A garden pond area?

http://www.imbrandon.com/21-garden-design-ideas-small-ponds-turning-your-backyard-landscaping-into-tranquil-retreats/

I love that garden pool picture, Rina :). Not sure what area you live in, Leslie - hot, dry summers maybe? kind of looks like Texas? Unless you really, really hate the palm tree, think twice about yanking it. Mature trees usually add value to the property. Perhaps hit up your local nursery (not a big box store, those garden dept personnel can be very hit and miss with actual local gardening knowledge-not to mention they often stock items that are not necessarily best for your area) and plant a native grasses/plants area to incorporate the palm tree and suit your soil etc. They can be striking and colorful arrangements and require much less water/care than trying to force a planting that isn't natural to your area.