No matter which camp you reside in, COVID-19 and today’s political scene have created a tremendous amount of stress on all of us. In our household we add to the mix the unique personal challenges associated with a catastrophic illness. Not only do we shelter in place for community health purposes but we do so to protect my husband who is experiencing renal failure and dialysis.

As we wait for a kidney transplant we are also keenly aware that after the surgery our level of social activity will need to be limited due to the need for immunosuppression. Kidney transplant recipients are hit hard with medications the first year after surgery to prevent a rejection of the transplanted organ. Subsequent years include immunosuppressive medications (for life) but not at the concentration level as the first year. This is not our first rodeo; we went thru this process 27 years ago. For this reason (and the fact that I love to garden and we like to be outside) we chose to invest in a 2020 Backyard Remodel that would create a beautiful backyard oasis.

The other benefit to this project is that we financially supported a family-owned local landscaping company, Jon’s Lawns & Gardens (James & Jessie Baltierra), local artist, Sara Starr and retired tile expert Paul Bowden. These are challenging times with all the limitations created by the pandemic. We are very proud to say that we have done what we could to help stimulate the local economy. I hope you too will do whatever you can in yours. Locally owned businesses are so essential to overall community success. More of those dollars spent stay within the community rather than going off to the corporate headquarters. After the dust settles, its my hope that we will see an increase (and hopefully value) in the small business model.

Part of our 2020 Backyard Remodel was overdue maintenance that included redoing an old brick walkway and entrance to our garden area and the small pond. New additions to the garden include a brick patio, raised bed garden and what I have called a Peace Pole. This custom tiled 6 inch square pole is there to help create peace of mind. I realize that we are fortunate to have a large backyard to retreat in. I also realize that we are fortunate to be able to designate some cash to this project. I share this project information not to boast but to inspire. I truly believe that if we value our community resources and support them at whatever level we can, we will all be better off in the long run.

Our Peace Pole was initially inspired by the fiberglass printed poles carried in garden stores; I’ve always admired the concept. The tiles on our pole were thematically designed with intention to recognize local things in nature that we value. On the West side of the pole are featured native plants, East side features things that fly, North side features earth and sky along with our beloved fur baby Baxter, and the South side features marine life.

My husband has been a long time participant of the Mankind Project and follower of a number of introspective authors. Hence the version of directional tiles that top the poles. West (black) is the Bear or Magician. East (yellow) is the Eagle or Lover. North (white) is the Bison or King. South (red) is the Wolf or Warrior.

We couldn’t be happier with the end results. A wonderful side benefit was getting to know better the talented people in our community who made this project happen. I am always inspired and appreciative of a great work ethic, patience and creativity which was demonstrated by all involved. Maybe my project management background is showing. Enjoy the pics. We hope we have inspired you to reach out to your local talent. #iluvtogarden #2020backyardremodel

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