I have installed about 190 feet of drainage pipe in my yard in the last three weeks.  Digging trenches with a pick-axe is fairly straight forward, but terrible demanding on an accountant’s arms.  Digging trenches with a shovel is near impossible, especially in rocky soil.  Fortunately, I discovered the difference after the first fifteen feet of trench and bought the pick axe (thanks Carlos).  Best $20.00 I’ve spent in weeks.

So now the water is directed away from the foundation – and down various hills – on all four corners of the house.  Someone once told me that water around a house is a very destructive force.  What do I know?  So I believe them – as I continue to play the landscaping game.

Since the drainage is complete, it’s time to start focusing on the grass. 

The dead grass that is.