Spring is Definitely Here

On Saturday morning, I captured the beauty of the Irises in these photos, reminding me of nature's grace.

Adorned in their finest for a radiant Sunday that is coming...

I was amazed to see them all bloom in vibrant Easter colors on the same day.

All of creation lifts its voice in praise to the Lord.

So, how's everyone doing? Loving the Spring vibes? Hope you’re all good!

Currently, there is a cold circulating in the area that has been particularly severe for some individuals. My husband contracted this cold, and it has persisted for about a week; however, I have managed to avoid it. 

Oh my goodness, it has been a whirlwind of events and activity lately! Too much for a blog post. So instead, I will embrace today as the fresh start of a new week, filled with new opportunities and the promise of new adventures.

Spring has officially arrived, signaling the time for essential maintenance tasks. As we prepare for the onset of scorching temperatures that can often reach 105+ degrees, it’s crucial to tackle outdoor chores before the heat makes heavy labor challenging. Spring is the best time for that! Unlike many other states that report a feels-like-temperature, here they report just one.  Last July, for instance, we reached a staggering 119 degrees, (real temperature)  which illustrates the intensity of our summer climate here in Redding.  Prioritizing maintenance now will help ensure a more comfortable and manageable summer season. You know, sitting under the water misters, sipping an icy cold drink. 

Last year, we encountered issues with procrastination, which ultimately delayed several projects that we have to get done this year! Once the heat set in, we found ourselves unable to tackle significant tasks such as painting the exterior or hauling in rocks. Learning from this experience, we are committed to being proactive this year to ensure we do not repeat the same mistakes. We are already taking steps to stay on track with our plans. We are hoping all the heavy-duty outside maintenance will be completed by the end of June; earlier would be preferable. 

This isn’t my photo, and I’m not planning to climb up a ladder to take a photo. 

Last week, we undertook an installation project for new gutters and downspouts in specific areas of our house. We also added leaf filters to prevent debris buildup AND eliminating the need for my husband to climb a ladder for maintenance, which always made me nervous. 

Our patio roof and gutter system.

After three years of abundant blessings from God (rain), we knew we had to fix those gutters. Also, dry rot was beginning. 

So we went from that 👆

To this!  👆

What an improvement! 

Maintaining a home can be fulfilling, and recent updates like a new gutter can excite you. Okay, I'm weird. Good property stewardship is essential, and I learned this value from my father, who was always meticulous about maintaining our home to prevent wear and tear and rot.

In addition, we plan to paint the exterior, specifically the trim. The main body of the house is in excellent condition and will require its annual power washing to keep it looking its best.

So yeah, I'm excited. 

This morning, I dashed out to get my hair trimmed. I came home to start the laundry, and I swept the hardwood floors and shook out the hall runners and rugs. I don't usually use these rugs in the hot months, but with Laydee and her arthritis disability, The Vet recommended they would help her not slip, give her a better footing, and prevent a broken hip, and at her age, it would be the end. 

So I had to dig out all the rugs - I want to get some new ones...

Laydee's condition shows variability; at times, she moves around well, while at other times, she struggles and drags herself using her two front legs. She's a real trooper though and is in good spirits. The injection is effective for about three weeks, relieving her. The main thing is she remains happy and does not experience the pain she once did, which significantly enhances her quality of life as she ages. However, it's uncertain how much longer she will be with us—perhaps a year or two at most, after all, she is twelve years old. 

I’m doing my best to be there for her, cherishing every single moment we have together and showering her with love, bear hugs, and lots of kisses. 

I owe it to her because she has thoroughly blessed my life. 

I am not a fair-weather pet owner!

Meanwhile, the flowers continue to bloom...