Eons ago we promised updated photos of our new grass-filled backyard after the Craigslist cleanout. The grass has FINALLY decided to grow, so instead of waiting any longer, here are the latest shots and a quick update on how the yard is shaping up.
First, the “before” — a backyard that was picturesque enough for our wedding but honestly a maintenance headache. It looked charming in photos, but it took too much time and effort to keep up:
We put an ad on Craigslist offering free bushes and gravel for anyone who could use them, and the yard instantly simplified. Once the shrubs and gravel were gone, the space opened up and felt more manageable. Here’s what remained after the giveaway:
Now that the grass has filled in, the yard is wide open and much easier to maintain — exactly what we wanted. It’s an inviting, low-maintenance lawn that’s ideal for relaxing afternoons, hosting friends, and most importantly, Burger’s bug-hunting expeditions:
The lawn isn’t lush yet, but it’s improving steadily. By next spring we expect the turf to be noticeably denser and healthier. Our long-term plan is to add large stepping stones that lead from the patio — visible in the foreground of the photos — out to the edge of the woods in back. That area is where we already have a small fire pit and a hammock for two, so a clear, attractive pathway will make the space feel intentional and usable.
We prefer big slate or bluestone stepping stones because they sit low in the grass. When you set them into established turf, you can mow right over them. That eliminates the need to edge around stones or use a weedwacker, which fits our priority: easy, low-effort yard care. We’ve learned that smart design choices — like durable stepping stones and minimal planting — save time and keep the yard functional without constant upkeep.
Beyond practicality, the plan is aesthetic too. Large natural stone creates a clean, timeless look that complements the wooded backdrop and the simple lawn. The pathway will guide visitors from the patio through the yard to the fire pit and hammock, creating a series of cozy outdoor rooms without adding anything fussy or high-maintenance.
For now, the fall and winter months will keep us from doing any major landscaping. We’ll wait until spring to dig, level, and set the stones, and to make any additional improvements. In the meantime, we’re enjoying the easier maintenance and the open space for casual use. It’s been rewarding to see the transformation from a fussy garden that required constant care to a relaxed, functional backyard that invites use and play.
Until spring arrives and we get back to planting and stone-laying, we’ll leave the backyard exploration to Burger. He’s thrilled to have more lawn to patrol, and honestly, so are we — because enjoying the yard is the whole point of making it simpler to maintain.