![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKcnmbC04LGTnhHHSVSMR2Q92bP4prsL2IpEeelvgBUQuOv4SQsgJafuzoxOf_RkxKECmV7VA43VIYj6AP6C_eDPHghK2JeAdR2bPjIWXs2wBHIXLN77iyzsv-dKAa7G9eOsrg/s320/WillaOutside2.jpg)
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We're trying a few new things out in the backyard this summer. The first big, and sad, change was putting the vegetable garden to rest. It's been a staple of the backyard every spring and summer since we moved in 7 years ago. But, a garage was built next door a few years back and then we added a semi-private privacy fence the following year. Of course, the fence looks great but we were lacking one serious requirement that all healthy, thriving gardens need: ample sunlight. So instead of a garden, we now have grass. Or, as Willa calls it, baby grass. The second phase of the backyard transformation involved buying a sandbox and patio furniture. The final phase should be repairing the gates and capping off the walls around the garage, now patio, area. Or, that is what I hope.