Well, it took several days but I finally have the central yard bed layed out. It took two trips to the local composting facility where I purchased four bags of small shredded wood chips. They are not fancy, but at a buck a large trash can sized bag...it's a steal. This may be temporary. We might choose to replace it with stepping stones and moss/rosemary in the future but at least it's looking very nice right now.
It was grueling work to dig up the remaining grass/sod. It must have taken 5 or 6 days. I did get some help from my husband and son, and that was a huge help. Nevertheless, it was back breaking work. I did indeed need to take a few hours, days here and there to recooperate. At last, i did the final raking and poured out the chips. I raked that around, evening it out, as best as i could.
I think in time, the color and texture will relax. I still need shoes on to walk on it really, but chances are that it will decompose naturally and be a great weed and grass preventer while giving us the natural gsetting between the beds.
Next up...the foundation is complete!
