When I purchased my first home, the inside looked great. The yard, however, was a different story. My resolve was to turn that mess into a landscape that would make my home the gem of the neighborhood. I soon learned that was easier said than done. Frustrated, I decided to contact a landscaper and get some help. He brought some order to the chaos, and also kept me from having a nervous breakdown. If you want to transform your yard into something beautiful, let me share what it was like to work with a landscaping professional. After you learn how we made decisions and got things done, I'm betting you will be ready to call a professional and get right to work.