Have you ever watched those shows about renovating yards and thought that you wish you could do that? Thats where I was last year with the poor me syndrome. Then one day I woke up and decided to put my budget together and see what I could do. I am so glad I did because I have come a long way since that first day!

Our culture is all about what you cant do or dont have. I decided to put together a list of what I could do, along with a list of what my friends could do as well. Between all of us there was a plethora of experience, knowledge and talent. I knew my friend may not have time to help me but they would be glad to lend me their knowledge and experience and a few tools, if needed.

I was always taught you have to start with the end in mind so the wife and I sat down on an afternoon and went over everything we could possible want. We had things from trellises to raised beds to a shed and a greenhouse. We also included an expansion on the deck.

Once the list was completed I have to admit it seemed daunting. Just looking at the work involved made mw wonder if I had bit off more than I could chew. It was time to call in the Calvary and get a couple of opinions from knowledgeable friends. Both suggested I start by working with what was already there, which was the fence and deck so I did that first. I moved the fence and repaired the deck.

Dealing with the fence and deck was a job but it was well worth it. I did some research and found out that once you have these items you have to take care of them by sealing them for your weather conditions, which we did. My wife found some great wooden post caps to finish off the look and protect the posts as well and it still looks fantastic!

As things have progressed since then we have made great progress. We purchase what we want in kit form and move on from there. Doing it this way has worked out great. We arent finished and just chip away at it as we can. Even though its not complete its far better than it was this time last year.

What I love about the kits is they come ready to assemble and install. Of course the shed took longer to put together than the raised beds but it was still quicker than I had thought it would be. Weve been able to do the renovations that we choose to do at the rate we can afford. We think we will be completely done by the end of summer this year. Im almost sad because I have had a blast and Ill have to find something else to do. My wife is thinking kids are next; Im thinking a new kitchen!