Our families decided we needed to cut down how big we do Christmas this year, and I'm actually quite thankful, because Christmas should not be about how much money you spend, or how many gifts you get someone. It's about being with your family, friends, and loved ones, and giving more than just material things.
This year is hopefully a much more practical year for all of us with the recession, and job losses. Hopefully, we'll all realize that in the end, the toys, fancy shoes, Ed Hardy designer t-shirts, etc. is just stuff.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Past few months, and my New Years Resolutions
Oh brother - that's been my favorite phrase lately.
1. The house - the exterior renovations pertaining to the front gable, siding, roof, and gutters are done. My house now has green siding with white trim. I think it goes great with the red brick. We didn't plan on replacing the roof, but we did. It looked horrible, and our bathroom ceiling was leaking. Anyway, that was a budget buster, but I'm incredibly happy that we did it. It looks great. Last I mentioned was the master bedroom - it's done along with the office...well, when I say done, I mean it's cleaned and painted, and can be moved into. The finishes, such as electrical sockets and wall plates, crown molding have not been added/replaced, and floors have not been refinished. But that stuff has to be done all at the same time, so we're waiting on that for now.
Starting on the kitchen next. We found our granite, cabinets, and the contactors, purchased a range, still need a couple of appliances. Best case scenario - renovators come in and prep the site mid January - finish in 10 days, cabinet installers take about 1 to 5 days, and granite in about 1 week. By Feb, we'll have a brand spankin' new kitchen. My fingers are crossed. My wallet is getting thinner.
2. Work - We've been in business for almost 3 months now. We are trucking along. Purchased DealMutt.com, and will be starting developments in late January, early Feb. IHTHT has sustained it's growth - and 13Deals is growing faster than we can handle. We hired a guy that worked for Razor in CA - he's been more than we could ever ask for. He is definitely on the same wavelength as the rest of us. We are blessed to have survived these past few months, I know 2010 will be a much better year for us.
Going to CES in Vegas this year again - taking husband with me. I don't feel so guilty leaving the office if it's work related.
I feel like we're outgrowing our new office. We just moved in it last June, and since the first pallet rolled in, I immediately knew we'd outgrow this one fast. Looks like that time is coming soon.
I hope to double in size by this time next year - employees, revenue, everything.
3. Fun Stuff - I did a little bit of traveling this last quarter - visited Boston, Philly, took a trip to Memphis with my mom, and Charleston for a weekend. Ate my first canoli in Philly - anytime I go back up that direction, I'm always going to scour for pastry shops. Its my new favorite thing. It used to just be ice cream, but I'm diversifying my interests.
4. Family - I kinda told my mom that Scott and I are interested in entertaining the idea of trying to have a child next year during Thanksgiving weekend...well, this morning she called me and told me that she doesn't think it's a good idea, and that I should wait til at least 2011. She says I'm too busy right now, and I need to focus on work for at least 1 more year, and that Scott should work at least a year first. I thought about it, and she's right. My house is a hot mess, I still drive my beater, and Scott will have just started working so it will sort of be very inconvenient for us, because he'll be an intern and will be on call every 4th night. We need to finish renovations on the house and buy a new car next year, then we'll be set for a child.
5. New Year's Resolutions -
a. Ack! I always say this, but I need to lose 15lbs BAD! I can't believe I put on 10 in the last 3 months. I tell ya, not having a kitchen is disasterous for my diet. I severely dislike eating out. I prefer to cook my own meals.
b. Finish the last 3 rooms in the house by April. Then the house is done! And I can have dinner parties and stuff here without cringing when someone asks to use our bathroom.
c. Become an American citizen!
d. Visit Europe in the summer.
e. Get a marriage license (long story).
f. Buy a new car (I severely dislike this activity).
g. Go sea kayaking.
h. Change the way I view alot of things.
i. Play more mafia.
j. Throw more parties.
k. Make new friends.
l. Visit old friends.
m. Have no babies.
n. Pay off more debt.
o. Run a 5k (this should be easy, but for some reason it's not for me).
p. Send my parents off to Cambodia for a month.
q. Spend more quality time with my brother.
r. Limit my work hours to 55 hours per week.
s. Do more outdoor activities with my dog.
t. Be more precise.
u. Be more honest with myself.
v. Create more meaningful relationships.
w. Put more thought into my actions and words.
x. Wear cardigans.
y. Get a pair of Toms Shoes.
z. Be more attentive to Scott.
1. The house - the exterior renovations pertaining to the front gable, siding, roof, and gutters are done. My house now has green siding with white trim. I think it goes great with the red brick. We didn't plan on replacing the roof, but we did. It looked horrible, and our bathroom ceiling was leaking. Anyway, that was a budget buster, but I'm incredibly happy that we did it. It looks great. Last I mentioned was the master bedroom - it's done along with the office...well, when I say done, I mean it's cleaned and painted, and can be moved into. The finishes, such as electrical sockets and wall plates, crown molding have not been added/replaced, and floors have not been refinished. But that stuff has to be done all at the same time, so we're waiting on that for now.
Starting on the kitchen next. We found our granite, cabinets, and the contactors, purchased a range, still need a couple of appliances. Best case scenario - renovators come in and prep the site mid January - finish in 10 days, cabinet installers take about 1 to 5 days, and granite in about 1 week. By Feb, we'll have a brand spankin' new kitchen. My fingers are crossed. My wallet is getting thinner.
2. Work - We've been in business for almost 3 months now. We are trucking along. Purchased DealMutt.com, and will be starting developments in late January, early Feb. IHTHT has sustained it's growth - and 13Deals is growing faster than we can handle. We hired a guy that worked for Razor in CA - he's been more than we could ever ask for. He is definitely on the same wavelength as the rest of us. We are blessed to have survived these past few months, I know 2010 will be a much better year for us.
Going to CES in Vegas this year again - taking husband with me. I don't feel so guilty leaving the office if it's work related.
I feel like we're outgrowing our new office. We just moved in it last June, and since the first pallet rolled in, I immediately knew we'd outgrow this one fast. Looks like that time is coming soon.
I hope to double in size by this time next year - employees, revenue, everything.
3. Fun Stuff - I did a little bit of traveling this last quarter - visited Boston, Philly, took a trip to Memphis with my mom, and Charleston for a weekend. Ate my first canoli in Philly - anytime I go back up that direction, I'm always going to scour for pastry shops. Its my new favorite thing. It used to just be ice cream, but I'm diversifying my interests.
4. Family - I kinda told my mom that Scott and I are interested in entertaining the idea of trying to have a child next year during Thanksgiving weekend...well, this morning she called me and told me that she doesn't think it's a good idea, and that I should wait til at least 2011. She says I'm too busy right now, and I need to focus on work for at least 1 more year, and that Scott should work at least a year first. I thought about it, and she's right. My house is a hot mess, I still drive my beater, and Scott will have just started working so it will sort of be very inconvenient for us, because he'll be an intern and will be on call every 4th night. We need to finish renovations on the house and buy a new car next year, then we'll be set for a child.
5. New Year's Resolutions -
a. Ack! I always say this, but I need to lose 15lbs BAD! I can't believe I put on 10 in the last 3 months. I tell ya, not having a kitchen is disasterous for my diet. I severely dislike eating out. I prefer to cook my own meals.
b. Finish the last 3 rooms in the house by April. Then the house is done! And I can have dinner parties and stuff here without cringing when someone asks to use our bathroom.
c. Become an American citizen!
d. Visit Europe in the summer.
e. Get a marriage license (long story).
f. Buy a new car (I severely dislike this activity).
g. Go sea kayaking.
h. Change the way I view alot of things.
i. Play more mafia.
j. Throw more parties.
k. Make new friends.
l. Visit old friends.
m. Have no babies.
n. Pay off more debt.
o. Run a 5k (this should be easy, but for some reason it's not for me).
p. Send my parents off to Cambodia for a month.
q. Spend more quality time with my brother.
r. Limit my work hours to 55 hours per week.
s. Do more outdoor activities with my dog.
t. Be more precise.
u. Be more honest with myself.
v. Create more meaningful relationships.
w. Put more thought into my actions and words.
x. Wear cardigans.
y. Get a pair of Toms Shoes.
z. Be more attentive to Scott.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Master bedroom is done!
Well almost...the outlets and switches need to be replaced with new white ones, light fixture needs to be changed, and floors refinished, but other than that and decorating, it's done! It's a cool soft light sky blue color, that makes the room bright and airy. I love the color we chose, and I think we can make it look fantastic once we can start decorating it. I'll post pics when it's ready.
I want to go back to normal...
Normal? What's that these days? I feel like my life has been going through some ups and downs lately...not anything bad...just lots of anxiousness. I've been feeling like I'm running, constantly doing stuff, but without a focus. Work has been incredibly busy, and consuming every ounce of energy and time I have. Not to mention, my house won't renovate itself, so getting off work at 8pm, searching for a quick dinner, then back home to work on the house to about 12 is very exhausting.
I've been getting these anxiety/panic attacks, where literally, out of the blue my heart just starts racing, I become frantic, become angry over stupid stuff , and get blistering headaches. My whole body just feels achy and tired. I hardly sleep much any more, which has caused me to rely on sleep aids to feel somewhat rested the next day. I'm not depressed and I'm very happy with everything, so it's kind of strange for me to have these feelings. So I always feel nervous, anxious, unprepared, and stressed out. It's associated with work and the renovations of our house. I need the renovations to hurry up and get finished so I can focus on work. But if I could stabilize work, then that may help the anxiousness to subside a bit. I just don't want everything to crumble on me. I've worked too hard for everything I have achieved.
Despite the rollercoaster, it has been a fun ride. Hard work does pay off, and I know the rewards will be worth it.
I've been getting these anxiety/panic attacks, where literally, out of the blue my heart just starts racing, I become frantic, become angry over stupid stuff , and get blistering headaches. My whole body just feels achy and tired. I hardly sleep much any more, which has caused me to rely on sleep aids to feel somewhat rested the next day. I'm not depressed and I'm very happy with everything, so it's kind of strange for me to have these feelings. So I always feel nervous, anxious, unprepared, and stressed out. It's associated with work and the renovations of our house. I need the renovations to hurry up and get finished so I can focus on work. But if I could stabilize work, then that may help the anxiousness to subside a bit. I just don't want everything to crumble on me. I've worked too hard for everything I have achieved.
Despite the rollercoaster, it has been a fun ride. Hard work does pay off, and I know the rewards will be worth it.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Boston, JB, & Charleston
I'm trying to remain sane these past few weeks. Lots going on -
Husband and I went to Boston for a short weekend trip - definitely helped destress. We got to see many sites of Boston, Harvard, and ate as much seafood as we could. I wished we had enough time to go to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, but we'll try to hit those next time. The city is really neat, I enjoyed the many shops and restaurants. We wondered aimlessly for the most part as we tour whatever part of the city we could by foot. I ended up with a stress-fracture on the second day and cried myself to sleep by 9pm that night because it was so incredibly painful. Surprisingly enough, the next morning, the pain was gone and I was back at sightseeing again.
JB is now in almost full effect - will be working on the website soon. 13Deals.com is now operated by JB.
Brother came over and spent the last week here. He was supposed to help me with alot of stuff around the house, but he ended up doing hardly anything except overfeeding my dog with treats because she whines at him. He left today.
Spent this past weekend in Charleston with Scott and Jess. They rented a beachouse for a month while they did their rotations down there. I came back home with 30 mosquito bites. Had enough shrimp burgers to last me awhile. Slept on the beach for several hours....received a mild sunburn. I think I wanna go sea-kayaking sometime.
Sort of liking the idea that I'll be spending the next 3 weeks alone...perhaps I'll get lots done with no distractions. Will be going to Memphis next week for my US Citizenship exam.
Husband and I went to Boston for a short weekend trip - definitely helped destress. We got to see many sites of Boston, Harvard, and ate as much seafood as we could. I wished we had enough time to go to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, but we'll try to hit those next time. The city is really neat, I enjoyed the many shops and restaurants. We wondered aimlessly for the most part as we tour whatever part of the city we could by foot. I ended up with a stress-fracture on the second day and cried myself to sleep by 9pm that night because it was so incredibly painful. Surprisingly enough, the next morning, the pain was gone and I was back at sightseeing again.
JB is now in almost full effect - will be working on the website soon. 13Deals.com is now operated by JB.
Brother came over and spent the last week here. He was supposed to help me with alot of stuff around the house, but he ended up doing hardly anything except overfeeding my dog with treats because she whines at him. He left today.
Spent this past weekend in Charleston with Scott and Jess. They rented a beachouse for a month while they did their rotations down there. I came back home with 30 mosquito bites. Had enough shrimp burgers to last me awhile. Slept on the beach for several hours....received a mild sunburn. I think I wanna go sea-kayaking sometime.
Sort of liking the idea that I'll be spending the next 3 weeks alone...perhaps I'll get lots done with no distractions. Will be going to Memphis next week for my US Citizenship exam.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Feeling evoked.
The winner is "Jammin' Butter"! It's unconventional, highly brandable, and very easy to remember. AND, it makes you smile when you say it!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Words that evoke a certain feeling
Laid Back - Chill - Exciting - Hyper - Loose - Thrill - Adventurous - Cool - Fun - Young - Hip - Trendy - Simple - Uncomplicated - Relaxed - Detailed - Accomplished
Friday, September 18, 2009
Boston for a weekend
Well, we booked hotels last night for this weekend in Boston. I had doubts we were ever going to go until he booked it last night. So, I'll update on the happenings in New England.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Alternative scenario #1 for tonight - "A Mad Search"
Ok, I think in order to remain sane, I'm going to have to be creative. I decided to write alternative scenarios for what I could be doing right this moment because the status quo ain't no fun. Here's my first one, I hope its entertaining...
Alternative scenario #1 for tonight - "A Mad Search"
Criss-crossing through the breezy midsummer night on Madrid's cobblestone streets on a Vespa scooter with husband, clenching tight because I'm afraid I'll fall off, in a mad search for a dessert shop. Husband thinks he's slick and drives a little fast making me nervous, and my chest is pounding, because I can just see him hitting a bump in the road, and there I go flying off onto the street sign, landing upside down without a helmet but miraculously arise with just a crick in my neck. Husband is determined to find a dessert shop but doesn't realize he is driving in a really large circle, although, the glorious sites of the city and its wonderment were more satisfying than any dessert, but to our surprise, there was a pastry shop just a couple doors down from where we made the first right, instead of a left.
Alternative scenario #1 for tonight - "A Mad Search"
Criss-crossing through the breezy midsummer night on Madrid's cobblestone streets on a Vespa scooter with husband, clenching tight because I'm afraid I'll fall off, in a mad search for a dessert shop. Husband thinks he's slick and drives a little fast making me nervous, and my chest is pounding, because I can just see him hitting a bump in the road, and there I go flying off onto the street sign, landing upside down without a helmet but miraculously arise with just a crick in my neck. Husband is determined to find a dessert shop but doesn't realize he is driving in a really large circle, although, the glorious sites of the city and its wonderment were more satisfying than any dessert, but to our surprise, there was a pastry shop just a couple doors down from where we made the first right, instead of a left.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The New Trophy Wives: Asian Women - Marie Claire Magazine
I found this interesting.
The New Trophy Wives: Asian Women
Rupert Murdoch has one. So do financiers Vivi Nevo and Bruce Wasserstein. Why are the West's most powerful men coupling up with younger Asian women?
By Ying Chu
Call it the Woody Allen Effect. When the venerable director scandalously left Mia Farrow for her adopted daughter, South Korean-born Soon-Yi Previn — 35 years his junior — he may as well have sent out a press release: Asian-girl fantasy trumps that of Hollywood royalty!
Read More...
"Enter the doll-faced Asian sylph on the arm of a silver-haired Western suit. (Hello, mail-order bride!) The excruciating colonial stereotypes — Asian women as submissive, domestic, hypersexual — are obviously nothing new. But decades after The World of Suzie Wong hit drive-ins and more than 20 years since David Bowie's "China Girl" topped the music charts, why are we still indulging them?
"Because they're omnipresent — and often entertaining. Even now, how many cinematic greats, literary best sellers, or even cell-phone ads characterize Asian women as something other than geishas, ninjas, or dragon ladies? As the object of opening-line zingers like "Me love you long time" (the infamous line from Stanley Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket), I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry at the cheeky blog stuffwhitepeoplelike.com, which ranks Asian girls at number 11 because "Asian women avoid key white women characteristics, such as having a midlife crisis, divorce, and hobbies that don't involve taking care of the children."
"Sure, I'm petite and was in fact born in Shanghai, but — to the shock of more than one guy I've gone out with — I'd rather down an icy beer and burger than nurse bubble tea and eat dumplings while massaging his back with my toes.
"Tellingly, most current trophies of choice are far more than exotic arm candy. They are accomplished musicians and journalists, they have Ivy League MBAs and hail from prestigious political families. Why, then, are these women falling for rich white patriarchs? Why be a target for headline comparisons to concubines?"
The New Trophy Wives: Asian Women
Rupert Murdoch has one. So do financiers Vivi Nevo and Bruce Wasserstein. Why are the West's most powerful men coupling up with younger Asian women?
By Ying Chu
Call it the Woody Allen Effect. When the venerable director scandalously left Mia Farrow for her adopted daughter, South Korean-born Soon-Yi Previn — 35 years his junior — he may as well have sent out a press release: Asian-girl fantasy trumps that of Hollywood royalty!
Read More...
"Enter the doll-faced Asian sylph on the arm of a silver-haired Western suit. (Hello, mail-order bride!) The excruciating colonial stereotypes — Asian women as submissive, domestic, hypersexual — are obviously nothing new. But decades after The World of Suzie Wong hit drive-ins and more than 20 years since David Bowie's "China Girl" topped the music charts, why are we still indulging them?
"Because they're omnipresent — and often entertaining. Even now, how many cinematic greats, literary best sellers, or even cell-phone ads characterize Asian women as something other than geishas, ninjas, or dragon ladies? As the object of opening-line zingers like "Me love you long time" (the infamous line from Stanley Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket), I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry at the cheeky blog stuffwhitepeoplelike.com, which ranks Asian girls at number 11 because "Asian women avoid key white women characteristics, such as having a midlife crisis, divorce, and hobbies that don't involve taking care of the children."
"Sure, I'm petite and was in fact born in Shanghai, but — to the shock of more than one guy I've gone out with — I'd rather down an icy beer and burger than nurse bubble tea and eat dumplings while massaging his back with my toes.
"Tellingly, most current trophies of choice are far more than exotic arm candy. They are accomplished musicians and journalists, they have Ivy League MBAs and hail from prestigious political families. Why, then, are these women falling for rich white patriarchs? Why be a target for headline comparisons to concubines?"
Daniel Craig and his wife Satsuki Mitchell
Nicholas Cage and wife Alice Kim
Monday, September 7, 2009
Citizenship Update #3
I'm so excited about this citizenship process - everything has been very timely. I got my 3rd notice on Friday about my civics test interview. Basically, I have to take a multiple choice test on the US Government. Super easy stuff. Because I've been here for over 20 years, I'm exempt from reading, oral, and written testing. I think this will be a breeze. October 15, I have to go to Memphis - which is about 8 or so hours away. I need to find a flight down there. I hate going to Memphis, much less by myself. It's not the safest city and Husband will be in Charleston at that time, so he won't be able to go with me.
So I'm excited - it won't be long before I will be inducted as a citizen of the US.
Happy Labor Day! I'm going to Chick-fil-A to get my free sandwich by wearing my MTSU shirt. Yip yip!
So I'm excited - it won't be long before I will be inducted as a citizen of the US.
Happy Labor Day! I'm going to Chick-fil-A to get my free sandwich by wearing my MTSU shirt. Yip yip!
I'm a googler
I google myself every now and then to make sure there's not a website that has crawled my information and posted it online.
I generally enjoy seeing my MTSU Debate records, records, being on the front of page of the Comm Studies Dept website, graduation, and there was an article with me in it back in 2003.
Sometimes, I get surprised, and see my Twitter comments comes up. It's kinda weird. Unfortunately, I don't update there much. I think I will when I get the chance to integrate it with the Tasty.
I generally enjoy seeing my MTSU Debate records, records, being on the front of page of the Comm Studies Dept website, graduation, and there was an article with me in it back in 2003.
Sometimes, I get surprised, and see my Twitter comments comes up. It's kinda weird. Unfortunately, I don't update there much. I think I will when I get the chance to integrate it with the Tasty.
I'd like to think that my name is pretty unique, but sometimes, after a really focused google, I find a funny something involving my name - this time its, Taxi Vantha. I guess when I'm in Cambodia, I will definitely get in one of these, and see if "Vantha's" are better than "Checker" or "Yellow". lol. I'm quite certain that Vantha's are better. ;)
I will try to post more stuff on random websites and see if it shows up on google.
Monday, August 31, 2009
The next phase
Well, in about about 59 minutes Husband will be applying to several residency programs that will determine the next phase in our journey thru life. Although I'm just along for the ride, I don't really look forward to the new people I have to get to know, the new ways of the new city, and the new jobs that we'll have. Scott could totally hate the program he gets into, and I could hate my boss or the company I work for, we could hate the neighborhood we moved into, we could end up being really poor compared to everyone else if we moved to expensives places like New York, Boston, Southern California...which would make me really sad and unhappy.
It's taken me a bit of heartache, crying, and adjusting to get used to Johnson City, and now after I've figured everything out, and finally feel comfortable where I am, its time to move again. This time next year I am not 100% certain where we will be. We expect to be in JC for at least his intern year, but that also gets decided in the match - unlike what I originally thought.
So, I sit there everyday, and I stress out about how long its going to take to get this house finished so I can just relax and shift focus to other important things.
I think this is just what life is.
It's taken me a bit of heartache, crying, and adjusting to get used to Johnson City, and now after I've figured everything out, and finally feel comfortable where I am, its time to move again. This time next year I am not 100% certain where we will be. We expect to be in JC for at least his intern year, but that also gets decided in the match - unlike what I originally thought.
So, I sit there everyday, and I stress out about how long its going to take to get this house finished so I can just relax and shift focus to other important things.
I think this is just what life is.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
The Appalachian Fair
Yes, we decided to visit the Appalachian Fair this year and see what all the fuss is about. Scott had gotten back in from Knoxville to spend the weekend at home, so he met us out at the fair. We met up, and got some fair grub. Of course, I can't resist the turkey legs. That's the reason why I even go to the fair. Some go for the rides, the expos, and maybe even the demolition derby, but no, I ONLY go for the turkey leg. So I almost overdose on tryptophan, then we get up and walk around aimlessly viewing some of the wildlife expos, and end up at the demolition derby. Spent quite some time there, saw a man with a really good mullet cheering for his favorite derby car.
Then we mosy onto the livestock and saw some really fat cows, like REALLY FAT. Like so fat and full of milk, the sac looked like it was gonna burst. I'm glad they are dairy cows, cause they had names...I can't eat animals that, I knowingly, was named. I don't mind drinking Daisy Cow's milk, but I can't eat her.
Ah, the rides, we did a couple of the rides, then I was done. Tryptophan and fast spinning rides don't mix. Not to mention I scream like a little girl on everything.
These sheep were really loving - we even saw one try to mount another.
A HA! The mini-horse!!!
The "cheepest" chicks you'll find!
Do you see what's wrong with this photo???? Poor, poor sheep!
Cow butts!
Little piggies!
And of course, the amazing mullet I told you about!!! Can't go to a fair and not see one of these!
Then we mosy onto the livestock and saw some really fat cows, like REALLY FAT. Like so fat and full of milk, the sac looked like it was gonna burst. I'm glad they are dairy cows, cause they had names...I can't eat animals that, I knowingly, was named. I don't mind drinking Daisy Cow's milk, but I can't eat her.
Ah, the rides, we did a couple of the rides, then I was done. Tryptophan and fast spinning rides don't mix. Not to mention I scream like a little girl on everything.
These sheep were really loving - we even saw one try to mount another.
A HA! The mini-horse!!! 
The "cheepest" chicks you'll find! 
Do you see what's wrong with this photo???? Poor, poor sheep!
Cow butts!
Little piggies!
And of course, the amazing mullet I told you about!!! Can't go to a fair and not see one of these! Kitchen is completely empty
Ok, so it's empty. This is getting scary, I'm doing two projects at once... Obviously, the kitchen won't get done first. The bad part about redoing the kitchen is that it involves 4 spaces: kitchen, half bath, butler's pantry, and mud/laundry room. We are going to attack all of those spaces at the same time, because they share the same flooring almost.
Surprisingly, we discovered that there are hardwoods underneath the linoleum, so we're going to have that refinished. I think hardwoods in the kitchen looks amazing - it's like an upgrade for potential homebuyers.
Shockingly, the plaster underneath the wood paneling is in incredibly bad shape. As bad as you can possibly imagine. The plaster is crumbling as we take down the paneling. There's no repairing it, but that was a cost we had budgeted in, because we didn't want to keep any original plaster in the kitchen anyway. Also, the laths are bad - that's going to come out and new framing must go in. I'm actually going to reuse the existing framing 2x4's that was used to cover the beautiful original beadboard and lower the ceilings on the front porch. It's in good shape, and it would be a shame to waste good solid pine wood.
Another challenge with the space(s) is electrical/plumbing work. The electrical wires for the appliances are coming out of the floor - which means there will be holes in the hardwoods, but fortunately, the cabinets will be covering them. All of the switches/outlets must be realigned and retested to make sure they all work. New electrical work must be done to add a light fixture in the butler's pantry (which will be renovated to relocate the fridge and surrounded by built-in cabinets for more storage - storage is the biggest issue in this house).
As for plumbing, it's coming out of the floor again, so we're going to see if we can get some advice from a plumber on how we can build the cabinets around it so it won't be so obviously retarded looking.
Here are some not-so-tasty photos of the current state of the kitchen.
^^View into the mud room: They wood-paneled this kitchen to DEATH. I can't wait to rip that crap down, and get drywall up. This wall will have a pantry cabinet, sink, dishwasher, and more cabinets.
^^View into the butler's pantry: This location will house the range, and otr microwave, also a peninsula countertop over some cabinets to store pots and pans.
^^This is what the plaster looks like when we tore off part of the paneling. I picked off some of the plaster by hand.
^^What the plaster looks like from a distance.
^^Scott wanted to see the chimney stack and the condition it was in. Definitely not good, so we're going to drywall over the paneling.
Surprisingly, we discovered that there are hardwoods underneath the linoleum, so we're going to have that refinished. I think hardwoods in the kitchen looks amazing - it's like an upgrade for potential homebuyers.
Shockingly, the plaster underneath the wood paneling is in incredibly bad shape. As bad as you can possibly imagine. The plaster is crumbling as we take down the paneling. There's no repairing it, but that was a cost we had budgeted in, because we didn't want to keep any original plaster in the kitchen anyway. Also, the laths are bad - that's going to come out and new framing must go in. I'm actually going to reuse the existing framing 2x4's that was used to cover the beautiful original beadboard and lower the ceilings on the front porch. It's in good shape, and it would be a shame to waste good solid pine wood.
Another challenge with the space(s) is electrical/plumbing work. The electrical wires for the appliances are coming out of the floor - which means there will be holes in the hardwoods, but fortunately, the cabinets will be covering them. All of the switches/outlets must be realigned and retested to make sure they all work. New electrical work must be done to add a light fixture in the butler's pantry (which will be renovated to relocate the fridge and surrounded by built-in cabinets for more storage - storage is the biggest issue in this house).
As for plumbing, it's coming out of the floor again, so we're going to see if we can get some advice from a plumber on how we can build the cabinets around it so it won't be so obviously retarded looking.
Here are some not-so-tasty photos of the current state of the kitchen.
^^View into the mud room: They wood-paneled this kitchen to DEATH. I can't wait to rip that crap down, and get drywall up. This wall will have a pantry cabinet, sink, dishwasher, and more cabinets.
^^View into the butler's pantry: This location will house the range, and otr microwave, also a peninsula countertop over some cabinets to store pots and pans.
^^This is what the plaster looks like when we tore off part of the paneling. I picked off some of the plaster by hand.^^What the plaster looks like from a distance.
^^Scott wanted to see the chimney stack and the condition it was in. Definitely not good, so we're going to drywall over the paneling.Office Update
Well, I've started on it. The hodge podge of random stuff is out of there and sprinkled all through the house. We sold the super-dusty ceiling fan at the yard sale, so we haven't had overhead light in awhile...which makes us even more anxious to get this room up and functional.
A few things we're going to do:
1. Remove the crumbled plaster in the closet. The plaster is so bad that while we were removing the hanging rod, we heard plaster keys crumbling on the inside, which is not a good sign that this plaster is in good shape. So, we're going to knock it out, leave the laths and put up quarter-inch drywall over it. Then we're going to install a shelving solution so it can store more stuff.
2. Prepare the wall and trim surfaces by patching any holes, cracks, gashes, peeling paint, and other ugly stuff. Then paint it a cool earthy green.
3. Install a new light fixture.
4. Refinish the original 1920's hardwood floors.
5. Replace all switchplates and covers.
We can't wait to get our office ready for stuff, because the space holds all of our books (and we have a lot!) art, filing cabinet, media cabinet, TV, desk, 2 bookcases, a large comfy chair with an ottoman, lamp, side table and decorative stuff. We used this room alot at our last house, so we hope we can get it up to par.
A few things we're going to do:
1. Remove the crumbled plaster in the closet. The plaster is so bad that while we were removing the hanging rod, we heard plaster keys crumbling on the inside, which is not a good sign that this plaster is in good shape. So, we're going to knock it out, leave the laths and put up quarter-inch drywall over it. Then we're going to install a shelving solution so it can store more stuff.
2. Prepare the wall and trim surfaces by patching any holes, cracks, gashes, peeling paint, and other ugly stuff. Then paint it a cool earthy green.
3. Install a new light fixture.
4. Refinish the original 1920's hardwood floors.
5. Replace all switchplates and covers.
We can't wait to get our office ready for stuff, because the space holds all of our books (and we have a lot!) art, filing cabinet, media cabinet, TV, desk, 2 bookcases, a large comfy chair with an ottoman, lamp, side table and decorative stuff. We used this room alot at our last house, so we hope we can get it up to par.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Starting on the Office
Ok, I figured I needed some distractions so I think I'm going to start on the office. I'm going to get this room ready hopefully in 2 weeks (that's working only nights and weekends.)
Wish me luck. When I get all of this stuff out then I'll take some photos of the space. It's a decent sized room. It's going to be painted green (my favorite color!)
Wish me luck. When I get all of this stuff out then I'll take some photos of the space. It's a decent sized room. It's going to be painted green (my favorite color!)
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Alone. Microwave. Ice Cream.
Today, Scott left for his Knoxville Radiology rotation. He'll be there for a month, then he'll be in Charleston for the following month for another Radiology rotation. So for the most part, I'll be at home by myself for the next couple of months. He'll make it back into town on weekends while he's in Knoxville, but probably not at all while he's in Charleston. It kind of sucks, but that's what it takes.
As you know, our kitchen is empty at the moment. The only thing that is in there is the fridge. Thank goodness we at least have a fridge. We haven't had a microwave since we left our other house, so we went to Target and bought a microwave so that I may eat at home instead of at McDonald's every day. I seriously hate fast food especially the way it makes me feel after I eat it, but it's convenient and cheap. We were hesitant to buy a microwave for many reasons because of the renovation. We didn't want to purchase a free-standing microwave now because we were going to purchase an over-the-range later when we start on the kitchen. I'm kind of at the mercy of my health and my wallet. More so my health - my acid reflux/heart burn has been incredibly intense in the last few months. And I've put on a few pounds since the move, so I'm going back to the frozen dinner diet. I also renewed my gym membership so I'll try to hit that at least 3 to 4 times a week again. I like being busy, but home is supposed to be where I relax, and it's not been quite relaxing here at the Embry House lately.
While Scott is gone it will be difficult to get many tasks done. I'm just going to focus on some overlooked details and perhaps a room or two.
Guess I can go shopping for some frozen foods! Yay! More ice cream!
As you know, our kitchen is empty at the moment. The only thing that is in there is the fridge. Thank goodness we at least have a fridge. We haven't had a microwave since we left our other house, so we went to Target and bought a microwave so that I may eat at home instead of at McDonald's every day. I seriously hate fast food especially the way it makes me feel after I eat it, but it's convenient and cheap. We were hesitant to buy a microwave for many reasons because of the renovation. We didn't want to purchase a free-standing microwave now because we were going to purchase an over-the-range later when we start on the kitchen. I'm kind of at the mercy of my health and my wallet. More so my health - my acid reflux/heart burn has been incredibly intense in the last few months. And I've put on a few pounds since the move, so I'm going back to the frozen dinner diet. I also renewed my gym membership so I'll try to hit that at least 3 to 4 times a week again. I like being busy, but home is supposed to be where I relax, and it's not been quite relaxing here at the Embry House lately.
While Scott is gone it will be difficult to get many tasks done. I'm just going to focus on some overlooked details and perhaps a room or two.
Guess I can go shopping for some frozen foods! Yay! More ice cream!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Tasty Windows courtesy of IKEA
Well, they aren't that tasty just yet, but I do have some treatments up. Just a taste of the progress that's coming along on Locust.
Dining windows:
Some lamp shades we bought from IKEA: 
Living room window:
Storage boxes from IKEA:
View of the dining from the living:
Our first ceiling fan we've purchased for the house:
Dining windows:
Some lamp shades we bought from IKEA: 
Living room window:
Storage boxes from IKEA:
View of the dining from the living:
Our first ceiling fan we've purchased for the house:
Yea I know we need some crown - waiting on finding the right person to put it up.
The kitchen is gone baby gone!
Mmm...the smell of demolition. We sold our cabinets at the Tree Strees yard sale last Saturday to a really nice couple who is going to come in and take them out. We spent last night after we got back in from Charlotte taking out the appliances and cleaning out the cabinets.
They came in this morning and began removing remnants of this old home. Here are some tasty pix of the demo.
We took all of the appliances out in this photo.
Here are the lawn treasures from our old kitchen. I guess the buyers are airing them out before they pack them in their trailer to take back to Kingsport. They do have a 30 year old stench.
My nasty old kitchen sink....too bad we didn't have more time together. Guess I'll have to clean my paint brushes in the bathtub.
A view of the kitchen from the dining including the butler's pantry.
No more stank-nasty cabinets!
They came in this morning and began removing remnants of this old home. Here are some tasty pix of the demo.
We took all of the appliances out in this photo.
Here are the lawn treasures from our old kitchen. I guess the buyers are airing them out before they pack them in their trailer to take back to Kingsport. They do have a 30 year old stench.
My nasty old kitchen sink....too bad we didn't have more time together. Guess I'll have to clean my paint brushes in the bathtub.
A view of the kitchen from the dining including the butler's pantry.
No more stank-nasty cabinets!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
My first visit to IKEA!
I went to IKEA for the first time today in Charlotte, NC. I've heard a lot of great things about it, but the experience was by far better than what I imagined. The store was huuuuuuuge, and people from all over were visiting this particular store.
I was so excited, I couldn't help myself from snapping photos of the entrance - they made it feel like it was an expo center. When you walk in, they give you a tour map of the levels, and show you where to go. The whole store is like a museum tour of furniture (I remember telling Scott how I was drooling over everything I saw). The best part of the experience, was the prices. Everything was completely affordable.
Right after the tour guide person/lady told us where to go, this dresser is the first piece that I saw, that I think Scott and I may purchase a little later when we start on our bedroom.
We have all plans to do a white kitchen, so everywhere we go we are always looking for white cabinets. I hope that Scott and I agree to do an IKEA kitchen because it's so much cheaper and the style is highly functional. The quality is definitely better than the stock cabinets at Lowes or Home Depot.
I took a picture of this because the sink was sooo tiny and it was located in a tiny little bathroom but it didn't feel crowded because the equipment was soo tiny. That's what IKEA is all about - modular furniture for small spaces.
This room matches my personality. Highly organized chaos. I love to have alot of stuff, but organized.
So, I have a thing for chairs....cool chairs. I have to sit in as many as I can find, and give an opinion on each one. I tend to go for funky sophisticated chairs that I would actually put in my house. This one is just my size. :)
This is not a white kitchen but for some reason, I really liked the style. There's lots of storage in these cabinets.
I think I would die in a kitchen this small.
This is probably my favorite kitchen and the one I will consider purchasing for our house.
Aahhh....I'm incredibly wiped from spending 3 wonderful hours at IKEA. Time for some Swedish Meatballs!!!
Boy, I sure love this place!
I brought some goodies home....not Jelly Rats, but some Swedish cookies and chocolate.
Well, I did buy some stuff besides food. We bought curtains for every room in the house except the bathrooms. kitchen, and mud room. Window draperies are the BEST DEAL at IKEA. I got 10 panels for $150! Pottery Barn/RH/Crate&Barrel/etc. sells on average 1 panel for that price! AND these panels are 98" with hemming kit so you can hem to your desired lengths! My windows need 96" and I have not been able to find any 96" panels for less than $50ea panel. Not to mention I've only found 2 in Johnson City at Lowes.
I think we're going to head back tomorrow to pick up a few more decorative items. We found some art we'd like to pick up there. I think we're going to head up to Blowing Rock, NC and Boone to look at some art galleries. We're thinking about purchasing a statement piece for the living room.
I was so excited, I couldn't help myself from snapping photos of the entrance - they made it feel like it was an expo center. When you walk in, they give you a tour map of the levels, and show you where to go. The whole store is like a museum tour of furniture (I remember telling Scott how I was drooling over everything I saw). The best part of the experience, was the prices. Everything was completely affordable.
Right after the tour guide person/lady told us where to go, this dresser is the first piece that I saw, that I think Scott and I may purchase a little later when we start on our bedroom.
We have all plans to do a white kitchen, so everywhere we go we are always looking for white cabinets. I hope that Scott and I agree to do an IKEA kitchen because it's so much cheaper and the style is highly functional. The quality is definitely better than the stock cabinets at Lowes or Home Depot.
I took a picture of this because the sink was sooo tiny and it was located in a tiny little bathroom but it didn't feel crowded because the equipment was soo tiny. That's what IKEA is all about - modular furniture for small spaces.
This room matches my personality. Highly organized chaos. I love to have alot of stuff, but organized.
So, I have a thing for chairs....cool chairs. I have to sit in as many as I can find, and give an opinion on each one. I tend to go for funky sophisticated chairs that I would actually put in my house. This one is just my size. :)
This is not a white kitchen but for some reason, I really liked the style. There's lots of storage in these cabinets.
I think I would die in a kitchen this small.
This is probably my favorite kitchen and the one I will consider purchasing for our house.
Aahhh....I'm incredibly wiped from spending 3 wonderful hours at IKEA. Time for some Swedish Meatballs!!!
Boy, I sure love this place!
I brought some goodies home....not Jelly Rats, but some Swedish cookies and chocolate.
Well, I did buy some stuff besides food. We bought curtains for every room in the house except the bathrooms. kitchen, and mud room. Window draperies are the BEST DEAL at IKEA. I got 10 panels for $150! Pottery Barn/RH/Crate&Barrel/etc. sells on average 1 panel for that price! AND these panels are 98" with hemming kit so you can hem to your desired lengths! My windows need 96" and I have not been able to find any 96" panels for less than $50ea panel. Not to mention I've only found 2 in Johnson City at Lowes.I think we're going to head back tomorrow to pick up a few more decorative items. We found some art we'd like to pick up there. I think we're going to head up to Blowing Rock, NC and Boone to look at some art galleries. We're thinking about purchasing a statement piece for the living room.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
My first Shirt.Woot
Are you full enough? Indeed.
Ain’t got enough cash to get yourself fed?
I don’t care if you got no bread
I’ll rock your crackers, I’ll rock tortillas,
I’ll rock those buns that go around your wieners
I’ll be last minute or I’ll be pre-planned
I’ll feed a whole lunchroom, make a picnic grand
On the roof of your mouth, I’ll make you say “Damn”
Now ya’ll get ready cause here comes the jam
Lunch
LUNNN NNNNCH
We’ll feed the multitudes
And that’s nutrition that you can use
Lunch
LUNN NNNNCH
We’ll feed the multitudes
And that’s nutrition you can use
I add a little something and my something is sweet
I’m like a dessert that’s okay for you to eat
As a meal. Or at least when mixed
With the protein powered powerhouse that can make some people sick
You think you’re allergic? Hey, yo, walk fast
We’ll cut your crusts off and then we’ll both laugh
Cause me and P don’t care if you think our mix is icky
We ain’t goin’ home until the wheels of steel are sticky
Lunch
LUNNN NNNNCH
We’ll feed the multitudes
And that’s nutrition that you can use
Lunch
LUNN NNNNCH
We’ll feed the multitudes
And that’s nutrition you can use
Wear this shirt: when you’re making mashups in your bedroom. No, it’s okay, we know our target market here.
Don’t wear this shirt: when eating a grilled cheese. It would be unethical.
This shirt tells the world: “Girl, you don’t love me. You just love my chunky style.”
We call this color: I Had One Lemon Rind And My Mom Got Scared, And Now I’m The Official Lunch Of Bel-Air
Design Placement: Centered
Design Size:
3X – S: 11” x 11.15”
WXL - K4: 8.25” x 8.36”
Pantone Color(s): White – 5215C – 2587C – 5205C – 729C – 731C
Please check our sizing chart before you order. The Woot Tee follows a classic closer-fitting style. If you prefer a baggier look, order a larger size. If there is not a larger size, consider starting a belly-hanging-out trend.
Random Tasty Video #2
I went to Charleston with some friends for spring break in 2009. This video is just of a couple of guys climbing on each other.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Random Tasty Video #1
Ok, so this video was shot back in 2007 at a friends birthday party at my old house. We threw her a birthday party and somehow this video was shot with no sound. See if you can decipher what is said here.
Here's the picture that was taken:
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