ValHalla's Profile

Rebecca, I ordered my culantro seed from Kitazawa: http://www.kitazawaseed.com/seed_374-185.html
Baker Creek also sells it. http://www.rareseeds.com/culantro-or-vietnamese-coriander/
I have not gotten around to planting it--hope to soon!
I found a rau ram plant at the Arlington VA Courthouse farmers market last year, but mine died over the winter.

It sounds like sheer curtains and/or large potted plants on your patio may be your only option.
I just wanted to say I feel your pain. I also have neighbors--one whole yard away--that have an elevated deck, and it is awful to have people staring down into your yard. I know they are not looking at me, but it is unnerving, and they are extremely loud.

I'll be making the spinach mascarpone pasta you featured earlier this week:
http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-spaghetti-with-mascarpo-76811
but first a cocktail--something simple with Rhuby (now called Rhubarb Tea but I like "rhuby" better) http://www.artintheage.com/spirits-landing/rhuby/#
I'll also be using up the Brussels sprouts from my garden.

Fascinating post. I'll be looking for the real deal this growing season so my za'atar will be authentic--though it is delicious with regular old thyme as well.

The previous location is the best (over fireplace is too high, plus yuck). Place your sofa perpendicular to the fireplace, and then place two chairs across from it. You will be able to see the tv over the chairs just fine. This setup has the added bonus of not making the tv the focal point. When it is off, you still have a nice conversational area floating in the center of the room near the fireplace. This is how my 12x16 living room is arranged and it works perfectly for us.

I have trouble with disease getting cucumber plants, so I'm giving the Mexican sour gherkins a try this year. I ordered my seeds from Baker Creek, which has a wide variety of unusual plants.

Do you know of a brand that works well? ... because having used those combos in Europe, I'd have to think twice before purchasing one. She explained that she purchased the machines used, so she's stuck with them for a while.

Anything other than this genius idea is insanity!

You don't have to hire a professional to execute it, which would be pricey, but you should consider having a consultation. Also, take advantage of any courses local organizations and garden centers (or your local cooperative extension or master gardeners) offer--some of your neighbors are already recommending them above. Head to the library--an overview of the design books you find most helpful would make a great post.

Start with the privacy issue, as that may involve the largest and most permanent investment. It's something I overlooked and regret now. Next, pick sections to work on, like the vegetable area you mentioned, which will need the sunniest spot. I started on the edges of my yard and am working my way in, so I can restore the central portion of remaining lawn last--my least favorite chore. To prevent weeds, mulch away. You can often get bulk mulch from your local govt for a pittance.

p.s. It gets more satisfying as the features you want start to fill in, but it never gets easier or less back-breaking. I've never been as sore and tired as after a day spent working in my garden.
good luck, so exciting! I also bought a tiny house with a large, blank-slate yard, so I know how much fun you are in for. I'm in a different climate, but to see how far you can come in a few years, check out http://dinkydoover.blogspot.com/2012/08/three-years-of-dinkydo.html

I love the look, but since I read that they are of questionable quality, my desire has faded.