’d found someone at the home-show that seemed like she’d be good to work with), get that approved by our HOA, find a contractor and get the old yard demo’d and the new plan installed.
Okay – so maybe the 6 weeks between Memorial Day and Independence Day was a little optimistic. Surely, by Labor Day, right?
Errr — Columbus Day??
Election Day Cookout, right?
Sigh.
Finally, we’re entering the homestretch (the main delay was finalizing the design and planting plan…we wanted flagstone, planting beds and drought-tolerant plantings). The old stuff is gone, and out contractor assures us that they will be finished the plantings and laying the flagstone by Thanksgiving. With only 3 working days left, I’m a little skeptical.
Maybe just to be safe, I should be preparing invites for a Boxing Day BBQ….
Stevil 
Good luck with that! You backyard looks like a blank canvas, can't wait to see it all done.
Maybe they'll still be in time for an Independence Day BBQ. You didn't put the date on the invites yet?Aren't renovations great?
I feel your pain about delayed projects, although I have to say the prospect of planting any flowers sounds heavenly right now. Our ground is frozen solid and it's a frosty hell around here….I would give my eye teeth for 50 degrees and a few roses! LOL
Can't wait to see the finished project!
I didn't know you celebrated Boxing Day, but hey, I'd come and the yard looks great!
Ellie — the nice thing about our delay is that this is a great time of year to plant — we're just about to go into our rainy season. <crosses fingers>
Yes — it BETTER be done by Boxing Day! :D And you're welcome to come and hang out in our yard anytime. ;)
Lol, these things are never done on time, eh? Can't wait to see the 'after' photos!