Back in July, I mentioned that I've been a bit overwhelmed this summer with our big landscape overhaul.  We're getting a lot closer to done, and I'm almost ready to celebrate.

Today I spent most of the day digging and thumping - or as my husband understands it, moving dirt and sending thumping sounds through the house. He got up early this morning and took advantage of the beautiful cool weather by taking a long motorcycle ride.  Now I don't have to worry about driving him nuts with the thumping all day.

This has been a long process, and I'm glad it's nearly done.  I move soil from this pile (which is much smaller now than it was in the morning).

I distribute soil over a larger area.

I cover loose soil with a piece of cardboard, thump the tamper down a few times to compact the soil, then repeat in the next spot.

Then it looks like this - much smoother and firmer.

After doing that for a while, I take a break for lunch - mini pretzel baguettes with provolone, rosemary ham and pesto - yum!

Then I go back and do it for a few more hours, until my body says "ENOUGH!!!!"  And I finish off by planting another small area in hostas and wild ginger.

Now it's time for a beer, a shower and a nap. While I'm on the patio enjoying that beer, I also get to enjoy  these - planted several weeks ago.

Until tomorrow....