tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171827661184371352024-03-12T21:48:36.613-07:00Our First HomeBuilding a Venice with Ryan HomesThe Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-83274971210121606172013-09-10T18:19:00.004-07:002013-09-10T18:19:57.083-07:00Getting Ready for Fall<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We have one last heat wave that is hitting now and then we should be in the clear for cooler weather-finally!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Last year, with how we ended up celebrating the holidays with family, I ended up decorating way early, both for fall and Christmas. This year, I'm doing my best to hold off, but with all the fun crafting projects on the horizon, I'm getting a little anxious. Maybe sharing what I'm working on here will help satisfy my anxiousness and excitement.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Had to go between Hobby Lobby and Micheal's to get all the pieces I needed, but it worked out. I bought some other letters (J-O-Y) and ribbon to change out for Christmas and plan on getting some additional ribbon in our house colors to use year-round. Overall, the project took about 2.5 hours between dry time with the glue and paint.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, I know it's not even fall yet, but I already know between my work schedule and weekend plans that this is going to take a lot of time to do right. This is a total of 18ft, plus there is another 5-6 ft of garland that I have yet to "fit" to my smaller banister. However, I'm confident that when I'm done, not only will it look stunning, but I'll have a custom piece that blends my house colors and typical Christmas decor (unlike the one I used last year).</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the animals have been intrigued by what the long green thing is on the floor. I'm just waiting for my cat to eat it.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small section done so far--my back started killing me after an hour and this is only about a 2-3 foot section.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> </b> <b>Home-brewing</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Richard and our friend Ron where inspired by my father over the 4th to start exploring the hobby of home-brewing. I'm loving the fact that Richard has a hobby now and gets to have regular "man time". Since the middle of July, the two have brewed up an Oktoberfest lager, Patriot ale, Imperial Nut Brown ale</span>, <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">will start a American Golden ale this weekend or next. Nothing has been ready to taste-test (the INB ale was just bottled last weekend and needs another week to carbonate) :(</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The set up on our unfinished side of the basement. </td></tr>
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The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-33645528785863198552013-07-27T16:16:00.000-07:002013-07-27T16:16:10.094-07:00Spring has arrivedI can't believe that in 2 short days we'll have officially owned our house for a year. It seems like yesterday that we were moving in.<br />
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So in honor of our anniversary, and to share what's been happening since the last time I blogged, here are a few updates:<br />
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1. We upgraded our hinges in the kitchen to soft close-they're awesome and an was an easy DIY install. However, in order to do the same to the drawers, we're going to have to contact Timberlake and order all new hardware because of the material the cabinets are made from.<br />
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2. We've repainted the higher traffic areas in Sherwin Williams best paint. If you're considering the paint package, look at your other options first, as the paint Ryan uses is thin and flat-easily shows dirt, scratches and takes the paint off when you clean it.<br />
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3. Richard's office is now complete and an in your face tribute to his home team the Buffalo Bills.<br />
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4. Finally, I broke down and did the landscaping edging I've wanted since last year plus adding a touch of color for the season.<br />
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Overall, the house looks completely different. Its crazy how much things have changed/evolved in the past year.<br />
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The fourth bedroom officially has a bed but still bears the burden as being a catchall.<br />
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Front room is still under construction, but at least looks like some thought was put towards it instead of having nothing in it. Its not visible in the picture, but we even a light fixture to replace just the bulb.<br />
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The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-61203979622750745972013-07-27T16:14:00.001-07:002013-07-27T16:34:31.544-07:00Crafting <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Now that we're settled in the house, I've been trying my hand at some crafts. I've always enjoyed finding and trying out new things, but since I've been furloughed, I've finally had the time to accomplish it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here are a couple of the projects as of recently:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Photo Wreath</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We always end up with cards laying around the kitchen. I wanted a way to keep the cards as a reminder of the kind words people send, so after searching for ideas via Pinterest, I came up with this. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I started by spray painting the clothespins and wreath ring colors that would match my kitchen. After everything dried, I spaced the clothespins to cover the holes that were on the wreath and fill the spaces in between. The ribbon was leftover from Christmas. Hung from a 3M command hook on my pantry door and it fits just perfectly!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Pony Bead Cake and Goodie Stand</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If I make more as gifts, this is going to be a trial and error process...but here's how the first turned out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I started with the cheap, plastic pony beads (about 2500 of them). Later, I used an upside down candlestick holder with E6000 adhesive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I melted the beads in a 12" omelet skillet for about 25 minutes at 400. Next time, I'll try a little longer to see if it will come out a little less bumpy on top. I've read that you can also use a pizza pan, but this is what I had on hand (since my pizza pans have the air circulating holes). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, I'm not sure if because my pan is andonized that I really should have used it. On the bottom side, it was nice and smooth, but took on the slight texture of the pan, making it more cloudy looking and less translucent like it does on top. I'll probably pick up a cheap 12" cake or pizza pan next time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After removing from the heat, I let it cool for about 20 minutes. When the plastic settled and re-hardened, the edges were slightly raised and had pointy edges. I just took a sanding block and rounded them off. I kind of like the little edge it created to give the platter a little definition.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the final product. I should mention that it does smell when "cooking". I didn't notice it until I opened the oven door to check on it about half-way through. The smell went away as soon as I removed it from the oven.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The bottom turned out nice and flat, but there were small spots where the plastic didn't completely melt. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Looking forward to use this next time I bake a cake or make some goodies that deserve a nice presentation! For now, it's housing my candles :)</span></div>
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<b> </b>The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-50561457265884767482012-11-24T19:56:00.001-08:002012-11-24T19:56:28.150-08:00Holiday Decorating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our Christmas trees in the living room and basement. </div>
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Our Christmas village...through we've added to it since this photo was taken, our stockings over the fire place in the living room, and some of the exterior lights we hung. Next year I'll focus more on the outside. This year was more finishing touches around the house.<br />
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It's been a hectic two weeks preparing for Richard's family to visit for Thanksgiving-gathering recipes, shopping for all the groceries and having the house look somewhat holiday-esque for Christmas too. <br />
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Overall, I'm sad it's over and that work is looming in about 36 hours, but I'm looking forward to our trip to my parents for Christmas next month. The good news is, I've got all my shopping and wrapping almost done!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-26933534938025228502012-10-31T18:02:00.002-07:002012-10-31T18:02:22.510-07:00A few wedding photos too...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5qw3j1uIZsA/UJHGOFKQ26I/AAAAAAAAAbc/fUm3sP4cJok/s1600/A+Red+Bricks+Photo+(18).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5qw3j1uIZsA/UJHGOFKQ26I/AAAAAAAAAbc/fUm3sP4cJok/s320/A+Red+Bricks+Photo+(18).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-siXV59iYR-8/UJHGTv4tO3I/AAAAAAAAAbk/h8mvgVcHpTs/s1600/A+Red+Bricks+Photo+(21).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-siXV59iYR-8/UJHGTv4tO3I/AAAAAAAAAbk/h8mvgVcHpTs/s320/A+Red+Bricks+Photo+(21).jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend since middle school, who is now the Orchestra Director in our hometown schools, played for us as a wedding gift.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CIwyjxaDJ74/UJHGZfxOBTI/AAAAAAAAAbw/LKb6ONB6x2E/s1600/A+Red+Bricks+Photo+(72).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CIwyjxaDJ74/UJHGZfxOBTI/AAAAAAAAAbw/LKb6ONB6x2E/s320/A+Red+Bricks+Photo+(72).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just married!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J31RQUFBelI/UJHGli_yNbI/AAAAAAAAAb4/iDPbelnK9vo/s1600/B+Red+Bricks+Photo+(33).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J31RQUFBelI/UJHGli_yNbI/AAAAAAAAAb4/iDPbelnK9vo/s320/B+Red+Bricks+Photo+(33).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridal party</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My family</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7UTIpFgSsNU/UJHHKK_OKJI/AAAAAAAAAco/k4lxbVjpF34/s1600/C+Red+Bricks+Photo++(61).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7UTIpFgSsNU/UJHHKK_OKJI/AAAAAAAAAco/k4lxbVjpF34/s320/C+Red+Bricks+Photo++(61).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I loved my bouquet</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-69CyGZTIOB0/UJHHrzJpnPI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/Ng6s3hYBakA/s1600/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(11).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-69CyGZTIOB0/UJHHrzJpnPI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/Ng6s3hYBakA/s320/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(11).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small and intimate, 18 guests</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5oB0BIZmGUY/UJHH-P3EggI/AAAAAAAAAdo/7DpiCMy_et4/s1600/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(63).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5oB0BIZmGUY/UJHH-P3EggI/AAAAAAAAAdo/7DpiCMy_et4/s320/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(63).jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First dance</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ttnuk7xrXaw/UJHIEQq90aI/AAAAAAAAAd0/evVe9ADcmgI/s1600/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(76).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ttnuk7xrXaw/UJHIEQq90aI/AAAAAAAAAd0/evVe9ADcmgI/s320/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(76).jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second reason you go cake tasting is to try your own cake b/c you don't get a chance to eat it the night of!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-20DC5Q8na4s/UJHIKwOiZAI/AAAAAAAAAd8/PgofW_l0UIQ/s1600/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(86).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-20DC5Q8na4s/UJHIKwOiZAI/AAAAAAAAAd8/PgofW_l0UIQ/s320/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(86).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our rings and my flowers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_E6w-ogjzs/UJHITCeWoSI/AAAAAAAAAeE/yZm0105SRJE/s1600/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(87).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_E6w-ogjzs/UJHITCeWoSI/AAAAAAAAAeE/yZm0105SRJE/s320/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(87).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flowers and shoes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUb8fm4zSGQ/UJHIaGP6lRI/AAAAAAAAAeU/SgYY7JlMusI/s1600/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(89).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUb8fm4zSGQ/UJHIaGP6lRI/AAAAAAAAAeU/SgYY7JlMusI/s320/D+Red+Bricks+Photo+(89).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our guests</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IMW-zxc4D1c/UJHJlDxqTeI/AAAAAAAAAec/N4kDjZXGiXM/s1600/IMG_1768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IMW-zxc4D1c/UJHJlDxqTeI/AAAAAAAAAec/N4kDjZXGiXM/s320/IMG_1768.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dress and the cool hanger my sister bought me</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ko1mCtytXpw/UJHJmOAHoGI/AAAAAAAAAek/lGClpPG-28I/s1600/CARTEHE+34025+10-12-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ko1mCtytXpw/UJHJmOAHoGI/AAAAAAAAAek/lGClpPG-28I/s320/CARTEHE+34025+10-12-12.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So I loved my bouquet so much I went through a local company <a href="https://www.freezeframeit.com/" target="_blank">Freeze Frame</a> to have my flowers professionally hydrated, dried and arranged into a display case. The colors are a little off, but that was expected. Haven't picked it up yet...been waiting since May! They are so busy it's like a 24 week turnaround!</td></tr>
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<br />The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-9997278816478788132012-10-31T17:02:00.000-07:002012-10-31T17:02:16.494-07:00Long time no blog!Hope everyone has been well and had a smooth transition moving in to their new homes! We've been in our house for almost 6 months now, and it's been fabulous! We spent the summer organizing and prioritizing purchases to finish rooms. We still have a lot of progress to go, but I'm very happy with where we're at...not to mention stoked for the upcoming holidays and all the decorating we get to do :)<br />
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Other than that, we've stayed fairly busy-finally took our honeymoon to Gatlinburg (absolutely gorgeous), visited and hosted family and friends, and just enjoying life!<br />
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Thought I'd post some updated pictures to share-<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6zQmCzrhBsw/UJG4kJb4jZI/AAAAAAAAAZg/C2vIb1BW_-U/s1600/Accent+wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6zQmCzrhBsw/UJG4kJb4jZI/AAAAAAAAAZg/C2vIb1BW_-U/s400/Accent+wall.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted a blue accent wall in the bedroom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MT7TBplzthY/UJG4nAzZtdI/AAAAAAAAAZo/JdKh7iuDPE0/s1600/IMG_1827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MT7TBplzthY/UJG4nAzZtdI/AAAAAAAAAZo/JdKh7iuDPE0/s400/IMG_1827.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New living room furniture +console table that houses a few of our wedding photos.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evHXNLsxHHM/UJG4quVlciI/AAAAAAAAAZw/f2JE8kfQyFA/s1600/IMG_1828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evHXNLsxHHM/UJG4quVlciI/AAAAAAAAAZw/f2JE8kfQyFA/s400/IMG_1828.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New big screen tv and Richard not even watching!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCPeGb5TavU/UJG4uF-OsRI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/YjHrkMN0bZw/s1600/IMG_1831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCPeGb5TavU/UJG4uF-OsRI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/YjHrkMN0bZw/s400/IMG_1831.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Same blue accent wall in the basement-tried to be a little cohesive with the decor throughout the house with the blues and greens</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hhLtGYT6PfY/UJG4xYqFvmI/AAAAAAAAAaA/_QfF-Tkf6_8/s1600/IMG_1832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hhLtGYT6PfY/UJG4xYqFvmI/AAAAAAAAAaA/_QfF-Tkf6_8/s400/IMG_1832.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorated for fall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1MJFyCrsQ7w/UJG40hpo9fI/AAAAAAAAAaM/fdv4Goh-HNg/s1600/IMG_1833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1MJFyCrsQ7w/UJG40hpo9fI/AAAAAAAAAaM/fdv4Goh-HNg/s400/IMG_1833.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally got storage racks for all our "extra" stuff in the basement. Best part is my new Christmas tree. I was a little excited when it was delivered (scary experience buying a tree online, but it's gorgeous and I would do it again in a heartbeat), hence it's put together and I started eyeballing some of my decor.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I7V-W6Cw3Yc/UJG46DRXQmI/AAAAAAAAAaU/8lzf2uP8EHs/s1600/IMG_1834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I7V-W6Cw3Yc/UJG46DRXQmI/AAAAAAAAAaU/8lzf2uP8EHs/s400/IMG_1834.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The most recent addition-Richard's new workspace. So much nicer compared to the little desk that barely held his monitors before. Eventually we're going to add a nice bookshelf, lateral file and maybe even a recliner...if he's lucky :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VwI7vEB3jTk/UJG49SU-SNI/AAAAAAAAAac/TxSbGLqtIdY/s1600/IMG_1836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VwI7vEB3jTk/UJG49SU-SNI/AAAAAAAAAac/TxSbGLqtIdY/s400/IMG_1836.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lot of our guests prefer to watch a movie or tv before going to bed in their own privacy, so we added our old living room tv to the larger of the guest bedrooms. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y0Des6SD0_M/UJG5Ac10GUI/AAAAAAAAAak/kklS2eJ0ODQ/s1600/IMG_1838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y0Des6SD0_M/UJG5Ac10GUI/AAAAAAAAAak/kklS2eJ0ODQ/s400/IMG_1838.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally got a bed for the guest bed #2. I'm excited our siblings don't have to sleep on the couch or an air mattress when they come to visit now. BTW if anyone is in the market for a decent bed at a great price, try <a href="http://www.samsclub.com/sams/12-night-therapy-euro-box-top-spring-mattress-bed-frame-set-queen/prod2980317.ip?navAction=" target="_blank">Samsclub.com</a>! This bed doesn't come with the traditional boxspring, but rather a smart base. It lifts the bed off the floor 14", provides a lot of support and creates massive amounts of storage space underneath. Oh did I mention it's pretty comfy too? <3</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B2fqvL54xvU/UJG5ER8o0QI/AAAAAAAAAas/bbSHmU5pqgo/s1600/IMG_1837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B2fqvL54xvU/UJG5ER8o0QI/AAAAAAAAAas/bbSHmU5pqgo/s400/IMG_1837.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally framed my treasured graduation gift from my old nursery school kids. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uzHm3KT5_pI/UJG5IRtvf1I/AAAAAAAAAa4/IzRdUlg4tyY/s1600/IMG_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uzHm3KT5_pI/UJG5IRtvf1I/AAAAAAAAAa4/IzRdUlg4tyY/s400/IMG_1783.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorated for fall again</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0QyzOcq1s1A/UJG5Lj26J0I/AAAAAAAAAbA/HjCL-ZyaE1Y/s1600/IMG_1781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0QyzOcq1s1A/UJG5Lj26J0I/AAAAAAAAAbA/HjCL-ZyaE1Y/s400/IMG_1781.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can't not have pumpkins, but I've had my fair share of sensory experiences with them at work, so I decided to go a none traditional route from carving and wrapped white lights around them. Look pretty cool driving by at night too.</td></tr>
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One thing I don't have a picture of is the amazing storage/organization system we hung in the garage. I love that we can pull both cars (his a luxury size sedan and mine an SUV) in to the garage with space to walk around. Everything is up off the floor and easily accessible.<br />
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Anyways, hope you enjoy the update, and have a great HALLOWEEN!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-63345585150090443072012-05-26T18:41:00.004-07:002012-05-26T18:41:57.427-07:00Home...Is where the military sends youIt's been a CRAZY three weeks. Richard was amazing, getting all of our small stuff moved in, the surround sound systems hooked up and all the basics functioning in time for when my parents came to town. They were so gracious coming in a few days early to help wrap up a lot of little projects (and some big ones too) before all our guests started arriving for the wedding last Friday. We got ceiling fans hung and our morning room hung, the rooms decorated and drapes hung, stocked up on cleaners, food, and necessities, and the men cut a hole in our wall to open up more storage under the basement stairs!<br />
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Since we were just trying to catch our breath after everyone left Saturday afternoon, we re-engaged today to accomplish a few more things. I think we're going to attack the deck tomorrow evening for staining.<br />
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Overall, the house is fantastic! Only a few glitches here and there, but everyone with Ryan has been so helpful.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FV89Hu974Gc/T8F-hVJkpGI/AAAAAAAAAVY/P8ehn9nnQII/s1600/IMG_1577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FV89Hu974Gc/T8F-hVJkpGI/AAAAAAAAAVY/P8ehn9nnQII/s400/IMG_1577.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We have flowers, flags, and beautiful green grass.</td></tr>
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L-Morning room C-Love the kitchen, probably one of my favorite rooms in the house R-New storage system in entry way off kitchen to garage.</div>
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Family room. We'll be getting new couches for this room and these will be moved to the formal living room at the front.</div>
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Picture is not wanting to center correctly, but this is the new addition in the basement. My dad added some sweet shelves and peg board for Richard to organize a lot of our tools. <br />
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L- On the front side of the basement is Richard's office, and "I love me" wall. We'll be adding to it and hopefully getting him a bigger desk eventually. R- Our new sectional and the skyline print of Buffalo I found.</div>
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Media wall with Richard's pride and joy. We decided to pick up some track lighting from IKEA to add to the inside of the entertainment center. It changes colors too!</div>
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Guest bedrooms 1 and 2- my Arkansas room is staged right now with old living room tables and an air mattress. Still need to hang my wall shelves and make my Fayetteville wall of photos.</div>
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Master bedroom and animals. Riley (our cat) loves the house and all the new hiding places. </div>
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Master closet and my organization system for shoes/jewelry. I can't express how nice it is to be able to see all my clothes at once and not just 1/3 of them.</div>
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Guest bed 3 and bathroom. We have a lot of space to fill, but plenty of time to do it</div>
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I'll post some wedding pictures soon! We should have our professional photos back in a few weeks. Hope all is well with everyone! and congratulations to all who have closed, broken ground, or are making progress!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-32097922715090273452012-05-07T19:01:00.003-07:002012-05-07T19:02:22.155-07:00And We're Off!We closed today! It was quick and painless, took all of 35 minutes. As soon as we finished inking the last of the pages, we sped all the way to the house to start unpacking all of the things we loaded last night. Very happy with what we accomplished! Got almost everything that were in boxes moved, some small furniture pieces and random items. I was able to get the kitchen 2/3 of the way set up and ready to go for Wednesday. Richard still has his work cut out for him tomorrow though, and we have a good pile in the garage to distribute throughout the house.<br />
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Blinds are being installed tomorrow morning, movers are coming for the big stuff Wednesday morning, our new couch is being delivered Friday, as well as getting cable/internet set up. Lots happening, all while I'm at work. I'm thankful I get to come home and everything be moved though. Will post some pictures soon.<br />
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Overall, I'm confident the house will be in presentable condition by the time my parents get here Saturday. At least I hope it is, because next week is dedicated to wedding prep...11 more days! Closing, moving, unpacking, hosting company, and getting married all in 2 weeks :) I love it!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-50611598955917431902012-05-02T16:31:00.001-07:002012-05-02T16:31:08.920-07:00I Can See The Finish Line<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got everything except sod today!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My double oven :) </td></tr>
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<br />The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-12576474571413556342012-04-28T13:58:00.004-07:002012-04-28T13:58:48.671-07:00Happy Birthday to Me!<div style="text-align: center;">
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One of the best birthday presents, CARPET! They installed it today, granite yesterday. Everything has come together beautifully. One week from Monday and we'll have the key. Still haven't started packing, but who wants to work on their birthday? Not me! We did get boxes, tape and packing paper, so the fun shall commence tomorrow after a trip to IKEA.<br />
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Anyways, as always, here are some pics :) You stay classy fellow bloggers!<br />
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The lighting has been making it difficult to really capture the true colors. </div>
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L- Richard seeing how he fits in the garden tub. M-Family room R-trying to capture the color of the carpet. It's a little lighter in person. Overall, everything blends well together.</div>
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<br />The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-28679238479243035542012-04-26T17:58:00.001-07:002012-04-26T17:58:55.572-07:00Laminate flooringThe past two days have yielded a lot of changes! Drywall has been touched up and all the walls repainted. Laminate flooring was installed, cleaning has started, dishwasher in place, and rails stained. It's all coming together so fast. It seems like yesterday that we were reviewing floor plans and upgrade choices and now we're 10 days out.<br />
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We got our official settlement date and time along with all the information needed to change over/establish utilities in our name. Looks like it's officially time to start packing this weekend :) <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lighting was difficult today. Was trying to get a better representation of our wall color and flooring. This does it the best justice out of all the pictures taken.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The extension and flow in to the morning room makes the space feel so big! Now I just need to make a trip to IKEA for an area rug under the dining room table.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stain looks a little uneven, but they should fix that tomorrow. We went with a darker color to pick up the contrast on the laminate, be consistent with the cabinets, and it looks great against the lighter carpet and walls.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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We'll be going back out tomorrow. The rest of the initial cleaning should be finished and granite installed. I'm curious as to when they'll be installing the carpet and appliances. Guess I'll find that out tomorrow too, as our PM likes to give weekly updates on Friday. Til next time!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-49417002415504138842012-04-22T17:16:00.001-07:002012-04-26T17:58:41.060-07:00Let There Be LightWhile we were away at a wedding for the weekend, the guys finished up all the trim work and installed the lights! This week will be dry wall touch ups, second coat of paint, and laminate flooring.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wiring and holes where in-ceiling speakers will be.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the stairway light</td></tr>
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Would just like to say how great everyone's houses are looking! Everyone
is really making progress, and I want to say thanks for posting
pictures and sharing!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-70316758079660588242012-04-19T18:00:00.000-07:002012-04-19T18:00:08.386-07:00Cabinets and...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J6LlhoEKm2A/T5Cz50op9vI/AAAAAAAAASA/9wdkozsXhjA/s1600/IMG_1523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J6LlhoEKm2A/T5Cz50op9vI/AAAAAAAAASA/9wdkozsXhjA/s320/IMG_1523.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Our fireplace! We have a mantel!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CGj-2TZMwqE/T5Cz9hh9cDI/AAAAAAAAASI/j96wzhxgUOM/s1600/IMG_1524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CGj-2TZMwqE/T5Cz9hh9cDI/AAAAAAAAASI/j96wzhxgUOM/s200/IMG_1524.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n3qpijYSi8s/T5C0BsCxC1I/AAAAAAAAASQ/uG1yxByuZB8/s1600/IMG_1525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n3qpijYSi8s/T5C0BsCxC1I/AAAAAAAAASQ/uG1yxByuZB8/s200/IMG_1525.JPG" width="149" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fkJzALG2nuU/T5C0KIuiiWI/AAAAAAAAASg/Bc8rh25prX8/s1600/IMG_1527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fkJzALG2nuU/T5C0KIuiiWI/AAAAAAAAASg/Bc8rh25prX8/s200/IMG_1527.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nKUiRtba8rc/T5C0FvbJDcI/AAAAAAAAASY/3NbcmVEFKjs/s1600/IMG_1526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nKUiRtba8rc/T5C0FvbJDcI/AAAAAAAAASY/3NbcmVEFKjs/s200/IMG_1526.JPG" width="200" /></a></div> Rolling drawers...have never had these, and really looking forward to it. Overall, I was happy to see everything hung and in place-it literally made my day as work was a little rough. Thank goodness tomorrow is Friday!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-69873570473291471902012-04-18T16:18:00.000-07:002012-04-18T16:18:03.451-07:00Can I Just Say?!How much I love our deck! It's huge! The second picture is a better representation as seen from the fourth bedroom window. Oh, they start unpacking our cabinets too. The gentleman working on it said they should all be done hung and done this time tomorrow. Will definitely be going back out-until then!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3-8Hh2_Ae-s/T49K1NQFqrI/AAAAAAAAARw/GSHp3BmAgLk/s1600/IMG_1521%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3-8Hh2_Ae-s/T49K1NQFqrI/AAAAAAAAARw/GSHp3BmAgLk/s400/IMG_1521%5B1%5D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xw4xbI7ZGQo/T49K43iod9I/AAAAAAAAAR4/nowOsZBSJl0/s1600/IMG_1522%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xw4xbI7ZGQo/T49K43iod9I/AAAAAAAAAR4/nowOsZBSJl0/s400/IMG_1522%5B1%5D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-12470502533230396692012-04-17T12:54:00.000-07:002012-04-17T12:54:34.186-07:00Paint and Vinyl FlooringIf you're debating on the paint package, it's definitely worth every penny! We love our color and are glad to not have to paint the whole house after moving in. It'll get a little deeper in color after the put the second coats on, but I really think it makes the space inviting. They installed our vinyl flooring today too. Tomorrow they should start our trim work and hopefully by the end of the week, cabinets and such.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Z6PSv9CFqo/T43JSa_HSQI/AAAAAAAAAQs/PN2WnIVYTaA/s1600/IMG_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Z6PSv9CFqo/T43JSa_HSQI/AAAAAAAAAQs/PN2WnIVYTaA/s200/IMG_0027.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YnyMfhpyHhc/T43JZXdERRI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/qpQz1Yxniz8/s1600/IMG_0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YnyMfhpyHhc/T43JZXdERRI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/qpQz1Yxniz8/s200/IMG_0029.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> L- Love, love, love our garage windows! R- Vinyl flooring in the bathrooms and laundry.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cPU8KrJuahM/T43JfNEhuWI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/3L71nkB8tOo/s1600/IMG_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cPU8KrJuahM/T43JfNEhuWI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/3L71nkB8tOo/s200/IMG_0036.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kvVvRdj9dfE/T43Jj3i0OqI/AAAAAAAAARE/d4oKOXVFyH0/s1600/IMG_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kvVvRdj9dfE/T43Jj3i0OqI/AAAAAAAAARE/d4oKOXVFyH0/s200/IMG_0037.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">L- Kitchen and morning room R-Another shot of the family room </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Y9O3Z3g7-E/T43JpPS1wLI/AAAAAAAAARM/44Ic4uNRhlA/s1600/IMG_0038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Y9O3Z3g7-E/T43JpPS1wLI/AAAAAAAAARM/44Ic4uNRhlA/s200/IMG_0038.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IUyQDbnkE30/T43Jt7Jm1YI/AAAAAAAAARU/eGfFoWwbqf4/s1600/IMG_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IUyQDbnkE30/T43Jt7Jm1YI/AAAAAAAAARU/eGfFoWwbqf4/s200/IMG_0041.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">L- It's Christmas! All our cabinets, trim, doors, hardware, etc. waiting for install over the next couple of days. R- Basement</span></div>The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-1025756920606905212012-04-14T13:58:00.001-07:002012-04-14T13:59:49.712-07:00Venice, Venice, and More VenicePM called yesterday for our weekly update. The guys finished up the dry wall, and will be moving on to applying the first coat of paint, sanding the floors, installing the finishes and vinyl next week.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4oVwBn8yoRM/T4nd3b63N2I/AAAAAAAAAQM/j_6oUrzh_2o/s1600/IMG_1511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4oVwBn8yoRM/T4nd3b63N2I/AAAAAAAAAQM/j_6oUrzh_2o/s200/IMG_1511.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3z5862LeW1U/T4nd7vreTbI/AAAAAAAAAQU/ajN2T6sGgkI/s1600/IMG_1513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3z5862LeW1U/T4nd7vreTbI/AAAAAAAAAQU/ajN2T6sGgkI/s200/IMG_1513.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> L-Entry way from front as part of the formal living/dining room R-View of kitchen from family room</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QLIY4-0Qnw/T4nd-0Kfg8I/AAAAAAAAAQc/S4YUiH8pgxk/s1600/IMG_1514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QLIY4-0Qnw/T4nd-0Kfg8I/AAAAAAAAAQc/S4YUiH8pgxk/s200/IMG_1514.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gK_2Bco3LvY/T4neCpOpagI/AAAAAAAAAQk/ciFBH91Szek/s1600/IMG_1518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gK_2Bco3LvY/T4neCpOpagI/AAAAAAAAAQk/ciFBH91Szek/s200/IMG_1518.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> L-Morning room with sliding patio door R-Master bedroom</span></div><br />
We decided to go out and see the finished dry wall product. While there, we stopped by the model-they've sold the two lots next to us and found out the changed the portfolio of floorplans available on our side of the community (again). I'm sure this was a corporate decision to try to sell the lots faster, but I'm not happy about it because they've eliminated several of floorplans and are allowing two of the smaller homes to be built on the larger lots (of course there's a bit of a premium built in to the base price) but this doesn't help increase our property value.<br />
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Regardless, the two homes going up between ours and the home that's already finished near the front of the community are both Venices. So, that's 4 Venices in a row on our side of the street-UGH. Yes, they'll have "different colors" and "different elevations" but I was really hoping for some variety. Only thing I can hope for is we have more upgrades than those do for eventual resale value.<br />
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On a happier note, I'm excited to report and congratulate my mom on taking home the reserve championship with Express! Hope she does just as well when she shows back with Bucky in his division championship tonight! Anyone interested can check out her pictures at: <a href="http://www.terryyoungphoto.com/Events/2012/C.%29_April_12-14._Bridlespur_Kick-Off_Show_-_OFallon,_MO./frames.htm" target="_blank">Bridlespur MHSA Kickoff Show proofs</a> for class 71A-Park Championship Amateur and Junior riders. She's on the chestnut horse with the white blaze and 3 white socks (first frame is 5055)The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-46584593381924485982012-04-12T15:44:00.000-07:002012-04-12T15:44:10.152-07:00A Blank CanvasThey are almost done dry walling the house! It's weird walking in to all the white, but exciting that it's all coming together and each room is separate. The guys were busy working when we stopped by today, so I didn't get any pictures-will take some over the weekend.<br />
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We did get our appointment booked with Home Depot to have the blind measurements taken. They'll be coming out next Tuesday afternoon. Once they have those, we can choose our blinds and make the installation appointment the week after we close! I'm extremely relieved to know we'll have privacy in the house when we move in, as it was one of my biggest concerns.<br />
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Anyways, short blog today, though I do want to give a shout out to my mom. She's in St. Louis competing at her first horse show this season. So far she's really giving the bigger barns a run for their money. Mom, if you're reading this, just remember to check and recheck your canter leads! If Dynamite taught us anything, that would be it. Do that and you should have that championship ribbon hanging from your bridle! Love you!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-71718041222002569662012-04-11T17:55:00.001-07:002012-04-11T18:01:44.504-07:00Closing Date ConfirmedAfter much dialogue between myself and our PM, our close date has been confirmed for 7 May, with Pre-Settlement happening on 4 May! Everything is aligning perfectly right now. We'll have two days to move all our small items, movers will come on the 10th to move the big things, cable set up on the 11th, and my parents will be here the 12th.<br />
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For those building a Venice: when we did our walk through, the other PM noted an additional area in the basement that may be converted for utilization of space. Behind the wall next to the bottom of the stairs, you can knock out a stud that isn't load bearing to install a door. It isn't the most cost effective storage solution approach. However, if you have a home theater system, this is a great place to hide your subwoofer and free up floor space in your living area.<br />
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Since my parents are coming in a week early for the wedding, my dad and Richard are getting tasked with this! I'll be sure to post pictures of the before and after for everyone!<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h7yls3vzcek/T4YodJ8Wd_I/AAAAAAAAAQE/z-DhZUgfUDw/s1600/IMG_1497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h7yls3vzcek/T4YodJ8Wd_I/AAAAAAAAAQE/z-DhZUgfUDw/s320/IMG_1497.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The storage will be behind this wall. Richard will build a base for the sub underneath the stairwell platform.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-28335164783386488312012-04-06T16:51:00.001-07:002012-04-07T04:36:19.339-07:00We've Been StonedThe guys were just finishing up as we did our drive by. I love the look from a distance, but only like it up close. There's more gap between the stone than I thought there would be. BUT, I do think it pulls the cottage look together. If only my shutters looked more blue! I'm hoping the door will be more noticeable. They look black to me-Richard says I'm just color blind.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fYI3gRc2Has/T3-BXX1nIOI/AAAAAAAAAP8/u2OxqWcYpkY/s1600/IMG_1504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fYI3gRc2Has/T3-BXX1nIOI/AAAAAAAAAP8/u2OxqWcYpkY/s400/IMG_1504.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-77644576049304553062012-04-05T17:08:00.000-07:002012-04-05T17:08:44.386-07:00Pre-Drywall MeetingI can't believe we finally made it to pre-drywall, but we did! Since our PM is out of town this week, the other PM in the community graciously stepped in so no time would be lost. Most everything looked great. They did miss my outlet placement located above the kitchen cabinets, but he said it would be taken care of. Normally, they provide you with your closing date at this point, but we'll find out when our PM gets back on Monday. I suppose hanging tight for a few more days won't kill me, though I am very anxious to find out when the special day will be!<br />
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He also shared with us the timeline of events for the next few weeks. Pending we passed all our inspections today (energy star, city, and one more), they'll start drywall tomorrow. It'll take a week for everything to be completed. The two weeks after that will be spent installing all our finishes, painting and touch ups. Our stone was delivered today, and will hopefully be installed by Monday-maybe even over the weekend.<br />
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It seems like yesterday that we were just starting this process, and in a short month, we'll be <strike>homeowners</strike> mortgage payers!!!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-33553971405040932212012-04-04T16:13:00.000-07:002012-04-04T16:13:36.026-07:00Siding, Shakes and Shutters, Oh My!Made another drive by tonight to check on the progress and see if Guardian had made it out to install the outlet that was missed. To our surprise, all the siding, shakes and second floor shutters were up! Oh, and the outlet has been taken care of, yay! Since we got our Pre-dry wall meeting scheduled for tomorrow, we wanted to double check everything else so we can get done as quickly as possible since the only time the PM could do it was on our lunch. We'll see how it goes :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Os2-gqRcRb4/T3zVQP_dDjI/AAAAAAAAAPs/tsrpfGRy2jA/s1600/IMG_1501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Os2-gqRcRb4/T3zVQP_dDjI/AAAAAAAAAPs/tsrpfGRy2jA/s400/IMG_1501.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shutters look black but they're navy. I'm a little disappointed how dark they turned out. I was hoping you would really be able to tell they were blue. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QrS02r7gKt4/T3zVVd_C_6I/AAAAAAAAAP0/_i1p14Vppos/s1600/IMG_1502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QrS02r7gKt4/T3zVVd_C_6I/AAAAAAAAAP0/_i1p14Vppos/s400/IMG_1502.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What the family room currently looks like (as seen from the kitchen).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-13509847306707006272012-04-03T18:14:00.000-07:002012-04-03T18:14:47.942-07:00Locked In!We locked in our rate the other day at 3.875 with a credit towards closing! Rates had been hovering around 4.00, so I was delighted when the loan officer shot back with this.<br />
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In other news, Guardian finished up their work yesterday. I'm so glad we decided to stop by because they completely missed a CAT 5 outlet in the basement. Rep called today after receiving my email. Someone should be out to fix it this week. Other than that, just waiting to hear from the other PM on site to set up our Pre-Dry Wall meeting. Before ours left on vacation, he said we should be scheduling it by Thursday. Not so sure what's going on right now.<br />
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Oh, and as we were leaving the neighborhood yesterday, we ran in to neighbors who just moved in that Richard knew from work. They built a Springbrook and have invited us over next time we're out that way to do a walk through inside-looking forward to it!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-40005623489747335022012-03-31T14:18:00.000-07:002012-03-31T14:18:53.331-07:00The Heart, Lungs, and BladderWe have house guts! The guys were working hard this afternoon when we stopped by to visit. Electric and plumbing have been run, HVAC and water heater is in, and the framers have fixed the majority of the holes/broken 2x4s.<br />
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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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G-IfWLBXh7g/T3dx2sk-CdI/AAAAAAAAAOE/BmVMxbWaHV8/s1600/IMG_1488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G-IfWLBXh7g/T3dx2sk-CdI/AAAAAAAAAOE/BmVMxbWaHV8/s400/IMG_1488.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the glass in the door and on the garage! </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O9O9O2NO2T4/T3dx7xg6fMI/AAAAAAAAAOM/nCVkyKUPz2Q/s1600/IMG_1489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O9O9O2NO2T4/T3dx7xg6fMI/AAAAAAAAAOM/nCVkyKUPz2Q/s200/IMG_1489.JPG" width="149" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Woqm0ckIIjM/T3dyBFj8W7I/AAAAAAAAAOU/T4VqqAVOdqM/s1600/IMG_1490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Woqm0ckIIjM/T3dyBFj8W7I/AAAAAAAAAOU/T4VqqAVOdqM/s200/IMG_1490.JPG" width="149" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">R-Laundry room L-Tub has been put in place in the guest bath</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sk6s9fTradE/T3dyGNqaq6I/AAAAAAAAAOc/zs-6OxQFybA/s1600/IMG_1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sk6s9fTradE/T3dyGNqaq6I/AAAAAAAAAOc/zs-6OxQFybA/s200/IMG_1491.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JweymoOMFdo/T3dyU0ePQwI/AAAAAAAAAO0/1mljmOju0jU/s1600/IMG_1494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JweymoOMFdo/T3dyU0ePQwI/AAAAAAAAAO0/1mljmOju0jU/s200/IMG_1494.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">L- Master tub. Really glad we decided to do the oversized garden tub. It looks really nice in place R- Ceiling fan rough ins</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PVLWmlgwSE8/T3dyZwE-DdI/AAAAAAAAAO8/g7Zvsz7AP_0/s1600/IMG_1495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PVLWmlgwSE8/T3dyZwE-DdI/AAAAAAAAAO8/g7Zvsz7AP_0/s200/IMG_1495.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J0NVuo7wbUk/T3dyjxtKwLI/AAAAAAAAAPM/fJOiT7GtfIk/s1600/IMG_1497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J0NVuo7wbUk/T3dyjxtKwLI/AAAAAAAAAPM/fJOiT7GtfIk/s200/IMG_1497.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">L- Water heater, HVAC R-This is the wall we'll be hanging our tv on in the basement</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tRZP-nZvZd4/T3dypK7Mf1I/AAAAAAAAAPU/pCv9Jewg8mY/s1600/IMG_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tRZP-nZvZd4/T3dypK7Mf1I/AAAAAAAAAPU/pCv9Jewg8mY/s200/IMG_1498.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0LQDaBnEPo/T3dyt-G6kMI/AAAAAAAAAPc/ze_pmz-85Ew/s1600/IMG_1499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0LQDaBnEPo/T3dyt-G6kMI/AAAAAAAAAPc/ze_pmz-85Ew/s200/IMG_1499.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">L- The opposite side of the basement with powder room and extra space R- Home theater room. The sectional will following the far left and back wall. The stud on the left side starts the wall as seen above.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>We decided to stop by the model, as we had a couple of questions for the sales reps. They were telling us how busy they've been and how many lots have sold. I'm still amazed at how fast this community is selling! Apparently they're opening up another section of the community on the Chateau side in June! We're hoping with all the sales, maybe they'll be able to push for the lots next to or across from us to sell...less construction we have to deal with after we move in :)<br />
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Oh, and we found out prices have increased again! A few of the floor plans have gone up an additional 6k since the December 3k increase. Really, really, really glad we signed when we did!The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-2336617644078756592012-03-28T18:31:00.000-07:002012-03-28T18:31:10.061-07:00Richard's all about playing the lottery right now (I think he's watched too many of those TLC specials on how the lottery changed people's lives). We decided to go grab a ticket and pick up some beer, but since we were half way to the house, we figured what better way to enjoy a cold one than in our new place!<br />
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Not much changed, but I did take some pictures and video for our family and friends back home!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tUP1izmHfR4/T3O6iAanINI/AAAAAAAAANs/tju3D7MTaY4/s1600/IMG_1473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tUP1izmHfR4/T3O6iAanINI/AAAAAAAAANs/tju3D7MTaY4/s200/IMG_1473.JPG" width="149" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PskUPUp1v_8/T3O6n4k1FeI/AAAAAAAAAN0/f9S7DuCOuno/s1600/IMG_1475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PskUPUp1v_8/T3O6n4k1FeI/AAAAAAAAAN0/f9S7DuCOuno/s200/IMG_1475.JPG" width="149" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bGf3xBfDMOs/T3O6rOtJy1I/AAAAAAAAAN8/U855qmFmr_o/s1600/IMG_1486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bGf3xBfDMOs/T3O6rOtJy1I/AAAAAAAAAN8/U855qmFmr_o/s200/IMG_1486.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">L-First time walking in the front! R- Have I mentioned how much I love our front door! B-view of back from property line.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317182766118437135.post-51477650069212696172012-03-27T17:28:00.000-07:002012-03-27T17:28:27.231-07:00Guardian Meeting Part IIWe met with our Guardian rep tonight to go over all our outlet locations. Things went smoothly, for the most part. He didn't have the most current sheet with the possible locations listed when we signed off on paperwork, so it took a few minutes to get how many outlets we were supposed to have straightened out. Thankfully, I brought everything with and was able to show we did purchase an extra 6 pack :) The only other hang up was trying to decide where to put the cable/Cat 5 outlets in the 4th bedroom. I had a layout of furniture in mind, as we'll be using it as an office, but apparently it wasn't ideal if we were to ever convert it to a bedroom. I might get Richard to run a couple of extra lines after they finish up Monday so we get the best of both worlds.<br />
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Anyways, I was really surprised to see how much progress they made today. The roof/shingles were on, windows, garage and doors in stalled, broken framing pieces replaced, house wrapped, and HVAC system in place! Guardian will be installing Monday morning, so my guess is dry wall will be starting in a week.<br />
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This is what it looked like when we rolled up this afternoon. Couldn't get pictures in side, as the guys were still working, so will take a few for all our family and friends to see progress on the inside.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yuO7wjXII6o/T3JaKRrVb_I/AAAAAAAAANc/CQz0IbXW8cQ/s1600/IMG_1465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yuO7wjXII6o/T3JaKRrVb_I/AAAAAAAAANc/CQz0IbXW8cQ/s400/IMG_1465.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iS2A25HAPlo/T3JaPImjFbI/AAAAAAAAANk/0gRRPQ4vOtg/s1600/IMG_1466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iS2A25HAPlo/T3JaPImjFbI/AAAAAAAAANk/0gRRPQ4vOtg/s400/IMG_1466.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Today was a long day, so after our meeting, we just relaxed on the couch and watched tv. My little guy decided to join...The Carter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02066796632622487092noreply@blogger.com1