From Sod to Stone: A Makeover for the Back Entrance

Today I set a lofty goal of clearing out the sod from in front of the porch to prepare for the 2 tons of D1 aggregate ready to be put down on the dirt. First, I had to figure out how to get the 500 pound sod removal tool off of the trailer that I rented to haul it.  I used lots of rachet straps.  Then, I had to figure out how to operate it. Yes, the nice man showed me how to start it and run the slicing blade that cuts through the sod.  He did not tell me how to do it.  Luckily, there was a QRL located on the device with instructions. I watched the video and started cutting sod.  It was the hardest thing I have ever tried to do with a tool.  I dumped it once.  Thankfully, Lori was there to help me lift it back upright.   

I found out you cannot start a cut from an area that has already been cut.  Its awful.  The vibrations are tremendous and my shoulders still ached.  Once I figured that out, I found a rhythm and managed to get the sod cut, and the machine back to the rental place within the four hour time limit.  

After I delivered the horrible, fat sod cutter back to Sunbelt Rental, I picked some energy drinks and went back home to move several hundred pounds of chunked up sod.  It thought I would never get it all moved.  My back was screaming by the time I finished and place the tarp on the dirt to keep the dogs out.

I gutted it out and moved all but a tiny bit of sod near the front gate.  I need to dig out the edges and place the bricks scalloped side down.  In addition, I still need to dig down another inch into the remaining sod.  I have enough gravel to cover the area in three inches of rock.  I will have to rent a tamper to pack it in tight or risk it getting kicked up with the snow blower.  

I curved the edges so make mowing easier.  I will like this when it is done.  The house will definitely have a better vibe after all the work we have accomplished over the short summer.