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Family's yard borders busy Palatine shop

My wife and I live behind a busy street and a very well known doughnut shop in Palatine. We have tried to turn our backyard into the oasis where we'd want to have family over to entertain, but we just don't have that green thumb to keep anything alive.

We have spent a ton of time to make our backyard at least somewhat nice to look at, yet we even failed at that. We have tried to block our not-so-pretty view and put some green grass down but we haven't succeeded.

Now that we have a 14-month-old, we really would love to spend more time in the backyard as a family. Especially with the warmer weather, we would all love to be together to enjoy our backyard. Time is hard to come by now days.

Design by Blain's Farm and Fleet

Expert: Jillian Boris, www.farmandfleet.com

The Boivins live on a busy street and need more privacy in their backyard, which is adjacent to a popular doughnut shop. They also need some outdoor play space for a new baby.

Budget: $3,000 or less

Suggestions

• Block out the unsightly businesses and create your own backyard oasis with an Instant Gazebo Screen House.

• While your little one is tiny right now, pretty soon he's going to be walking and playing outside. Get a Swing n' Slide Playset that can grow with your child, including a Little Tikes 2 in 1 Snug 'n Secure Swing.

• You can also enjoy evenings outside surrounded by a fire pit, grilling hot dogs and toasting marshmallows.

• Don't forget the patio chairs and table!

The Instant Gazebo Screen House could provide some privacy for the Boivin family. Photos Courtesy of Blain's Farm and Fleet
A fire pit would be a nice fit for this yard.
Little Tikes 2 in 1 Snug 'n Secure Swing
The Swing n' Slide Playset can be expanded as your child grows.
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