The Evolution of our Boat Dock

It was fun for me to watch the installation of our gangplank and 2 6ft by 10ft docks yesterday as there was no way I could help...whew!  The 2 men from EMPIRE Dock and Lift in Baldwinsville made it all look so easy.  Joel stepped into assist, though, as they carried each piece down our neighbor's lakefront stairs.  Once they got the goods down to the water they floated all 3 pieces over and then set them in place by screwing 10 foot poles into the sandy bottom for support.  Very cool!  Here is the progression of events...

Oh my my!

We have been waiting with bated breath for the carpet that we ordered for our upstairs hallway, master bedroom, and yoga room to be delivered and installed.  It may have taken 4 hardworking men and 8 straight hours, but the job is complete and we are thrilled!  Call us crazy as we chose a very soft, plush, snow white rug that is just dreamy under our bare feet.  Ask me how I feel about it in 6 months after micro bits of our dirty world start settling in:)  Here are some photos before we begin to place some furniture (not too many pieces) and artwork (lots!) into the rooms.

Check back in at the end of the week as I think we will have the bed, side tables and lamps, dresser, and mirror all set into place.  (I hope!)

Function and Design Unite

Our fence, gate, railing, and grab bar installation is complete, and we are so pleased with the end result! It is always a pleasure to work with Agost as he listens to our needs and design ideas and comes up with several options that all fit the bill.  We wanted the main fence and gate to be similar to the upper deck which he made and installed last July.  Success!

The railing off the back (or as Joel calls it, the front!) steps is reminiscent of the welcoming arms entryways of the South.  We like the gentle curve that invites guests in.  Typically the railing would be on both sides, but we chose to have just the one put in.

I am especially enamored with the grab bar that the guys put in between the Rustic Room and the kitchen.  As many of you know, the steps there are a bit high and some assistance is necessary to make the transition.  Agost was able to mimic the design of my appliance handles and cupboard pulls.  So pretty!

Big doings next week as the carpet is being delivered and installed on Tuesday.  Check back in mid week to see how it looks.

So Sorry for the Delay...

As I look back at my last post I realize that it has been quite a while since I have updated everyone as to what is going on at the house.  We are settling in nicely and continue to complete many odds and ends projects.  Joel has been quite busy with weeding and cleaning up and organizing the garage.  He used up all of the extra wood that was piled up in the garage to create a wooden floor in the basement.  Very unique!  He also created a fenced in area in the garage for the dogs to escape to if it gets too hot outside.  We have hung new artwork (see below!) and have entertained 2 sets of dear friends from out of town (also see below!!)

butterflies from La Mariposa

Betsy Franz prints and the Wardwell Hardware sign we found 

under the floorboards

John and Deb from California

Ron and Fran...aka Fron

Rauli's Ironworks came on Friday to install several outdoor railings and an indoor grab bar.  They are returning tomorrow to put in the front fence and gate.  Stay tuned and I will post pictures of all of the above once the work has been completed!