Last week I talked about design dilemmas common with the quintessential rectangular urban yard, and space (or should I say, lack thereof), is usually at the top of the list. From inspiration to DIY's, tips on products available on the market and where to source them — this post will surely have you dreaming up new ways to best utilize a small footprint in the garden.

Sure, you've got your bucket and shovel, but if you have access to a good sandbox or (suppressing my jealousy) a beach - kick it up a notch with more sand toys. These are all small enough to be thrown in your stroller or beach bag  - just don't forget them when you leave.

One great way to light up your balcony on warm nights is to harness the power of the sun with solar lanterns. No cords or hard wiring required. Just hang, let them soak up their solar energy and then you're good to go once darkness falls. 

Those of you who followed along with my liveblogging of the January Cure may be surprised to learn I have a three-season porch. Nowhere in any of my posts was it mentioned, because it's sadder than even my corner kitchen cabinet. It's always been a clutter magnet, and now I'm ready to reclaim it as a functional and pretty space for growing herbs and entertaining.

When asked what my favorite garden tool is, I enthusiastically effuse over my half-moon edger, like the one here from Blue Stone Garden. Many people don't use them, or even know what they are for, but they are — in my opinion — the one tool that can most easily help you transform a garden. 

Earlier this week I looked at online sources for gardening supplies which, if you don't have a car or you're pressed for time, are great for getting your garden gear. But if your idea of a relaxing Spring Sunday is strolling through a garden center, breathing in the scent of wet soil and planning your own little outdoor space, this list is for you.  

If you're lucky enough to have some outdoor space, now's the time to start putting it to use. Or at least lay the groundwork. Once Memorial Day rolls around, you'll want that little outdoor escape, even if it's just a fire escape or front stoop. These five stores have great online catalogs to help you get started ... and you never even have to leave your living room.

With warm weather on its way comes the opportunity to dine al fresco, one of the great pleasures of the season. Eating in the open air also means flies making a dive for your meal and just generally getting in the way. Here is a safe and easy way to repel these pests without using harmful sprays. More

Recent college graduates, Clayton & Chaz, were tight on money, but large on outdoor space. By using 95% recycled materials and a lot of sweat equity, they were able to transform their backyard from ho-hum, to shabby chic — with a budget of only $210! More

Product: Mophie OutRide for iPhone 4/4s
Price: $149.95
Rating: Recommend*

The Mophie OutRide was designed with one thing in mind: outdoor action. The hard case OutRide converts the iPhone into a 170 degree wide-angle action sports camera, complete with secure mounting kit for both dry and water based sports. Unfortunately, my mountain biking and snowboard days are over and I didn't have an iPhone 4/4s to test the unit out, so I turned to some a friend with younger knees and a love of bombing downhills to get his hands-on impressions about recording while riding with the Mophie OutRide... More