Yeah I think the garden path idea is really the way to go. We spent last weekend laying stepping stones and it made a noticeable difference in how the backyard feels now. The most important part was getting the spacing right so you are not taking awkward steps or shuffling between stones. We used flat sandstone pieces from the landscaping supply place out on Highway 6 and they had a good selection with reasonable pricing. I would suggest laying them out first before you start digging anything up. Just place them where you think they should go and walk the path a few times to see if the spacing feels natural. My wife walked it four times before we agreed on the arrangement. Also it is important to put down a decent layer of sand underneath otherwise the stones will shift after it rains. We discovered that the hard way with the first three we set. Anyway that is my advice if you are thinking about doing something similar for your side yard area.

I have been working on that mushroom risotto recipe and I think I finally have it figured out. The key is the broth temperature and being patient with the stirring process. You want to keep the broth just below a simmer and add it one ladle at a time waiting until each addition is mostly absorbed before adding the next one. I have been using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms and I saute them separately first with a little thyme and garlic then fold them in near the end of cooking. Also I stopped using parmesan from the can and started grating it fresh and it really does make a noticeable difference in the final dish. The texture gets creamier without becoming heavy. Last time I made it I added a splash of white wine after the first ladle of broth and let it cook off and that added another layer of flavor. Let me know if you try it and how it turns out for you.