Kitchen Overhaul 101

This room has taken the most cash and the most effort, but it has been well worth it! We started with the "basics", like new appliances! Check out the stove and hood that was here when I moved in!

TaDa!

After stripping, staining and protecting the cabinets over one weekend, I ordered new hinges to re-install the fronts. I also took out the overhead nasty old light, filled in the holes, texturized and painted the the "box" where the light had been. Then, in my first lighting experience, I installed track lighting and LOVE the result. I also went on to install dimmers throughout the house, one of which is on the track lights and allows for the perfect amount of light in the kitchen!


In addition, I went shopping for a slab of granite and at Stephen's recommendation, decided to go with granite tile, whih is half the cost and looks nearly identical, if properly installed. The results are amazing!

I also found a a great new cast iron kitchen sink that has a smaller sink on the left and a nice big and deep sink on the right. This allows me to choose which one will work better for various jobs. When Designer Tile installed the granite, I also had the sink installed as an undermount and am so pleased with how "clean" the lines look.

What I am perhaps most excited about are the switch plates. I didn't want to break up the look of the tile with blaring outlets. I went out and found paintable switch plates and with the help of about four different paints and a sea sponge, I was able to copy the granite look and create a contiguous look along the backsplash. In the last picture, you can see one such switch plate if you look very carefully. I ended up creating four for the room and they look amazing - I can say that because I am not naturally artistic when it comes to paints! I have included the before and after for all of you to see!

Master Bath Reno. Basics

I am proud to say that I now know how to cut 45 degree angles. Yes, actually Malcolm at Home Depot cut the angles needed to frame the bathroom mirror while I chatted with and encouraged his efforts. Then, to get a rustic look, I spray painted the wood with a "patchy" look. After screwing "L" braces into the back and trying 4 different kinds of apoxy, I got it to adhere. All the room needed was a great piece of lighting and a paint job. Here's the before and after!

Single and Satisfied Over Married and Miserable

How great is a girls' weekend, with Evelyn's husband. I have to give John credit for being the continual trooper when it comes to his wife wanting to invite all her girlfriends. Juanito and Evelyn are far from married and miserable and actually restore my hope in the institution of marriage!

After Robyn, Evelyn and myself all worked together in the Rio Grande Valley for an obscene television station, we have moved on to bigger and better things, but never have forgotten the friendships that were solidified in the midst of what most would consider hell - the job and the weather. Now, it was time to spend June 25-27 in Vegas enjoying a fabulous new club - Pure - and the sights and sounds special to the town that is about to celebrate its 100 year birthday.

My Best Friend's Wedding

On Friday, May 13th, another person became the most important person in the life of my best friend - Katie Wood. Yes, "DANimal" is a great guy and totally deserving of her affection, but I as I informed him, "You ever hurt her and I'll hurt you." Just a nice and friendly reminder! Stephen also came out and we had a fabulous time!

Best 4th of July Link Ever!

This is absolutely adorable and a great little way to say I love you!
http://i.euniverse.com/funpages/cms_content/4367/yankeedoodlebug.swf