Renovataions

So, I am into week two of my home renovation...full kitchen remodel including demolition of a wall that separated the kitchen from the hall and dining room/living room. We are also tackling replacement of old galvanized pipes to copper throughout the house, replacing vintage, toxic insulation, replacing the monster old water heater with a tank-less one and all the other details in between. I will be getting new cabinets, pantries, laundry area, sink, cook top, granite counters and ceramic floor....recessed lighting...the whole shebang. I am so excited. Although it has become a much larger project than originally anticipated, it will be well worth the money, wait and effort. I have a great contractor (after a nightmare first few days with another guy) and his crew is awesome...

In addition to the kitchen renovation, I am also doing a life renovation. I have been taking the time to appreciate the life I currently have, rather than dwell on what I had or should've had. It's been great. I've been trying new things like a 3 mile hike once a week. Started walking and jogging on the treadmill...not every day, but most days. Been trying new foods and exploring my interest in wine. My garden will soon be getting transformed by taking out some trees and shrubs, and replacing them with more color and beauty. My friend Alberto helped me out by building a chain link dog kennel for Buster and Saydee so I can now leave them at home for extended time without having to worry.  I have booked two craft shows for the holiday season, so far. I am hoping for more so I can devote time to crafts, as soon as I unbury the craft room from all the kitchen "stuff".

I had the wonderful joy and pleasure of going up to San Francisco for my best friend's wedding. It was absolutely lovely. Everything about that day was perfection. We cooked, ate, drank, ate, drank...a true life celebration with people I love and adore. I got to attend the reception of another dear friend's wedding the following night...busy, busy, but so worth it!! Just to spend time with wonderful friends and my second families made me so happy and appreciative of being able to travel and celebrate life.

I have made a new wonderful friend who is teaching me to accept myself the way I am, for who I am and has helped me build my self confidence to a higher level. It is refreshing to have someone in my life that I haven't known for years...it is a fresh, new friendship, which is what I need right now. Getting to know someone is the best part of any relationship, friendship or romance. It gives you an opportunity to get to know yourself through someone else's eyes...parts of you that you may have forgotten about or misjudged over time. It is like a reboot for the soul.