Building an outdoor space was not our first priority when we moved into our three-flat on the north side of Chicago. First we needed to overhaul the electricity, take up carpet and redo the floors, completely redo the basement apartment, and paint all of the walls beige instead of green.
But soon we began to think of what it would be like to have an outdoor space, even a small one, where we could eat dinner, barbeque, or read the newspaper over coffee on Sunday morning. During those perfect cool summer and surprising warm fall days when the weather is perfect, it seemed a crime not to have a place to go outside. So we started to think in terms of garden courtyard.
Originally, our backyard was basically a small patch of grass and cement used only for separating our three garages from the house. Where there was fencing, it was of very poor quality. Where there wasn't fencing, it served as a wonderful invitation for potential house breakers. The only flowers were some over zealous peonies that provided a brief splash of color in June and proceeded to look like weeds during the rest of the year. Something needed to be done.
No one was certain why we were doing it at first, particularly given the expense. After all, our kitchen still has a sink from 1920. They also asked, "Why are you going to tear up your driveway and plant grass?" Lastly, there were people who accused us of knowing nothing about gardening. It is not easy being misunderstood, particularly by people who have nice backyards already.
But we were not to be discouraged and the result can only be described as one of the best parts of our house. There is an iron table and umbrella from Smith and Hawken for eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is a small patio where our daughter can ride her bike. And there is the satisfaction of watching things grow in beauty throughout the different seasons and years. We would do it again in a heartbeat.
