tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55277812578960810002024-02-20T19:20:31.148-08:00Urban Country MomWe moved from the Seattle area to my former hometown. After 12 years in the big city we're (as my husband likes to say) "going all country".Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-36574187847974877572011-07-26T13:57:00.001-07:002011-07-26T13:57:39.138-07:00Urban Country Mom has MovedYou can find me at <a href="http://www.hometownperch.com/">www.hometownperch.com</a>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-1082640132804275852011-05-14T14:42:00.001-07:002011-05-14T15:20:02.984-07:00Itching to Buy<div align="left">I've got the itch and I've got it bad. I have my eyes on a house. It's a great house. I've mentally moved in. But the problem is that we won't be ready to buy until March 2012.<br /><br />I keep telling myself, 10 months will go by quickly. But as I sit here listening to the 18 wheeler <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">idling</span> outside my window and realize that the fruit packing warehouse we moved next to is now in full swing and will probably be hopping nearly 24 hours a day from now until September, with way too many 18 wheelers to count sitting, literally 7 feet from my window, 10 months might just feel like an eternity.<br /><br />So until then, I'm trying not to obsess about "The" house. But I'll share some designs that would work great in "The" house that I'm not obsessing over.<br /><br />Like this kitchen:<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4u0yCwPN_xtbl4iIkBNAYZSRT_93-kjEZd7CtBpJ2adv85VwgnVCxyHRUSicJEaqGnRG5lwPS3BNKB83UEHK368qJLjqKH-6B5vZZS912B96sHexLW6upiltRy6akYebeUpZf2Cx6Lmk3/s1600/kitchen.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 291px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606692565746232690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4u0yCwPN_xtbl4iIkBNAYZSRT_93-kjEZd7CtBpJ2adv85VwgnVCxyHRUSicJEaqGnRG5lwPS3BNKB83UEHK368qJLjqKH-6B5vZZS912B96sHexLW6upiltRy6akYebeUpZf2Cx6Lmk3/s400/kitchen.jpg" /><br /><br /><p align="center"></a>via <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">houzz</span><br /><br /></p><br /><br /><p align="left">Or this kitchen with that great floor!<br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJ1paRhFUQL0U5vHE-kiK8SsV_z-ICK9G2AoSLMzUD4rZV-6dcaK9r9HnNEjsgw3vP8m0sCL9hZxkaMOA8jjQl1OgZI4Zn1XwghFvrn9sVffqmVG7Ro6w6Mzt_MQxDiWI83FqvPXFCjTY/s1600/floor.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 292px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606694559218719266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJ1paRhFUQL0U5vHE-kiK8SsV_z-ICK9G2AoSLMzUD4rZV-6dcaK9r9HnNEjsgw3vP8m0sCL9hZxkaMOA8jjQl1OgZI4Zn1XwghFvrn9sVffqmVG7Ro6w6Mzt_MQxDiWI83FqvPXFCjTY/s400/floor.jpg" /><br /><br /><p align="center"></a>via h<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">ouzz</span></p><br /><br /><p align="left"><br /><br /><br />And this guest room. Perfect for my mother-in-law:<br /></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Lre4INeuktpTpRYR-2kKQI5KsPW4GN9L4tk0a5aEMFrJ6Fz5RMXox8Y-zCCUQmUQIBtC5-lkMkxuLrUPexIHdX_EhEFZxsxt7KM727lFKQ7Ds5fQIJSAtMiOGUH59PsqxI4hav8X0ux6/s1600/guest+bed.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606692894029833778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Lre4INeuktpTpRYR-2kKQI5KsPW4GN9L4tk0a5aEMFrJ6Fz5RMXox8Y-zCCUQmUQIBtC5-lkMkxuLrUPexIHdX_EhEFZxsxt7KM727lFKQ7Ds5fQIJSAtMiOGUH59PsqxI4hav8X0ux6/s400/guest+bed.jpg" /></a><br />via the borrowed abode<br /><br /><br /><p>This for the entry...<br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigELAFkISo3ihUcp7pouARjvN53mzuhXTEKZdg6WNC2o_oLJQKMsysQKwLOvJH6NBZEb2nWA69hGJnTS_3AeA6drP3AEYA0aLkeeDy9lx80e2tUYCD8gEouW_S9VSltR6PM1QlcSLdLe8B/s1600/entry.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606696603899292114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigELAFkISo3ihUcp7pouARjvN53mzuhXTEKZdg6WNC2o_oLJQKMsysQKwLOvJH6NBZEb2nWA69hGJnTS_3AeA6drP3AEYA0aLkeeDy9lx80e2tUYCD8gEouW_S9VSltR6PM1QlcSLdLe8B/s400/entry.jpg" /> <br /><p align="center"></a><br />via Design*Sponge<br /><br /></p><br /><p></p><br /><br /><p>with this blue door.<br /></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuPxf9TxCKC8kJYxSiC4KV7qW4EPKH_D9D3Vlj4ArD9u71M-h-UtGWbHoxK8V5Vj1Un27TdkBM7xkRqd_vXHqFgp6HLWFP_Fs2hK5W1zqp9Wa5TYzyasjCR313ZC_3oRPzoypGmtX4Fnpt/s1600/door.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606695020836802754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuPxf9TxCKC8kJYxSiC4KV7qW4EPKH_D9D3Vlj4ArD9u71M-h-UtGWbHoxK8V5Vj1Un27TdkBM7xkRqd_vXHqFgp6HLWFP_Fs2hK5W1zqp9Wa5TYzyasjCR313ZC_3oRPzoypGmtX4Fnpt/s400/door.jpg" /></a><br />via <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">pinterest</span><br /><br /></p><br /><br />And raised garden beds for the one acre lot:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQZ5R6KYHjG9FNOqjVw2CrN2TJLL2mKx0I6hLrl-bpOaflKBZlvyQXj_K7dSKendn7VNwJugKRQwJPOthlG0qgEhYRiCE8h9H8NtqYunmKm46jAx5ewOxpz9st44WysVYfrI65XA6yfTe/s1600/flowerbeds.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606693427264838066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQZ5R6KYHjG9FNOqjVw2CrN2TJLL2mKx0I6hLrl-bpOaflKBZlvyQXj_K7dSKendn7VNwJugKRQwJPOthlG0qgEhYRiCE8h9H8NtqYunmKm46jAx5ewOxpz9st44WysVYfrI65XA6yfTe/s400/flowerbeds.jpg" /> <br /><p align="center"></a><br />via <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">houzz</span><br /><br /></p><br /><p align="left">And can't forget the pool. Because no one acre lot in Washington's wine country is complete without an inground pool.<br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCo8r_MNBCiYj09eetcDDWMF9xVV7gOa01hWYWpgy2vHmeW1oqK_f5uf-Bg_oJUGn9QngTpRVttvfLOGSOYBfLZfHACLTlW3uYnI858A-wfwACmZ4vVP6DxlZKgy7twL729prhvkHEKVV_/s1600/pool.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606693832200062130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCo8r_MNBCiYj09eetcDDWMF9xVV7gOa01hWYWpgy2vHmeW1oqK_f5uf-Bg_oJUGn9QngTpRVttvfLOGSOYBfLZfHACLTlW3uYnI858A-wfwACmZ4vVP6DxlZKgy7twL729prhvkHEKVV_/s400/pool.jpg" /> <br /><p align="center"></a>via <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">houzz</span> </p><br /><p align="left">So as these 18 wheelers idle outside my window, I will not obsess about "The" house and just enjoy the fact that my kids are with 6 other kids on the block, screaming, playing in the water and making their own block party. That makes this temporary stay worthwhile.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-4047639036573352612011-04-28T10:52:00.000-07:002011-04-28T11:19:36.572-07:00Shopping LocalThere is a darling shop here. I almost missed knowing about it. I had driven by many times but didn't stop. I assumed it would be stuffy and pricey. I was pleasantly surprised and completely delighted. I stopped in yesterday looking for dresses for an event I have this weekend. I found two contenders and could have bought more. I had looked at all of the big stores in town, Macy's, TJ Maxx, Old Navy. I found a few things but they were more than I wanted to spend or not very original.<br /><br />So I stopped into this darling little place called <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Patina/129637393734790"><strong>Patina</strong></a> in the historic downtown area. They have unique clothing, shoes, jewelry, housewares and best of all original art from local artists. A very brief bit of history; we used to have a shopping district downtown. There are reasons people believe it failed. I have my own theories. Stores went away. The mall closed and moved south into a small town bordering our town. It's not the same. It's not a great place to shop. There is nothing interesting,unique or fun about it. It's more of a chore to go there. So I'm thankful for shops like Patina that are off the beaten path and committed to quality, good prices and style. It makes me want to open up my own little shop to sell something, anything.<br /><br />There are other local shops that I will be visiting this summer. I look forward to new discoveries.<br /><br />Here are some photos of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Patina/129637393734790">Patina</a>. Can't you just see the coolness?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCycUgxKZt6iVxub9r8EduwfVLSMuBMFLViA4_NHOwzfdlQ3eiL9kgog_LKHJEuOGTevZs5bcRg5wSX_3X7twlN0b8RLSfJsblqZMKxmZt4BcRVhGYv_1q_HVOvDC98Q5wt3WLq-bqFdh2/s1600/patina+1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600699407105947042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCycUgxKZt6iVxub9r8EduwfVLSMuBMFLViA4_NHOwzfdlQ3eiL9kgog_LKHJEuOGTevZs5bcRg5wSX_3X7twlN0b8RLSfJsblqZMKxmZt4BcRVhGYv_1q_HVOvDC98Q5wt3WLq-bqFdh2/s400/patina+1.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhns9EH8G05Q22VJHHngzEZ2VQFOpGKWB7Hiip2YprSIWqDsqqIREpsHTWwkPw8jPjZWxKNKXYjJVLnLt-x9LUkPoBKK4Pf408mixRQg9b-_6YS1jFLtF0fmyUcUi6aHkpqpXl_VSQNS_7p/s1600/patina+2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600699407268087346" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhns9EH8G05Q22VJHHngzEZ2VQFOpGKWB7Hiip2YprSIWqDsqqIREpsHTWwkPw8jPjZWxKNKXYjJVLnLt-x9LUkPoBKK4Pf408mixRQg9b-_6YS1jFLtF0fmyUcUi6aHkpqpXl_VSQNS_7p/s400/patina+2.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8s2nWZ6XVs5aCPr2hyphenhyphen16tJAAyyc7A5MbnONVpBUKfr0a3F2xMM0rctIjaEaKmQkNDvIh_Zy_NxDjnLP2wJYuRnu3PfERSFoCxpmKT9Z95v2Ndo949xGgcvti6xUSqjGAyhgkOcQc6_KhW/s1600/patina+3.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600699402162551378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8s2nWZ6XVs5aCPr2hyphenhyphen16tJAAyyc7A5MbnONVpBUKfr0a3F2xMM0rctIjaEaKmQkNDvIh_Zy_NxDjnLP2wJYuRnu3PfERSFoCxpmKT9Z95v2Ndo949xGgcvti6xUSqjGAyhgkOcQc6_KhW/s400/patina+3.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PvIYytzx6evjm0ntezUbTdOdXrCDBhgpQZbOVXjkgPAmzyMMqCChdOuqy85RHV8iqI2gKs0Q9zXRZet3vyFuU-OI4mZNNhk6VlsiB708_qlhZbnXtoL4S86n6lt-FwamFXk0DrvPU94-/s1600/patina+4.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600698987492532290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PvIYytzx6evjm0ntezUbTdOdXrCDBhgpQZbOVXjkgPAmzyMMqCChdOuqy85RHV8iqI2gKs0Q9zXRZet3vyFuU-OI4mZNNhk6VlsiB708_qlhZbnXtoL4S86n6lt-FwamFXk0DrvPU94-/s400/patina+4.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9_YHNFbFTacMtmbNd_7EMOhh8IytqrrSoTYLXLS0gRO_mPWUI0rzNXO-de4uTeX_i5W4j5vi2JFSzksmEchgnZ697IOQiPqMhQfUmdqb-LKZC9F-Y8yUZXotfcNpjM_q75jf5wEt14KF/s1600/patina+5.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 327px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600698983799617602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9_YHNFbFTacMtmbNd_7EMOhh8IytqrrSoTYLXLS0gRO_mPWUI0rzNXO-de4uTeX_i5W4j5vi2JFSzksmEchgnZ697IOQiPqMhQfUmdqb-LKZC9F-Y8yUZXotfcNpjM_q75jf5wEt14KF/s400/patina+5.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FqeIHVVWaiVWV2F2AQOaKt7lWIT-eAB2laQypqiOKdxt9or3LE4Z1beojaSHI0e23Cdb7W8tCg4KZTMLKIExcYZtZtzFCuvEj-mlCxD8JaCsPFqmN3uSEM-gD8PrOS5IQ7fFAby_7__G/s1600/patina+6.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600698979925834050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FqeIHVVWaiVWV2F2AQOaKt7lWIT-eAB2laQypqiOKdxt9or3LE4Z1beojaSHI0e23Cdb7W8tCg4KZTMLKIExcYZtZtzFCuvEj-mlCxD8JaCsPFqmN3uSEM-gD8PrOS5IQ7fFAby_7__G/s400/patina+6.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihdloumrv525ggD8QlyEGRTZNw1WJyqg8Pmrzs35Uqc1qFPE_22qcfohsHYJkd6169ZRXejcdPGNUWm3WrIiSY7V4Du3c2MiHmmsRjOX7Ph9-b9bKTG9qtT8on2EBevw4zQywJdUs9o1Q9/s1600/patina+art+1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 379px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600698976017680178" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihdloumrv525ggD8QlyEGRTZNw1WJyqg8Pmrzs35Uqc1qFPE_22qcfohsHYJkd6169ZRXejcdPGNUWm3WrIiSY7V4Du3c2MiHmmsRjOX7Ph9-b9bKTG9qtT8on2EBevw4zQywJdUs9o1Q9/s400/patina+art+1.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrevNX4fRNBga4zr0-Rhm5GEjPtoRX_qwhKh2_TMquMksXFRKzS45jOREWZjGkPfzW4MO3t2Oq1zBGX3-sG5McS6plesjiAQCGrkM6ZdxEKNaB4MWJZhe_lvG0OKBvA02m9Ne2D2VgbO34/s1600/patina+art+2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600698969785048290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrevNX4fRNBga4zr0-Rhm5GEjPtoRX_qwhKh2_TMquMksXFRKzS45jOREWZjGkPfzW4MO3t2Oq1zBGX3-sG5McS6plesjiAQCGrkM6ZdxEKNaB4MWJZhe_lvG0OKBvA02m9Ne2D2VgbO34/s400/patina+art+2.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Patina/129637393734790"></a>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-58087819339048979732011-04-04T15:20:00.001-07:002011-04-04T16:10:55.270-07:00City to Country to City AgainNearly two years ago, when we moved from Seattle to two acres in my former hometown we had some adjustments to make. Like not having any neighbors. Walking the garbage can what felt like a quarter mile down the driveway. Being able to hear a pin drop at night. Entertaining ourselves by talking to the cows and feeding the horses. Having to explain to the pizza driver for the umpteenth time how to get to our house since it wasn't right off the road. <br /><br />We recently moved into a townhouse/duplex community. And there are new adjustments. Reminders of our Seattle days although this is no Seattle. New noises to get used to, like the apple packing plant right behind our unit that is sure to get busier and nosier as apple packing season picks up. Reminders that there will be parking space issues. Mail delivery issues. Note to self: next time we move do not choose a place right in front of the community mailbox. You just might get a nasty note from the mail carrier about your mother-in-law's car being parked too close to the mailbox no matter how far forward she pulls. Note to mail carrier: that thing you drive, it has reverse. <br /><br />But the best adjustment. The one that makes my heart sing. Friends. Neighborhood friends. At this very moment the girls are playing with children they go to school with. Growing up my memories of playing with neighborhood friends, many that occured in this very same neighborhood, are my fondest memories. I'm so glad they have that again. But that's not good news for Stella the dog. She was their sole playmate, well other than the horse and the cow, since we brought her home last summer. She's heartbroken that they have left her in the house to play with their human friends. She'll adjust just as we all have.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-16531565544733270422011-02-22T16:30:00.000-08:002011-02-22T16:48:17.793-08:00Quick Couch FixI fell in love with a couch...online...on sale....had an online code for another 25% off.....AND figured out a way to get it here without paying shipping. I still couldn't justify it. We know we will be moving soon. We're not sure if we will be renting for another year or buying. So I just couldn't justify spending a dime of our down payment on a new couch. And I couldn't stand the thought of getting it on sale, with a discount and putting it on a credit card just to pay interest. That would kind of make the sale price null and void.<br /><br /><br />I was feeling sorry for myself and my tired couch. There were strings hanging out all over the cushions from Stella's claws and the fabric was looking a little dirty. I went to TJ Maxx to browse away the blues and found these darling paisley pillows:<br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576678079956513138" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUjY-2-XVyyPmrv5wAJFda8fY35ln0ehVaBL0xuLrn4ulP1OoHocFF_jR6tb6ZeBv64pJ0DG07IfQJTZmbhhGiyiQj8J3HDD1tC7idohbsQlmWS71fVnNetiY0tGVsIOQ5MejGfPh6HTv/s320/005.JPG" /><br />I bought four. So for a mere $68, a good scrub with the shampooer and some time cutting all those annoying strings the couch went from this:<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576678082788716290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctk8f33V5vDw5UEXh2gfVpBNYZTfPXDZvTOWwT93z77OemIex7yL7Sj2b1QVL7f8OaBH7m36nX8HzOTmtGqrmLepYl8bjHvu1ce7SvCcWrXjk0QQe4rvrhgDvkPf_OP2DmQTOAEHoyE3s/s320/001.JPG" /><br /><div></div><br />To this:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjruSHT7fXmGmG3ISFIOIY9qMSMDidf1GdFWlZ8mVOoU4a4AuaLbEt5fdQcNOttsY2e5Jn0M-iMRWObHIRDhYyJGW4Ht4XXObjypg7WSu4q3xVD8L2VG6Lw6Iieehn_RD2nwvsylzmFDB4U/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576678091705578066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjruSHT7fXmGmG3ISFIOIY9qMSMDidf1GdFWlZ8mVOoU4a4AuaLbEt5fdQcNOttsY2e5Jn0M-iMRWObHIRDhYyJGW4Ht4XXObjypg7WSu4q3xVD8L2VG6Lw6Iieehn_RD2nwvsylzmFDB4U/s320/006.JPG" /></a><br /><br />And the best part is, Stella still has her favorite sunning spot.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0bDiH3DufG57_5_EnmPlL93r37D8Ac32WfVmuEiqu7yj94mecLqPxNJAALc67Qs4Cbmr81H1zIxq2IApDg-_KUSA4GIE5pn6nbTLwDkV8-VNKUCkPVb2qmbXfJa2tQpsQXp0TYTkFkK5/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576678095615763138" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0bDiH3DufG57_5_EnmPlL93r37D8Ac32WfVmuEiqu7yj94mecLqPxNJAALc67Qs4Cbmr81H1zIxq2IApDg-_KUSA4GIE5pn6nbTLwDkV8-VNKUCkPVb2qmbXfJa2tQpsQXp0TYTkFkK5/s320/003.JPG" /></a><br /><br />I started making an Ottoman slipcover with some old linen curtain panels I had. It's not working out like I had hoped. I might have to go with Plan B. And it's probably time to replace that lamp shade. Or go back to TJ Maxx and pick up the lamp that I had in my cart that I put back out of guilt. It really would have been perfect.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-20721779936190657112011-02-12T07:12:00.000-08:002011-02-12T07:54:50.094-08:00Designing for a Future, Unknown HomeOur house hunt has been put on hold. It doesn't mean that we won't be moving we just don't know the plan right now. It's complicated.<br /><div></div><br />Until then, I will continue to collect design <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">inspirations</span> for whatever future home we have.<br /><div></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 203px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572822923955064978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRI0ax689wKUzrtioU8k50BTV2DKvuxWDGO6O1zugb9VGY04ZBexztBsEnmDZsAYk7AmWedXMGXX9JG2-ZVSQT3AsuJWv139IRGcI0aOFTrv6S33pdn1uHWMlDzNJiTJMhn1CUyn-Ke3Yb/s320/fireplace.jpg" /><br /><br /><div>Hopefully we have a fireplace in need of some love so I can do this project by the Lettered Cottage</div><br /><div><a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/?p=220">http://theletteredcottage.net/?p=220</a> </div><br /><br /><p>I love Amy Butler fabrics for color and pattern in the girls' rooms. Pinks and greens for curtains in Taylor's room, blues and purples for curtains in Kendall's room.</p><br /><p></p><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHH84AFIKK7zsRCwI8dlDcP6QiLIft_SN4DGOGaYcst2ZKkrxPi6lIvDZ1c06ZP0EpEJo6KYExevuAk7AzWiyPe6zjYmtI9QaXZiilW7tn0RYxqGSZXR4iluoQkPBp7220avQIHya5vfM9/s1600/6_abs24_pink_trumpetflowers.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 294px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572826142300137970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHH84AFIKK7zsRCwI8dlDcP6QiLIft_SN4DGOGaYcst2ZKkrxPi6lIvDZ1c06ZP0EpEJo6KYExevuAk7AzWiyPe6zjYmtI9QaXZiilW7tn0RYxqGSZXR4iluoQkPBp7220avQIHya5vfM9/s320/6_abs24_pink_trumpetflowers.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyCaGn8OvdQdRtXBEeD7nlH7TMcPisQOPlJmKzqkh5BMhWUktQCoWgn5LQoEYpWBL56hH8zqnYGJ2K7OnO6wUXza7JFMbvC-6Wsk0jaRKw_wVzhZsHfewTbiYRwkgzft3US27foTLRHcOo/s1600/5_abs24_emerald_trumpetflowers.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 294px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572826143549079602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyCaGn8OvdQdRtXBEeD7nlH7TMcPisQOPlJmKzqkh5BMhWUktQCoWgn5LQoEYpWBL56hH8zqnYGJ2K7OnO6wUXza7JFMbvC-6Wsk0jaRKw_wVzhZsHfewTbiYRwkgzft3US27foTLRHcOo/s320/5_abs24_emerald_trumpetflowers.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/mainmenu.php">http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/mainmenu.php</a><br /><p>What I know for sure is that we will need some new furniture. Our couch is too small and is showing its age. I couldn't believe it when I walked into Bi-Mart yesterday and saw this couch on sale for $244! Seriously, it's real leather, has great modern lines and contrasting stitching. I may just need to pick up two, even though I have no idea what our future living room will look like. I love the idea of matching couches facing <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">each other</span> in front of a fireplace. Symmetry brings me joy. <br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRX6LoboV4HyZU3cTARCOsYqorQvEUWOu8D_xHjKBQHgD8yJOIGOrLsa_1TBqjKtPWcNgPWSshuzqcsOArxuV_WcPHx0a1wQ87w_TFkgxmbHdNb2xJHNuSzxMi9bot1Og9ASGIQkUaRevZ/s1600/sofa.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 250px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 250px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572827520065213122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRX6LoboV4HyZU3cTARCOsYqorQvEUWOu8D_xHjKBQHgD8yJOIGOrLsa_1TBqjKtPWcNgPWSshuzqcsOArxuV_WcPHx0a1wQ87w_TFkgxmbHdNb2xJHNuSzxMi9bot1Og9ASGIQkUaRevZ/s320/sofa.jpg" /></a><br />And while we are on the topic of moving and designing a yet-to-be-determined home, I am <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">definitely</span> back to wanting a one level, spacious rambler/ranch home. In fact, there is one that was on the market for a long time, didn't sell, they rented it out for a while but the renter lost his/her job and so the owners moved back in. Here is hoping that they want to sell it when the time is right for us and we can get a killer deal. I'm a dreamer. </div><div> </div><div><br /> </div><p></p>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-13326279544593791352011-01-26T16:13:00.000-08:002011-01-26T16:18:20.908-08:00Let the Fun Begin!We have been pre-approved. Soon we can tell our landlord to take his 40% rent hike and shove it. Let the obsessive house hunting begin.<br /><br />I've watched the market closely since we moved back over a year and a half ago and I'm pretty sure our future home isn't on the market yet. So until it is, I will be obsessing over Craigslist, stalking neighborhoods I like and checking email first thing each morning to see what new MLS alerts hit my inbox.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-32790675016288913222011-01-23T19:05:00.000-08:002011-01-23T20:27:47.691-08:00Couch LoveIt looks like we will be moving sooner than we thought. We found out on Friday that the landlord is raising the rent....A LOT. Um, no thanks.<br /><br />So since then I have been obsessing over houses and furniture. I'm getting excited about setting up a new place. <br /><br />I LOVE <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/blake-sofa-f983/?pkey=csofas-sectionals-couch">this</a> couch! His name is Blake and he is from West Elm. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLR4dGxF6BbvissS1lQAgOKOqUURO_jF_g1c2zmlJkr4kK3vG7P2TapDg86rW1b8KgC-38Te_2p1OPSLcVCpZNuhiPKjp9frQv7d3t54z-b5zeBp6PJP4d3HQzPfUrwd9RkHHK6zk7uJAI/s1600/Blake.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLR4dGxF6BbvissS1lQAgOKOqUURO_jF_g1c2zmlJkr4kK3vG7P2TapDg86rW1b8KgC-38Te_2p1OPSLcVCpZNuhiPKjp9frQv7d3t54z-b5zeBp6PJP4d3HQzPfUrwd9RkHHK6zk7uJAI/s320/Blake.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565584170105627602" /></a><br /><br />I thought I wanted a sectional but not since I found Blake. I haven't decided if I want all 91" of Blake or two 81" Blakes face to face. I especially love that the bottom cushion is one piece. No annoying crack to sink down in and no annoying Cheerios underneath the cushions to vacuum up. Not that I do that. I probably should but I'm afraid to look.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-59513368829626604262011-01-19T16:09:00.001-08:002011-01-23T20:30:01.637-08:00Chair re-do Take 2I bought my dining set from an antique store. I refinished the table twice. I hated it the first time. I've refinished the chairs once and don't love them so I'm going to do it again and hope the second time is a charm too.<br /><br />I found a fabric remnant on clearance for $3.50. And now decision time. What color should I paint the frame? The table is mahogany color. I can sand and refinish the wood or paint them cream, black or even go out on a limb and paint them a dark blue/teal like in the pattern in the fabric. I'm loving Martha Stewart's colors Plumage, Blue Suede and Gabardine. Looks like I'm not the only one loving these shades right now. <br /><br />Check <a href="http://www.brooklynlimestone.com/2011/01/junk-drawer-overhaul-me-first.html">this</a> out! <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90TCjeigykGR5Um0dYJVzHR2N0amN9zW976lHIGU42EJ89ZT_bkQSxVoFuOeMbY_kcvqNuMvwlXaz6ktuW8FxW_0ZibfLVrqTFXDgl5jEz2BRqxdQzmQRRJaxWRowcn9ibuLBlwhX7xwZ/s1600/BLS.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 96px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90TCjeigykGR5Um0dYJVzHR2N0amN9zW976lHIGU42EJ89ZT_bkQSxVoFuOeMbY_kcvqNuMvwlXaz6ktuW8FxW_0ZibfLVrqTFXDgl5jEz2BRqxdQzmQRRJaxWRowcn9ibuLBlwhX7xwZ/s320/BLS.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564056510461975698" /></a><br /><br />The other thing I need to decide is whether to put a fun, flirty little skirt on the chairs. Maybe something tailored or something more gathered and feminine. <br /><br />Here are some pics of the chair before and the new fabric. Any thoughts on frame color? I would love your input. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1869SOm1C4L1f_fG23Cey_3IVa2DLD0C9-Nw_1_rUiZw8lgrvNOkewpqI8JinTLuPiWPS6SaGoRsiyQ4ALS3MBonKOiHG0fJLn3r9nvR4Wmjy7DVXWzvAtLvtF7b0-cl03TKDzP6DUP7P/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1869SOm1C4L1f_fG23Cey_3IVa2DLD0C9-Nw_1_rUiZw8lgrvNOkewpqI8JinTLuPiWPS6SaGoRsiyQ4ALS3MBonKOiHG0fJLn3r9nvR4Wmjy7DVXWzvAtLvtF7b0-cl03TKDzP6DUP7P/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564062281804131106" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LiPuNYJS3mJHVK6ygeByQ8pR7hOHF84GSDa4JqfNQ7Wg1Dr6OIUnHPpGa0wyCrraL4Z4HDqNdFm1gdznlppfqmSNJX-X_mvo3LMmlD9EMzCaU6cXgKs2KfCi43obtZ6ABdqUR4DweTqU/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LiPuNYJS3mJHVK6ygeByQ8pR7hOHF84GSDa4JqfNQ7Wg1Dr6OIUnHPpGa0wyCrraL4Z4HDqNdFm1gdznlppfqmSNJX-X_mvo3LMmlD9EMzCaU6cXgKs2KfCi43obtZ6ABdqUR4DweTqU/s320/001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564062283257914370" /></a><br />Our dog Stella likes the new fabric.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXmQ8MplA3rMgJsfeL0_woIqIguwGBI5NiH-rwaBm-ix-bPcpi-lO0S5wHWrChbxGDsLnNkVdoPgYoNhNIyQhvBkW81zdEBZnnQ66SxLV90WPYrS3obPIb6yEVRxkuDZt34y9biLngz9f/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXmQ8MplA3rMgJsfeL0_woIqIguwGBI5NiH-rwaBm-ix-bPcpi-lO0S5wHWrChbxGDsLnNkVdoPgYoNhNIyQhvBkW81zdEBZnnQ66SxLV90WPYrS3obPIb6yEVRxkuDZt34y9biLngz9f/s320/006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564062295778898962" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEEnSqpkIHdMgUodnQmfHzLGvE6wOLZQWaIsxMsybnFHyT8br-fayRjxRSJrjvJCDsKrhl7588j-pdGY5vG4WHCJh3mmmrTQAMevzwA-_gsZvh_y_e8B6o-wXTMD-ymeq5DeiDMS-VrSx3/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEEnSqpkIHdMgUodnQmfHzLGvE6wOLZQWaIsxMsybnFHyT8br-fayRjxRSJrjvJCDsKrhl7588j-pdGY5vG4WHCJh3mmmrTQAMevzwA-_gsZvh_y_e8B6o-wXTMD-ymeq5DeiDMS-VrSx3/s320/004.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564062290459601394" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaS31mBKbYMTfgUvhk74tYzJ0UShc373B2vkXaCEcSaJpzWBzYInsgVIXDCDV7fYvfcQAAlK1tZNtQzZ9rbO-FpHJJlS8a8advPfXUM4aPj8byTUn11QOu-fbLeBMVIvt1nLXDjFFIvy1g/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaS31mBKbYMTfgUvhk74tYzJ0UShc373B2vkXaCEcSaJpzWBzYInsgVIXDCDV7fYvfcQAAlK1tZNtQzZ9rbO-FpHJJlS8a8advPfXUM4aPj8byTUn11QOu-fbLeBMVIvt1nLXDjFFIvy1g/s320/003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564062285188499138" /></a>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-15936006148273066802011-01-19T16:02:00.000-08:002011-01-19T16:08:23.052-08:00Only HereOnly on our local Craigslist will you find advertised a "Dusty rose, stained glass chandelier" priced at $150. $150! Dude. YOU should pay ME to take that away for you.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LFe5wDhmhNoucJK3fMfbIrYcqkpKn7no6wsfY3umP6e8IuPd4iyLndHWvgB84GxsDk7Mc-D0RT4FxMUy0I01AIdbc28Ej-LEtRe231xYIW9RxxDfKw3wSsYv3PYITte8J_xeLXpu6vor/s1600/chandy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LFe5wDhmhNoucJK3fMfbIrYcqkpKn7no6wsfY3umP6e8IuPd4iyLndHWvgB84GxsDk7Mc-D0RT4FxMUy0I01AIdbc28Ej-LEtRe231xYIW9RxxDfKw3wSsYv3PYITte8J_xeLXpu6vor/s320/chandy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564053079936384578" /></a>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-312344442172126712011-01-04T16:51:00.000-08:002011-01-04T16:58:18.444-08:00Not so deep rootsJust when I allowed myself to mentally stay put and decorate the house we are in now the owner sent me a message asking if we want to buy the place in a year. The problem is his price was way off of what we feel like we should pay based on a lot of things, especially the current market. I'm not sure where he came up with the number but now I'm back to being torn. Do we do some hard core negotiating or find a place listed for much less and look from some of the things that have been on our wish list for a while (like decent square footage on one level)? <br /><br />I'm torn again between looking for a one-level ranch/rambler fixer or staying here in this Cape Cod style fixer. It's so tempting to not move again. But if we can spend tens of thousands less on a different house, that's tempting too.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-28563739733174890572010-12-30T15:21:00.000-08:002010-12-30T16:06:22.824-08:00Making PlansOh, where to start? We have rented this house for a year and a half and hope to buy it this summer. A year and a half of wondering if this was The place for us. A year and a half of thinking about all of the things we would change.<br /><br />The house was built in the early 90's. So it has the typical dark oak wood everywhere, mini-blinds, carpeting, worn vinyl flooring, laminate counters and more country blue and mauve than you can shake a stick at.<br /><br />So here is The List. Brace yourself. It's a long one. It's going to take some time. Okay, a lot of time.<br /><br /><em>Short Term Projects:</em><br />~Replace two exterior doors with divided light doors to let more natural light in.<br />~Install wide-plank wood floors. The sculptured mauve carpet has got to go.<br />~Paint all dark oak white<br />~Paint the walls in all of the rooms. The entire house is white because apparently it goes well with dark oak.<br />~Remove mini-blinds and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">install</span> updated window coverings.<br /><br /><em>Longer Term Projects:</em><br />~Kitchen remodel: Tear out pantry. Reconfigure layout. Install additional cabinets and island. Replace appliances.<br />~Turn outbuilding into garage. Frame and insulate two bays now and the other two bays later when the girls start driving (Oh Lord help us).<br />~Turn current garage into family room.<br />~Tear down wall in hallway to open up between the kitchen and new family room.<br />~Turn current living room into dining room.<br />~Build covered pergola/porch off of dining room with French Doors.<br /><br />Here are some before pictures:<br /><br />The hallway between the garage (our future family room) and the kitchen. The doorway straight ahead will be taken out. The door at the end of the hallway to the left (not shown) will be replaced with a door with divided lights to let natural light in. The wall on the left is the pantry wall that will be gone. Right now it's very dark.<br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIWjF2z3TbikwXtsqMwsM24B0LxRd6q8J-rsCcxrky-o95w1UqM_vOkImOte2fCwBnNG9Ri4whQnh7youBDbLv_oDjhjtVaZD1vsVBNABsnZrhnqMozaO0Pmgz7bsnmbkM5muT6wXNi2GG/s1600/021.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 255px; HEIGHT: 392px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556624451243550930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIWjF2z3TbikwXtsqMwsM24B0LxRd6q8J-rsCcxrky-o95w1UqM_vOkImOte2fCwBnNG9Ri4whQnh7youBDbLv_oDjhjtVaZD1vsVBNABsnZrhnqMozaO0Pmgz7bsnmbkM5muT6wXNi2GG/s320/021.JPG" /></a></p><br /><br />The pantry that I can't wait to take a sledge hammer to. I love the storage but this thing takes up way more space than it's worth.<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqdpuKotEV4ILZ5NJVTfjLlYpoFQ9Y-99X2OFFKyVxj42BWgBwT7U8JGk_eIsPpf0NEiq1LCoqlypq6XeNuNDU2t_6ECx53Md0OsUl7dpK49qowgcXvAKrCG8hQtVOJxhKO4je2K5vGLk/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556624447992479682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqdpuKotEV4ILZ5NJVTfjLlYpoFQ9Y-99X2OFFKyVxj42BWgBwT7U8JGk_eIsPpf0NEiq1LCoqlypq6XeNuNDU2t_6ECx53Md0OsUl7dpK49qowgcXvAKrCG8hQtVOJxhKO4je2K5vGLk/s320/015.JPG" /></a></p><br /><br /><br />Oak, oak and more oak. I can just hear the paint calling my name.<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIth7Sz-oVKVqZy8LYJz4NgltPQMVPS4go1psqW9zHf1lmkG9k9M2PV6eaTuxktlUjb4usZi9WWlX_QVaqFU3CPp9hs96ZPYshg6ifHx15vADoAqxKMLMPjiWuN5pfgI_lb5gN0GbTNnq5/s1600/014.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556624442716343394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIth7Sz-oVKVqZy8LYJz4NgltPQMVPS4go1psqW9zHf1lmkG9k9M2PV6eaTuxktlUjb4usZi9WWlX_QVaqFU3CPp9hs96ZPYshg6ifHx15vADoAqxKMLMPjiWuN5pfgI_lb5gN0GbTNnq5/s320/014.JPG" /></a></p><br /><br /><br />Did I mention there is a lot of oak in this house? The layout is funky too. There are some space-hogging design choices going on here.<br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc92oi0YG-yeObrYG09nUOcKva842XatbyhQmoFsyGxO2G3fJqeNMDbSt0X7ibk1pCHW4zNBx-nYsYyxktZsw-qtZugtAj46A2CpHkomtqFcDFZ_hwbuYD9cg5rJhGLYH-1rcBmXvRSPsY/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556624439305373730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc92oi0YG-yeObrYG09nUOcKva842XatbyhQmoFsyGxO2G3fJqeNMDbSt0X7ibk1pCHW4zNBx-nYsYyxktZsw-qtZugtAj46A2CpHkomtqFcDFZ_hwbuYD9cg5rJhGLYH-1rcBmXvRSPsY/s320/011.JPG" /></a></p><br /><br /><br />The current living room that will someday be our formal dining room. Until then, we will pretty it up.<br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_VpJBgkwJSrL8dn9_di0K160vWYACad337GurD61swrRcwhAJu-ZK3i77y_noCKOlzKnwEFBu-qoSXPvW4L5bxqat_SYsYhy7mRPn4abvw-GMslKVRPurn0Fr5AukTVC2QrUCtUpCpwvj/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556624433087923762" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_VpJBgkwJSrL8dn9_di0K160vWYACad337GurD61swrRcwhAJu-ZK3i77y_noCKOlzKnwEFBu-qoSXPvW4L5bxqat_SYsYhy7mRPn4abvw-GMslKVRPurn0Fr5AukTVC2QrUCtUpCpwvj/s320/005.JPG" /></a></p><br />Our current garage/future family room. The door will be replaced with a wall of windows. The ceiling will be removed and replaced with a vaulted ceiling. A double-sided/indoor/outdoor fireplace will be added on the right side wall so that we can enjoy it from inside or outside on the patio.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_9u-6I8kegYAFcw_Ye5uXBtTXrnUafvdmI_6isa5nbulwkWZFJxdxw5l-phTxAQLPfG2rF-jez-j_jNh61cP3XwhCSrDiw-kEfhNqCEShyphenhyphen2ZDlGvwrtq8HKLVDUbRTh2XtKnSUGzPxa-/s1600/043.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556627311235384034" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_9u-6I8kegYAFcw_Ye5uXBtTXrnUafvdmI_6isa5nbulwkWZFJxdxw5l-phTxAQLPfG2rF-jez-j_jNh61cP3XwhCSrDiw-kEfhNqCEShyphenhyphen2ZDlGvwrtq8HKLVDUbRTh2XtKnSUGzPxa-/s320/043.JPG" /></a> </p><p></p><p>Our bedroom with the lovely, mauve sculptured carpet. This will be our first project. Nobody should be forced to live with carpet like that. EVER. </p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWtyLRECN6BENRGcGU9LzCeMfQzRT2QsnnrDUcy5PaW3izxG8vIX2AD1BJ1q-Wz3TGmm-_KPDiqVGciDHVbsQPU0r0l7mL10VKs9D9EbT6Im3QrXa4cyWUPL1BlmJX3ofCv77VV5HKGsq0/s1600/030.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556627311048305426" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWtyLRECN6BENRGcGU9LzCeMfQzRT2QsnnrDUcy5PaW3izxG8vIX2AD1BJ1q-Wz3TGmm-_KPDiqVGciDHVbsQPU0r0l7mL10VKs9D9EbT6Im3QrXa4cyWUPL1BlmJX3ofCv77VV5HKGsq0/s320/030.JPG" /></a><br />A close up view just in case you need proof.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWwJussn_AcuMhhMJBXxzQCH0GcmHWsXPLCs4sRurTRvPBwm-WT6R2_Rf-VadlB1hQW686Guz4YOod9IZKLaYEqJLMzpfqYC4AhHFQRNExq2nvaLHWPAmmlwb6b7yV04kkMCHv751NMzoX/s1600/026.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556627308963250882" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWwJussn_AcuMhhMJBXxzQCH0GcmHWsXPLCs4sRurTRvPBwm-WT6R2_Rf-VadlB1hQW686Guz4YOod9IZKLaYEqJLMzpfqYC4AhHFQRNExq2nvaLHWPAmmlwb6b7yV04kkMCHv751NMzoX/s320/026.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNJcIQvt9xNYL1yEqY3jMqZSKzKWTtN69bUk39eANJAkCtfBD3D7lnltNH4VIYcoIjMwoU2Bw9l22t0MgUXuH61M6vN8X4giDe_BjqYh7-zj6b0dT3hmNSQjvV8CKlP_TSQL_TbRqBd3xH/s1600/028.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556627301258148386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNJcIQvt9xNYL1yEqY3jMqZSKzKWTtN69bUk39eANJAkCtfBD3D7lnltNH4VIYcoIjMwoU2Bw9l22t0MgUXuH61M6vN8X4giDe_BjqYh7-zj6b0dT3hmNSQjvV8CKlP_TSQL_TbRqBd3xH/s320/028.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Our hall bathroom. I want to do some wide horizontal stripes, replace the vanity and replace the bone colored toilet with a more efficient model.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheoDtiz_L7YYqHaSALhZ813lLueoOnNKVYYysjzewP6UAOhtovU9MrPEWm7NDBtYxvqxGDtVdCJenG1Hn0aWNGR8qxHjFraKy-dEHWX2zTJ3uT9AirpE-FOZBedsqeiEKR07FvFxfjlWWQ/s1600/024.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556627297441867266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheoDtiz_L7YYqHaSALhZ813lLueoOnNKVYYysjzewP6UAOhtovU9MrPEWm7NDBtYxvqxGDtVdCJenG1Hn0aWNGR8qxHjFraKy-dEHWX2zTJ3uT9AirpE-FOZBedsqeiEKR07FvFxfjlWWQ/s320/024.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div>Trust me. As soon as we sign the papers, the paint brushes are coming out.<br /><br /></div><div></div></div>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-9916262163005496732010-12-28T06:43:00.001-08:002010-12-30T18:31:12.278-08:00Dear Santa, Is it too late to add something to my list?Okay, that's it! I am adding a nice camera to my must-have-wish-list. I have a point and shoot digital that just doesn't cut it. I'm ready for a Nikon or Canon so I can shoot in manual mode and get my creative on. Check out the blog below to see examples of different shots. All of the shots that they show in the 'auto with flash on mode' look like my pictures. Ick.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/images/cg_button.jpg" alt="Centsational Girl" title="Fabulous, for less" /></a><br /><br />http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2010/12/snap-even-more-photography-tips/<br /><br /><em>I'm not sure why I'm having trouble with the link above. You may just need to copy and paste it.</em>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-57014730818798883502010-12-04T15:01:00.000-08:002010-12-04T15:07:42.192-08:00Falling in Love AgainI'm not sure what happened last month. I was all settled and cozy in this house and then decided that when it came time to buy, I wanted something different. Well I'm back to feeling like this house is truly home and the best place for our family.<br /><br />So I've officially written my 2011 goals and #1 is Buy This House. Which of course means that #2 is Save Down Payment. <br /><br />So I'm back to my dream book of remodel ideas. Because, although this is a great place and feels like home, I'm dying to get my hands on some paint and new flooring.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-37602408472057544832010-11-06T11:33:00.000-07:002010-11-06T11:35:54.552-07:00A Room for Living<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtWflbbFVVVGb44WKcsnVAz-91t_LtlXxnJgIlmmx7acUAN9qP5qNPB7MgTC9aPPNj8Z7l8a625kSKduOKGCO5XQ22Rkwc-urUHnidLeHBDqibr5O_fxDQ58RSrtk6J751QrfcLkC4pfV/s1600/OB-Living+room+calm.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 318px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtWflbbFVVVGb44WKcsnVAz-91t_LtlXxnJgIlmmx7acUAN9qP5qNPB7MgTC9aPPNj8Z7l8a625kSKduOKGCO5XQ22Rkwc-urUHnidLeHBDqibr5O_fxDQ58RSrtk6J751QrfcLkC4pfV/s320/OB-Living+room+calm.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536506868858897906" /></a>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-91950519508081103842010-11-06T09:00:00.001-07:002010-11-06T09:44:33.914-07:00My First Mood BoardI created my first mood board, a fun, energetic dining room. I LOVE this program!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnpVtsOl6r6gBDbiVai87nQpM3eZ3rxhdTTpGOWqTPQaFQ31nuX1J3MFptYyd72F0hzsr4JV79yf6V2xDOp6mR00jJOxJLS84lTIlWOoYeSNks5aL2XOqFnp7nzRqj43k1cRdQKSW1Vlr_/s1600/OB-Cozy,+elegant+dining+room.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnpVtsOl6r6gBDbiVai87nQpM3eZ3rxhdTTpGOWqTPQaFQ31nuX1J3MFptYyd72F0hzsr4JV79yf6V2xDOp6mR00jJOxJLS84lTIlWOoYeSNks5aL2XOqFnp7nzRqj43k1cRdQKSW1Vlr_/s320/OB-Cozy,+elegant+dining+room.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536467524633772866" /></a><br /><br />Kendall's first mood board. So easy a 7 year old can do it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljpwbergME5VzIL8JHnQHiuVGsPLAt4IHTCeiYc599w4a8-y2M9S2WdBNuRHyxadBYEVwBd9eTraT7z6pP43SUf1_ygY4BLNoRD8cd1nkIdQJAvjTwgwAd3ClNvoTN1PsJhmHpAyuh2dP/s1600/OB-Kendall's+bedroom.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljpwbergME5VzIL8JHnQHiuVGsPLAt4IHTCeiYc599w4a8-y2M9S2WdBNuRHyxadBYEVwBd9eTraT7z6pP43SUf1_ygY4BLNoRD8cd1nkIdQJAvjTwgwAd3ClNvoTN1PsJhmHpAyuh2dP/s320/OB-Kendall's+bedroom.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536478521335796754" /></a>Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-69849152099845807642010-11-05T16:30:00.000-07:002010-11-05T17:01:49.164-07:00Isn't it funny how the universe works? I had just posted my last post about wanting a ranch-style, one level house when I found a house that just went on the market. I really shouldn't be looking right now. But it was just listed and it's darling! We go to view it on Sunday. I'm trying to be realistic and not mentally move in. But at the same time if I just visualize us living in the house....well you just never know. <br /><br />So I've been stalking the house. Is there such thing as a restraining order for stalking a house? Not only am I stalking the house, but I've been redecorating the inside, even though I haven't even seen it except in pictures.<br /><br />At the risk of other people stalking "my" house here it is:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXmIeRNgwH8U3pnf3RhUgIky77fj-MzO7X3ZF8g262GVfvSruv5_Y9zAEW5b-yxypc33APCA5L1LokhxHvdF_AAo1wSBtTDCxl1hzaP_iJBZ48aOJZNbL6HcmDHs3XgbjB6plhvu_shy6/s1600/house.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXmIeRNgwH8U3pnf3RhUgIky77fj-MzO7X3ZF8g262GVfvSruv5_Y9zAEW5b-yxypc33APCA5L1LokhxHvdF_AAo1wSBtTDCxl1hzaP_iJBZ48aOJZNbL6HcmDHs3XgbjB6plhvu_shy6/s320/house.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536213327754073618" /></a><br /><br />I do know that the exterior is darling and the interior needs some updating. I love a project, or two, or three. <br /><br />This is what I'm loving recently:<br /><br />This cozy, elegant dining room from this great designer. http://jentrified.blogspot.com/2010/07/dallas-palace-is-done.html (just copy and paste it into your browser. I can't get my links to work)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQw5eyGyYf8JaEID7WGnEFItssh_DLJ8eKvNadhj0lmO61zSPRjBAKwG_6y3flB5Cl8mT-wDr6dtuksum9b8nrr0mTxABSym7hcQysJqgu8_qiN4n-n-_ney8QbRg2QJFki7-H5jV9eiTT/s1600/dining+room.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQw5eyGyYf8JaEID7WGnEFItssh_DLJ8eKvNadhj0lmO61zSPRjBAKwG_6y3flB5Cl8mT-wDr6dtuksum9b8nrr0mTxABSym7hcQysJqgu8_qiN4n-n-_ney8QbRg2QJFki7-H5jV9eiTT/s320/dining+room.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536217385452595010" /></a><br /><br />These great built-ins to make the best use of a small space found here <br />http://ourhumbleabowed.wordpress.com/the-grand-tour/<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHir6iJuot9-cFQuCrk5UrhYyLJBToDjgSdQUMq3Yprv_jeRB0oWT7M2miAMYGAaobjdU51U_0w3O5qg8ZGuX-1JMHGsrTQrvtHXJb8CJ8GpHvg2k97s8qYJliDS-9U9X_hOOfc-MtrrRv/s1600/builtins.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHir6iJuot9-cFQuCrk5UrhYyLJBToDjgSdQUMq3Yprv_jeRB0oWT7M2miAMYGAaobjdU51U_0w3O5qg8ZGuX-1JMHGsrTQrvtHXJb8CJ8GpHvg2k97s8qYJliDS-9U9X_hOOfc-MtrrRv/s320/builtins.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536217381252620978" /></a><br /><br />This ultra-glam beaded wallpaper for a stunning powder room from here <br />http://wallpaperweekly.com/?tag=glass-bead-wallpaper<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8X_s4AK1cAjpwhiwhfx7AOQTTX5VUGQnubhakBLN6bn35z_VOLjv3t2GKOoD8kO_xbOWDCEu-S0dpatNLc91EQ_6HZ4m5JTvh-7SP5lSAGXZjhc1nOBrvQ_LhfwfEy2czAWv1soxNF9Iz/s1600/gleamingglass-collection.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8X_s4AK1cAjpwhiwhfx7AOQTTX5VUGQnubhakBLN6bn35z_VOLjv3t2GKOoD8kO_xbOWDCEu-S0dpatNLc91EQ_6HZ4m5JTvh-7SP5lSAGXZjhc1nOBrvQ_LhfwfEy2czAWv1soxNF9Iz/s320/gleamingglass-collection.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536217392845984514" /></a><br /><br />There is more, much more. Oh the possiblities.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-31821024951566314702010-10-30T16:02:00.001-07:002010-10-30T16:17:28.994-07:00ConflictedThe home we live in now is not ours, we rent. The owner would like us to buy it but we are conflicted. He hasn't told us the asking price but we do know he is a bit upside down in the house which is probably the biggest reason we hesitate to mentally buy this place. I've put a lot of thought into it and here are my pros and cons:<br /><br /><strong>Staying Here:</strong><br />~No moving expenses<br />~No moving hassle (isn't that worth like a million bucks?!)<br />~We feel comfortable here<br />~We know what we would do to update the home, we've (okay, I've) got it all mapped out in my head. <br />~Land and space so we aren't crowded.<br /><br /><strong>Moving:</strong><br />~Land. I'm not sure I want to be responsible for almost 3 acres. And I kind of like living in a neighborhood.<br />~Less expensive options. Maybe.<br />~Less updating. Maybe. Although, for some reason, I am usually attracted to the ugliest house on the block and have lots of great ideas. This drives Dylan crazy.<br />~One level. I've wanted a one level house for a long time. The last three homes we have lived in have been two levels. I would like a spacious rambler. <br /><br />Something along the lines of this!<br /><a href="http://retrorenovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/nov-18.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://retrorenovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/nov-18.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Right now we are in a house that looks like this:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoAYaHflG2_LVTc-0s5xWZ4W9WPmbPi_OPkYQj2VeG2wn2G1tK3TQAZ-gX2K4escK3_3cFfhRhxHuGNn_ABmxhFW9ST61SwIupf2iQg3TUjwKDlmHA4Jr9Ei1PEKeTIbaISqh249BKfpW/s1600/Picture+042.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoAYaHflG2_LVTc-0s5xWZ4W9WPmbPi_OPkYQj2VeG2wn2G1tK3TQAZ-gX2K4escK3_3cFfhRhxHuGNn_ABmxhFW9ST61SwIupf2iQg3TUjwKDlmHA4Jr9Ei1PEKeTIbaISqh249BKfpW/s320/Picture+042.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533981677044667634" /></a><br /><br />The house needs a ton of updates; all new flooring, walls moved, kitchen redone, bathrooms redone, light fixtures redone, exterior lighting installed. I could go on. <br /><br />I tend to obesses about things. I'm trying not to obsess and trying to allow things to happen as they are meant to.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-45876420337212118462010-10-16T08:25:00.000-07:002010-10-16T08:33:58.975-07:00Baking BreadI live in the country. I should be able to make a decent loaf of bread. I borrowed the bread machine from my Mom. I bought all of the healthy ingredients. And I was ready to bake several loaves a week so that we wouldn't have to buy processed bread from the store again or go broke buying the healthy stuff.<br /><br />Attempt #1: Dense brick that slightly resembled bread.<br />Attempt #2: Not quite as dense but still gross brick that slightly resembled bread.<br /><br />Now I could buy the premade bread mixes but what's the point? Those are $4 a pop. I might as well go to the natural section of the grocery store and pay $4 a loaf for good bread.<br /><br />Well, I'll give it another try. I live in the country. I have to be able to do this!Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-89825986132413458702010-09-08T19:16:00.001-07:002010-09-08T19:39:30.505-07:00Garden GirlAfter receiving a vote of no confidence from Kendall in the spring I am happy to say that our first garden was mostly successful. <br /><br />As I was planting strawberries in May this was our conversation:<br /><br />Kendall: Oh no. We're....<br />Me: What's up? Is everything okay? (I could see the stress on her face)<br />Kendall: Nevermind.....Well....Well, we're going to have to get grandma over here. You're just not good at this kind of thing. <br />Me: What? You don't think I can grow a garden? You'll see. At the end of summer you are going to be so proud of me.<br /><br />Okay, so the strawberries never grew. My Mother-in-Law said it best when she asked, while sqinting her eyes, "What did you plant, strawberry seeds?". <br /><br />But the rest of the garden took off without a hitch. Well except for the corn that turned out not to be corn. Getting excited about the corn that popped up even though we didn't plant corn was a little hopeful. We watered and nurtured that stuff. It grew and grew. But when we got to Albuquerque for vacation and saw the corn they were growing there, we knew we did not have corn at all. When we got home I promptly googled 'weed that looks like corn'. What do you know?! We were growing millet and boy did we have a good crop! <br /><br />Really though, we've had some luck. We have huge cucumber,carrots, peppers, onions, lettuce and a ton of pumpkins. <br /><br />Kendall has more confidence in us now. We will definitely do vegetables again, we will try our luck at strawberries and even some market flowers. I'm looking forward to the next growing season.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-73561677574470813072010-09-04T06:51:00.000-07:002010-09-04T06:54:56.620-07:00Genius ParentingSometimes I can't believe I get paid for what I do, working with young children and teachers. I get to laugh out loud every day. Today it was this conversation:<br /><br />Jane (name changed to protect the hilarious): I'm allergic to boys.<br />Teacher: (laughing) Who told you that?<br />Jane: My Daddy.<br />Teacher: I thought so (still laughing).<br />Jane: Well, I'm not allergic to these boys. I'm allergic to boys I don't know.<br /><br />That dad is a genius I tell you. I promptly went home and told K & T that they are allergic to boys. They didn't buy it. Damn, I should have tried it when they were younger.Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-75209895935217078842010-07-29T10:50:00.000-07:002010-07-29T11:02:30.422-07:00Those cringe-worthy mom momentsI had one of those moments last night. The kind when you are playing with your two girls, giggling and rolling around on the bed. And then your one girl misjudges where she is and goes head first into the corner of the night stand. She holds her head and says over and over "I'm okay. I'm okay. I'm okay. I just need to cry a little bit". And then you hope that she's right and it's just a bonk but something tells you that's not the case. Your gut is telling you to pick her up off the pillow and when you do you see the blood, coming from the top of her head. <br /><br />Yes, I had one of those cringe-worthy mom moments. Stay calm. Get dressed. Get her dressed. Get into the car and head to the hospital. All the while trying to not let your heart break as she is so scared about everything that is happening. She clings to every word you say. "Are you sure it's a little one?" "What do you think they will do for it?" "Will it hurt?" "How old were you when you got stitches?". And then when you pull up you can hear the panic in her voice and the tears start to flow again "We're going to the HOSPITAL? Why are we going to the HOSPITAL?". Because when her sister got stitches two years ago, her doctor's office was open and they did it very calmly and quietly there.<br /><br />You hope the Emergency Department isn't packed and that you can get seen quickly. And you do. An angel of a nurse comes in and gets your little girl to smile and look forward to a popsicle at the end of her visit. Every once in a while, when the numbing medicine is sitting on her head, the shaking, nervous questions and tears come again. And when the doctor comes in and says that she is going to put a couple of staples in your child's head you don't panic on the outside but you are freaking out on the inside, trying to keep your child calm as you carefully question the doctor about the benefits of staples over stitches. <br /><br />And in the end, an injection to numb the laceration and two staples later, your little girl is shaking like a leaf eating her grape popsicle and trying to process what just happened. The tears and shaky words come and go in spurts. But she falls asleep quickly once she's home and wakes up feeling great the next morning. <br /><br />Kids are amazing!Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-39357228748757688392010-04-20T17:42:00.001-07:002010-04-20T17:47:13.825-07:00The funny things they sayThe girls are both at such funny stages right now. Yesterday I picked K up from first grade. I noticed a coffee stand that had gone out of business and made a comment about it. K said "I wish schools would go out of business". I said "That wouldn't be good. Who would educate our young?". She quickly responded "I know everything I need to know. And I have a calculator". <br /><br />So there you have it. All you need is a first grade education and a calculator and you're set.<br /><br />This morning T was miss grumpy pants. I was trying to cheer her up by playing I Spy on the way to school. She was pretty quick and got most of them right. Until I got to "I spy something that can be very stinky". She blurted "Butt". "Um I was thinking garbage can". "Well butts and shoes are stinky". "Yes thank you for that little lesson T".Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-77020255227136925922010-02-22T18:53:00.000-08:002010-02-22T18:58:31.214-08:00I refuse to be a muffinI admit it. I've rode the "I just had a baby......(4 years ago)" train long enough. I kept waiting for my body to bounce back like it did after my first pregnancy. But I guess when you are 37, that just doesn't happen. The muffin top is here to stay unless I get my butt moving.<br /><br />Luckily it looks like Spring has come a little early. It's been beautiful. I started running around the park by my work. I can't wait for the crumbs to start falling off my body. This had better work!Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5527781257896081000.post-30262279828144763442010-02-22T18:47:00.000-08:002010-02-22T18:49:43.516-08:00What did you say?!T is four years old and she's a genius when it comes to anatomy. This weekend she looked in the mirror with a flashlight and said "Look Mom. I have a nipple on my face". Is it bad that I made her repeat herself seven times before telling her that I think she meant pimple?Stacie@hometownperchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052347642337564485noreply@blogger.com0