Renovation Update 2: Exterior Progress (Back)

The backyard still has a long way to go, but as of August 2015, we have continued to learn more about pool maintenance, and have really been enjoying the fruits of our Caleb's labor.

Backyard, Summer 2014, post pool maintenance, pre-paint:

Backyard, Summer 2015, after painting and removing the half-dead crabapple tree that once took up space to the right of the pool:

We love how the gray blends with the brick, rather that popping out against it, as the bright white did before.  We have gotten so many compliments on the bold blue accent, even though there were some skeptics when we first unveiled the color.

I tested out my green thumb by planting some hostas around the lower patio area last summer.  They came back this spring and have been big and beautiful despite the horrible clay soil that is prevalent in our area.

Sitting up on the deck is one of our favorite things to do when the weather is nice, because it's like being up in a tree house.  We scored a vintage wrought iron patio set on Craigslist that we have used more than our dining room set inside the house.

A beautiful impatiens plant from one of my students has doubled in size since planting it in an old ceramic casserole dish CT made in college:

A dear friend brought us this amazing planter brimming with succulents on the 4th of July.  It has been such a cool addition to our deck this summer!