Happy Birthday, Pops

Dear Pops,

These steps are lonely without you. They're the perfect place for a birthday celebration. All kinds of fun could be had here.

I wish you were here so that you could pull up a seat next to me. I've got you a space saved right here, see? Then we could laugh and play together.

Won't be long now, though, and then we can go for a boat ride together. Mommy says you've got a life jacket that's just my size. I can hardly wait.

I hope you have a happy birthday. I sure do love you.

XOXO,
Little Man

Mirabelle's Face Lift

If you were to walk the perimeter of our home and look up at the soffits, this is what you would see on all three levels of our home.

Water damage. Rotted wood. Cracked paint. Everywhere.

We have a hidden gutter system on our home that has eroded over the years and has caused serious damage to the wood underneath. So today the construction crew began the month-long project of repair. (Notice the entire soffit that's been ripped off from the second level.)

This is one of the biggest investments we've made in Mirabelle in our effort to "rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated." Thank goodness all the work being done is OUTSIDE this time and that we don't have to live in a mess. I think she will look fantastic once her face lift is complete. I'll come back and post "after" pics when they've finished the work.

What Have I Done?

I just signed up for a Facebook account. All so that I could get a coupon. Long story. Bottom line is that in the half hour I've had the account, I've already decided I want out. What have I done?

A Weekend of Festivals

This weekend we hit a couple of local festivals that were happening downtown.

The first was the Annual Chili Cook-off Festival. I sure wish someone could tell me who decided that a chili festival should take place in May - and why. Especially when the temperatures are closing in on 90º. I like my chili as much as the next person, but in May? I vote they move it to the fall!

It was so hot that Alex sweat most of the day. Poor little guy. He loves the outdoors, but even this tested his limits.

After the chili fest, we went to the 30th Annual Strawberry Festival. Now that's what I'm talking about!

I wish I had gotten a picture of our giant strawberry shortcake, but it was eaten so fast that I didn't even have time to get out the camera.

Little Man played in the park while we listened to live music. I let him borrow my hat so that he could have some shade from the sunshine.

On our way back to the car we stopped off at the local farmers market to check out the fresh produce and plants.

Little Man had been a real trooper, but he was ready for his nap. And some cool air! Mommy and Daddy were, too!

Happy Birthday, Pop Pop

Happy Birthday, Pop Pop! 

I love you so big, and I can't wait to see you again soon! I hope you have fun on the golf course today. Make sure you blow out all the candles on your birthday cake so your wish comes true.

Love,

Little Man