what's been happening around the house this summer...

Wow!  Time flies when we're having fun!  Ok,  so I don't know how much fun we're having,  but time definitely is flying.  
I can't believe that it is already the end of July and I am on day 108 of being smoke free.
Looking backwards and wondering where time went... 
The story of my life..

It takes me so long to do these "catch up" posts because I never know where to start.   Do I give a generic post,  do I catch it up on everything that I missed, or do I just pick up like I never left....
I can never decide.

This time I will share the things that have been consuming most of my time.

Lounging around ~  drinking coffee and enjoying great books.

I wish.

Truth is that this book has been sitting here for months waiting for me to pick it up. 

While Paul has been working most days,  I have been keeping myself busy with the house.  As retirement gets closer and closer, we are getting the house in shape for when the time comes to sell it.

As much as I say that I love old houses...

they are a lot of work!!!

And this old house is in need of a lot.

Our house exterior is in the middle of a makeover and Sheeeeesh , it's been tough work.    A little at a time,  I have made my way around the deck, foundation and siding with my paintbrush and roller.

The little yellow house is now a dark honey wheat color.

I replaced some of the rotted wood along the foundation and

added shelves and ledges for flower pots.

 Its all starting to come together and I am very happy with the changes so far.  A new front door and awning should be hung by the end of the month...  and then later in October we are scheduled to get replacement windows.

When I am not working around the outside I have been taking time to enjoy the little things.

..... Like a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

Taking Stanley on the boat.

Taking care of my baby pumpkins.

Creating.

Kissing this old lady.

A lot.

And of course,  getting my board wet whenever time and the weather permits.

While there are struggles and deterrents along the way.... 

 Life is good!

and I personally,  am trying to make the best of it.

I hope that everyone is having a great summer.

I will be back with an update soon.