Idea Files: Tumbled block patio and wall

Last night Shayne and I made a pilgrimage to Menards. I generally hate going to big box stores, but this time it resulted in an epiphany. We were a few edger bricks short (more about that in another entry), so the sole purpose of our visit was to get 5 bricks and leave without buying anything else. We go tthe 5 bricks, but then I wandered off. Into patio heaven.


In the middle of the inside of the store, they had set up functional displays of block and brick patios with various types of walls around them. And they were goregous! A tumbled brick patio with a block wall around the edge would be perfect in the area occupied by my failed veggie garden.


I couldn't find any pictures online that showed exactly what I want, but this one's close:
The brick pavers go on sale every so often for $0.25 each, so the cost for a 11' by 22' patio is very reasonable (under $300). The wall will be about $150-$200, depending on what type of block we decide on. I know what we're buying with next year's tax refund!

Idea Files: Natural Swimming Pools

Don't these look awesome?!

I just came across these today. I would very much like to eventually have a pool and watergarden, and this "new" pool system combines them both into one. They use plants as the filtration instead of chemicals, so there's no chlorine. As long as there's a natural balance, the waster stays clean and clear. Your "pool" can be home to plants, amphibians, ducks, and dragonflies.

According to Mother Earth Magazine, a dedicated team of do-it-yourselfers can create a pool for approximately $2000. When can we start digging??

Idea File: Exterior Color Scheme

I was putzing around on the internet a few days ago and came across a website for a restoration company in Atlanta called Laughing Sun Renovations. Although I don't like everything they do, this picture of a Foursquare really caught my eye. I'm aware that it will be years before we're ready to tackle the exterior, but it's never too early to start thinking! I mocked it up on BHG's Home Designer, and this is an approximation of what it would look like on the Prairie Box.
Hopefully, our porch will have columns and stairs(!), but I really like the green. All of the houses in the area are either white, cream, or gray, so it would really stand out.