Webbing

What didn't I try? Well, not much! I started by visiting local landscaping stores to discuss what I needed to do to get started compiling the information I needed. Those that were particularly helpful were:

Small's Landscaping located in Valparaiso, IN.
http://www.smallslandscaping.com/

Chesterton Feed and Garden
http://www.gardenguides.com/resources/landscaping/landscaper.asp?store=349645

I was surprised at how willing they were to talk to me. I told them what I liked, they told me whether or not those items will do well given our location in rural Chesterton and the direction the house faces. I took pictures of plants that I think are pretty and would like to see them in my yard with me. If anyone is familiar with Coffee Creek ( http://www.coffeecreekwc.org/) in Chesterton, then you know I had plenty of options. For those plants I was unable to identify, both Smalls and Chesterton Feed were able to help me out.

YOU TUBE to the rescue...

My husband and I have always tried to do big projects on our own with one shovel and one wheelbarrow. This time I was determined to do the homework ahead of time. So, what better way than to watch tutorials free on-line. These are the ones I found particulary helpful:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pmuq_hPaZdE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTLhkUC0O7Q&feature=PlayList&p=C5356EDD734987CE&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=22

Other places I went online were:

HGTV homepage. There are so many tips and the site is organized very well.

http://www.hgtv.com/landscaping/index.html

The Landscape Design Site offers how-to videos adn key information on plants and patios.

http://www.the-landscape-design-site.com/landscapeideasgallery.html

Right now I feel like I am following the InfoZone model of wondering, seeking, choosing, connecting, producing, and judging as well as Dr. Lamb's W's. There is so much information gathering going on, now I need to organize it.