The list

I worked some long hours last weekend on the U.S. Open and took today as comp time, hoping we could jump-start our effort to get out the door the first week of August.

It got started yesterday; while I was at work, when Cate worked up a handful of boxes in attacking the kids' rooms. And we got even further today.

Started in the kitchen, which is a room we have barely touched, aside from replacing the refrigerator. Two bags and several boxes of trash, four or so boxes packed. Knick-knacks boxed, wine glasses washed and packed, cookbooks boxed, some appliances taken out.

I took the curious fingers out with me on errands so Cate could get some painting done. We (and by we I mean she) finally painted over the tropical scene in the basement family room -- with just primer on it at the moment the room is already much brighter. Also primed over some of the kids' ... ahem ... artwork upstairs.

Cate also categorized the kids' books in their bedrooms, whittling them down to what will get them through the next month.

I was also sent out for an emergency birthday present for Elizabeth's classmate down the street, who had a party at 4. (Elizabeth was invited at 1.)

We took out cabinets from the basement, chairs from around the kitchen table. Not much cleaning of the kitchen and none of the floor, since we'll be replacing it.

After dinner, back to the kitchen. Cleaned off the hutch and took out another bag of trash. More knick-knacks, dishes, dusting ...

And no dust-ups. We survived the day.