Almost a Year!

So it's been almost a year since I've posted anything.

I could say I've been busy, and I have been busy. In fact, I've even completed a few more things on my list of 101 things. Mostly I've just been lazy, preoccupied and uninspired.

Time to get over it!

This summer we've finished the north and south flower beds, planted new trees, and painted the master bedroom. I've also read, shopped, napped and lunched with friends. Upcoming plans include painting the spare bedroom and cleaning out closets. It's been quite a productive summer.

How did I ever manage to squeeze in 40+ hours of work each week?

The North Garden

John and I have been working on the garden on the north side of the house. It is a project that is long-overdue.

Life has been getting in the way.

I thought I would add pictures of a few of my favorite plants.

Here is a hydrangea. It is called Light o' Day.

Pee-Wee is this guy's name. He's a hydrangea, too!

Hot Lips Turtlehead!

Some of you were wondering so here she is!

The flowers actually look like turtle heads if you use your imagination a little bit. Bees crawl into the "mouth" and completely disappear while they are doing their bee business. All you see are their little bee behinds.

The plant was larger when we bought it then Zoe sat on it and broke about a third off. :(

This is September Charm Anemone. I think I'm in love!

We planted three to hide the ugly window well cover.

This is what my husband does with the camera.

He thinks he's funny.

Back To School

Have you smelled new crayons lately? I highly recommend you buy a box of Crayolas at the store.

Even if you don't need them.

Open the box, admire the fresh tips, and smell. Don't, however, eat the glue. There's always one kid that eats the glue.

Oh...and there's this...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cNDSPutas8&NR=1

He Was a Good Pig

Grayson went to guinea pig heaven today.

It was time.

I Love These Monkeys!

They belong to our good friends, Tom & Karen.



I whisper in her ear and tell her, "you're my favorite!"

I helped her elbow the boys out of the way at the 4th of July parade so we could get candy!



Both girls are huge fans of princesses.

We've had many discussions about how the princess needs to be smart...

...if she wants to rule the kingdom.

The Perennials

The flowers are growing!



I'm so thrilled about the coneflowers. They didn't do very well the first few seasons but seem to be taking off this summer.




I didn't realize the black-eyed Susan would get so big. I planted some in the front bed but will need to move them to the north bed this fall.

Speaking of the north bed, I began the preparation process by killing the grass with Round-Up. Now...which plants should I choose? Hmmmm....russian sage for sure, the transplanted black-eyed Susans, and purple coneflowers...and maybe more yellow yarrow...grasses...

John can't wait to dig the holes!

Courage, Bravery, Spirit, Bravado, Guts

Or is it impudence, audacity, insolence, cheek?



Apparently he figures if he can survive the neighbor's lawn mower...



a few coddled pets aren't a big deal.