Weekend Update

The long weekend was good - mostly. I spent about 8 1/2 hours on Saturday looking at concrete issues on the property. The size of the problem is daunting and overwhelming! As with any large project, we need to get a handle on the total effort and cost, then break it down to manageable tasks. Still, we (the Assn.) may be screwed. At least in the short term anyway.

On a happier note, Mark went with me to Lowe's to pick up my new grill! The grill is my birthday present from Susan. Its cool - 50,000 BTU of power heating 660 inches of cooking space. So, it is WAY more grill than I need! We'll have fun with it this summer and, if it doesn't improve my grilling skills, at least I'll look good using it! :-)

On Sunday, the whole crew went to Sears to get a family picture done. Mom set it up so we could get a family pic before Mark heads to Texas. I thought the photos were pretty good, but was a little disappointed that there were shadows behind our heads in the family pic. Although, maybe I shouldn't be surprised - as there were some challenges with the photo center staff. It was good to see everyone though. After the pics, we went to Brio for a late lunch. I enjoyed the time with everyone, but I kind of messed up Susan's plans with Megan for shopping. :-(

Sunday evening was good too. It was our first evening this summer hosting friends on our deck. James, Megan and Mark joined us for drinks, music from the Boom Bucket Mom and Dad got me for Christmas. The boys enjoyed some Cuban cigars and enjoyed the evening air. Cigars outside in the summer are awesome! We really enjoy sharing the deck with friends in the summer.

On Monday we had a small 'good luck' cookout for Mark. It was the first time cooking for guests on the grill and no one died so I consider it a success. We had a little rain, so we moved the party to the garage and watched the rain and enjoyed the breeze. It was really pretty comfortable sitting out there. I hope Mark enjoyed it and we really wish him GOOD LUCK in Dallas!!