So, it's been a while

We've painted. A lot! I wanted to paint the living room a color besides the khaki/taupe that is and has been all over this house and the last 2 we've owned. I like that color, but I was ready for a change. I wanted a color similar to what was in the kitchen, which meant that if that color went to the living room, then the kitchen had to become something else entirely. So, off to Sherwin Williams. And again. And again. And about 3 more times. And a trip to Home Depot. All in the search of the perfect color. Thankfully, those samples they have now save us so much money. I immediately picked a color for the dining room - Sierra Redwood. The kitchen was done in 2 colors - Herbal Wash. I thought I had pictures, but apparently I don't know where they are.

The living room was another story. I think we tried about 5 different colors - and then sadly, went with the exact color that had been in the kitchen - Refined Gold. The first few days, I wasn't so sure. But now, I love it! It has really brightened up the room.

Eli loves to help "paint". It becomes much more mess, so it doesn't last very long, but he has a blast!

I had been so so sick while the living room was being painted - the worst sore throat I've probably ever had. It was terrible and the dr. had no help for me. But thankfully, I'm all better now. I didn't get to help much, but it still got done.

Last Friday was the Band picnic. It's always at a neat park right outside of town, right after school. They cook out and all band students, grades 6-12 are invited, so it's usually tons of kids and lots of parents. This year was no exception and my kids had a blast! We took Eli's friend, Beck and their friend Casen was there.

Claire loved swinging. She kept saying "weeeeee!!!"

They have a very large sand box and the kids loved building roads and digging holes. Claire didn't mind getting sand EVERYWHERE - she had a great time.

Here's Eli and Beck playing in the sand. It had rained for days before the picnic, but turned off sunny just in time for Friday.

This afternoon, Eli and Claire and I headed to Lyon College pond to feed the ducks. They are very, um, friendly ducks. Will come eat the bread right out of your hand, if you don't throw it at them fast enough. They will - ask Claire! We had a great time and hung out until Keith got done with after school percussion stuff and came to meet us. We walked around and searched for fish, turtles, and a couple of snakes. Came home, ate spaghetti and got my truck washed. A great day for all! Kids are in bed and I'm heading that way!