I am new to posting here. I am a long time gardener and am intrigued with the idea of using stone for landscaping projects, but I have no idea where to begin. The main projects I have in mind may seem rather ambitious, but I need advice as to how to do them.

-I saw a fire pit with a circular stone bench around it at a park that I would like to re create. Would you start with some kind of block then face it with stone or what? I have quite a bit of small rocks on my acreage and some access to river rock.

-I would also like to do a waterfall/pond/patio area. I have several books on these and a father in law who has created several ponds, but I would like advice on saving money.

Sorry if this is a long post. Any masonry how-to advice as well as suggestions on books will be appreciated.

Also, one big question? How do you move really big rocks. Our creek is at the bottom of a rather large hill. Thanks for any advice.