We signed a “decorator’s agreement” for our house, and this weekend we were allowed to start working on things we wanted to change. Number one on the to-do list was to build a fence, so we can let our dogs out. That is 99% done (still need to install the lock, but I didn’t have my drill bits with me, they’re in storage.) The fence looks fine, matches everyone else’s, and will serve it’s purpose. It’s a 6′ privacy fence (peek-a-boo or board on board style.) Nothing fancy, and fortunately it only required me digging two holes. It did make a bit of a muddy mess though. Hopefully it’ll rain soon and wash that away.

Additionally, a lot of painting took place. The middle level (living room, kitchen, dining area, foyer, and bump-out) is almost completely done. The living room and foyer are “arresting auburn” (deep dark red/maroon) and the kitchen is “Mexican sand” (tan). The bump out is going to be “spiced cider” (sort of an orange-ish terracotta color.) What is done so far looks really good and we’re happy with the color choices.

Now for a few notes about the weekend. I am sore and have blisters from my efforts. I’m taking today off from the gym because of it. Getting work done with a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old present takes at least 4 times as long as working without them around. Maybe 5 times longer, or even 10. Austin, God love him, put his hand in the wet paint and rubbed it on the carpet. So our “builder’s beige” carpet has a hint of maroon in one spot. We’re hoping the professional carpet cleaning will remove it. If not, an area rug is in order. It’s also much more fun and much easier to work on a house while you live there. We had nothing but toilet paper at the house, it’s better when there is food, clothing, tools, TV, Internet, etc. there. So of course I didn’t eat well, fast food and pizza. Oh well.

Oh, and I got a ticket. I pulled out of the parking lot (turned right onto the street) and there’s a traffic light 100 yards down the road. So within a few feet, I was in the right hand turn lane, but I needed to go straight. So I waited for an opening, put on my left hand signal, and got over when a guy let me in. Turns out I crossed the line between lanes when it was solid. In Virginia, this apparently qualifies as an “unsafe/improper lane change” which is a violation. Usually when the officer says “Do you know why I pulled you over?” I know exactly why, but not this time. This event has taken over the top spot for most absurd ticket I’ve ever heard of. Totally ridiculous