I need advice on what to plant in a few areas of my new yard. The retaining walls have a drip system hooked up, but water conservation is always a plus, especially in my 5b zone.
The landscapers used extremely clayey material in the retaining walls. I have tilled in compost to help drainage, but some areas are still extremely difficult to work with.
I will not be hiring anyone to do anymore work, so keeping it cost effective and simple is important. I am trying to achieve a somewhat zen feel, but I also would like flowers and that might bring life to the area. I want bees, birds and butterflies to flock here. Fall foilage and Evergreens are also welcomed in my domain.

The first photo is looking west. I have a veggie garden on the left. There is a big gap at the bottom of the fence that I would like to cover with something. I also Need advice on the retaining wall as well.

The second photo is looking east. I have planted A Gogi berry bush, but willing to move it. The plants along the boarder are golden nugget ice plants. I am looking for something that would grow behind them along the fence neighbors fence.

The third photo is my attempt to construct a steppingstone pathway (ha!) I have planted mother of thyme in hopes of it taking over the area, but yet to see any growth. This area is shaded from morning sun, but exposed in the heat of late afternoon. To the right of the pathway there is about a 2-3 foot wide bed that is along the back wall of the house. There is also that area in the background to the left and along the steps up.

The last photo is my nemesis. This area is the view from my mediation/workout room. I need plants that will have year round interest, especially in winter. Closing that gap between the fence and wall with something living is important to me. I am looking for something that will cascade between the fence. Everything I have planted on the retaining wall has died. It's so clay-rich and exposed to the sun all day long.
Any ideas would be super helpful!