The previous owners did make a mild attempt at landscaping the front yard, but between a half-dead tree and tons more gray pea gravel, the place was in definite need for a face lift.  So in the middle of the summer (thanks to an anxious wife), we embarked on a major brick walkway/driveway extension, planted a new tree, installed irrigation, built a small retaining wall and planted shrubs.  Through all the sweat and hard work, the difference is amazing!