Weekend Hangout at Duke Manor Farm Vol 38: Summer Projects, Farm Life & Fresh Inspiration
Weekend Hangout at Duke Manor Farm
Welcome to the weekend hangout at Duke Manor Farm. I am sharing some updates on home projects, farm life ( the twins are seniors!!) and fresh summer inspiration. I am glad you are here!
Life around Duke Manor Farm
This week has been full of simple joys that make summer so sweet. From early morning walks with my hubby (they just paved our road and it makes walking so much better) to hanging with the kids when they get home from school. We’ve been soaking up these last golden days before fall begins to show up.

The twins just started their senior year (how did that happen so fast?!). I am beginning to do all the senior parent things (yearbook ads, senior pics etc) and getting emotional along the way. We had a photographer come to the property last week to capture some beautiful shots of the kids. Jacob competed in the National High School fishing tournament and placed 19th out of 252 boats, and Lily ran her first Cross Country Race of the season this past weekend. She was injured for part of the season last year, so I am so excited to see her get back out there and run.

Projects I’ve Been Working On
I’m still tackling the boys’ bathroom project (slow and steady), and I finally painted my office. I can’t wait to share room reveal photos with you soon.
If you’re also in project mode, here are a few quick project ideas you can tackle:
- Add fresh wood accents to a wall (think wainscoting or shiplap)
- Restyle a bookshelf with greenery and seasonal decor
- Refinish an old piece of furniture for an instant refresh
This Week’s Style Showcase
Here’s some fresh inspiration from this weeks Style Showcase:
- DIY Sea Fan Wall Art – A beautiful, breezy project for coastal style lovers.
- Creative Ways to Use Wallpaper – From backsplashes to accent walls.
- Cozy Breakfast Nooks – Perfect for slow mornings.
Budget Ideas for Older Homes
I’ve been thinking about how even small updates can make a big difference in older homes. Whether it’s new light fixtures, refreshed hardware, or a fresh coat of paint, these updates breathe new life into spaces without breaking the bank.

I’ll share more about this soon (and maybe even hint at a big decision 👀).
A Little Something Extra
I am rewatching Gray’s Anatomy….all 23 seasons. Years ago when it first came out, I would commit to watching in every Thursday and then stopped, maybe at season 11? Are you a fan?
I am getting ready to watch Sullivan’s Crossing and The Hunting Wives. Have you seen them?
And if you’re shopping, this faux cashmere throw blanket from Amazon is trending right now and perfect for transitioning your home into fall.
I met up with my middle school bestie this week, who recently moved to North Georgia. We have not seen or talked (other than on social media) to each other 30 years. How wonderful it was to see her again and connect. It’s like no time had past. We have plans to get together again soon.

What’s Coming Up Next
Next week I’ll be sharing fall decor prep tips—simple ways to start layering in the cozy without going full-on pumpkins just yet.
Don’t miss Style Showcase on Tuesdays here on the blog.
Until then, I hope your weekend and week ahead is filled with simple joys, and maybe even a little project inspiration.

This post may contain affiliate links for products that Duke Manor Farm uses, suggests or recommends to its readers.


