Sunday, July 29, 2012

Deck

Earlier this spring, I started my project to re-stain the back deck.  It ended up being a rather daunting project when it came down to sanding, sanding, and sanding some more.  The deck gets very hot in the sun, so my motivation had to come in the mornings when I didn't have anything else to do for several hours.  Let's just say those days were few and far between.  But, I have successfully put one layer of stain on the deck and I will call the project complete for now!  I used an opaque stain in chocolate to cover the original red stain.  We also purchased a canopy that covers the whole deck and really makes the space much more enjoyable during the hot summer.  I am in love with this backyard space and when I'm sitting on the deck, I keep thinking of more projects to do.

BEFORE


DURING


AFTER 





I have a few finishing touches yet to complete with the deck.  I will need to replace the hanging flower boxes, eventually add a second layer of stain, and add a gate by the steps so Remy can hang out without being on a leash.  

Some improvement projects for the backyard around the deck -  To the area to the right of the deck, which is where our air conditioning unit lives, I would like to add a trellis perennial.  I'd also like to add an additional row of patio blocks to add some space around the grill.  

Toward the end of the summer, I will enlarge this year's new garden and plant a shade tree behind that garden.  I'm really loving this outdoor space and whenever possible, I'm out on my deck!  Want to come over?


Remy also loves it outside and sunbathing is his favorite hobby. He's posing with the hydrangeas here.  He looks super skinny in this picture.   What do you think?


Had to share this picture of two dogs I watched while their owners were on vacation.  As I was packing my car to leave, they hopped into their own "car," ready to go !

Saturday, July 14, 2012

The 4th and 40th Anniversary!

Our Fourth of July was enjoyed in the company of family at Mom and Dad's house.  We combined our patriotic celebration with an anniversary party as well!  Mom and Dad celebrated 40 years of marriage last weekend!  
They're the best parents ever and I love them with all my heart.


I have been enjoying a Cake Boss marathon on Netflix, so I was inspired to decorate their cake.  I used a buttercream frosting over a chocolate cake.  The daisies, in honor of their wedding flowers, were cut from fondant.  It was delicious!





Our anniversary gift will be an updated family photo.  This one was just practice.  We need Brian to complete the picture!  
(I love Connor's look.  He was curious about the camera's countdown and flashing light!)


Wilbur also had a holiday of his own at Mom and Dad's for a few days.  He enjoyed going in and out at his leisure...and of course, free access to food ALL DAY!  Heaven!

On Saturday following the Fourth, we enjoyed the annual clam bake and Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop's.  As always, it was to die for!.  Now that I'm such a fan, I can't get enough!  I also decorated a cake for this event, but forgot to take any pictures!  (I know - crazy!)  This cake was a light blue buttercream-frosted chocolate cake with fondant clam shells to decorate the top.  Despite the heat, we enjoyed a fun day in the pool, stuffing our face, and watching the firework display from the backyard.

Sunday, July 1, 2012

The Crew

I watched the dogs for my parents this weekend.  Connor and Ceilee visited my house on the weekend and then Remy and I visited my parents' house for the rest of the week.  They're really becoming good friends and for the most part, get along very well.  Remy's still frequently using Connor as a chew toy and it seemed a little worse when he was in his own home.  All in all, a fun time!