much needed house update..

I must admit the last few weeks we have been busy with lots of little "stuff." Things that don't seem worth posting about, but are still huge improvements on the house. I didn't think anyone would really be interested in every step of the painting process, or Ben installing new hardware on the windows, but because I haven't posted in so long, I thought I'd do a little update anyway- even though none of it is quite as exciting (or dirty) as demo and sheetrocking..

With the weather warming up a bit last weekend Ben really spent some time outside. We decided to start repairs to the outside of the house- though we're trying to limit them as much as possible in order to save some money for what I believe to be other necessary items- like furnishings!

But the fascia was something that had to be repaired, so Ben asked a siding installer he works with frequently to take care of it. While originally Ben was considering removing the existing rotted fascia, he decided that it was more practical for us to have the everything covered with aluminum instead. Below you can see what a big difference the aluminum makes..
The area over the garage was completed last weekend- just a taste of what the rest of the house is going to look like when it's done!
Most of the work was completed last weekend and the rest of it will be finished up this weekend.

While all of that work was underway Ben started removing the horrible chain link fence that ran across the front of our property. It was in such bad shape trees had literally grown into and around it.. it was quite an eyesore.
Now we just need to do a little landscaping out front.

And wondering what I've been up to?
Henry's new white patches are a sure hint. I've been painting and he's been rubbing up against every wet surface he can get his paws on.. literally. But this past weekend the walls proved to be childs play- he dipped three paws in a paint tray (full of paint) and ran circles around the living room and on the couch. After I stopped laughing I almost cried, but luckily we were able to clean up his mess. No need to yell at Henry- the bath I gave him afterwards was punishment enough.

Here are a few freshly painted areas..

I was dying to get organized and finally unpack so I started tackling the closets- sanding, cleaning and painting every surface I could get my hands on..

linen closet

bedroom closet

I have one more closet to tackle..

Once I finished those I moved on to the mess of the hall. Those ugly white ceiling tiles were driving me crazy- especially since the other ceilings have all been nicely sheetrocked. I thought painting the tiles would help a bit..
and even though it has, I'm still dying to get rid of them!

And with the ceiling done, I couldn't help my self but get started with the walls. I'd had enough of the dark paneling! That room was begging for a little light!
One more coat is still needed on the walls and of course the trim has to be painted, but I still can't believe how drastic the transformation is..

before

after

Next week we're getting gutters.. yay!! And I'm having the windows measured for window treatments.. I'm sure the neighbors will be happy to hear that!