tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9483791423055309982023-11-16T01:06:28.989-05:00Dunkirk Disambiguation:Building Our Ryan Homes DunkirkWelcome to our blog about building a Ryan Homes Dunkirk in the Villages of Winding Creek community in Springboro/Centerville, Ohio!Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-41305936560974616442018-07-17T22:54:00.000-04:002018-07-17T22:54:26.660-04:00Patio! Patio! Patio!It's finally time! Tomorrow starts the next major we've had on our to-do list since we moved in over two years ago - a patio! The crew from Pavers by Design will start work on our 27th (and final) revision of our plan for something in our back yard. It's been quite an ordeal.<br />
Initially, we had plans for a deck. A simple deck. Isn't that how everything starts to go bad? We knew we didn't want the standard Ryan homes deck, but we didn't want something huge either. Our initial thought was something like this:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhui6lxYzUsvnOx3nn5Fwa2S8FMKS0ng-8VVyeQfaVVMBVaDgBXzgcR-txFh9lzBR1CGB8MkcwGaLULX3WjWqY5d4o5VxWPQIGSbLdsV5YKEuie8PQQxhLRftuActVW9LqroY9KYK5qR9jw/s1600/Deck+Idea+v3+FINAL+-+altview+0+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="916" data-original-width="1524" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhui6lxYzUsvnOx3nn5Fwa2S8FMKS0ng-8VVyeQfaVVMBVaDgBXzgcR-txFh9lzBR1CGB8MkcwGaLULX3WjWqY5d4o5VxWPQIGSbLdsV5YKEuie8PQQxhLRftuActVW9LqroY9KYK5qR9jw/s400/Deck+Idea+v3+FINAL+-+altview+0+.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our starting point</td></tr>
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We wanted an open, unobstructed gateway to the yard, without railings, drop-offs or anything that would impede the flow of traffic. I'm not sure why having a catwalk extending into the yard was our initial plan, but there it was.<br />
The problem with a deck was that in order for it to fit our primary requirement of minimal maintenance, it would have to be made of some kind of composite material - we didn't want wood we'd have to stain every year or two. Yes, we are just that lazy. Another problem is that our final grade meant the primary level of the deck would only be about 14 inches off the ground. It seemed a little ridiculous to build a deck that was going to be that close the ground.<br />
Those concerns pushed us to consider a patio. And so we did. I sketched up many variations, some curvy, some rectangular - just about every shape you could image. However, the size of iteration kept increasing - and then we started thinking about materials. Stamped concrete was our first choice - maybe something that resembled wood. By now we were up to around 1,000 square feet - and we weren't prepared for the cost.<br />
So we started redesigning and shrinking our plans. But we still had an issue. Due to all of the construction, getting someone to 1) give us an estimate and 2) actually schedule the work, proved to be more challenging that we expected. Concrete contractors seem to only do these projects on the side and really prefer to do foundations and driveways. At this point, we'd pretty much given up on a patio for the near future and resigned ourselves to living with the pea gravel we'd put down to cover up the mud for a few more years.<br />
Then our neighbors mentioned they were considering a paver patio and we wondered if we piggy-backed off them, maybe we could both get a break on the cost. Sure enough, we found a paver installer who was willing to work with us and give a small break on the cost. Here's the design that we finally settled on:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE7AXyqDY4f-bJUg60SPsWtS-LkhxAoOTTreFPr1ObCChywYupMJimEK8ezlRBDGe_dWGlNmavAV8dGFofJd5HvwfJTotOFKpLaxhV_y_5o6G_4T5NM41vzWek_XdFCnQtZw2sS2jxIYP1/s1600/Patio+%2526+Pergola+-+Option+C+-+Labels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="976" data-original-width="1572" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE7AXyqDY4f-bJUg60SPsWtS-LkhxAoOTTreFPr1ObCChywYupMJimEK8ezlRBDGe_dWGlNmavAV8dGFofJd5HvwfJTotOFKpLaxhV_y_5o6G_4T5NM41vzWek_XdFCnQtZw2sS2jxIYP1/s400/Patio+%2526+Pergola+-+Option+C+-+Labels.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our teardrop design</td></tr>
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It's not huge, but it should provide us with something better than pea gravel, which is sure to disappoint the cats who have spent many a night playing with the small stones that inevitably found they're way into the house. We wound up a little under 500 square feet, but we figure it can easily be expanded if our wants and means change in the future. The pavers we chose are from <a href="http://www.cambridgepavers.com/pavingstones-sherwood" target="_blank">Cambridge</a>, part of their Sherwood Collection - the Ledgestone 3 Pc. Design Kit in Sandstone.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSf6F24SJzWR8RQcdim4-HLS6BQG_ekEEveDxMUOjSVG4dS-tiapkdTm53oYMPxJtJNWMQx5WvZeKST06WXFmIEfvytpXnV4g5HwSTLViCb0ZI_DC7OGKGPNYiLdiD2ut6H5n_ECk6PoUZ/s1600/color_lg_Sandstone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="75" data-original-width="150" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSf6F24SJzWR8RQcdim4-HLS6BQG_ekEEveDxMUOjSVG4dS-tiapkdTm53oYMPxJtJNWMQx5WvZeKST06WXFmIEfvytpXnV4g5HwSTLViCb0ZI_DC7OGKGPNYiLdiD2ut6H5n_ECk6PoUZ/s400/color_lg_Sandstone.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ledgestone 3 Pc. Design Kit in Sandstone</td></tr>
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Tomorrow is going to be a great day!Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12640405471747358438noreply@blogger.com09700 Crooked Creek Dr, Dayton, OH 45458, USA39.5768460871902 -84.15428908144531339.5707265871902 -84.164374081445317 39.582965587190195 -84.144204081445309tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-12459569854757704412017-12-20T18:38:00.000-05:002017-12-20T18:38:44.981-05:00Project: Mud Room Arrival CenterYes, the length between posts increases exponentially with each day that passes from closing. I'd love to promise that I'll work on that, but that would require a lot of work. And writing. And I'm lazy.<div>
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Just in time for the holidays, I dove in to tack one of the bigger projects on our list - our mudroom. Those of you with a Dunkirk (or those considering a Dunkirk), know that the mudroom is really a great space. It's just off the garage making it a prime entryway into the house. It's really good size and it already has a closet. There's an optional arrival center that Ryan Homes offers, but its really basic and we didn't think it would be a good use of the space, so we didn't opt in for it. </div>
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Having live in the space for more than a year (almost two, gasp!), our wants and needs have changed a little. We now have two cats and nowhere to hide the litter box. I considered putting a door in the wall next to the stairs so we could at least put it in the basement, but I don't like holes in walls. That seemed to be asking for trouble.</div>
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As we kept looking at the space in the mud room, we thought, why couldn't we put it somewhere in here? But I refused to consider putting it in the closet - I have no desire to wear coats that smell like cat poop. Then we thought about adding something to our yet-to-be-built-custom-and-completely-imaginary arrival center. So I set about sketching something up - literally, using SketchUp Make. I stole parts of the design from a 2011 blog post on <a href="https://acharmingnest.blogspot.com/2011/07/mudroom-storage-reveal.html" target="_blank">A Charming Nest</a>, so I feel obliged to link to them.</div>
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Here's what we've come up with - warning, I had some extra sheets of 3/4 plywood so I designed it to use as much of them as possible. At least it's going to be sturdy. Really, really sturdy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6klEymraBM-kgAEk0c3aRC0IO2y9j-qDOBB8M0-soweubEhB6eRtc59x_MOQexpZ_ZeJqD5xpcd7YSfWSuB1ufPhyphenhyphenKwq_3BldsFEvu7ZXR6HkAiEppgnU8zUgRs-NxT5e9fgI2v2Wd_n/s1600/Mud+Room+Storage+v1.033+-+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="976" data-original-width="1572" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6klEymraBM-kgAEk0c3aRC0IO2y9j-qDOBB8M0-soweubEhB6eRtc59x_MOQexpZ_ZeJqD5xpcd7YSfWSuB1ufPhyphenhyphenKwq_3BldsFEvu7ZXR6HkAiEppgnU8zUgRs-NxT5e9fgI2v2Wd_n/s640/Mud+Room+Storage+v1.033+-+Front.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Instead of having a bench go all the way across, I put a rectangular, enclosed table in the corner to hold...wait for it...a litter box! The top of the table is actually a lid that will open to allow access for cleaning and there will be a entry hole somewhere to allow the cats to enter. I haven't fully decided on the best location for the hole - I like the idea of it being somewhat hidden, but that would put it somewhere under the bench which means that we can't use the cubby next to the table for shoes. If I put it in the front, it sort of destroys the goal of keeping the litter box hidden. Right now, I 'm leaning toward somewhere in the front, but I'll post a picture when it's actually done an installed.</div>
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Currently, I have the bench and table all cut and dry fit. Tomorrow, I'll begin the installation and trim work. The shelves and the rest of the upper portion will have to wait until after Christmas. Altogether this project will probably cost about $600-700 including paint and the 3/4 plywood. </div>
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Anyone else have ideas for how to use the mud room space in their Dunkirk? </div>
Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Stone Creek Blvd, Dayton, OH 45458, USA39.576039846049191 -84.15641069412231439.574509846049189 -84.158932194122315 39.577569846049194 -84.153889194122314tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-14099323183649986942017-06-19T22:36:00.000-04:002017-06-19T22:36:24.556-04:00A Work In Progress....Yes, the updates have gotten sparse. That's the joy of a new home - all the new projects that come with it! Somewhere along the line, I'd convinced myself that moving to a new, new house I would shed all of those nagging tasks and have a blank to-do list.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Don't believe it. Not for one second.</span></b><br />
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While a new house is new and the list has many more "wants" than "needs" - it starts growing immediately. Currently we have many wants, in no particular order:<br />
<ul>
<li>A Pool<br />Yes, our community has a pool. Yes, it's only a block away. Yes, a pool means more work. Yes, it means a reassessment and probably more taxes. Yes, yes, yes. We know all the reasons we shouldn't want one, but we still do. </li>
<li>Landscaping<br />Even though Ryan Homes supplies some basic landscaping, we want more. Yes, I'm struggling to keep grass alive and mowed. Yes, it just means more weeding, pruning and toiling in the never-ending struggle to keep things looking nice. But parts of this are actually bordering on more of a need. We have a drainage ditch that runs across the back of our property line - it looks horrible. I'd post a picture, but I'm too ashamed. It's been over a year and we simply haven't made any significant progress - but we're developing an idea, that counts, right?<br /><br />We plan on doing a dry (unless it's pouring down rain) creek bed along the bottom of the ditch, then mulching up the far side. We'd like some large landscaping rocks to give it a more natural feel and, of course, plants. Lots of plants. Trees, grasses, flowers (hopefully the perennial kind that require minimal work but look gorgeous all year long - do they even exist?) and anything else I don't have to mow. Initial estimates from contractors were in the $6-9k range, which seems ridiculous for a DIYer (or at least an aspiring one). Plus, we need to finalize a plan and get the ever-crucial HOA approval. Ugh, work that requires more work - my nemesis.</li>
<li>The Garage<br />We didn't opt for the home office and as a result I have a nice little niche in the garage for storage. I've started my plan to make use of all of that space. I subscribe to Family Handyman (thanks Dad!) and a while back they did an article on a <a href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/garage/storage/customizable-garage-storage/view-all" target="_blank">garage storage using french cleats</a>. I love the idea of not having to buy a proprietary "system" just to store stuff (and pay lots of money for). I also love the flexibility it offered - being able to move things just seems like a great idea!<br /><br />Here's the general idea I came up with:<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7h3pXzkHjxdsA9uEETetVe5RBwMuexDBlyWjwL6InpsycWm3KT47gi4svWptsvFn6wNFj01U014qGnfJYQ-ht7d_C_07YPSIP5Wq22CMbcEGMDyoqJblaneErK8cm1DKPFh-2boRs0s8K/s1600/Garage+Storage+v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1570" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7h3pXzkHjxdsA9uEETetVe5RBwMuexDBlyWjwL6InpsycWm3KT47gi4svWptsvFn6wNFj01U014qGnfJYQ-ht7d_C_07YPSIP5Wq22CMbcEGMDyoqJblaneErK8cm1DKPFh-2boRs0s8K/s400/Garage+Storage+v1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garage shelving and french cleats for flexible storage</td></tr>
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Here's what I have so far:<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMcZyQgf_JVEV87IMciBSfi8zhIbCDyQC7YSOytoXJS4aQhzeo88XkoFYRGqpQYU41ekk4x4R22tSAEvbZC1utzzI8DOTgNMD89eA2Dtl5n-gru1n0gwaudLpw0hF2u6RLJYxqiYPrpMP/s1600/IMG_1225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="629" data-original-width="839" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMcZyQgf_JVEV87IMciBSfi8zhIbCDyQC7YSOytoXJS4aQhzeo88XkoFYRGqpQYU41ekk4x4R22tSAEvbZC1utzzI8DOTgNMD89eA2Dtl5n-gru1n0gwaudLpw0hF2u6RLJYxqiYPrpMP/s400/IMG_1225.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garage in progress</td></tr>
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So far it's working great, except ripping down sheets of 3/4 plywood is a real struggle! I've realized, I need many, many more hooks.<br /><br />I did finish my rolling workbench. That was a born-of-necessity project when I realized I needed a larger space to work than the small workbench I'd planned as part of my shelves. I threw together a work table on casters that I can move around as needed (and store out of the way when it isn't!). It isn't large, the base is 3'x3' with a 4' square top, but it's been one of the best things I've ever built! (For actual use, not beauty....it definitely isn't pretty.)<br /><br />My plan is to finish painting the rest of the garage walls and continue putting up the french cleats just as fast as I can rip them down. Then I'm going to hang every damn thing in the garage that I can.<br /><br />See how the to-do list grows?</li>
<li>Mud Room<br />We didn't really like the basic look of the cubbies in the mud room that Ryan Homes offered. We wanted something a little more useful, larger, pretty, etc. That means I'm building them. But I need to get the garage sorted out first - I'm still unpacking tools! </li>
<li>Weathered Side Table for the Great Room<br />The great room in the Dunkirk is huge. Absolutely huge. It caught us by surprise and we simply can't find a side table long enough to not look ridiculous. So I'm going to make one - keeping with our beach-theme design scheme of course. This also has to wait for the garage so I have somewhere to work!</li>
<li>Pantry Storage<br />I so want to build custom shelves in the pantry - the included wire shelves are pitiful and there's so much more space that could be used. I'd love to find a way to put a rolling ladder (they're not just for libraries!) to really make use of the high ceilings and all the space up there!</li>
<li>Speakers in the Master Bath and Great Room<br />Darn you Sonos for being so expensive! I just can't justify until some of these other projects are done!</li>
<li>Patio<br />Yes, we still don't have a concrete patio. We did cover up our mud with a healthy layer of pebbles, but we've change our minds fifty times about the size, shape, type and virtually every other characteristic of our to-be patio. </li>
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Ugh! I could go on and on and on... Maybe I should focus on what I've accomplished? Ceiling fans, check. Um...I think that's it. <div>
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Maybe I've been slacking a little too much around the house. Maybe I'm just enjoying the fact that we LOVE our house. Maybe I'll just bask in that a while longer and let the list grow!</div>
Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Stone Creek Blvd, Dayton, OH 45458, USA39.5764367842449 -84.15529489517211939.574906784244895 -84.157816395172119 39.5779667842449 -84.152773395172119tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-33786990308794587262016-08-30T22:42:00.000-04:002016-08-30T22:42:11.634-04:00Oops!Sorry to anyone who might have noticed that this blog went dark for a while - I was changing domain name registrars and forgot about a couple of settings.<div>
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Hopefully, things should be back to normal!</div>
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As far as the house goes, we're still settling in, but there are more projects and posts coming this fall! </div>
Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-41573118053971461742016-04-18T18:00:00.000-04:002016-04-18T22:11:54.745-04:00It's Good to Touch the Green, Green Grass of HomeWhile I've got nothing on <a href="https://youtu.be/_EvUHnm43wY" target="_blank">Tom Jones</a>, I most certainly have some green, green grass at my home! First thing this morning, when what to my wondering eyes should appear but a not-so-miniature truck from <a href="http://hendersonturf.com/" target="_blank">Henderson Turf Farms</a>! <a href="http://greenproservicesinc.com/" target="_blank">GreenPro</a> wasn't far behind with their truck full of tools, trees, plants, sod and shovels!<br />
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(Am I overdoing it with the exclamation marks?)<br />
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It's a very exciting day here at the MonkShack, where we are going from dusty brown to glorious green all in the span of a few hours. A few hours where all I have to do is watch. Glorious.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJB7_MlkjnVOEo3qDu4U3TZYLivKKbQuOgMAvJWpCzbtpkcwLbQBYBWHugJYfHyWRrigizoNp-nnM0T3EOFS2K1toYhA4TdiGuRmmRepld-PnCMF7q2eF1Uq7_r6Pb_fIQ6oQyj8fpVmt/s1600/26235354850_57e8e0f5ac_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJB7_MlkjnVOEo3qDu4U3TZYLivKKbQuOgMAvJWpCzbtpkcwLbQBYBWHugJYfHyWRrigizoNp-nnM0T3EOFS2K1toYhA4TdiGuRmmRepld-PnCMF7q2eF1Uq7_r6Pb_fIQ6oQyj8fpVmt/s640/26235354850_57e8e0f5ac_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good morning grass!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-TRia7le3zqg1UmWjVCpDAiRUrdTo0xKwTWLZEmYKNgZw6GSSPNsX1umyKSYoJLbqGZ-ppTn1Di7IsOftV0lcx7Z-kVnBqyARWmsY8wjeVDGOBg1H7wRmuq-5yA2j5TU45udbUulpl235/s1600/26415856402_ab949f97aa_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-TRia7le3zqg1UmWjVCpDAiRUrdTo0xKwTWLZEmYKNgZw6GSSPNsX1umyKSYoJLbqGZ-ppTn1Di7IsOftV0lcx7Z-kVnBqyARWmsY8wjeVDGOBg1H7wRmuq-5yA2j5TU45udbUulpl235/s640/26415856402_ab949f97aa_o.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello plants!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NTpiVhJRpev8XSqLT2g2rl1cHogTzT80oAkhiD5JtMFtYrCobYMNKph-425rb9k0iqk3H58W4ZbEb3HJ8wIwQmUNo_Ky-4yV1veSOicCuAMYxLC0VScFlOJQ7uBfTnqtuYE_ec8QQQXF/s1600/25905343853_981a26a96f_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NTpiVhJRpev8XSqLT2g2rl1cHogTzT80oAkhiD5JtMFtYrCobYMNKph-425rb9k0iqk3H58W4ZbEb3HJ8wIwQmUNo_Ky-4yV1veSOicCuAMYxLC0VScFlOJQ7uBfTnqtuYE_ec8QQQXF/s640/25905343853_981a26a96f_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marvelous mulch and our saved stones!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUhOZW57FQ1XUci31mbStvECxvHlRvZRFLPksl9hwyvkXxElENLSKsvsP2_mq1Av1hQGB1QH6cP4uQvwoV-zpQs7uZ7tZfzrKil0AXqLACC60YUsm5e_UJ0LGdPzUq4rjDc-d3nxabu9NN/s1600/26482236176_c1c5581231_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUhOZW57FQ1XUci31mbStvECxvHlRvZRFLPksl9hwyvkXxElENLSKsvsP2_mq1Av1hQGB1QH6cP4uQvwoV-zpQs7uZ7tZfzrKil0AXqLACC60YUsm5e_UJ0LGdPzUq4rjDc-d3nxabu9NN/s640/26482236176_c1c5581231_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first strip of sod!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHyMRHKa5AuRZo-Be1K4kd5FYVqch294zA1grcbOenCMOrPwBMHpl9JkL2TdKLKCt4Q6NvkczEkNitNS5HzGqIfhJqNIB4zGf_HpCoeIQyUlTZn8-FQOtaYoqUoV-ebXdsjuhMdotiTi0/s1600/26415855442_45cebc7570_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHyMRHKa5AuRZo-Be1K4kd5FYVqch294zA1grcbOenCMOrPwBMHpl9JkL2TdKLKCt4Q6NvkczEkNitNS5HzGqIfhJqNIB4zGf_HpCoeIQyUlTZn8-FQOtaYoqUoV-ebXdsjuhMdotiTi0/s640/26415855442_45cebc7570_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greening the backyard!</td></tr>
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We were able to re-use some of the rocks that had adorned our lot as accent pieces for the landscaping. GreenPro was great about working with us and moving them around until we found their final resting places. We also moved the magnolia-ish bush a little further out from the house (when I say we, I really mean they) because I wanted things a little more spread out.<br />
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I was a bit surprised that we didn't have a choice in the greenery - the trees and plants just showed up. Neither of us recall making any decisions about the type of plants that would be planted - and if we had, we probably wouldn't have chosen the Bradford pear that now calls our front yard home. Minor complaints - all overshadowed by the glorious green grass that now covers our lot!<br />
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At the same time, Rich was frantically working to fix our egress window shell that had started to cave in on one side. You have to love a man who works miracles under pressure and never stops smiling! Couldn't be happier with the way everything turned out today!<br />
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Want to see the finished product? Here it is!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu8iPvq0VOnGvhXq-l3WzYqs4YXLznaubNsswcObvEI_3VldF2d73y68Ml-z2Qy43H9KFvgRz9y7vz53drKBBj64sQVChz5nV-Rs3ljHRBm5DxO5wP6eVQqjHEKXGoCTTQHXHZY5l_qXEL/s1600/IMG_0393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu8iPvq0VOnGvhXq-l3WzYqs4YXLznaubNsswcObvEI_3VldF2d73y68Ml-z2Qy43H9KFvgRz9y7vz53drKBBj64sQVChz5nV-Rs3ljHRBm5DxO5wP6eVQqjHEKXGoCTTQHXHZY5l_qXEL/s640/IMG_0393.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard (yes, the deck is missing - you're very observant)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMQjrZ6tny5norXYpV7hoKcjD7RoRlr3zMRlY373hW_Qp3D6k5lpPHb6ySopG3XNcpwy234416NfnatIH8T7lS9OU8DEbsJMoUIY2lGWp-aOSBnZBqZYmRlhuMGWhoOCHqBIfOq0fNoToc/s1600/IMG_0395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMQjrZ6tny5norXYpV7hoKcjD7RoRlr3zMRlY373hW_Qp3D6k5lpPHb6ySopG3XNcpwy234416NfnatIH8T7lS9OU8DEbsJMoUIY2lGWp-aOSBnZBqZYmRlhuMGWhoOCHqBIfOq0fNoToc/s640/IMG_0395.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side yard</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIp1GrmDdwdxAXHMgcUSbFNh-J0MbCLewUsLr-sjcVBcLa577FXgStxM8AXAW17UL-CCzCU2bI1VPQDZ-V91EjrLO34QbFMbm9h-eRK4d3mVDOprJWKt4IMRAO4zZA-Q2vq4ggMazirpa2/s1600/IMG_0398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIp1GrmDdwdxAXHMgcUSbFNh-J0MbCLewUsLr-sjcVBcLa577FXgStxM8AXAW17UL-CCzCU2bI1VPQDZ-V91EjrLO34QbFMbm9h-eRK4d3mVDOprJWKt4IMRAO4zZA-Q2vq4ggMazirpa2/s640/IMG_0398.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TADA! The front yard in all it's green glory!</td></tr>
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<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.5765380823149 -84.15528147931513639.575008082314895 -84.157802979315136 39.5780680823149 -84.152759979315135tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-4166193710124266032016-04-06T19:51:00.001-04:002016-04-06T19:51:21.775-04:00Is That Green on the Horizon?Just let me say how sick I am of dirt. Piles of dirt. Muddy yucky gross dirt. We've been surrounded by a dirt moat for the last two and half months - but maybe, just maybe, the end is in sight.<br />
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Take a look at what just happened!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCiv_GRhWs1jvrqfoSc70jc2QnT7wBQB-8QHPtMVyYcBs86lcWxUpriN1XphS4DEWSbI_cYVHYnStD9YkjvSfc_SPDtj74LQtv4D-ovQ8hdl9FiDAf3fab_EzHueLFXIkKIaNtKRQHTwA/s1600/26279847445_331f5f6cb0_o+%2528Large%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCiv_GRhWs1jvrqfoSc70jc2QnT7wBQB-8QHPtMVyYcBs86lcWxUpriN1XphS4DEWSbI_cYVHYnStD9YkjvSfc_SPDtj74LQtv4D-ovQ8hdl9FiDAf3fab_EzHueLFXIkKIaNtKRQHTwA/s640/26279847445_331f5f6cb0_o+%2528Large%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MISSING: One big, ugly pile of dirt.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEjKpZ7phxrimPrEJvlYomoVQrf3GYLJhodHpO0yE-jSYiCqSMAiMGk9nBWnho0OzxvLUC16DZjSYhtBQ99gSFyw9S0-7HORDnX79OjRRyTI20_ccC8f3Qb56AUB6QAa8W0NDyaaQPR_Qs/s1600/25675013894_5d4a723c60_o+%2528Large%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEjKpZ7phxrimPrEJvlYomoVQrf3GYLJhodHpO0yE-jSYiCqSMAiMGk9nBWnho0OzxvLUC16DZjSYhtBQ99gSFyw9S0-7HORDnX79OjRRyTI20_ccC8f3Qb56AUB6QAa8W0NDyaaQPR_Qs/s640/25675013894_5d4a723c60_o+%2528Large%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FOUND: One crap-ton of rocks. Big rocks, little rocks. All kinds of rocks. </td></tr>
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Since some of the rocks that have graced our site are about the size of the iceberg that sank the Titanic (I'm exaggerating, of course), we decided to try to save some of them for landscape accents. I am pretty sure the didn't realize how many of them would be uncovered in this process.<br />
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In other landscape news, we have been in touch with GreenPro - the local contractor who performs the final grade and landscaping - for about the last two weeks negotiating the price to sod most of the backyard. Yes, we are THAT sick of dirt. And the thought of having to deal with straw and seed for the upcoming summer makes us want to gag. So we're going to cover all with luscious green wavy grass. Extra money? Sure - but grass is green too, it's an acceptable trade - and the cost is much less than it would be if we waited to do it later.<br />
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I say almost because we are opting out of sodding last twenty feet of our yard that is part of the drainage easement where seed has already been planted and seems to be doing just fine. It's a drain - do we really need sod there? We're also building a deck, so I decided not to lay sod that we'd just be ripping up in a month or so.<br />
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Here's the SketchUp version of the deck - don't laugh, remember I'm not an architect:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqLhR7-Vlfp_SNlmG7L59z-M-OzpFo1t1jZ-rCd6TKYRH8vI4Vi3RvFSl4xvg6Y4rXNKmFx_TDpYfBMr_ExJbRBA2BDBaIi67RzIoN-_OL9F9bfZwcC75ODc1sXKlnqPW7f67sB9VGDlw/s1600/Deck+Idea+v3+FINAL+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqLhR7-Vlfp_SNlmG7L59z-M-OzpFo1t1jZ-rCd6TKYRH8vI4Vi3RvFSl4xvg6Y4rXNKmFx_TDpYfBMr_ExJbRBA2BDBaIi67RzIoN-_OL9F9bfZwcC75ODc1sXKlnqPW7f67sB9VGDlw/s640/Deck+Idea+v3+FINAL+.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our planned deck</td></tr>
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Out key concepts were multi-level and no railings. We also are trying to find the happy space between having a deck that is too large or too small. This version has steps all around that flow the deck into the yard. The 10x12 foot lower level is a step down and we think we might add a white pergola over it at some point. This summer, we're only doing the deck. We haven't decided on pavers or concrete, but either way, we want to wait until the ground around the house settles before we do the hardscape.<br />
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In short, PROGRESS! We are finally closing in on being done with the big projects and soon we'll be able to only focus on the little fun projects - like organizing the garage. Doesn't that sound like a blast?<br />
<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576488465237254 -84.15536731000361239.574958465237252 -84.157888810003612 39.578018465237257 -84.152845810003612tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-84876280303421351112016-03-15T18:30:00.000-04:002016-03-15T18:30:09.094-04:00Let's All Sing the Driveway Song!If I actually knew a driveway song, trust me, I would be singing it right now. They've just started digging out for our driveway including our expansion and additional side pad! After going the last few weeks with only gravel and dirt, we are very excited about having a solid concrete surface!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRjQlKp59XIcAlH4NYLJ4FKK7_vqpgrCAK4RV47RvLzE9lPWFyMUeIuOR82n6JaGZR8A2oipIe3UyvUaVbbrbEVaTXrVkBMBigahnRPmvhkilw93ARAl09BPvfv89lZG9TXIqUYizYOBA/s1600/IMG_0372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRjQlKp59XIcAlH4NYLJ4FKK7_vqpgrCAK4RV47RvLzE9lPWFyMUeIuOR82n6JaGZR8A2oipIe3UyvUaVbbrbEVaTXrVkBMBigahnRPmvhkilw93ARAl09BPvfv89lZG9TXIqUYizYOBA/s640/IMG_0372.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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In anticipation of this day, we actually submitted plans to our HOA to expand our driveway and add a parking pad. Hopefully expanding the driveway will allow us to get out of a car parked in the driveway in the winter without having to step in the snow. Adding a parking pad just gives us a little more flexibility in parking since we weren't able to add the three-car garage option.</div>
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Here are our plans that were approved:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUKonfSGEmPSFRRcZeFLqLH-YTJY9eEzns6039MIcI56QtC1in5eDQaJsiq4cxD4qYxJEKwvuqqLnfUtnhptj_SF-TKfelsjsXoUL7ag9ow-slpgKf2gIYRmnMRd1ugToGNQA_qP3CkJFi/s1600/IMG_0364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUKonfSGEmPSFRRcZeFLqLH-YTJY9eEzns6039MIcI56QtC1in5eDQaJsiq4cxD4qYxJEKwvuqqLnfUtnhptj_SF-TKfelsjsXoUL7ag9ow-slpgKf2gIYRmnMRd1ugToGNQA_qP3CkJFi/s640/IMG_0364.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Driveway Expansion</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM55rJoE6t3WS038U7kAuHuSGDGUt8TbkXUBFEFzp1rDkQ_h7VPw7T07N5OaVIVRHnFxYwB_PPSHRy1LmW-LSS5BQmphe0cE03sl0kONPdw_gTJWs7d5S3hwb7WzR7xpY23ZJfR_PIDLNA/s1600/IMG_0363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM55rJoE6t3WS038U7kAuHuSGDGUt8TbkXUBFEFzp1rDkQ_h7VPw7T07N5OaVIVRHnFxYwB_PPSHRy1LmW-LSS5BQmphe0cE03sl0kONPdw_gTJWs7d5S3hwb7WzR7xpY23ZJfR_PIDLNA/s640/IMG_0363.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Added Parking Pad</td></tr>
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<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576519479416262 -84.15561676025384939.570399979416266 -84.165701760253853 39.582638979416259 -84.145531760253846tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-63066487589991480792016-02-26T18:30:00.000-05:002016-02-26T18:30:00.156-05:00We Chose Tuft & NeedleNew mattress shopping sucks. Based on the variations in models, it is almost impossible to comparison shop for mattress with any degree of reliability. And they are all ridiculously expensive. Our last mattress was a super deep, super expensive, pillow top mattress that we thought we'd love after spending a few nights sleeping on one while at relatives. <div>
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Short story - we don't love it it. Not at all. Granted we've had it about 6-7 years, but in that short time (I was expecting at least 10 years out of the mattress, so short isn't quite accurate) we now have ruts in our mattress that make it impossible to sleep anywhere else. As a result, a new mattress has been a frequent topic of discussion - it's just that building a new house meant that our priorities kept shifting.</div>
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Then I came across a Facebook ad for <a href="https://www.tuftandneedle.com/" target="_blank">Tuft & Needle</a>. Yes, I know - I'm guilty of encouraging invasive advertising. I'm not happy about it either, but it happened. I read all - and I do mean ALL - of the posts and comments, questions and answers...and then I started really digging. I looked for reviews, I watched video clips on YouTube. I kept digging for the deep dark secret that would make me forget all about a new, comfortable mattress for less than $1,000.</div>
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I didn't find it. </div>
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So with some subtle persuasion, I convinced my co-sleeper to buy a mattress that neither one of had ever slept on, laid on or even touched. I have to admit - I was a little scared and even concocted a backup plan to buy another mattress in the event it was unsleepable. Now, we are the proud owners (and very, very happy sleepers) of a king size Tuft & Needle foam mattress. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWgi6FuB0yk62WoWdm8sCbYPZkiBaM-q0wy2vmGDWZMhnfxzF1ytxOdSYXJ56ilATKosQuOJdPjawA4xRUCsqz7xUPgUlX8bmWEzpvb2lt6_qTsL8aVWU1-SpuAv9J3HutU2o1lRZVB8i/s1600/2016-T%2526N.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWgi6FuB0yk62WoWdm8sCbYPZkiBaM-q0wy2vmGDWZMhnfxzF1ytxOdSYXJ56ilATKosQuOJdPjawA4xRUCsqz7xUPgUlX8bmWEzpvb2lt6_qTsL8aVWU1-SpuAv9J3HutU2o1lRZVB8i/s640/2016-T%2526N.jpg" width="498" /></a></div>
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It came in a box.Really, it did.</div>
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And despite be a little on the heavy side, it was still easy for one person (me) to carry upstairs to our bedroom - unlike any other king size mattress I've ever bought. There are some great YouTube videos that show new owners unpacking their mattress and the expansion that happens when you open the vacuum-sealed back the mattress is shipped in - go watch them, you'll be amazed. The truth is, that's really what happens. It's pretty neat to watch - but even better when you lay down on it.</div>
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Mattresses are highly individualized - just because we like ours, doesn't mean that you'll like yours. But we really, really, really do like ours. It has only been a month, but we couldn't be happier with our choice. And the mattress. I cannot vouch for how well it will withstand the test of time, but if we get to the point where it starts letting us down (literally and figuratively), we'll be sure to let you know.</div>
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Until then, I encourage you to check out <a href="https://www.tuftandneedle.com/" target="_blank">Tuft & Needle</a> for yourself!</div>
Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-61034205141976146702016-01-21T19:30:00.000-05:002016-01-21T19:30:15.669-05:00We're So Happy!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEqc41JA__H-R55u9WHW-QxO280wuqBIs4VUPYXxdW0w2p4DeIbAMafoiRLZn-wpidwNZE-YzFeF0EIVRfaHobo2vB-OTFcUE64dEF-8nkpkHhYrdQyqb6zh1PHWlT08xwXShWVqO3pi_T/s1600/IMG_0318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEqc41JA__H-R55u9WHW-QxO280wuqBIs4VUPYXxdW0w2p4DeIbAMafoiRLZn-wpidwNZE-YzFeF0EIVRfaHobo2vB-OTFcUE64dEF-8nkpkHhYrdQyqb6zh1PHWlT08xwXShWVqO3pi_T/s640/IMG_0318.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most expensive key fob we've ever owned.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12640405471747358438noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-39146591425338120702016-01-21T19:00:00.000-05:002016-01-21T19:00:30.044-05:00A Peek Inside Before We Move In<br />
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I have to admit, I was afraid to post pictures from our pre-settlement walk through on Tuesday - I didn't want to jinx the closing! Crazy, eh? That's why home buying does to me - it clearly pushes me beyond the bounds of all sanity!<br />
<br />
Now that we've closed (can I get a WAHOO?) I have no more fears so here's the pics we took of the inside - before we start moving in and mess it all up. :)<br />
<h2>
First Floor</h2>
Here's the look around the first floor:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCqalzp9C142h5QenZRKPGDJ5E-zPJa6HyDz8jhSyvvHnw03BSJ5jTwadVPup_uKpW3YgndwPwqG2AYKmZP8JBXdmOAvl9zvABaAxZwAG7KIoypOGuDRUrksTGXmy9OjQLbQAFuMbNl8R/s1600/IMG_0319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCqalzp9C142h5QenZRKPGDJ5E-zPJa6HyDz8jhSyvvHnw03BSJ5jTwadVPup_uKpW3YgndwPwqG2AYKmZP8JBXdmOAvl9zvABaAxZwAG7KIoypOGuDRUrksTGXmy9OjQLbQAFuMbNl8R/s640/IMG_0319.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kitchen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkN4m5e1WdN-GiBezAXb56tMqQsyh4BkKcs9vJ1-wz2JeZUTSxW3RPy_924lGAB2Qberd3ygcVP39rAjQIDVhdEzwSACu7GLRDnrfqO1-EeYkdN6-zXYT7UksID4Goi315pjZBuwzz4Xg-/s1600/IMG_0320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkN4m5e1WdN-GiBezAXb56tMqQsyh4BkKcs9vJ1-wz2JeZUTSxW3RPy_924lGAB2Qberd3ygcVP39rAjQIDVhdEzwSACu7GLRDnrfqO1-EeYkdN6-zXYT7UksID4Goi315pjZBuwzz4Xg-/s640/IMG_0320.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More kitchen (we now realize that we need 50, count'em 50, pulls/knobs for our kitchen cabinet doors and drawers - pretty sure we went a little overboard on the cabinets)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1VhxxC3kRyj38fCWUUDPfiQcMHiw4EL4h_i7mVIRlx0b6aZaS-AbdeeSdJ1B3EZU-chaslss4J5ndiEIgYe2D5XZw0GZvdSJE3_payMv_-wa4oQFJwBM3mt_Rx-5nIBA7OskK7KCQq8e/s1600/IMG_0321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1VhxxC3kRyj38fCWUUDPfiQcMHiw4EL4h_i7mVIRlx0b6aZaS-AbdeeSdJ1B3EZU-chaslss4J5ndiEIgYe2D5XZw0GZvdSJE3_payMv_-wa4oQFJwBM3mt_Rx-5nIBA7OskK7KCQq8e/s640/IMG_0321.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pantry (it's huge!!!!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRyugcsu_8hPtO4sjuuwKVGy-wyzfWsM7PThF4d0bZWhIXvGqxf3Z7J5pncTRL_4-A2Xl4RRaxPl5WhUEMXR1J0UpdMG4M25l0hF6h5CW-72iHprEZpWKSTBxRfkVbdPxxxCQERyJ3lpG/s1600/IMG_0322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRyugcsu_8hPtO4sjuuwKVGy-wyzfWsM7PThF4d0bZWhIXvGqxf3Z7J5pncTRL_4-A2Xl4RRaxPl5WhUEMXR1J0UpdMG4M25l0hF6h5CW-72iHprEZpWKSTBxRfkVbdPxxxCQERyJ3lpG/s640/IMG_0322.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The study (my new office!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FbmkE1cxINXiZmUbnEX77fK4iRktKzp6FmqLzGD0BHEmLCoJVvv1SHCdDYkviGWuwvgslNF_CFbFGpCjHyOGrzrTZwwKhvRoiZtOV7TZfHoylXWNr-Mkx1_X8juyTPE5hV3cgJb_2dTL/s1600/IMG_0323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FbmkE1cxINXiZmUbnEX77fK4iRktKzp6FmqLzGD0BHEmLCoJVvv1SHCdDYkviGWuwvgslNF_CFbFGpCjHyOGrzrTZwwKhvRoiZtOV7TZfHoylXWNr-Mkx1_X8juyTPE5hV3cgJb_2dTL/s640/IMG_0323.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stairs, study doors and front door</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h2>
Second Floor</h2>
Now poking around the second floor:<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiCaQA8gGOKhzLxSSq0k125jpSTHWH_XhU85Rn8lZbXXYJQtBQPY-AzgmEat5ZgiehokgXvqgCrahe47mxvaOPMrosKYFi-Kspb8u84fFXr6ETTy343dsFw3C0xNjzTCImTvh37VKrvMz/s1600/IMG_0326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiCaQA8gGOKhzLxSSq0k125jpSTHWH_XhU85Rn8lZbXXYJQtBQPY-AzgmEat5ZgiehokgXvqgCrahe47mxvaOPMrosKYFi-Kspb8u84fFXr6ETTy343dsFw3C0xNjzTCImTvh37VKrvMz/s640/IMG_0326.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of the stairs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5vG2i6COiWSAn6OMqw3Og9quzeHfy2vqeap9pHOE03meNlS3RwcbZggsy361lr6xqlHSAStRz5fq40FlFO9IbG1Qfp4ZnxSSFZqNupjsPy-gKu2u8edFllHt5sEGJBMEFIRP434glupCW/s1600/IMG_0327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5vG2i6COiWSAn6OMqw3Og9quzeHfy2vqeap9pHOE03meNlS3RwcbZggsy361lr6xqlHSAStRz5fq40FlFO9IbG1Qfp4ZnxSSFZqNupjsPy-gKu2u8edFllHt5sEGJBMEFIRP434glupCW/s640/IMG_0327.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Landing at the top of the stairs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOYWb85p1PoM5hAuFKPC84FG5jqCX9zJVWZLcvND5DLA0AN2TRHz_AGqVqC8NPWrPM2YP1G-YtIJSU0PX-JRgH4pqAynKVC76v_oNJK_65D3WjS1rr85lwaY09IZrktEkOLc3XknWHa98Y/s1600/IMG_0325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOYWb85p1PoM5hAuFKPC84FG5jqCX9zJVWZLcvND5DLA0AN2TRHz_AGqVqC8NPWrPM2YP1G-YtIJSU0PX-JRgH4pqAynKVC76v_oNJK_65D3WjS1rr85lwaY09IZrktEkOLc3XknWHa98Y/s640/IMG_0325.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bathroom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_TJ6RNkAxpCDtambJYlq0MvbLinc5Z2AIznbiFgwmkqqEHE0vsErbjq_HMebIa1LS_0PD6DI0moUJaJk9SKtNST3raDnzjToQ4lPGkn5y8GUOoq1L9tGeOREaNRsdX-m_piDb_VfIMl6L/s1600/IMG_0324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_TJ6RNkAxpCDtambJYlq0MvbLinc5Z2AIznbiFgwmkqqEHE0vsErbjq_HMebIa1LS_0PD6DI0moUJaJk9SKtNST3raDnzjToQ4lPGkn5y8GUOoq1L9tGeOREaNRsdX-m_piDb_VfIMl6L/s640/IMG_0324.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laundry room (on the second floor!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzORUo2lSfmwQjYjsgOoFET8NU4YKzY8Qyar_WxavDXkDTAmE26G7LuvfDLqLiQSkoQmBCiJNYcr928QhZQB-tbqVusvIsZMSgBHAp-n72hVoBD-aidKFAevt7tg2zNqgBiwpHy0NEVJ26/s1600/IMG_0329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzORUo2lSfmwQjYjsgOoFET8NU4YKzY8Qyar_WxavDXkDTAmE26G7LuvfDLqLiQSkoQmBCiJNYcr928QhZQB-tbqVusvIsZMSgBHAp-n72hVoBD-aidKFAevt7tg2zNqgBiwpHy0NEVJ26/s640/IMG_0329.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Master bedroom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIblS2k_h9Nd7WdbQaSyOsrKei827nCzBoN219eibAnsWhZF1RaZTBJcL3O3rjpTB-V5nlJeto626XKuQIFrmprgoU4rLhSGWRHz4tyOhGf5q4_0Soo6PsZKLDqJZvynY-tsjswcRAgr4T/s1600/IMG_0330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIblS2k_h9Nd7WdbQaSyOsrKei827nCzBoN219eibAnsWhZF1RaZTBJcL3O3rjpTB-V5nlJeto626XKuQIFrmprgoU4rLhSGWRHz4tyOhGf5q4_0Soo6PsZKLDqJZvynY-tsjswcRAgr4T/s640/IMG_0330.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Master bath</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Basement<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1-tJtfoLSWNqKJn7yuGBpWaAkp76_ynoiqon1ZaZ7c9Ugnky6RvSWa_6xuhosRtvynZUeMw451Re_sZMR-Geov_czVvsD1WTF1FQHmLPkULlopUdEDY8_yFlD6n9rYu2tg1Y16iRlFvs8/s1600/IMG_0335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1-tJtfoLSWNqKJn7yuGBpWaAkp76_ynoiqon1ZaZ7c9Ugnky6RvSWa_6xuhosRtvynZUeMw451Re_sZMR-Geov_czVvsD1WTF1FQHmLPkULlopUdEDY8_yFlD6n9rYu2tg1Y16iRlFvs8/s640/IMG_0335.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bathroom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5MTGOCYK546SNtlctPsm-r5n0VqMoAIwjGvltYdsPcQLft_o_eG8d5EJlaWDEYwyKNOXYsilKu-Gkff11Ot_ec8IUj17Xhmnp2jkhEPtgWXeCpc_u0oTj3toEs-nPLFy4mUuBFOkTfQ1/s1600/IMG_0336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5MTGOCYK546SNtlctPsm-r5n0VqMoAIwjGvltYdsPcQLft_o_eG8d5EJlaWDEYwyKNOXYsilKu-Gkff11Ot_ec8IUj17Xhmnp2jkhEPtgWXeCpc_u0oTj3toEs-nPLFy4mUuBFOkTfQ1/s640/IMG_0336.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bathroom selfie :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-CWVLue-eOziw51ckV3Wz8-hJnrNIy5S_1hHysN8JsPXHhm0N1r2oJrm0gIV0GibSUl0yehNG23ik76m-2wZTCg66e-LsEQUgy3o2XgQOlCdNNo-jycO1s4bY7FqcXnUo7mYg2vYnV7jv/s1600/IMG_0334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-CWVLue-eOziw51ckV3Wz8-hJnrNIy5S_1hHysN8JsPXHhm0N1r2oJrm0gIV0GibSUl0yehNG23ik76m-2wZTCg66e-LsEQUgy3o2XgQOlCdNNo-jycO1s4bY7FqcXnUo7mYg2vYnV7jv/s640/IMG_0334.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ZAQlZwA-NZhaoXUxTHuRdSajVk62_lyDgvpXY-1OCU2fUGEtzxrZ8Kk-OpXPbbrhPSAhPuc6gta5drKQVGgJFL38iKfHsGbIvSHNKazfNzhdtf-x4C63Y3X6c3gXOOiKMB70mkFsFvUG/s1600/IMG_0333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ZAQlZwA-NZhaoXUxTHuRdSajVk62_lyDgvpXY-1OCU2fUGEtzxrZ8Kk-OpXPbbrhPSAhPuc6gta5drKQVGgJFL38iKfHsGbIvSHNKazfNzhdtf-x4C63Y3X6c3gXOOiKMB70mkFsFvUG/s640/IMG_0333.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGCC6U_wVkC_YfxCVNQ57PgqnVjHA5Stk7cbPQiHGtTO5NC_mveQXCYBKkz2YIN7G3bhLEm1wPioSEDSc1KPNB5mlYfW9i6eaVs5mTisgw8P4CZUbyiUMZrmy4rY8Gru_DjqlV0mo9BXRK/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGCC6U_wVkC_YfxCVNQ57PgqnVjHA5Stk7cbPQiHGtTO5NC_mveQXCYBKkz2YIN7G3bhLEm1wPioSEDSc1KPNB5mlYfW9i6eaVs5mTisgw8P4CZUbyiUMZrmy4rY8Gru_DjqlV0mo9BXRK/s640/IMG_0332.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpOYLCNySPJSofxaD8x506OZBVxtxRd-z3Cp10t6qLAAvC4sAWPS8Z59XNglvEEgPF6RFtIESuhYx2AKqWcXgFS5nnsGcEIzIQbTZA5TgSVS7lcSqE-zvDuiF48za7QD-3ekuQrVgVHBku/s1600/IMG_0331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpOYLCNySPJSofxaD8x506OZBVxtxRd-z3Cp10t6qLAAvC4sAWPS8Z59XNglvEEgPF6RFtIESuhYx2AKqWcXgFS5nnsGcEIzIQbTZA5TgSVS7lcSqE-zvDuiF48za7QD-3ekuQrVgVHBku/s640/IMG_0331.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And that's about it!<br />
<br />
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<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12640405471747358438noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576552557457156 -84.155273437539.575022557457153 -84.1577949375 39.578082557457158 -84.1527519375tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-51407333184567084492016-01-21T10:45:00.001-05:002016-01-21T17:42:16.150-05:00We Closed!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-25501201978075722192016-01-18T10:50:00.001-05:002016-01-18T10:50:44.055-05:00Closing Week!It's like Shark Week, but only better - at least in our eyes! We're closing this week and will be finally getting to post some complete interior pictures of all of the finished work!<br />
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The bad part about closing in January is that they won't be able to do the final grade and pour the driveway until the ground thaws. The mud from the yard and the base for the temporary driveway are two ingredients for a disaster inside our new house! Hopefully we'll be able to mitigate the damage until spring, but it's going to be a challenge!<br />
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Stay tuned for some more updates - really, we will post more, I promise! Our adventure is really just beginning - as is evidenced by our ever-growing Google Keep lists of things to do, things to get and everything else that is goes into moving into a new house!Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-34729170979933295812016-01-04T19:00:00.000-05:002016-01-18T10:43:57.447-05:00Inside in January!Ugh! Not spending any time at all inside of the house has really crimped our ability to post updates! We simply don't have much to say (as crazy as that sounds)! We've mostly been spending our time working on updates to our existing house to (hopefully) help it sell! There's nothing more annoying than updating your old house while your new house is being built!<div>
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The good news is that our PM has been diligently sending us updates which we look forward to like kids at Christmas! I don't think I ever posted these interior shots from either late December or early January - so here's what's been going on inside - cabinets!</div>
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I'll admit I fudged the date of this post a bit, but I wasn't sure of the exact date - so I may come back and correct it later! Or not....</div>
Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576461592806673 -84.15550947189331139.576461592806673 -84.155509471893311 39.576461592806673 -84.155509471893311tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-28490873007600002992015-12-18T19:00:00.000-05:002016-01-18T10:32:34.273-05:00Brick for Christmas!I know the updates have been lagging, but we haven't gotten much time to spend visiting the house with the holidays, so we've been relying on updates from our PM more than usual. The warm weather has been helpful with much of the exterior work that has been keeping them busy.<br />
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The progress on the brick wrap has been wonderful to see!<br />
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<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576651791485176 -84.155273437539.576651791485176 -84.1552734375 39.576651791485176 -84.1552734375tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-40265287602913649182015-11-27T19:00:00.000-05:002016-01-18T10:19:00.629-05:00Our Pre-Drywall Peek!During our pre-drywall meeting, we tried to captures pictures of every wall and ceiling for later reference. I have plans of putting in more outlets and adding some additional network ports, so having an idea what might be in the way should come in very handy.....<div>
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Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.5764367842449 -84.15535926818847739.574906784244895 -84.157880768188477 39.5779667842449 -84.152837768188476tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-54633897084695105252015-11-20T15:31:00.001-05:002015-11-21T21:51:09.678-05:00Hey, Look! A Roof!You know we're lacking effort when, after spending 30 minutes exploring inside our new house (with our PM and his assistant, per the contract) we only emerged with one picture. And its of the outside. We're failing.<br />
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Thankfully our PM came to the rescue with his weekly update!<br />
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The view from the great room into the morning room (on the left) and the kitchen and pantry (on the right). The island is still a little long but it will be fixed. (It's still an improvement - when it came in from the factory, it was framed as a nine foot wall....)<br />
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Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576519479416234 -84.15518760681152339.573459979416235 -84.160230106811525 39.579578979416233 -84.150145106811522tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-86261060409331054092015-11-14T21:30:00.002-05:002015-11-14T21:30:13.967-05:00OMG! We Have a House!<h2>
We have a HOUSE!!!!</h2>
Yes, it's impossible to contain our excitement! Framing started this week and just look at the progress they've made in a WEEK! It's amazing to see just how quickly they are able to assemble the pieces!<br />
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From the front...</div>
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And the view from the back....</div>
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<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576502940389858 -84.15523052215576239.574972940389856 -84.157752022155762 39.578032940389861 -84.152709022155761tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-64319124447064431132015-11-08T15:46:00.001-05:002015-11-14T21:32:17.627-05:00Gorgeous Fall Day!Nothing new, but at least there was light!<br />
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Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576552557457156 -84.155166149139439.575022557457153 -84.1576876491394 39.578082557457158 -84.1526446491394tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-49760578993712256462015-11-06T19:43:00.001-05:002015-11-14T21:33:46.850-05:00We Have Wood!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">After work today I rushed out to out hole only to find that all of the framing fairies were there first! All of the lumber for the house was delivered! And there is A LOT of it! According to our super-duper PM, the basement is plumbed, the foundation is back filled and they might start framing NEXT WEEK!!!!!!!!</span></div>
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Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576618713491634 -84.15512323379516639.575088713491631 -84.157644733795166 39.578148713491636 -84.152601733795166tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-13609887598389884042015-11-01T13:34:00.001-05:002016-01-21T17:48:04.176-05:00Every Home Needs a Good Foundation<div>
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Well, it appears that despite the sickness that infested our home this week, construction on the new house was in full swing! We now have stuff in our hole, specifically our foundation walls! Backfilling and basement plumbing will probably happen this week - that's some exciting stuff!<br />
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Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-67760083010111718272015-10-22T10:58:00.001-04:002015-10-23T14:18:50.215-04:00There's a Hole in the Bucket, Dear Liza!<div dir="ltr">
BREAKING NEWS<br />
Springboro, Ohio</div>
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We have a hole! Our reporter on the scene just confirmed that there is a hole in the ground on our lot! This means, wait for it, WE'VE BROKEN GROUND!<br />
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EVENING UPDATE:</div>
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Not only do we have a hole, but the footers are poured as well! Unless I'm mistaken, that means the forms are coming and the basement is going to be poured soon!</div>
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Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-105305172949527602015-10-16T19:55:00.001-04:002015-10-23T14:23:28.079-04:00Pre-Construction Meeting? DONE!<div dir="ltr">
Well, today was the first day this whole home-building thing felt real. Really real. Not just playing-around real. Really real real.</div>
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We meet the PM, who comes across as an incredibly prepared, in-control and competent individual and just exudes trust. Every question we threw at him, he answered thoroughly and without making us feel totally in over out heads, which is no small accomplishment! Definitely the man with the plan!</div>
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We did catch a missed change request for a gas line rough-in to the backyard that got lost amidst the whole after-the-last-second kitchen change. It's now added along with a rough-in for a water softener. (Thanks go out to the Villages of Winding Creek Facebook group for that one!)</div>
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All in all, after close to the hours, we feel so ready for this! The best part? OUR HOUSE IS STAKED OUT! And we got to walk around and imagine! So incredibly awesome! Our PM assured us, that even though it may look small, it isn't. (Imaginary Panic #1 averted!)</div>
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We break ground next week, weather permitting! Here's hoping for a mild winter with no construction delays! Let's do this!</div>
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Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-11094945169188640552015-10-08T19:25:00.001-04:002015-10-08T19:25:15.833-04:00Houston, We Have Pre-Construction!<p dir="ltr">Just found out out preconstruction meeting is scheduled! It's about to get real!</p>
<p dir="ltr">Good thing we have all these questions ready!</p>
Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-21235834693010624832015-10-05T19:00:00.000-04:002015-10-23T14:19:37.025-04:00Stone Creek Boulevard Progress UpdateRumor has it that we are "in week 4" - from what I understand, that means we are about four weeks out from breaking ground. WAHOO!<br />
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Of course - it's still four weeks away, but seeing as how we still haven't sold our house, we are pretty okay with it! Our friendly, neighborhood sales rep (one of whom is now Kara, who replaced Taja, who moved to a new Ryan Homes development in Xenia - all of whom we love, by the way) says that we should be getting contacted soon to set up our (gasp!) Pre-Construction Meeting! Double WAHOO!<br />
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So, it really isn't that exciting to anyone but us, is it? We understand, but after waiting and waiting and waiting, it finally feels like its about to become real!<br />
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<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576982570552609 -84.15409326553344739.575452570552606 -84.156614765533448 39.578512570552611 -84.151571765533447tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-948379142305530998.post-83063469461259758172015-09-19T01:00:00.000-04:002015-10-23T14:19:53.848-04:00Progress on Stone Creek Boulevard!Ok, so we still haven't broken ground, or even had our pre-construction meeting - BUT, it seems the other houses along Stone Creek Boulevard are underway! Since our lot was the last lot purchased, we're hoping that means we are at least creeping up the list!<br />
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<br />Shawn Monkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15886920449847175371noreply@blogger.com0Clear Creek Township, OH, USA39.576850259115048 -84.15437221527139.573790759115049 -84.159414715271 39.579909759115047 -84.149329715271