Our project while Josh is gone was to paint the front steps. We had to sand, wash, scrape, sand some more, and wash again to prepare the stairs. Ella was a big help with the washing (she loves cleaning). The primer was way too potent for her to be around. She was locked in the house with dry erase crayons to color on the door. It kept her entertained for the 10 mins or so it took to prime.
Two days later we did the top coat. She was helpful with the paint. Which is so say, she painted her hands, shirt and hair. At least she had a blast. And now she likes paint! Finally! The next day the steps were ready to be embellished. This was much trickier since Ella, well, finally likes paint. And it was detail work. So I gave her a little paint and a brush. She painted some paper, and her hands, knees, hair and my leg...and dumped water on my freshly. painted. stairs. At least it wipes off easily when moist still for a clean start. Despite setting out a bin of water, cups, packing peanuts and a bowl of ice to distract her she was still keen on "helping" me. But they did distract her for a bit, as did the stroller (lots of climbing in and out). Eventually she was barricaded in the house again with a bowl of ice so I could finish. She happily sucked on ice cubes for a really long time (well, for her) and we'd smile and kiss at each other through the door.
But at last, we finished! Here's the process:
