I'm gald you posted the second pic. I really hate the front deck look on a home but yours makes sense when you see it's a wrap around. Still I would focus on making the area look more like a porch than a deck. Railing/columns/over hang....

What a nice setting! When budget allows, explore having a shed roof added on the right side. If interested, consider painting the trim a complimentary brown/gray to tie in with the roof and the skirting on your deck (samples below). Paint entry door a pleasant color. Landscaping would add a lot of appeal, using as much natural materials as possible.

Check what plants in your area are deer resistant and honestly cannot imagine any plants worse than the trees that cloose to the home but I don't live there .I do not see how you can do a portico of any kind with thta large overhang but if you can extend that porch all the way across it will totally suit the house and give you an area to brighten up with some seating. A brightly colored front door would be great too.

Lovely setting. Fire resistance is the most important thing. A garden that is mostly rocks would be fairly fire-resistant and deer-resistant. If this is the main family entrance, consider adding a seasonal wreath on the front door and leaving it at that. Change the wreath every few months.

Thank you. It really is so much better in the summer with some plants, but those darn deer will eat almost anything! I am actually looking for a spring wreath. I might change the red trim the next time we paint. The roof will be replaced this year due to hail damage so I thought if ever to do a porch this might be time but still probably cost prohibitive. Maybe some taller built planters or benches to cover the mechanical by small window (that's the laundry room)?