Summer at Duke Manor Farm
Summer has always been my favorite season here at Duke Manor Farm. The days seem a little longer, the projects seem a little bigger, and somehow there never seems to be enough hours to fit everything in.
Between tackling a few home improvements (including laying 4 pallets of new mulch), spending time with the kids before everyone heads off on new adventures, cheering on Jacob at fishing tournaments, and simply enjoying quiet evenings overlooking the lake, it’s been one of those summers I’ll always remember.
Side note: I don’t know what instantly transforms a space better, paint or mulch.
Here’s a little peek at what we’ve been up to lately.
Giving the Guest House Kitchen a Fresh New Look
One of my favorite projects this summer was giving the guest house kitchen a simple refresh.
Instead of a complete renovation, I focused on affordable updates that completely changed the feel of the space. The most obvious updates were painting the walls and cabinets. I shared the before and after here.
Sometimes it’s amazing what paint, a few boards, and thoughtful styling can accomplish.
Freshening Up the Outdoor Living Space
Something that has been on the project list for a very long was replacing our deck with some new deck boards. Since it’s been about 25 years since we built the deck…it was time. While I was at it, I gave the deck a little seasonal refresh with a blue scalloped patio umbrella, fresh pillows, plants. I brought out my coca cola sign for some fun and color. Now that I don’t fear falling through a deck board, it’s become the perfect place to enjoy morning tea before the temps get too hot. I’ll be sharing more about this project soon.
Family Time Is the Best Time
As much as I love decorating and DIY projects, my favorite part of summer has always been making memories with my family.
This summer included a fun cruise with the kids after graduation. These moments become more meaningful every year as they grow older and begin creating lives of their own.
I loved this cruise so much, I’m trying to plan a family cruise next year. I’m thankful we carved out time together.
Fishing Season Never Slows Down
If you’ve been following along for a while, you already know that bass fishing is a huge part of our family’s life.
Jacob has spent much of the summer traveling to tournaments, and watching him continue to chase his dreams has been such a joy. Every tournament teaches something new, and seeing his hard work pay off makes all those early mornings worthwhile. This morning he left for Kentucky Lake for a national tournament. Follow me here to get all the updates on how he is doing.
Finding Peace at Home
Some of my favorite moments this summer haven’t involved projects at all.
They’ve simply been quiet evenings walking around the property. Listening to the frogs, watching the fireflies, and appreciating how beautiful this little corner of my neck of the woods really is.
Sometimes slowing down is exactly what we need.
Looking Ahead
Summer isn’t quite over yet, but there’s a lot happening around Duke Manor Farm.
With Lily beginning her first year at UGA, Jacob continuing college fishing, and some exciting changes ahead for our family, this season feels like the beginning of a brand-new chapter.
I’m looking forward to sharing more home projects, decorating ideas, seasonal inspiration, and a few surprises in the months ahead.
Thank you for continuing to follow along. Your encouragement and friendship mean more than you know.
I hope you’re making wonderful summer memories too.
Happy Summer!
