One of the top priorities out back has been to fully enclose the yard. We've got solid fencing along two of the three sides of the back yard, but the third side is a simple hedgerow. The hedges provide a decent amount of privacy, but there are numerous opening along the bottom that are just large enough for animals to crawl through.

Riley occasionally squeezes through the bushes when we're not watching closely enough, though he never wanders far and always pokes his head back into the yard before more than a few moments pass. But we're getting a new puppy this week. Since there's no trusting a puppy, I ran chicken wire the length of the hedges, weaving it in and out of the bushes, keeping it close to the ground.

Yes, a new puppy. We've been in negotiations with the Delaware Humane Association to adopt a mutt-puppy. At present, she's barely 8 weeks old, so once they're done with her basic veterinarian care this week, we get to bring her home. By Friday, the yard must be secure.

As I came back in from the yard, Michelle thrust a battered spatula towards my mouth. "Taste this," she ordered. Sugary sweet cream mixed with almond brittle icing pleasantly coated my mouth. After two full days of effort, she proudly displayed the lopsided cake. I looked at the cake, tilted my head, and agreed with her that the recipe in the magazine must be off a bit.

Appearances aside, the cake tasted wonderful, so we packed it up and brought it along to the Easter festivities at her parents' place. Everyone was there. After the obligatory egg hunt and the traditionally delicious buffet, the cake was a big hit.

We headed home, exhausted from our efforts throughout the day and at the buffet. The day is ending just as it should, relaxing at home.