The New (Old) House

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2007-04-04T01:18:00.000-05:00

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Just Checking Zee System

2007-04-04T01:15:00.000-05:00

Have I found the magic mantra to return to 'home' after being locked out for so long? Let's see shall we.

Post Holiday Clean-Up

2007-01-11T19:56:00.000-05:00

Yes, those are my 2 dogs at the window. Sorry the quality is poor.
News is the same: getting colder, we had a tornado touch down in the local elementary school parking lot 2 minutes before kids released for afternoon dismissal (never seen anything like it except on 'Weapons Demonstrations" at Military Bases, now hauling stuff back up into the attic (ha), and all is well enough. Happiest of new years....Jane in SC

Good times ahead, I just feel it.

2006-12-30T22:48:00.000-05:00

Just got back from a great holiday trip to visit my bro and his family. The men (my dad, brother, my son, my nephew) went to the Meinike (sp) Bowl this afternoon - and saw CuU get whooped on TV yesterday. Such moaners. And brother's wife and I shopped, lazed around this morning in pj's and sipping latte, and enjoying the down time. My brother made this CD Cover of a bunch of his favorite bango Christmas music - very uniqiue - and I loved the pic of their cat (named "Whiskey") in the starring role.

Tunes include:
Mike Auldridge - Greensleeves
Dill Keith - Old Lang Syne
Johnston Mountain Boys - The Friendly Beasts
David Grismon _ Winter Wonderland
Charles Wood- Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,
Frosty the Snowman, O'Holy Night, Carol of the
Bells, Silent Night,The First Noel

and a host of many other great talents.

Survived the Thanksgiving and Christmas rush and chaos with a TON of help from friends. All turned out lovely. Stress-less, more time to dwell on the goodness of friends and neighbors and blessings. Did I mention the roof is new over the back sunroom now? And my energy is kicking up, and perhaps the antibiotics cured (or intimidated) the perhaps pneumonia, etc. Still have all sorts of oncology tests and MD visits this month, and going to a Convent in south Georgia for a retreat in the middle of the month (also got the 3 rolls of Buddhist Prayer Flags from ebay at the same time I was signing up for the retreat of St. Helena Convent. It all comes together. If strength and desire continue to blossom, I imagine spending time SOON painting and sprucing up the place, hauling clothes to hospice thrist store after pals have rummaged through to get what they want for their various children. Got a new / old chair to recover, and am going to haul the other old chair I TRIED to recover to upholstry place to see if they can salvage my 'no pattern' mess. And if so, will cover the new / old chair professionally too (shabby chic - heavy white denim for good washing) but let the professionals attend to the details. Learning to pick my battles - and not sweat the lack of sewing stills anymore. I tried, anyway. But the painting seems doable if my strength maintains - found a yellow called "Sisel" and will do a little test strip before I take on the whole room and then find I am not satisfied with it once it's all painted. Next up is a serious "to do list' and then learning how to use my blog more effectively. Here's cheers to an extrodinary year for all us house bloggers. I believe we all possess an extra spark for asking NOT what our houses can do for us, but what we can do for our houses (paraphrase Kennedy). Plus it takes a remarkable amount of dreaming, hard work, a testament to hope and the goodwill for the future to remake a house into a real home. Peace to all and happy days ahead, from Jane

December Already!

2006-12-17T00:08:00.000-05:00

Well, the roofers put a new roof on the back sunroom. Said the pitch was all wrong (thanks PO) and that adding gutters would not solve the problem (leaks). So they put a new room over the tin roof, changed the pitch, and we've not had a leak since. Wish I'd taken pictures, but did not want to risk climbing the ladder. We are still waiting on the beadboard to repair in ceiling in the living room. Christmas decorating is very slow, and I'm opting for 'less is more' this year. I am hosting Christmas Dinner for family and friends, so this is my major stressor right now. We don't have enough chairs (even hauling in piano stool, vanity stool, computer chairs, etc.). But we shall get through it. My aim is to have the house clean, the food plentiful, and a bunch of twinkling lights to alter the atmosphere. A few candles, gifts wrapped pretty in toile and satin ribbons, and HOPE for the best. Got most of my Christmas Shopping done early, though won't know till the wrapping is complete on who I left out - and then a fast shopping trip to round out the festivities.

The basic deal is the ongoing fatigue from radiation and chemo. I see my oncologist monday, and it was a year ago I was diagnosed with Lung Cancer, so the memories of last Christmas are bittersweet. I have NOT been able to do much around the house yet - and in my head I see all the possibilities and needs yet to be done. But I think we've come a long way considering. We are all sort of holding our breath that the oncologist has good news, for I underwent all the pre-appointments tests last week.

I'm aiming to go to Denver for a Meningioma conference (got involved with them when I had the 2 brain tumors) and then a friend invited me to a weekend conference at a Convent called "Illuminating Darkness, Befriending your Shadow" Ironically I just found out today I won the bid on ebay for 3 sets of 25 Buddhist Prayer Flags - so I am rather all over the place in my current priorities. It seems one's goals are often times take many, unexpected turns. But the house is ready for winter - though not decorated or painted as I'd have hoped at this point. Am grateful enough for all the blessings thus far, and as energy increases I like to think I'll be more invested in tackling the BIG goals in the near future. From Jane

Doorbells, Chimes, etc.

2006-11-11T15:59:00.000-05:00

I was reading a blog - and saw the beautiful new
doorbell she bought. I've had the angel bell up
since we moved in - but alas people seem to
want to push the doorbell to the left of it. The
worst part of it is it plays "Old Kentucky Home"
and not just one verse. It goes on for about 1
and 1/2 long minutes. This is from previous
owner, and I do not like it at all

And I hung the chimes under my carport and they make a nice welcome if there is a slight breeze when I get home. By the way, the fence is my neighbors - they erected these privacy
fences on both sides of their property. I had hung
my Buddhist Prayer Flags where my chimes now
hang. And lastly, but not least, the ROOFER is
coming wednesday to PUT IT ON. We'll see!

The Painted Screen Photo

2006-11-08T14:17:00.000-05:00

Here's a fast picture of the screen I bought. Really kind of weird now that I have it home.

The roof, the dogs - enough for today

2006-11-02T17:58:00.000-05:00

OK - Had a 'gutter guy' come check about the gutter. It's not the gutter, it's the pitch of the roof (we knew this - from the inspection report when we bought the house - but (duh) it had slipped our minds with all the other stuff going on. So a 'roofing guy' is coming tomorrow to give a "look-see" about a new roof for the back side of the house. Sad news, woefully sad. I am giving 2 of my dogs away. The 2 little ones keep digging out from under the fence - NO MATTER WHAT WE DO TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. Found a "no kill" shelter ("ARF" they can by found by googling "ARF" and your state). I had to beg, plead (there is a waiting list as their kennel space is limited) but they will take 1 tomorrow. The other will be on a waiting list. I have put this decision off for so long, but I cannot deal with them escaping daily and fearing they will get hurt or hurt someone (they don't bite, but do bark, and scare people). I am really upset about this - I feel like I'm giving part of my heart away. We'll still have 1 big dog - but....the 2 small ones must find new homes - and I am thankful to have found "ARF."

Also spent time at tax / deed accessors office today. There is a chance to get lower rate for taxes and have appointment with attorney tomorrow. In the throwing money hither and yon news - I found a painted screen (4 panel screen) at new 'Shabby and Chic" consignment shop that just opened - and am picking it up tomorrow or saturday. I will show picture of this when it's 'home' as I thought it was kinda cool. I feel so guilty about the dogs - they are both inside tonight, and fed them the leftover chicken as a guilt-induced treat (boiled the meat off the bones). I do not like this part of playing the adult and making so called "rational" decisions.

The "no show" of contract workers lament.

2006-10-30T19:17:00.000-05:00

The old gutter men have obviously left the country - and I have left messages to gutter companies hither and yon - to no avail (not a single call from any machines I sputtered my pleas regarding needing a d&*m 20 foot gutter installed). At least there is no forecast for rain the next few days. Actually it was a beautiful day today - but I was inside Home Depot getting hay and cedar chips for the dogs - and not out enough to actually enjoy this nice autumn day. I am boycotting Lowe's because last time I was there I waited over 20 minutes for someone to unlock the hay truck and toss one bale into the trunk of my car - and I ended up leaving and coming back hours later to get the bale (the boy/man just said "I was at lunch"). Hmmph. So I am hitting Home Depot for paint samples now - esp. since I have a new ladder and can reach (almost) to the upper railing.

And I found my old (unused) stencils and can easily do a little design around the lower edge of bathroom (right above the beadboard). This is a quick fix, since I likely can't reach the ceiling to paint the whole little room right now. This will at least keep me occupied - and will make me imagine I am DOING SOMETHING rather than morosely sauntering about wringing my hands. Actually I have been doing some watercolor/pen and ink sketches and sending them to friends as little surprises. Practice makes improvements - of techniques I had forgotten, etc.

I did get the dog pen ready for colder weather - a truck tent - though had to take 1/2 of legs off to lower it. Still have to install side flaps. But it's big and better than what was there. And I admit I am becoming more proficient in the art of leaf blowing. Still manage to send a cloud of leaves and dust and dirt into my face on occasion, but oh well - decided it was not a big deal - and sort of a rush of childhood when you toss the colored leaves in the air and watch with glee as they pour over your head (minus the dirt part). Just an update - mood=semi-grouchy, otherwise am at least "up and at 'em).

It's Raining, it's pouring, the roof is leaking - ruining flooring....

2006-10-27T20:21:00.000-05:00

Yep, those gnarly contractors have NOT showed their faces, nor returned any calls - so the gutter they pulled off is now allowing water to spill directly into the back room unabated - and the holes they drilled in living room (to 'test' depth of beadboard) is a faucet dripping/pouring onto the rug, couch, etc. I am fed up galore. This roofing has been the bane of my existence since we moved in - and the mad dashes, and assurances of 4-5 roofers that they 'fixed' the problem is BS. And I cannot do it. I wouldn't even try - knowing my limits. Who knows what my Christmas ornaments look like now - as we stored them in the attic - thinking it was dry and safe up there.

The front 2 rooms are at least reasonably fit for visitors to sit and visit - at least tidier. I am storing summer clothes into those huge zip lock bags - and trying to find my winter clothes to shuffle into the closets. I asked for a ladder for my birthday - and got a nice one (finally). The leaves are falling - and I am using the leaf blower - feeling like some psychotic doing a spirited leaf dance when I forget where I am aiming the thing. Money is flying out of this house like cob webs as unexpected bills accrue - like the dishwasher no longer dries, needed new printer as the last one just died, and the washing machine dances across the floor during the spin cycle. Oh, we now duct tape the freezer shut - as it won't stay shut otherwise. I am in bliss. Just a quick rant and update.

Taxes, Stamina, and Rednecks

2006-10-06T09:22:00.000-05:00

Since this is the first year in the house - I got the tax bill 2 days ago. I nearly fell out of my chair. It's 5 times what my other house was taxed. We think the issue (besides this being a much more expensive house) is that my dad bought it, and has it listed as a rental (so he can get tax break on repairs - as my disability income leaves me in the red yearly with medical bills still accumulating). He's going to talk to his accountant and the people at tax office if there is anyway to deal with this absurd tax amount - like deeding house to me now (versus in his will), etc. The money we had when we sold the old house was put into checking earmarked for medical bills - that was the money we'd hope to use fixing this house - alas.

The good news is I am continuing to feel better and better, which means I am chomping at the bit to get on with the things I CAN do (I don't want to talk about painting rooms - I want to DO it). I bought a treadmill to help increase stamina, but my son broke the knob off on the speed control and it is stuck at 5.6 mph. A bit faster that I can deal with (unfortunately got it as Play It Again Sports and it's a no guarantee sort of deal).

I'll let you know how the first bit of painting the bedroom goes. I have started writing again - the Vietnam War - and am re-outlining as my viewpoint has shifted since I was last working on it. Plus my son and I read To Kill A Mockingbird and I just finished Harper Lee's (unauthorized) biography - so it occurs to me to change the style a bit. The more I know the less I know - and somehow watching the recent news makes me puzzled still at humanity (or lack thereof).

My 2 thoughts today: cancer is too messy and the people around here (this sounds like a title of a country song) "wear too much makeup and not enough clothes" (this was after going to court and observing the people there awaiting their time to appear before the judge). My assessment, the more mascara and darker the eyeshadow, the less likely the woman has a bra on and has no problem with polyester shorts without underwear (cellulite you know).

Even my oncologist is a home re-do fanatic, this was in the local paper last week

2006-10-05T22:43:00.000-05:00

Stellar cellars -New interest in wine spurs trend toward sophisticated storagePublished: Saturday, September 30, 2006 - 6:00 am

When they built a spacious garden house next to their 20-year-old Georgian-style home three years ago, Larry and Diane Gluck knew the basement of the structure would be the ideal setting to indulge in their passion for wine.

So the couple built a 1,500-bottle wine cellar with a sitting area on the lower level of the new space. Before any work took place, the Glucks researched wine cellars to learn what would best preserve their collection — how thick the walls should be and the appropriate temperature and humidity, for example. The finished product looks like a cellar in a proper French vineyard.

The entrance is a hand-carved door made to look centuries old. The concrete floors were stained and distressed to give them an antique finish. And the brick archway and wrought-iron gate that separate a small room inside the cellar were inspired by a wine cave the couple once visited on a New Zealand island. Before their plans evolved into a garden house and wine cellar, the Glucks were planning to build only a small potting shed. “Over the years our plans grew,” Larry Gluck said. “And so it has turned into a garden structure, which has lots of entertainment space.” Gluck said he started collecting wines more than 10 years ago after taking a wine course at Augusta (Ga.) College and sampling a 40-year-old Bordeaux. “It was unlike anything else I have ever had,” he said. “And it was clear you just don’t go out and buy a 30- or 40-year-old Bordeaux like you run to the grocery store.” His fascination with trying to find out when wines reach their peak grew. And he soon discovered that the only way he was going to be able to truly understand the process was to cellar his own wine. “It’s kind of a game trying to find out when a wine is at its peak,” he said. The Glucks represent a growing trend among wine enthusiasts: More people are collecting wine and investing in stylish places to display their collections. Since 2003, sales of high-end, walk-in home cellars have increased 100 percent, according to a recent study by MKF Research, a wine research and consulting firm based in St. Helena, Calif. Barbara Insel, managing director for MKF, said when people start collecting expensive wines they realize the need for proper storage. Serious collectors might create climate-controlled, walk-in rooms. A casual wine drinker with fewer bottles to store might purchase a separate refrigerator that holds up to 500 bottles or a small cooler that holds 30 or so bottles. About 4 percent of American homes have some type of wine storage system, according to a 2005 market study by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. Small coolers that hold 30 bottles or less are the biggest sellers. The smaller units, which retail for about $100 at home improvement and appliance stores are just as effective at preserving wine as larger cellars, said Richard deBondt, president of Greenville’s North Hampton Wines. The ideal temperature for storing wines is 55 degrees Fahrenheit with humidity levels between 75 or 80 percent. Higher temperatures cause the wine to oxidize, deBondt said. “It’s like cooked fruit,” he said. “It’s not the same as fresh fruit.” Insel said the popularity of coolers and cellars goes along with an upsurge in wine sales, as more choices become available at lower prices and more people entertain with wine. “If you look at the consumer demographic, 25 percent of American families have incomes over $75,000,” Insel said. “And they think of themselves as high-end consumers. They like buying affordable luxury products. A $15 or $20 bottle of wine is an affordable luxury. It’s something that adds a nice experience to your dinner without breaking the bank.” If you’re a collector who has more bottles than a small cooler will hold but not enough to justify a walk-in cellar, a larger refrigerated unit might be an option. Prices range up to $4,000. Another option for wine enthusiasts is converting an existing space such as a closet or pantry into a storage cellar, said Robert Bass, owner of Kessick Fine Home Products in Greenville. He said “retro fitting” a smaller space into a wine cellar is more cost effective and far easier than an entire basement project. “The key to wine storage is consistency,” Bass said. “It doesn’t matter where you store it. The temperatures can not fluctuate up and down because that is what contributes to wine going bad early.”
The wine cellar in Larry and Diane Gluck's home. Below, a sitting area outside of the wine cellar.

Leaking Ceiling Fixes Coming

2006-09-09T12:07:00.000-05:00

This picture is a bit fuzzy, and does not show the extent of bead-board splintering, but here's a shot of the livingroom ceiling leak. The men came back yesterday and (rah) said they found a place they could order the correct size of beadboard to mend it. They spent hours on roof, tied like they were rappelling from the chimney - and put some sort of gunk on holes. Will have to replace 20 feet of gutter in back, and it'll have to be manufactured (since the PO "invented" his own roofline when he rigged the sunroom. But overall the news is good so far (at least we're not sheetrocking the ceiling as first suggested).

And I am spending hours with a trashbag going through boxes that we moved here with, and throwing tons of old office files away, my old school papers - and have a box for "scrapbook" as if I'll find time to get the "must keeps" organized (why do moms keep all their childrens work - at least I have - yikes). We set up a desk in MY library, for my son to do homework - and he loves it. Says he feels like he's in HIS own private library. So I am moved back to the sunroom with a long card table to do art. Ahhh, parenthood.

Home Maintenance and Duct Tape

2006-09-06T17:11:00.000-05:00

Well, a stint in the hospital and now home again. The beadboard roof in living room is leaking so bad it's splintered about 1/8 of the entire ceiling. Men out today wanted to sheetrock the whole ceiling, but I am hoping to find proper beadboard to mend it. They are to return tomorrow morning with some other options. The tin roof is leaking where the PO nailed roof (you can see the sky shine via nail holes in attic). New roof estimates 10,000 - 12,000...not an option right now. Got home and found evidence of mouse, so caught one of the boogers yesterday (ugh). Also had exterminator out twice for ants and spiders, he says they are so bad now because of all the torrential rains we've had. A large piece of knot fell out of a plank on floor, and I simply stuck a piece of duck tape over it (it felt creepy, like "Snakes on a Plane" - but I envisioned "Snakes in my House").

So much now is simply maintenance - especially with fall and winter approaching. Did get the deck stain completed, lack of hot water due to having turned down water heater when I went into the hospital (duh), and we're working to seal the old windows a bit. Just wanted to do a short update on the house.

After a brief hiatus, back to focus on family and house "to-do's"

2006-08-03T16:49:00.000-05:00

Well, can't rely on health from day to day, and finally went to dad's for a few days to have help with meals and healing - and needing assistance in daily demands of a constantly hungry 15 year old. I stocked up on magazines, so between medical tests (blood tests, PET Scan, CT Scan, Scan - and all tests look) I again started a prioritized list of house / home projects again. The back deck is 1/3 complete, with final staining easily done in a few hours (working around the heat and rain). Found a house cleaning crew to come in tomorrow and give the house some shine and polish. The exterminator to return and kill the bugs again (don't know why they return or how they enter - just an old house with too many gaps I suppose). I don't do well with bugs though.

Still must focus on what I can accomplish without full throttle energy, which includes container gardening, painting, sewing slipcovers, detailing window treatments, etc. I am TRYING to like the color green. We put those green tiles in the kitchen (looks like you're walking on the Mediterranean Ocean) and I am trying to be OK and even be fond of the color (they were on sale, remember). It's taking a total shift to deal with this color (maybe since I got the BA in art and color alters every one of my senses, or maybe the MA in Counseling makes me recall too much about color theory/color therapy/art therapy). Back to green. I am thinking (after reading Cottage Style magazine"return to the simple life") and seeing pic of green kitchen floor with deep red cabinets. One pic showed wallpaper with beadboard texture, which may be a solution to covering the cabinets with a painted deep red wallpaper. Now I hear Santa "ho-ho-ho'ing" in the background. But I am thinking this may be 1 option.

The bedroom will be yellow/white. I found a huge, semi-circular wall self that I'm (a friend will do the actual screwing as a safety precaution, as I envision it crashing ontop my head in the middle of the night); attaching sheers to and will hang behind the bed (with some accent, heavier drapes on edges to give the feeling of canopy/bed coronet) without the feeling that one is being smothered or surrounding by mosquito netting a la safari.

Since school is gearing up we are gathering my son's study area together anticipating another breathtaking year of academic excellence. Hmmmm. I will likely spend the weekend picking up the paints and supplies to attend to the wall painting in bed and bath room.

And just a thought that keeps surfacing as I deal with house renovation, restorations, etc. When I bought this house a year ago, I fully expected to live here till I was old, old. That my grandchildren would visit me here, and we'll share the tale of how I hauled the old wood burning oven home from an auction. How the sunroom would have daybeds or couches that they would love to sleep in as they gazed their sleepy little eyes out the huge windows. How the yard would be a fantasy place to explore. Then in Nov./Dec. I was diagnosed with Lung Cancer. No one has an appointment with their time of death - and in some ways I feel I am lucky in that I know I cherish, appreciate, am more aware, more actualizing with each gift of a day, gift on a moment. But it also impacts nearly all my decisions (sometimes I don't even realize it till later). Deciding to do a house renovation to add value upon resale versus it simply tickles my fancy (and do NOT want to be added to "what was she thinking" by the next owners). Paint and curtains don't cost much, and it takes little to maintain the integrity of the house (wood floors, original windows, etc). But I wonder how much I hold back - thinking I should stash that money into Inheritance Fund for son versus ordering handmade lace curtains. And should I be eliminating excess from the house as opposed to adding more furniture, etc. I ended up with most of the family heirlooms - I am the keeper of the family history, furniture too long in this family to donate or auction off to someone who won't appreciate the history of each piece, tales and scrapbooks and a family of book lovers miles of shelves of books on any topic. I can donate or toss the paperbacks - but some of these books are out of print, first editions, our family name crops up in them etc. I know, we never know how much time we have - - but it does add some complexity to seemingly easy, everyday decisions. I am not a materialistic grubber, but do feel a certain sense of caretaking responsibility with these 'things.' I just needed to write that out. It's hard to discuss it with people that love me - it pains then to think about my illness, I can tell. A Will can only do so much, but will it instill a burden or sense of family heritage and pride. And so it continues, however wobbly, in a wee SC town.

Thanks for the nice comments, and an update again...

2006-07-26T00:36:00.000-05:00

First, thanks for the notes Susan and Poppy. I most often think I should end up in the doghouse for posting too much about frou-frou stuff versus the manly nailing, hammering, sawing which I had meant to do when I started this blog. "Twas nice that you took the time to read and send motivational support! Susan, thanks - I like the bed too, and dear dad is my staunch local supporter right now. And Poppy, yep, that's my art work - the pastels I posted way back after I'd had them framed. I plan to do more in similar style of local mountains and lakes.

I continue(d) to feel weaker, etc. and stayed in bed way too much (though the bed is great I must admit). Finally, when I pulled myself to oncology-rehab (3 times a week) I was the ONLY one doing fewer laps, getting lighter weights (from 3 lbs. to 2 lbs. for crying out loud), and once told to go to the cafeteria to EAT something before I was allowed to get on any machine. I mean, 80 year olds are passing me as I strive to pump my arms as I waddle down the lane trying to at least 'look' like I am making headway. Oh well, on the way home I did manage to get some paint chips from Lowe's - and they felt like tarot cards more than reflections of a decision I needed to make.

I lay them out on the table and read their names - as if the name would conjure up what color belongs in here. Soft ivory, morning sun, ornate gold, sunbeam, cowslip, first light, solstice, lightning, swan dive, cocoa butter, butter, daisy spell, oyster bisque, Homestead Resort Tea Room Cream, beeswax, social butterfly, morning sunlight, eggnog, provence cream, cornsilk, peaceful calm, summer wish, cuddle, champagne dance, lemon cream, yellow bliss, song of summer, pineapple fizz, clear yellow...for a start. Boggles the mind.

But before I leap upon a ladder and start this affair, I did make appointment late yesterday afternoon to meet with oncologist today, and ended up getting jabbed in the arms 5 times (2 blood workups, 2 missed veins, and then a 2 hour infusion of antibiotics/potassium/fluids. And must now drive 45 minutes back over there in the morning - I must BE there AT 6:45 am for CT Scan then bone scan, then back to oncologist for more labs, lab results, and visit with oncologist. Damn. This illness is certainly interfering with my house restoring plans. I am hopeful whatever they can do will give me a few jolts of energy anyway.

Staring at paint chips and 'forcing fluids' whistling "If I Had A Hammer" in SC.

2006-07-26T00:31:00.000-05:00

The sidewalk and worn, overheated "flowers."

2006-07-26T00:29:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my house via the front walkway.

The bedroom walls

2006-07-16T23:51:00.000-05:00

Here's what I have been putting off. It may be hard to see, but the wallpaper is curling at most edges, and the area from top board to ceiling (plaster) is cracking (or is it just the paint peeling). So once I rise to the occasion, off comes the wallpaper, painting it yellow (warm butter yellow) and up goes wallpaper or stencil at top area to ceiling. I think I can, I think I can.

Dad comes EARLY monday to begin the deck cleaning for staining. My son is so thrilled (not). So on way home from errands I will go to paint stores to check out yellow paint. I am sure I will be in a state of inner confustion, as I need to also get the wallpaper border to match the paint. Of course, this means pushing all my furniture into the middle of the floor now. And borrowing a ladder (mine is old, my grandfather's, and rickety does not begin to describe how secure I feel on the lowest of rungs).

I thinnk I can, I think I can.....

The mattresses arrived - here are pics to prove it!

2006-07-15T22:25:00.000-05:00

The manager of the warehouse brought
the mattresses in his own personal
truck no less. Note the pillowtop (extra
cushy top) and how it beckons one to jump onto the bed.

Now the 2nd pic proves that I am (in
my heart) a hidden starry-eyed 12 year old, or Marilyn Monroe hopeful, or just ga-ga over anything with pearls used for
embellishment. This is the bedspread
that blew my original decorating ideas away.

And finally, here's the bedroom - awaiting the bells and whistles (window
treatments, paint, etc.).

The boss of the Sears warehouse who
delivered the mattresses said he'd received the call yesterday - that this was a VIP delivery. Whoa. I told him the story of dad calling and we both laughed. Told him it was likely father pulled the ACE card and mentioned I was diagnosed and in treatment for cancer. He said that even while I told him of illness I seemed to glow and seemed to know what 'grace' must feel like. We then had a short talk about attitude, belief systems, acceptance and the like (in a totally acceptable, cool way). How many times do you hug a delivery man for delivering a mattress?

Can't wait to try it out tonight - sweet dreams await. Oh, the height of the new mattresses give the old bed the plantation feel - and I may need to find a little stool to climb into bed. How cool is that. The bed set was my grandmother's and she'd be pleased to see it now. Chest of drawers, vanity, dressser, bed - back to southern glory and nice enough to offer to any guest. I'm just so pleased.

Slow and unsteady - still win the race? Hmmmm.

2006-07-14T22:46:00.000-05:00

What's new? Yesterday I was to hear from Sear's yesterday (I'd ordered my mattresses from them - mostly due to 4th of July sale) to confirm delivery time for today. Instead, call yesterday informed me that due to 'clerical error' the mattresses would not even be in town (nearby town) until next wednesday - and they'd call me next wednesday to set time for delivery - like in days and days after wednesday. Caller said "OK?" and I said "Sounds like I don't have much of a choice." Sigh. Then I tossed myself back into bed - not even having the energy to be upset. Then I thought I do have choices - but nary the energy to even find the number to call to cancel the order. So, what did I do? I called my dad. He said "Always go to the top" and that's just what he did. Got the manager of the store - and whoa - the mattresses would be put onto truck - be in town by today - and delivered at LATEST saturday. The manager called me early this morning, confirmed the mattresses were in town and I would get call early tomorrow to set delivery time and I'd get them tomorrow. She also said I have very pursuasive father. I wish I had that skill. Who knows how the conversation went. He can talk with people and get them to do 'the right thing' without anger, without accepting excuses, etc. So I'm hoping for new mattresses by this time tomorrow. He's been at me to get new mattresses since I'd been diagnosed with cancer - and once I'd finally picked them out he seemed relieved and happy. I can just imagine his face when I told him about the delay. He thinks I have the worst luck of anyone he knows anyway. At least the bedroom is ready - as having men haul in the mattresses pushed me to finish painting doors, paint a small bedside table, order new duvet cover, purchase new bedspread, shams, curtains, etc.

Too hot or rain in late afternoons (daily) has delayed the back deck staining. Got to clean and sand it first (that is dad and son job). I bought the new table to do art on - but still have not finished arranging the rest of back room. I AM more organized though (how come things look good till I decide to make it look better - then it looks like crap again for seemingly too long?). Once the bedroom is finished, the backroom reassembled, the sewing complete (and sewing machine off dining room table) the library will get my full attention. It's the one room with fireplace that I can shut off completely - and once winter hits it will be my toasty refuge. This OLD house is hard to keep cool and warm - my bills for heating or air conditioning attest to this fact.

I had to move my little desk out of the hall in preparation for mattresses, but once it's back in place I'll post pics on updated progress. I do start oncology rehabilitation monday - which they assure me will help to regain energy and strength. It includes working out in their gym, yoga, massage, nutrition counseling, and physical therapy. I'm to meet the person in charge in the gym area monday. So, there's the latest from this humble abode.

Sunday Update

2006-07-09T15:27:00.000-05:00

I painted the 2 master bedroom closet doors (2 closets in there) semi gloss white (which matches the rest of the trim I'd painted white long ago). I felt guilty for painting rather than sanding and refinishing - but must bite the bullet and do what I am able versus what I'd want (and therefore not get anything done). Also painted a ladder back chair same white (used at vanity). The furniture is dark, wood floors dark. White is nice contrast. Have not yet summoned the energy to look at masses of yellow paint samples for walls.

And, I bought an old farm table on sale for back room for art work. It is very sturdy, and my pastels are piled on it - calling me to come work on art - now. My son stayed with grandpop last night and I (yikes) hit eBay. I had been so good about not getting on eBay - but I caved in the wee hours of the morning. Bought a white duvet cover and a white roll up window shade (80 plus inches long - couldn't find one that length anywhere around here). These are both for bedroom. Also bought 2 pillow shams (white battenburg). Did I announce I bought new mattresses for the old bed last week? The mattresses were original to the bed - which likely means they are around 70 years old (from my grandmother's estate). New mattresses will be delivered next week.

We are going to stain the back deck tomorrow (we = father and son) "redwood". I will continue to touch up painting jobs, sew, and fiddle around the house. And hopefully find my pastel paper and begin some artwork.

4th of July

2006-07-04T11:21:00.000-05:00

I HAVE been busy, but didn't feel like posting without pics (sorry, still so pics). My camera is full of family reunion pics, neighborhood ideas I like, etc. - and things are NOT organized as well as I'd like.

On the up side, I finished the chemo, plus 2 rounds of radiation. I am to start oncology-rehab ASAP (everything from nutrition to yoga) - which will be a great way to keep on a schedule that gets me out of the house daily for a bit. Housewise - I am being very picky about auctions (did go to the Charlotte, NC fairgrounds this past weekend and was not even tempted - and saw very few ideas which thrilled me). But, 'twas nice to get away (hey bro). My brother (again) wowed me with all his talent as he is (has been) re-doing his house, yard (now that his 4 kids are finished with college or in college, he and his wife are making their dreams a reality with their home).

I have announced I simply cannot hammer, drill, etc. and give up the myth that this will ever be a skill. Thank you dad for finishing the drilling to keep the flagpole from falling out each time the wind blows.

On the list of what is happening now, the sunroom is again in shambles as I am redoing it (again) for my art studio. I have an outlet (selling) for the pastels and this will give me the funds (hopefully) to buy the stuff or talent to do what this lovely house yearns for (add: stuff we need to make it perfect for our needs). The library is about 80% finished - just touching up the built-in bookcases really. The master bedroom and bath await decorating (the old hunt for the perfect color paint - but I found some courage and am bracing myself to see what is beneath the old old wallpaper). The high ceilings still scare me - especially since I must scrape the paint near the ceiling (leaving the beadboard ceiling 'authentic' and therefore not messing with it). The yard and greenhouse and barn did not (and will not) get attention as hoped this summer, BUT I did manage to brighten the front with container gardening. Had to cut way back due to health, but am so thrilled to be gaining energy and motivation to be on track with the house again.

It is so wonderful to feel blessed every time I walk into my house - seeing the McMonsters being built in Charlotte seemed so sad when there are great homes reeking of family and history just waiting for love and attention. The best spa I've ever been to is down the hall - the old clawfoot tub. Then add sitting on the old porch swing in the late evening - bliss.

Gardening, on the light side

2006-05-14T06:36:00.000-05:00

I received a beautiful rose bush from my son, "Julia Child" yellow. I ended up leaving the last yellow rose bush at the old house I sold (hope the new owners know how much care went into that one bush). Here I am focusing on containers, as I can't get into the heavy duty part of the gardens (pollen, allergies) yet, and looks like I have lost my window of opportunity to clear out the overgrowth before spring sprang. I am keeping my plant lists rather dull and basic, lining the front porch and back deck with hot pink geraniums, petunias, ice plants, herbs, impatience, fuschias, ivy, etc. Not sure yet where to put the rose, in a bed already defined on the side of the house, or start a new plot and bring in a few more roses for outdoor enjoyment and cuttings for the house. I must be in a color frenzy (I used to try to maintain some order by limiting self to 3 or so colors in garden scape). I just painted one old metal porch chair from my grandmother "periwinkle" and am going to see how lush the boxes of mixed wildflower seeds appear after I sprinkle them down the 2 areas on either side of the front sidewalk. I have managed to miss 2 very wonderful looking auctions lately, a real accomplishment for me (as I dearly love to find a great item, but know I can't let someone else win if I WANT it, and common sense and price fly out of my head. I do better in thrift stores.

A few pics, just for the heck of it.

2006-05-08T19:44:00.000-05:00

Here's a few snaps of how the pastels look hanging on the walls now. Also a few other snaps just for fun.

The front parlor still has junk piled in the corners, ditto for most others rooms in the abode.
The hallway ended up with my desk and computer. It was a temporary niche and I've yet to move the desk and piano stool (latest thrift shop find I'm using as computer stool) into the proper library. The bathroom (1st snap of old clawfoot tub) needs more work than I imagined. Behind the slapped up fake white beadboard is baby blue tile (not good) and the previous owners just stopped in mid-swipe when painting. So it needs painting, but also things are 80% half-a$$ed undone. He just got bored maybe. Painting will be easy, but I need to get electric-pro and plumber in before I beautify (and see my painted walls being torn down for some unseen jplumbing or wiring problem). The maid starts tomorrow (thanks dad) but I am afraid she's going to feel like she's in a quandry, as I don't see the house as maid friendly. Don't move or touch anything, just mop, dust, etc. What looks like a mess in just a 'work in progress'. We'll see how it goes. The last maid lasted 3 visits then moved. Alas. Awaiting the last day of 9th grade then I don't have to get up to drive my son to school and have my day revolve around picking him up. Plus, he's strong and I look forward to using his muscles for all the heavy work I can't do right now. PS I seem my oncologist wednesday and willl know the results of CT, PET and if treatments were successful. Keep your fingers crossed for me.