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Goals for a New Year

By: Sandra Nelson; Images Sandy DeFoe

The first week of January always brings out an almost obsessive need to clean and organize my surroundings in preparation for the new year ahead. I usually attack the closets first and then move into the basement and garage storage in a frenzied attempt to achieve organizational nirvana. It drives my poor husband crazy because the “little help” I request from him usually turns into hours of unanticipated and unwelcome work as well as some unexpected expense.

This year has been a challenge for me. The temperatures here have been so frigid that the garage is too cold for me to accomplish any productive work and we don’t have a basement in this house.  Since I couldn’t finish my physical tasks, I did the next best thing. I made a cup of hot chocolate, grabbed a pencil and notebook, and started a list of outdoor tasks that I’d like to have completed before the spring growing season.

 

  1. Do a Safety Check  
Properly installed and positioned night lighting not only promotes safety, but also creates an inviting atmosphere.

Properly installed and positioned night lighting not only promotes safety, but also creates an inviting atmosphere.

 

    1. Are walkways and patios clear of tripping hazards? Is there settling anywhere? Do pavers need to be reset?
    2. Are railings firmly anchored?
    3. Do trees or shrubs obscure windows and doors? Do they create blind spots where someone could hide?
    4. Is night lighting adequate? Does it throw unwanted shadows? Do bulbs need to be replaced?
    5. Is traffic flow visible? Are driveways or street corners blocked by overgrown or poorly placed plants?

 

 

  • Examine the Trees
Winter is an excellent time to study the shape of deciduous trees.

Winter is an excellent time to study the shape of deciduous trees.

 

    1. Is there evidence of insect damage or disease?
    2. Are animals eating the bark?
    3. Would careful pruning improve the overall appearance?
    4. Will they interfere with power lines?
    5. Are they too close to the house?

 

  • Complete a Site Survey
Trees can help reduce energy costs up to 30%.

Trees can help reduce energy costs up to 30%.

 

    1. Do shrubs need to be replaced? Are they overgrown?
    2. Which beds need to be redesigned?
    3. Are there drainage issues?
    4. Is there a view that needs to be enhanced?
    5. Is there a view that needs to be hidden?
    6. Will energy costs be reduced by adding deciduous or evergreen trees?

 

Having a list of specific tasks in hand gives a sense of direction for the coming year. It’s easy to see  which ones are easily done by a homeowner and which ones are best handled by a professional landscape company. Embassy’s staff is anxious to help you get ready for 2024. Give them a call today.