The new kitchen

One of our first big projects around the house has drawn to a close. My wife and I have worked the last several weeks to update our kitchen. We hope someday to build an addition to the house for a "start-from-a-blank-sheet-of-paper" designed kitchen, but for the time being, this will do nicely, I think. We started by sketching a design that added a couple base cabinets to form a peninsula, added a wall cabinet above that, and shortened the one over the 'fridge to match the width of the new 'fridge. We painted the base cabinets a flat black, distressed the edges and corners, and protected them with a satin polyurethane finish. The wall cabinets were painted a cream color, and then had the edges and details highlighted with a brown antiqueing glaze, followed by the same satin polyurethane finish. The old tile countertop was removed and replaced with Santa Cecilia Yellow Granite. The old, but still serviceable, sink and faucet were replaced with a single large bowl stainless sink and distinctive faucet set. We are both pretty pleased with our handiwork, and with the new look in the kitchen.

Spring time in TN

My first Spring in Tennessee is very nice. I am amazed at how early in the year it has started, but am certainly appreciating the warm temperatures. The Bradford Pears have bloomed and are leafing out, the Dogwoods and the Red Buds are still getting started. I've had to mow the yard twice already this year. The weeds we have that stand in for rel grass are doing well, although the clover is growing thick enough to slow the blades on the mower.

As I drive around, I am also noticing how many people are fishing in the lakes created by the dams of the TVA. I read in the Knoxville newspaper that the Crappies are what are being fished. Good eating. But I also read that the TVA said we've not had very much precipitation this last winter, I am wondering whether that means the water level in Ft. Loudoun Lake will stay low?

The new dog

My wife has wanted a new dog since we moved last year. We have told ourselves we enjoyed the freedom to go when we want, but the desire to have a dog again remained. My cousin's youngest daughter told us she was unable to keep her dog and we agreed to adopt it. We picked it up a couple days ago, and she has proceeded to adopt us. Jasmine is a 2-3 lb black Yorkie, about a year and a half old. Very cute and full of personality.

Slight correction: Jasmine is actually 9.5 lbs, according to the scale at the veterinarian's office.

What me blog?

When I first heard of blogging, it seemed strange to me that someone would share diary-like thoughts to the world. Way too personal to be out there for public consumption. But as I read the blogs of my son, his wife, my brother, my nephews, it occurred to me that it is indeed an effective communication tool. So here goes....