The weekend view is looking like a HOT one.
Happy weekend everyone. How is the weather where you are? I know it is hot all over the place this week- and it has been in the triple digits for several days here already- and there are a few more in the forecast before a break.
And I am pretty glad I had the change to get allllll these big peonies photographed before the heat moved in. They didn’t last too much longer after this photo was taken.
Heat Wave
With those hot temperatures- come hot everything. In the house, in the yard, in the barn. We have been keeping an eye on the chickens and goats to make sure they aren’t getting overwhelmed with heat. The chickens are fluffy and full of downy soft feathers- but thankfully they don’t seem to be too bothered by the heat. We did dip them in cool water when we saw them all panting – which they actually really seemed to enjoy.
Project Progress
I shared those antique pieces that I found recently- and what I had in mind for how to transform them while treating for those beetles. Yesterday we tackled the first layer of stripper and the difference is incredible already. The raw wood is showing up beautifully- though we are finding more issues .
There is a spot where a hinge is that has wood that basically broken off and that has no structure behind it. This was one of the things that the beetles can do if they really enjoy the wood. They can eat the bulk of the wood and then it is not structurally safe. So far- the rest of the wood all seems to be good and is sturdy so my husband is going to try to fill and patch the area – rather than replace the board – will let you know how it comes together.
Rattan & Bamboo Love
I am working on a post about a recent obsession- bamboo and rattan pieces. I ordered a pair of charming rattan chairs for the garden that just arrived – and I am in love with how they look and how comfortable they are. And a recent find basket has also become a favorite. Since this is not the first time I have been on the obsession fence with rattan and bamboo- I am putting together a few examples of how you can incorporate those beautiful pieces and keep the French country look we all love. These bamboo chairs below are some of my favorites- so comfortable.
Hot in the Garden
Speaking of the garden and the heat… the heat and intense sun power has done a number on the garden. We are watering several times a day and have been covering things with a sun protective cloth- but it is really scorching the leaves and blooms on a lot of the plants. I did a bit of a garden wander the other morning with coffee in hand on Instagram- most of the more shady garden area is doing well – it is the roses in the direct sun that are not happy.
Steam Mopping
It happened. Our regular vacuum mop pooped out. So, off it goes and I went online to find something new. I decided after a bit of research to go with a steam mop- some of my friends who have hardwood have them and I also love that you can use them on tile and grout. I just cleaned the hardwood floors today- and love how they turned out. I am going to clean the tile and tackle the grout tomorrow- I will let you know how that goes. This is the one I bought if you are looking for one. (affiliate) I like that you can take the steam off machine off and use it several ways, and that it has a grout tool with this one also.
Last Minute Fathers Day Gift Ideas
It is Dad’s day tomorrow- happy Fathers Day to the dads and dad figures out there!! Also, a few ideas for last minute gifts.
Gift Card: A favorite- let them choose what they want- and you can do a virtual gift card in just a few minutes.
BBQ Grill master tools- they have these in all the grocery stores right now it seems and so they are easy to pick up and tie with a bit of twine to gift.
Nuts or other treats- Always a hit- something snack-able. If you are mailing a gift to dad or celebrating on a different day- this one looks delicious.
A magnetic wrist band that holds all the screws, nails, drill bits? I mean- if you have a handy guy in your house- you know how they are always looking for those extra things they need which means, we are always looking for that certain bit they need. I am ordering it. haha.
Coming up
Next week-
I will update you on the furniture progress- and fingers crossed that bleached look turns out okay.
A simple garden foraged floral using things you might not usually think of to mix in those arrangements.
And summer backyard entertaining ideas- adding ambiance and charm to your backyard with a fire pit area.
Happy Saturday all.
franki Parde says
Summer came out w/a vengeance!! Early morning to “bucket water” new plantings…fingers crossed no “bad weather!” Good wishes!! franki
Patty Clancy says
The heat has been crazy thE last few weeks In Notthern CA. We live in Grass Valley in the Sierra foothills. It goes back and forth between Hot and cold! My plants dont know what to do!! I dont either!!
Kim says
Courtney, did you leave a link for the wrist band my husband would love that. waiting patiently to see how the furniture turns out. Love your blog
Kim
Courtney says
So sorry! It didn’t link for some reason- here you go: https://amzn.to/3gJcFF3
Aussie Jo says
So lovely
Barbara C says
Courtney, I am looking forward to how your steamer worked on tile and grout. We have natural stone floors and they could use a good steam cleaning, if I can find a steamer that really works. Thanks!
Nancy Pacitto says
I bought that steam mop six months ago, i wonder how I ever lived without it. I love it. It takes just a bit of time to get used to it. But it works like a charm.
Diana says
The flowers are beautiful and your chicken is pretty cute too !
Karen B. says
Summer heat is no friend of most plants. In Southern California, we’ve been very warm for a few days but not ongoing blazing temps, I hope you can manage your garden and preserve your beautiful plants.
Karen