Backyard Remodel

I have been working on my landscaping skills since spring break.  The before shot is from when we moved in and the after shot is from a week into summer break.  I removed the tree in the corner (by hand/ with Alea's help).  Dug up the grass added weed block and over a foot of rock (no plants will touch my house).  It turned out to be a great place to keep the Kayak.  The Gumbo Limbo was place there, however he doesn't seem to be thriving.  We are considering a move up towards the front planter bed where he can get more shade.