Projects and Parties...

Over the last couple of weeks, and especially this past week, we have had our share of rain, for which we are thankful, but, we are glad to finally see the sunshine.

However...before the rains came Mark was able to get our

patio extension complete.

Julian and his

helper came with the big equipment and

dug out the grass and dirt and

carried it off.  This left Mark a nice clean

and level area to start laying the pavers.  He worked for several days and his finished project was

was looking really nice across the back and

up the side.  When he was finished, we had several pavers left. So, we decided to

,

clean up the front flowerbed.  Wow,

what a difference it made.

While Mark was been busy with his projects, I had one of my own going.  I signed up for a mosaic glass class at the Stained Glass studio in McAllen.  At the first class, we learned about cutting glass, choosing glass colors, designing patterns, and

starting our projects.  Then, our assignment for the week was to

continue cutting the glass, gluing, and

completing the project to this point,

When we returned to class this week, it was time to pick out the grout color and

get busy.

Soon, I was well into

the concept of this step.  With it complete and dry, it was then time to start

removing the grout and shining the glass.  This was quite a process, but, when I was finished, I was

surprised and excited at what I was seeing.

Now, I just have to let it dry for a couple of days, then it will be time for glaze.  I had a blast and already have another project or two in mind!

In addition to our projects, we have also had a party or two.

There was the February

Ladies Luncheon.  We had lots of yummy salads.  I was glad to have

Sylvia Avery join our group for the day.  She and Glynn are visiting here in the RGV for a month.

After a great lunch, we enjoyed

floral demo by a representative from Hobby Lobby.   What a

talented young lady.

We also had our first, but not last Retama Arts Fair.  We enjoyed

the many talents of

our Retama

residents.

The Art's Fair was just another reason for the community to

party!  But, then again, we look for any reason to party...like...even when

Niles and Sue became official Texans!

So, as you can see, between the projects and the parties, we are certainly keeping busy and enjoying every minute!