Decked Out

BSG's fall project - staining our double decker!  Pretty sure this deck has never seen a coat of stain or sealant - so to say that it was time is an understatement! 
There he is...my BSG ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work! 

First you must clean. BSG went to rent a power washer and came home with this applicator and a scrub brush.  Apparently the power washer forces to much water into the wood and is not recommended.  Plan B is to get on your hands and knees and scrub.  *Labor Intensive*

As you can see, the wood was dry and in serious need of some TLC.

I was amazed at the amount of dirt, grime and green that came off with a little elbow grease.

 

We used Olympic Maximum Toner Waterproofing Sealant in Canyon Brown. 

You should see the deck 'bead up' when it rains...like a turtle waxed new car!
I'm very pleased with our choice of color...a very rich dark brown.

The finished product!!! 

baptized

Hi friends - sorry for being such a neglectful blogger! 
Several weeks ago Miss Rachel was baptized - BSG and I are honored to serve as her sponsors.  Unfortunately BSG's work schedule prevented him from attending. 
Boo. 
Stupid work.  :)

Baby Girl has some crazy good hair. 

My Mom is notorious for closing her eyes in every photograph that involves a flash...so I was super excited when Betsy captured these pics! 

Kids!?!  They keep life interesting, don't they?  This one is a big joker - loves to tease and pull pranks.

wine experience

While I was in Dallas last week, we enjoyed a wine tasting in which we learned about sipping and swirling. This is the wine maven - she does in home tastings and wine education.

Our gracious hostess, Sylvia.

This is me helping out...whoa, hold it steady, Brittany!

We tested 6 different wines and paired them with foods such as Parmesan cheese, salami and dark chocolate.  Amazing how food pairings really change the wines flavor.  So yummy!

Such a lovely evening with friends & Libby (under the table!)
Until we meet again, my sweets, xoxo.