Lets talk about your square backyard.

I've been slowly working on a couple projects for the backyard that bring us more privacy, since we live on a corner lot. It's easy for me to problem solve for other people's yards, but just recently have I been able to finally get a vision for my whole yard.We have a fair amount of open grass space, nothing huge, but enough for us, and I'm realizing I like yards that are more broken up into sections.I'm just not one to like a square backyard with shrubbery dotted along the fence. I'll explain via photo inspirations:

Now before you go and think "I dont have that kind of budget, or that looks like a lot of work..." stop and remember what I learned. Take a small chunk of your yard and think up a vision for it. This little tree picture above is a perfect example. How many of you have a square patio in the back of your house? All you'd have to do is dig out the section you want on the corner, plant a tree, and slowly fill with perennials and annual bushes and ornamental grasses. What a huge difference that'd make, and really, the price doesnt have to be high. I'd be happy to help if you cant work up the vision. Some people need the vision, some people need ideas for WHAT types of plants to put there etc.
Hoping to have befores/afters of my lil projects up by early July.

Recipes

Some of you asked for my lemon rosemary chicken recipe, so I'll post it. I made it up. I'm sure there are similiar recipes out there, but this is my own. It's easy.

All you need: Garlic Powder, Mrs Dash ( or other seasoning ), garlic, white wine, lemon, rosemary, chicken and broth.

Just get the skillet super hot, season the chicken WELL, with mrs dash and garlic powder, and sear all sides of the chicken. Then in the dutch oven I put a spoonful of garlic, About 4 cups Chicken Broth ( I use better than bouillon  ) to simmer the chicken in, Squeeze a lemon, Splash of white wine, and top with rosemary and lemon slices. I either cook it on the stovetop til the chicken starts to fall apart, or put it in the oven for 350. 

While we're talking recipes, another comfort food that is ridiculously good, is Pioneer Woman's Cajun Chicken Pasta. Click HERE for the recipe. It's a huge hit in our household.

And her Mac and Cheese is the best I've ever had. I add pepperjack to it for a kick. It's God food, and totally against my diet! Click HERE for recipe. Really, I could go on and on posting about her recipes.

Ok, one more, penne a la Betsy!

It's been rainy and chilly here in the northwest, they're calling it the june gloom. So we're still in comfort food mode, waiting for the summer weather!