Summer Lovin

Oh what a nice day! This weather is beautiful. Highs in the upper 70s in July. No humidity. Seriously, it doesn't get any better than this.
The kids helped with some yard work today. They actually enjoy laying mulch. Who knew! The flower bed is really coming along compared to the beginning of last summer.
And then add the work we did to the outside of the house this spring; looks like a different house. We scrimped and saved to do the work. We even had a contest to see who could save the most money, Bart or myself. We got real and even got separate savings accounts for this. It worked! We were able to do everything we planned, and more, within our budget we had set. (I won by the way.)
We started with a new roof. The old roof looked like my 10 year old did it. It was worn and really dated the house. We went with a standing seam metal roof. I wasn't so keen on it when we chose, but after some research, we realized it would provide us with the comfort of knowing we probably wouldn't have to replace it within our lifetime. The metal was a little more expensive than a standard shingle roof, but the longevity of it will pay off in the long run. I'm glad we did the metal, now. It looks great and really makes a huge difference. We were also able to swing new soffits, fascia and gutters. Then we finished off with three new exterior door and a storm door. Our little fixer upper is coming along and I couldn't be happier with the way it is turning out.
The kids and I also enjoyed a nice, long walk with the neighbors tonight. They were heading out while we were outside playing and we tagged along. Up the road, downtown and back home. It was great little starter walk. We finished off the evening with a competitive evening of dodge ball. Momma came out on top!
I can't wait to start off this holiday weekend. I am thinking right now it will include the races tomorrow and fireworks at the reservoir the following night. The husband is on vacation after that. Finally, some much needed family time.
We would like to wish our great country a wonderful day of celebration and say thanks to God for allowing us to live here. Everyone stay safe and enjoy your cookouts, fireworks and friends and family.
Happy 4th of July