Thanks to many who voted for my top in Rae's contest last week. It was so (!) fun to be part of--I think I came in 4th or 3rd in that round, but you'd think I'd won the whole darn thing judging by my grin. I told Charlie it's because it was something I did just for me, and nice people gave me nice feedback. And I like nice--it makes me very happy, so thank you again.
I hope everyone had a great Mother's Day. Mine was lovely. It was the day after the party so I basically spent the day trying to recover. And I'm still working on it.
The good news is that I have lots to write about because I spent most of last week puttering around the house, getting it party ready. And as you might guess, it was DIY all the way. The bad news is, I was a bad blogger and so rushed for time that I took very few "before" pictures. But I'll try to post some "after" pictures this week of all the projects I tackled: new couch pillows, deck redo, painted flower pots, refinished patio furniture, refinished dresser and table, guest room curtains, and so, so much more. It was crazy. But the party was a surprise birthday celebration for my brother, who turns the big 4. 0. this week. And it was really fun to host. But like I said, I am wiped. Here he is is getting greeted by all the guests hiding in the dining room. Isn't he a cutie? Love him...
We had a great group of guests who fit right in with our family, in that they showed up with appetites and were more than happy to help out with the vat of sangria (I am trying to remember what we ended up throwing in there. It was delish.) After such a big night, I was very happy to take it easy for Mother's Day. My aunt and uncle were visiting from California and stayed with us a couple of days after the party--they are amazing folks and we really enjoyed getting to spend some time with them. The weather was quite nice so we went for a picnic at a garden park.
This is one of my favorite pictures of the day...
I also received some yummy truffles and two sewing books. And maybe a bit of a cold but hopefully not as the half marathon is this weekend--yikes. All in all, a very good day indeed. I will post more details when my right hand uncrumples from the dreaded perma-claw I have from hours of of spray painting.
xoxo, Sandra