I absolutely love Thanksgiving! What could be better than to enjoy good food and company? The reason why I enjoy Thanksgiving so much is, it's day dedicated to pausing, and acknowledging the wonderful things in our lives.
This year's holiday is particularly meaningful for me, for two reasons, my husband has the day off and we were spared during the snow storm that struck Buffalo, New York. Many, many families in my community have lost their homes and are now bracing for flooding. In addition, to the loss of homes, some families have had to deal with the loss of their loved ones. Sadly, this storm claimed the lives of several members of our community.
All this snow and wintery weather got me thinking about the things I'm grateful for. So, I decided to compile a list, a grateful list!
My grateful list:
My husband, friends and family.
My health
The wisdom to recognize the changes I need to make in my life and the courage to take the necessary steps.
My cats- my little curmudgeon Piper and my imp like Toby.
My home- it's my sanctuary and it makes me smile
Manicures, pedicures and happy hour!
Coffee!!!
There is so much more I can add- but I don't to bore anyone!
What are some things you're all grateful for?
Monday, November 24, 2014
Monday, October 27, 2014
Golden Anniversary Celebration!
Recently, I was asked to host my parents, 50th anniversary party. Hosting this event was quite intimidating, because of how much this day meant to them. I wanted it to be special.
While the crowd was small, less than twenty people, age and tastes varied. This also meant that I was on the hook for most of the cooking, cleaning and prep work. Not to mention creating a menu that suited all aged family members.
Celebrating a Golden Anniversary is so much more than a meal. I wanted to celebrate their life, marriage and family, while including my siblings and their ideas. My sister collected various pictures from the time my parents started dating to the birth of their grandchildren. She had them professionally printed onto poster board that we displayed throughout the house.
My husband prepared a special garlic and herb crusted rub for the prime rib and prepared it to perfection, while my sister-in-law put her outstanding baking skills to use with her famous caramel salted pear tarts! Amazing!
The end result was a low-key, yet elegant event that celebrated family and love!
The Menu:
Drinks:
Champagne, Mimosas, Mint infused water, and San Pellegrino Limonata
Appetizers:
Assorted cheeses and antipasti
Mixed field greens salad
Parmesan crusted cauliflower
First Course:
Lobster Risotto
Second Course:
Prime Rib
Dessert:
Caramel salted pear tart
White cassata cake
While the crowd was small, less than twenty people, age and tastes varied. This also meant that I was on the hook for most of the cooking, cleaning and prep work. Not to mention creating a menu that suited all aged family members.
Celebrating a Golden Anniversary is so much more than a meal. I wanted to celebrate their life, marriage and family, while including my siblings and their ideas. My sister collected various pictures from the time my parents started dating to the birth of their grandchildren. She had them professionally printed onto poster board that we displayed throughout the house.
My husband prepared a special garlic and herb crusted rub for the prime rib and prepared it to perfection, while my sister-in-law put her outstanding baking skills to use with her famous caramel salted pear tarts! Amazing!
The end result was a low-key, yet elegant event that celebrated family and love!
The Menu:
Drinks:
Champagne, Mimosas, Mint infused water, and San Pellegrino Limonata
Appetizers:
Assorted cheeses and antipasti
Mixed field greens salad
Parmesan crusted cauliflower
First Course:
Lobster Risotto
Second Course:
Prime Rib
Dessert:
Caramel salted pear tart
White cassata cake
 |
| Garlic and Herb Rub: Garlic, Rosemary and Thyme homegrown from the garden! |
 |
| Fall colors were perfect for a golden anniversary! |
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
DONE!!
It's hard to believe that I have waited three long months to write this entry! It's done...Finally! I would be remiss if I didn't "THANK" Travis Holloway of Travco Remodeling, for his amazing work and dedication. We couldn't have asked for better results.
Pictures just don't do it justice! What was done:
1. Complete replacement of siding and insulation on back additions
2. Clapboard and trim replaced throughout
3. New insulation
4. Replaced outdoor lighting
5. All trim and dental molding painted white
6. New wood pillars, shutters and mailbox
7. Repaired front flower box
8. Replaced all damaged storm windows
9. Replaced front entrance trim
10. Painted inner entrance blue
Lessons Learned:
1. Extensively research material costs even if you don't think you'll be replacing them. I ended up replacing far more than I expected and pricing as I went along. I would have liked to have been better prepared.
2. Ask about material warranties and request the documentation. Lumber yards will boast about lifetime warranties on materials, but are unwilling or unable to tell you exactly what that means. Call the manufacturers and get the details. Ask what their definition of "lifetime" is, and what you should do if the materials don't live up to their warranty. This should also be done with the paint.
3. Communicate your expectations and your understanding of the project with your contractor.
4. Keep a case of wine or beer handy for both you and your contractor!
 |
| Sherwin Williams: SW 7604 Smoky Blue/ cool/neutral |
Pictures just don't do it justice! What was done:
1. Complete replacement of siding and insulation on back additions
2. Clapboard and trim replaced throughout
3. New insulation
4. Replaced outdoor lighting
5. All trim and dental molding painted white
6. New wood pillars, shutters and mailbox
7. Repaired front flower box
8. Replaced all damaged storm windows
9. Replaced front entrance trim
10. Painted inner entrance blue
Lessons Learned:
1. Extensively research material costs even if you don't think you'll be replacing them. I ended up replacing far more than I expected and pricing as I went along. I would have liked to have been better prepared.
2. Ask about material warranties and request the documentation. Lumber yards will boast about lifetime warranties on materials, but are unwilling or unable to tell you exactly what that means. Call the manufacturers and get the details. Ask what their definition of "lifetime" is, and what you should do if the materials don't live up to their warranty. This should also be done with the paint.
3. Communicate your expectations and your understanding of the project with your contractor.
4. Keep a case of wine or beer handy for both you and your contractor!
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Post Traumatic Home Repair Syndrome?
It's become apparent I have developed a severe case of Post Traumatic Home Repair Syndrome, my husband is also a victim! I cringe every time my contractor says, I have to talk to you! I reach for my wallet and anticipate the worst.
When we decided to paint the house we never thought that it would turn into a full blown exterior makeover. Yes, of course we anticipated replacing some cedar clapboards, we had budgeted a couple thousand dollars for the materials. We carefully looked over the house with our contractor to identify potential trouble spots. We felt well prepared going in. We were all wrong. The hidden problems kept on coming! I'm a perfectionist and it's the little details that I always notice. Little details add up! Mind you, I don't regret replacing a single piece of trim, shutters, pillars, mailboxes, door knockers and lighting! What I do regret is underestimating my penchant for uttering the words replace all of it.
When you own an old home you have to learn to accept that it won't ever be perfect. The walls are never going to be straight, the wood will have marks on it. I'm afraid, I haven't come to grips with that reality. Yet, I love my old home, I wouldn't trade it for anything! I also believe that I have to respect the character and construction of the house and I will always replace the high quality materials used in the 1920s with high quality materials. After this makeover I'm confident this house will stand for another hundred years!
On another note, while on Pintrist last night I found an old picture of my house right before we bought it. It was on a website that highlighted the old homes of Buffalo, NY. This picture reminds me of why I bought this house. I love it, it's beautiful, it's my home! I can't wait to share my final exterior makeover picture!
When we decided to paint the house we never thought that it would turn into a full blown exterior makeover. Yes, of course we anticipated replacing some cedar clapboards, we had budgeted a couple thousand dollars for the materials. We carefully looked over the house with our contractor to identify potential trouble spots. We felt well prepared going in. We were all wrong. The hidden problems kept on coming! I'm a perfectionist and it's the little details that I always notice. Little details add up! Mind you, I don't regret replacing a single piece of trim, shutters, pillars, mailboxes, door knockers and lighting! What I do regret is underestimating my penchant for uttering the words replace all of it.
When you own an old home you have to learn to accept that it won't ever be perfect. The walls are never going to be straight, the wood will have marks on it. I'm afraid, I haven't come to grips with that reality. Yet, I love my old home, I wouldn't trade it for anything! I also believe that I have to respect the character and construction of the house and I will always replace the high quality materials used in the 1920s with high quality materials. After this makeover I'm confident this house will stand for another hundred years!
On another note, while on Pintrist last night I found an old picture of my house right before we bought it. It was on a website that highlighted the old homes of Buffalo, NY. This picture reminds me of why I bought this house. I love it, it's beautiful, it's my home! I can't wait to share my final exterior makeover picture!
Monday, August 25, 2014
A Few Thoughts.....
Work on the house continues, progress has been a bit hampered by materials that are on backorder! I also have a habit of uttering the words, "replace all of it", which leads to more materials having to be special ordered! Note to self, in the future purchase less of a "special" house.
To add more excitement to the mix, today I start classes again. This is all so overwhelming right now! I'm working full-time, rehabbing a house, and going back to school. I'm very much looking forward to embarking on this journey, I know I made the right decision to make this change, but right now I feel like I have way too much on my plate.
I know that once the house is done I'll feel a lot better and so will my husband.
This transition feels a bit like a slow breakup. For the next year I'm reporting to a job that I'm transitioning out of. I'm committed to fulfilling my contractual obligations, but at the same time I want to fully devote myself to my future.
For now I'm going to keep plugging away, doing the very best that I can do! If I need a rest I'll take it! I'm in this for the long haul and burn out is not an option!
To add more excitement to the mix, today I start classes again. This is all so overwhelming right now! I'm working full-time, rehabbing a house, and going back to school. I'm very much looking forward to embarking on this journey, I know I made the right decision to make this change, but right now I feel like I have way too much on my plate.
I know that once the house is done I'll feel a lot better and so will my husband.
This transition feels a bit like a slow breakup. For the next year I'm reporting to a job that I'm transitioning out of. I'm committed to fulfilling my contractual obligations, but at the same time I want to fully devote myself to my future.
For now I'm going to keep plugging away, doing the very best that I can do! If I need a rest I'll take it! I'm in this for the long haul and burn out is not an option!
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
On a Brighter Note....
It's amazing what a difference a day makes. Prior to leaving for work yesterday I couldn't help, but to feel discouraged given the state of disrepair my house was in. Normally, I take home improvement projects in stride. I'm usually excited to see the progress and I eager to start the next one.
It certainly hasn't been the case this time around.
I can't begin to express the sense of relief I felt pulling up to my house and seeing the new siding on the front. The transformation is amazing and I can't wait to see how nice the rest of the house is going to look after the painting is done and the new shutters are installed! On a side note: The siding of my house is cedar including the new boards.
It certainly hasn't been the case this time around.
I can't begin to express the sense of relief I felt pulling up to my house and seeing the new siding on the front. The transformation is amazing and I can't wait to see how nice the rest of the house is going to look after the painting is done and the new shutters are installed! On a side note: The siding of my house is cedar including the new boards.
 |
| One last board! |
 |
| Front siding replacement is complete! |
Monday, August 11, 2014
Tales of the Money Pit!
It's August and the painting of the house is still not complete! This is in no way a reflection of the contractor, but rather a series of unfortunate events. Quite frankly, it's been an utter and complete nightmare.
In my earlier posts I may have mention that the previous owners of the home subscribed to a deferred maintenance policy. At the time of purchase at least thirty years had passed since routine maintenance had been completed. Leaks in the roof were hidden with additional ceilings, for example I have three in the bathroom! Leaking gutters were patched, never replaced. Serious water damage was a result.
The process of scraping the old paint, caused more than just paint to flake off. They found that some boards underneath were being held to together paint. At times the clapboard was reduced to powder or saw dust. The brutal winters of Buffalo, New York could very well have caused the front outside walls to collapse, under the weight of the moisture and snow. So while it's been very stressful to find this level of water damage, it would have been disastrous if we hadn't commenced the paint job.
In addition, to extensive water damage honeybees were also discovered! They had built a hive behind the rotted boards. I'm deeply sadden by the fact that we weren't able to relocate the hive. As the contractors removed the rotten boards, they found their way into the upstairs of the house. They also began swarming the crew! We were in no position to wait for a beekeeper to remove the bees, sadly many likely perished.
In my earlier posts I may have mention that the previous owners of the home subscribed to a deferred maintenance policy. At the time of purchase at least thirty years had passed since routine maintenance had been completed. Leaks in the roof were hidden with additional ceilings, for example I have three in the bathroom! Leaking gutters were patched, never replaced. Serious water damage was a result.
The process of scraping the old paint, caused more than just paint to flake off. They found that some boards underneath were being held to together paint. At times the clapboard was reduced to powder or saw dust. The brutal winters of Buffalo, New York could very well have caused the front outside walls to collapse, under the weight of the moisture and snow. So while it's been very stressful to find this level of water damage, it would have been disastrous if we hadn't commenced the paint job.
In addition, to extensive water damage honeybees were also discovered! They had built a hive behind the rotted boards. I'm deeply sadden by the fact that we weren't able to relocate the hive. As the contractors removed the rotten boards, they found their way into the upstairs of the house. They also began swarming the crew! We were in no position to wait for a beekeeper to remove the bees, sadly many likely perished.
 |
| The grim discovery of the rotted boards. |
 |
| Repair of the rotten headers and boards. |
 |
| Extensive progress on the back of the house |
 |
| Completed fire pit and landscaping |
 |
| Torsten and I decided to try our hand at landscaping! Not bad for a couple of amateurs. |
Let the painting commence!
I've been so eager to paint my house, really since I signed on the dotted line. I envisioned heather gray, with black and white trim and a deep purple door front door.
After several trips to Sherwin- Williams and many samples of gray. I've/we've come to the realization, that my vision may have been a bit flawed. My husband (Torsten) and decided to walk around the neighborhood and we noticed several houses are painted gray. I'm not sure if it's a case of selective perception or if there really are a lot of gray houses. The other factor that has come into consideration is the fact there are very few blue houses in the neighborhood. Our house has always been blue. When we describe our home to friends and family we always refer to it as the blue colonial.
Now that we decided to keep the exterior blue we have to decide on a shade! So far here is what we have come up with:
After several trips to Sherwin- Williams and many samples of gray. I've/we've come to the realization, that my vision may have been a bit flawed. My husband (Torsten) and decided to walk around the neighborhood and we noticed several houses are painted gray. I'm not sure if it's a case of selective perception or if there really are a lot of gray houses. The other factor that has come into consideration is the fact there are very few blue houses in the neighborhood. Our house has always been blue. When we describe our home to friends and family we always refer to it as the blue colonial.
Now that we decided to keep the exterior blue we have to decide on a shade! So far here is what we have come up with:
 |
| After Much thought and deliberation- Smokey Blue the color above the two gray boards emerged as the winner. |
 |
| Relaxing in Ponte Vedra, Florida before the painting begins. |
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| Beautiful Sunrise in Ponte Vedra, Florida. |
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
One Step at a Time!
Summer is finally here! I don't know what it is about waking up to a beautiful sunny day, but it always manages to give me an extra spring to my step!
I recently celebrated my birthday- I couldn't have asked for a better day. I can't thank my husband enough for planning such a wonderful day. I was able to celebrate with both my friends and family- I'm very fortunate to have so many beautiful people in my life.
For the summer 2014 I have several projects that I'm working on! Nothing makes me happier than working on my house and me! The landscaping will commence in a few short weeks, as will the painting. I've already begun to scrape. I will post before pictures shortly. We are doing a color change on the house from blue to gray. I haven't picked out my colors yet- Yikes! I better make my way to the paint store!
The landscaping really excites me, it's going to be glorious to walk into my backyard relax by our newly built fire pit and admire the beautiful flower beds!
My backyard is rather large and I find the amount of work that needs to be done overwhelming! My landscaper thankfully sees a blank canvas, I hope he still feels that way once he actually tackles the work! My home is my sanctuary and I desperately need green space that allows me to relax, entertain and to just be!
On the career front I'm a enrolled in two online courses! This is a first for me, I'm a bit old school in that I have always leaned towards traditional learning methods. So far, so good though. Online courses offer a lot of flexibility which is exactly what I need. In many ways this journey is a gut check, do I have the motivation to walk the walk?! So far I do! Not sure if this discipline comes with age, or maybe it's the realization that the word 'can't' isn't an option!
Pictures to follow soon! In meantime I'll be sitting barefoot in the grass with my biology and chemistry books!
I recently celebrated my birthday- I couldn't have asked for a better day. I can't thank my husband enough for planning such a wonderful day. I was able to celebrate with both my friends and family- I'm very fortunate to have so many beautiful people in my life.
For the summer 2014 I have several projects that I'm working on! Nothing makes me happier than working on my house and me! The landscaping will commence in a few short weeks, as will the painting. I've already begun to scrape. I will post before pictures shortly. We are doing a color change on the house from blue to gray. I haven't picked out my colors yet- Yikes! I better make my way to the paint store!
The landscaping really excites me, it's going to be glorious to walk into my backyard relax by our newly built fire pit and admire the beautiful flower beds!
My backyard is rather large and I find the amount of work that needs to be done overwhelming! My landscaper thankfully sees a blank canvas, I hope he still feels that way once he actually tackles the work! My home is my sanctuary and I desperately need green space that allows me to relax, entertain and to just be!
On the career front I'm a enrolled in two online courses! This is a first for me, I'm a bit old school in that I have always leaned towards traditional learning methods. So far, so good though. Online courses offer a lot of flexibility which is exactly what I need. In many ways this journey is a gut check, do I have the motivation to walk the walk?! So far I do! Not sure if this discipline comes with age, or maybe it's the realization that the word 'can't' isn't an option!
Pictures to follow soon! In meantime I'll be sitting barefoot in the grass with my biology and chemistry books!
Monday, May 19, 2014
A Long Absence
Some time ago I promised myself that I would write at least twice a week. A lot has happened since my last post. Quite a bit of soul searching and a complete reawakening.
I spent the first two weeks of the new year in China, as I did the year before. I don't know what it is about China, but every time I visit, it changes me in ways I never anticipate. Things have a funny way of falling into place becoming clear when you step out of your normal routine and disconnect from the internet, Facebook, and email.
I decided to devote some of the energy I threw into renovating my home into my making over my life. I stopped biting my nails, a rather embarrassing habit I've had since I was about three years old. I was so afraid of getting sick while in China, I didn't dare put my fingers anywhere near my mouth. I felt a lot less anxious in China and I wasn't consumed by silly distractions. I was still and present. I simply stopped biting my nails, when I felt the urge I redirected my thoughts. It was simple and yet one of the hardest things I have ever done. I thought about the things that I don't like about myself, like my crooked teeth, or how I don't always take the best care of myself. I decided to straighten my teeth, lose ten pounds- very easy to do in China. I don't care much for the food, but it's also not as rich as American cuisine. I found a new hair stylist and.....
I also came to the conclusion it was time to make a career change- a big one. I've enjoyed much success, I always have and I always will, that is who I am. I realize this may sound arrogant, but I don't intend to be. I'm not special- far from it, I just don't view as failure as an option. I have failed, but the way I see it is, losing a battle doesn't mean you have lost the war!
It's ironic that when I was twenty five years old working in a corporate setting I felt trapped, so I enrolled in graduate school and embarked on a new career.
I loved my new job, my role, but now I don't. In fact I can't get out of this profession fast enough. I felt like a failure, I questioned why I couldn't just be content. According to society, I have it all and realize I do. I'm very grateful for all the things I have and the goals I have accomplished, but that doesn't mean I don't get to change my mind. Why I should feel guilty for having these feelings? Yes, I have job security, I get paid a decent salary, I have good benefits. I don't take these things lightly, but I want something else.
The truth is when I was in college I always loved science. Science was and still is my frenemy. I started my college career in Biology and ended it in Cultural Anthropology. I love Anthropology it's a perfect blend of science and humanity. I enjoyed it and came easy to me, I could go out and do the things I loved and still make the grade. As I matured my old frenemy reminded me how I gave up too easily on our "friendship" and I realized I needed to mend that fence. After much thought soul searching, I have decided to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant (PA). This is a leap for me as I'm currently an administrator at a large college.
I can't ignore the excitement I feel at the thought of becoming a PA. Before I can officially enroll in my degree program I need to complete 30 credit hours of prerequisites. I'm happy to say I completed my first course in chemistry and I'm enrolled in two summer school courses.
I know this means, working full time, going to school part time, tending to my marriage and of course still working on my house. I have made a lot progress there too! It was featured in a historic tours of homes. The downstairs is completely renovated and refurnished. The upstairs is painted and the floors have been refinished. We replaced the gutters and installed a new fence. All we have left to renovate are two large bathrooms and the attic!
For the summer we're going to paint the outside of the house, landscape the back and build a custom fire pit. I will share pictures once those projects are started.
I hope to share this journey with you all. I know what I'm doing is going to be incredibly difficult and I'm sure I will question my sanity for taking this leap, but I know it's the right path for me. The excitement I feel is electric and that's the feeling I'm going to put in my pocket during chemistry class. Sadly, I still don't like chemistry!
I spent the first two weeks of the new year in China, as I did the year before. I don't know what it is about China, but every time I visit, it changes me in ways I never anticipate. Things have a funny way of falling into place becoming clear when you step out of your normal routine and disconnect from the internet, Facebook, and email.
I decided to devote some of the energy I threw into renovating my home into my making over my life. I stopped biting my nails, a rather embarrassing habit I've had since I was about three years old. I was so afraid of getting sick while in China, I didn't dare put my fingers anywhere near my mouth. I felt a lot less anxious in China and I wasn't consumed by silly distractions. I was still and present. I simply stopped biting my nails, when I felt the urge I redirected my thoughts. It was simple and yet one of the hardest things I have ever done. I thought about the things that I don't like about myself, like my crooked teeth, or how I don't always take the best care of myself. I decided to straighten my teeth, lose ten pounds- very easy to do in China. I don't care much for the food, but it's also not as rich as American cuisine. I found a new hair stylist and.....
I also came to the conclusion it was time to make a career change- a big one. I've enjoyed much success, I always have and I always will, that is who I am. I realize this may sound arrogant, but I don't intend to be. I'm not special- far from it, I just don't view as failure as an option. I have failed, but the way I see it is, losing a battle doesn't mean you have lost the war!
It's ironic that when I was twenty five years old working in a corporate setting I felt trapped, so I enrolled in graduate school and embarked on a new career.
I loved my new job, my role, but now I don't. In fact I can't get out of this profession fast enough. I felt like a failure, I questioned why I couldn't just be content. According to society, I have it all and realize I do. I'm very grateful for all the things I have and the goals I have accomplished, but that doesn't mean I don't get to change my mind. Why I should feel guilty for having these feelings? Yes, I have job security, I get paid a decent salary, I have good benefits. I don't take these things lightly, but I want something else.
The truth is when I was in college I always loved science. Science was and still is my frenemy. I started my college career in Biology and ended it in Cultural Anthropology. I love Anthropology it's a perfect blend of science and humanity. I enjoyed it and came easy to me, I could go out and do the things I loved and still make the grade. As I matured my old frenemy reminded me how I gave up too easily on our "friendship" and I realized I needed to mend that fence. After much thought soul searching, I have decided to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant (PA). This is a leap for me as I'm currently an administrator at a large college.
I can't ignore the excitement I feel at the thought of becoming a PA. Before I can officially enroll in my degree program I need to complete 30 credit hours of prerequisites. I'm happy to say I completed my first course in chemistry and I'm enrolled in two summer school courses.
I know this means, working full time, going to school part time, tending to my marriage and of course still working on my house. I have made a lot progress there too! It was featured in a historic tours of homes. The downstairs is completely renovated and refurnished. The upstairs is painted and the floors have been refinished. We replaced the gutters and installed a new fence. All we have left to renovate are two large bathrooms and the attic!
For the summer we're going to paint the outside of the house, landscape the back and build a custom fire pit. I will share pictures once those projects are started.
I hope to share this journey with you all. I know what I'm doing is going to be incredibly difficult and I'm sure I will question my sanity for taking this leap, but I know it's the right path for me. The excitement I feel is electric and that's the feeling I'm going to put in my pocket during chemistry class. Sadly, I still don't like chemistry!
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