So I bought a new house this month. I was going to do the interior repairs first and the yard later in 2011 as finances permitted. However after the recent rains I realized yard needs work or will ruin my rugs and floors with mud and water. I decided to bite the bullet, pull out the charge cards and have work done on yard. I researched landscaping people in Zephryhills and found no one takes MasterCard or Visa. Since I'm hording cash for emergencies right now I guess I will need to do a "do-it-yourself" project. I work I nteh accounting field so designing a yard isn't my talent. The backyard is small and has a large concrete pad with utility shed. It seems kind of small to sod (and it's winter) and fit a mower back there as well as I will have to take the trash across the backyard 2-4 times week so would wear down a path.

I originally thought I'd rubber mulch it all. I would like a small area for gas fire pit and my lawn chair. Anyone have ideas before I head to Lowe's?

I tried to include pictures but system won't let me. Can email them if you like. The previous owners left backyard all dirt and the front is not too good either. They parked in lawn so turned all that to dirt, hence mud.