So, Day 4 of our frenzied flip has come and gone and at least 40 man hours of yard clean up and maintenance were carried out in a quarter of that time.

We weeded, hoed, raked, mowed, trimmed, and chainsawed our way to a new level of self discovery. It can be overwhelming when you are standing looking up at such a huge task but the opposite is so true when, at the end of the day, you are able to gaze at such tangible results. It was a true testament to teamwork and camaraderie.

Only a couple of hours into our work day (Arlyn, kids, and myself), our former neighbors showed up with all the right tools, “Tim the Toolman Taylor” kind, and a can-do attitude. We  were a yard renovating force to be reckoned with!

We have attacked the yard first for a couple of reasons:  1) the weather is currently in our favor, 2) there is a short delay before the painting contractor can do what he does, and 3) it will provide a sense of accomplishment and inspiration as we pull into the driveway on the many days yet to come.

We ended the day with a bonfire and a semi-sentimental journey down memory lane. Tim rediscovered his first BB gun in the shed out back, Arlyn uncovered the kids’ small handprints set in paving stones under the weeping cherry tree, and the kids enjoyed the swing in the old oak tree once again. As night fell and the stars lit up the sky, we were serenaded by the frogs (or should I say inundated by the sound of the frogs) and I was reminded why we chose this spot to raise our family. Great memories!