Well it is time for another project at the old homestead. Hard to believe I've been living here almost 4 years.  Just last week, Facebook kindly reminded me that three years ago we were doing our bedroom renovation.

Last spring, we replaced all the windows.  Had a professional installation.  I love our new windows.

We added the new shutters too.

So this year we decided to tackle the front porch.  It is in need of a makeover because

1. it slopes towards the house instead of away
2. it is UGLY!!! 

I've always hated the railing and the steps to nowhere never made any sense.

So the plan is to close that side of and square off the planter.  I kind of like planter.  We are going to tear up the terracotta-ish tile top on the porch.  It too is ugly.  We really aren't sure what is under that tile monstrosity.  I guess we will find out.   

We are going to pour a simple slab.  New railings, new front door, and maybe some Adirondack chairs.  

The railing?  That is still under debate.  Might come down to budget.

Option one - The budget friendly choice

Troy's choice - but I think it is a bit to fancy for our house and all those little inserts are pricey.

My choice - wider pickets and clean lines.  

A different kind of renovation

Two years ago I find this table at the Salvation Army store.  I wasn't sure what I was going to do with it but I HAD to have it. I loved the lines and it was a steal!

Well now - yes it took two years - it looks like this...

It is painted with American Paint Company clay/chalk/mineral paint - an all natural product made in the good old US of A!  It is zero VOC, eco-friendly and solvent free. The only finish on it is wax.

And aren't these knob adorable?

The table itself measures 48 inches x 29 inches - the perfect size for a sectional.

I decided to sell it so if you are interested or know someone who is looking for a coffee table, let me know.  It is a one-of-kind piece.

One more look

The fireplace

This one is for you Diana

So the plan was to paint the living room.  Troy was clearing out furniture while I went to the grocery store.  I'm in line at the store checking out and I get a text notification.  Here is the jist of the message - Change of plans - have to tear down fireplace.

WHAT!!! Yes the fireplace was ugly and redoing it was in the future plan but NOW???  By the time I got home he was already tearing it out

bye bye ugly fireplace

Construction and chaos begins

framing done and wall board up

primed and ready for paint

my beautiful mahogany mantle - you can still see the saw marks

the finished product