Yep. No blogging for a long time. The worst part is so much has happened since the last post.
After beating Auburn, we traveled to Atlanta for the SEC Championship game. The University of Alabama played the University of Florida. A lot was at stake. The winner would go to Pasadena, CA to play in the National Championship game. Bama was the underdogs and all media focus was on Tim Tebow. And occasionally the rest of the Florida team. But, Bama came out of the tunnel with a mission. And they accomplished it. In fact, they dominated the entire game. The team played as a team and beat Tim Tebow. And the other players on the Florida team. It was one of the most exciting games I've ever seen. Now, Tide Guy and I are going with the Bama team to Pasadena to play Texas for the title.
The day after the game, we flew to Maui, HI for eight days of rest and relaxation. We stayed at a condo on the beach and enjoyed a great view, sand, warmth, and good food. We took a long, long drive on an extremely curvy road to Hana. We were gone most of the day. Although it was fun, we decided our trip was about enjoying the time rather than spending time in a vehicle. So, from then on, we didn't spend much time in the car. Maybe the next time, we go to Maui, we won't need to de-stress as much.
Everyone is done at the house. We still have a few little things that need to be done, but we started moving our things Christmas day. And, the day after. We will also move a little today. We should be mostly in by New Year's Day to enjoy the bowl games in our wonderful media room. We have watched two movies and it was great! Some furniture was delivered last weekend, but our master bedroom furniture won't arrive until after the first week in January 2010. We are going to put up a guest bed and sleep in that until our new furniture arrives.
There is still move to come, but it will have to wait.
Tide Gal
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
We Beat AU!
Barely. Bama played our big in-state rival yesterday, Auburn. We are ranked #2 and Auburn isn't ranked. But, in this game, ranking doesn't matter. This is a game of State Bragging Rights. For a WHOLE year. Many years, if one team isn't ranked, they have been able to knock down the other ranked team. Bama was predicted to win by double digits, but Auburn came out with some trickery. The end of the first quarter, Auburn was ahead 14-0. Unbelievable. They led the whole game. Bama was able to score a touchdown leaving Auburn with only seconds to score. They weren't able to do it, so we can still play for the National Championship if we beat Florida next weekend in Atlanta during the SEC Championship game.
Today, we are supposed to take my niece to Nashville for the night and see the Rockettes at the Grand Ole Opry. She may be a little sick, so we have to wait and see what happens at her doctor's appointment this morning.
Tide Guy is supposed to meet the painter this morning and go over what he needs to do. So frustrating.
In the adoption world, things are the same. No speed up. No big referral days. In fact, the time between referrals has had some delays.
Have a good day!
Tide Gal
Today, we are supposed to take my niece to Nashville for the night and see the Rockettes at the Grand Ole Opry. She may be a little sick, so we have to wait and see what happens at her doctor's appointment this morning.
Tide Guy is supposed to meet the painter this morning and go over what he needs to do. So frustrating.
In the adoption world, things are the same. No speed up. No big referral days. In fact, the time between referrals has had some delays.
Have a good day!
Tide Gal
Thursday, November 26, 2009
We Closed!! And Happy Thanksgiving.
Happy Turkey Day!!
We closed on our house on Tuesday, November 24, 2009. So now, Tide Guy and I and the bank own our house. Mostly the bank.
We are ready to move in, but the painter isn't finished. He needs to stain both sets of stairs and the stairs going down into the basement. He also needs to do touch up throughout the house and paint the columns in the foyer. He has at least a week of work to do. He seems to be putting us off. Tide Guy is supposed to meet him Saturday morning to go over what needs to be done.
Alabama plays Auburn on the day after Thanksgiving this year and the game is in Auburn. We had wanted to move some that day before the game, but since the paint isn't done, we have to wait.
Gas prices are up to $2.49. The economy is still horrible. Nothing new or any changes.
Black Friday is tomorrow and it seems stores are having great sales to make up for lagging sales prior to the holiday season.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving.
Tide Gal
We closed on our house on Tuesday, November 24, 2009. So now, Tide Guy and I and the bank own our house. Mostly the bank.
We are ready to move in, but the painter isn't finished. He needs to stain both sets of stairs and the stairs going down into the basement. He also needs to do touch up throughout the house and paint the columns in the foyer. He has at least a week of work to do. He seems to be putting us off. Tide Guy is supposed to meet him Saturday morning to go over what needs to be done.
Alabama plays Auburn on the day after Thanksgiving this year and the game is in Auburn. We had wanted to move some that day before the game, but since the paint isn't done, we have to wait.
Gas prices are up to $2.49. The economy is still horrible. Nothing new or any changes.
Black Friday is tomorrow and it seems stores are having great sales to make up for lagging sales prior to the holiday season.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving.
Tide Gal
Monday, November 23, 2009
We Close Tomorrow!
We close on the house tomorrow. So exciting. We still need the painter to come back for touch ups and to stain the two sets of steps & handrail. The basement isn't completely done, but is more done than I thought it would be before we closed.
Everything looks great and we are so happy to almost be done. Thanksgiving is in three days, so we will be limited when we can move our things. On Black Friday, Alabama plays Auburn, so that will limit our moving on that day, too. The next day, Saturday, we are going to Nashville to see the Rockettes.
The University of Alabama is undefeated right now and we are going to the SEC Championship game next Saturday. We are going on a bus ride with Traveling with the Tide and it should be very fun. The next day, we fly to Maui for 8 days. We need a nice vacation after working on the lot and house for almost 3 years.
My niece, Darby, had her 3rd birthday on November 10, 2009. She had a party with our family that day and a party for the kids the next Saturday. Among many other toys, books, and puzzles, she got a trampoline and had a blast with all her gifts.
In national news, gas prices still linger around $2.40 a gallon. The economy is horrible and unemployment is terrible.
Tide Gal
Everything looks great and we are so happy to almost be done. Thanksgiving is in three days, so we will be limited when we can move our things. On Black Friday, Alabama plays Auburn, so that will limit our moving on that day, too. The next day, Saturday, we are going to Nashville to see the Rockettes.
The University of Alabama is undefeated right now and we are going to the SEC Championship game next Saturday. We are going on a bus ride with Traveling with the Tide and it should be very fun. The next day, we fly to Maui for 8 days. We need a nice vacation after working on the lot and house for almost 3 years.
My niece, Darby, had her 3rd birthday on November 10, 2009. She had a party with our family that day and a party for the kids the next Saturday. Among many other toys, books, and puzzles, she got a trampoline and had a blast with all her gifts.
In national news, gas prices still linger around $2.40 a gallon. The economy is horrible and unemployment is terrible.
Tide Gal
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Day After
It is the day after Halloween. Yesterday, we spent the day at the house before the main event. I finished cleaning the floor and we are now ready for hardwood on Monday. The rain that came in under the floor has dried up. Tide Guy and the builder met to discuss the wetness on the floor. They think they have a few different solution and those will be addressed today.
We had sheet rock guys working yesterday and they got a lot accomplished in the basement. So much better than the first sheet rock guy we had.
The cable guy came at 4 and worked until about 7. Of course, he was all in the mud and had to go into the house. Tide Guy has promised me there isn't mud in the house on the floor I have spent hours cleaning. Hmmm..... Now, another contractor has to come and buy the cable line.
I went with my brother to take my niece trick or treating last night. She is three and had a blast until one house scared her. Then she was ready to go to her Granny's house. We did stop at one more house and they gave her fake vampire teeth. She loved them!! Her two favorite treats were the teeth and Play Doh. She ate one sucker, a pack of Whoopers, but played with the Play Doh and teeth for hours.
I have forgotten to mention Alabama football. Well, we are undefeated. We were playing great, but now our quarterback is losing his finesse. Our last two wins were not pretty. Mark Ingram is a potential candidate for the Heisman Trophy. He is up against some other great players, but Bama has never had a Heisman Trophy winner! Right now we are number two in the AP and number three in the BCS, but we were number one in the AP a few weeks ago. I would rather be number two right now. People seem to focus more on the number one team and find pleasure trying to knock them down. Plus, I really want to knock Tim Tebow and Florida off their number one spot. See, told you. Everyone wants to knock off the number one team!! And Alabama is tired of hearing about Tebow. He is often referred to as Superman and is the focus of his Florida team by his coach and the media. All Tebow all the time, and not much attention on the rest of the team.
Next week we have a hard game against LSU. Those LSU fans are fun, intense, interesting, and unique. And they have a good team. The game could make or break us.
Stay tuned.
Tide Gal
We had sheet rock guys working yesterday and they got a lot accomplished in the basement. So much better than the first sheet rock guy we had.
The cable guy came at 4 and worked until about 7. Of course, he was all in the mud and had to go into the house. Tide Guy has promised me there isn't mud in the house on the floor I have spent hours cleaning. Hmmm..... Now, another contractor has to come and buy the cable line.
I went with my brother to take my niece trick or treating last night. She is three and had a blast until one house scared her. Then she was ready to go to her Granny's house. We did stop at one more house and they gave her fake vampire teeth. She loved them!! Her two favorite treats were the teeth and Play Doh. She ate one sucker, a pack of Whoopers, but played with the Play Doh and teeth for hours.
I have forgotten to mention Alabama football. Well, we are undefeated. We were playing great, but now our quarterback is losing his finesse. Our last two wins were not pretty. Mark Ingram is a potential candidate for the Heisman Trophy. He is up against some other great players, but Bama has never had a Heisman Trophy winner! Right now we are number two in the AP and number three in the BCS, but we were number one in the AP a few weeks ago. I would rather be number two right now. People seem to focus more on the number one team and find pleasure trying to knock them down. Plus, I really want to knock Tim Tebow and Florida off their number one spot. See, told you. Everyone wants to knock off the number one team!! And Alabama is tired of hearing about Tebow. He is often referred to as Superman and is the focus of his Florida team by his coach and the media. All Tebow all the time, and not much attention on the rest of the team.
Next week we have a hard game against LSU. Those LSU fans are fun, intense, interesting, and unique. And they have a good team. The game could make or break us.
Stay tuned.
Tide Gal
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Happy Halloweens H
Today is Halloween and we are into the fall season. Today, we have to finish cleaning the floor to prepare for hardwood to be installed on Monday. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately?), we've had a lot of rain in the past few days. The water running off the roof above the master bedroom is over flowing over the gutter, hitting the deck, and some how coming inside under the wall or door. We have to get the floor dry before the hardwood is installed. I'm glad this is happening now BEFORE the hardwood is installed and then having to be repaired.
The deck railing is started, but the rain has delayed it's completion. The hot tub was to be delivered this week, but has been put off due to the rain. Some brick work has been delayed due to the rain. This has delayed the start of our drive way, too.
We are scheduled to close November 25, which is the day before Thanksgiving. Just over 3 weeks away. We have a lot of work to do and the weather isn't helping.
In the adoption world, we are not through review. That means our paperwork as been reviewed by the Chinese and there were no problems or questions with our application. So, we are still waiting. Still no speed up, but there is still hope.
Gas prices have jumped up to just over $2.50 a gallon. Unemployment is still terrible. And the public insurance option is back on the table.
Happy Halloween,
Tide Gal
The deck railing is started, but the rain has delayed it's completion. The hot tub was to be delivered this week, but has been put off due to the rain. Some brick work has been delayed due to the rain. This has delayed the start of our drive way, too.
We are scheduled to close November 25, which is the day before Thanksgiving. Just over 3 weeks away. We have a lot of work to do and the weather isn't helping.
In the adoption world, we are not through review. That means our paperwork as been reviewed by the Chinese and there were no problems or questions with our application. So, we are still waiting. Still no speed up, but there is still hope.
Gas prices have jumped up to just over $2.50 a gallon. Unemployment is still terrible. And the public insurance option is back on the table.
Happy Halloween,
Tide Gal
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Let's Play Some Football
Yesterday, I forgot to mention that Alabama is undefeated again this year. So far it has been a great year. We have junior quarterback and this is his first season as a starter. Right now we are ranked #3 and it looks as if we could be headed to the SEC Championship game again. We should be in a great bowl game, too. We already have room reservations in Atlanta for the SEC Championship game, and rooms in New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl and Pasadena for the National Championship game.
Yesterday, the tile guy said he could easily fix the pot filler. However, if we could find some kind of extension to change the filler so that it unfolds below the rather than above, it would be easier, quicker, and less expensive. Of course, we've looked and the company doesn't offer that option. Luckily, we do have enough extra materials to redo the area without having to buy more tile. He also has about 3/4 of the tile around the master tub now.
The builder finished the mantel in the master bedroom and both mantels are now ready for primer and paint.
Tide Gal
Yesterday, the tile guy said he could easily fix the pot filler. However, if we could find some kind of extension to change the filler so that it unfolds below the rather than above, it would be easier, quicker, and less expensive. Of course, we've looked and the company doesn't offer that option. Luckily, we do have enough extra materials to redo the area without having to buy more tile. He also has about 3/4 of the tile around the master tub now.
The builder finished the mantel in the master bedroom and both mantels are now ready for primer and paint.
Tide Gal
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Happy Fall
I think it is now officially fall even though it is still 80 degrees during the day. The leaves are falling and scarecrows are going up.
Our house is going, but going slow. Our tile guy is working on the tile around the master bath. Once he completes this, he would be done. Yes....would be. Turns out our plumber plumbed the pot filler in the kitchen too high. We didn't realize it until he installed the faucet. It is about 1/2 inch below the vent and so high it would look like a waterfall if we used it to fill a pot. It looks like the placement it wasn't planned well and obviously it wasn't. We want to change it so it is actually usable. So, we want our tile guy to chisel out the back splash, move the pipe, and redo his work. Two steps forward, one step back.
We are waiting on the counter in the bonus room to be completed. The cabinet guy will then order the granite top for that, the mudroom, and the laundry room. The plumber told us this week he needed that sink installed in the mudroom before he could turn on the water. We've been waiting for weeks for him to turn on the water. Now, he tells us he needs that done first. Of course, the counter top won't be in for about 3 weeks. Unfortunately, we thought the water would be on by now and had the port-a-potty removed. Perfect.
Our retaining wall is almost complete. In fact, it may be complete. My brother dug the trench for it last weekend and now it is done. We are so glad we hired that job out. It would have take us weeks to do what they did in 3-4 days.
In the adoption world from China, the rumor of a speed up has not happened yet. There is still a little hope that it will happen but there just isn't any way to know for sure. And we won't know until it happens or doesn't happen.
In national news, gas is running about $2.17 or maybe a little higher. Unemployment is still in the tank. Layoffs are everywhere in every aspect of the job market. The stock market has leveled out at the bottom. And the President just won the Nobel Peace Prize. He was nominated a few weeks after he was elected for the work he WILL do. Seriously? Seriously. When his name was announced as the winner, there was an obvious audible gasp in the audience. There was one in my house, too. He couldn't even get the Olympics to come to Chicago. In fact, Chicago was eliminated in the first round.
Ready for fall.....and to move into the house
Tide Gal
Our house is going, but going slow. Our tile guy is working on the tile around the master bath. Once he completes this, he would be done. Yes....would be. Turns out our plumber plumbed the pot filler in the kitchen too high. We didn't realize it until he installed the faucet. It is about 1/2 inch below the vent and so high it would look like a waterfall if we used it to fill a pot. It looks like the placement it wasn't planned well and obviously it wasn't. We want to change it so it is actually usable. So, we want our tile guy to chisel out the back splash, move the pipe, and redo his work. Two steps forward, one step back.
We are waiting on the counter in the bonus room to be completed. The cabinet guy will then order the granite top for that, the mudroom, and the laundry room. The plumber told us this week he needed that sink installed in the mudroom before he could turn on the water. We've been waiting for weeks for him to turn on the water. Now, he tells us he needs that done first. Of course, the counter top won't be in for about 3 weeks. Unfortunately, we thought the water would be on by now and had the port-a-potty removed. Perfect.
Our retaining wall is almost complete. In fact, it may be complete. My brother dug the trench for it last weekend and now it is done. We are so glad we hired that job out. It would have take us weeks to do what they did in 3-4 days.
In the adoption world from China, the rumor of a speed up has not happened yet. There is still a little hope that it will happen but there just isn't any way to know for sure. And we won't know until it happens or doesn't happen.
In national news, gas is running about $2.17 or maybe a little higher. Unemployment is still in the tank. Layoffs are everywhere in every aspect of the job market. The stock market has leveled out at the bottom. And the President just won the Nobel Peace Prize. He was nominated a few weeks after he was elected for the work he WILL do. Seriously? Seriously. When his name was announced as the winner, there was an obvious audible gasp in the audience. There was one in my house, too. He couldn't even get the Olympics to come to Chicago. In fact, Chicago was eliminated in the first round.
Ready for fall.....and to move into the house
Tide Gal
Monday, September 28, 2009
It's been a while!
I'm back. We've been so busy with the house, I haven't had any free time to update the blog.
The house is coming along, but it seems the closer we get, the harder it is to get the workers there. We got our appliances last week and the installation of the central vacuum was completed today. The mantle in the living room was installed last week and it is amazing. He did such a great job and the finished product is incredible. The deck is also coming along and also looks great. The jacuzzi tub was FINALLY installed and the fixtures went in today.
Alabama is having a great year for football this year. As of now, we are 4-0.
Gas is down to about $2.29 or less.
Much more later!
Tide Gal
The house is coming along, but it seems the closer we get, the harder it is to get the workers there. We got our appliances last week and the installation of the central vacuum was completed today. The mantle in the living room was installed last week and it is amazing. He did such a great job and the finished product is incredible. The deck is also coming along and also looks great. The jacuzzi tub was FINALLY installed and the fixtures went in today.
Alabama is having a great year for football this year. As of now, we are 4-0.
Gas is down to about $2.29 or less.
Much more later!
Tide Gal
Monday, September 7, 2009
Roll Tide & Happy Labor Day
I cannot believe it is football season! We spent the weekend in Atlanta for the Bama game against Virginia Tech. What a game. We arrived Friday and were surprised at the number of VA Tech Fans there. Many Bama fans could drive within a few hours, so we were hoping to catch up to their numbers. Of course we did. The Georgia Dome was electric. Once again, Bama fans were on one side and the other team on the other side. Our new quarterback did good and our defense is amazing. We struggled a little and got behind a few times, but never gave up. The fourth quarter finally went our way and the team showed why we were ranked #5 in the preseason. The final score was 34-24.
Our tile guy has finished the fireplaces and bathrooms. The tile for the kitchen back splashes have been ordered and could be here tomorrow. Once that is completed, our appliances can be installed.
We have all of the recessed lights installed. I will paint a few of the trim pieces today so they can be installed today. The white trim pieces are cheaper, so we bought those and I can paint them black within a few minutes. We also have a few light fixtures installed. We think we have all of the light fixtures and the electrician should get them all up this week. I have painted all of the medallions for the four chandeliers and they really look great.
I had a hard time finding mirrors for the bathrooms but was able to find one for the guest bathroom. We will have to have a beveled mirror in the Jack and Jill bath due to an outlet on the wall. The outlet is located in a space that takes away from the width of a mirror. So, we will have a beveled mirror and cut out a hole for the outlet. For the mudroom, I am distressing an old window frame that came out of a house in our historic neighborhood. Once I finish it today, I'll have a mirror installed and put it in the mudroom. I have ordered frames from a frame shop for the master bath and powder room. For the powder room, I picked a bamboo frame to go with the Asian-theme room.
Today, Tide Guy is working on the deck support. We are still waiting on the builder to get the columns up. Ugh.
Not much going on in the adoption. The wait hasn't sped up yet. This is the time frame when the speed up was predicted, so we will see.
Gas prices are down to about $2.39 and lower in some places.
Have a nice day off on Labor Day. We will work all day at the house!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Our tile guy has finished the fireplaces and bathrooms. The tile for the kitchen back splashes have been ordered and could be here tomorrow. Once that is completed, our appliances can be installed.
We have all of the recessed lights installed. I will paint a few of the trim pieces today so they can be installed today. The white trim pieces are cheaper, so we bought those and I can paint them black within a few minutes. We also have a few light fixtures installed. We think we have all of the light fixtures and the electrician should get them all up this week. I have painted all of the medallions for the four chandeliers and they really look great.
I had a hard time finding mirrors for the bathrooms but was able to find one for the guest bathroom. We will have to have a beveled mirror in the Jack and Jill bath due to an outlet on the wall. The outlet is located in a space that takes away from the width of a mirror. So, we will have a beveled mirror and cut out a hole for the outlet. For the mudroom, I am distressing an old window frame that came out of a house in our historic neighborhood. Once I finish it today, I'll have a mirror installed and put it in the mudroom. I have ordered frames from a frame shop for the master bath and powder room. For the powder room, I picked a bamboo frame to go with the Asian-theme room.
Today, Tide Guy is working on the deck support. We are still waiting on the builder to get the columns up. Ugh.
Not much going on in the adoption. The wait hasn't sped up yet. This is the time frame when the speed up was predicted, so we will see.
Gas prices are down to about $2.39 and lower in some places.
Have a nice day off on Labor Day. We will work all day at the house!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Updates....
Okay..the paint is done except for touch ups when everything else is done.
The tile guy has finished putting the granite tile on one fireplace and half of the other. He will probably finish tomorrow, then be able to grout on Monday. He is about halfway done with the master shower and will then grout.
The plumber/electrician started this week and has put in outlets and covers this week. He has quite a bit to do, but he is at least on the job. We bought the toilets Friday night and they are sitting outside the bathrooms ready for installation. Of course, we had to buy oil rubbed bronze handles. No silver handles for us. I think we have all the light fixtures with one on the way.
The granite caps for the brick columns under the deck were ordered on Tuesday and delivered on Friday. Tide Guy picked up the columns today. I can't wait to see them finished. The completed project outside the basement will be five 3 foot tall column of bricks, a 4 inch granite square slab on top of each, and a white column on top of the granite that will help support the deck.
The builder has also started installing our iron railing. It is gorgeous and looks amazing! He needs a part that is going to have to be ordered or, with any luck, found in another store. I think it will probably have to be ordered and it may take a week or more to be delivered.
More later.
Tide Gal
The tile guy has finished putting the granite tile on one fireplace and half of the other. He will probably finish tomorrow, then be able to grout on Monday. He is about halfway done with the master shower and will then grout.
The plumber/electrician started this week and has put in outlets and covers this week. He has quite a bit to do, but he is at least on the job. We bought the toilets Friday night and they are sitting outside the bathrooms ready for installation. Of course, we had to buy oil rubbed bronze handles. No silver handles for us. I think we have all the light fixtures with one on the way.
The granite caps for the brick columns under the deck were ordered on Tuesday and delivered on Friday. Tide Guy picked up the columns today. I can't wait to see them finished. The completed project outside the basement will be five 3 foot tall column of bricks, a 4 inch granite square slab on top of each, and a white column on top of the granite that will help support the deck.
The builder has also started installing our iron railing. It is gorgeous and looks amazing! He needs a part that is going to have to be ordered or, with any luck, found in another store. I think it will probably have to be ordered and it may take a week or more to be delivered.
More later.
Tide Gal
Sunday, August 16, 2009
More House News
Well, since we had so many problems with the sheet rock and the semi-gloss paint showing all the imperfections, the painters took longer than two days into this week. However, they finished yesterday but will have to return at a later time to do touch-ups and such. Finally!
The tile is getting close to completion and what is done looks amazing. Our tile guy is finishing the master bath and has started the shower. Once he is done with the floor in the bath, our plumber can install all the toilets and finish the rest of the plumbing. I took off one day this week and ordered the granite for the fireplace. It arrived from Nashville the following day. Tide Guy will pick up the granite tomorrow and hopefully the tile guy will be able to complete the fireplaces this week. The builder has completed the mantle and he should get it installed within a day or two.
Yesterday, Tide Guy worked on steps and landings for the deck yesterday. I did a lot of clean up, sweeping, picking up trash, etc. I also painted the medallions for the ceilings above the chandeliers.
We are getting there. Hopefully within 6-8 weeks we should be in.
More later,
Tide Gal
The tile is getting close to completion and what is done looks amazing. Our tile guy is finishing the master bath and has started the shower. Once he is done with the floor in the bath, our plumber can install all the toilets and finish the rest of the plumbing. I took off one day this week and ordered the granite for the fireplace. It arrived from Nashville the following day. Tide Guy will pick up the granite tomorrow and hopefully the tile guy will be able to complete the fireplaces this week. The builder has completed the mantle and he should get it installed within a day or two.
Yesterday, Tide Guy worked on steps and landings for the deck yesterday. I did a lot of clean up, sweeping, picking up trash, etc. I also painted the medallions for the ceilings above the chandeliers.
We are getting there. Hopefully within 6-8 weeks we should be in.
More later,
Tide Gal
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Basement Update
The crew for our basement waterproofing finished yesterday. They jackhammered all the concrete and dug down into the dirt around the inside perimeter of the basement. That meant a lot of dust, lots of busted up concrete, and dirt/clay was on the floor of the basement. We were very concerned how we were going to get all the debris out of the basement and didn't know how we were going to dispose of it. When the crew completed the job, they either used to debris to fill spaces or took it with them. They also cleaned the floor and the basement was actually cleaner when they left than when they arrived. We were extremely impressed with them. They were very respectful, knowledgeable, and professional.
The tile guy also worked and got a lot done. He should finish the floors in a few days, then will work on the master shower and the tile around the fire places.
The painters worked, but only did another coat on an existing color. Today they are supposed to finally put a coat of color on the primer in the living room.
Have a good day,
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
The tile guy also worked and got a lot done. He should finish the floors in a few days, then will work on the master shower and the tile around the fire places.
The painters worked, but only did another coat on an existing color. Today they are supposed to finally put a coat of color on the primer in the living room.
Have a good day,
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Even More Paint & Some Tile
We have more paint. The painters said they should be done by Wednesday of next week. Unfortunately, it will be a few days longer. They used egg shell paint and when applied to the wall, it showed all of the mistakes of our sheet rock. And there are a lot of mistakes. Needless to say, we are extremely unhappy with the job the sheet rock guy did. Now, they are going to repaint the larger rooms (living room, bonus room, etc.) and hallways with flat paint. We are going to have to install some crown mold and trim in the bonus room in the creases of the weird roof lines. The sheet rock job is horrible in those places. Yep. Another unexpected expense. We will just live with the imperfections of a few guest bedroom until we repaint in the future. Needless to say, this has cut into our pocket severely. We may be sitting on lawn furniture in the living room. Ok. It isn't that bad, but we won't have everything when we move into the house. Our budget allowed furniture when we started, but now, things have changed. A much larger expense is the basement problems. Ugh. The foundation people showed up yesterday and began jackhammering our basement floor. They will install a large sump pump and trays along the walls to catch water. They are also going to line the crawl space and seal the basement in other ways. They will be back today and possibly Monday. Yep. Cutting into the budget. Severely. There is also a lot of busted concrete and dirt (clay) in the basement. I guess we will get the pleasure of disposing of this debris. I just don't know how. There is a lot!
The tile guy is moving along nicely and he is doing a tremendous job. It looks great. He is planning to spread the grout today in the two guest baths and the laundry room. He also hopes to put the heat strips in for the heated floor in the master bath. He will be done with the floors in a few days and can begin the master shower and tub.
Tide Guy has installed the ceiling fans and many of the recessed light trim pieces. Today, we plan to install more of these. I will paint the trim of the recessed lights for the bonus room. The ceiling is a dark gray, so I have some black paint.
In adoption news, the rumors are the speed up should begin any time from this month until November. So, we'll see. Right now, there hasn't been any real signs from past referrals to indicate a speed up. All we can do is wait and see.
We also received our season tickets for Alabama football this week! In four weeks we will be in Atlanta for the UA/VA Tech game. I hope we won't be stressed with the house. Hopefully, we can go and enjoy the weekend with our friends.
In other news, gas prices are at $2.44 and Sonia Sotomayer will be sworn in as a Supreme Court Justice today. Great. Trying to be nice here but we totally disagree with this decision for many reason.
Okay. Have a great weekend.
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
The tile guy is moving along nicely and he is doing a tremendous job. It looks great. He is planning to spread the grout today in the two guest baths and the laundry room. He also hopes to put the heat strips in for the heated floor in the master bath. He will be done with the floors in a few days and can begin the master shower and tub.
Tide Guy has installed the ceiling fans and many of the recessed light trim pieces. Today, we plan to install more of these. I will paint the trim of the recessed lights for the bonus room. The ceiling is a dark gray, so I have some black paint.
In adoption news, the rumors are the speed up should begin any time from this month until November. So, we'll see. Right now, there hasn't been any real signs from past referrals to indicate a speed up. All we can do is wait and see.
We also received our season tickets for Alabama football this week! In four weeks we will be in Atlanta for the UA/VA Tech game. I hope we won't be stressed with the house. Hopefully, we can go and enjoy the weekend with our friends.
In other news, gas prices are at $2.44 and Sonia Sotomayer will be sworn in as a Supreme Court Justice today. Great. Trying to be nice here but we totally disagree with this decision for many reason.
Okay. Have a great weekend.
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Saturday, July 25, 2009
More Paint!!!
We have more paint. The problem is it is going very slow due to our sheet rock guy. His work has been less than stellar and our painters have to spend a lot of time repairing his mistakes. In fact, I told Tide Guy that several of our rooms look like a child with chicken pox and the mom has put Calamine lotion in spots all over his body. Now, picture that on walls. The sheet rock guy was supposed to return several times for repairs. The painters would tell him where repairs were needed. He would do a few of them then disappear. It is driving our painter nuts. He finally said it would be easier if they fixed it instead of only getting a few repairs from time to time.
The columns on the front have been painted and the front door has been stained. It makes the front of the house look great and complete.
The tile guy is supposed to start Monday. Fingers crossed.
Tide Guy is meeting the mason this morning about the columns in the back yard to support the deck. We will have brick bases, limestone or granite on top, then a column.
The decking material has arrived and installation should begin next week.
The cabinet man is making us a vanity for the mud room. We got a cast iron deep sink.
A few neighbors came last night and told us all the neighbors are dying to get in to see the house. In fact, they told us we were the talk of the neighborhood. I guess that is good.
We were also informed by the Architectural board that stained and stamped concrete drive ways are now permitted. We requested this change. Prior to this, only pea gravel and blacktop drives were allowed. Also, any concrete not under a cover could not be white. It had to be "natural" looking. We hated the pea gravel and blacktop and did not want to pay for either. The pea gravel is so 70s, cracks easily, hurts bare feet, and basically is just ugly. The black top is okay, but gets too hot. So, we will be the first house in the subdivision with a stained and/or stamped concrete drive.
In the adoption world, only two days were referred this month. We are now up to March 22, 2006. Not great, but March is a large referral month.
In national news, gas prices are still dropping. Yeah. Unemployment is low (still), the economy is in the tank (still), and OB is pushing his socialist insurance plan (still).
We are off to Nashville with friends for a break from the house.
Tide Gal
The columns on the front have been painted and the front door has been stained. It makes the front of the house look great and complete.
The tile guy is supposed to start Monday. Fingers crossed.
Tide Guy is meeting the mason this morning about the columns in the back yard to support the deck. We will have brick bases, limestone or granite on top, then a column.
The decking material has arrived and installation should begin next week.
The cabinet man is making us a vanity for the mud room. We got a cast iron deep sink.
A few neighbors came last night and told us all the neighbors are dying to get in to see the house. In fact, they told us we were the talk of the neighborhood. I guess that is good.
We were also informed by the Architectural board that stained and stamped concrete drive ways are now permitted. We requested this change. Prior to this, only pea gravel and blacktop drives were allowed. Also, any concrete not under a cover could not be white. It had to be "natural" looking. We hated the pea gravel and blacktop and did not want to pay for either. The pea gravel is so 70s, cracks easily, hurts bare feet, and basically is just ugly. The black top is okay, but gets too hot. So, we will be the first house in the subdivision with a stained and/or stamped concrete drive.
In the adoption world, only two days were referred this month. We are now up to March 22, 2006. Not great, but March is a large referral month.
In national news, gas prices are still dropping. Yeah. Unemployment is low (still), the economy is in the tank (still), and OB is pushing his socialist insurance plan (still).
We are off to Nashville with friends for a break from the house.
Tide Gal
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Paint
Things are coming together at the house. Slowly, but it is coming together. Most of the ceilings and a few walls have been painted . Some of the sheet rock is not right, so some areas of the paint have repairs. Not very pretty, but at least the first coat is up. The bonus room is a disaster now. The plan was to do it in grey to provide darkness for better viewing of movies. The wall surrounding the screen is Black Fox. However, the Dovetail gray is purple. A light purple with a shade of gray. Yuk. This will have to be repainted a real gray.
Yesterday, Tide Guy installed the two ceiling fans and recessed light trim in the living room.
The deck is coming along. Most of the drainage materials are installed and the deck surface is scheduled to be delivered tomorrow. Tide Guy was supposed to be out of town this week, but has changed his trip so he can be here this week. When the deck materials are delivered, we are supposed to supply labor to unload the truck. My brother and his friend, who are building the deck, agreed to help unload the truck. Now, Tide Guy has decided to be there.
Our tile guy said he would start tomorrow. We'll believe that when we see him. He is fabulous at his trade, but is so busy he doesn't always show up when he says he will.
Gas prices have dropped down to about $2.29 a gallon. Great news.
Yesterday, Tide Guy installed the two ceiling fans and recessed light trim in the living room.
The deck is coming along. Most of the drainage materials are installed and the deck surface is scheduled to be delivered tomorrow. Tide Guy was supposed to be out of town this week, but has changed his trip so he can be here this week. When the deck materials are delivered, we are supposed to supply labor to unload the truck. My brother and his friend, who are building the deck, agreed to help unload the truck. Now, Tide Guy has decided to be there.
Our tile guy said he would start tomorrow. We'll believe that when we see him. He is fabulous at his trade, but is so busy he doesn't always show up when he says he will.
Gas prices have dropped down to about $2.29 a gallon. Great news.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Painted Coffers!!
The first coat of "Tony Taupe" was applied on the coffered ceiling yesterday. I love it!! I watched them climb all the way up the scaffolds to the top of our 19 foot ceilings to apply the first stroke. I cannot wait for the "Van Dyke Brown" to go onto the walls. But, the painters will do all the ceilings first.
Yesterday, we cleared out all the debris from the house, ground, and garage. So much waste. We also moved a bunch of fallen brick to another spot about 12 feet away. Fun, fun, fun.
We also tried to figure out what tile we will use for the master shower and back splash in the kitchen.
After church, we should have more of this kind of fun.
Yesterday, we cleared out all the debris from the house, ground, and garage. So much waste. We also moved a bunch of fallen brick to another spot about 12 feet away. Fun, fun, fun.
We also tried to figure out what tile we will use for the master shower and back splash in the kitchen.
After church, we should have more of this kind of fun.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Granite!!
Our granite was installed on Thursday and it looks amazing. The Santa Cecilia in the kitchen and baths looks great with the cabinets. The Black Angola looks amazing on the kitchen island and in the bonus room. We are so pleased.
The deck is coming along. Most of the framing is done. The decking materials and drainage system are ordered and will be here this week. The sink for the mudroom is ordered and hopefully the cabinet man can make a cabinet for it very soon.
The trim paint is basically done and we hope they are able to start painting the coffered ceiling today.
Our trip to Saint Thomas in August fell apart. Our plan was to return to Atlanta on a Thursday and start the Alabama football season the following day. Our friends would have meet us in Atlanta on Friday for the football weekend against Virginia Tech. The airline sent an e-mail that our return flight was changed to arrive on Saturday at 10pm. That is the night of the game and we would land after the game ended!! No way!! We could not get another flight, so we cancelled the trip. Flights around that time were almost double in cost. So, we are now planning a trip to Maui in December. I cannot wait! I wish the trip was sooner, but it is probably better to wait and make sure we are settled into the house before taking off for several days.
In other news, gas prices are down to about $2.39 a gallon.
Well, we have a fun day planned cleaning at the house!! But it is looking great!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
The deck is coming along. Most of the framing is done. The decking materials and drainage system are ordered and will be here this week. The sink for the mudroom is ordered and hopefully the cabinet man can make a cabinet for it very soon.
The trim paint is basically done and we hope they are able to start painting the coffered ceiling today.
Our trip to Saint Thomas in August fell apart. Our plan was to return to Atlanta on a Thursday and start the Alabama football season the following day. Our friends would have meet us in Atlanta on Friday for the football weekend against Virginia Tech. The airline sent an e-mail that our return flight was changed to arrive on Saturday at 10pm. That is the night of the game and we would land after the game ended!! No way!! We could not get another flight, so we cancelled the trip. Flights around that time were almost double in cost. So, we are now planning a trip to Maui in December. I cannot wait! I wish the trip was sooner, but it is probably better to wait and make sure we are settled into the house before taking off for several days.
In other news, gas prices are down to about $2.39 a gallon.
Well, we have a fun day planned cleaning at the house!! But it is looking great!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Happy 4th of July, 2009!!
Today is the 4th of July.......cue fireworks. We plan to go watch fireworks on the river tonight. I can't wait.
We are getting the trim painted at the house. I've picked out the paint colors, but need to make some final decisions on ceiling colors and tell the painters. I also need to talk with a lady about some custom painting in the powder room and office.
The deck is coming along and luckily we've picked out the hot tub. Had we waited on the hot tub, we may have had to redo some of the lower deck to fit the tub's depth. I'm so glad we don't have to change that. The deck is huge! I cannot wait to enjoy it.
Yesterday we ordered the hardwood and talked to the installer. He is ready to start whenever we need him.
Since we have had some leaks and flooding in the basement, we decided to waterproof the basement to avoid future disasters. Or try to avoid disasters. Unfortunately, we had to remove all the framing and some plumbing in the basement. The cost to have this waterproofing done is staggering. And a cost we didn't anticipate. Ugh. It will be cheaper to do now than later and may prevent damage and loss of things in the basement with a flooded basement.
In national news, gas prices have dropped a little. Prices at our local Race Way is $2.43. Sarah Palin announced last night she was stepping down as govenor of Alaska. Her excuses are a bit lame. Some reporters say she is preparing for a run for president and others say there are hidden factors she is not disclosing.
Happy 4th!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
We are getting the trim painted at the house. I've picked out the paint colors, but need to make some final decisions on ceiling colors and tell the painters. I also need to talk with a lady about some custom painting in the powder room and office.
The deck is coming along and luckily we've picked out the hot tub. Had we waited on the hot tub, we may have had to redo some of the lower deck to fit the tub's depth. I'm so glad we don't have to change that. The deck is huge! I cannot wait to enjoy it.
Yesterday we ordered the hardwood and talked to the installer. He is ready to start whenever we need him.
Since we have had some leaks and flooding in the basement, we decided to waterproof the basement to avoid future disasters. Or try to avoid disasters. Unfortunately, we had to remove all the framing and some plumbing in the basement. The cost to have this waterproofing done is staggering. And a cost we didn't anticipate. Ugh. It will be cheaper to do now than later and may prevent damage and loss of things in the basement with a flooded basement.
In national news, gas prices have dropped a little. Prices at our local Race Way is $2.43. Sarah Palin announced last night she was stepping down as govenor of Alaska. Her excuses are a bit lame. Some reporters say she is preparing for a run for president and others say there are hidden factors she is not disclosing.
Happy 4th!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Sunday, June 28, 2009
The Trim Work is Done!!
Last week, I flew out to Arizona to visit Tide Guy for several days. We stayed at a fabulous resort that even had a lazy river. I got a wonderful massage and we had some great salsa and food, went to Tombstone and Bisbee, relaxed by the pool, and overall had a great time. One restaurant had the best salsa ever. It was made table side to taste. We got the ingredients and can't wait to try it ourselves.
Our trim work is finally done and we are so happy with the results. The coffered ceiling is fabulous. The painter has started painting the trim and I have the basics of the paint colors picked. This week, I ordered the kitchen sink. Yesterday, I bought the kitchen faucet and a faucet for the bathrooms. We are using the same faucet for all the bath sinks. We also ordered the bar sink and faucet for the bonus room last night. Our cabinet man needs the specs and template for the sinks and faucets to install the granite counter tops this week.
About two months ago, I met with a lady and commissioned her to make two stain glass window inserts for the master bath. A large one to go over the spa tub and a smaller one in the water closet. With help from her, I designed the window and picked the different types and colors of glass. The windows were installed Friday and they look great!!
It is hot and dry. It is in the mid 90s everyday. My garden looks okay, but could really use a good rain.
Gas is steady at $2.49 a gallon. And Farrah Fawcett died from cancer. Unfortunately, she died a few hours before Michael Jackson, so her death was a very small bye line in the news.
Our trim work is finally done and we are so happy with the results. The coffered ceiling is fabulous. The painter has started painting the trim and I have the basics of the paint colors picked. This week, I ordered the kitchen sink. Yesterday, I bought the kitchen faucet and a faucet for the bathrooms. We are using the same faucet for all the bath sinks. We also ordered the bar sink and faucet for the bonus room last night. Our cabinet man needs the specs and template for the sinks and faucets to install the granite counter tops this week.
About two months ago, I met with a lady and commissioned her to make two stain glass window inserts for the master bath. A large one to go over the spa tub and a smaller one in the water closet. With help from her, I designed the window and picked the different types and colors of glass. The windows were installed Friday and they look great!!
It is hot and dry. It is in the mid 90s everyday. My garden looks okay, but could really use a good rain.
Gas is steady at $2.49 a gallon. And Farrah Fawcett died from cancer. Unfortunately, she died a few hours before Michael Jackson, so her death was a very small bye line in the news.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Deck and Coffers
Our coffered ceiling is almost done and it looks fabulous. Since we decided to do the coffered ceiling after the electrical was done, the ceiling fan & some light boxes are off center in the coffers. Our builders will move the boxes to center them. They still have a some trim work to do, but that should only take a day or so. I think.
I am meeting with some designers on Tuesday to get some help on paint colors to go with our Persian rugs we bought when we lived overseas. My five year dream of a red leather sofa for the living room is squashed. I realized the rug for the living room has a red in it that will clash with most reds. It has been too difficult to find any red that will compliment the red in the rug.
This week, the painter started caulking and filling nail holes. He will paint the trim and columns before starting the paint on the walls and ceilings. My brother and his crew started our massive deck this week. I am meeting the bricker in an hour to discuss the pad for the air conditioner units, the brick wall to conceal the units, and the front steps.
Tide Guy is out of town for work and I am flying out Wednesday evening to spend five days with him. With neither of us here to take care of the house decisions is causing me some anxiety. I am trying to anticipate those problems and take care of them before I leave.
Gas is up to $2.53 a gallon. It is going up fast!
Have a good weekend!
Tide Gal
I am meeting with some designers on Tuesday to get some help on paint colors to go with our Persian rugs we bought when we lived overseas. My five year dream of a red leather sofa for the living room is squashed. I realized the rug for the living room has a red in it that will clash with most reds. It has been too difficult to find any red that will compliment the red in the rug.
This week, the painter started caulking and filling nail holes. He will paint the trim and columns before starting the paint on the walls and ceilings. My brother and his crew started our massive deck this week. I am meeting the bricker in an hour to discuss the pad for the air conditioner units, the brick wall to conceal the units, and the front steps.
Tide Guy is out of town for work and I am flying out Wednesday evening to spend five days with him. With neither of us here to take care of the house decisions is causing me some anxiety. I am trying to anticipate those problems and take care of them before I leave.
Gas is up to $2.53 a gallon. It is going up fast!
Have a good weekend!
Tide Gal
Saturday, June 6, 2009
19 Months
Today is our 19th month LID anniversary. Almost two years. Nuff said.
China is still confusing the waiting families as they didn't refer the end of May as we all thought they would. Now, we wait to see what happens and when it will happen.
Our builders are doing more trim and we have much more to do. I think they will start the coffered ceiling next week which will be so exciting to see. All four columns are installed, but still need to be painted. Right now they are the same color as our stucco and front door, which still needs to be stained. I'm sure all the neighbors are confused about our brown columns with the white coppers and bases. HA. Yesterday, I picked out our granite slabs and they will be sent to the fabricators.
In national news, gas prices are going up. Gas at our local Race Way is $2.39. Ugh. Not good. The economy isn't great and neither is the unemployment rate.
On with the weekend.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
China is still confusing the waiting families as they didn't refer the end of May as we all thought they would. Now, we wait to see what happens and when it will happen.
Our builders are doing more trim and we have much more to do. I think they will start the coffered ceiling next week which will be so exciting to see. All four columns are installed, but still need to be painted. Right now they are the same color as our stucco and front door, which still needs to be stained. I'm sure all the neighbors are confused about our brown columns with the white coppers and bases. HA. Yesterday, I picked out our granite slabs and they will be sent to the fabricators.
In national news, gas prices are going up. Gas at our local Race Way is $2.39. Ugh. Not good. The economy isn't great and neither is the unemployment rate.
On with the weekend.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
5K Runners!!
Tide Guy and I ran in a 5K on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2009. He can easily run the 5K race, but once we arrived, he wished he had signed up for the 10k. My goal months ago was to complete the race. I recently decided I wanted to run the complete race without having to walk any. And I did it. I was so proud of myself. It isn't that I'm not athletic, but rather that I am not a runner. My time was just over 40 minutes and Tide Guy finished just over 28 minutes. Now, we've both set goals to run the 10K next year.
Three of my friends also completed the race. We are awesome. I was fine before the race, but just a few moments before the start gun, I looked at my friend and said, "What am I doing here?" Yes, I had a little moment there! But, I did it. I could have run further, but possibly only a mile. I could not have run faster.
We had so much fun. I was totally excited and felt great after the race. I guess that is what is called a "runner's high". Afterwards, we went to Lowe's and Home Depot because they gave a discount to military for Memorial Day. We bought a few things for the house. We finally got home around 2 and I was wiped out. The runner's high hit a low!
In house news, more of the cabinets and cabinet trim were installed yesterday. The black distressed hood looks amazing beside the cherry cabinets. We also told the cabinet man to build us a small island.
After seeing the snake at the new house Friday, Tide Guy and I had one waiting on us when we got home Saturday night. Tide Guy killed his first snake while I hid in the house. Monday afternoon, we walked to Mom's for a cook out and found one in their yard. So, Tide Guy killed another snake. That is three snakes in four days for me!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Three of my friends also completed the race. We are awesome. I was fine before the race, but just a few moments before the start gun, I looked at my friend and said, "What am I doing here?" Yes, I had a little moment there! But, I did it. I could have run further, but possibly only a mile. I could not have run faster.
We had so much fun. I was totally excited and felt great after the race. I guess that is what is called a "runner's high". Afterwards, we went to Lowe's and Home Depot because they gave a discount to military for Memorial Day. We bought a few things for the house. We finally got home around 2 and I was wiped out. The runner's high hit a low!
In house news, more of the cabinets and cabinet trim were installed yesterday. The black distressed hood looks amazing beside the cherry cabinets. We also told the cabinet man to build us a small island.
After seeing the snake at the new house Friday, Tide Guy and I had one waiting on us when we got home Saturday night. Tide Guy killed his first snake while I hid in the house. Monday afternoon, we walked to Mom's for a cook out and found one in their yard. So, Tide Guy killed another snake. That is three snakes in four days for me!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Pigs and Snakes
The CCAA actually referred through March 14, 2006. That will be great news if they refer another 6 or so days again the end of this month. Families arriving in China now, along with other passengers, have their temperatures taken before they get off the plane as a precaution.
Big news! I had to take the builders their check on Friday. While I was there, the builder asked some questions. One question was related to the mud room. As we entered the mud room, he saw a snake. Yep. He first asked if Tide Guy put a fake snake in there. Then he said it was real. I ran out the door. He and his brother killed it. It was a three foot chicken snake. He later said he shouldn't have killed it because it would kill bad snakes. I am terrified of snakes and yesterday had Tide Guy go into the house and check for snakes before I went inside.
There isn't much more to tell on the house other than there is more trim installed. And we have a lot more that is still needs to be installed. The columns are not up yet and I am very excited to see those.
Big news! I had to take the builders their check on Friday. While I was there, the builder asked some questions. One question was related to the mud room. As we entered the mud room, he saw a snake. Yep. He first asked if Tide Guy put a fake snake in there. Then he said it was real. I ran out the door. He and his brother killed it. It was a three foot chicken snake. He later said he shouldn't have killed it because it would kill bad snakes. I am terrified of snakes and yesterday had Tide Guy go into the house and check for snakes before I went inside.
There isn't much more to tell on the house other than there is more trim installed. And we have a lot more that is still needs to be installed. The columns are not up yet and I am very excited to see those.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Referrals!!
Rumors are floating around the internet and blogs that China has referred through March 15, 2006. If this turns out to be true, the number of days referred will be 7. This sounds a little positive, but considering it has been about 6 weeks since they referred last, it isn't great. If they would send out a 7 day batch of referrals the end of this month too, that would be awesome.
Of course, the reason for the delay in referrals is the swine flu. It seemed the swine flu had slowed and was dying away. There has been a resurgence in the last week or so. A vice principal at a middle school in New York died last week and he didn't have any existing conditions (example: heart problems) that would escalate the illness. Stories like this has caused China to restrict people entering their country. CCAA has to abide by these restrictions. However, CCAA has delayed many referrals, travel appointments, and matching without giving any explanation. All we've heard here are rumors and speculations. Nothing official. Even our agencies aren't told anything.
Several months ago, we heard of a potential speed up in this process. All signs were positive. But, something always seems to happen to prevent a speed up. Earthquakes. Severe cold and snow. The Olympics. Swine Flu. Will we ever get through this process? And, if we do, how long will it take?
Again, with no answers, I am so glad Tide Guy and I did not announce this information when we decided to adopt from China. If we have all these questions, we would expect to be bombarded with the same questions from everyone who we told. That was a great decision we made!
On with the delay....
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Of course, the reason for the delay in referrals is the swine flu. It seemed the swine flu had slowed and was dying away. There has been a resurgence in the last week or so. A vice principal at a middle school in New York died last week and he didn't have any existing conditions (example: heart problems) that would escalate the illness. Stories like this has caused China to restrict people entering their country. CCAA has to abide by these restrictions. However, CCAA has delayed many referrals, travel appointments, and matching without giving any explanation. All we've heard here are rumors and speculations. Nothing official. Even our agencies aren't told anything.
Several months ago, we heard of a potential speed up in this process. All signs were positive. But, something always seems to happen to prevent a speed up. Earthquakes. Severe cold and snow. The Olympics. Swine Flu. Will we ever get through this process? And, if we do, how long will it take?
Again, with no answers, I am so glad Tide Guy and I did not announce this information when we decided to adopt from China. If we have all these questions, we would expect to be bombarded with the same questions from everyone who we told. That was a great decision we made!
On with the delay....
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Swine Flu & House Updates
The swine flu "pandemic" has fizzled and barely makes the news now. There are still cases popping up here and there across the country, but it doesn't make the headline or top story. Now, the swine flu has caused the CCAA to delay any progress. What progress they make is sporadic, shows no common thread, and follows no known plan. Some families are getting travel appointments, some are not. Some are getting referrals, some are not. Some are getting information, some are not. Some are traveling, while others have to wait. Different agencies are getting different information. Nothing makes any sense. So much for the potential speed up. One rumor is the CCAA will suspend matching until September. That is 4 months away.
Our house is getting lots of trim. We are getting trim around the windows and stairs, massive chair rails, and huge baseboards. The builder also set the whirl tub. Garage doors went in two days ago. Our columns have arrived and should be installed next week if the rain will stop. Our cabinets were also delivered on Thursday. The cabinet guy called Friday and told me they had returned the cabinets to his shop. The stain wasn't even and he wanted to fix them. I took the opportunity today to shop vac the areas where the cabinets will be installed. I want to get out as much sheet rock dust and sawdust to keep dust down in the house when we move in.
Gas prices have jumped up to $2.11 a gallon.
Our house is getting lots of trim. We are getting trim around the windows and stairs, massive chair rails, and huge baseboards. The builder also set the whirl tub. Garage doors went in two days ago. Our columns have arrived and should be installed next week if the rain will stop. Our cabinets were also delivered on Thursday. The cabinet guy called Friday and told me they had returned the cabinets to his shop. The stain wasn't even and he wanted to fix them. I took the opportunity today to shop vac the areas where the cabinets will be installed. I want to get out as much sheet rock dust and sawdust to keep dust down in the house when we move in.
Gas prices have jumped up to $2.11 a gallon.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Rain, Rain, Rain
It has rained over 7 days straight. Everyone's yard is saturated and the water has no where to go. At our new house, we are keeping an eye on the basement and our new sump pump. We have a company coming to help with the problem in about 2 weeks. And, we are supposed to get rain for another two days or so.
The builder is at our house full time and is getting a lot of the trim work done. We should get the columns for the front porch in about a week. I really need to finalize the paint colors. I went to Atlanta Market this week with a friend and ordered our chandelier for the breakfast nook and four pendants for the kitchen bar.
The swine flu "pandemic" scare is basically gone. There seems to still be a few cases, but schools opened earlier than originally planned. There is still the possibility the swine flu could delay travel to China. There is some confusion as some families are getting travel plans and some are not.
And, our 18 month LID anniversary just passed on May 6, 2009, without any fanfare. Yesterday, we updated our fingerprints. Now, our update is completely done. We are done for 18 months. We learned our lesson and will start earlier for our next update.
The builder is at our house full time and is getting a lot of the trim work done. We should get the columns for the front porch in about a week. I really need to finalize the paint colors. I went to Atlanta Market this week with a friend and ordered our chandelier for the breakfast nook and four pendants for the kitchen bar.
The swine flu "pandemic" scare is basically gone. There seems to still be a few cases, but schools opened earlier than originally planned. There is still the possibility the swine flu could delay travel to China. There is some confusion as some families are getting travel plans and some are not.
And, our 18 month LID anniversary just passed on May 6, 2009, without any fanfare. Yesterday, we updated our fingerprints. Now, our update is completely done. We are done for 18 months. We learned our lesson and will start earlier for our next update.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Swine Flu
Swine flu has been on the news for almost a week. Seems a young boy in Mexico caught the swine flu and it has spread into the states. Three students at a local elementary school here have the symptoms, but there is no confirmation they have the swine flu. All three are in the same class and my friend is their kindergarten teacher.
*Gas is up a bit to $1.93.
*Chief Justice David Souter announced last night he is going to retire from the Supreme Court.
All of our siding is done on our house. The four columns for the front porch were ordered yesterday. Tide Guy just returned from the house and said our basement leaked during our big downpour today. We are going to have to rethink how we are going to keep water out.
Tide Gal
*Gas is up a bit to $1.93.
*Chief Justice David Souter announced last night he is going to retire from the Supreme Court.
All of our siding is done on our house. The four columns for the front porch were ordered yesterday. Tide Guy just returned from the house and said our basement leaked during our big downpour today. We are going to have to rethink how we are going to keep water out.
Tide Gal
Monday, April 27, 2009
Lots to Tell
After much debate, this weekend Tide Guy and I painted the flashing that has been the cause of much frustration on our new house. We couldn't decide if we wanted to paint it, pay someone to paint it, put vinyl over it, or rip it off and put a thinner strip. The paint looks good. I really think there has to be a better way to keep water from running down between weird roof lines, but roofers and builders seem convinced this is the only way. It is not the most attractive, so some smart person needs to design a better way
We also now have slate on our front porch. It is actually stamped concrete, but it looks amazing. I'm ordering columns for the front porch today and want to look at hardwood and maybe tile for the wet areas.
In world news, there is an outbreak of the swine flu. It started in Mexico and has now spread across the border.
Gas prices have stayed steady, but it seems the price of milk has gone down a little.
Yesterday, I planted our little garden of six tomatoes plants and four different types of pepper plants. I can't wait to enjoy these in the summer. My mom has some tiny tomato plants my brother gave us. They are too small now for planting. I love these little yellow bell shaped tomatoes. They are so good dipped in balsamic vinegar.
My running group has now dropped to two people. We are doing okay, but only have about 4 weeks until our run. I wanted to run the entire 5K, but unless the training increases drastically, it isn't going to happen.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
We also now have slate on our front porch. It is actually stamped concrete, but it looks amazing. I'm ordering columns for the front porch today and want to look at hardwood and maybe tile for the wet areas.
In world news, there is an outbreak of the swine flu. It started in Mexico and has now spread across the border.
Gas prices have stayed steady, but it seems the price of milk has gone down a little.
Yesterday, I planted our little garden of six tomatoes plants and four different types of pepper plants. I can't wait to enjoy these in the summer. My mom has some tiny tomato plants my brother gave us. They are too small now for planting. I love these little yellow bell shaped tomatoes. They are so good dipped in balsamic vinegar.
My running group has now dropped to two people. We are doing okay, but only have about 4 weeks until our run. I wanted to run the entire 5K, but unless the training increases drastically, it isn't going to happen.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Shuttered!!
We got shutters this week. They look great. The black shutters look striking against the deep red brick and help the front of the house look more complete. Tomorrow we are meeting the cabinet guy to go over our original picks and finalize what he will make.
There are rumors on the internet that the CCAA may begin to match more children each month. The word on the internet is that with the increase in orphanage donations and other factors, orphanage directors are being encouraged to have more children "paper ready" quicker. Once a child is found, the orphanage must run an ad in the paper called a "finding ad". This ad would be used for a family to find their lost child. It is a crime to abandon a child in China. Of course, the children are really left in a safe place to be found and taken to an orphanage. Since it is a crime to have more than one child (there are a few exceptions to this rule) and a crime to abandon a child, the parents never claim their child. The time frame from the time a child is found until they are eligible to be "paper ready" is about 6 months. Thus, the prediction is the speed up should begin in 5-6 months.
So, we shall see if these rumors end up being in true.
Tide Guy has planned a trip for us and surprised me with it. We are going to St. Thomas in a few months. With his travel due to work, we can't go right now. And, boy, do we need a vacation. Hopefully, we will be completely moved into the new house before we travel.
Tide Gal
There are rumors on the internet that the CCAA may begin to match more children each month. The word on the internet is that with the increase in orphanage donations and other factors, orphanage directors are being encouraged to have more children "paper ready" quicker. Once a child is found, the orphanage must run an ad in the paper called a "finding ad". This ad would be used for a family to find their lost child. It is a crime to abandon a child in China. Of course, the children are really left in a safe place to be found and taken to an orphanage. Since it is a crime to have more than one child (there are a few exceptions to this rule) and a crime to abandon a child, the parents never claim their child. The time frame from the time a child is found until they are eligible to be "paper ready" is about 6 months. Thus, the prediction is the speed up should begin in 5-6 months.
So, we shall see if these rumors end up being in true.
Tide Guy has planned a trip for us and surprised me with it. We are going to St. Thomas in a few months. With his travel due to work, we can't go right now. And, boy, do we need a vacation. Hopefully, we will be completely moved into the new house before we travel.
Tide Gal
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Yahoo!!
We got it!! Today we got the invitations to have our fingerprints updated!! We are assuming the CIS accepted our paperwork a few days late.
Two problems though. First, my name isn't spelled correctly on my invitation. Not sure what to do about that yet. Second, our appointment time is on a day in May that is the middle of a business trip for Tide Guy. We are going to have to request another date. Unfortunately, Tide Guy will be gone most of May. We are going to wait a while to mail in our request to hopefully push our appointment date further into May or hopefully into June.
I talked to the cabinet man today and we are meeting him next week to finalize our cabinetry. We got more vinyl installed today, but they still need a few more days to complete the vinyl trim and gutters on the back of the house. The builder hasn't done much trim this week as we haven't had much rain this week so he has worked outside at a house he has just started. The garage sheetrock is now complete and the guys have removed their supplies.
Gas is about $1.93 and the economy still stinks.
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Two problems though. First, my name isn't spelled correctly on my invitation. Not sure what to do about that yet. Second, our appointment time is on a day in May that is the middle of a business trip for Tide Guy. We are going to have to request another date. Unfortunately, Tide Guy will be gone most of May. We are going to wait a while to mail in our request to hopefully push our appointment date further into May or hopefully into June.
I talked to the cabinet man today and we are meeting him next week to finalize our cabinetry. We got more vinyl installed today, but they still need a few more days to complete the vinyl trim and gutters on the back of the house. The builder hasn't done much trim this week as we haven't had much rain this week so he has worked outside at a house he has just started. The garage sheetrock is now complete and the guys have removed their supplies.
Gas is about $1.93 and the economy still stinks.
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Monday, April 13, 2009
Still in Limbo
We still have not received word if CIS in Atlanta has received our paperwork on Saturday or today. CIS has not responded to our agency's e-mail as to whether or not they will accept our homestudy a day or two late.
Ugh.
Ugh.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Updating on the Update
We had our homestudy overnighted to our state capital's city for review and approval on April 2, 2009 with hopes to have it to CIS in Atlanta by our cutoff date of April 10. 2009. Unfortunately, "the worker" was out sick and just today reviewed and approved our homestudy. Since tomorrow is our cutoff date and the state won't overnight it, we won't make our date. The reason they won't ask the state to overnight the packet is they already requested our paperwork be expedited due to our close due date. I guess they don't want to push their luck or ruin chances of requests in the future.
Our social worker suggested we have our agency call or e-mail CIS to notify them our paperwork is in the mail. Hopefully, we will still qualify for our "free" update and fingerprinting. Our agency did e-mail a request for them to accept our homestudy. They are also searching for a phone number, too.
We are still waiting to hear back. We asked the company that did our homestudy to check with the state this week. We asked several times, but they didn't want to bother the person. So, if CIS doesn't accept this, we will have wasted money ($$), time, and sanity on this "free" extension.
Fingers are still crossed that CIS will accept our homestudy one day late. They already have the rest of our paperwork (letters, copies of birth certificates, marriage license, etc) that we had to send them.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Our social worker suggested we have our agency call or e-mail CIS to notify them our paperwork is in the mail. Hopefully, we will still qualify for our "free" update and fingerprinting. Our agency did e-mail a request for them to accept our homestudy. They are also searching for a phone number, too.
We are still waiting to hear back. We asked the company that did our homestudy to check with the state this week. We asked several times, but they didn't want to bother the person. So, if CIS doesn't accept this, we will have wasted money ($$), time, and sanity on this "free" extension.
Fingers are still crossed that CIS will accept our homestudy one day late. They already have the rest of our paperwork (letters, copies of birth certificates, marriage license, etc) that we had to send them.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Garage
Just a quick update:
We got sheet rock in the garage today. They were able to start taping, but should complete that and some sanding tomorrow. Yeah! More done. And, we got more vinyl in the back of the house, too.
We got sheet rock in the garage today. They were able to start taping, but should complete that and some sanding tomorrow. Yeah! More done. And, we got more vinyl in the back of the house, too.
Monday, April 6, 2009
17 Months
Today is our 17th month LIDiversary. Another month down on the real calendar and two days down on the "Chinese adoption calendar". Two. We are now at March 8, 2007. Still a VERY long way to go for us to get to November 6, 2008.
On the "new" home front, we got some gutters and vinyl two days ago. Hopefully, this will help with water seeping into the basement. It seemed to help yesterday when we got quite a bit of rain. And also today when we got rain, sleet, and snow. Just a tiny bit of snow, but still, snow.
Last week we got interior doors and pocket doors. All of the trim on the sides and some of the trim on top of the doors are up. We also have some baseboards now. It is really looking great!
We are supposed to have the garage sheet rocked this week. This way we can get it painted, get the garage doors in, and the door from the garage into the house installed. We will then be able to lock some things in the garage for safe storage.
In national news, gas prices dropped, but jumped back up to $1.91 a gallon. Up about 12 cents in a week. The economy is still in the dumps with the unemployment rate. Basically, everything is the same in that area.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
On the "new" home front, we got some gutters and vinyl two days ago. Hopefully, this will help with water seeping into the basement. It seemed to help yesterday when we got quite a bit of rain. And also today when we got rain, sleet, and snow. Just a tiny bit of snow, but still, snow.
Last week we got interior doors and pocket doors. All of the trim on the sides and some of the trim on top of the doors are up. We also have some baseboards now. It is really looking great!
We are supposed to have the garage sheet rocked this week. This way we can get it painted, get the garage doors in, and the door from the garage into the house installed. We will then be able to lock some things in the garage for safe storage.
In national news, gas prices dropped, but jumped back up to $1.91 a gallon. Up about 12 cents in a week. The economy is still in the dumps with the unemployment rate. Basically, everything is the same in that area.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Time is Ticking...
We found out a few days ago that our home study is complete. EXCEPT! They were waiting to receive our criminal clearances from Alabama and Mississippi. We also found out that our paperwork had to first be mailed to Montgomery and from there mailed to Atlanta. A few steps that we didn't know were required. Our agency told us Alabama usually had a two week turn around for the criminal clearance, but was currently running two to three weeks behind. That would cause us to miss our April 10th deadline. Our agency has no contacts in Mississippi and wanted us to wait a few days before making calls. Also, it seems these places completing this paperwork frowns on citizens calling to check on the status.
Luckily, Alabama sent our paperwork and it was received at our agency a day or two ago. Our agency called Mississippi today for us. Our agency said whoever answered would check and call our agency back before 5pm today and seemed sympathetic after being told our situation. Before 3, our agency reported our paperwork from Mississippi was mailed yesterday. Our agency should receive it tomorrow and will overnight it to Montgomery. We may just squeak in under the April 10th radar. Barely.
I also found out if we miss our deadline we and our agency can send a letter to Atlanta stating why we missed our deadline and it is possible they will accept it then. It may depend on who receives the letter and their mood. Basically, if we miss the deadline, all of our work will have been for naught and we wasted the money we paid the agency. Plus, when we renew later, we will have to give information on all of our addresses each of us has ever had. Believe me, we really need to make this April 10th deadline. That requirement with a military person is does not make me happy.
Fingers Crossed!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Luckily, Alabama sent our paperwork and it was received at our agency a day or two ago. Our agency called Mississippi today for us. Our agency said whoever answered would check and call our agency back before 5pm today and seemed sympathetic after being told our situation. Before 3, our agency reported our paperwork from Mississippi was mailed yesterday. Our agency should receive it tomorrow and will overnight it to Montgomery. We may just squeak in under the April 10th radar. Barely.
I also found out if we miss our deadline we and our agency can send a letter to Atlanta stating why we missed our deadline and it is possible they will accept it then. It may depend on who receives the letter and their mood. Basically, if we miss the deadline, all of our work will have been for naught and we wasted the money we paid the agency. Plus, when we renew later, we will have to give information on all of our addresses each of us has ever had. Believe me, we really need to make this April 10th deadline. That requirement with a military person is does not make me happy.
Fingers Crossed!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Waiting Again
We are still waiting for our notarized home study and we haven't heard from our social worker regarding the completion date. It shouldn't take very long since it is basically an update. I'm going to have to e-mail her because we have to have everything mailed into Atlanta BEFORE April 10, 2009. That is now about 12 days away.
We are heading to our house to sweep up more sheet rock dust, saw dust, and water. We had a major heavy rain late Wednesday night and into Thursday morning. Water is all in the basement. I think it covered the whole floor at one point. Today we have to sweep it out. Our vinyl guy is supposed to work next week to get the gutters up. According to Tide Guy, that should help with drainage and keep our basement more dry. When we get our deck in the back that should help. Leveling out the front yard and adding grass will help more with the front yard.
In national news, gas prices are on the rise again. The price per gallon has gone up about 20 cents in a week. It is now about $1.99. Just in time for summer. Unemployment is still a staggering high, but the stock market seems to be gaining it's footing a little bit.
We are very ready for spring and warm weather!
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
We are heading to our house to sweep up more sheet rock dust, saw dust, and water. We had a major heavy rain late Wednesday night and into Thursday morning. Water is all in the basement. I think it covered the whole floor at one point. Today we have to sweep it out. Our vinyl guy is supposed to work next week to get the gutters up. According to Tide Guy, that should help with drainage and keep our basement more dry. When we get our deck in the back that should help. Leveling out the front yard and adding grass will help more with the front yard.
In national news, gas prices are on the rise again. The price per gallon has gone up about 20 cents in a week. It is now about $1.99. Just in time for summer. Unemployment is still a staggering high, but the stock market seems to be gaining it's footing a little bit.
We are very ready for spring and warm weather!
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Home Study is Complete
Our 2nd home study is complete. Our last forms were mailed in Monday, March 22, 2009. Now, we wait for the social worker to complete her work and send us a notarized copy. Once we receive that, we mail that along with a few other forms to Atlanta and we are done. We only have to wait for the fingerprinting appointment. Nice and easy.
Our builders have been able to work a little more on our crown molding and trim. It looks great. Still no solution on the flashing on the roof. I think we were just overwhelmed with all the house decisions and home study we just put that on the back burner.
Our builders have been able to work a little more on our crown molding and trim. It looks great. Still no solution on the flashing on the roof. I think we were just overwhelmed with all the house decisions and home study we just put that on the back burner.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Another Form Mailed
I picked up our medical statements from the doctor yesterday and delivered the forms to the post office myself. Another check mark. This weekend, we will complete the financial statement and our taxes. Those be in the mail Monday morning.
We are also working at the house this weekend. Well, Tide Guy is while I recover from a really bad cold. I need to shop vac more sheet rock dust, but probably won't since I can't really breathe right now. Adding the dust to my respiratory system could not be too smart.
That is it for today.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
We are also working at the house this weekend. Well, Tide Guy is while I recover from a really bad cold. I need to shop vac more sheet rock dust, but probably won't since I can't really breathe right now. Adding the dust to my respiratory system could not be too smart.
That is it for today.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Thursday, March 19, 2009
It's Over!
We are done with the visit. She swept in and out within 35 minutes. We spent 3 full nights scrubbing, vacuuming, straightening, moving, dusting, wiping, etc and she never left the one room she walked in first. Man. So much wasted cleaning. Asked a few questions, got the check, and whoosh, she was gone.
To celebrate, I went shopping and Tide Guy went to the new house to pick up nails and bricks. We are such party animals.
Now, we only need to finshing a few forms and get the completed form from the doctor. No big deal. Once completed, we will get an appointment for fingerprinting and we'll be done.
Glad today is over!
Tide Gal
To celebrate, I went shopping and Tide Guy went to the new house to pick up nails and bricks. We are such party animals.
Now, we only need to finshing a few forms and get the completed form from the doctor. No big deal. Once completed, we will get an appointment for fingerprinting and we'll be done.
Glad today is over!
Tide Gal
Home Study today!
Our homestudy review is in 1 hour and 45 minutes!! Ugh.
Good news: I made 5 copies each of our driver's license, marriage license, passports, and birth certificates. I will have these on hand when I need them again in 18 months for our next review! I'll be ready and more organized then!!
Bad news: Last night we thought we had lost our 797. Then, later thought we found it. Then!! Just now I realized it was NOT our 797. It was the letter we received for our fingerprinting appointment in 2007!! Oh, boy. This is not good. Realizing we can't find this extremely important NECESSARY form just before our homestudy is making my blood pressure go up....fast!
Wish us luck!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Good news: I made 5 copies each of our driver's license, marriage license, passports, and birth certificates. I will have these on hand when I need them again in 18 months for our next review! I'll be ready and more organized then!!
Bad news: Last night we thought we had lost our 797. Then, later thought we found it. Then!! Just now I realized it was NOT our 797. It was the letter we received for our fingerprinting appointment in 2007!! Oh, boy. This is not good. Realizing we can't find this extremely important NECESSARY form just before our homestudy is making my blood pressure go up....fast!
Wish us luck!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Our Homestudy
We are knee deep in our homestudy update. Our reference letters have all been mailed to our family and friends and some have already returned them to our agency. We have submitted over half of our paperwork and Tide Guy did his medical this morning. I will have my medical updated tomorrow. We are slowly getting it all done. Yesterday, Tide Guy called our agency to set up our appointment and we are scheduled for Thursday at 2:00. Yikes. That gave us three nights to clean. And, boy, do we need to clean a lot. Last night we got the majority of the hard stuff done.
I just realized I missed the 16th month anniversary of our waiting on March 6, 2009. Yeah. Whoopee....
Our builder did some trim work around some windows and walls yesterday. It is fancy and looks great! Too bad the rain has stopped. When it is pretty, he goes to another house and works outside. When it is raining, we get him inside. We need rain! Lots of slow, day consuming rain!
Have a good St. Patrick's Day...Happy Green!
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
I just realized I missed the 16th month anniversary of our waiting on March 6, 2009. Yeah. Whoopee....
Our builder did some trim work around some windows and walls yesterday. It is fancy and looks great! Too bad the rain has stopped. When it is pretty, he goes to another house and works outside. When it is raining, we get him inside. We need rain! Lots of slow, day consuming rain!
Have a good St. Patrick's Day...Happy Green!
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Friday, March 13, 2009
Trimmings!
Our builder put up some trim and crown in the upstairs bedroom for us to look at yesterday. We decided we love it and he is to start all the windows and crown in the upstairs bedrooms. We are going to use this on all of the windows upstairs and probably some downstairs. I think today he is going to put up some around a door for us to check.
Moving on........................finally.
Moving on........................finally.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Bigger Problems Than Stucco Color
Well, the stucco has been redone and the roofers have returned and finished their job. Result? Well, I still don't know how the stucco looks. When the roofers finished the shingles on top of the front porch, which is just below the bricked wall with the foyer window, they finished the job by putting up the flashing to prevent leaks. The flashing is just that...flashing. It is shiny, shiny metal that runs across the front of the house like a streak. When I went to see the completed product all I saw was something shiny. Hence the reason I haven't decided how the stucco looks. I can't see the stucco for the flashing.
Imagine our surprise when we realized it was also done around the "roof" of the mudroom door and all along the back covering, too. Ugh. Great.
We are not happy with the results. At all. Basically, it looks redneck and unfinished. Tide Guy has contact the builder and roofer to try to get another solution. We do have a few options like pulling it up and installing a thinner flashing. Or cover the existing flashing with paint, vinyl, or possibly stucco. So, we'll see.
After all of this is fixed we will then be able to see the stucco and see what we think of the color. We decided on Sunday to keep it the way it is until we could see it with the trim and shingles. I really think the stucco will be okay in the long run, but right now the flashing issue is much more pressing.
In national news, the stock market is still tanking, unemployment is still rising, and the economy looks bleak. On the bright side, gas at the Race Way here is down to $1.78.
We are ready for Spring!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Imagine our surprise when we realized it was also done around the "roof" of the mudroom door and all along the back covering, too. Ugh. Great.
We are not happy with the results. At all. Basically, it looks redneck and unfinished. Tide Guy has contact the builder and roofer to try to get another solution. We do have a few options like pulling it up and installing a thinner flashing. Or cover the existing flashing with paint, vinyl, or possibly stucco. So, we'll see.
After all of this is fixed we will then be able to see the stucco and see what we think of the color. We decided on Sunday to keep it the way it is until we could see it with the trim and shingles. I really think the stucco will be okay in the long run, but right now the flashing issue is much more pressing.
In national news, the stock market is still tanking, unemployment is still rising, and the economy looks bleak. On the bright side, gas at the Race Way here is down to $1.78.
We are ready for Spring!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Stucco??
Okay. This is where we stand. We had stucco put on the two dormers on the front of the house and and the small cover above the side door. The first attempt did not turn out great. Unfortunately, I picked the color with a friend and the stucco guy. It looked horrible. It started out pink. Yep, pink. Then, dried a little better. Still not great, but better. So, we tried again. This time both Tide Guy and I picked the color. The second attempt was better and more brown. We debated the color for hours and even called another friend to give an opinion. The stucco was done on Tuesday and we decided today (Sunday) that it will work. I really think it will be okay once the rest of the black shingles are on top of the porch and the white vinyl is up as the trim. Hopefully, it won' t look yellow or be too light.
The masons finished their work yesterday. They were able to get the steps completed in the garage and on the side door. When we are ready, they will return to do the front steps and build the wall to disguise the air conditioning unit.
We had great weather this weekend and took three loads on the trailer to my friends to dispose. The place looks better with all the paper, plastic, sticks, boxes, etc. gone. Plus, we've been able to pick up most of the brick pieces in the yard. We still have lots of work to do, but I know it is all going to be worth it.
The concrete guys poured the concrete Thursday and it looks great! Moving on!
Ready for spring!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
The masons finished their work yesterday. They were able to get the steps completed in the garage and on the side door. When we are ready, they will return to do the front steps and build the wall to disguise the air conditioning unit.
We had great weather this weekend and took three loads on the trailer to my friends to dispose. The place looks better with all the paper, plastic, sticks, boxes, etc. gone. Plus, we've been able to pick up most of the brick pieces in the yard. We still have lots of work to do, but I know it is all going to be worth it.
The concrete guys poured the concrete Thursday and it looks great! Moving on!
Ready for spring!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
It's Official
It's official. China referred through March 6, 2006. We only have 1 year and 8 months of referrals to go. Maybe in 5 years?? At the rate of 4 days a month, who knows?
We are supposed to pick our new stucco color tonight. I hope we don't pick the wrong color again! It was so cold yesterday, the mason guys did not work. I hope it warmed up enough for them early enough today so they could finish the last part of the house. We are also supposed to have concrete poured in the garage, but it needs to warm up for that, too.
Lots to look forward to!
We are supposed to pick our new stucco color tonight. I hope we don't pick the wrong color again! It was so cold yesterday, the mason guys did not work. I hope it warmed up enough for them early enough today so they could finish the last part of the house. We are also supposed to have concrete poured in the garage, but it needs to warm up for that, too.
Lots to look forward to!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
SNOW!
We heard rumors we would have snow this morning when we woke. We never get snow and we certainly never get snow when it is predicted. Well, it was predicted we would have 2.5-3 inches when we woke. And we did have 3 inches of snow and it was still coming down heavy. We were so shocked. The snow was beautiful, so we took pictures of the house we live in and ran to our new house. Our new house would have looked great, but we still have scaffolds, pallets of brick, buckets, machinery, etc. everywhere. Unfortunately, the temperature went up and the sun came out, so the snow started disappearing quickly about 10 am. It was funny to see our buttercups blooming beneath the snow.
Tide Guy was gone last week, so a friend and I met the stucco guy to pick the stucco color. We picked a grayish color to match the key ways above the windows. Unfortunately, it was too pink. It was really pink before it cured. So, we are trying again. This time the stucco guy had us narrow it down again and he will get us new samples. We are going to consider something in the brown family this time.
Gas prices are about the same, but the economy is still terrible. Our favorite Mexican restaurant, due to the increase of produce, now charges $1.50 for the third serving of chips and salsa.
In the adoption world, it looks like China referred through March 6, 2006. A whole 4 days. Two of which are weekend days. It seems that March 7, 2006, is a large day so it is possible China will only refer one day next month. Yuk.
We have started filling out paperwork to submit to our adoption agency. We are basically done except for one or two questions and getting a money order. Once that is sent in we can get our home study appointment in place. We spent a bit of today rearranging a storage room in this house. We have stacks of lighting fixtures, plumbing equipment, and other items stored here for the new house. This is all in addition to the household goods stored in another room. It looks more "homey", but there is still some work to do to make it look better.
Happy March
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Tide Guy was gone last week, so a friend and I met the stucco guy to pick the stucco color. We picked a grayish color to match the key ways above the windows. Unfortunately, it was too pink. It was really pink before it cured. So, we are trying again. This time the stucco guy had us narrow it down again and he will get us new samples. We are going to consider something in the brown family this time.
Gas prices are about the same, but the economy is still terrible. Our favorite Mexican restaurant, due to the increase of produce, now charges $1.50 for the third serving of chips and salsa.
In the adoption world, it looks like China referred through March 6, 2006. A whole 4 days. Two of which are weekend days. It seems that March 7, 2006, is a large day so it is possible China will only refer one day next month. Yuk.
We have started filling out paperwork to submit to our adoption agency. We are basically done except for one or two questions and getting a money order. Once that is sent in we can get our home study appointment in place. We spent a bit of today rearranging a storage room in this house. We have stacks of lighting fixtures, plumbing equipment, and other items stored here for the new house. This is all in addition to the household goods stored in another room. It looks more "homey", but there is still some work to do to make it look better.
Happy March
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Updating our Paperwork
A few days ago we got our packet with the information regarding our update. We need to start on this NOW! It seems a bit daunting, so I don't want to put it off and panic next month. One step at a time. The biggest concern is the medical. Only because neither of us have a doctor and the clinic I used last time no longer has a doctor. Tide Guy may have to go to the base here or we'll need to get a general practitioner. Other things such background checks should be easier.
We are waiting to see how referrals will go this month. Right now, it doesn't look very positive. I think we may have a few more days of waiting.
In other news, gas prices have stayed stable at roughly $1.78 a gallon. The economy is still in the dumps. Unemployment is extremely high. The stock market is suffering.
The exterior of our house looks amazing. The masons are on the last side of the house and have already bricked the front porch. They still need to do the side landing and the end of the drive way. Yesterday, Tide Guy and I picked up pieces of brick and threw them into the porch for fill before the concrete is poured in. Great fun. The other day I ordered a block with the house number from a monument place. It was half the price than if I had ordered it from a brick store and took 1 day to complete rather than 2 or more weeks. It was placed within the bricks a few days ago and we love the way it looks.
The stucco guys have started and their work is spectacular. I love it. They created a design for us and we love it. They put columns on the exterior of the foyer window area. Around the window, they added a raised key way and trim. It frames that area nicely and it looks amazing. They have started the area around the window above the garage. I can't wait to see their work completed. We still have to pick the color of the stucco.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
We are waiting to see how referrals will go this month. Right now, it doesn't look very positive. I think we may have a few more days of waiting.
In other news, gas prices have stayed stable at roughly $1.78 a gallon. The economy is still in the dumps. Unemployment is extremely high. The stock market is suffering.
The exterior of our house looks amazing. The masons are on the last side of the house and have already bricked the front porch. They still need to do the side landing and the end of the drive way. Yesterday, Tide Guy and I picked up pieces of brick and threw them into the porch for fill before the concrete is poured in. Great fun. The other day I ordered a block with the house number from a monument place. It was half the price than if I had ordered it from a brick store and took 1 day to complete rather than 2 or more weeks. It was placed within the bricks a few days ago and we love the way it looks.
The stucco guys have started and their work is spectacular. I love it. They created a design for us and we love it. They put columns on the exterior of the foyer window area. Around the window, they added a raised key way and trim. It frames that area nicely and it looks amazing. They have started the area around the window above the garage. I can't wait to see their work completed. We still have to pick the color of the stucco.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Saturday, February 14, 2009
It's Time
Our paperwork will expire on April 10, 2009, so we have to update what was presented to our agency. We will need to redo our fingerprints, get multiple copies of birth certificates and marriage certificates, update our financial statement, get medical statements again, get more reference statements, and several other forms need to be completed.
The worst part is the dreaded home study will also have to be redone. We will not be able to do our home study in our new home, but will have to do it in the house we live in now. And it is 117 years old. We have to be creative living here since there is limited lighting and even less outlets. We have numerous extension cords and wiring running everywhere! We have also coverted one bedroom into a storage room. When we moved back to the States after being stationed overseas, we left many boxes packed. When we moved here, we left even more boxes packed since we consider living here just "camping out". We are comfortable living here, but only utilize part of the house. The home study looks at the whole house to make sure it is safe for a baby, not just what we use. It will be okay. I'm sure we will have to redo all of this paperwork and home study again so we we will update that when we move. The home study is also an interview with the two of us to make sure we are not crazy, decide if we have good morals, and should be allowed to adopt a child.
Today is Valentine's Day. Tide Guy and I will celebrate by moving gravel with a tractor, shopping for a house number block to go into the brick, meeting with the stucco guy (for accent places on the house) and possibly sweeping sheet rock dust. Romantic, huh? Tide Guy did give me a dozen red roses and some dark chocolate. Yum. Dark chocolate is my favorite. I'm sure we can take a break and go to our favorite Mexican restaurant. Tide Guy has been gone all week and just returned yesterday, so he will not want go far or wait too long to eat.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
The worst part is the dreaded home study will also have to be redone. We will not be able to do our home study in our new home, but will have to do it in the house we live in now. And it is 117 years old. We have to be creative living here since there is limited lighting and even less outlets. We have numerous extension cords and wiring running everywhere! We have also coverted one bedroom into a storage room. When we moved back to the States after being stationed overseas, we left many boxes packed. When we moved here, we left even more boxes packed since we consider living here just "camping out". We are comfortable living here, but only utilize part of the house. The home study looks at the whole house to make sure it is safe for a baby, not just what we use. It will be okay. I'm sure we will have to redo all of this paperwork and home study again so we we will update that when we move. The home study is also an interview with the two of us to make sure we are not crazy, decide if we have good morals, and should be allowed to adopt a child.
Today is Valentine's Day. Tide Guy and I will celebrate by moving gravel with a tractor, shopping for a house number block to go into the brick, meeting with the stucco guy (for accent places on the house) and possibly sweeping sheet rock dust. Romantic, huh? Tide Guy did give me a dozen red roses and some dark chocolate. Yum. Dark chocolate is my favorite. I'm sure we can take a break and go to our favorite Mexican restaurant. Tide Guy has been gone all week and just returned yesterday, so he will not want go far or wait too long to eat.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Friday, February 6, 2009
15 months.....
We are 15 months into our wait. Rumors have started that there is a possibility of a speed up. Right now we need to start updating our information, doing a new home study, doing fingerprints, and gathering paperwork. Our paperwork expires in April, so we have about 6 weeks to get things in order.
Gas is up to $1.83 at our local Race Way.
Congress may put a cap on the bonuses "big business" can give to employees. A cap of $500,000. Seriously? We (the tax payers) are giving these companies millions of dollars of bail out money to keep their businesses open and their are still giving bonuses? Seriously?
Our house looks so good. The brick is amazing. I talked to someone about the stucco last night. We only have a small area so that shouldn't be a problem to get set up. I really need to start concentrating on paint colors and coordinating rugs, furniture, and other items we already have.
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Gas is up to $1.83 at our local Race Way.
Congress may put a cap on the bonuses "big business" can give to employees. A cap of $500,000. Seriously? We (the tax payers) are giving these companies millions of dollars of bail out money to keep their businesses open and their are still giving bonuses? Seriously?
Our house looks so good. The brick is amazing. I talked to someone about the stucco last night. We only have a small area so that shouldn't be a problem to get set up. I really need to start concentrating on paint colors and coordinating rugs, furniture, and other items we already have.
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Super Bowl!
Today is the Super Bowl between Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals. I have no real interest in the game other than the commercials. So far, the commercials are not great. Some are a tiny bit funny, but nothing memorable.
Our brickers are doing such a fine job and are close to completing the front of the house. Tide Guy has spent two days on my brother's tractor spreading gravel into the garage. We need to get with the builder to finalize the interior trim. Yesterday I went to a glass place to check on having custom panes made to into the window above the master tub and in the water closet. When they gave me a very rough estimate per square foot, I luckily didn't calculate the price correctly or I would have been completely shocked in front of them. I was only about $2000 short on the window over the tub. We will have to find another solution for the master bath windows.
Gas is still steady at $1.69 a gallon.
That's about all for this Super Bowl Sunday.....
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Our brickers are doing such a fine job and are close to completing the front of the house. Tide Guy has spent two days on my brother's tractor spreading gravel into the garage. We need to get with the builder to finalize the interior trim. Yesterday I went to a glass place to check on having custom panes made to into the window above the master tub and in the water closet. When they gave me a very rough estimate per square foot, I luckily didn't calculate the price correctly or I would have been completely shocked in front of them. I was only about $2000 short on the window over the tub. We will have to find another solution for the master bath windows.
Gas is still steady at $1.69 a gallon.
That's about all for this Super Bowl Sunday.....
Tide Gal and Tide Guy
Saturday, January 24, 2009
2 Days??
Rumors started about a week ago that China would refer from March 1-March 20-something , 2006, this month. Twenty days sounded great to me since our log in date is November 6, 2007. We are still over 1 1/2 years away in line. Since China has been referring 3-7 days a month, 20 days would be a huge step. Well, it wasn't twenty days. Or even 10. It was 2. TWO! Yep. That's it for this month. They are now referred through March 2, 1006. The office in China is now closed for a week or so for the Chinese New Year. Maybe February will be a much more positive month.
Our running group has dwindled down. We were off work on Monday. And, due to the cold temperatures, no one ran on Tuesday. On Wednesday, there was only two of us and it was so cold and windy it hurt to breathe. The creek beside part of the track was frozen. The next day, we only had three show up. Next week should be better since it won't be as cold.
Our brickers have been able to work a few days this week and are finally on the front side of the house. It looks wonderful. I can't wait for them to remove the scaffolding from the back so we can get a good look.
Gas has gone down about five cents a gallon and is now about $1.69.
The new president was sworn in Tuesday, 20 January, 2009. That day was the worst drop in the stock market in several years. Luckily, the market rebounded a bit the following day.
Our running group has dwindled down. We were off work on Monday. And, due to the cold temperatures, no one ran on Tuesday. On Wednesday, there was only two of us and it was so cold and windy it hurt to breathe. The creek beside part of the track was frozen. The next day, we only had three show up. Next week should be better since it won't be as cold.
Our brickers have been able to work a few days this week and are finally on the front side of the house. It looks wonderful. I can't wait for them to remove the scaffolding from the back so we can get a good look.
Gas has gone down about five cents a gallon and is now about $1.69.
The new president was sworn in Tuesday, 20 January, 2009. That day was the worst drop in the stock market in several years. Luckily, the market rebounded a bit the following day.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Furniture
Saturday, we went furniture shopping and actually scored some great items all in one store. We got four theatre chairs with two consoles, a beautiful executive desk, a desk chair, a University of Alabama lamp, two hounds tooth chairs for the bonus room, and a large Egg with the large table. We felt so satisfied with our purchases.
I have wanted a red leather sofa for the living room for almost five years. Saturday, Tide Guy reminded me it would have to match the Persian rug we bought while living over seas. I had forgotten about that and the rug has a lot of red in it. Yesterday, we unrolled the rug for the first time since we bought it. I realized it was a very deep red. The red leather I picked out for a sofa wasn't as deep as the red in the rug. Now I have to start all over. Either find a new red leather or find another color all together. Luckily, I did find a brown sofa both of us liked.
I'm off today and am going to a few more stores, so maybe I'll find more great, needed treasures.
Tide Gal
I have wanted a red leather sofa for the living room for almost five years. Saturday, Tide Guy reminded me it would have to match the Persian rug we bought while living over seas. I had forgotten about that and the rug has a lot of red in it. Yesterday, we unrolled the rug for the first time since we bought it. I realized it was a very deep red. The red leather I picked out for a sofa wasn't as deep as the red in the rug. Now I have to start all over. Either find a new red leather or find another color all together. Luckily, I did find a brown sofa both of us liked.
I'm off today and am going to a few more stores, so maybe I'll find more great, needed treasures.
Tide Gal
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Still Cold Here
Yep. It is still cold here. It is less than 20 degrees right now, but supposed to get into the 40s. Yeah, I'll believe it when I see it.
At the house, the sheet rock finishers should have finished yesterday. We'll find out a little later today. I might go furniture shopping today. Much more fun than cleaning up at the house in the cold (with no heat!). The brickers still haven't been able to work since it is below freezing. Hopefully next week they will be able to work every day.
Last night at the RaceTrac, gas was $1.74. Looks like we need to enjoy these prices now as they are disappearing quickly.
In other major news, I've joined a group to start running. I'm doing it to get in shape and stay in shape. The program is for 3 days a week, but we are planning to meet 4 times a week. The first week was walking briskly the first and last 5 minutes. In between, we run 1 minute & walk 1.5 minutes. The total time at the track is 25 minutes. Not bad. The second week, we run more and walk less. The running increases each week until we are running the 1.5 mile track. At the end of 9 weeks, we should be ready for a 5K. We are supposed to do a 5K on Memorial Day in May. I can do this. I am the oldest one and doing very well or better than some of the younger people. Yeah me. We did not "practice" on Thursday due to the cold. I think with the wind chill, it was about 10. Way to cold for all of us. Wednesday it was so cold that it was harder running than on our first day.
That is all for now. We have lots to do on this Saturday.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
At the house, the sheet rock finishers should have finished yesterday. We'll find out a little later today. I might go furniture shopping today. Much more fun than cleaning up at the house in the cold (with no heat!). The brickers still haven't been able to work since it is below freezing. Hopefully next week they will be able to work every day.
Last night at the RaceTrac, gas was $1.74. Looks like we need to enjoy these prices now as they are disappearing quickly.
In other major news, I've joined a group to start running. I'm doing it to get in shape and stay in shape. The program is for 3 days a week, but we are planning to meet 4 times a week. The first week was walking briskly the first and last 5 minutes. In between, we run 1 minute & walk 1.5 minutes. The total time at the track is 25 minutes. Not bad. The second week, we run more and walk less. The running increases each week until we are running the 1.5 mile track. At the end of 9 weeks, we should be ready for a 5K. We are supposed to do a 5K on Memorial Day in May. I can do this. I am the oldest one and doing very well or better than some of the younger people. Yeah me. We did not "practice" on Thursday due to the cold. I think with the wind chill, it was about 10. Way to cold for all of us. Wednesday it was so cold that it was harder running than on our first day.
That is all for now. We have lots to do on this Saturday.
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Thursday, January 15, 2009
BRRRR.....
It is freezing here. This morning when I got up it was 17 degrees! The high today is about 24 or 25. That should never happen here. Tonight, the low is 9! NINE!! The high tomorrow is again 24 or 25.
We have had a drought for 2 or 3 years and we made up lots of inches on that in the past month. We've had too much rain and the ground just couldn't absorb anymore moisture. Our brickers were not able to work and the sheet rock mud wouldn't dry well. Then, we had rain coming in where we have a unique roof line. It damaged the sheet rock and insulation. All that was removed and will have to be replaced. Now with the freezing weather, the brickers still can't work due to problems with the mortar.
We picked out our interior doors and trim on Saturday. Basically, we are letting our builder use his talents on our trim. I also found the vanity I want for the Asian-themed powder room.
Gas is on the rise. Last night at our local Race Trac it was $1.68.
Hopefully we will get some warmer weather soon!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
We have had a drought for 2 or 3 years and we made up lots of inches on that in the past month. We've had too much rain and the ground just couldn't absorb anymore moisture. Our brickers were not able to work and the sheet rock mud wouldn't dry well. Then, we had rain coming in where we have a unique roof line. It damaged the sheet rock and insulation. All that was removed and will have to be replaced. Now with the freezing weather, the brickers still can't work due to problems with the mortar.
We picked out our interior doors and trim on Saturday. Basically, we are letting our builder use his talents on our trim. I also found the vanity I want for the Asian-themed powder room.
Gas is on the rise. Last night at our local Race Trac it was $1.68.
Hopefully we will get some warmer weather soon!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Gas Prices
Well, the gas prices have gone up since I last bought gas on Jan 3, 2009. Last night gas was $1.57 at Wal-Mart. Ugh. Here we go. The country is being told not to get used to these great low gas prices. They won't stick around too much longer.
Tide Gal
Tide Gal
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year----Late
Well, I'm starting this year off a little late. Things are a bit crazy and busy. Lots of ball games, parties, gatherings, shopping, wrapping, and fun have kept me busy.
We left on December 30, 2008, and drove to Meridian, MS for the night. We lived there on base for 2 1/2 years. We didn't plan to go to the base and check it out, but we decided to go the next morning. We saw Tide Guy's old office building, our old house, the new Country Store, and several other things that brought back memories of our time there. On the 31st, we drove on down to New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl. We had fun in NO, but unfortunately Bama lost the game against Utah Utes. Ugh. It was terrible. No one even gave Utah a chance at winning, but they came ready to play.
Sheet rock is being finished in the house. However, we have had tons of rain with more on the way. The brick work has stopped and the mud on the sheet rock is taking some time to dry. We have lots and lots of mud on the lot. Now, we need to pick out paint colors, fire places, and trim designs. Fun!
Gas prices remain about the same at $1.45 to $1.50 per gallon. Most food prices are the same, but retailers had tough times over the holidays. Most stores had fabulous sales after Christmas and into the following week.
Today, we are 14 months into our wait for China. That's all I have to say about that.
Hoping for a great 2009!!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
We left on December 30, 2008, and drove to Meridian, MS for the night. We lived there on base for 2 1/2 years. We didn't plan to go to the base and check it out, but we decided to go the next morning. We saw Tide Guy's old office building, our old house, the new Country Store, and several other things that brought back memories of our time there. On the 31st, we drove on down to New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl. We had fun in NO, but unfortunately Bama lost the game against Utah Utes. Ugh. It was terrible. No one even gave Utah a chance at winning, but they came ready to play.
Sheet rock is being finished in the house. However, we have had tons of rain with more on the way. The brick work has stopped and the mud on the sheet rock is taking some time to dry. We have lots and lots of mud on the lot. Now, we need to pick out paint colors, fire places, and trim designs. Fun!
Gas prices remain about the same at $1.45 to $1.50 per gallon. Most food prices are the same, but retailers had tough times over the holidays. Most stores had fabulous sales after Christmas and into the following week.
Today, we are 14 months into our wait for China. That's all I have to say about that.
Hoping for a great 2009!!
Tide Gal & Tide Guy
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