Defintion of Lintel

This definition from the Wiki best describes the manner in which we are using them.
Lintel Decorative use:
The use of the lintel form (rather than as a construction technique) has been employed in the architecture of many cultures over time. In non-classical architecture a lintel was frequently used for purely ornamental purposes, having no structural function.

Lintels

Last weekend Stan and I were able to complete 3 new lintels on the front of our house. I did the priming and painting and Stan did all the hard work - measuring each window, making the lintel from scratch to fit each window perfectly and finally getting on the ladder and securing them to the house :) I think he did a great job. I was a bit nervous about how this would look, but as usual Stan knew what he was doing. We still need to paint the trim to match the lintel but otherwise I think those 3 are close to being done.

Before with NO lintel...

After with lintel...

Alone time...

Stan left today for a long trip through Asia and Australia. I know we will miss each other greatly...He is my BEST friend and I love him dearly, the house feels so empty when he's not here, Home is NOT home without him. So, what do I do? Okay, I have to admit, the first night he is away I have a bit of a routine, I indulge in a long HOT bath, lots of "emo" music (as Stan calls it) as loud as I want and some vino to cap off the night.

I know that Stan and I would both agree - alone time can be very healthy for relationships, but again, I have to admit, after one night, I miss him and I wish he was coming home sooner than later.

hmmm...

Okay, we have been thinking about changing the lintels on the exterior of the house.

I know what your thinking!...Wow this is exciting and seriously - WHAT a great blog entry!

I will be honest, I was getting some pressure for some updates - who knew blogging came with such demands. Let me tell you - when you don't have kids or pets you REALLY need to look for material.

My husband came up with this design. He built this on the new widow that he installed in the kitchen...what do you think? I thought he did a pretty good job but we have LOTS of windows...This could be a big job.

What's new?

I've been online checking out friends and families blogs and realized that I've not updated our blog in sometime AND I have not finished the Samantha UK Visit blog...where does the time go?

We are back in the US again, returned 2 weeks ago - early this time due to meetings and such. It's good to be home and focus on the house, garden and so on. We've been busy with new plants, new flowers, new window sashes and lentils. Everything is coming together nicely.

Last weekend our neighbors Marek and Amy hosted a neighborhood cookout. Marek is famous for his Goulash. This is NOT like the goulash we Minnesotans think of - Not even close. Marek makes this in a huge copper pot over the fire pit for hours. It's a mixture of secret ingredients including vegetables, meats and spices, but most importantly do not forget the paprika...not just any paprika mind you. We had a great time and the food was Wonderful as always. I've attached a few photos from our fun evening!

Johnathon enjoying the pre-dinner entertainment...Jeff's (the neighbor on the other side) new bubble machine.

App's and chat's before dinner

Marek attending his goulash

Stan ready for fun!

Ready to serve and the final product....yum yum

Amy and Marek dog's Ruby and Zuska - we see this outside our side door often...hmmm...do you think someone has been giving them treats?

In other news:

Alright this may sound geeky, but I did invest in the new iPhone3G - can you say "AWESOME" - I love this little gadget, SO much more than just a phone. If it could only superimpose powder and lipstick I would no longer have the need for a purse - Everything I need is right in this little powerhouse. Kristi gives this a Thumbs UP.

Samantha's Visit...work in progress

Samantha and I were lucky enough to find Lord Chewstoke visiting Corfe as well.

Cutest Corfe Castle Couple

Rich and Nichole took this great photo during our trip to Corfe Castle. Thanks guys! I really love this photo :)