First of all, if you're still out there, thank you!
Second, I was notified that I'm a finalist for a position I've been interviewing for...and if you'd be willing to send some vibes my way, I'd appreciate it!
My current situation has been more than unpleasant for quite some time, and I'm anxious for something new...new challenges, new rewards, new people. I should hopefully know more within the week, but until then, I'm extremely nervous. I've had the same job for over six years now, and change scares me, even though I know it's what I need to do.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Friday, September 10, 2010
Mini Milestone
As of today, I am
60 days smoke-free.
There are a billion other things going on that I'm struggling with, but so far, so good on this one. And I have to remind myself of the positives whenever I can, no matter how big or small.
I would really, really like to find some way to celebrate and congratulate myself...it has to be less than $10 and canNOT involve calories ;) Thoughts?
60 days smoke-free.
There are a billion other things going on that I'm struggling with, but so far, so good on this one. And I have to remind myself of the positives whenever I can, no matter how big or small.
I would really, really like to find some way to celebrate and congratulate myself...it has to be less than $10 and canNOT involve calories ;) Thoughts?
Friday, July 2, 2010
Happy
There is NOTHING like the pure, unadulterated joy provided by an air show. Pop was a pilot before I came along, and he instilled in me an awe that is unparalleled when it comes to planes.
So when I heard the roar outside my window, I quickly ran to the parking garage. I just finished watching a practice run for Fair St. Louis this weekend, and I feel that at this very moment, I could not possibly be happier.
Sometimes I'm glad I have to work :)
So when I heard the roar outside my window, I quickly ran to the parking garage. I just finished watching a practice run for Fair St. Louis this weekend, and I feel that at this very moment, I could not possibly be happier.
Sometimes I'm glad I have to work :)
Friday, June 18, 2010
Adding this to the Dream Job files...
I would be a really, really, really, really, really, REALLY good professional taste-tester.
I think I need to create this job ASAP.
I think I need to create this job ASAP.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Toilet Talk
Yesterday was quite an experience in the women's restroom. Though it's not entirely uncommon to see little bits and pieces of TP strewn about the floor, or the occasional forgotten flush, yesterday took the cake, dear readers. For those with weak stomachs, do not read on...
Yesterday I sat in someone's urine.
There. I said it. Did I provide you with enough time to let that sink in? Because it happened. To me. And let me tell you, dear readers, the crappy one-ply industrial-strength crap they call toilet paper in this building is nowhere near enough to make me feel like I came clean. In fact, nothing worked until I took a shower at home. And I'm beyond disgusted.
Let this be a PSA directed to all
Ladies Who Hover:
1. I completely understand the grotesque factor about touching the dastardly, icky, yucky grossness that is the public toilet seat. I applaud your ability to avoid having to do so.
2. Not all of us are that capable, and frankly, I'm just too fat to hold my own body weight up and piss at the same time.
3. In addition, there is rarely a (silly, almost pointless) paper seat-cover option available.
4. While I respect - nay, admire - your strength to get a workout on the "go," I respectfully request you be sure you've left nothing behind...because as much as you don't want to touch the seat, nobody wants to sit in your urine.
As a result, I may or may not have posted signs in the ladies room as a "friendly reminder" about bathroom etiquette. Sure, people make mistakes on occasion, but for the Love of Pete, EEEEEWW.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
First major challenge
Yesterday was a good friend's birthday. We were part of an ever-so-secretive scheme to throw together a surprise party...with 3 hours notice!
:: insert eyeroll here ::
But, I managed to get through it in one piece, tobacco free. Surrounded by smokers, alcohol, AND a bonfire, I took it easier than I ever would've expected.
And I did it. :)
Thanks for the comments yesterday. I know I say that every time I venture out and try to quit, but I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it. The support always means more than you would guess, but sometimes I can't turn to Mr. P for support when we're dealing with the same challenge. I did a few flights of stairs at work during what used to be my normal break time (note to self: bring tennis shoes to work!) AND when I got home I jumped on the elliptical for 15 minutes. This may not sounds like a major feat to many of you, but Holy Crap almost covers how I feel. Dinner included rice, black beans, veggies, and a little cheese. (Those commercials don't lie when they're all "Behold the power of cheese." No shit. That may be my biggest food vice next to carbs!)
Today's a new day, and my goal is to do it all over again :)
:: insert eyeroll here ::
But, I managed to get through it in one piece, tobacco free. Surrounded by smokers, alcohol, AND a bonfire, I took it easier than I ever would've expected.
And I did it. :)
Thanks for the comments yesterday. I know I say that every time I venture out and try to quit, but I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it. The support always means more than you would guess, but sometimes I can't turn to Mr. P for support when we're dealing with the same challenge. I did a few flights of stairs at work during what used to be my normal break time (note to self: bring tennis shoes to work!) AND when I got home I jumped on the elliptical for 15 minutes. This may not sounds like a major feat to many of you, but Holy Crap almost covers how I feel. Dinner included rice, black beans, veggies, and a little cheese. (Those commercials don't lie when they're all "Behold the power of cheese." No shit. That may be my biggest food vice next to carbs!)
Today's a new day, and my goal is to do it all over again :)
Monday, June 7, 2010
It's that time again...
I wanted to post this first thing this morning, but Blogger and I had a disagreement and it won.
So I'm trying again this afternoon.
Mr. P and I are getting back on the wagon.
(again)
I really, truly want to quit. Can’t begin to tell you how hard this is…EVERY TIME I try. I honestly have no interest in the cigarettes themselves – it becomes an oral fixation of sorts, or a hand to mouth thing, or a boredom thing, or frustration, or whatever. It's just a THING.
Weird, not-quite-exact-but-sorta-close comparison: For those of you who wear glasses and/or contacts, it’s like having worn your glasses for a month, then putting contacts in one day, and constantly reaching for the glasses frames throughout the day to adjust them. Becomes second nature, and feels weird when they’re not on.
The good news: this time, we’re not in the middle of moving.
The bad news: it’s summer, and we’ll be outside a lot.
The good news: I believe I can do it.
The bad news: I’m deathly afraid I’ll gain even more weight.
My Top 10 Smoking-related Triggers:
10. Just because
9. After meals
8. Long phone calls
7. Socialization (in general)
6. Feeling down
5. With a cup of coffee
4. Catching up with
3. Pissed off at something work-related
2. Driving
1. ALCOHOL
Looks like I have to avoid quite a bit for a while. Any ideas about how to avoid work? (ha.)
On the financial side of things – patches are actually MORE expensive than cigarettes up front. I have to remind myself that spending more right now will mean spending much, MUCH less in the future.
So there you have it. Trying again to quit.
And no matter what happens, I will keep trying until I actually DO quit.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Rocky Mountain Low
I have to remember that she lived in Costa Rica for a semester, and we probably talked more then than we ever have (sorry about that phone bill, Pop!)...but that was temporary, and I knew it.
Now, instead of just being down the road a bit, she's down a much longer road, and going through Kansas. Yuck (and yikes).
She's with an amazing guy, T. They couldn't be cuter together.
I know she's happy. And I've never wanted anything less than that for Schmoogie. She deserves it. But it's hard to think about her starting a new life, entering a new world, and not being part of it.
It's making me realize how STL-bound I am. I love it here. LOVE. This is my home, and it's where I want to live and raise a family. But it's not anything new. It's certainly not exciting. Emotionally, I can't figure out if I'm jealous, or excited, or regretful, or what, really. I know this is where I belong, but sometimes I wish I'd taken advantage - or sought out more - of the opportunities out there.
More than anything, though, I just miss my seester.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
May 2010: Part II
This past weekend we drove to a small town in Texas to visit Mr. P’s dad and stepmother. We left after work on Friday, stopped overnight in Joplin, and departed on Saturday morning for the second leg of our trip. It’s been a long time since Mr. P and I spent so long in the car together, but the drive itself was a reminder of how much I enjoy his company.
(By the way, Saturday marked 8 years for us – can you believe it?! Married for nearly three, but together for EIGHT – another success!)
We arrived at our destination, checked into our hotel, and headed over to the folks’ house. Grandmommie has moved in, and is definitely showing her age in the form of dementia. It wouldn’t be fair to go into details with strangers (though I do know most of my loyal readers), but I can tell that it is a difficult situation for all.
We spent a good part of the afternoon sitting on the new deck, enjoying theheat weather. Saturday evening we headed to the Fish Fry, the fanciest restaurant in town, for a catfish dinner. As part of the catfish dinner, there are amazing hush puppies which, for me, are sometimes the best part. (This restaurant is the SINGLE requirement for Mr. P when visiting his folks, and since it’s closed on Sunday and Monday, our only option was to make it Saturday evening’s event.)
Most of the long weekend was spent relaxing. Mr. P got to go fishing with his dad, which may have been a highlight for them both.
And, copping to a guilty pleasure, we made two stops at Braum’s during the trip. My first delight was the banana fudge sundae and on our way home we stopped for a limeade. There’s just nothing quite like a REAL limeade. Funny thing about Braum’s is that it actually originated in Pop’s hometown of Emporia, Kansas. (We don’t fault him for his shortcomings - it's not his fault he was born THERE.). Tasty favorites that I'd kill to have in my neck of the woods…but it makes the trip that much more of an adventure :)
Got up Tuesday morning, packed our stuff, stopped by to say our goodbyes, and we were back on the road home. After a gloriously long car ride in one single day, we picked up the doggers from Mom and Pop’s place and finally felt like things might get back to normal soon…
…but first, we’ve got to get through Indianapolis, the Indy 500, and MY family this weekend :)
(By the way, Saturday marked 8 years for us – can you believe it?! Married for nearly three, but together for EIGHT – another success!)
We arrived at our destination, checked into our hotel, and headed over to the folks’ house. Grandmommie has moved in, and is definitely showing her age in the form of dementia. It wouldn’t be fair to go into details with strangers (though I do know most of my loyal readers), but I can tell that it is a difficult situation for all.
We spent a good part of the afternoon sitting on the new deck, enjoying the
Most of the long weekend was spent relaxing. Mr. P got to go fishing with his dad, which may have been a highlight for them both.
And, copping to a guilty pleasure, we made two stops at Braum’s during the trip. My first delight was the banana fudge sundae and on our way home we stopped for a limeade. There’s just nothing quite like a REAL limeade. Funny thing about Braum’s is that it actually originated in Pop’s hometown of Emporia, Kansas. (We don’t fault him for his shortcomings - it's not his fault he was born THERE.). Tasty favorites that I'd kill to have in my neck of the woods…but it makes the trip that much more of an adventure :)
Got up Tuesday morning, packed our stuff, stopped by to say our goodbyes, and we were back on the road home. After a gloriously long car ride in one single day, we picked up the doggers from Mom and Pop’s place and finally felt like things might get back to normal soon…
…but first, we’ve got to get through Indianapolis, the Indy 500, and MY family this weekend :)
May 2010: Part I
It’s rather sad that we’re almost halfway through the year and this is my second of only 2 blog posts for all of 2010.
As I mentioned, life is crazy. Has been, still is, and I fully expect it will continue to be.
It’s kind of amusing – I’ve been away from this for so long that I really don’t even know where to start! And I’m surprised to find there are still (some) readers out there. Oh, dear faithful readers, it must have been supremely difficult to keep me in your Google rather than shift me over to trash management :) For that, I thank you.
I guess the easiest way to start is a simple rundown of May. This is my life, in a nutshell, and a quick glimpse into what’s going on in the World of P. Let the madness begin. And my apologies in advance for the lack of photos.
The first Saturday in May, Schmoogie (the ever-amazing, enormously-talented, always-adorable sister) graduated from Webster University with degrees in photography and Spanish. Hear that, dear readers? Two, count them, TWO, degrees. In different schools. Our morning began quite early as we headed over to the Muny for the School of Communications ceremony, which was immediately followed by a ceremony for the entire graduating class of 2010 in the main theater, and then immediately followed by the ceremony for Arts & Sciences, at which Schmoogie was the student speaker.
We then headed to Carl’s Deli for lunch (a family favorite), a few hours of down time (HA!) at home, and dinner at LoRusso’s, Schmoogie’s choice for the evening.
Once home, time for the doggers, and crashing for the night.
On Mother’s Day, Schmoogie picked me up bright and early, we headed to Schnuck’s, purchased flowers and breakfast fixings. Headed to Mom and Pop’s where we were met by Mr. P and MomP to celebrate. The three kids (Schmoogie, Mr. P and I) split duties arranging flowers, making gourmet French toast, decadent fruit salad, bacon (which is still its own food group in my book), and the piece de resistance: mimosas ;)
After a glorious breakfast (that turned into brunch, and ultimately – due to our procrastinating natures – lunch), we headed home and began our dreaded spring cleaning…
…and throughout the week, when not otherwise occupied by obligations…we cleaned…
…and cleaned…
…and cleaned…
(To be fair, there were MANYobligations distractions keeping us from doing our best, including the aforementioned procrastination.)
The following Saturday, Mr. P GRADUATED. Yes, dear readers, I finally got to say that :) I could not be more proud of the mister for all his hard work, and though he has one course over the summer (really?! Who in their right mind takes linear algebra?!), he will be completely finished by the end of July.
[Sidebar: if anyone is looking, or knows of anyone looking, for a smarter-than-average, dedicated, mature, and just-perhaps-my-own-opinion rather dashing employee, I have a good recommendation for you.]
We headed to Houlihan’s after the ceremony and bought ourselves a celebratory drink or two, enjoying each other’s company and feeling a sense of relief at the sight of the light at the end of the tunnel…
…and left for home to finish up cleaning :)
Sunday, we hosted a family barbeque for three graduates: Schmoogie, Mr. P, and FFC (favorite female cousin) R, who completed her Masters degree. As usual, our schedules weren’t quite up to par and our LUNCH bbq became more of a LINNER than intended. The food, however, was phenomenal, drinks were flowing, conversation was amazing, and the DOGS BEHAVED! Ultimately, I would call it a success. The fact that we were able to host 15 people in our small home, the weather held up, and there were no injuries is probably not the standard most people use, but for me, it works.
[WOW! This has gotten long. So for those who are bearing with me, I’ll just call this Part I and finish up May in another post…my third for the year!]
As I mentioned, life is crazy. Has been, still is, and I fully expect it will continue to be.
It’s kind of amusing – I’ve been away from this for so long that I really don’t even know where to start! And I’m surprised to find there are still (some) readers out there. Oh, dear faithful readers, it must have been supremely difficult to keep me in your Google rather than shift me over to trash management :) For that, I thank you.
I guess the easiest way to start is a simple rundown of May. This is my life, in a nutshell, and a quick glimpse into what’s going on in the World of P. Let the madness begin. And my apologies in advance for the lack of photos.
The first Saturday in May, Schmoogie (the ever-amazing, enormously-talented, always-adorable sister) graduated from Webster University with degrees in photography and Spanish. Hear that, dear readers? Two, count them, TWO, degrees. In different schools. Our morning began quite early as we headed over to the Muny for the School of Communications ceremony, which was immediately followed by a ceremony for the entire graduating class of 2010 in the main theater, and then immediately followed by the ceremony for Arts & Sciences, at which Schmoogie was the student speaker.
We then headed to Carl’s Deli for lunch (a family favorite), a few hours of down time (HA!) at home, and dinner at LoRusso’s, Schmoogie’s choice for the evening.
Once home, time for the doggers, and crashing for the night.
On Mother’s Day, Schmoogie picked me up bright and early, we headed to Schnuck’s, purchased flowers and breakfast fixings. Headed to Mom and Pop’s where we were met by Mr. P and MomP to celebrate. The three kids (Schmoogie, Mr. P and I) split duties arranging flowers, making gourmet French toast, decadent fruit salad, bacon (which is still its own food group in my book), and the piece de resistance: mimosas ;)
After a glorious breakfast (that turned into brunch, and ultimately – due to our procrastinating natures – lunch), we headed home and began our dreaded spring cleaning…
…and throughout the week, when not otherwise occupied by obligations…we cleaned…
…and cleaned…
…and cleaned…
(To be fair, there were MANY
The following Saturday, Mr. P GRADUATED. Yes, dear readers, I finally got to say that :) I could not be more proud of the mister for all his hard work, and though he has one course over the summer (really?! Who in their right mind takes linear algebra?!), he will be completely finished by the end of July.
[Sidebar: if anyone is looking, or knows of anyone looking, for a smarter-than-average, dedicated, mature, and just-perhaps-my-own-opinion rather dashing employee, I have a good recommendation for you.]
We headed to Houlihan’s after the ceremony and bought ourselves a celebratory drink or two, enjoying each other’s company and feeling a sense of relief at the sight of the light at the end of the tunnel…
…and left for home to finish up cleaning :)
Sunday, we hosted a family barbeque for three graduates: Schmoogie, Mr. P, and FFC (favorite female cousin) R, who completed her Masters degree. As usual, our schedules weren’t quite up to par and our LUNCH bbq became more of a LINNER than intended. The food, however, was phenomenal, drinks were flowing, conversation was amazing, and the DOGS BEHAVED! Ultimately, I would call it a success. The fact that we were able to host 15 people in our small home, the weather held up, and there were no injuries is probably not the standard most people use, but for me, it works.
[WOW! This has gotten long. So for those who are bearing with me, I’ll just call this Part I and finish up May in another post…my third for the year!]
Quickie
I've been seriously MIA.
(The blog had been set to private, but I didn't post anything, so it doesn't matter.)
May try to get back into this soon. Life has been crazy. (Understatement.)
(The blog had been set to private, but I didn't post anything, so it doesn't matter.)
May try to get back into this soon. Life has been crazy. (Understatement.)
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Happy Christmahanukwanzaakah!
Part smile, part vent. Part random. All me.
The smile:
I say Happy Holidays. I prefer it that way; until recently, the majority of people in my life were not Christian. OK, so it's politically correct. Whatever - we all know I'm not very PC. I just like the inclusiveness of the term "holidays" and I love that it encompasses more than one day. And I can say it to whomever I want.
The vent:
People implying that my choices in phrasing are wrong...and CORRECTING me on, say, Facebook or email.
I believe how you choose to wish someone well is a personal choice. I say Turkey Day instead of Thanksgiving; in MY world, it's not just a day of thanks. It's a day of family, friends, food, laughter, memories...and maybe a turkey ;) I say Happy HoliDAYS for a few weeks straight. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, sure, say "Merry Christmas!" all you want. But for me it's more of a seasonal thing from mid-November through the first of the year.
............
Sometimes I feel like beliefs are being pushed on me from all different directions. I can't help that I choose to say things to my friends, family, coworkers, and clients that is a little more friendly to ALL of them, if not directly related to each and every one. I just don't understand why some people act (or truly are) offended if I do things differently than they do them...that's part of the beauty of being ME, not someone else!
OK, vent over...HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
And to my favorite Jewish friends and readers...Happy Chanukah! (which, coincidentally, is spelled using the Hebrew letters chet, nun, vav, kaf, hey.
When trying to write a Hebrew word in English, the result is not always clear. Did you know...the right pronunciation of Chanukah is neither "ch", nor "h", but a consonant that doesn't exist in English...and therefore, the spelling debate is a moot point, so long as you can understand the intended meaning.)
The smile:
I say Happy Holidays. I prefer it that way; until recently, the majority of people in my life were not Christian. OK, so it's politically correct. Whatever - we all know I'm not very PC. I just like the inclusiveness of the term "holidays" and I love that it encompasses more than one day. And I can say it to whomever I want.
The vent:
People implying that my choices in phrasing are wrong...and CORRECTING me on, say, Facebook or email.
I believe how you choose to wish someone well is a personal choice. I say Turkey Day instead of Thanksgiving; in MY world, it's not just a day of thanks. It's a day of family, friends, food, laughter, memories...and maybe a turkey ;) I say Happy HoliDAYS for a few weeks straight. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, sure, say "Merry Christmas!" all you want. But for me it's more of a seasonal thing from mid-November through the first of the year.
............
Sometimes I feel like beliefs are being pushed on me from all different directions. I can't help that I choose to say things to my friends, family, coworkers, and clients that is a little more friendly to ALL of them, if not directly related to each and every one. I just don't understand why some people act (or truly are) offended if I do things differently than they do them...that's part of the beauty of being ME, not someone else!
OK, vent over...HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
And to my favorite Jewish friends and readers...Happy Chanukah! (which, coincidentally, is spelled using the Hebrew letters chet, nun, vav, kaf, hey.
When trying to write a Hebrew word in English, the result is not always clear. Did you know...the right pronunciation of Chanukah is neither "ch", nor "h", but a consonant that doesn't exist in English...and therefore, the spelling debate is a moot point, so long as you can understand the intended meaning.)
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Let it be said that this adorable guy above, who frequently drives me nuts, is about as supportive as they come. This time of year is overwhelming, to say the least...peak time for everything that comes in and goes out...and I'm in charge of BOTH. So when I get to the office at 7:30 AM, don't stop for lunch, and am still here well after it's gotten dark outside, I'm never thrilled. I hate to open AND close the office, but I do it, and I work Saturdays on occasion, because it's my job and it's important to me.
I'm not much fun to be around come December. My attitude's a bit "Bah Humbug, get-the-eff-out-of-my-way" to say the least. I'm not a grumpy person, I'm just frazzled!
There's nothing quite like coming home to his smile, bear hug, and kiss hello. I'm not sure he knows how much those little things mean to me. It almost never fails to melt the day's frustrations away...
Mr. P makes me crazy, but I'm also crazy about him :)
(This sporatic blogging is for the birds. I can't wait to get internet at home.)
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Functional BATHROOM!
Nobody ever talks about how hard it can be to actually make decisions.
I never would've thought how difficult it could be to decide on a bathroom together. Mr. P and I have (slowly) begun to mesh our two (rather different) style preferences together...this has NOT been an easy undertaking, to say the least!
Our bathroom is finally (almost) finished. It wouldn't be us if it were actually complete, now, would it?!
You may (or may not) remember the tile we chose for the floor...quite some time ago :) Tile floor, 13"x13" square:
.jpg)
The walls are tiled halfway up with a 6"x8" white tile. We know that 4.25" square tiles are much more common, but we chose to go with something just a bit out of the ordinary...and do a vertical pattern rather than typical horizonal or square. So white tile about halfway up the wall and as an entire shower surround (Mr. P even made a built-in shelf!), the neutral tile on the floor, and the following items have now been installed:
Glass block window (YAY!) was put in place of old, see-through, single hung, rotted wood window with broken counter balance (YUCK).
Toilet and Pedestal sink (both installed quite some time ago):
With this faucet:
Towel bars & TP holder:
(You do NOT want to know the intense discussion that ensued while deciding between a spring-loaded TP holder and a simple ring...but in the end, this one was "FINE" because it curves up a bit and there's "less concern about the TP falling off.")
Medicine Cabinet, but in white (why couldn't I find a picture in white???):
Shower Curtain:
I gave in on the shower curtain. I was prepared to fight for something that I felt was more spa-like, and Mr. P kept pushing much more colorful options. In the grand scheme of things, and in all senses of the phrase "pick your battles," I gave in to the vertical stripes. He has a point - the curtain DOES work with all the towels we currently have. And I've got this concession in my pocket for further renovating/decorating battles ;)
Left to do: cap tiles around the edges of the wall & shower, sand the walls, prime and paint the ceiling (blech!) and walls. Pretty sure I'm going with a light shade of brown...of course I'll be keeping with the Valspar paint in the Earth Elements collection. I'm thinking Dust Storm will be my color of choice, but we'll just have to wait and see...
I never would've thought how difficult it could be to decide on a bathroom together. Mr. P and I have (slowly) begun to mesh our two (rather different) style preferences together...this has NOT been an easy undertaking, to say the least!
Our bathroom is finally (almost) finished. It wouldn't be us if it were actually complete, now, would it?!
You may (or may not) remember the tile we chose for the floor...quite some time ago :) Tile floor, 13"x13" square:
.jpg)
The walls are tiled halfway up with a 6"x8" white tile. We know that 4.25" square tiles are much more common, but we chose to go with something just a bit out of the ordinary...and do a vertical pattern rather than typical horizonal or square. So white tile about halfway up the wall and as an entire shower surround (Mr. P even made a built-in shelf!), the neutral tile on the floor, and the following items have now been installed:
Glass block window (YAY!) was put in place of old, see-through, single hung, rotted wood window with broken counter balance (YUCK).
Toilet and Pedestal sink (both installed quite some time ago):
With this faucet:
Towel bars & TP holder:
(You do NOT want to know the intense discussion that ensued while deciding between a spring-loaded TP holder and a simple ring...but in the end, this one was "FINE" because it curves up a bit and there's "less concern about the TP falling off.")
Medicine Cabinet, but in white (why couldn't I find a picture in white???):
Shower Curtain:
I gave in on the shower curtain. I was prepared to fight for something that I felt was more spa-like, and Mr. P kept pushing much more colorful options. In the grand scheme of things, and in all senses of the phrase "pick your battles," I gave in to the vertical stripes. He has a point - the curtain DOES work with all the towels we currently have. And I've got this concession in my pocket for further renovating/decorating battles ;)
Left to do: cap tiles around the edges of the wall & shower, sand the walls, prime and paint the ceiling (blech!) and walls. Pretty sure I'm going with a light shade of brown...of course I'll be keeping with the Valspar paint in the Earth Elements collection. I'm thinking Dust Storm will be my color of choice, but we'll just have to wait and see...
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Contractor Recommendations - LONG
This post is well-deserved. We've had SO many different contractors to meet with, get bids from, and have work done in such a short time that I've really learned what makes me tick and what makes me swoon with delight when hiring someone to work on the house.
Roof: Mississippi Valley Roofing. 314-838-4451
Without a doubt, the most polite, friendly, and prompt folks out there. We set a date to have the roof done. And then I had to call Brent and reschedule due to the sellers. And then I had to call Brent AGAIN to reschedule. And then, when the sellers wanted to use a no-name "guy they knew," I called Brent yet again to see what we could work out. Based on the fact that their price was almost exactly what the no-name guy bid, and we have a warranty on top of it, and that when we finally got the go-ahead, Brent sent his crew out and they were done with a complete tear-off and re-roof in a single day, AND they cleaned up after themselves (I can't even find a single roofing nail leftover!), these guys are superb.
HVAC:
The owner of this company was wonderful. Polite, charming, willing to work with us. When his crew came out to do the installation, not so much. Two guys; one didn't know he was supposed to work that day, and he showed up after lunch. The first guy clogged our brand new toilet. (This sucker's supposed to be able to flush 20 golf balls; how the hell you clog it, I may never know.) And left the problem in there. Side note: Mr. P had been working on bathroom renovations that morning. Needless to say, he was unable to complete much that afternoon.
The guys did NOT remove our old units; they left them in the basement. Ultimately, the new furnace and air conditioner are in. So while I will not recommend them, I can't trash them completely. At least I can laugh about it now. But I will not give their name as a reference.
Electrical: Reinhold Electric, Inc. 314-631-1158
I have nothing but amazing things to say about everyone we worked with at Reinhold. We had to do some serious electrical updates. Their customer service (over the phone) is great; they know how to handle complicated questions from unknowledgable homeowners. The guy who came out to do our estimate was friendly and super-professional. And the man who came to do the actual work (after we signed the contract) was just as professional. These folks know what they're doing. They take pride in their work. They treat their clients with respect. Reinhold will see us as a return customer, and we will happily refer them to family and friends.
Carpet: Lowe's. (Maplewood location - 314-450-1000)
Lowe's contracts out their installation. That's why I'm including the specific store location in this review. The folks at Lowe's managed to find enough carpet for us in one location. They scheduled the installation with one of their contractors, who drove to pick up all the carpet, showed up, and actually did the job. I'm frustrated that I can't remember his name, but I believe the company was Dynamic something-or-other. Lowe's was great, nothing less than expected. The installer (Mr. Dynamic?) was slower than I had hoped, but took his work seriously. If there was a spot that seemed less than perfect, he took care of fixing it. Very impressed with him.
Plumbing: Gloeckner-Melville Plumbing Co. 314-644-2818
If you remember our kitchen sink situation (mentioned here), you'll know that it was pretty pressing to get it fixed. In addition, we needed to replace the soil stack under the kitchen sink (all the way down to the basement). It was solidly caked all the way through with at least 30 years of grease and other grossness that need not be mentioned. We relied heavily on recommendations, and received some pretty pricy bids. My boss recommended G-M and we decided to give them a shot based on her referral. I'm glad we did. Professional, quick, and well-done. Another happy recommendation.
Down the road, we'll be doing even more to update the house. For now, these were immediate-must-be-done-before-inhabiting situations. Mr. P and I are both learning on our feet; we never expected to gain this much knowledge in such a short time. I'm happy to share what I've learned, what I would and definitely would NOT do again, and what frustrations can turn into good laughs (but only after sufficient time has passed).
I believe (and hope) that tonight is our official move-in night ;)
Roof: Mississippi Valley Roofing. 314-838-4451
Without a doubt, the most polite, friendly, and prompt folks out there. We set a date to have the roof done. And then I had to call Brent and reschedule due to the sellers. And then I had to call Brent AGAIN to reschedule. And then, when the sellers wanted to use a no-name "guy they knew," I called Brent yet again to see what we could work out. Based on the fact that their price was almost exactly what the no-name guy bid, and we have a warranty on top of it, and that when we finally got the go-ahead, Brent sent his crew out and they were done with a complete tear-off and re-roof in a single day, AND they cleaned up after themselves (I can't even find a single roofing nail leftover!), these guys are superb.
HVAC:
The owner of this company was wonderful. Polite, charming, willing to work with us. When his crew came out to do the installation, not so much. Two guys; one didn't know he was supposed to work that day, and he showed up after lunch. The first guy clogged our brand new toilet. (This sucker's supposed to be able to flush 20 golf balls; how the hell you clog it, I may never know.) And left the problem in there. Side note: Mr. P had been working on bathroom renovations that morning. Needless to say, he was unable to complete much that afternoon.
The guys did NOT remove our old units; they left them in the basement. Ultimately, the new furnace and air conditioner are in. So while I will not recommend them, I can't trash them completely. At least I can laugh about it now. But I will not give their name as a reference.
Electrical: Reinhold Electric, Inc. 314-631-1158
I have nothing but amazing things to say about everyone we worked with at Reinhold. We had to do some serious electrical updates. Their customer service (over the phone) is great; they know how to handle complicated questions from unknowledgable homeowners. The guy who came out to do our estimate was friendly and super-professional. And the man who came to do the actual work (after we signed the contract) was just as professional. These folks know what they're doing. They take pride in their work. They treat their clients with respect. Reinhold will see us as a return customer, and we will happily refer them to family and friends.
Carpet: Lowe's. (Maplewood location - 314-450-1000)
Lowe's contracts out their installation. That's why I'm including the specific store location in this review. The folks at Lowe's managed to find enough carpet for us in one location. They scheduled the installation with one of their contractors, who drove to pick up all the carpet, showed up, and actually did the job. I'm frustrated that I can't remember his name, but I believe the company was Dynamic something-or-other. Lowe's was great, nothing less than expected. The installer (Mr. Dynamic?) was slower than I had hoped, but took his work seriously. If there was a spot that seemed less than perfect, he took care of fixing it. Very impressed with him.
Plumbing: Gloeckner-Melville Plumbing Co. 314-644-2818
If you remember our kitchen sink situation (mentioned here), you'll know that it was pretty pressing to get it fixed. In addition, we needed to replace the soil stack under the kitchen sink (all the way down to the basement). It was solidly caked all the way through with at least 30 years of grease and other grossness that need not be mentioned. We relied heavily on recommendations, and received some pretty pricy bids. My boss recommended G-M and we decided to give them a shot based on her referral. I'm glad we did. Professional, quick, and well-done. Another happy recommendation.
Down the road, we'll be doing even more to update the house. For now, these were immediate-must-be-done-before-inhabiting situations. Mr. P and I are both learning on our feet; we never expected to gain this much knowledge in such a short time. I'm happy to share what I've learned, what I would and definitely would NOT do again, and what frustrations can turn into good laughs (but only after sufficient time has passed).
I believe (and hope) that tonight is our official move-in night ;)
Monday, November 2, 2009
w00t!
As of THIS VERY MINUTE, we have been granted conditional occupancy. We have 90 days to do a couple of final things, but we are allowed to LIVE in OUR HOUSE starting right now!
I.am.exhausted.
And I need to buy a shower curtain :)
I.am.exhausted.
And I need to buy a shower curtain :)
Friday, October 30, 2009
BIG(ish) News!
Our re-inspection is scheduled for Monday...we could potentially be living in OUR OWN HOME as soon as Monday night!
That is all. Keep your fingers crossed for us ;)
That is all. Keep your fingers crossed for us ;)
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Super Easy Crockpot Meal!
I'm not much of a crockpotter...this was actually my first foray into the world of crockpot cooking. And the result was a completely empty pot :)
I picked this up from another blog, and I'm ashamed to admit that I don't remember whose it was! I think it was called Salsa Chicken, but my attempt and a couple of additions led me to modify the name.
Creamy Salsa Chicken:
4 frozen chicken breasts
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup salsa
1 green pepper, chopped
1/2 packet taco seasoning
1 cup sour cream
salt and pepper
shredded cheese
extra salsa
Put frozen chicken, soup, salsa, green pepper, and seasonings into crockpot. Cook on low 5-7 hours (I think mine was more like 8 or so, but that's what work does to recipes).
Just before serving, mix in sour cream. Serve over rice with shredded cheese and extra salsa, if desired. The rice really absorbs a lot of the juices, and it was extremely delicious ;)
Changes/ideas for future:
~ serve with jalapenos on top
~ mix rice into crockpot and scoop into tortillas
~ add an onion
Other ideas? I'd love to hear them. And now that I know I'm capable of crockpotting, keep the (easy and simple) recipes coming my way!
I picked this up from another blog, and I'm ashamed to admit that I don't remember whose it was! I think it was called Salsa Chicken, but my attempt and a couple of additions led me to modify the name.
Creamy Salsa Chicken:
4 frozen chicken breasts
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup salsa
1 green pepper, chopped
1/2 packet taco seasoning
1 cup sour cream
salt and pepper
shredded cheese
extra salsa
Put frozen chicken, soup, salsa, green pepper, and seasonings into crockpot. Cook on low 5-7 hours (I think mine was more like 8 or so, but that's what work does to recipes).
Just before serving, mix in sour cream. Serve over rice with shredded cheese and extra salsa, if desired. The rice really absorbs a lot of the juices, and it was extremely delicious ;)
Changes/ideas for future:
~ serve with jalapenos on top
~ mix rice into crockpot and scoop into tortillas
~ add an onion
Other ideas? I'd love to hear them. And now that I know I'm capable of crockpotting, keep the (easy and simple) recipes coming my way!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Small updates
OK, so we're still not moved in yet. Getting antsy, frustrated, and worn out. We're so close, bust just not quite there. All of our stuff is moved in, practically everything we own (minus a few outfits, shoes, and a dog) is already in place. But we've got about one full day's worth of tiling left to do, and weekends are incredibly busy.
In other news, last week our new couches were delivered. Much smaller than our older ones (which are still in great condition if you're interested in buying them!), and fit much better in the space.
Here's the stock photo that I split up in the previous post:
The pillows that came with the furniture have just enough green in them...we'll stick with them for now. I guess our living room is more brown and green than any real blue (except the area rug).
The rug is there. I wish we could have gone with a larger version, but I'm happy enough for now. I'm still looking for the right curtains...but technically our living room is good to go.
I guess EVERYTHING is good to go, except for having full use of the shower, which is our setback right now. And for anyone who's done any tiling, you know it's just not an option to do a little bit at a time. It's a time-consuming project, a small space, and a whole lot of tedious attention.
As soon as that's done, we should finally be moving in to OUR home. I'm ready. And on a positive note, at the very least, we know we've added quite a bit of value to the house already. It was in such serious need of help that even just a fresh coat of paint was helpful, but some of our simple renovations thus far are well worth the time and heartache involved.
In other news, last week our new couches were delivered. Much smaller than our older ones (which are still in great condition if you're interested in buying them!), and fit much better in the space.
Here's the stock photo that I split up in the previous post:
The pillows that came with the furniture have just enough green in them...we'll stick with them for now. I guess our living room is more brown and green than any real blue (except the area rug).
The rug is there. I wish we could have gone with a larger version, but I'm happy enough for now. I'm still looking for the right curtains...but technically our living room is good to go.
I guess EVERYTHING is good to go, except for having full use of the shower, which is our setback right now. And for anyone who's done any tiling, you know it's just not an option to do a little bit at a time. It's a time-consuming project, a small space, and a whole lot of tedious attention.
As soon as that's done, we should finally be moving in to OUR home. I'm ready. And on a positive note, at the very least, we know we've added quite a bit of value to the house already. It was in such serious need of help that even just a fresh coat of paint was helpful, but some of our simple renovations thus far are well worth the time and heartache involved.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Long time no blog :)
Just a short, sweet intro back into blog-world. Haven't been here in over a month now! Lots of crazy to be shared at a later date.
Meanwhile, my very first ATTEMPT at some sort of design board. I swear by nothing :) But here's a glimpse of what we're going for in our living room:
Not my best work ever, but a start, nonetheless. Ready for another busy weekend ahead...
Meanwhile, my very first ATTEMPT at some sort of design board. I swear by nothing :) But here's a glimpse of what we're going for in our living room:
Not my best work ever, but a start, nonetheless. Ready for another busy weekend ahead...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
