Backyard Landscaping Project - Phase 1

So we started implementing our landscape plans in the backyard and got a big chunk of the work and plants put in.  I have some more plants to put in this spring and next fall, but I'm so happy with all we've done so far.

Take a look. 

Before:  (we had already rounded out the corners by removing some of the grass).

 

After:

I've got two of my favorite trees in the backyard.  The top photo is a Magnolia tree in the corner.  They produce the most gorgeous, big white, creamy flowers in the spring/summer.  The bottom photo has two Coral Bark Maples in the corner.  Their bark turns the brightest shade of coral you could image in the fall and last all winter long.  I'll take a photo and post it later... it is so beautiful and will be great winter color.

These are called dwarf Burning Bush and should turn bright red in a few weeks.  

So Phase 1 is complete and I'm already looking forward to Spring Edition Phase 2!!    Wow, who knew that I'd enjoy gardening so much; especially after all those years of complaining while I was growing up!!