Aug 9

Getting Ready For School

This week we have been getting back to the school routine, and getting supplies too. Last weekend we took the boys to pick up their new glasses, and all three kids to buy new school supplies too.

The boys like their glasses. I think that Dylan looks super cute in his first pair.

Back to school shopping was a bit harrowing. The boys were none too pleased with shopping for school, but Agnes was extra excited. We came home with everything on three different lists, and even came in under budget too. I’ve got everything organized in the kitchen, and ready for the first day of school.

Last night was preschool enrollment for Agnes. We all went along with her, she was a little nervous. Once she spotted her teachers, and remembered the classroom, she lit up, ran around, and was already making friends. All of her paperwork was in order, and she will start preschool in September.

She was so excited all day for enrollment, she crashed out shortly after dinner. I think all of that preschool planning and excitement completely wore her out.

We still have a few weeks before school starts. I have the boy’s enrollment next week. I hope it goes well, and maybe they will cheer up a little if they spot some of their friends at enrollment too. I’m going to enjoy these last few days of lazy Summer while we have them.

 

Aug 6

Before & After: Old, New, and Grey

This project started quite awhile ago.

The clouds grew dark, and the hailstones fell fast. They crashed into our town breaking windows, smashing siding, and leaving a lot to be repaired.

Our little house was a mess.

We had damage to our windows, roof, siding, fence, garage, you name it a hailstone smashed it.

Our roof was repaired quickly, and then we were waiting on siding. We debated colors, made plan after plan, checked bid after bid, and finally we were ready to get going on the project.

The old siding was removed, and the house was ready for a new look.

I ventured outside a few times to see how the project was coming along.

I was so pleased, the crew was doing an amazing job, and our home was coming together beautifully.

The crew replaced one exterior section at a time, and the new siding was coming along quickly.

Yesterday the last piece of siding went up, and our new old house was complete.

I am overjoyed with the finished project!

I really appreciate all of the hard work, and eye for detail that the crew delivered. They gave us a home that looks like our home, and I am really proud of it.

Home sweet home!

Our little old home is shining in her new grey siding.

Aug 5

July’s Favorite Photos

July was a fun month, the weather was kind and cool, and we had fun celebrating the Fourth of July with friends and family. We started some big home projects, and enjoyed some quiet days too. Here are a few of my favorite photos from July.

My biggest kid always makes this face when he sees me take a picture.

Sometimes I catch him making this face.

My little big kid has enjoyed the Summer. He isn’t in too big of a hurry to go back to school.

Agnes is getting excited for preschool. She can’t wait to start school.

We celebrated the Fourth of July with our neighbors and all of our family too. That’s Uncle Rob with the kiddos. He is the best Uncle ever!

My littlest kids have a different imaginary game going every day. They love to play.

I finished up a big crochet project, I also made a bunch of little ones too.

I spent a lot of time in the kitchen.

The weather in July was unseasonably cool and comfortable.

Agnes was thrilled when she spotted this little visitor enjoying the cool clovers.

So much work happened on the house over the last week of July.

Here is a little peek at the progress.

We kept the pup busy with extra walks, and trips to the park while the siding was going up.

She hasn’t been too fond of the noise, and all of the extra people around. Her protective bark has been non-stop, but she is a good little guard dog.

She loved going to the park with the kids. It was a nice little walk from our house.

The big kitty has been pretty calm through the home renovations.

Once he finds a good spot for a nap, nothing stresses this big guy.

Aug 4

July’s Tasty Treats

July went by in a blur. I spent a lot of time in the kitchen. I made some family favorites, and tried a few new recipes too. Here’s what was going on in my kitchen….

Even though we are right in the middle of Summer, I missed Autumn. Nothing says Autumn comfort foods like Chicken and Noodles complete with Pumpkin Pie. I also made a big pan of Cookie Bars. The kids love them.

I made some Noodles from scratch too.

Our Autumn meal also included a big batch of Butter Rolls

When the Fourth of July Rolled around, I made a few pies.

I made an Apricot, in my Great-Grandmother’s pie tin.

I also made a Cherry pie inspired by Twin Peaks.

I think it was worthy of the Double R, and it has become James’ new favorite too.

This Summer I’ve been wanting to sneak in new recipes, and try a few new skills out. I decided to teach myself how to grill, and also how to make a mean batch of wings before Football season.

I accomplished my goals, and the family approved too.

I baked a ton of cookies. Some were for the crew working on our house, some were for my hubby’s workplace, some were for home, and somehow I used 10lbs of flour in a week.

I made a Strawberry Pie that nobody tried.

I also made some Mini Cherry Birthday Pies for a friend of ours.

I had a few leftover ingredients, so I made a batch of Cherry Pie Bars for us.

They were buttery, messy, and so delicious.

Lastly I tweaked a Bread-stick recipe, and made dinner rolls instead.

They were a big hit with the family. They are a quick side dish too.

Now that August has arrived, it is time to get to the store and stock up the kitchen. Dylan has put in a request for Chocolate Whoopie Pies, so I had better get to it.