(Community Matters) We are getting so close to completing the reconstruction of our retaining wall with Wheatsville, the tree well and repairing the wall with our neighbor. Might sound trite or superficial but these projects have been under negotiation, planning and construction since we purchased this property in 2004.

Martin & wife

This wall is between ourselves and our neighbor to the immediate north. Originally constructed nearly 100 years ago, the far west portion collapsed several years ago due to shifts in the retaining wall on the west end of the property. We looked hard for a craftsman/artists who would finish off the wall repair – we had the reconstructed portion poured, reinforced with rebar and tied into the retaining wall – in a style that seemed seamless with the original wall. Well, not seamless, but in 10 to 20 years, it’ll appear as if originally constructed this way. I think the stairs and gate into Wheatsville parking lot are to be installed this week – talk about a fantastic pantry!

I love that we have so much rock left over (about 30 feet of 6′ wall, double sided). Talking with Martin about the construction of an outdoor fireplace (maybe inside pool house too) with features for a bbq. And/or, may have him create raised beds from stone. Appears we are experimenting with Wheatsville and that Resolution Gardens will install and maintain, on our property behind the pool house, garden beds for fresh produce to be sold at the Co-Op. hmm, it is NOT a community garden and I’m restricting time and access. The pool house, courtyard and property are our sanctuary but this means a lot to Steven.