Biting Off More Than We Can Chew?

Today, we are getting a delivery from Lowe's. The delivery will consist of two pallets of paver stones, sand and gravel. Why? Because I am convinced that my husband and I can somehow install a stone patio ourselves even though we've never done anything remotely close to this before in our lives.

It doesn't sound all that intimidating. Our plans are for a 16' x 16' square patio. The way we will lay it out won't require us to cut any of the stones. All we have to do (notice how I say that with no real experience to back this up) is dig up the area and level it, put in the stones, level them, put down the sand and start laying down the paver stones. Sounds simple enough, right?

The reality is that I realize this will be a lot of work. However, I have visions in my head of the future enjoyment. It will be another place for people to gather at parties. A place to cuddle by the fire on chilly evenings (did I mention we want to put in a firepit too?). A little place to escape to with a glass of wine or a magazine when life is stressful.

Hopefully, when all is said and done, we will have a cool patio to step onto from our deck--and hopefully, if this project is a lot more difficult than anticipated, my husband will not remember that I suggested that we do this.