don't throw out those old workboots - use them as planters for
cactus like hens n' chicks on your porch steps or in your garden.
put a small layer of rocks in the bottom, use reg. planting soil and plant your flower or item of choice. water sparingly for a few weeks as the boot will hold...
watch for folks giving away thier water beds - the frames w/o the headboards make for good raised beds and should last you a year or two while you look for sturdy scrap lumber or blocks.