Adrienne Balkum
Selfie Credit: Adrienne Balkum | Off to Watch the Texas Rangers play with my family.

Life Lately: June Reflections & Fresh Finds

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Welcome to another installment of Life Lately — a series where I share snippets from my life, new discoveries, and some behind-the-scenes moments that have filled my days. June has been nothing short of a whirlwind! Between swimming, home improvements, family fun, and some interesting insights into local politics, I’ve had my hands full. But, as always, I’m grateful for these moments and all the memories we’re making. Let’s dive in!
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Art in Progress: A Bold New Creation

Drawing on Canvas
In Process | Hat Lady 36×36 Canvas by Adrienne Balkum

This month marked the beginning of my largest painting yet, and I’m so excited to share the journey with you! It’s a 36×36 canvas, featuring a chic lady lounging poolside on a summer’s day, twirling her hair while sitting at a table with croissants, fruit–a light breakfast. Getting the grid just right took a little time, but it’s all coming together beautifully. I’ll be using vibrant blues and greens, and I’m still deciding whether to finish it with brushes or a palette knife. It’s a work in progress, but I can’t wait to see it come to life!

A Community Celebration of Independence

This June, we celebrated our neighborhood’s annual Independence Day event, and wow, what a blast it was! From food trucks to a foam pit, kids were in heaven. They had the chance to jump in the foam, splash in the pool, and race to the climbing tower. It’s so rewarding to see the tradition continue — a tradition that I’m especially proud to have helped inspire. Years ago, I suggested this idea to the original developer as a way to bring our community together, and it’s incredible to see it thrive today. It’s all about fostering connections, and it’s heartwarming to watch families enjoy the day together. As someone who has helped organize events like these, I can tell you it’s no small feat, but seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces makes it all worthwhile. And, of course, the fireworks were a showstopper!

The Final Reckoning, Thai Food, and Music Under the Stars

Jason and I had a night out to see the second part of Mission Impossible, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The action scenes were insane — especially the underwater scene with Tom Cruise. The dedication and preparation for that scene were mind-blowing. After the movie, we made our way to Chiang Mai Thai for a delicious lunch, followed by some live music at San Jacinto Plaza. It was the perfect way to wind down and enjoy the evening. There’s something special about soaking up the local vibe and meeting new people.

Gone Fishing & Making Memories

We kicked off summer by celebrating one of our dear friend’s new chapter with brunch at her gorgeous new property. Jason and I brought mimosas and fishing rods for a little outdoor fun. Corban (10) and Nicolette (8) caught several perch, while Genevieve (8) helped out too. It was such a peaceful and fun way to spend the day, and I’m proud to say that I successfully assembled our kid’s fishing rods! Jason released the last of the bait, and thankfully, no one had to deal with any pesky chiggers.

Refreshing Green Juice

Green Juice
Photo Credit: Adrienne Balkum | Green Juice

Sometimes the best ideas come from trying to use up ingredients before they go bad! With some kiwis and spinach that were nearing their expiration date, I decided to make a refreshing green juice. I blended a cup of water, half a cup of ice, a drizzle of maple syrup, two peeled kiwis, and a bunch of spinach — and voilà! This drink was simple, delicious, and the perfect way to start the day. If you’re looking for something fresh and energizing, this green juice is a must-try.

Decluttering My Bathroom Countertop

One of the easiest home projects I tackled this month was decluttering our master bath countertops. I ordered a cosmetic organizer and a 2-tier jewelry tree that have not only helped keep my space neat but also added a touch of style. The rotating organizer is perfect for my beauty tools, and the jewelry tree makes everything accessible yet elegant. It’s amazing how much a simple organizational tool can make a difference in your daily routine!

Disney Princess Paint Your Own Canvas

Disney Princess Paint Your Own Canvas
Photo Credit: Adrienne Balkum | Disney Princess Paint Your Own Canvas

This summer, the kids and I found a fun activity — painting our own Disney Princess canvases! These kits were a blast, and although I had to help them a little (okay, maybe a lot), they were so proud of their creations. It’s the perfect project for a rainy afternoon or a quiet day at home. If you’re looking for something fun to do with your kiddos, I highly recommend these paint kits!

Home Lighting Improvements with Rob Waldron Electric

When it comes to electrical work, I trust only one name: Rob Waldron Electric. They helped install a new chandelier in our living room and replaced some old recessed lighting in our high ceilings. The attention to detail was impeccable, and I love the results! They even wore white gloves while working with the glass to keep everything pristine. If you’re in need of electrical services, I can’t recommend them enough!

Family Fun at the Texas Rangers Game

We had an unforgettable family outing to the Texas Rangers game this month, and it was a blast! From $1 ice cream Sundays to a thrilling home run, the kids had the time of their lives. We made so many great memories, and it was a perfect summer day. If you’re looking for a fun family activity, this is definitely one to add to your list.

Local Politics: Transparency Matters

My latest political coverage is diving deep into the transparency (or lack thereof) in McLendon-Chisholm’s local government. I’m asking the tough questions and making sure the voices of our community are heard. To complement the articles, I wanted to share a powerful music video that speaks to the themes of accountability and standing up for what’s right. It’s a reminder that we all have a part to play in ensuring our communities thrive.

You don’t want to miss these articles — they come with receipts and are packed with facts! Stay informed and read up on my latest posts:

Smoke and Mirrors: Rich Dean’s Council Appointment

McLendon-Chisholm’s Budget Workshop Reveals Fiscal Mismanagement

The Cost of Political Favoritism in McLendon-Chisholm

That wraps up my June reflections and fresh finds! Life has been busy, but I’m soaking it all in. I hope this little peek into my month brings some inspiration, joy, and perhaps even a few ideas for your own summer fun. Keep an eye out for more updates and articles coming soon!

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