House Spruce Up

As much as we adored the duct tape holding some of our stair ballisters together, we decided it was time for a change.  The kids were absolutely thrilled when I told them what I wanted them to do -- kick out a ballister.  I assured them this was a once in a lifetime opportunity.  :)

So, even though these have broken numerous times at the slightest bump, they kicked,

they pulled,

 and then Ted kicked and made one hit my dining room table which caused them to laugh and me to glare so he quickly ran away while the kids continued to laugh,

 and kick,

 until everyone successfully took out a ballister. 

 Then the staircase transformed to this.

 Then to this.

 Until it looked like this.  Now if only the walls were painted a different color.......  :)

 Soon after we began working on our backyard.  This is how it started.

 Then came the destruction of which Sam was happy to be a part.

 And this is where we are now.  Man oh man.  Those beginning pictures don't look so bad to me anymore.  :) 

I decided to document this transformation because it has really been a pain having our backyard out of commission.  The plan is to sink the trampoline, flatten the grass, cover the patio, and add some trees for some increased shade and privacy from the bluff and the trail.  So far we have a lot of dirt, dust, intense heat, and a rock chuck living in the water feature.  Not quite the dream we had in mind yet, but we still are hoping for the best.  Oh, and if you want a rock chuck of your very own in YOUR yard, let us know.  The trap is set and we will deliver.  :)