unknown: Google Images

But I don’t know if I’ll ever get to actually own one. I think the maintenance and remodel of an old home might ruin our marriage.

Our last home was a good compromise. It was a 1920’s Tudor in Pennsylvania with lots of character, and had been somewhat well maintained by the previous owners. We did minor things that improved the home quite a bit, when we sold it 3 years later. I tried to find pictures, but this is all I could come up with.

This is a picture of our replaced floors. There was hardwood floors, but they had been so damaged…boy, that was HARD work.

You can some of the character…we had a cool door leading into the kitchen, that swung both ways. AND both floors, we didn’t get it all finished until after Christmas.

Anyhoo! So, how do I get some of the charm I want in a new home, surrounded by neighbors who houses look exactly like mine??

We have lived in our current home in suburbia for almost 2 years and I have slowly been changing the landscape, but this year I plan to really focus on giving the outside some character.

Here’s the backyard today.

(Excuse the mess, I didn’t take the time to clean up before I took the pictures. You get the idea…not very interesting. It is, however, a great jumping off point. )

The two decks offer loads of potential and the fence adds some privacy. The shed is going to be the biggest challenge. It is SUPER functional, but not at the least bit interesting!

Let’s not even discuss our dilapidated slide structure, which HAS to stay for at least the next 3-5 years.

So here’s my plan. I am going to experiment with deck and concrete stain, just a hint…it’s going to have a pattern! (hopefully) To camouflage the fence, I am going to try to plant something in front. I’m debating this issue. I’m thinking either a climbing hydrangea or ornamental grass, any suggestions? I am not a gardener. And lastly, I want to change the furniture up a bit.

I’ll keep you up to speed on the process, but PLEASE feel free to offer suggestions!