Home Improvements - Outdoors

C + I have been doing a lot of home improvements this summer. Although we are currently renting, we are really starting to make our house feel like a home. C and our dads put together a shed for our backyard. Since this house had the garage converted to a great office and dining room, we need somewhere to store C's "manly stuff".

Our backyard is big and we weren't sure what do to with it. I have been searching high and low for patio furniture that I like, but won't break the bank. We came across this turquoise set. Being my favorite color, I liked it immediately. Far from what I was originally wanting (I like West Elm's "spa-like" furniture), but it will do for now. And it was CHEAP! thanks to Garden Ridge Pottery.

We found out that when it rains it pours at Jalna (the name of our street). So it was no wonder where the water sits, we do not have any grass. C solved this by building a patio in these areas. We really like the new stones as they prevent us from always walking in mud on the way into our home. Thanks mom + dad for the donation of bricks. We really appreciate it.

Photos: Summer 2009, The Guys; Casey w/ Hat; R Relaxing

Rest In Peace GranDale!

Casey's Grandfather, Dale Clemmer, passed away on July 1st. Although we knew it was coming (he had been in Hospice for a few weeks prior to his passing), it was still a sad shock to hear the news. Fourth of July weekend was filled with lots of love, tears and laughter as Casey and I joined the rest of the "Clemmer Clan" in honoring a great man, father and grandfather.

Casey and I drove to Midland, TX over Memorial Day weekend and, in hindsight, I am so glad we took the time to go visit GranDale in the hospital while he was coherent and full of life. Making the 8 hour drive again within a month was more bearable riding in the same car as Heath and April. As soon as we arrived, we were surrounded by cousins, uncles and aunts from far and wide. Although I know it was a hard time for everyone for their own reasons, Casey and I enjoyed hanging out with all the family.

Casey's Gran, Helen, was a fan of peach! She had peach curtains, a peach couch and peach clothes. Before leaving town, Casey and I ran to Marshall's to find a suit for him to wear to the funeral. Gran must have been watching down on us because as soon as we walked into the men's department, we saw these blazers. They were a huge hit at the viewing amongst family and friends that knew Helen and Dale well.

GranDale is now enjoying Heaven with his wife, Helen, who passed only 4 years ago. Rest In Peace GranDale & Welcome Home!

Photos: July 2009, Clemmer Clan