Homeownership

If I didn't feel like a homeowner before, NOW I do. Yup, it's official... I received my first TAX BILL in the mail. Since taxes are pro-rated on the HUD, my first concern was whether I set aside enough to pay the first installment. I got out the worksheet they gave me at closing and figured out the difference between the pro-rated amount and the actual amount. Only $9 difference. *Whew* What's the big deal, you ask? I was lucky in that my mortage program doesn't MAKE me include escrowed taxes or insurance with my monthly payment. Why should they use my money when I can set it aside and earn interest on it myself? So each pay period, I set aside costs associated with taxes, homeowners insurance, and car insurance. That money is *never* touched until it comes time to pay one of those bills. Yay for me that I have been setting aside the correct amount. :)

I've finished the flower bed on the north side of the house on Wed. A coworker gave me a huge hosta plant that I was able to split in two. I probably could've split it into fourths, but I figure I'll leave that traumatization for next year. I also added the sedum that I brought from my last place. I'm really happy that at least ONE bed is finished and looks nice.

Before
After

Here's the garden in the backyard where lava rock was used as mulch, under which is a nice network of grass roots due to neglect. Notice the lovely brick border? This was created by one of the previous owners. I'm guessing two owners back because the one before me didn't strike me as the type to do yard work (obviously).


I planted iris and tulips in there temporarily. The camera decor is mine, too. Had to spruce it up a little!