tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59393641091341679122024-03-20T02:42:25.631-07:00Our First NVHome: The Townhouse EditionOur journey building an Andrew Carnegie!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-67667763932927853162016-03-17T11:20:00.000-07:002016-03-17T11:20:09.697-07:00Announcing Team Green On St. Patrick's Day + Updates! <div style="text-align: justify;">
Well hello hello! It has been a little while since I last made <i><b>any</b></i> type of post...but I can explain! At the beginning of the year, I was at my sickest point...ever...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiwrUjA4-VWr2S0aKLhyyIhwHU724UhJ5UuQRk1V1hq1yBDFBsopykJMwpCCD_T1MQ5oPV_9CCLYZBlHweL1246UM2dCHLtjPXNpp3OcFXVdYis3yYX-44F0HzhCITxIfP2iZtXcbbfds/s1600/IMG_6007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiwrUjA4-VWr2S0aKLhyyIhwHU724UhJ5UuQRk1V1hq1yBDFBsopykJMwpCCD_T1MQ5oPV_9CCLYZBlHweL1246UM2dCHLtjPXNpp3OcFXVdYis3yYX-44F0HzhCITxIfP2iZtXcbbfds/s200/IMG_6007.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Baby bump drink <br />sponsored by: <a href="http://myheymama.com/">Hey Mama Teas</a> </i></b></td></tr>
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...why? Because we are expecting our first little baby in July! We are soooo excited to welcome this blessing, and while it was really rough at first, I am feeling much better now and ready to take on more projects! We get asked all the time what we are having and we decided long ago that we would find out on his/her birthday. <span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b>#TeamGreen</b></span> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nHopySqM0OH3PfF3Xo95KovUSCwI1btnr2cVg9LaRsDcjwFNx-Lh3fnkBv7ZUGGa3vnSZNiLEIwLpqyR6nZlnqH7v9rBYU1WezO4ModfapH33lpKiZ-eZSob0XcRQ4cuIoHofhtJDLgp/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nHopySqM0OH3PfF3Xo95KovUSCwI1btnr2cVg9LaRsDcjwFNx-Lh3fnkBv7ZUGGa3vnSZNiLEIwLpqyR6nZlnqH7v9rBYU1WezO4ModfapH33lpKiZ-eZSob0XcRQ4cuIoHofhtJDLgp/s200/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.target.com/p/never-grow-up-throw-pillow-20-x12-multicolor-pillowfort/-/A-50083520#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=never+grow+up"><b><i>Pillowfort by Target</i></b></a></td></tr>
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So since I have last spoken with all of you, I have started back at the gym (slowly due to my doctor's orders), had a fence installed, started the decoration madness of a nursery, spent more money than planned at Target (<i>have you all seen the <a href="http://www.target.com/c/oh-joy-brand-shop/-/N-4ut8c#?lnk=snav_rd_oh_joy">Oh Joy</a> and <a href="http://www.target.com/c/pillowfort-brand-shop/-/N-4vp6f#?lnk=snav_rd_pillowfort">Pillowfort</a> lines for kids and home decor?</i>), went on a few quick trips with my hunny bunny, and most recently, had a successful girls trip to New Orleans! As soon as I started to feel better, I was ready to jump on a flight and get the heck out of town! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDR9c8N38QeZnHVIpNy0Z11cpTkKnhkRwQ475sI3lF4_omCIgIePB-iKWWwCk8BgA0groO_cCnywHRypHaqpzPRv7oOzmH45e8wjrqT_-e-xeWnUVnC5m0oC6fHC_DJJOLCMW09qNwBkq/s1600/IMG_6012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDR9c8N38QeZnHVIpNy0Z11cpTkKnhkRwQ475sI3lF4_omCIgIePB-iKWWwCk8BgA0groO_cCnywHRypHaqpzPRv7oOzmH45e8wjrqT_-e-xeWnUVnC5m0oC6fHC_DJJOLCMW09qNwBkq/s200/IMG_6012.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: New Orleans Trip (Beignets,<br />Gumbo, Snow Ball, Praline Bacon)</i></b></td></tr>
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Soon, I will have some updated posts for you regarding the house. We haven't completed a ton of projects (or even started most), but I can show you the nursery updates, which was our last empty room to decorate. Until now, it was used to store all my purchases from Target, West Elm, Amazon, etc. until I figured out exactly what I wanted to do with them. No more storage room for me and I officially told my hunny we should have built a home with four bedrooms...the nerve of me huh? </div>
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So that is my update...how the heck are all of YOU? I have been checking for updates and glad to see some of you are still around...but we are missing a few! I hope you all can share some updates soon. With the weather (hopefully) turning into more permanent Spring-like temps, I am sure more posts will be popping up soon. </div>
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Until next time, take care!!</div>
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xoxo </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-34992758222909269042016-01-15T12:58:00.000-08:002016-01-15T13:03:37.714-08:00Savant Lighting + Pictures<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Friday! </div>
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From my <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/12/overdue-update-with-pictures-backsplash.html">last post</a>, I received a few questions about the stairwell lighting and its control functionality. Originally, I was going to just add a few pictures to the previous post, but it can be hard to explain with just pictures. Here is brief overview of our Savant lighting and its control function. I hope this will help answer your questions...but if not...as always reach out to me and I go into greater detail. </div>
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The lights we control via Savant are:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">All Outside Lights</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Living Room</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Dining Room</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Man Cave</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Stairwell</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Kitchen (all)</li>
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Savant can be customized to control how little or how many lights your heart desire. As mentioned in <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/06/lighting-update-savant-system-pics.html">this post</a>, Savant is one of many home automation systems on the market to fully control your home (security, lights, music, television, window shades, etc.). Check out their <a href="https://www.savant.com/what-is-savant">site</a> to learn more about the features. Savant requires an authorized Savant Integrator to get things started for you. There may also be components that you need to purchase, but again, everything depends on how much you want your Savant system to control. For example, we thought it would be best to not include rooms like the pantry for lighting automation. As we enter the pantry, we flip the switch. Saying that, we do know people who literally do not touch one light switch in their entire home! So again, as little or as much as you want!!! </div>
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<b><u>Savant System</u></b></div>
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The system is controlled via the app on our iPad, cells, and computers. We decided to use iPads as remotes so there is one in every room with a television. Using a <a href="http://www.iportproducts.com/launchport/#launchport-intro">LaunchPort</a> allows us to have a 'home' for each iPad while charging it as well. Works great! There is no need to find a plug to charge your iPad, and because they are logistically located, it makes it easy to grab the 'remote' off the wall and go. Your iPad will sit inside the LaunchPort sleeve and magnetically attache to the wall holder/charger. </div>
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As I mentioned, the system can control as much as you want! Savant controls our television and media options as well. Through the app, you can customize the view with actual pictures of your rooms and create "scenes" for your home. This is totally up to you and is not needed to work properly. It just gives an added touch of customization. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgHqOHcWuq4sBsNmmANIlstHaSROPeqmQJKBPvsPJgJF7gHIEQ6G5sLAidmYhk_Mp5uXiEAcvV0H2aw6qF_Y1Jl1ODhyphenhyphenbctBTn4pUZqL2XtNXKxTYNpNOkgsONAF0LlK2x-uw0axWRwRmd/s1600/IMG_5050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgHqOHcWuq4sBsNmmANIlstHaSROPeqmQJKBPvsPJgJF7gHIEQ6G5sLAidmYhk_Mp5uXiEAcvV0H2aw6qF_Y1Jl1ODhyphenhyphenbctBTn4pUZqL2XtNXKxTYNpNOkgsONAF0LlK2x-uw0axWRwRmd/s400/IMG_5050.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Savant Pro App</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbDKA2cMQXIbpHiQGMzsmM-orj2D5KpxrHU1MZQ7ZqlaaOHKrOU9-t4Xhjv8kJgBJlBTf-kTbf7XajBIoKf2k4sNWUBoc-eq-dGcYUFac52ITjCsrnJYDwKs3WWDkiZbhptXRSR2XkgVA/s1600/IMG_5054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbDKA2cMQXIbpHiQGMzsmM-orj2D5KpxrHU1MZQ7ZqlaaOHKrOU9-t4Xhjv8kJgBJlBTf-kTbf7XajBIoKf2k4sNWUBoc-eq-dGcYUFac52ITjCsrnJYDwKs3WWDkiZbhptXRSR2XkgVA/s400/IMG_5054.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>iPad charging on wall</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvfEdZ0TW2zAvZ1gPJ8BM5i5DX7P9vPIwkvb6qIupN0SCv7VoDo2a1hyzyCNXkUaSReo1Uz0aLxJ8RKjjiYJPLApd-2F_cgk53vST2xetrZeLH2CEuhCGEofTkajMVYlAJiyV6bDgChSUF/s1600/IMG_5055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvfEdZ0TW2zAvZ1gPJ8BM5i5DX7P9vPIwkvb6qIupN0SCv7VoDo2a1hyzyCNXkUaSReo1Uz0aLxJ8RKjjiYJPLApd-2F_cgk53vST2xetrZeLH2CEuhCGEofTkajMVYlAJiyV6bDgChSUF/s400/IMG_5055.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>LaunchPort magnetic holder/charger</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQCKc6jD50fQ6HtJ18w1xY8ixWgsCvuPAWyjoPiNT48cO5u8ZBQ-2L6jqRgJZ762islN-6EJaODolDBv821bj9DVY0Zx3AEsfO46jn5_K2V2XyVXzlQGBgEsLf8_d4ehH33r__G1Oc2g9/s1600/IMG_5044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQCKc6jD50fQ6HtJ18w1xY8ixWgsCvuPAWyjoPiNT48cO5u8ZBQ-2L6jqRgJZ762islN-6EJaODolDBv821bj9DVY0Zx3AEsfO46jn5_K2V2XyVXzlQGBgEsLf8_d4ehH33r__G1Oc2g9/s400/IMG_5044.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our Savant rooms in app (pictures taken a while ago, so not the most recent view)</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinCg8gm1Xvjg1UxN_TQmspgyWQxEZDMo_6V68qnOlQaqYprR5qgss_IQi-1MekdEG54l0EuZqGfpcKF1QZYsFvfVxuIrisxMBQ1htONSDRf6p9mgYoS5pIpt-B9-rXBAsA9vCryJvvj_4b/s1600/IMG_5043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinCg8gm1Xvjg1UxN_TQmspgyWQxEZDMo_6V68qnOlQaqYprR5qgss_IQi-1MekdEG54l0EuZqGfpcKF1QZYsFvfVxuIrisxMBQ1htONSDRf6p9mgYoS5pIpt-B9-rXBAsA9vCryJvvj_4b/s320/IMG_5043.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Some of our Savant services</i></b></td></tr>
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<b><u>Lighting</u></b></div>
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For the lighting, specifically the stairwell lighting, we did not add any additional lights to this area. What we wanted to do (before guests came for the Thanksgiving holiday) is add some path lighting to prevent the possibility of someone falling up or down the stairs. Now since I am very honest...I have fell both up and down our stairs...a number of times! LOL It was funny, but not so funny if your mom or grandmother was to fall. To help us, we simply added <a href="http://www.lutron.com/en-US/products/Pages/sensors/occupancy-vacancy/wirelessradiopowrsavr/overview.aspx">Lutron Occupancy Sensors</a> to both stairwells that would detect motion and turn on the lights to our settings. With these sensors, you can customize how long you want the light to illuminate and to what brightness percentage. They also work well with Savant! I can't remember what percentage we have the lights set now, but originally it was too high. As soon as we walked near the stairwell from waking, those bright lights would blind us. A quick adjustment, and we were good to go. It's also important that while some adjustments can be made by you, others will require the Savant Integrator. So keep that in mind as you plan your automation.</div>
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<b>There could be a service charge if you need the Savant Integrator to visit multiple times.</b> </div>
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As mentioned in <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/07/finishing-our-garage-episode-3-door.html">this post</a>, we have <a href="http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Pages/default.aspx">Lutron</a> switches inside the home for most switches, including the some not on any type of automation schedule. <a href="http://www.legrand.us/dimmers-switches/light-switches.aspx#.VplORvmANBc">Legrand</a> is the other brand we've used in the garage, bedrooms, and soon the bathrooms. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-OHpz3pA3E6Do9M0aYITJWZAqi4tKukhiWclTJnoj-Ya_9NyHwWVET73-GKlefIC6LYsL_CwHGdnzegrs0LV4Z2jqAEdtlkTc7K9QNFsSMKKZueQYs1jDRgAS9FG5TiE4FiCF2gHQRBV/s1600/IMG_5038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-OHpz3pA3E6Do9M0aYITJWZAqi4tKukhiWclTJnoj-Ya_9NyHwWVET73-GKlefIC6LYsL_CwHGdnzegrs0LV4Z2jqAEdtlkTc7K9QNFsSMKKZueQYs1jDRgAS9FG5TiE4FiCF2gHQRBV/s400/IMG_5038.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Savant Occupancy Sensor</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimNeAD1xGThwF_StMB6Be7I0uATug2NjxNB3lxo1o5HzDeV2FxQhhMobOcHzNMWuhTV13TtByP43BfYqaZODUkVI-KHSX_ubLum0zS3e33C5ggcPaJMxcF7nOlAkQ3TDc205a_eAG2nCsj/s1600/IMG_5039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimNeAD1xGThwF_StMB6Be7I0uATug2NjxNB3lxo1o5HzDeV2FxQhhMobOcHzNMWuhTV13TtByP43BfYqaZODUkVI-KHSX_ubLum0zS3e33C5ggcPaJMxcF7nOlAkQ3TDc205a_eAG2nCsj/s400/IMG_5039.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Standard lighting in stairwell</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wm9I9f4XG0L8L9tNJYU99qCvDlfZLHLyoUUfXRGYGdfvwN33qRP92z4VT7pZOY3IszWLVipbKUAcQ52h0r5uTLHnQ3WFjA-RzlEQEhyphenhyphenwrLZzpkL-Ybwu5uHZ66SbPRB7NhvlOQPBKdpj/s1600/IMG_5041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wm9I9f4XG0L8L9tNJYU99qCvDlfZLHLyoUUfXRGYGdfvwN33qRP92z4VT7pZOY3IszWLVipbKUAcQ52h0r5uTLHnQ3WFjA-RzlEQEhyphenhyphenwrLZzpkL-Ybwu5uHZ66SbPRB7NhvlOQPBKdpj/s400/IMG_5041.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Lutron switch</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNoy4C4k1gj74mJUGMdOVHJAwe2VUrNJZ9_msDBeA6pbklmCgcl4a204B0U_ZZ5mZz25JGhhvemr3yiU7HKGd33nS7_KJfhhxVvfnfblPdlHNBtQtUNpE0fn3GySB8MbjrIyHny-5asNZg/s1600/IMG_5051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNoy4C4k1gj74mJUGMdOVHJAwe2VUrNJZ9_msDBeA6pbklmCgcl4a204B0U_ZZ5mZz25JGhhvemr3yiU7HKGd33nS7_KJfhhxVvfnfblPdlHNBtQtUNpE0fn3GySB8MbjrIyHny-5asNZg/s400/IMG_5051.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Lutron switch options</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpR4qWpXqnL85AoXcN_xKBvwKZRISNe3UEVShOo18HJlAXjh6tYAHv8fZYEQYThDFssSMHDW5FCu4_PEJ4d3PIVBKk1Zl3vhXkR6qrDAfxKZIwewLjTfkVFgXpvU_avew8cuNRd7jHc80/s1600/IMG_5053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpR4qWpXqnL85AoXcN_xKBvwKZRISNe3UEVShOo18HJlAXjh6tYAHv8fZYEQYThDFssSMHDW5FCu4_PEJ4d3PIVBKk1Zl3vhXkR6qrDAfxKZIwewLjTfkVFgXpvU_avew8cuNRd7jHc80/s400/IMG_5053.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Lutron switch options</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZhgvphRaXExkv-4TYQakuUjVuS5b-vmPzLGrMQWRTWINn4A2B4L9iJrUtH8SMi5P0VNYd6SfWZeOdWTHWpeZQCEmZ98TUpk8PES1FkDlXU_qtYXaRWw0Cvy7tUmuXf48ZoT_6wzAvRe3/s1600/IMG_5052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZhgvphRaXExkv-4TYQakuUjVuS5b-vmPzLGrMQWRTWINn4A2B4L9iJrUtH8SMi5P0VNYd6SfWZeOdWTHWpeZQCEmZ98TUpk8PES1FkDlXU_qtYXaRWw0Cvy7tUmuXf48ZoT_6wzAvRe3/s400/IMG_5052.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Lutron rocker (pantry)</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJCIJns_fKbgSRjCQPqvT5exeUpebgj2ICvXUNrdCMTBTztd8Ac1ys8z1b-qC0r11bQZ6yh0rGLu-7gxiuPLpAqTI5OBti7vJgJ4Kb3edInU-ePPFCptjjX5pcxl687N0VBnf1qhwGK5o2/s1600/IMG_5062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJCIJns_fKbgSRjCQPqvT5exeUpebgj2ICvXUNrdCMTBTztd8Ac1ys8z1b-qC0r11bQZ6yh0rGLu-7gxiuPLpAqTI5OBti7vJgJ4Kb3edInU-ePPFCptjjX5pcxl687N0VBnf1qhwGK5o2/s400/IMG_5062.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Lutron switch (lots of colors and textures to pick from)</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you are thinking about adding some automation to your home, my only advice would be to plan out what's important to your needs and build from there. You can always do things in a phased approach so you can see what works best for you. It also helps your pockets because as you know, these little projects can add up quickly! </div>
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<div>
Have a great weekend!</div>
<div>
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<div>
xoxo</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-4360964866097657542015-12-22T06:16:00.000-08:002015-12-29T06:39:11.628-08:00Overdue Update with Pictures: Backsplash + Outlets + Lighting - UPDATED<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am soooo behind on updating you all! How was your Thanksgiving holiday? I hope it was full of great memories with family and friends!!! We were super swamped with getting our home together for our first official hosting! There were so many items we had on our to-do list before guests arrived in town. With a lot of work, we were able to complete (almost) everything and our holiday feasting turned out absolutely amazing! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are the items we wanted to have done before the holiday:</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Replace builder pendants over kitchen island </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Replace builder chandelier in dining room</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Get house re-painted from our one-year drywall fixes</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Install the path lighting for stairwell (didn't want anyone to fall up or down the stairs at night)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Replace kitchen outlets and faces </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Install kitchen backsplash </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Extend our home automation lighting to outside</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Have fence installed</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Finish my DIY barista bar</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Everything was completed except the installation of the fence. There was an error with the manufacturer, and they were unable to order the fence materials in time. We now have the items ordered and the fence should be in very very soon!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the most part, the kitchen can finally be considered DONE! Counter decor could change with the seasons, events, etc., but here are a few pictures of the updates! I will do another post in the near future on the barista bar. Here are some recent pictures of the updates we completed right before the holiday!</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Outlets/Plates:</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Installed by my husband <strike>and I</strike>!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1UwN76AjSNRXBefsKW2xupiQX_eJqs-qc00Ru-bgoU5vT6EQqlUtG3fzh58yCATNca0zgWS5dTBzZHIX2WqjxK06tLwB9cI9WmAO3eIm89Xjti7VMBI6d9tHq7Q0Q9rKklgw1iCZa4Pis/s1600/IMG_4568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1UwN76AjSNRXBefsKW2xupiQX_eJqs-qc00Ru-bgoU5vT6EQqlUtG3fzh58yCATNca0zgWS5dTBzZHIX2WqjxK06tLwB9cI9WmAO3eIm89Xjti7VMBI6d9tHq7Q0Q9rKklgw1iCZa4Pis/s640/IMG_4568.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: kitchen wall outlet before</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF20uuAmJ2f32K0rjDMjtSwyMu1xAUKYZ70oVU2MZiYLl02wJ-JyhAc0ViWaCf8kFasYb3VHUfKSSvu9vYT_jfylDBln3DP3WqDGw0r6_mu8Pn0JtZEJhT3JPaJofUkriM1eWCQmtSojT8/s1600/IMG_4866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF20uuAmJ2f32K0rjDMjtSwyMu1xAUKYZ70oVU2MZiYLl02wJ-JyhAc0ViWaCf8kFasYb3VHUfKSSvu9vYT_jfylDBln3DP3WqDGw0r6_mu8Pn0JtZEJhT3JPaJofUkriM1eWCQmtSojT8/s400/IMG_4866.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: kitchen wall outlet and plate after</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQN2QIazGzQu3iqw7mTvCNjgtJ5OMwQbOvde5EwD7galAwBbAM0PbkQHS7ZS38lYGBYjALy_6P5aBlFyO8x2py7WwgGrYSbvWRW_rAAyukJuMiXUJxDJl6weeGDXDlnlu6Y7tw7d3OOPd/s1600/IMG_4865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQN2QIazGzQu3iqw7mTvCNjgtJ5OMwQbOvde5EwD7galAwBbAM0PbkQHS7ZS38lYGBYjALy_6P5aBlFyO8x2py7WwgGrYSbvWRW_rAAyukJuMiXUJxDJl6weeGDXDlnlu6Y7tw7d3OOPd/s400/IMG_4865.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: kitchen wall outlet and plate after</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCQTNKTIj8D32GufjEZ5_HmnOrf4QVqxklzjLjKAdhdygdqaSi9lfGmUvhYPMhzBWsMy1kNZB85jQv74T0K4995BzntLODT8CUnU0xlR0pY8ZoJ0TpVAOf74JA_VZtE2Q739tKVCdhsJx/s1600/IMG_4578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCQTNKTIj8D32GufjEZ5_HmnOrf4QVqxklzjLjKAdhdygdqaSi9lfGmUvhYPMhzBWsMy1kNZB85jQv74T0K4995BzntLODT8CUnU0xlR0pY8ZoJ0TpVAOf74JA_VZtE2Q739tKVCdhsJx/s640/IMG_4578.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: island outlets after (pop outs)</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3uDGqVdahO5U8U9NvE91XZCClZpimq9z9VgMPRGwkKc22d0J9vgus54B34PpdpPA9QkF74kiOmmP3pYrYxx0GVWtOhez1LEAJvC9vLfayefUGrEclBhxUgaEWj-T-gIRCWpelesVVfTh/s1600/IMG_4580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3uDGqVdahO5U8U9NvE91XZCClZpimq9z9VgMPRGwkKc22d0J9vgus54B34PpdpPA9QkF74kiOmmP3pYrYxx0GVWtOhez1LEAJvC9vLfayefUGrEclBhxUgaEWj-T-gIRCWpelesVVfTh/s640/IMG_4580.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: island outlets after (pop outs)</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Kitchen Island Pendants:</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I actually helped my husband install these! Very easy and we loved the mixing of the metals in the finished look!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OLbZpYIjDjVNp4g4hhL31Lt0oyKeYJVmuuU9-RAD7fxFjTFzfOmG2y21VprMxWeiu3tSpR_PnNePvPKgYnEiaYi5IGkNEObsp93m23zQhGQn_Sjb3BWW3FZhUg3c9NWErVuO4lSfVGNH/s1600/IMG_4593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OLbZpYIjDjVNp4g4hhL31Lt0oyKeYJVmuuU9-RAD7fxFjTFzfOmG2y21VprMxWeiu3tSpR_PnNePvPKgYnEiaYi5IGkNEObsp93m23zQhGQn_Sjb3BWW3FZhUg3c9NWErVuO4lSfVGNH/s640/IMG_4593.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: kitchen pendants before</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQfeinwSZ72xv0WDbozD912jiIdIndB3AQUhWjWZ35Zq5z8fm4askaLDiSZmxPJAn4rwUL2IL3fXzcZsVoTXQujetK4CvsQo_AZ247zNLGg7vAuGNPzijwhO41v6zo1KflNTZZ7l9_Bqmu/s1600/IMG_4868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQfeinwSZ72xv0WDbozD912jiIdIndB3AQUhWjWZ35Zq5z8fm4askaLDiSZmxPJAn4rwUL2IL3fXzcZsVoTXQujetK4CvsQo_AZ247zNLGg7vAuGNPzijwhO41v6zo1KflNTZZ7l9_Bqmu/s640/IMG_4868.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: kitchen pendants after</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Backsplash:</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My husband assisted one our buddies install the backsplash. Picking out the actual material took forever (we started looking in February), but we love our final selection!</div>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPw1ZdZjUT_-1FVlKQweHul1ZfuMcqQ6FzXpwJeAQbQHxJqa-E6vazGMhewJHRCaDTifLj7uF-Rsu2QG7gIcZ3s4MQj5tjb9okgCqHeJIhliDxghRWIiwLEdoy7UyNfetcTjPgO9lLdWu/s1600/IMG_4591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPw1ZdZjUT_-1FVlKQweHul1ZfuMcqQ6FzXpwJeAQbQHxJqa-E6vazGMhewJHRCaDTifLj7uF-Rsu2QG7gIcZ3s4MQj5tjb9okgCqHeJIhliDxghRWIiwLEdoy7UyNfetcTjPgO9lLdWu/s640/IMG_4591.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: backsplash and outlet/plates before</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhITz5jrqj2XtJC_7mWf30wraIU_wtlVfiqnPd_LByR0LXG8G717Yx77YV2he0Q6Lhrx2xHmHBMysrT2vnGQxge7HVqTzvudTslm9ELoCUSrjFPF7sSapSZdP99p2eWSsXlt5sovOOaGs3k/s1600/IMG_4867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhITz5jrqj2XtJC_7mWf30wraIU_wtlVfiqnPd_LByR0LXG8G717Yx77YV2he0Q6Lhrx2xHmHBMysrT2vnGQxge7HVqTzvudTslm9ELoCUSrjFPF7sSapSZdP99p2eWSsXlt5sovOOaGs3k/s640/IMG_4867.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: kitchen backsplash and outlet/plates after</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Dining Room Lighting</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We tag teamed this one ourselves. We finished just before our drywall certificate so we had the guys re-patch and paint the ceiling for us!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobFh_5bXhwWL7MGVdyzQ-_8xLD9-UHm-cavNAsvDiiZ8MO-2WTXS0KEwuS3vRwF5ERLclCjAr1TqbZnKu-gM5GYreRJlxrpChrLwMezmwln3FhYKW8rFk-wbk8eRbQLnDuUWQ7Cy9tbBa/s1600/IMG_4222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobFh_5bXhwWL7MGVdyzQ-_8xLD9-UHm-cavNAsvDiiZ8MO-2WTXS0KEwuS3vRwF5ERLclCjAr1TqbZnKu-gM5GYreRJlxrpChrLwMezmwln3FhYKW8rFk-wbk8eRbQLnDuUWQ7Cy9tbBa/s640/IMG_4222.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: dining room light before</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqm4n3RMe_BBmjhiOHGtxupV2OVLOLZ-DbYMDSEbAy3h2COZ-NwXSEsDu-C7hLKIH6xfHJ2T5TzNUqSlwAKKpePqoHSQkMJQtEV5d3n-jJ81E0_6dRv25JBvoXtn8vE1j1E0rXIRzpgoK_/s1600/IMG_4608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqm4n3RMe_BBmjhiOHGtxupV2OVLOLZ-DbYMDSEbAy3h2COZ-NwXSEsDu-C7hLKIH6xfHJ2T5TzNUqSlwAKKpePqoHSQkMJQtEV5d3n-jJ81E0_6dRv25JBvoXtn8vE1j1E0rXIRzpgoK_/s640/IMG_4608.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: removing the builder light</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDCCzRLH1V3ucrHb1qYa30R4DawkTgmEvSFo-Fpgh8TUb3UgwI2HYbmvswP3sxcuWZMvAWl2pfqM9nQ5cJoQZ6-ApDwKiilR9m45Bw8E6F0-Ci6yGj7rpuOF4qCgkGALrqCVxslTJpLxt/s1600/IMG_4610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDCCzRLH1V3ucrHb1qYa30R4DawkTgmEvSFo-Fpgh8TUb3UgwI2HYbmvswP3sxcuWZMvAWl2pfqM9nQ5cJoQZ6-ApDwKiilR9m45Bw8E6F0-Ci6yGj7rpuOF4qCgkGALrqCVxslTJpLxt/s640/IMG_4610.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: what our ceiling looked like after removal of builder light</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZpCC3XtAKOrf43PUsupO1L7QvVjcGJaM0Y3of8jpkMorQfd2WvBC6_WqaEORN7dr5xab4wITgjltt0l8L1Fzp72y9MM-8NfW2Q2sCYozwzuOeH5gTk2l7NKLFKPts0F5Zxz3wjF53dyV/s1600/IMG_4616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZpCC3XtAKOrf43PUsupO1L7QvVjcGJaM0Y3of8jpkMorQfd2WvBC6_WqaEORN7dr5xab4wITgjltt0l8L1Fzp72y9MM-8NfW2Q2sCYozwzuOeH5gTk2l7NKLFKPts0F5Zxz3wjF53dyV/s640/IMG_4616.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: after installing new light, this is what we were left with</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_WTfJcPwTwocxFJCSM81y-uv28LAvEVFclQGFTeVsaF4JMYx7VMygAN24dhah173EUGfwGcE85QPozUIM7eTAw7URqBtI-SADWfIsAYWp-0BN_dX1JdDdt0Z_YV3Tb_jOiWYe-5l5t07/s1600/IMG_4872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_WTfJcPwTwocxFJCSM81y-uv28LAvEVFclQGFTeVsaF4JMYx7VMygAN24dhah173EUGfwGcE85QPozUIM7eTAw7URqBtI-SADWfIsAYWp-0BN_dX1JdDdt0Z_YV3Tb_jOiWYe-5l5t07/s640/IMG_4872.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: new dining light after</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Updated 29Dec15</u></b></div>
I was asked about the kitchen backsplash specifics, so I wanted to share more details on those products. Let me know if you have any other questions!<br />
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<u>Backsplash</u><br />
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If possible, ask if you can borrow displays from your selected store. It really helps to bring home a sample to see how well it flows with your other kitchen details. Over time, we had roughly six (6) displays we 'played' with before deciding on the winner! For us, our counter tops are kind of busy so we did not want a backsplash that introduced too much flare. The options are endless, so have fun and don't feel rushed! If you are near a Mosaic Tile, they are really good about having samples on deck for you to take with you! </div>
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<ul>
<li>Tiles: 3x6 Brushed Copper Alloy Subway</li>
<li>Tiles:At the time of purchase, it was priced at $29.11/sq. ft.</li>
<li>Wall grout in color Earth</li>
<li>Non-sanded caulk in color Earth</li>
<li>All materials purchased at <a href="http://www.mosaictileco.com/">Mosaic Tile</a></li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiasmKcbAJM09aVTdJKiPDrp7XCSg0xgPOp4CTWghx3vvFB7ld0gmH7nXJPBHP4hj0YMYVzeCWmkz6mBFi4Nf2ZAFjW9kZ6mC-hleg780e1W0pyPI2O0LL8XlbO2SKWQcEbqnNA_2bPYE0D/s1600/IMG_4930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiasmKcbAJM09aVTdJKiPDrp7XCSg0xgPOp4CTWghx3vvFB7ld0gmH7nXJPBHP4hj0YMYVzeCWmkz6mBFi4Nf2ZAFjW9kZ6mC-hleg780e1W0pyPI2O0LL8XlbO2SKWQcEbqnNA_2bPYE0D/s400/IMG_4930.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Display of tile borrowed from <span id="goog_780861512"></span><span id="goog_780861513"></span><a href="http://www.mosaictileco.com/">Mosaic Tile</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbR3yGDvtglaU1jU-TcehdSCK1U3IwGcDBaUAN1DYmXdF5ifmbeYAc81VOIME4A9_LvAL4NLSGEg6wQy4jVA1PCk3Nl1rLJH5CsWkqBzO4krHvIrJSL03sRhlyL86xzEeRR9c9-n3FcdRl/s1600/IMG_4932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbR3yGDvtglaU1jU-TcehdSCK1U3IwGcDBaUAN1DYmXdF5ifmbeYAc81VOIME4A9_LvAL4NLSGEg6wQy4jVA1PCk3Nl1rLJH5CsWkqBzO4krHvIrJSL03sRhlyL86xzEeRR9c9-n3FcdRl/s400/IMG_4932.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Displays from <a href="http://www.mosaictileco.com/">Mosaic Tile</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-18135957109718202802015-11-12T06:33:00.000-08:002015-11-12T06:33:06.472-08:00Finishing Our Garage: Episode 6 (the floor)<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are BACK with a new and exciting update on the garage! It has been a little while since our last post because we spent a ton of time and energy researching the right product for us. We decided to go with Armorclad by <a href="https://armorpoxy.com/">Armorpoxy</a>, with the military top coat for our epoxy resin. </div>
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By now, you know that I can appreciate some great customer service right? Armorpoxy answered each and every call and email we sent their way. As first timers using an epoxy resin of any sort, we had tons of questions. We also visited garage forums to hear from people who actually finished their garage floors for additional tips and tricks. </div>
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The process started by constructing our kit which included most tools and all solutions needed for our application. We decided on using this two-step process which is more of a process than the options at Home Depot or Lowe's. If you Google, you can find many entries on the differences between the two, but we wanted to diminish the possibility of <a href="http://allgaragefloors.com/prevent-hot-tire-pickup/">hot tire pickup</a>, so we went with a two-step product. Armorpoxy also provides a ga-zillion different color choices if you decide to flake! </div>
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Here are the steps we took to achieve our finished garage flooring. We started on a Thursday evening and finished on a Sunday night:</div>
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<b><u>Step 1:</u></b></div>
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<ul>
<li>We cleared the garage of stored items and sweep <i>really really</i> well. </li>
</ul>
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<u><b>Step 2:</b></u></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJVSLKECZjw6eDZKWsaAXditAJh-Tbwmbc8JTUdPPVEOOWtoXeSwif_KQnDKcquSNrWdpJwoFks-fBU9iJNeeKmnIqLhvyvAJ8xxuQLWaHWbFxWvJuSGE44Sp9E9Gmb-qowdJ714s8Uun/s1600/IMG_4461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJVSLKECZjw6eDZKWsaAXditAJh-Tbwmbc8JTUdPPVEOOWtoXeSwif_KQnDKcquSNrWdpJwoFks-fBU9iJNeeKmnIqLhvyvAJ8xxuQLWaHWbFxWvJuSGE44Sp9E9Gmb-qowdJ714s8Uun/s200/IMG_4461.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Power Washer from Home Depot</b></i></td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>(Thursday) Roughed up the concrete by acid etching. Our kit came with the acid solution so there was no need to buy anything extra. Grinding is another great option that will really rough up your concrete. If you don't have a grinding machine, no worries because you can rent one from Home Depot! If you decide to use the acid technique, a <a href="https://instagram.com/p/9L9KM7nYYM/?taken-by=officialeboni">power washer</a> will be really helpful. We rented ours from Home Depot and allowed the garage to completely dry for 24 hours before moving on. </li>
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<b><u>Step 3:</u></b></div>
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<ul>
<li>(Friday) After the space was dry, we patched up some small holes and cracks in the garage. OK...well my husband patched holes and I went out on a Chipotle run! We added the crack repair to our kit since we knew we had holes and cracks to mend. Our neighbor let us borrow their dehumidifier to help with the drying process. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmxfIsmDET0knklEPO2ZGuU0aVFU4En_yJ856fFnxH9p6CkaTFvnF2nBugMHaUuhOLLMNd2LMspxYnGpCdvumX1eadVFfAbF4T3n71A-fdyMt4mneAhogFrSL_HCveEvoEA4pJlSaevEL/s1600/IMG_4482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmxfIsmDET0knklEPO2ZGuU0aVFU4En_yJ856fFnxH9p6CkaTFvnF2nBugMHaUuhOLLMNd2LMspxYnGpCdvumX1eadVFfAbF4T3n71A-fdyMt4mneAhogFrSL_HCveEvoEA4pJlSaevEL/s400/IMG_4482.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Patched holes</i></b></td></tr>
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</li>
</ul>
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<b><u>Step 4:</u></b> </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSapiy3skiRnworwmgg6rCee7FIc2RwjQEWCpdAH-TADDuON8V2jEqr6s9xOM-vcpks1afacUyYj3JwVOhN6sEJ-q1yr6WNzGSmUrHmP8tQEAtdPjIFJtwUyCF6T8iJNnksh4HvEvWPSjB/s1600/IMG_4485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSapiy3skiRnworwmgg6rCee7FIc2RwjQEWCpdAH-TADDuON8V2jEqr6s9xOM-vcpks1afacUyYj3JwVOhN6sEJ-q1yr6WNzGSmUrHmP8tQEAtdPjIFJtwUyCF6T8iJNnksh4HvEvWPSjB/s320/IMG_4485.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Applying floor primer</i></b></td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>(Saturday morning): We primed the floor (included in the kit) and allowed it to dry according to the directions. We started early enough in the day so (Saturday afternoon) we were able to apply the actual epoxy and flakes as well. There are some special spiked shoes that you can add to your kit to give you ability to walk on the epoxy. You WILL NOT be able to walk on the epoxy in regular shoes. This is where the team work comes in handy! We both cut in the corners of the garage since a roller brush will not get those spaces well. Think of it as painting a wall. Cut in first, then roll. While my husband rolled, I sprinkled the flakes. I must admit that I was super nervous about walking on the floor with spikes, but they are awesome and I would highly recommend. If my husband missed a spot while rolling, I was able to grab the roller and hit the spot in the spikes! </li>
<li>After the floor was rolled, it was a waiting game to allow the epoxy resin to dry. This was 24 hours for us.</li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeGzlzeqPtouPPSF0B_ho1-GJBi8g7qwggH1uaacsWffbf2RwwI1YmuYfahj61thN0QrXXsZSoZM7KreTRvG6lC8S3GSp9dKZlmKTL_LaYy5CxEjcE22q0o2nnrXiqoZoGBQsmEBGwtT9/s1600/IMG_4486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeGzlzeqPtouPPSF0B_ho1-GJBi8g7qwggH1uaacsWffbf2RwwI1YmuYfahj61thN0QrXXsZSoZM7KreTRvG6lC8S3GSp9dKZlmKTL_LaYy5CxEjcE22q0o2nnrXiqoZoGBQsmEBGwtT9/s400/IMG_4486.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Awesome spiked shoes</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJOAScrOX-JJc0sLlbQJa5a7am17vwQbjgs5utUAsCA46doQxtmNNUCRAW5GBgseOMMYl0O6dxPgOJg-rUV_Q7WnmlfFTFTrHFa-N9R6GUdyAqrl5T5kOeB4Zbm1f5TMf6lGkYFpwB1Qy/s1600/IMG_4605.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJOAScrOX-JJc0sLlbQJa5a7am17vwQbjgs5utUAsCA46doQxtmNNUCRAW5GBgseOMMYl0O6dxPgOJg-rUV_Q7WnmlfFTFTrHFa-N9R6GUdyAqrl5T5kOeB4Zbm1f5TMf6lGkYFpwB1Qy/s640/IMG_4605.PNG" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Mixing epoxy resin</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ii1cA6xXerDH7jRg1sm6XCj0UYWtkRt5MHUwmulLl_rexdVB1fRBNMNnU627GLC2kT4gLlQGfxBg_pWbHFQzkUxBy8fR7WJcHj95DTONqnpbscbIug5_9iUkwkzhcXlgBYChiBnNPx3N/s1600/IMG_4493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ii1cA6xXerDH7jRg1sm6XCj0UYWtkRt5MHUwmulLl_rexdVB1fRBNMNnU627GLC2kT4gLlQGfxBg_pWbHFQzkUxBy8fR7WJcHj95DTONqnpbscbIug5_9iUkwkzhcXlgBYChiBnNPx3N/s400/IMG_4493.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Custom flake mix</b></i></td></tr>
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<b><u>Step 5:</u></b></div>
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<ul>
<li>(Sunday): Now that everything was dry (and looking great), we had to apply the top coat. Again, we added the military grade top coat to get rid of the slip factor. As it stood before the top coat, it was a little slippery but not quit 'ice'. After we successfully applied the top coat, the floor was technically complete. We just had to wait another 24 hours for drying. </li>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoc8iXiYfvKY9LKFfc9_WEGS6WLJkcIXkCEUWiRzDa4yiFzHR-_aBqRgQiWx8gT3IjDeJu62vgbHFbjVaKXV0TXBQuGKhL9ynFZj6FQd8P2MXg3dbutxeXL6BQxr26VVhFgt0RfU0aMwN/s1600/IMG_4497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoc8iXiYfvKY9LKFfc9_WEGS6WLJkcIXkCEUWiRzDa4yiFzHR-_aBqRgQiWx8gT3IjDeJu62vgbHFbjVaKXV0TXBQuGKhL9ynFZj6FQd8P2MXg3dbutxeXL6BQxr26VVhFgt0RfU0aMwN/s640/IMG_4497.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Close-up floor (before topcoat)</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibVrny49PJ01sRhV60V_rwzBoSmFhiPqhrT9F2xaNQcR31oDmEzDL1oqK4wfx1r64VrHF2jxlNNDSyPCBvSxFd_eTihm6I-cU4Ed6BP7zAkCYmyVvPyBO4RGxiCv6VZ8Gk3Dj3uOO7lArn/s1600/IMG_4496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibVrny49PJ01sRhV60V_rwzBoSmFhiPqhrT9F2xaNQcR31oDmEzDL1oqK4wfx1r64VrHF2jxlNNDSyPCBvSxFd_eTihm6I-cU4Ed6BP7zAkCYmyVvPyBO4RGxiCv6VZ8Gk3Dj3uOO7lArn/s400/IMG_4496.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Finished floor - drying</i></b></td></tr>
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<b><u>Products/Equipment used:</u></b></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://store.armorpoxy.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Session_ID=a80911585dc4e269d2c6cef57ed18537&Screen=PROD&Store_Code=A&Product_Code=AC-KITTC&Category_Code=ACLAD">Armorclad Kit w/ Primer Option</a> </span></li>
<li><a href="https://store.armorpoxy.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Session_ID=a80911585dc4e269d2c6cef57ed18537&Screen=PROD&Store_Code=A&Product_Code=AI-CFP1&Category_Code=ACADDL">Concrete Floor Patch</a></li>
<li><span style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1HdSiFX">Scrub Brush</a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1HdSRzy">Putty Knife</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Drill (for mixing tool included with kit)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://store.armorpoxy.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Session_ID=a80911585dc4e269d2c6cef57ed18537&Screen=PROD&Store_Code=A&Product_Code=AI-SS1&Category_Code=ACADDL">Spiked Shoes</a> </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Timer (iPhone)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Power Washer (rented from Home Depot)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Dehumidifier (c/o neighbor) ---you could use a fan or keep the garage door open</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Faith (because you just never know) </li>
</ul>
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We <b><u>LOVE LOVE LOVE</u></b> the results we achieved! We had no idea what to expect, but decided to just do it and see what happens. It was a great project and much easier than it appeared originally. </div>
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Next on the finale of <i>'Finishing Our Garage'</i>, we will finish off the space by adding some type of base board to complete the look! </div>
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xoxo</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-81064074161976777952015-10-16T17:45:00.000-07:002015-10-16T17:45:01.245-07:00Getting Organized + Pictures<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Friday! I came straight home today super excited to get this closet organized and switched over to Fall/Winter attire. </div>
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Since I reached out for some organization help on my earlier <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/10/winterizing-my-closet-before-pictures.html">post</a>, first I should sort some things to see which solution would work best for me. </div>
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<u>Items that need a little more attention:</u></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Costume jewelry</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Hair products</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Receipts </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Small packages/gift boxes</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Gym bags</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Camera equipment </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Shoes that does not fit in the over-the-door shoe hanger (boots, etc.)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Various sample packets (you know the free stuff you get from retailers)</li>
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<u>Items that are actually in good standing:</u></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Nail polishes</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Fashion scarfs</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Winter scarfs</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Winter hats/gloves</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Hair equipment (flat irons, blow dryer, hot rollers, etc.)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Swim attire</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Clutch purses</li>
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I used bins from the Container Store that I found on clearance for everything except the nail polishes. Those are on the wall using an acrylic nail polish holder from <a href="http://amzn.to/1LpwsRJ">Amazon</a>. </div>
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I got some ideas from my lovely blogger friends for the items needing attention, and I really want to try some out. Question for you: <u style="font-weight: bold;">how long do you keep items that you have never worn?</u> I swear I tell myself "I will wear it next season" and that never happens. I think I may have a small issue with letting go of things. </div>
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This is what I am dealing with now. I hope to have things sorted with 90% done by morning, so I can run to Target or the Container Store in search for a better solution! Let the coffee making begin...something is telling me this is going to be a long night! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSdGA0JxLqvdnkIEF6GmjreJTuGjfgqdGFrkHe_97Nmx9tXR94E89azE4SCd0YxrrmNQV1PeB2sMQ74no4hPMmcBtmwyPSlNID7uTzvv2UdMc-vMkOUe7bXbk89UWw9t3DPICQ7sKMQGP/s1600/IMG_4363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSdGA0JxLqvdnkIEF6GmjreJTuGjfgqdGFrkHe_97Nmx9tXR94E89azE4SCd0YxrrmNQV1PeB2sMQ74no4hPMmcBtmwyPSlNID7uTzvv2UdMc-vMkOUe7bXbk89UWw9t3DPICQ7sKMQGP/s400/IMG_4363.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: <a href="http://amzn.to/1GiuEgp">Ziploc Space Saver Bags</a></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhwKFSFH3gy4NFs710xV_hHE0kl0vpZ8SN4X7jGo5vPivc3vq0LLWtqwZnoKsyHcZdeFrWfTQn884qZINnu7x3FaGLJLQfEiZQrCYpxN0ZSeqDrDuRATiRi5kwVREuO_5ymKax8F39_Pdj/s1600/IMG_4364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhwKFSFH3gy4NFs710xV_hHE0kl0vpZ8SN4X7jGo5vPivc3vq0LLWtqwZnoKsyHcZdeFrWfTQn884qZINnu7x3FaGLJLQfEiZQrCYpxN0ZSeqDrDuRATiRi5kwVREuO_5ymKax8F39_Pdj/s400/IMG_4364.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Costume necklaces</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlx3d8gLUdpH_GpTONUxvKyOS6i81KLEuJO1BwHJr6206ohgstPCMm8XwnNDcpG2xi8m5wGDGeAplOkpyzZXR7Lv9UDI-y56edeD3tZ2zZGoFCTRMcIco9rc0bf8Tdl7WS3o_dPOGdVrkG/s1600/IMG_4368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlx3d8gLUdpH_GpTONUxvKyOS6i81KLEuJO1BwHJr6206ohgstPCMm8XwnNDcpG2xi8m5wGDGeAplOkpyzZXR7Lv9UDI-y56edeD3tZ2zZGoFCTRMcIco9rc0bf8Tdl7WS3o_dPOGdVrkG/s400/IMG_4368.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: <a href="http://amzn.to/1PnG6u8">Belts</a></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlA7O38aCdZ83PD6sl5NAoMfPIxGC7JMsJ1dgKBZ1AM5WRFtohfrW3f7mltdW_jXRffNE0IJllzUSEc78-xMG28RtcJ68QfdjHcFolKYzD_YbEvR55gc-3aXrfUUiJZSMKTh82G_Z2JwPX/s1600/IMG_4366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlA7O38aCdZ83PD6sl5NAoMfPIxGC7JMsJ1dgKBZ1AM5WRFtohfrW3f7mltdW_jXRffNE0IJllzUSEc78-xMG28RtcJ68QfdjHcFolKYzD_YbEvR55gc-3aXrfUUiJZSMKTh82G_Z2JwPX/s400/IMG_4366.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Bangles/bracelets</i></b> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshAFL5AgjIGlhAuJSSzsHMot5_j40F8q8ypSJmHoAUCXlcG_eVToINdCDXL-MaY8oet95e7YPh7oAX5mW6eBfW_fSRjxqp7FGmVUI_1BdwDdIeU7UlAD_eU9r3wJySqeLHvS3d1qnyFdC/s1600/IMG_4367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshAFL5AgjIGlhAuJSSzsHMot5_j40F8q8ypSJmHoAUCXlcG_eVToINdCDXL-MaY8oet95e7YPh7oAX5mW6eBfW_fSRjxqp7FGmVUI_1BdwDdIeU7UlAD_eU9r3wJySqeLHvS3d1qnyFdC/s400/IMG_4367.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Samples from retailers</i></b> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhptcQWnZHnuWkmU0SX-KXEIaRW1rMW33o4JS_ey2H4Rg09R6Z-H1pSgzwxQph_8Wew84OOvSHq6Ugm-piG4S5KzADHjyCMtM6H7kLpEILNtUiOiEoUcNhcaBjIIGtA4SuVwt4kQ2RUBscr/s1600/IMG_4371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhptcQWnZHnuWkmU0SX-KXEIaRW1rMW33o4JS_ey2H4Rg09R6Z-H1pSgzwxQph_8Wew84OOvSHq6Ugm-piG4S5KzADHjyCMtM6H7kLpEILNtUiOiEoUcNhcaBjIIGtA4SuVwt4kQ2RUBscr/s400/IMG_4371.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Sunglass holder</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-QAYhsbXzxdpWux1cR5IIeL8REDWcUG82lHncjJ4ZaG2LYygNsgSvw7r_NZ8HLixHg1gqqX28wAMdb5OTo5Qkkp0Yqehul1oei8eQ2WxyWGa5FDCMRVOfo7R-MV-hm8eKOm1opuPicibe/s1600/IMG_4365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-QAYhsbXzxdpWux1cR5IIeL8REDWcUG82lHncjJ4ZaG2LYygNsgSvw7r_NZ8HLixHg1gqqX28wAMdb5OTo5Qkkp0Yqehul1oei8eQ2WxyWGa5FDCMRVOfo7R-MV-hm8eKOm1opuPicibe/s400/IMG_4365.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: <a href="http://amzn.to/1LpwsRJ">One of the few items with a home!</a></i></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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I will post the final closet once I have sorted through everything and found a home for the lost items! </div>
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xoxo</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-86204109949449011542015-10-16T07:01:00.000-07:002015-10-16T08:54:52.479-07:00Winterizing My Closet (before) + Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Finally, my favorite season is upon us! Fall is everything to me: scarfs, boots, cute hats and my favorite drinks at Starbucks! #PSL</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPh5k7z_RkQi7OLh8UtEkguuZgpxS3dm4Pgdz7zM6Dke0F2QwGI3sUVE2VQ25mSKHM3ySYa2GcNFDJxhiQdLNyuohjYfTzDFd9yzK1-nk2G0_i8MVuncgrGF2kxrOkS23vEx-2-okdvNZS/s1600/IMG_4350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPh5k7z_RkQi7OLh8UtEkguuZgpxS3dm4Pgdz7zM6Dke0F2QwGI3sUVE2VQ25mSKHM3ySYa2GcNFDJxhiQdLNyuohjYfTzDFd9yzK1-nk2G0_i8MVuncgrGF2kxrOkS23vEx-2-okdvNZS/s200/IMG_4350.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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As you know, my closet is the Elfa System from the Container Store. You can see my initial closet setup <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/02/in-progress-update-pics.html">here</a>. Maybe it's just me, but I still feel I could use more space! For as long as I can remember, I have been switching out my Spring/Summer attire to Fall/Winter twice a year. I store my out of season fashions in <a href="http://amzn.to/1Lwa50h">Ziploc Space Saver Bags</a>, because they actually do save a great deal of space and they are a super easy and affordable solution. </div>
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Since I was making the switch, I wanted to show you all my closet...the good, the bad and the ugly! Most of the time, this space is kept pretty neat because I like to just grab-and-go! When I am trying to find something for date night, or for an event, <i>that</i> is where you will meet the monster side of the closet. I fail to hang things in the correct location, or hang things back up at all! The good thing is I have a door, so it should not cause a problem for the day or so I leave it a mess. HAHAHA</div>
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I love my closet, but for the life of me, I still do not have a place for most of my costume jewelry. Originally, I purchased a cart with a jewelry hook and since then, the cart is in another closet (empty) and the jewelry hook is on the floor the spare bedroom. Ladies, where do you store your cute necklaces/jewelry? I am open to any and all help!!!</div>
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Here are some pics of my closet as I move in my clothes for the cooler months. There are some other items that I need to figure out because they are also a hot mess. For example, I keep my receipts for almost everything I purchase. If it's a bigger item, I keep for...forever. For other items like clothing, I keep until the return policy expire, just in case I need to return them. This bag of paper is going to drive me crazy, so I have to think of a creative way for this madness. To keep this post from going any longer, I will do the 'after' post separately. </div>
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<i><b>*Warning: the following contains messy (but truthful) pictures*</b></i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgC-pZy-qb95luFhzMeNn8AEETJAo-tMMh7EM9gKVE8Uu2JS11MC3dSrO-ej7jXkQL7PgSRYGLKHK0okwek5tqXuVyvnincSY7vONZxpH-x1o4auVIW1ArgVBWHK3ZCEWwzbFL64BL9B5/s1600/IMG_4289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgC-pZy-qb95luFhzMeNn8AEETJAo-tMMh7EM9gKVE8Uu2JS11MC3dSrO-ej7jXkQL7PgSRYGLKHK0okwek5tqXuVyvnincSY7vONZxpH-x1o4auVIW1ArgVBWHK3ZCEWwzbFL64BL9B5/s640/IMG_4289.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Above: Saying good-bye to my maxi dresses and other spring/summer items...</b></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuhZmesU0nvWP2flLcSEzjZuxpnAedcXUzwBp5MHf3L9W0jByMZFSHDg06KY31HouSeyua1PgiiPbZqIaY8XqNvxMJ-nWAfoNJQnxnWO7pTBJ4d-Ri8NZuA3WGG_BBsreHjZjZk-9T2Vo/s1600/IMG_4291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuhZmesU0nvWP2flLcSEzjZuxpnAedcXUzwBp5MHf3L9W0jByMZFSHDg06KY31HouSeyua1PgiiPbZqIaY8XqNvxMJ-nWAfoNJQnxnWO7pTBJ4d-Ri8NZuA3WGG_BBsreHjZjZk-9T2Vo/s640/IMG_4291.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Above: ...which left me with a mess...</b></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAalrkmYLV0WQ95gzs7ZOXA3j7mwzVKqxVL3QoXKZZvrRpqalNwi1I0NlqzeG-rT9-LefCK1F6b60cZOYsTiwmPI6cZyfUglRWHe0c3tvKMk5AFLWfWEiFApL-eDiI2_PyxDmpy5RepgmB/s1600/IMG_4290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAalrkmYLV0WQ95gzs7ZOXA3j7mwzVKqxVL3QoXKZZvrRpqalNwi1I0NlqzeG-rT9-LefCK1F6b60cZOYsTiwmPI6cZyfUglRWHe0c3tvKMk5AFLWfWEiFApL-eDiI2_PyxDmpy5RepgmB/s640/IMG_4290.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: ...or two! Never mind my Epsom salt and lavender from the tub area...trying to multitask!!</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLAwaoea64YgHQw6gSpRMnBh8L-wgsWV0fOeDiRUvS84Ak6IYq_BEpZ5U71r_w_gX525eyqygiBrrVPyZw7aaZyUaYaKpu12dmG1KWTs8EXUbYq24ab8S3b_amP1lEXdbLM4JqV6ZjNpZ/s1600/IMG_4297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLAwaoea64YgHQw6gSpRMnBh8L-wgsWV0fOeDiRUvS84Ak6IYq_BEpZ5U71r_w_gX525eyqygiBrrVPyZw7aaZyUaYaKpu12dmG1KWTs8EXUbYq24ab8S3b_amP1lEXdbLM4JqV6ZjNpZ/s640/IMG_4297.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Going through dresses...</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWaA9g581OHWPRD7pw8Y_VDuuMqU-xCRLHZODlr_grRjXsXpt10oX9PfeF7r0pXRMIHkGrPvBu_miVqaDHk3SjC2H2YjAWNJff134JFPKvE7qv62_asDk7wPMFcIjiMu-Vf27iirbjZUx/s1600/IMG_4298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWaA9g581OHWPRD7pw8Y_VDuuMqU-xCRLHZODlr_grRjXsXpt10oX9PfeF7r0pXRMIHkGrPvBu_miVqaDHk3SjC2H2YjAWNJff134JFPKvE7qv62_asDk7wPMFcIjiMu-Vf27iirbjZUx/s640/IMG_4298.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Above: ...and skirts!</b></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN9f3dZTDB0LpBUwRH0D4m-GSxAtPIlhKxEF-dN8p9Fx58iqfIfaD_BStVWju0JriJor1VXI3IQ8R04kt0dKR1dgNDXJOrOeLhZI0Oy-tq-2auKjSbZ_EHwamAm7iVp1k87tgqBg8o3ZTA/s1600/IMG_4296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN9f3dZTDB0LpBUwRH0D4m-GSxAtPIlhKxEF-dN8p9Fx58iqfIfaD_BStVWju0JriJor1VXI3IQ8R04kt0dKR1dgNDXJOrOeLhZI0Oy-tq-2auKjSbZ_EHwamAm7iVp1k87tgqBg8o3ZTA/s640/IMG_4296.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Jeans and sweaters stay around all year...</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLPKldQVCIvVn34VdrCQnKJXsp3oVsxRTIESg_bQTN_qGTWiQMJqjEXAiJIGC3TZqGDldJwlSP9VNK0jzBsmSgxc_S0G2_BY16aMrbuc_pH_UR9fko-inoRtxFGPAY_Afo8Krhstsu8mt/s1600/IMG_4300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLPKldQVCIvVn34VdrCQnKJXsp3oVsxRTIESg_bQTN_qGTWiQMJqjEXAiJIGC3TZqGDldJwlSP9VNK0jzBsmSgxc_S0G2_BY16aMrbuc_pH_UR9fko-inoRtxFGPAY_Afo8Krhstsu8mt/s640/IMG_4300.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: ...and so does most blazers!</i></b></td></tr>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">But then the real problem is revealed...bags of crap in need of a home!</u> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0aAETFn43p8USas7itVhZVM_K40_-nJm_RzOD8URWydPDDNh-vJlOEZitKT_IGVxAyewFZxStpL1pF9wwkFr8Km8wkl7nPjVnSVul2whgMlGVfPTbmMSJVBA4YDe4CHJRggYQP6dzK9V/s1600/IMG_4293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0aAETFn43p8USas7itVhZVM_K40_-nJm_RzOD8URWydPDDNh-vJlOEZitKT_IGVxAyewFZxStpL1pF9wwkFr8Km8wkl7nPjVnSVul2whgMlGVfPTbmMSJVBA4YDe4CHJRggYQP6dzK9V/s640/IMG_4293.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: My bag of receipts that I keep for return purposes. This creates a chore of me going through them monthly</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAowCtQSlGHMiBLz4bWpMjkX0-BdGAz7vljevrhiS5hIvIhEvIXa8ozeFGT0VeRwE5zpEjcYEOKQls0Ez2pcljGI4-xnvLZ7-_dC1XTHl2NdMbBxRaSVSUQ9y824zA59oAWXGU09-vs8W3/s1600/IMG_4295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAowCtQSlGHMiBLz4bWpMjkX0-BdGAz7vljevrhiS5hIvIhEvIXa8ozeFGT0VeRwE5zpEjcYEOKQls0Ez2pcljGI4-xnvLZ7-_dC1XTHl2NdMbBxRaSVSUQ9y824zA59oAWXGU09-vs8W3/s640/IMG_4295.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Another bag of crap! Boxes/containers from smaller gifts</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6q7CsJoYGdnK5zoRHeniXP3SryUpkWhiT3_evGosSMiFBP-vWmd8H1wIA1BZXtyoXYpS3_DY50ZHcR2uzW7lrWmp2um-In8exdfw1CgU7uxB5d6Fi-z4X2sRZJWe8-gUiGH1qxPYT2ocz/s1600/IMG_4301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6q7CsJoYGdnK5zoRHeniXP3SryUpkWhiT3_evGosSMiFBP-vWmd8H1wIA1BZXtyoXYpS3_DY50ZHcR2uzW7lrWmp2um-In8exdfw1CgU7uxB5d6Fi-z4X2sRZJWe8-gUiGH1qxPYT2ocz/s640/IMG_4301.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: AND another load of crap...hair products in containers that drive me up the wall and back!</i></b> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacrimEd_uWQaWTpf2zY6x_FVlwrxOs4FbhkmiaR2nohNcPhe5R9Aku2elTySq4nURxxA079Bp2usXDDH5eaBLTNsMwqfTNKTTyJmKydOWstb6AiMvDJHphA2OVy6XRUuxdG9aWUY4OeTi/s1600/b4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacrimEd_uWQaWTpf2zY6x_FVlwrxOs4FbhkmiaR2nohNcPhe5R9Aku2elTySq4nURxxA079Bp2usXDDH5eaBLTNsMwqfTNKTTyJmKydOWstb6AiMvDJHphA2OVy6XRUuxdG9aWUY4OeTi/s640/b4.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/02/in-progress-update-pics.html">Original setup</a> using the cart</i></b> </td></tr>
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I'm wondering if I should use the cart again? I just hate that it closes the closet off a little more. Currently, I like walking right in without much thought. LOL </div>
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Let me work on cleaning up this mess and I will post the final closet soon.</div>
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xoxo </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-20677363118806596162015-10-15T12:12:00.000-07:002015-10-15T12:12:06.562-07:00It's Almost Friday (again)!!!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Can you believe it's almost the weekend again? I absolutely adore my weekends as these are the only days 'The Shop' (official name of or our garage) is open for business. Most of my DIYs/projects are done in the garage...so the name thing just happened and stuck! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNa6gOzYC2yiGeexxBsLqnodTa1R84YEm7YtSLA0jsgfv4c7Cr8zHqaq31Rlf8ycs_20vGRBOTLhkBMx3qqDv90F2L__2chMmHJTBio2MA8un-PVOZnwXYX3VJC8LY-EPuG0JHHcpFFa_/s1600/IMG_4275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNa6gOzYC2yiGeexxBsLqnodTa1R84YEm7YtSLA0jsgfv4c7Cr8zHqaq31Rlf8ycs_20vGRBOTLhkBMx3qqDv90F2L__2chMmHJTBio2MA8un-PVOZnwXYX3VJC8LY-EPuG0JHHcpFFa_/s320/IMG_4275.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My recent <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/">IKEA</a> trip!</td></tr>
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Last weekend, I completed my monthly tour of IKEA. I seriously go there and walk around the whole store lookin' for items I <strike>don't need</strike> have never seen before! My husband hates IKEA and has only graced me with his company about 3 times. He says you have to put everything together and the directions are horrible. I have to agree sometimes, but the price and cuteness of the items out-weigh the headaches of putting things together right? If any of you want to head to IKEA with me, let me know. I have fun alone but can have even more fun with a little company. This time I actually went to return a nesting table I purchased as the plan was to hack it, but unfortunately, it did not work for the space. It was a little too small, so the hunt is on for a better fit. Instead of just returning the table and leaving, I went in and left 2 hours later. #yikes </div>
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As far as our home, we submitted our first two applications for exterior changes! One application is for a fence in the backyard, and the other is for grass in the front. Our community of townhomes were delivered with mulch in the front (instead of the much preferred grass). Personally, I think this was just an easy and cost efficient option for the builder. When it rains, the mulch just runs down the street which sucks because who wants mulch everywhere? And who wants to keep replacing it??</div>
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It could take up to 45 days to get our applications approved, but I hope it comes quick because we are running out of time to seed or sod.</div>
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How are you all doing? Any updates or planned projects before the holiday season or winter weather hit us? I hope things are going well and I have some posts pending for you all. I am making a real stride to update more frequently and let you know how things are going over here! </div>
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I will be sure to post an update on the fence and grass situations. The "Finishing Our Garage' series is about to start again. After a lot of research and questions, we have our materials ordered and currently waiting on their arrival. We have installed sconces and extra recessed lighting in the master bedroom, received furniture and the area rug for the 'Woman Cave', had a storm door installed in the front, and currently building a barista bar for the dining room. </div>
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Until next time...</div>
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xoxo </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-52296567694562998342015-10-07T13:34:00.000-07:002015-10-07T13:34:41.521-07:0010 Month Inspection (Part II)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmejlHt7NMyn9d28ot3360jsLfIBKOTSYmuw_8i_V5VksT3vt-ybiUBA0XUFhspEgFGM6-u9uQ80v42A_2xjHnLpqW04YK0CV44pkJN7XxPvgUJyhTkIgATJjH8pkEBK7jJioiNo_Gdkj-/s1600/IMG_4200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmejlHt7NMyn9d28ot3360jsLfIBKOTSYmuw_8i_V5VksT3vt-ybiUBA0XUFhspEgFGM6-u9uQ80v42A_2xjHnLpqW04YK0CV44pkJN7XxPvgUJyhTkIgATJjH8pkEBK7jJioiNo_Gdkj-/s200/IMG_4200.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Painted the house in blue tape</b></i></td></tr>
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We had our inspection today, so I wanted to follow up on my <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/10/10-month-inspection-part-i.html">previous post</a> and show you some of the 21 items on our list! We painted the house in blue tape, most of which were nail pops. Our dry-wall service is scheduled for November, so we started early to make sure we get every single item! </div>
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In my opinion, most of the items on our list were great items to have addressed, and others...well...we had to ask ourselves "do we want to take the chance on messing things up more?" For example, you remember that leaky sink I spoke of <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/10/10-month-inspection-part-i.html">here</a>, well they fixed the leak but the few water buckles left underneath the cabinet...we still have those! In order for those to be fixed, they would have to basically rip the entire island out, including removing the granite. Sometimes, things are better left in their current condition. We felt like removing the entire island was a huge risk that could potentially cause more issues later. You know things never go wrong until <i><u>after</u></i> the warranty has expired right? LOL</div>
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Other than the sink, they addressed everything on our list and a few items require parts to be ordered so the crew will be returning soon to finish those. They started bright and early at 8 o'clock on the dot. The doorbell seemed constant with guys coming to fix different items. They were here for about 3 hours total and everyone was super nice and helpful! </div>
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I love pictures, so I figured it would be easier to touch on each case individually:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2foRc6PcQ26h-M-O3LD2L0v3cLFo48fjPzUpO29KW39BxCw8hZpH9mXRI6Y8RRpFhKeZhotbtx7zPPc2OiTC9aJF1PPurOFIcDhU6lvuTWPSWXZ5rJt0r3gCFsoxnck0A_-aU504OfPV/s1600/IMG_4208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2foRc6PcQ26h-M-O3LD2L0v3cLFo48fjPzUpO29KW39BxCw8hZpH9mXRI6Y8RRpFhKeZhotbtx7zPPc2OiTC9aJF1PPurOFIcDhU6lvuTWPSWXZ5rJt0r3gCFsoxnck0A_-aU504OfPV/s400/IMG_4208.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Kitchen sink filled to the no-leak-maximum<br />Now it's fixed and we can fill to the top!</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhquJk7EVASMQTqMqO-cX_xbybwQXo8rR9A1Svs4shH6DGCq9yqp6S2h3OFnPKMF1cTlvKlmjNePihOZHeqrrTiK__5SQJotFyTbkBp8objWNb3gy4f933U7xwP9TipVfD4tIkqDJLb1mov/s1600/IMG_4209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhquJk7EVASMQTqMqO-cX_xbybwQXo8rR9A1Svs4shH6DGCq9yqp6S2h3OFnPKMF1cTlvKlmjNePihOZHeqrrTiK__5SQJotFyTbkBp8objWNb3gy4f933U7xwP9TipVfD4tIkqDJLb1mov/s400/IMG_4209.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Two steps being fixed because they squeaked</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49S0hoTkTkneP3RG98cyLBDNZ6J5jjQ3vxdGNTocVeQ2DzYrHxmvthUFmYDi3ow0U257WSxmHyBhUPjs_IF8ieUtJAPHharCSqKJAGTeoJVMPuArW8DlNhy_moE0MoR_5UbAEuk4bc51A/s1600/IMG_4210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49S0hoTkTkneP3RG98cyLBDNZ6J5jjQ3vxdGNTocVeQ2DzYrHxmvthUFmYDi3ow0U257WSxmHyBhUPjs_IF8ieUtJAPHharCSqKJAGTeoJVMPuArW8DlNhy_moE0MoR_5UbAEuk4bc51A/s400/IMG_4210.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: In certain light, you could see the roller marks<br />The crew re-painted the ceiling to fix<br /><br /></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTv9jak78NvZpFRnHY_VWAkN2xmnYbm_SJ9KfXC2pEiyOBa3iG9KrEV6LHXA_CFYniWDTCs9vWTNws5xqvEAcaBS8l6lKVJG34kep0n1VHRoyPGPDuzsXbnlA7bpnDdLKcaD3VThhC3-i/s1600/IMG_4198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTv9jak78NvZpFRnHY_VWAkN2xmnYbm_SJ9KfXC2pEiyOBa3iG9KrEV6LHXA_CFYniWDTCs9vWTNws5xqvEAcaBS8l6lKVJG34kep0n1VHRoyPGPDuzsXbnlA7bpnDdLKcaD3VThhC3-i/s400/IMG_4198.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Outside paint missing because it was too cold when we moved in for painting. We decided to wait until now to have it fixed, because it was no big deal for us due to the location.</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhGrc6N14T50fz1EmtIprWxo6rMavITH7LneJcyAB0iR2TUYbZ8yqpnZQQv1Ux8LxVT0yzuSwh_gPQOPSrrEwCnDAc9bys2LZUCyoi4H3NBbVgHiPFJK3_gafF_hJ3vhneTNobYCPlBMP/s1600/IMG_4195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhGrc6N14T50fz1EmtIprWxo6rMavITH7LneJcyAB0iR2TUYbZ8yqpnZQQv1Ux8LxVT0yzuSwh_gPQOPSrrEwCnDAc9bys2LZUCyoi4H3NBbVgHiPFJK3_gafF_hJ3vhneTNobYCPlBMP/s400/IMG_4195.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Example of areas needing caulk</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04S-Uc6wpdU2co2a-9V2ArIbhWHZsX0CEHCdIYZGipUM7G_naBQuglCKV1o0r9lOvYHd4xb5iCEoDnVfDAIGVXtaieA976w_GNbA3-EbQlnIKBzcPHoKAMmLRBmu9GYSp6KJ3HT_Blwss/s1600/IMG_4197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04S-Uc6wpdU2co2a-9V2ArIbhWHZsX0CEHCdIYZGipUM7G_naBQuglCKV1o0r9lOvYHd4xb5iCEoDnVfDAIGVXtaieA976w_GNbA3-EbQlnIKBzcPHoKAMmLRBmu9GYSp6KJ3HT_Blwss/s400/IMG_4197.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Construction wrap not fully cut around window</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGzxMljkj4gw60DJDyghWIYG1956dKcZykIEF-oWsFRV1HdPAZQ_oFeqQ4uGiCV6aKJ7H-T7obRLVsjbCbTSmODH5he2Tww3Avr1IIKR5UefVBzEMvyjpPeZosQJ1EYW0SC8pDzpnmJzV/s1600/IMG_4191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGzxMljkj4gw60DJDyghWIYG1956dKcZykIEF-oWsFRV1HdPAZQ_oFeqQ4uGiCV6aKJ7H-T7obRLVsjbCbTSmODH5he2Tww3Avr1IIKR5UefVBzEMvyjpPeZosQJ1EYW0SC8pDzpnmJzV/s400/IMG_4191.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Wood in need of a new polyurethane coat</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsWCC-KHS2Jx7cMbfgMheR7CwRieicJqZKCHYONRAEqy97HqWgtnYpfAhOExGZMn1GJ5bFSEDRizySsVQHlDj4AjtsGnmMUUeLWJD2swZx3pEPhWVDAAlCTq7X-1aqZEd9dvavQ5pumUS7/s1600/IMG_4221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsWCC-KHS2Jx7cMbfgMheR7CwRieicJqZKCHYONRAEqy97HqWgtnYpfAhOExGZMn1GJ5bFSEDRizySsVQHlDj4AjtsGnmMUUeLWJD2swZx3pEPhWVDAAlCTq7X-1aqZEd9dvavQ5pumUS7/s400/IMG_4221.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Past home of a towel rack<br />It was broken and after a previous fix, it broke again. I had it removed today and I will replace with another solution. The cause of it being broken was it was installed too far apart. </i></b></td></tr>
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One item that I was not able to capture was a hole in the man cave, underneath the carpet. My husband informed the head guy about the item, and his response was "it's concrete underneath". When they pulled back the carpet, there was a hole in the floor. They filled it and replaced the carpet. This is why I suggest that you walk all floors and stairs. We also had 2 wood planks replaced in the kitchen that had a little squeak. </div>
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We have many nail pops, mostly in the ceiling, along with cracks and seams. We will continue to mark these with our handy blue tape and have them addressed in November. Some of the nail pops are on our custom colored walls so we will re-paint those few areas afterwards. </div>
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Note: I like to have things planned when possible, so looking ahead at the dry-wall schedule, I was informed they do not have any openings until late November. This was perfect for us, but I suggest that you schedule ahead if possible. Remember, the certificate is only good for one year so please take into account their schedule. </div>
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Overall, we are pleased with how things turned out and the responses we received about all the items. I asked very specific questions and received very straight answers. One can appreciate someone not dancing around the questions or trying to give you the most expensive solution all the time! For this, we thank you NVHomes! <br />
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xoxo</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-88068849189468574742015-10-06T06:09:00.002-07:002015-10-06T06:09:30.259-07:0010 Month Inspection (Part I)<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeTDmolXCY1x3ppQJDDuZ44iVj8DtWWQ2zs7Nj879rbk6nXT0b7EJ8mmYJe-w2pxlfY-dm_vAhaIzeFXRf6vz4nuGwzMYkWljoAq2WJLUiure0ngSnur_gXewUZloFRAgyB9WjX0hrZP2L/s1600/IMG_4109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeTDmolXCY1x3ppQJDDuZ44iVj8DtWWQ2zs7Nj879rbk6nXT0b7EJ8mmYJe-w2pxlfY-dm_vAhaIzeFXRf6vz4nuGwzMYkWljoAq2WJLUiure0ngSnur_gXewUZloFRAgyB9WjX0hrZP2L/s200/IMG_4109.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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WOW, it's hard to believe that it has been 10 months already! Overall, we LOVE our home, but for us the 10-month mark is another opportunity to get minor fixes addressed from the builder. Here is our chance to pull out the blue tape and paint the house with it! Ours is scheduled for tomorrow, which is great because it allows extra time for re-visits before the holiday season! </div>
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I have been holding back from posting some of these items before, because I knew I would have more pictures to share if I waited until we were nearing this inspection. </div>
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For homeowners who have yet to have their 10-month, here are some suggested checks (in addition to the 'regular' checks) based on our experience:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Walk all wood floors and check for squeaks and separations (don't forget your stairs if they are covered with carpet)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Check wood flooring to ensure they covered all the nail holes</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Walk carpeted floors to look for "lumps & bumps", and tacks </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Run all appliances at max/min levels to ensure they work properly (you will still have the manufacturing warranty where applicable)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Run all faucets, plumbing, showers and bath tubs to ensure they are working properly</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Ensure all outlets are working properly </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Fill kitchen sink to the max and check for leaks underneath (more on this below)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Make sure water pressure is at a desired state (this may be a simple fix such as cleaning the screens, but now is the time to address it)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Check the outside perimeter, including the roof, for any cracks, missing siding, separations, etc.</li>
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Basically <b>#CheckEverything</b></div>
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As I mentioned above, fill the kitchen sink to the max and check for any leaks. Why? Because a couple of weekends ago, I was so busy playing with Diesel that I let the sink overfill. The good thing is the granite lip on the island prevents the overflow from pouring all over your kitchen floor. So imagine the look I had when I stepped in a puddle of water! After my investigation, I determined we have an improper seal where the sink was installed. We have the standard two-sink shindig and because it happened on one side, we wanted to 'test' the other side. Turns out we have <b><u>TWO</u></b> sinks that are NOT properly sealed. One side is definitely worse than the other, but because we have never filled the sinks to the max before, we had no idea. When we went to clean up the water from underneath the sink (in the cabinets), we noticed a few brown spots and some buckling of the cabinet floor. This means that water had escaped before and now the builder will have a larger lift to address this issue. I am not sure what will be required to have this issue fix and returned to its 'new' state, but I will be sure to post an update afterwards. </div>
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I should also mention that anything pertaining to drywall will be fixed when you redeem your one-time use drywall certificate. This includes minor cracks, nail pops, and caulking. This is not something the builder will fix during the 10-month inspection. If you have painted your walls a custom color, they are only required to repaint repaired walls with the original builder paint color. The drywall certificate is good for one year. Since this is a 10-month, you may opt to use it now or you can wait roughly two months to use it, but it will have to be scheduled separately. We have decided to redeem ours as close as possible to our one year anniversary to get the full benefit. Remember, anything 'drywall' after the one year is your responsibility. #yikes</div>
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Using it at the one-year mark allows for your home to cycle through all four seasons. </div>
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You will still have about two months to give your builder a call if something should go wrong after the 10-month inspection, but try to address as much as possible during this time. NVHomes will send out the notice and you are responsible for listing your concerns (don't be shy...add additional sheets if needed). The notice will have a tentative date and time for your inspection, pending your return of the notice. They may have questions about your concerns so it is very important to return the notice within the given time-frame or you may risk your scheduled date and time not being available.</div>
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Here are a few items we will have addressed during the visit! I have also included one of the major nail pops we will address when we redeem the drywall certificate. As always, let me know if you have any questions! I will update on what things in particular we addressed and how they were handled. </div>
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Part II will cover all the issues we addressed and how they were handled during the inspection! My husband just told me we have 21 things on the list!!! LOL </div>
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Stay tuned...</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwvPyA9d5BWPxBeet4rpyeiDmGpxHkk_eJ6ZUq7MFkvBxPKBvrc6luR6MegNaiF-RpeAJ-OTQXlII31LoTDPBl6KDss3g7VZ4sXFqpc4vUcERsfO7_C-D6bcOGGkiyIxkooxfVML4StMj/s1600/IMG_4155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwvPyA9d5BWPxBeet4rpyeiDmGpxHkk_eJ6ZUq7MFkvBxPKBvrc6luR6MegNaiF-RpeAJ-OTQXlII31LoTDPBl6KDss3g7VZ4sXFqpc4vUcERsfO7_C-D6bcOGGkiyIxkooxfVML4StMj/s400/IMG_4155.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Separation crack in the molding</i></b> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZniNc5-Wjpf1vJs2W7sgZjkIGzcfdbPe1xEaUyKGdlIqZi_3ehdCTX_WeCL2MjLMZ5Uq-ZeH_5eZZqpn35ucSHCrzCd7WHT9Wz0Cyuj0EEdppJ90Emw6rBKyWWKRHpdUmZl3OYiPV92Fy/s1600/IMG_4177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZniNc5-Wjpf1vJs2W7sgZjkIGzcfdbPe1xEaUyKGdlIqZi_3ehdCTX_WeCL2MjLMZ5Uq-ZeH_5eZZqpn35ucSHCrzCd7WHT9Wz0Cyuj0EEdppJ90Emw6rBKyWWKRHpdUmZl3OYiPV92Fy/s400/IMG_4177.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: HUGE nail pop and crack. We have lots of nail pops (mainly in the ceilings) </i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8wT2P7-69whHO2yMvtpp4WNUIH6tVmVtWmqd3ld0G5Hle_NREnuUoIe6DQNeE1DvPpnCAwSXlOwllRPxK3DjA0GEbEkm4Eyfe8VXiA4cyun_OXMFSfG3vKnn_TXmNwLQetWt7s35txa2/s1600/IMG_4178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8wT2P7-69whHO2yMvtpp4WNUIH6tVmVtWmqd3ld0G5Hle_NREnuUoIe6DQNeE1DvPpnCAwSXlOwllRPxK3DjA0GEbEkm4Eyfe8VXiA4cyun_OXMFSfG3vKnn_TXmNwLQetWt7s35txa2/s400/IMG_4178.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Separation near vanity area in guest bathroom</i></b></td></tr>
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xoxo</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-12281375241860023062015-10-01T07:06:00.000-07:002015-10-01T07:08:34.872-07:00Giveaway Winner Announced<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfHxWF7c4oFrNEo9cz9pXVrMeoPhhDeaLYg2BzePerYA-nwcsdnpjclraehd3uLzxbLWXuhY85upN52xoy8xpGzPFmCBiIa602qPRIyJ-OimsrxW6Pe03bao8eOqFcRjkywIJ3f5_47GW/s1600/CAROUSEL-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfHxWF7c4oFrNEo9cz9pXVrMeoPhhDeaLYg2BzePerYA-nwcsdnpjclraehd3uLzxbLWXuhY85upN52xoy8xpGzPFmCBiIa602qPRIyJ-OimsrxW6Pe03bao8eOqFcRjkywIJ3f5_47GW/s400/CAROUSEL-1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></b></b></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: blue;">Congratulations to <a href="http://dwtimes2.blogspot.com/">dwtimes2</a>!!!</span> </b></b></span></div>
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Enjoy your gift card and tune in for more giveaways soon!!!</div>
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I want to thank everyone for taking the time to enter. You all shared some really valuable tips that's sure to hel<span style="font-family: inherit;">p new and fu</span>ture homeowners! </div>
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<i>This giveaway was not sponsored or affiliated with The Home Depot stores.</i> <br />
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xoxo Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-18030694474498667042015-09-27T18:21:00.002-07:002015-09-28T07:06:31.421-07:00Guest Post: Spice Up Your Kitchen Organization<!--[if !mso]>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
It thrills me to bring you this guest post by <b>Ty Schmidt </b>with <b><a href="http://modernize.com/">Modernize.com</a>,</b> to offer some fabulous and cost-effective ways to organize your kitchen space! I love to use space wisely, making sure to keep it functional but not too crowded. Check out these great options to keep your space functional and organized at the same time! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Everyone has their own reasons for not wanting to cook.
Maybe it was a long day at work and you just don’t feel like it. Or you think
there’s nothing to make (in spite of the fully stocked fridge and pantry). Or,
maybe you just spent $200 at the grocery store and you would rather grab take
out than put any more effort into food-related things that day. Regardless of
the reasons, there is one thing that can help: an organized kitchen can help
make the task of tackling that recipe a little less challenging.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are a few tips to organize your kitchen in creative yet
practical ways:<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Recycle.</span></b> There are ways to
reuse what some may think of as garbage that can make your kitchen feel much
less cluttered. Save storage space in cabinets, a pantry or a Lazy Susan by
turning a used cardboard soda container into a storage vessel for soup cans. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjlEPx3W9lmxY6C-UrnO3URcPTjRB02I9hA1cxNgIPTExCDW6BmM0p_lVnw5V9M_KqpUrKxgprqt-jioixQeIprtZAr3aSDgps1mP8WDAeB06rKKLrGbnFXpXhZ_StHVkzngbHi8paMiO/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjlEPx3W9lmxY6C-UrnO3URcPTjRB02I9hA1cxNgIPTExCDW6BmM0p_lVnw5V9M_KqpUrKxgprqt-jioixQeIprtZAr3aSDgps1mP8WDAeB06rKKLrGbnFXpXhZ_StHVkzngbHi8paMiO/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">Via </span><a href="http://www.thenshemade.com/2010/08/souper-storage-idea.html" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">Then She Made</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Get tense. </b>Tension
rods are not just for bathroom showers. They can make amazing organizational
tools in the kitchen in a variety of ways. Use them horizontally under the sink
to create a space to hang spray bottles or towels or use them vertically in a
cabinet to make a better home for cookie sheets and pizza stones.</div>
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_J8k7oBWW66WogTwMiJv3DjKQ4ks-qTe9RCy5OpsRGJA9sjiDbL6ztUgW5DZu7z9vyBEuVcXX3rbQ093JxvpQlC7hfoWA9qCYISZGzkGwv11_-S8CJnYsczsozaJgSbr-Ir4IQdYdYQX/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_J8k7oBWW66WogTwMiJv3DjKQ4ks-qTe9RCy5OpsRGJA9sjiDbL6ztUgW5DZu7z9vyBEuVcXX3rbQ093JxvpQlC7hfoWA9qCYISZGzkGwv11_-S8CJnYsczsozaJgSbr-Ir4IQdYdYQX/s400/2.jpg" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">Via </span><a href="http://www.jenthousandwords.com/2010/09/under-my-sink.html" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">A Thousand Words</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Get a butler for your fridge.</span></b>
For easy access to everyday condiments, keep your fridge free of clutter by
utilizing a storage option that spins.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4BDOgXchC0oaKlRnE_64azv_nClwQlmbFun_yQ1ca-UROZM2cBTuaFHASoruWygliQR9tX04ow-6_c5qyvQ7jcGuqvphJxmis5hR1l7lRT_MCqTpkJCg82IJDlMHGmdBtOAkjrHXEYRhT/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4BDOgXchC0oaKlRnE_64azv_nClwQlmbFun_yQ1ca-UROZM2cBTuaFHASoruWygliQR9tX04ow-6_c5qyvQ7jcGuqvphJxmis5hR1l7lRT_MCqTpkJCg82IJDlMHGmdBtOAkjrHXEYRhT/s400/3.jpg" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">Via </span><a href="http://fridgebutler.com/" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">Fridge Butler LLC</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Reuse.</b></span> There is no need to
grapple with “that place” in the kitchen were the plastic bags from the grocery
store accumulate into something resembling a smashed multi-colored snowman. If
you use plastic bags and store-bought cleaning wipes, you’re in luck. Re-purpose
old cleaning wipe containers into an attractive space-saving masterpiece that
harnesses all the power of those plastic bags into a convenient, tidy and
portable bag disposal unit.</span></div>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-s9pzlwn9XKvMkJH7YNV-pZ1vMv_irYkhUvRRKKAomt6xTBsWopGPHzMbU2bt5H7H5sBsAr9yC83fSnJFCMg_WfevIy6PxFY3RGMzHj7HUgb1CtuOGjgwfugqCnEWhYkSRF2e6ffLuhB/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-s9pzlwn9XKvMkJH7YNV-pZ1vMv_irYkhUvRRKKAomt6xTBsWopGPHzMbU2bt5H7H5sBsAr9yC83fSnJFCMg_WfevIy6PxFY3RGMzHj7HUgb1CtuOGjgwfugqCnEWhYkSRF2e6ffLuhB/s400/4.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">Via </span><a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2011/07/summer-social-guest-project-make_21.html" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">Tater Tots and Jello</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Get handy.</span></b> Those pesky
lids of pots and pans do nothing but take up high-quality cabinet real estate.
A simple hammer and nails can transform your pot and pan storage area into a
much more user-friendly space.</div>
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0FaeLV_71GpFQjB71CPHKLrXJp5p2K6vWV1Q7sc9jhHwg8AWBs9EggP22GI8-j7DuvOYytpho2sx-UOuraXEH4oz9TyKgIYfylZ_XLmiLbWUtOXWdatjp7VFFUhAdQrm15dltX75zyP_/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0FaeLV_71GpFQjB71CPHKLrXJp5p2K6vWV1Q7sc9jhHwg8AWBs9EggP22GI8-j7DuvOYytpho2sx-UOuraXEH4oz9TyKgIYfylZ_XLmiLbWUtOXWdatjp7VFFUhAdQrm15dltX75zyP_/s400/5.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">Via </span><a href="http://www.thecountrychiccottage.net/2012/01/clear-your-clutter-and-link-up-your.html" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">The Country Chic Cottage</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Make the pantry pretty.</b></span> An
inexpensive trip to the dollar store is all it takes to transform a cluttered
pantry into a symphony of organization and style. Investing in a variety of
air-tight containers appropriate for a variety of common items stored in
pantries, and taking the time to label them, can pay dividends when the time
comes to get cooking.</span></div>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwm4KzQwwLj3tN3Q0Erq4bEs_zDbVAqDtuVNun63bVhxIjOpL-Aro_t28i_BOVC9to5MYtzIaoRmhebKylixIqhaEpNL5FzDjX-YhoTdVqlhHHomxOmDLLgKrkCYenNhsAijdi0Yyoy6mS/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwm4KzQwwLj3tN3Q0Erq4bEs_zDbVAqDtuVNun63bVhxIjOpL-Aro_t28i_BOVC9to5MYtzIaoRmhebKylixIqhaEpNL5FzDjX-YhoTdVqlhHHomxOmDLLgKrkCYenNhsAijdi0Yyoy6mS/s400/6.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">Via </span><a href="http://thesocialhome.blogspot.ca/2012/02/pantry-pretty-dollar-store-pantry.html" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">The Social Home</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://modernize.com/">Modernize.com</a> is where you come to get inspired, see what's possible, and connect with a professional who will make your dream home a reality.<br />
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">xoxo</span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-71692248504469962672015-09-06T09:44:00.000-07:002015-09-29T06:03:32.575-07:00Our First NVHome: The First Giveaway! (Closed)<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0gz4RRMBetuBPw44Bkde6pTDUlwe3HTeeu_AivcGAYWRFYxXAvbvHgwmiSYj_96APU2WLCQp8yAbvChJ-83uK5RoMSgGRWhFwDNFfkH8gwpCyQEVYFC_gym4vsWsY4DrBkB70fzC2fBr/s1600/CAROUSEL-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0gz4RRMBetuBPw44Bkde6pTDUlwe3HTeeu_AivcGAYWRFYxXAvbvHgwmiSYj_96APU2WLCQp8yAbvChJ-83uK5RoMSgGRWhFwDNFfkH8gwpCyQEVYFC_gym4vsWsY4DrBkB70fzC2fBr/s200/CAROUSEL-1.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://homedepot.cashstar.com/gift-card/buy/?ref=THD1&cm_sp=1c02838b-899c-4dd4-8b5f-8d3f4ab1ba78" target="_blank">Home Depot Gift Card</a></td></tr>
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This blog was started to serve as a journal for our building process, but to also help others who were building or possibly thinking about building a new home! It has been great talking with so many new people. The fact that we have been able to share our experiences, learn from each other, and in a lot of cases, share mistakes to prevent them from happening again, has been truly a gift! </div>
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I never imagined this blog would bring so much excitement! I have learned so much and will continue to learn as we share more. I want to personally thank each of you for following our journey and sharing your experiences by hosting the fist of many giveaways! This giveaway is for a <b><u><span style="color: #b45f06;">$50 Home Depot</span></u></b> gift card (or eGift card) for one lucky reader to be used for your new or existing home. I played with so many ideas of what to have as the first giveaway, and although I have some grand ideas, since we spend <i>soooooo</i> much time at Home Depot, I figured what not just keep it simple, yet useful! </div>
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To enter for your chance to win, tell me:<br />
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<b>One valuable thing you have learned about the building process, or one thing you may do differently next time you buy or build a home <--- </b><i>that should be interesting</i>!<b> </b><br />
<b><br /></b>One valuable thing I learned was to document <u>every single thing</u>! Because I read horror stories before starting this blog, we documented everything, took tons of pictures, and even recorded videos. Documenting will save time and headaches! <br />
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<b><u>Giveaway Details</u></b><br />
The giveaway will run from September 6, 2015 - September 26, 2015 (the "Giveaway Period"). Enter by replying with an appropriate comment below during the Giveaway Period. One (1) winner will be selected at random on or about September 27, 2015, and will be contacted via email for confirmation and delivery options. Comment as often as you like, but only one (1) entry per day during the Giveaway Period will be entered to win. <br />
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Thank you again for hanging tough with us as we went from house to home. I appreciate you all and because of YOU, I can say starting this blog was an absolute success. </div>
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Best of luck!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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<i><b>*No purchase necessary to enter or win. This giveaway is open to US residents only. You must be 18 years or older to enter. Spam accounts are not eligible for this giveaway. Once the winner has been contacted and verified, the winner will be announced in a future post. USPS mailing or email addresses will not be stored or shared with anyone and will be solely used to communicate with the winner and delivery of gift card. This giveaway is not sponsored or affiliated with Home Depot. </b></i> </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-41805884153381688622015-09-04T05:57:00.000-07:002015-09-04T06:00:29.874-07:00Flow Wall Review + Pictures<div style="text-align: justify;">
Recently, I gave a brief update on our garage after taking a short break to focus on the laundry room shelving situation (more on that to come soon). To keep the posts from being too long, I thought I would circle back to give a more detailed review of the <a href="http://www.flowwall.com/?utm_source=cj&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=affiliates" target="_blank">Flow Wall</a> System.</div>
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<b><u>The Company</u></b></div>
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As I stated in my last <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/08/finishing-our-garage-episode-5-flow-wall.html" target="_blank">post</a>, they were absolutely wonderful to work with. All products were ordered online and shipped within the given timeframe. I do not remember how many total boxes we received, but there was one in particular that was delivered partially open. I believe this was a courier issue vs a <a href="http://www.flowwall.com/?utm_source=cj&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=affiliates" target="_blank">Flow Wall</a> issue. However, I contacted them because the shelves that were in this box were damaged. Flow Wall replaced them without question and shipped the order express. This was very unexpected, and caused me to become an instant fan of their customer service. </div>
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<b><u>The Products</u></b></div>
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I am sure you want to know the details about the product right? Some of the common questions asked included: Does it hold weighted items well? How easy was Flow Wall to install? Have you had any issues after install? Is Flow Wall expensive? What do you like most about Flow Wall? Let's answer these questions one at a time!</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-weight: bold;">Does it hold weighted items well?</b><b> </b>The quick answer is YES! We installed the system as instructed using the nails supplied with the panels. No other tools were purchased to install the panels or to help hold any weight. I have included some pictures below to show you my 'craft area' which include bins <u>loaded</u> with all types of crafty items. Shelves are still in place and did not warp. </li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>How easy was Flow Wall to install?</b> We found this system to be super easy to install! We did put the first few panels on upside down, but this was user error. We simply removed the panels and installed them correctly without any problems. This mistake resulted in extra holes on our panels but we are OK with that. It's not really noticeable, but it is surely there. We completed the entire install in one day total. It could have been quicker, but deciding where to put the panels was a chore within itself. We knew we did not have enough panels, so we wanted to ensure we left spacing for additional panels and bike holders in the future. I should also mention when we put up the shelves, we used a rubber mallet to adjust a few of the brackets that fit into the panels. I am unsure why this step was needed as all other pieces snapped into place easily. The shelves were stubborn and just did not want to go into the panels. Using a rubber mallet did not damage the shelves at all. A few good taps and we were back in business. </li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Have you had any issues after install?</b> We have had zero problems or issues with the Flow Wall System since install. The hooks and shelves are in until we decide to remove/relocate them. I tested the shelves by pulling and yanking and they are good to go (please don't do this to your precious shelves...just take my word). </li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Is Flow Wall expensive?</b> We honestly thought the pricing was really good and fair. When we priced different systems, Flow Wall was the better choice for us because they offer many different hooks and bins that could totally transform your system. By this I mean as you add more to your area (the garage in our case), you could add a cabinet, different shelving, larger bins, etc., to make the <i>same</i> panels work for your new additions. This is one thing that drove our decision. A lot of storage solutions are-what-they-are after you install them, leaving little to no room for growth. For us, we are always changing by addition or subtraction and we did not want to install a new system later on. </li>
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<li><b>What do you like most about Flow Wall?</b> I love everything, but if I had to pick my favorites, it would be all the different hooks and additions. The paper towel holder is great for the garage space. It holds a roll of paper towels with a spare up top. It was super easy to put together and functional. The hooks are awesome at holding everything and they come in various sizes to satisfy your every need. The larger hooks for ladders and yard tools actually hold the items <i>without </i>the worry of dropping the items. I thought the drill holder was not only functional, but it allows the drill to have its own 'home'. We will most likely add more drill holders for the rest of the drills, because it makes the wall look nice and organized. Lastly, I love that I can continue to add new pieces if the need should arise. I am not forced into one solution. If we decide we want to 'hide' items out of view, we could just get a cabinet or two and BOOM. Done! I should also mention that you can get Flow Wall from other retailers such as <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/s/flow%2520wall?NCNI-5" target="_blank">Home Depot</a> or my personal favorite, <a href="http://amzn.to/1L9l8Z0" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. </li>
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Overall, we could not be more happy to be <a href="http://www.flowwall.com/?utm_source=cj&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=affiliates" target="_blank">Flow Wall</a> customers. Recently, my husband installed a Flow Wall System with cabinets for my mother-in-law. The cabinets looked great and she loved the solution. If you are a bargain shopper like me, Flow Wall is good at having promotions on full systems or separate pieces such as panels or bins. We will finish the garage during the next panel sale, because you really can't beat the sales and promotions they offer. Other items we will purchase include more panels, bins and bike hooks. </div>
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I think I change the layout once a month, but here are the most current pictures from our garage. As always, let me know if you have other questions. I am happy to answer them all! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkmH35nj9ATeCGCAZzFZkbCbqULyDNu8dM8gI3mRB8kezo9Iys5bZL7cEecAVOhLcxWUwxBqHsJ8t16nonsDw45oKA1Qvu0QR88EhyXi6Y7Do65aWnR9dMtlagJnjsRdXaBL5oENuAIK9/s1600/IMG_3606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkmH35nj9ATeCGCAZzFZkbCbqULyDNu8dM8gI3mRB8kezo9Iys5bZL7cEecAVOhLcxWUwxBqHsJ8t16nonsDw45oKA1Qvu0QR88EhyXi6Y7Do65aWnR9dMtlagJnjsRdXaBL5oENuAIK9/s640/IMG_3606.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Craft storage area with <u>loaded</u> bins</b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDGozAelWsChsXtNqteKlq5DOfuTSbVW1oIwumjOcZYYGLcNJvOJ5ni0sJz9ajQjRoGTUDJesVokeycsl3Z0TftQzIDdx8rxG_Rb6LmdBChWXoIypytN_mOF7vdkK9Wyr0qMFFXhPUv3E/s1600/IMG_3607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDGozAelWsChsXtNqteKlq5DOfuTSbVW1oIwumjOcZYYGLcNJvOJ5ni0sJz9ajQjRoGTUDJesVokeycsl3Z0TftQzIDdx8rxG_Rb6LmdBChWXoIypytN_mOF7vdkK9Wyr0qMFFXhPUv3E/s640/IMG_3607.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Home 'tools' hung closer to the door for easy access</b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQRlj4brBf1a6XMFSf2Ot-8yAdfot-eeVDn5GNHp_lY9JB4Is-OI_YnW78MmuSyxs4-U0IQyLOsb0SU5Q1bioK2tD1GzcKVhkgoOE8r01kjDxxO6t1oNXGcbAWEgz6O80gnd5TiupGiFw/s1600/IMG_3608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQRlj4brBf1a6XMFSf2Ot-8yAdfot-eeVDn5GNHp_lY9JB4Is-OI_YnW78MmuSyxs4-U0IQyLOsb0SU5Q1bioK2tD1GzcKVhkgoOE8r01kjDxxO6t1oNXGcbAWEgz6O80gnd5TiupGiFw/s640/IMG_3608.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Tools for the Mr. and a couple of empty hooks and a shelf. One hook is for the ladder but I am currently using it for another project. </b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bLFXt6aYJGuQxR1bnmLLx_PSGplKBrDNHVmzklr4jRBFerDl5pHZHXu_j8rrWUQEZzGEDHn-r8uzI0t6pIoAnYZo4gnlLh55t1BSwllzTtNgyQ1ZyVeXlWvAe1R9mFLajjn5PD5Tn_tR/s1600/IMG_3610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bLFXt6aYJGuQxR1bnmLLx_PSGplKBrDNHVmzklr4jRBFerDl5pHZHXu_j8rrWUQEZzGEDHn-r8uzI0t6pIoAnYZo4gnlLh55t1BSwllzTtNgyQ1ZyVeXlWvAe1R9mFLajjn5PD5Tn_tR/s640/IMG_3610.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Mostly outdoor tools and yard 'stuff'</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlTES9OuBc1WXlEXRwn6OOQUU9xblIz2ViahR2RG-b4mg0dqESZOqDByyEeIbkonEYOwkoWXfN3G4vftN-l-Lp64TDG4uizviCo3uoTa40zJGNo7c_wx6Gq80h3JCeQCNU1Ogzv2M_Mks/s1600/IMG_3611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlTES9OuBc1WXlEXRwn6OOQUU9xblIz2ViahR2RG-b4mg0dqESZOqDByyEeIbkonEYOwkoWXfN3G4vftN-l-Lp64TDG4uizviCo3uoTa40zJGNo7c_wx6Gq80h3JCeQCNU1Ogzv2M_Mks/s640/IMG_3611.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Paper towel holder (love this)</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwX9WMelw9aVKDDWSO3b8dk6z6hyphenhyphenMbCos89ak052GYRmErDJ371AwzkUonjxQqV0pfpB5QLz6V2mjdWhis4atesCvQPn_miJRiNsGlDz5Bp5-UjupF7HAsDjMtmMiPMIvwjiUcM3jOhsH/s1600/IMG_3612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwX9WMelw9aVKDDWSO3b8dk6z6hyphenhyphenMbCos89ak052GYRmErDJ371AwzkUonjxQqV0pfpB5QLz6V2mjdWhis4atesCvQPn_miJRiNsGlDz5Bp5-UjupF7HAsDjMtmMiPMIvwjiUcM3jOhsH/s640/IMG_3612.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Paper towel holder</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ySZCBmeJwUrYPjiW7W2RopId7dAa-R77OetFAfXGUEnboPRFVUQ55U0vWAvUi9V3FXmsUZ5iOL7mttWoeYQppPyZ7k2BJE8wPLHLl07KEPOlXvDhrICtsbQjCZPQ2WbyLHoXJonlGHgL/s1600/IMG_3613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ySZCBmeJwUrYPjiW7W2RopId7dAa-R77OetFAfXGUEnboPRFVUQ55U0vWAvUi9V3FXmsUZ5iOL7mttWoeYQppPyZ7k2BJE8wPLHLl07KEPOlXvDhrICtsbQjCZPQ2WbyLHoXJonlGHgL/s640/IMG_3613.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Drill holder w/ drill</b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlrl1nQSn5OjAmVHDEzsO4frCjgtYJ437ZkJINTM6sUMadiIaC6Tcimb-ftPtIxjb6FVlauayBBb-Gvjqx9DhLiRbI_EJ5uRy_9pTonYqQdPFYLcZPgVpTO3uGxhw2Q21-4ztSjfQkKMb/s1600/IMG_3614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlrl1nQSn5OjAmVHDEzsO4frCjgtYJ437ZkJINTM6sUMadiIaC6Tcimb-ftPtIxjb6FVlauayBBb-Gvjqx9DhLiRbI_EJ5uRy_9pTonYqQdPFYLcZPgVpTO3uGxhw2Q21-4ztSjfQkKMb/s640/IMG_3614.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Drill holder without drill</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3b36LJou5svqw2tlYxh1kmKCl-ghLt_zdAvxJXlmH5e98F8ZZZWIyYdKogJ2_gTpt6evUs8TQi0CNT09zjb60hXB2m6a31uIB17_Yomxq7nwIFBSzs8j4U72EIZ0TM5_f-7JswdRZALUH/s1600/IMG_3616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3b36LJou5svqw2tlYxh1kmKCl-ghLt_zdAvxJXlmH5e98F8ZZZWIyYdKogJ2_gTpt6evUs8TQi0CNT09zjb60hXB2m6a31uIB17_Yomxq7nwIFBSzs8j4U72EIZ0TM5_f-7JswdRZALUH/s640/IMG_3616.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Flow Wall shelf</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmeruVad7Tz2ccrYeQqOQ574jcv47iTchWlNgZkQhPRr34dc8F0PHeSu_PBqK1cUj2deJrumjjsLqdQWiQtA83dIQX6-7P3rpcjNbpjm9lAZJm2FM3JigVpBi2Aj1n8O0YECxFKLSZUKg5/s1600/IMG_3618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmeruVad7Tz2ccrYeQqOQ574jcv47iTchWlNgZkQhPRr34dc8F0PHeSu_PBqK1cUj2deJrumjjsLqdQWiQtA83dIQX6-7P3rpcjNbpjm9lAZJm2FM3JigVpBi2Aj1n8O0YECxFKLSZUKg5/s640/IMG_3618.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Small bin used for smaller paints</b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXqgkRlc7rvcRcbSKRCJyCEB8q0tJCbuzbqnOQM5t3DsUFea9dnXnSRpvM-lv8No2Cnh34En90mb-6_MI8lY_pJkjct7mscaoEkRe9LEAFS4ENAzu6tTPS8fgz3a_mftyydch0MuX7DOc5/s1600/IMG_3619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXqgkRlc7rvcRcbSKRCJyCEB8q0tJCbuzbqnOQM5t3DsUFea9dnXnSRpvM-lv8No2Cnh34En90mb-6_MI8lY_pJkjct7mscaoEkRe9LEAFS4ENAzu6tTPS8fgz3a_mftyydch0MuX7DOc5/s640/IMG_3619.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Above: Bin that holds knee pads, towels and tool belt (I like to dress the part sometimes) :-)</b></td></tr>
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<i>I received the paper towel and drill holder from Flow Wall in exchange for my unbiased review. All comments are my own.</i><br />
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xoxo</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-77295499665477483082015-08-20T09:50:00.000-07:002015-08-20T10:06:53.650-07:00Finishing Our Garage: Episode 5 (Flow Wall) <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0h-Tt1J_KnmN4LFKbs-FwdVtn5WwTtzev7PsMuajQFmNH5QtpZaagr0sOPyIce_SqHcPn1yI0oVPZYM4MP165oBQrCA3_0yeGnxBD2Mclx3cP_Kik5iHt0nlTVDmJO1d0lPkazZzOOag/s1600/IMG_3146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0h-Tt1J_KnmN4LFKbs-FwdVtn5WwTtzev7PsMuajQFmNH5QtpZaagr0sOPyIce_SqHcPn1yI0oVPZYM4MP165oBQrCA3_0yeGnxBD2Mclx3cP_Kik5iHt0nlTVDmJO1d0lPkazZzOOag/s200/IMG_3146.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
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I am back again with another episode on <i><b>Finishing Our Garage</b></i>. So now that we have our walls painted, lights switched out, and replaced the switch wall plate with a pop of color, it's time to get organized. A lot of our neighbors have recently put in a lot of work on their garage spaces. They all look very nice and offer a different flair. </div>
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For us, we did not know what we wanted to use to get things on the wall because there are so many freaking options. We had to decide what worked best for the tools and equipment we had AND what would be the most cost efficient way to get it done. Our final decision was the best decision for us. We decided to go with with <a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-7858615-11741224-1426180826000" target="_blank">Flow Wall</a> for our organizational solution. They are absolutely a <b><span style="color: red;">gem</span></b> of a company, and they have sales and specials that makes it very affordable. </div>
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We ordered some panels (the brain of this operation), then ordered hooks, shelves and bins. When one of our orders got delivered, a couple of shelves were damaged. I contacted them and you would not believe that not only did I speak to a 'real' person, they had our replacement shelves delivered to us ASAP. Great customer service will win me over every single time! To learn more about the company and what they offer, visit their <a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-7858615-11741224-1426180826000" target="_blank">site</a>. If you have questions about how to get what you need for your space, feel free to reach out to them. They will help you plan the entire project. The cool thing is you do not have to order everything at one time. You can piece your space together as you see fit, or if you want to break it up so it fits the budget, you can do that as well. I should also mention that you can use <a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-7858615-11741224-1426180826000" target="_blank">Flow Wall</a> for any space you need organizing: closets, laundry rooms, or garages! </div>
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The pieces come complete with instructions and if you are like me and need a little extra help, you could always call them directly and get help over the phone. Whooo Hooo </div>
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Pictures are my favorite part, so let's get to it. Here are a few pictures and I will be sure to share more once it has been totally completed. We will be ordering more panels to complete the entire garage as well as extra bins, shelves and bike hooks during the next panel sale. 75% of the garage is complete with <a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-7858615-11741224-1426180826000" target="_blank">Flow Wall</a>. There are 'sections' allocated to 'house tools', 'yard tools', etc to keep it simple. Sometimes the project manager/Lean Six Sigma comes out of me and I go a little overboard with organizing. So far, I haven't drove my poor husband crazy so all is well! LOL <br />
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<b><u><i>Giveaway</i></u></b>: Flow Wall is hosting a Labor Day Giveaway which offers you the chance to win a Silver Hook and Panel Starter Set valued at $199.99. Visit their site to enter for your chance to win! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9-QUJYV4rR42wXmnEYPHayic_jZHYj7TPAT26ubcH4gwoumDj05qQkui1Bf-VeMsHHmwcmuKFZmDrtu2DEs0I-9lVN1UzCiq874UlG4ewry1YmrarRSqxUS0fL5fY2FokZopxXJQRPN0/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9-QUJYV4rR42wXmnEYPHayic_jZHYj7TPAT26ubcH4gwoumDj05qQkui1Bf-VeMsHHmwcmuKFZmDrtu2DEs0I-9lVN1UzCiq874UlG4ewry1YmrarRSqxUS0fL5fY2FokZopxXJQRPN0/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Panels arrive</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwzEbWwBokqyEHAYpA1UfJoEqHJ4iw3CXecYitjLxD1pfM8J1kD92CngqIF6Eql5XzvTrB45S2usRhfW4Juxw-h3MIjPfPXcbFra8XFClQvGT434VMciVSoTI3iaTRrDtgcyidh5Ji71j/s1600/IMG_3115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwzEbWwBokqyEHAYpA1UfJoEqHJ4iw3CXecYitjLxD1pfM8J1kD92CngqIF6Eql5XzvTrB45S2usRhfW4Juxw-h3MIjPfPXcbFra8XFClQvGT434VMciVSoTI3iaTRrDtgcyidh5Ji71j/s400/IMG_3115.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Installing the hooks</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUq5SkOAdBHUGF9oFWopGbE8vM0VhlMYn6TMJBKI-iIyS83KeZtUHLLqO6zj2dl_iRlIQRL2Ym5WDjtrx3mZ9LF5OKzUdusAadpb6naq_S5YNK_bIoPI8LzVQaoz4t1-vZPHL0BYZlPVU/s1600/IMG_3116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUq5SkOAdBHUGF9oFWopGbE8vM0VhlMYn6TMJBKI-iIyS83KeZtUHLLqO6zj2dl_iRlIQRL2Ym5WDjtrx3mZ9LF5OKzUdusAadpb6naq_S5YNK_bIoPI8LzVQaoz4t1-vZPHL0BYZlPVU/s400/IMG_3116.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Installing more hooks (very easy)</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDtEHSq7k9kXKPZNqcIdBNb59v1LRFwyis80H6A5W2J7xVcYiBM9CbRXMFTtHjpTzapqUfLUIm5VPQSCNPClejm30nQ4bfqHXB6lobnXrc5uyre7N_Xr0-pOXut4OBkactKEtBE_PPWxFw/s1600/IMG_3117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDtEHSq7k9kXKPZNqcIdBNb59v1LRFwyis80H6A5W2J7xVcYiBM9CbRXMFTtHjpTzapqUfLUIm5VPQSCNPClejm30nQ4bfqHXB6lobnXrc5uyre7N_Xr0-pOXut4OBkactKEtBE_PPWxFw/s640/IMG_3117.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Final wall</i></b></td></tr>
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xoxoAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-72703544477480131072015-08-20T08:41:00.000-07:002015-08-20T08:41:52.108-07:00Making Our Water Soft(er): Yay or Nay<br />
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It's almost Friday so I thought I would share our experience as we play with the option of installing a water softener system. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0YVtPgqd0eJE74XphIr5MaEF9fF__oHAzvcOb-VSUMPuP43KEH7B_JxsJTIW4pbPwOZSmjj3fUrraz0213o-Fa4ShLGD2u_RUn7QUppfZOPCz2RS4SgS9ba5r2bcQHiFZl38I2pSp1eG_/s1600/IMG_3074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0YVtPgqd0eJE74XphIr5MaEF9fF__oHAzvcOb-VSUMPuP43KEH7B_JxsJTIW4pbPwOZSmjj3fUrraz0213o-Fa4ShLGD2u_RUn7QUppfZOPCz2RS4SgS9ba5r2bcQHiFZl38I2pSp1eG_/s200/IMG_3074.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Kinetico brochure</i></b></td></tr>
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Growing up, we never spoke of a water softener system. I knew that when I traveled to different regions, the water had a different taste from home, but never thought anything more beyond that. After many showers in our new home, I realized I was a little more ashy and 'dry' than normal. I am one of those people who MUST apply moisturizer or lotion after any water activity. I like to feel soft and smelling good is always a plus!!! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_m_eAo1Pq436F0QvQBAfQ85Z5G99UQZVpq09PrnlK0_0TMjpHSms-6GX8-3EBVMtpeFOYt0GzHtg7O1WUmxPLsgug9FUi1z2kccxF5QK2biMbYsFXeBcs0rqHgrsw5GyP_7hGc1TB9a5/s1600/IMG_3073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_m_eAo1Pq436F0QvQBAfQ85Z5G99UQZVpq09PrnlK0_0TMjpHSms-6GX8-3EBVMtpeFOYt0GzHtg7O1WUmxPLsgug9FUi1z2kccxF5QK2biMbYsFXeBcs0rqHgrsw5GyP_7hGc1TB9a5/s200/IMG_3073.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Kinetico Sales Rep </i></b></td></tr>
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So we decided to get our water tested for water hardness as we played with the option of adding a water softener system to the home. Our interest was to price out some systems, while learning more about the different options. There are a few big names out there, as well as some smaller companies. We decided to have a representative from <a href="http://www.kinetico.com/water-softener/" target="_blank">Kinetico</a> come out and give us his 'spill'. I must say that he was not a pushy salesman and he did not ring our phone off the hook afterwards. Based on the reviews, it is very common of this company to not be so pushy with potential customers. I can appreciate that because sometimes you just need to 'think' for a while right? </div>
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So, he came out and performed a series of tests on our water to determine how hard the water was as well as the impurity levels. While there were no impurity issues, our water was considered "hard" on the hardness scale. He showed us the different systems...and then he showed us the price. </div>
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The price tag was a little over $2K and maintenance did not seem to be an issue. I will say that based off my research (and they will confirm), their system is not for the DIY-er. With that, I wanted to make sure I read there warranty because if something was to go wrong, I would want them out ASAP. I wanted to make sure they offered locations throughout the US because if we moved and took the system, I need the maintenance crew to be available. Overall, the warranty was pretty good and I liked them. However, we want to speak to more people and hear from real-life customers who used their services. </div>
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We are still "thinking" as we have larger priorities at the time. I will keep you posted on what we decide. </div>
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Have you installed or thought about installing a water softener system? Which company did you decide to use and why? What do you love about having one? Any regrets?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj40jCTFjiYTH5Gi5FtB-5afRo9kkkDxBZeNHYMJLbK4v7GawVRqWzPvZ2w4ti3WarHhCjPbXwuUQi_xijFg-fhxo9OFvbFhvSk5XghWa-Hmgwblxu2RmQuWh1tnJMH83hQZKeR0Y69ODSd/s1600/IMG_3067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj40jCTFjiYTH5Gi5FtB-5afRo9kkkDxBZeNHYMJLbK4v7GawVRqWzPvZ2w4ti3WarHhCjPbXwuUQi_xijFg-fhxo9OFvbFhvSk5XghWa-Hmgwblxu2RmQuWh1tnJMH83hQZKeR0Y69ODSd/s400/IMG_3067.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Preparing the water sample</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjG9WizynM6L96KFru-MTaxAYjaBBy_UVpAv9et0O-oSFd4rBeeCABuzcIkVUuKQi4A8pdAr-cbCHvucnh9m2fZov-nw6zUIUF3m4td7Urnlu1zU-ZZuLsyNteYZWihodhNwN7m6ODrkE/s1600/IMG_3070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjG9WizynM6L96KFru-MTaxAYjaBBy_UVpAv9et0O-oSFd4rBeeCABuzcIkVUuKQi4A8pdAr-cbCHvucnh9m2fZov-nw6zUIUF3m4td7Urnlu1zU-ZZuLsyNteYZWihodhNwN7m6ODrkE/s400/IMG_3070.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Hardness level identified</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbnLyuMiAD4XsCfKTnf82PE441CD6I4b-VcaYM7pot9huiHz4XGEaWd6qUZU4k8-EwRdSLfRVcL5fvs2NkTIWpbxE2MrTQlXNBo1Tsj2PxhspAqkiAVR9utrmSFctjBIPaFpR_2IXlPbn/s1600/IMG_3071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbnLyuMiAD4XsCfKTnf82PE441CD6I4b-VcaYM7pot9huiHz4XGEaWd6qUZU4k8-EwRdSLfRVcL5fvs2NkTIWpbxE2MrTQlXNBo1Tsj2PxhspAqkiAVR9utrmSFctjBIPaFpR_2IXlPbn/s400/IMG_3071.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Above: Performing a carbon comparison on the fridge water</i></b></td></tr>
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xoxoAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-10075616685345641092015-08-18T05:58:00.003-07:002015-08-18T05:58:39.903-07:00Finishing Our Garage: Episode 4 (the lights)<div style="text-align: justify;">
I must apologize for the slight hiatus! We have been super busy with those darn laundry room shelves. Oh my...when you think something will be easy but turns out to be pure evil... </div>
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I will share those details with you soon, but let me update you all on our garage space! </div>
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We have finished the lighting in the garage, which turned out to be a little more work than planned, but <strike>we</strike> my husband made it happen!</div>
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As you may have seen in previous posts, we started out with 'regular' garage lighting, nothing fancy, just two lights controlled by a regular switch. If not, you can check out our garage before picture <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/07/finishing-our-garage-episode-3-door.html" target="_blank">here</a> or <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/07/finishing-our-garage-episode-2-walls.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Being that we wanted the space to feel more like an extension of our home, this project called for the following:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Changing the 'regular' lights to recessed can lights</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Re-patching and painting the (entire) ceiling (not planned)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Replacing bulbs with LEDs </li>
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In <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/07/finishing-our-garage-episode-3-door.html" target="_blank">episode 3</a>, I showed you how we replaced the switch and switch plate for the lighting control. </div>
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To start, my husband had to cut bigger holes in the ceiling so the recessed can lights would fit (I will list the supplies we used below). We used one of the templates that came with the can to cut out drywall. We started by cutting off small pieces at a time until the right dimensions were cut. I am sure there is a more technical way to do this, but we took the safe route. We did not want to cut too much drywall, resulting in more patch work at the end. .</div>
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Once the drywall was cut, the cans were successfully installed. We patched and painted the ceiling, allowing adequate drying time between coats. The problem we ran into was seeing the paint roller marks on the ceiling...which wasn't the end of the world, but we wanted to make it as uniform as possible. We tried to just repaint those two areas, but in the end we had to roll the <b>entire</b> ceiling again to achieve uniformity. Things turned out great and we love the new lighting effect and polished look. </div>
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<u>Alternative</u>: if you are not into recessed can lighting and want to do something a little more 'funky', there are tons of lighting options for you. How about track lighting or lights with an added shade? Have fun with the space, but make sure it's still functional for you. Be sure to share your space with me. I love seeing all the new ideas! </div>
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<u><b>Supplies/Tools Used:</b></u><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1WBJC63" target="_blank">Recessed light frame</a></li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1WBJjIB" target="_blank">Light trim in aluminum</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.behr.com/consumer/products/interior-paint-and-primer/behr-premium-plus-ceiling-paint" target="_blank">Ceiling paint</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Sheetrock-Easy-Sand-45-Lightweight-18-lb-Setting-Type-Joint-Compound-384210/100321610" target="_blank">Easy Sand 45</a></li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1NCzBQ8" target="_blank">Joint knife</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/EcoSmart-65W-Equivalent-Bright-White-3000K-BR30-Dimmable-LED-Light-Bulb-ECS-BR30-65WE-WW-120-G1-BL/205523889" target="_blank">LEDs</a></li>
</ul>
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<b>And finally, here are a few pictures:</b></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5hRzlrowHhaTyi1j5PCkVU8ZYcOh9uMR7chdSKhzJsBwYk_SboEE90XA9HMQsuTcf3J_3PzaqgIbjy2mEu2VpnRv7LxdQ_qaPz6OmsoKwN5xQ1n_UxtQudWDQpC0DIYputRKCwut5SHs/s1600/IMG_2768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5hRzlrowHhaTyi1j5PCkVU8ZYcOh9uMR7chdSKhzJsBwYk_SboEE90XA9HMQsuTcf3J_3PzaqgIbjy2mEu2VpnRv7LxdQ_qaPz6OmsoKwN5xQ1n_UxtQudWDQpC0DIYputRKCwut5SHs/s640/IMG_2768.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Before</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9Q6y5s7muOHjKbjB_OiMpd6eODz-x0GblZAJEDsuyvm8Drw86BiqsUnbu5rqij2XjHTXSh9XgVReA-qEZoSvCbHU2YPtYyJDPkkO0vIdwRXyoE10pu-Tj7aPRX7fnneuB-WCWvw0Dkgb/s1600/IMG_2777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9Q6y5s7muOHjKbjB_OiMpd6eODz-x0GblZAJEDsuyvm8Drw86BiqsUnbu5rqij2XjHTXSh9XgVReA-qEZoSvCbHU2YPtYyJDPkkO0vIdwRXyoE10pu-Tj7aPRX7fnneuB-WCWvw0Dkgb/s640/IMG_2777.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Husband hard at work changing the old lights</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLXF4ETHajp51mxeIgqtF9fW_AXpy5M3QKlKoj1y32NKxbo7005nmwL6aMjOIEp9uNbztDmxm1pNRO7_M2PXUSGOp3r5r9pIB1bX1rkzPvlKwL9Gwgcn3wEtFXE4pQPaCxDxtmmEhIycu/s1600/IMG_2797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLXF4ETHajp51mxeIgqtF9fW_AXpy5M3QKlKoj1y32NKxbo7005nmwL6aMjOIEp9uNbztDmxm1pNRO7_M2PXUSGOp3r5r9pIB1bX1rkzPvlKwL9Gwgcn3wEtFXE4pQPaCxDxtmmEhIycu/s640/IMG_2797.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>After install and before patch work</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm339tjq7O3jq__7twN2zAEtDZhgx_j560dpUi0JnT6DhLLHCH-NM3jNTm1Xo-7fnkGE_GFY7Mrb8teLPT4FLwrnwu9t_8gWv5Ao8JxajOIjXAzefoFf6TXH4woY5_jDjo3Im7jujTgDkA/s1600/IMG_3018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm339tjq7O3jq__7twN2zAEtDZhgx_j560dpUi0JnT6DhLLHCH-NM3jNTm1Xo-7fnkGE_GFY7Mrb8teLPT4FLwrnwu9t_8gWv5Ao8JxajOIjXAzefoFf6TXH4woY5_jDjo3Im7jujTgDkA/s640/IMG_3018.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Final product!</i></b></td></tr>
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Next, I will share how we organized our garage space and what we decided to use to help us achieve our look while being friendly to our pockets! </div>
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<br />xoxo</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-10407115604316219442015-07-27T07:21:00.000-07:002015-07-27T07:21:23.133-07:00New Home, New PestLet's chat briefly about pest and your home! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ3m_UKqunzoBi1KzHYA5e-j24PwY_Cb0FH12VG27ZwWhzm2UssdMnUVQgfzL4zvY9_nZfk7b6QV2Jzz63_XKmFeHrm5fKpHl0fEA90bCEXnqiKxTKSBmt5c9i4Hd9ylmLEYhoQ546Ob4K/s1600/IMG_3199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ3m_UKqunzoBi1KzHYA5e-j24PwY_Cb0FH12VG27ZwWhzm2UssdMnUVQgfzL4zvY9_nZfk7b6QV2Jzz63_XKmFeHrm5fKpHl0fEA90bCEXnqiKxTKSBmt5c9i4Hd9ylmLEYhoQ546Ob4K/s200/IMG_3199.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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When you started to build your home, did you ever think about the homes you could destroy in the process? I sure did not, but I will never forget again. </div>
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Here is a quick summary of what happens. When your home is being constructed and there are multiple days of pounding, digging, cutting, and caving going on, the little critters in the ground, who has found and built homes are being disturbed the entire time. </div>
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We have now been in our home for nearly eight months, and there were no sightings of bugs <i>until</i> they started building the row of townhomes behind us. <b>OH MY GOSH</b>...first, let me explain to you my issue. I can not do spiders. I hate them, they probably hate me back, but we need to be able to hate each other from afar. I seriously <u>freak the freak out</u>! It's almost like something comes over me and I can't think, speak, blink, breathe, or comprehend! I'm pretty sure professional help is much needed at this point. So imagine coming down to the lower level on three different occasions to wolf spiders. YES, three wolf spiders within a month. I did not go into the man cave alone for a little while. </div>
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Although we had not seen anymore since the three amigos came to visit, we agreed that pest control would be good at this point. A company, by the name of <a href="http://alterrapest.com/" target="_blank">Alterra</a> stopped by our home and after we did our research and read reviews (thank you yelp), we Said Yes to the Pest (control) and they were out the very next day. When bugs of any sort are up for discussion, it's important to remember that even if you aren't afraid of them, they could be harmful to you and your family (including pets). I am sure they have their benefits, but they also bite, crawl into nose and ear openings, and they are not the cutest little things. I feel like if you are a bug and your environment is outside, I will not invade or disturb you or your home (on purpose). However, if you enter my home, you are now out of YOUR environment and all bets are off. Not joking! I will spray anything I can get my hands on to destroy you. </div>
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I would suggest that if you do not already have a plan for pest control, please consider one. They live in attics too (places we don't tend to visit on a regular). Also, as the seasons come and go, so will the bugs. They need warmth for the winter months, so now would be a great time to get ahead of them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvplB2JcQBE6t4vixt0_HlE53pLNZRTyIZqNlodpNpAO78_u3DPrVNvz5rVpSDMcMwOdZMKM8xsnFJNRzxGqmdugy8xlZh4sFAw2m46zIndK4whMJ8YfoXzzeJG8sd0V9zlpgv5zWmHFo/s1600/IMG_3197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvplB2JcQBE6t4vixt0_HlE53pLNZRTyIZqNlodpNpAO78_u3DPrVNvz5rVpSDMcMwOdZMKM8xsnFJNRzxGqmdugy8xlZh4sFAw2m46zIndK4whMJ8YfoXzzeJG8sd0V9zlpgv5zWmHFo/s320/IMG_3197.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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As I mentioned, we went with <a href="http://alterrapest.com/" target="_blank">Alterra</a> for our pest control needs. The guy was very professional and told us exactly how he would attack the house. He asked us if there were any spaces we did not want treated and after a firm "NO", he started on the lower level and worked his way upstairs, ending outside. Their treatment is not harmful to humans or pets (as we do have a little <a href="https://instagram.com/dieseltheyorkie/" target="_blank">yorkie</a>), but he told us to keep him away from the product for about 30 minutes. Do your research on your pest control company. In our community, <a href="http://alterrapest.com/" target="_blank">Alterra</a> is known for being pushy with the sales tactics. We did not have this experience, but everyone is not the same. Do what's best for you and your home. Make sure you have some type of guarantee and call-back service <b><i>if</i></b> you were to see a little critter on a Tuesday morning! We liked what they offered, the price point was good, and the reviews were favorable. </div>
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Are you as afraid of bugs as I am? Please don't tell me I am the only one! Perhaps you faced your fears and can share with me how you did it??? </div>
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xoxo <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-83416196434266090372015-07-16T12:30:00.002-07:002015-07-21T12:58:43.827-07:00Finishing Our Garage: Episode 3 (the door)<br />
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Today on <b><i>Finishing Our Garage</i></b>, it's all about the garage door and switch replacement. We painted our garage door early on when we had the rest of the house painted. Check out this <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/02/in-progress-update-pics.html" target="_blank">post</a> on what was done then. For a door with such a simple responsibility, I have changed the "hello" sign three freakin' times (black, white, now red)! You gotta love Etsy right? </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtnJ2j1us68Dky5__pTxe2r0RPRejYBgIwFEy6_IZt1UhCIg59785zMI3UQC4k4m_m9dgzObi2476b11UFwu9uf12u0P6nnxguvGNWWMdkbiJ_jK3Ja_LSqfTfB0MwPXPxthvNeqph3Bp/s1600/IMG_3167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtnJ2j1us68Dky5__pTxe2r0RPRejYBgIwFEy6_IZt1UhCIg59785zMI3UQC4k4m_m9dgzObi2476b11UFwu9uf12u0P6nnxguvGNWWMdkbiJ_jK3Ja_LSqfTfB0MwPXPxthvNeqph3Bp/s320/IMG_3167.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><i>L: Original type switch </i></b></div>
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<b><b style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><i>R: Legrand replacement (with night light on)</i></b></b></div>
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<b><u>Why did we change the garage switch?</u></b></div>
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One thing on our list while building was to remove as much of the builder grade items as possible...this included the light switches. I talk <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/04/and-then-there-was-light.html" target="_blank">here</a> about the switch changes made inside the home. We wanted to continue this in the garage as well, so we changed out the regular switch to <a href="https://www.legrand.us/adorne.aspx" target="_blank">Adorne by Legrand</a> switches. Although Lutron's are mostly inside (for use with the Savant System), Legrand is another great option for switches and dimmers. The good thing about <a href="https://www.legrand.us/" target="_blank">Legrand</a> is you can switch the paddle and/or wall plates whenever you like. If you change the color of the walls, simply buy yourself another wall plate and BAM! The plates snap on and off so it is super easy for us ladies to do alone! And you can find these in stores like Home Depot and Lowe's which is great when you don't wish to wait for shipping. </div>
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Here is the switch and accessory we placed in the garage:</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8HWEACrc8JKllqSGDu0AziR8q6Mz1F2BHsrGxpjvZ89ex94tYfVNEHTljoelYX_bszjBlsGBxxAesmBDObK-AdiVKzjv39rGQ0A7ulQTmTlkzD2rWGwh42b-8ttY9ryTKFb6qJcnV51O/s1600/IMG_3148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8HWEACrc8JKllqSGDu0AziR8q6Mz1F2BHsrGxpjvZ89ex94tYfVNEHTljoelYX_bszjBlsGBxxAesmBDObK-AdiVKzjv39rGQ0A7ulQTmTlkzD2rWGwh42b-8ttY9ryTKFb6qJcnV51O/s200/IMG_3148.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Adorne Night light</i></b></td></tr>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1M65gf2" target="_blank">Adorne Paddle Switch</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1K10pv8" target="_blank">Adorne Accent Night Light</a></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A red wall plate was the color we wanted, and Home Depot had it in stock. My husband installed the plate and the night light using the easy-to-follow directions. This accessory provides a small little light underneath the switch. You can even control how bright or dim you want the light just by waving your finger underneath. They sell everything you need and you can add or not add, and still have a very custom-looking and functional switch. </div>
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<b><u>Door trim</u></b></div>
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I love the idea of painting trim throughout the house, but I do not want to do it in the house just yet. So I figured I could "play" with the garage space and not feel bad if I messed it up. Since the walls are now gray, we both decided red would be a great color for the door trim. I've always had a love for red, but this inspiration actually came from a dust pan recently purchased at Crate and Barrel. It was the perfect red and instantly fell in love with it because it matched the Legrand wall plate so well. I simply popped off the wall plate, took it to Home Depot and she scanned it on their spectrophotometer to give me the best matched color for the trim. Most paint stores have these devices. You can take anything and have it matched. This tool reads wavelengths of reflected light and computerize the color measurements. It may not be exact but it will super close to the natural eye. It takes a quick second for them to get the measurements they need. They pop those number in the paint color maker machine (not the real technical name at all), and within minutes, you have your custom color. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiineoHUHn7J6lMGwPbPXpNxc5VHWA9nvcbbLzCJtep1sQkgGfMmSKUzzUvmlBdfbOQIcVpeDTfZ8ZvKLqnmsrt9OzuPTDXjRbmqKb-uG16UxrNwzoWY6Q4RW6VYm7dsugQbvl-pXoAZrWZ/s1600/IMG_2972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiineoHUHn7J6lMGwPbPXpNxc5VHWA9nvcbbLzCJtep1sQkgGfMmSKUzzUvmlBdfbOQIcVpeDTfZ8ZvKLqnmsrt9OzuPTDXjRbmqKb-uG16UxrNwzoWY6Q4RW6VYm7dsugQbvl-pXoAZrWZ/s640/IMG_2972.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Home Depot Paint Center - custom red color being made</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguGGgoLUK4ZWEKwxA1Xtv20v1ufecxgoFlIIH75cM8AZbJomIHwEdZD6FQMuu48OBKzRlk5i6U-J69cpYeUlCJ1P_BSdL4KnWp-r0vjGvOAfXn4aTiIl-FD6Rg1fpT4VKsrwVdG3itQ85a/s1600/IMG_2976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguGGgoLUK4ZWEKwxA1Xtv20v1ufecxgoFlIIH75cM8AZbJomIHwEdZD6FQMuu48OBKzRlk5i6U-J69cpYeUlCJ1P_BSdL4KnWp-r0vjGvOAfXn4aTiIl-FD6Rg1fpT4VKsrwVdG3itQ85a/s400/IMG_2976.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Home Depot: selecting the right paint</i></b></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijONPOyoE2nT5w58qgQrKX9k7jWHx7w0I92bd93GmksOf1EKwX7U4awFJf8NzvqERP1_yPiqH6oyxl17zj17zikqAyQ9ZqrhL7AjuCMxV0xaVFOB76BJQi2v2rJyuoOePd4Ep0ZoYGb6EZ/s1600/IMG_2978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijONPOyoE2nT5w58qgQrKX9k7jWHx7w0I92bd93GmksOf1EKwX7U4awFJf8NzvqERP1_yPiqH6oyxl17zj17zikqAyQ9ZqrhL7AjuCMxV0xaVFOB76BJQi2v2rJyuoOePd4Ep0ZoYGb6EZ/s320/IMG_2978.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="http://www.behr.com/consumer/products/marqueeguarantee" target="_blank">Behr Marquee</a></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3q61lJ3FmgINq4crKv5djtDynjMNEL0UIQa7n_kGdBt4mCBh1PfbtiHaQib8za9fZ66msI61XOO7cp5hLaeYmd9RFbPiwx5s6H-G1-hgz6JKLo0y6dOU7rG0pUzpLenamBbVTiloqh9ox/s1600/IMG_2977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3q61lJ3FmgINq4crKv5djtDynjMNEL0UIQa7n_kGdBt4mCBh1PfbtiHaQib8za9fZ66msI61XOO7cp5hLaeYmd9RFbPiwx5s6H-G1-hgz6JKLo0y6dOU7rG0pUzpLenamBbVTiloqh9ox/s320/IMG_2977.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our Behr Marquee color</i></b></td></tr>
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I only needed a quart, so I went with Behr Marquee One Coat Color paint. If you are painting with a really colored paint, be sure to get one of the better coating ones. This will prevent you from having to do multiple coats. Remember, the more coloring in your paint, the thinner the paint. The thinner the paint, the more coats you will need. </div>
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Everything turned out great and we love it! I should also mentioned that I painted the garage door wiring to match the wall since it was stark white! Using a tiny amount of paint with a small paint brush (and a ladder) to make it not stand out so much! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfY1hngB531vtL3k1NpsMr2l6tPZxS7UJOR5foco4eLuvKJ8hKFuaBvopaXdqegBDXuSVRyNkTZSQHEaBCWKiQhxixMIFeuZO_WUKfsDLnhw6pGp2nK1NHSRQWB5efwSS38JoK_odlH6B/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfY1hngB531vtL3k1NpsMr2l6tPZxS7UJOR5foco4eLuvKJ8hKFuaBvopaXdqegBDXuSVRyNkTZSQHEaBCWKiQhxixMIFeuZO_WUKfsDLnhw6pGp2nK1NHSRQWB5efwSS38JoK_odlH6B/s640/3.jpg" width="510" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Final garage door #love</i></b></td></tr>
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xoxo<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-73400743057850008202015-07-16T06:47:00.003-07:002015-07-16T06:47:59.593-07:00Painting Discount Just For YOU!<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpL9_AF03-rTShuZudqYG8LA0q6WbOk5R3wPdS_78WQlKz3n1KNtmZhAPhhQrYH5hkMoDSEhrX10nt_qV68NOMcqSzjS5JSJvRjC4c__QzB0vM9cijOpWRrOxAaK7WJ-5TrXmnmsG2j9Nh/s1600/lp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpL9_AF03-rTShuZudqYG8LA0q6WbOk5R3wPdS_78WQlKz3n1KNtmZhAPhhQrYH5hkMoDSEhrX10nt_qV68NOMcqSzjS5JSJvRjC4c__QzB0vM9cijOpWRrOxAaK7WJ-5TrXmnmsG2j9Nh/s320/lp.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.libertypaintingco.com/" target="_blank"><b><i>Liberty Painting Co.</i></b></a></td></tr>
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<b><u>Happy Thursday! </u></b></div>
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Many of you know that we had our entire house painted shortly after moving in for a couple of reasons: 1) We thought it would be easier to get things painted <i>before</i> we ordered furniture and 2) We were not mentally able to look at the builder grade walls much longer. You can see our painting choices and read more <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/02/in-progress-update-pics.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://www.libertypaintingco.com/" target="_blank">Liberty Painting Co.</a> and I have some great news to share with all of YOU! <b>If you live in the DMV area and are looking to have your entire home painted, they are offering a 10% discount on these services to my readers.</b> All you have to do is mention my name ("Eboni") when obtaining your quote, and 10% will be deducted from your whole house painting estimate. Saaaayyy Whaaaa???</div>
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The team at <a href="http://www.libertypaintingco.com/" target="_blank">Liberty Painting Co.</a> are great to work with. We found them to be efficient, friendly, have the best prices in the area, and most importantly deliver a great quality of work. They covered everything and cleaned thoroughly before leaving! We purchased our own paint and just had them do all the work. During your quote, they will tell you how much paint you will need for a particular room and the best finishes for a particular area so you're not left guessing! </div>
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I am so excited to have a little 'gift' to share with you all. You all know I love to save a buck or two when I can, so I had to look out for you too! Be sure to share those pictures of your painted walls when they are done. I would LOVE to see them!</div>
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<i>Thanks again to Liberty Painting Co, for supporting my readers!</i> </div>
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Happy Painting</div>
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xoxo </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-38641932947934153222015-07-11T19:31:00.001-07:002015-07-21T12:58:55.322-07:00Finishing Our Garage: Episode 2 (the walls) <div style="text-align: left;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RMz2940Y6v8eqcFSPYfI024QraFD_332af_7ogKbMuQj1gbXmhV5CD57f4SobuO4fVjNRal1sNIx7aOpv6XfuKL6KOYFc7_XBtWdfmD8FegPeLOypxG6c1gQRDkkEHjkQUa463aZbE5D/s1600/IMG_9746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RMz2940Y6v8eqcFSPYfI024QraFD_332af_7ogKbMuQj1gbXmhV5CD57f4SobuO4fVjNRal1sNIx7aOpv6XfuKL6KOYFc7_XBtWdfmD8FegPeLOypxG6c1gQRDkkEHjkQUa463aZbE5D/s320/IMG_9746.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our garage before</i></b></td></tr>
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In this episode of <b><i>Finishing Our Garage</i></b>...let's talk walls! </div>
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Here is a picture of what we started with. As you can see it was a...well...a garage. There was nothing wrong with it, we just wanted to have a little fun with the space!</div>
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To start, we had to decide if we wanted to DIY the mudding (application of joint compound) or find someone who would tackle that for us. This can be a very messy process, but can totally be a DIY. Ultimately, our decision was to find a handy man who could do this with his eyes closed, as opposed to us taking all weekend just to figure it out. If you decided to DIY, make sure you have adequate ventilation and something to capture all the dust, because there will be lots of sanding in this project. </div>
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We found our guys (it was a team of four) and they began work early in the morning and finished early evening. </div>
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Without being too boring, our process was as follows:</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Application of joint compound (not the premixed, although it can be used for this task)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Sanding </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Painting the walls</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Painting the ceiling</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Clean-up</li>
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They applied 2-3 coats of the joint compound, allowing it to dry then sanding between every coat. The main thing is to make sure the walls appear uniform. There is an additional step called skim coating (which we did not do). Applying the skim coat will ensure that your wall surface is very smooth and ultra uniform. You remember in my first <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/07/finishing-our-garage-episode-1.html" target="_blank">post</a> where I mentioned turning my eye to some things? Yep, this is one. This was one step we thought we could skip because we would be covering the walls with some sort of storage solution. So...who would see our oh-so-perfect walls? No one...not even us! I have a picture below that will show you the imperfections. I should also note that adding the skim coat would have been an additional charge, but not sure how much so be sure to ask for full pricing if you are hiring a crew. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYExI93mkqqSBROiVQirA-wElk9yacTDrq_7ZU4zEYxHhQS93AjKxlDIKU56Iai7w8k7Nb04WpbMGQwe3-2pR5mONZK7v-2zsnhNrSVJYd8rr2YJMsGN9eVip02QCtr68_EFDMMT0A8Gdx/s1600/paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYExI93mkqqSBROiVQirA-wElk9yacTDrq_7ZU4zEYxHhQS93AjKxlDIKU56Iai7w8k7Nb04WpbMGQwe3-2pR5mONZK7v-2zsnhNrSVJYd8rr2YJMsGN9eVip02QCtr68_EFDMMT0A8Gdx/s320/paint.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Paint selections</i></b></td></tr>
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We went to Dunkin' Donuts (which has become a norm for our contractors) to grab them some donuts and coffee and they got started right after their first round. We let them work and checked on them periodically. Our paint for the walls and ceiling all came from Home Depot, and was purchased a few days before. The ceiling paint is <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/BEHR-Premium-Plus-1-gal-Flat-Interior-Ceiling-Paint-55801/100206081" target="_blank">Behr Premium Plus Interior Ceiling Flat in the color Ultra Pure White</a>, and the walls are <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/BEHR-Premium-Plus-Ultra-1-Gal-UL250-1-Arabian-Veil-Interior-Satin-Enamel-Paint-775301/202877592" target="_blank">Behr Ultra, satin finish, in the color Arabian Veil</a>.<br />
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It was an all day job, and to complete the process, we just had to let it dry. We left the garage up for a few extra hours to allow this to happen and the finished product was just what we wanted! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ_WwKdC4RRUPin88ip7hjnoTJQwW21uVpIHRVTTPybJs6K0f6sPP_T5Nv13OsNloOBICi89Gm1hJXbzd6fGMTM8kS_Xv4b7eTJ7lLYWb1E8ZMuLcQm-X1sUk9sBZ9EzWjvPvZoCsq9ARz/s1600/IMG_3088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ_WwKdC4RRUPin88ip7hjnoTJQwW21uVpIHRVTTPybJs6K0f6sPP_T5Nv13OsNloOBICi89Gm1hJXbzd6fGMTM8kS_Xv4b7eTJ7lLYWb1E8ZMuLcQm-X1sUk9sBZ9EzWjvPvZoCsq9ARz/s400/IMG_3088.JPG" width="326" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Imperfection on walls</i></b></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">As you can see (and you may have to tilt your head a little depending on your view) there is a square-ish structure showing through the painted walls. We have a few of these throughout the garage. If you apply the skim coat, these will magically disappear because you will have more compound on the walls, making them smoother once sanded. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Overall, we loved how it turned out and we were happy we decided to let the pros do it. They are always so appreciative and we appreciate them as well! </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><u>Next up</u>, we added a pop of color to the garage door! I am really proud of it because I actually did it! #BabySteps </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RTVD_jnj-VJP9ACZvfAfCIYJvSeoP2DHJ2eMJ4xwKA8ihP-ovfIj1HbOn6fPWZFZxL-yEyw5XgHueJg6svRBSOnjzHOzKWmNluC2uiairBd4KjB1qdFwOXKtBc9Qy2C6I4OBdXgl7gND/s1600/2015-05-31+16.46.57+HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RTVD_jnj-VJP9ACZvfAfCIYJvSeoP2DHJ2eMJ4xwKA8ihP-ovfIj1HbOn6fPWZFZxL-yEyw5XgHueJg6svRBSOnjzHOzKWmNluC2uiairBd4KjB1qdFwOXKtBc9Qy2C6I4OBdXgl7gND/s640/2015-05-31+16.46.57+HDR.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our garage after</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_NRwP7bUC5CLq2wRyrF8jvLB8U1Qu0C0j3xOESBMzaasJBbrLK9Efh-b5HJPHo2XWPJ1_Ys38-IfCXM8YCPJw2EdBZCX2muFLa9T7Nd1Ci5iDNB_JoaIMjc26YQfBC1_u9IuGe1dHuur/s1600/done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_NRwP7bUC5CLq2wRyrF8jvLB8U1Qu0C0j3xOESBMzaasJBbrLK9Efh-b5HJPHo2XWPJ1_Ys38-IfCXM8YCPJw2EdBZCX2muFLa9T7Nd1Ci5iDNB_JoaIMjc26YQfBC1_u9IuGe1dHuur/s640/done.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Before and After</i></b></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">xoxo</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-81858298771446111952015-07-10T08:27:00.004-07:002015-07-10T08:27:59.975-07:00Finishing Our Garage: Episode 1<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYL9ZNqBhEt9APZcKGjPLATUYAQKhZYqIVZcXV5OLHMmwBg4pFfKJfo3sL3botYNrGddTa5zwsz7-bRS0PmQC5xmiD6Z8ZO0ZzfdWTrefXeDiD4lLBMKMBa44cHjYjdz-glcGHjA0DNWn/s1600/IMG_0294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYL9ZNqBhEt9APZcKGjPLATUYAQKhZYqIVZcXV5OLHMmwBg4pFfKJfo3sL3botYNrGddTa5zwsz7-bRS0PmQC5xmiD6Z8ZO0ZzfdWTrefXeDiD4lLBMKMBa44cHjYjdz-glcGHjA0DNWn/s320/IMG_0294.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2014/12/were-new-homeowners.html" target="_blank">Garage picture before</a></b></i></td></tr>
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I am sure this post will turn into its own little series, because there are so many steps we have to take before it is fully complete. </div>
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Let me welcome you to the garage: a place that will be mostly used to house a car or two...but someone <i><b>(quietly raising my hand)</b></i> wanted this space to be an extension of the home. The best way we thought to make this happen is by adding some life to it with a little color and some cool finishes. Don't get me wrong...it's still a garage and as much as I am a perfectionist, I will turn my eye to some things. Basically, our garage will be perfectly imperfect! Over the next few weeks (maybe even months), we will be adding a little here and there until we are all done!</div>
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<u>Here is a current list of "things to do":</u></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Finishing the walls</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Finishing the floors</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Painting the garage walls</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Adding a pop of color (red)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Changing the standard lights to recessed lights</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Changing the light switch</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Adding a nightlight to the light switch </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Installing some shelving/storage system</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Adding a garage slop sink</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Adding durable floor molding </li>
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Our neighbors are so awesome! They always seem to come by in the midst of us working. It gives us a moment to not only meet new neighbors (even though we're all sweaty), but to also share details about our garage. We love sharing info with people so it's a win for all! Hopefully, they can learn from our mishaps and save the time and effort. Be sure to check back periodically for all things garage! </div>
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<b>Question for you all:</b> how do you feel about that ugly foam insulation in the garage between the drywall and concrete? Does this bother you as much as it bothers me? It's not the end of the world, but it's just so unappealing, yet necessary! Operation cover-that-stuff-up starting soon! LOL </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivOdrHjkouVpQhcwen8Ei04XOnaBcUovy6D5qlq9CZZXYKmJahDUE3RY1IdthC3s89tDuHx9qiJbKOJyCKuIpnzURjy6bJTCt-mBPFRUCEpMPt1fKvY-LS-pNCSqz2RLwHw7EAeZTSLbG/s1600/IMG_3079p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivOdrHjkouVpQhcwen8Ei04XOnaBcUovy6D5qlq9CZZXYKmJahDUE3RY1IdthC3s89tDuHx9qiJbKOJyCKuIpnzURjy6bJTCt-mBPFRUCEpMPt1fKvY-LS-pNCSqz2RLwHw7EAeZTSLbG/s400/IMG_3079p.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Garage foam insulation</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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xoxo</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-41962231316421733712015-07-01T12:36:00.001-07:002015-07-01T12:36:15.016-07:00Hey July, Nice To See You Again!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkl8b7ltLwHbjSdXNuu091YMSQ0QTBvTi3sAHj1u__68keDYmJl8j7Zjdbrm4KF_P_fQRMugZRvqM79aEc3VBQGLwenLwdLdO0OorgxHK_PvL9cSzE0KE-deVEnFmuPHFSXv2ovZXogib/s1600/tumblr_m6glkt1fIQ1ryknq0o1_500.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkl8b7ltLwHbjSdXNuu091YMSQ0QTBvTi3sAHj1u__68keDYmJl8j7Zjdbrm4KF_P_fQRMugZRvqM79aEc3VBQGLwenLwdLdO0OorgxHK_PvL9cSzE0KE-deVEnFmuPHFSXv2ovZXogib/s200/tumblr_m6glkt1fIQ1ryknq0o1_500.gif" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fabpicscollection.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/tumblr_m6glkt1fIQ1ryknq0o1_500.gif" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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July is finally here and I am super excited...why? Because it's my birthday month and I love to celebrate all month long (even though my day is not until the very end of the month)! HAHAHA You know when you wake up to tons of birthday freebies and discounts from restaurants and stores, it's going to be a great month! To make it count, I will put my savings into house projects!!! </div>
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Seriously, I have to tell you all that we are planning (notice the word 'planning') to complete a few projects this month. I want to make this month really count so I hope to complete all of these. </div>
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Here is a list of planned projects (taken from my master to-do list that is just ridiculously too long to share):</div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Finish the garage (walls and lighting are done, but we have to do the flooring, do some patching and minor painting, and finish the storage solution)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Add recessed lighting in the master bedroom</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Add ceiling fan and sconces to master bedroom</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Add accent wall to 3rd bedroom</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Change out the builder provided chandelier in the dining room</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Change out the builder provided pendant lighting over the kitchen island</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Buy more furniture (this will be monthly until we get the place fully furnished) </li>
</ul>
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Now...there are several projects on hold because my lovely husband is taking a wood working class this month, and has convinced me that he will be able to complete the projects requiring wood work. One of these projects is the laundry room. We requested no builder-grade wire shelving be placed in the laundry room. This means I keep buying stuff, like decor and storage bins, and stacking it up because I do not have shelving in there yet. I will make sure to keep you posted on that. It should be interesting... :-)</div>
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How are you all doing? Any projects planned or completed? What about all the people getting ready to settle...are you super excited? </div>
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If there are any other July birthdays out there, HAPPIEST birthday to you! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-8233998800384414752015-06-23T17:01:00.001-07:002015-06-23T17:04:16.169-07:00Frameless Shower Anyone? <div style="text-align: justify;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-NOxbla33mgBh_9RW685umK-fYxHBOy7XGyw0sXEo6KhWGkyqykr9KZyeuzX3ilKsHx7FX73qK8gNf8WL5GmjeSotKYKwu3UCDqSpFyKf-VGEO3PCIJOt7dNimC62wZCfd05DxABOHkc/s1600/IMG_2824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-NOxbla33mgBh_9RW685umK-fYxHBOy7XGyw0sXEo6KhWGkyqykr9KZyeuzX3ilKsHx7FX73qK8gNf8WL5GmjeSotKYKwu3UCDqSpFyKf-VGEO3PCIJOt7dNimC62wZCfd05DxABOHkc/s320/IMG_2824.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our frameless shower</td></tr>
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I wanted take a few minutes tonight to talk frameless showers (since we recently experienced an issue that is apparently common with these showers)! </div>
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Not to take anything away from our shower, we absolutely love it. But let's be honest, everything can't always be peaches and cream right? Our frameless shower is located in our master suite. We have a little rug that we place on the floor when using the shower, and for weeks, I thought we just didn't know how to take a shower without getting water all over the floor. One day, I stood and witnessed the water coming from the shower and that's when it hit me! Our shower was not functioning properly and would require a service call. </div>
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I called NVHomes, who are always quick to respond to service calls, to have the guys come out. Upon inspection, they noticed that it was not shower door (which was my thought) but instead it was the grout located on the lip of the shower. For the sake of this post, I will try to explain as simplistic as possible. The next time you look at your grout lines, you will notice that there is a "dip" or "curve". This is normal...however, when it comes to water, it will follow the "dip" or "curve". To keep water from escaping the shower lip, the NVHomes service guys said the grout should not have the "dip" or "curve", but instead it should be even (flat)</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrHoXdvvoG8GfDafmFgwLt_BhzOOGGT2CG0rxuNA0zYihrOpPaLYWyL0iohFkZa8_8btJtG5ZUIv_qvZqQ7_0EnLo73duTwgXecjtbf8qL9i6uyBOKZTGCQXsies5C5w4FUNvYXEuAP1S/s1600/shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrHoXdvvoG8GfDafmFgwLt_BhzOOGGT2CG0rxuNA0zYihrOpPaLYWyL0iohFkZa8_8btJtG5ZUIv_qvZqQ7_0EnLo73duTwgXecjtbf8qL9i6uyBOKZTGCQXsies5C5w4FUNvYXEuAP1S/s320/shower.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top: "curved" grout<br />
Bottom: "flat" caulk (temp. fix)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
across the lines. They were able to do a temporary fix by adding some caulk, but the shower guys will need to come out to re-grout. <br />
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According the the service guys, this is a common issue with the frameless showers. I believe going forward, they may adjust how they install them to keep this from happening to future buyers. If you are experiencing this issue, just give the service team a call (Ryan or NVHomes) and they will know what to do. It's not the worst, but if you can catch it while you're still in the one-year time-frame, that would be best! Other than this issue, early on there was a</div>
n issue with the water pressure in the shower jets. The service team came out and cleaned the small filters behind the shower and it has been perfect since then! <br />
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The main thing is not to be afraid to call the service team to fix <i>anything</i> you think is wrong. Now is the time. You don't want to wait until your one-year is up because you may risk covering the costs yourself. There will be things that "break" or malfunction in this time-frame and they are aware so use them. They are there as a service to your investment! Make it count!!!</div>
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xoxo</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-84281913540506618062015-06-23T06:59:00.001-07:002015-06-23T09:20:58.659-07:00Lighting Update (Savant System) + PicsHey there! <br />
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I spoke about our lighting in <a href="http://buildingournvhome.blogspot.com/2015/04/and-then-there-was-light.html" target="_blank">this</a> previous post, and as I mentioned, there were still some things to be installed. All of the light switches on the wall have been installed and everything is looking great! </div>
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Now as far as the technology goes...well let's chat. You know that we have the <a href="https://www.savant.com/" target="_blank">Savant System</a>, which we use to control audio, gaming, entertainment, and lighting, and also requires a technician to come out to our home and program each room initially. When he comes out (which has been about 2-3 times), he is typically there all day. On his last visit, he was able to fix some things and program most lighting. Some of the fixes included things like changing the "On Demand" button to say "TiVo" since that is what we use. We are still not 100% complete because the wrong part was ordered for our stairway lighting. They are scheduled to come back in July to fully complete the programming and we should be good to go. </div>
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What I hate about the lighting features is it allows us to be lazy! Seriously...if you want to dim the lights...just slide a button. If you want to cut a light on/off...just slide a button. LOL I guess it will come in hand when you're too sick to move or perhaps having one of those lazy Sunday's! If you are in an Andrew Carnegie, running up and down the stairs is a real workout. You learn quickly to get what you need from the lower level <i>before</i> going up to bed. And for us, we tend to forget to turn off a light a two. <b><u>This</u></b> is when the <a href="https://www.savant.com/" target="_blank">Savant System</a> is handy! </div>
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I do love the fact that you can set schedules for your lights to come on/off at specified times. If we are late coming home, Diesel will not have to be in the dark all those hours, instead, the lights will come on at our normal time of arrival. Or perhaps when you are traveling and you don't want your home to be dark everyday you're not home, just set your vacation schedule. You can also create scenes for various activities. For instance, if you are watching a blu-ray in living room (2nd floor), the rest of the lights on the floor will automatically adjust. You could set scenes for daytime movie watching and/or nighttime movie watching. There are many many options. </div>
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Once the stairs are complete, which is the addition of path lights, this will allow the lights to come on when the presence of someone is detected. This is really great for when our moms and grandmother come to visit. I would hate for someone to fall down all those stairs. Trust me, my husband and I BOTH have become acquainted with the process of falling down the stairs and laughing about it. Although we laughed at ourselves, we would hate for someone to get injured. The path lights were always in our plan of "nice-to-haves", but after falling a few times, it quickly became a "must-haves". </div>
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Here are a few screen shots (iPhone app) of the <a href="https://www.savant.com/" target="_blank">Savant System</a> set up for our house. Once this project is 100% complete, I will provide more pictures on an updated post. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fktMVMhTeUA9ZIObLrTFjlAYHWk3BT5I-aR9SeroMB4Ce87Z0z7mGdw_TNxVkEUVpivMQ0FrrXdWG9jmv1rCcKDjRKWQKtx6VeYllf22cnTaDHZctpWaAJDQEeHHbZajEUi1etX4M3oB/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fktMVMhTeUA9ZIObLrTFjlAYHWk3BT5I-aR9SeroMB4Ce87Z0z7mGdw_TNxVkEUVpivMQ0FrrXdWG9jmv1rCcKDjRKWQKtx6VeYllf22cnTaDHZctpWaAJDQEeHHbZajEUi1etX4M3oB/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Screen shot: <a href="https://www.savant.com/" target="_blank">Savant System</a> for Theater/Man Cave</i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAXBj3nFdmvRV2KhBngKqEJVFdZKwouL1GzmzAo2POc8zOJ5JkLbxJYF8QJMQOgP6R9zqwnBh5EJ9z28RHPWQFIwQOMEOMAJLV3-MB_egNrJwafoktlOgZhwOixPNSdViznCRQLlnb9tT/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAXBj3nFdmvRV2KhBngKqEJVFdZKwouL1GzmzAo2POc8zOJ5JkLbxJYF8QJMQOgP6R9zqwnBh5EJ9z28RHPWQFIwQOMEOMAJLV3-MB_egNrJwafoktlOgZhwOixPNSdViznCRQLlnb9tT/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Screen shot: <a href="https://www.savant.com/" target="_blank">Savant System</a> for Master Bedroom but controlling kitchen lighting </i></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD87Fo-wro2oagvAeFUgVY_IbRmkpoAC4VM2-Xnu2fneC26Accnun67kZ1AUrk2VVHcMuTkWTw47lAvjC853-D6V05LltFim_o-ngJW1JhnH0W-QkpWULa-tjiwAP6r3UT6gM7jdcnF5yV/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD87Fo-wro2oagvAeFUgVY_IbRmkpoAC4VM2-Xnu2fneC26Accnun67kZ1AUrk2VVHcMuTkWTw47lAvjC853-D6V05LltFim_o-ngJW1JhnH0W-QkpWULa-tjiwAP6r3UT6gM7jdcnF5yV/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="374" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Screen shot: <a href="https://www.savant.com/" target="_blank">Savant System</a> for Living Room but controlling kitchen lighting</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If you are interested in more home automation, I would suggest you go out and play with different systems to determine which one fits your needs. <a href="http://www.control4.com/" target="_blank">Control4</a> is another popular system that can give you automation controls. It's free to play and learn about what's out there on the market. Take advantage of hands-on demos before putting your time and money into a system. </div>
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xoxo</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5939364109134167912.post-85544301209962427552015-06-20T04:13:00.001-07:002015-06-20T04:13:42.702-07:00Window TreatmentHappy Saturday!!! <br />
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Questions have come in about our decision on window treatment, so I thought I would share details!</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDBGf6Ke3o_hThYcmMwlTY04oEmQFY8BhuLYLAPRZD-_qwbg0cypPxgpI44Q7XXqskUj5fP6wqEPuQFxO-kQR4NmXgyslO-QELVxorCMxdS2hx7fSKVnr-n7kqSz_V_9PySXJGK0Nx_tM/s1600/WT+Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDBGf6Ke3o_hThYcmMwlTY04oEmQFY8BhuLYLAPRZD-_qwbg0cypPxgpI44Q7XXqskUj5fP6wqEPuQFxO-kQR4NmXgyslO-QELVxorCMxdS2hx7fSKVnr-n7kqSz_V_9PySXJGK0Nx_tM/s320/WT+Blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our blind selection</td></tr>
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Before we moved in, we knew we had tons of windows to cover. Our broker emphasized how important it was to have a plan for window treatment <i><b>before</b></i> moving in. And boy was he right! We looked at various stores including Home Depot and Lowes, but we had no luck. The look of wood blinds was our preference, but the up-keep was not so friendly. Since we have a window in the master suite bath, we knew having wood blinds around moisture was not the best idea. To counter this, we opted for faux wood instead. It gave us the look we wanted, but for a fraction of the price. The best thing was we would not have to worry about moisture damage in the bathroom. My husband and I found a blind center and took a Saturday trip to see what they offered as well as pricing. There were so many color options and textures for the blind selections. It was exhausting! If you have been through your selection process, you know what I mean right...just when you think you are done you have one more choice to make!!! The thought of making more decisions was daunting. The store allowed us to take the samples home with us so we could match up our color and texture preference. We ultimately decided on a faux wood, cordless, white-ish blind with a subtle texture. There are ~20 windows and doors to cover in our home so although it was a cost friendly going with faux wood blinds, it added up very quickly. Also, it is good to note that you should be prepared for time delays if they have to manufacture your blinds. There was a 3-week wait period from start to finish with our blinds, then we had to schedule the install around our work schedules, which pushed it about one more week. Plan ahead for this! I will be honest and tell you crawling on the floor after a shower is NOT cool! HAHAHA</div>
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I would suggest you have a plan for what exactly you are looking for in terms of type of blinds or window treatment. Find out the turn-around-time from start to finish and book installs early. Do you want cords, cordless, or automatic? Do you want to add color, or do you want to coordinate with your trim (which is what we did)? Also ask if you can take the samples with you. These are a huge help when deciding on color or textures. Don't feel like you have to do blinds...there are so many options out there! And remember...this is still part of your building process so HAVE FUN and enjoy the moment! After all, once you have paid once for window treatment, it may be a long while before you replace them all!!!</div>
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xoxo</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02969620483429569794noreply@blogger.com4