Hammer in One Hand, Cocktail in the Other
A few years ago, I bought my first house — and honestly, that moment still feels huge. There’s something about signing those papers and realizing, yep, this is mine that hits differently. Since then, I’ve been remodeling it bit by bit — one room, one wall, one paint-splattered weekend at a time.
I’ve learned how to do a lot myself (nothing like YouTube University and a good swear word), but I also know when to call in a pro. I’ve patched drywall, tiled a backsplash, and learned the hard way that “quick projects” are never actually quick. This summer, I’m hoping to wrap up the last few upgrades — a couple of rooms, maybe some outdoor work, and a whole lot of crossing things off my list.
Of course, it’s not all work. I’ve got a few trips lined up too — the beach, the lake, a wedding in Paris (yes, actual Paris), and a few low-key day trips just to clear my head. I’m a sucker for quiet places where I can breathe — give me an empty stretch of sand over a packed boardwalk any day. Emerald Isle is one of my favorite beaches: soft waves, no crowds, and zero drama. Paris, on the other hand, will be a whirlwind — champagne, wedding chaos, and probably me getting lost at least once.
Summer always brings the family circus too — graduations, cookouts, birthdays, endless get-togethers. It’s that time of year when every weekend seems to belong to someone else’s calendar, but I secretly love it. It makes the quieter moments feel earned.
This year feels different, though — brighter, busier, but in the best way. After being so careful during COVID last summer, it finally feels good to be out there again — living, laughing, traveling, and making my house feel like a home. I’m ready for warm nights, good company, and maybe a little sawdust in my hair.
Hammer in one hand, cocktail in the other. That’s the vibe.
