backyard remodel

So we are currently in the process of re-doing the backyard! I am allergic to grass and when the puppy plays on it...I scratch! So in an attempt to stay out of the doctors office we have decided to get rid of the majority of the grass! We were planning on doing all of this even before the puppy came. There are great and wonderful plans that we have for the backyard, incuding..but not limited to:
1. Outdoor kitchen
2. Less grass more patio area
3. Pergola of some sort
4. Wood deck to look out on the hills
5. Hot tub

So this morning we decided to start at it and went out to remove the grass...we have a lot of grass! After about 45 minutes and getting nowhere...I suggested that we go rent a rototiller from the Home Depot. Ryan agreed and off he went! That thing was amazing! We (meaning Ryan...someone had to entertain the pup) got all of the grass removed in 4 hours!!!! AMAZING! I am sad that I didnt take any real "before" pictures....but there will be plenty as the project continues! For now enjoy the shots working in the heat...and yes, we chose one of the hottest days this year to do all of this! We are NUTS!