Brian and Libby's Blog

Progress

What can I say? I am usually a glass half full kind of girl, but I've been what I have sugar-coated as "realistic" about all the home improvements on our list, citing two key enemies to progress: time and money. We obviously can't afford to do EVERYTHING we want to do at once and even if we could, when on earth would we do it?

Enter Brian's parents. They got to our house on Monday, and by the time I got home from work on Tuesday afternoon, all of the old landscaping we didn't want had been stripped from the front yard, the railings had been removed from the back deck, the lawn had been mowed, and the deck and patio had been powerwashed. These outdoor projects have made a world of difference in the appearance of the house, and I honestly didn't think we'd have a chance to tackle them until next spring. Not only is all of this done, but as of now, we have a beautiful new patio set on our newly stained deck (all set up with some torches and our grill to complete the picture), new lighting throughout the house (electrical work courtesy of Rev. Bill Howe) and a new A/C downstairs (whew, just in time for August). Brian's parents have been so, so helpful and generous this week and I am amazed at what we've (they've) accomplished.

Now when I drive home I see a beautifully landscaped front with beautiful black mulch (I never thought I would think mulch was so beautiful), a new wreath on our door (courtesy of Karen Polsinelli...thanks Karen!), and a nice little hanging plant on the front porch (can I tell you how long I have wanted my OWN hanging plant?!?)...it's a lovely sight! Yes, progress is good. Not to mention, we've had a lot of fun, even if it was shoveling 3 cubic yards of mulch in 92 degree heat for 2 hours. Now that's what I call bonding!

posted by Libby @ 8:59 AM