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Lazy Holiday Weekend

I would like to petition for 3-day work weeks permanently, please. We've had a wonderful four days at home, and it would be nice if we could just do this all of the time. (Think anyone would go for that??)

We've spent the better part of this long weekend at home...purging G's massive toy pile, and then Scott and I working on painting G's room. Both kids think the color is boring, while I think it's a practical backdrop that allows them to change out their bedding and decor for years to come.

Regardless, this greige color is a million times better than the matte builder cream color that we've been living with for five years. You know, the one that shows every single mark and ding in the wall? The one that you can't clean? Yeah, our walls look a little rough, so we're taking care of that with fresh paint, room by room!

Love the clean look of newly painted walls...this shows a nice contrast between the white closets and the new greige color in G's room


Next up is a HUGE purging of Ava's belongings. She has so much stuff. She's a natural hoarder, and our guest room is now filled with half of her belongings while we're prepping her room for the next painting session. After we've seen everything that she owns, we need to implore you that if you are a regular gift giver to Ava (birthday, Christmas, etc.) please think twice about giving her a physical item (clothes are ok, though!) Experience gifts (like museum, movies, etc.) are a better choice as it allows us to make memories as a family, and it doesn't take up any space.

We all need to refocus and cut back on the amount of "stuff" in our lives. I was so proud of G and how helpful, and non-complain-y he was while we went through his toys. He was excited to donate so much stuff, and was happy to hear that the toy shopping cart that he and Ava have used for years, went to a little girl who was going to be so excited to use it (we donated through our local neighborhood site.) That's the kind of attitude that I am so happy to see in him...giving and understanding that it's okay to let things go. (Again, I could use some practice with my own possessions as well...my son will be a good teacher for me!)

That working bit aside, we've had a fun holiday weekend...we watched fireworks with the neighbors, and last night went out for an early birthday dinner for Scott (where the other family at the hibachi table paid for our meal, unexpectedly! And, we didn't order a cheap meal...Scott and I both had filet, lobster, and shrimp!) It was a generous gesture and one that was truly appreciated.

Getting ready to watch fireworks (we have a perfect view of the Apple Valley city fireworks from our neighborhood...love not having to drive anywhere to watch them!)


Ava and G went to the park together...and there was no fighting. Amazing!


My flowers are doing incredibly well right now...love the new wall hanging with daisies on my front porch!


Seeing my lilies bloom each year is a thrill!


We've got a new backyard mister for the kids to play with (perfect for these hot Minnesota summer days) and we're looking forward to celebrating Scott's birthday with my parents tonight.

Happy #43 to my other half! We love you, Scott!

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