Every yard has certain elements that when put together, make a very well structured yard enabling the entire family to enjoy being outside.  A large part of this is the lawn and even though we all would like to have a yard full of perfect green, lush grass that no one ever walks on, that is not very realistic for the average active family.  Add a dog or two and this is now virtually impossible!

So decide what is important to you and your family and make concessions as to which part of the yard you will use for what.  The first time I ever saw this type of compromise was my grand-parents yard where there were certain areas that we did not go.  However, we had a large area that we had total access to and played football and baseball to our hearts content.  The areas that we were asked not to go into were areas where my grandmother grew her price roses and assorted other garden fare as well as the vegetable garden.

Another area that is becoming increasingly important is for outdoor storage of your lawn and garden tools and equipment as well as a place to store some items that are seasonal or overflow out of your house.  Some people use their garage for this and others either build or buy a garden shed to take care of their storage.

If you have a large enough garage and it is unattached to the main house, using it to store items that contain gasoline is fine.  However, if your garage is small or attached it is recommended that you store these items in an outside, enclosed area and a small shed fits the bill and is relativity inexpensive.

The last things that your yard should have are areas where you can plant some of your favorite blooms, shrubs, vegetables and herbs if you are so inclined to grow your own food.  It is here that you can also place some additional structures and features such as arbors, trellises and fountains that really show off your landscaping.

If you can mix these elements with some of the materials used in the construction of your home, whether that is wood, brick or stone, it is a great way to tie everything together giving your yard and flowerbeds a finished and professional look. Your yard can easily become everything you have ever dreamed with a little planning and logical assessment of your families needs.