When I moved into my home in Buffalo Grove nearly 8 years ago, the front walkway was in terrible condition. The old concrete had settled nearly 10”, creating a place for water to sit and become slush on a cold day, and to seep into my basement when it melted. The approach was narrow, so visitors could only walk single file when they came for dinner. Because the grade had settled, it took Herculean effort to make the one large step, and my grandmother continually scolded me to “fix this sidewalk!” each time she attempted it. It was not a welcoming entry.

After considering multiple solutions, including how best to approach the home, what flooring surface we’d like most, and how to make the steps easier for Grandma, we were excited to start building our new front walk.

I love having an understanding wife and two excited kids. Their patience through the big mess of ripping out the old walk was rewarded as we installed the big sheets of Pennsylvania bluestone, which fit together like an oversized jigsaw puzzle and remind us everyday of our roots in the East Coast. We kept the old weathered stoop in place, but might clad it in matching stone someday. As my co-worker Arturo says, a garden is never finished.

Sometimes Bob says, "Go big or go home." Sometimes you can do both.

Our finished walkway, which now invites visitors in, drains water away, and allows my Grandma to easily step inside.

Sometimes an old walkway doesn't look too terrible . . .

. . . until you see what it could look like!

I see this setup every day. A tiny set of steps hidden by tightly trimmed hedges, virtually shouting to visitors and guests, "Don't go in there!"

"You complete me", said the house to its new walk, stoop, and entry pergola.

A tiny landing and narrow steps always seem to be forcing me to and from the front door. The paint lines on the ground show what could be there instead.

Wider steps flare with flair to a more gracious landing. It's a little easier to say "hello" or "good-bye" when you have a little more room to express yourself.