(revised 04/09/09)

Out of the jungle that was our side yard there has arisen a new outdoor leisure area featuring rustic pavers, new storage and a genuine Design by Ruth.

Gone are the overgrown bougainvilleas that threatened not only our yard but, at times, the neighbor’s as well. Gone also are the ragged desert sage plants that grew out over the walk and the half- rotted beams that served as a quasi- border along the sidewalk. In place of wasted space is a functional area that will enhance our outdoor experience.

It took a while because we did it all ourselves… aided by many, many trips to the local Home Depot. Our friends Mark and Sandra were the lucky recipients of the 4 or 5 pickup loads of dirt that, in turn, enhanced their backyard (‘course the deal was THEY had to haul it off!).

  Our work is far from done… the project is ongoing. Next on the agenda is to dye the natural gray concrete a more pleasant color… using Ruth’s famous sponge technique to apply it. Great debates are ongoing about method and color choice! And eventually electrical for lights and accessories, with an overhang extending the roof-line of the house to provide protection from The Elements (such as they are in Arizona).