do you see what I see???

Lots of work going on here. Thought I'd post a few pictures to share the progress. Right now, it doesn't look like much, but believe me they've been working hard. Yes, I did take this picture of Clay's tool belt...only a scrapbooker does such random things, but before you think he thinks I'm on the crazy side, I did it while he was at lunch. ;)

<--<--<--This is before. During the clean out and rip out stage. The garage was originally a carport that had been closed in, so it had this little shed enclosed in the back. So everything is out of the garage and temporarily in basement or backyard until we get out little shed building for the back.
<--<--<--This is today. Floor is partially in, ducts run underneath and the back has been sealed up until they cut out the middle for double French doors. Poor Sage is having to use the front yard and is having denial issues about it. She goes to the back door to tell us she wants out and then very begrungingly comes out into the front.


<--<--<--Wanted to show you that I'm discovering what a mess remodeling is....This is my driveway. Full of wood and insulation. There are powertools plugged in all over getting charged up and piles of debris. Not exactly going into the "most beautiful Christmas decor" category of the Maryland Heights newsletter.


So, Kate and I met Clay yesterday and did some preliminary shopping for flooring and countertops. Here's a pic of the tile I'm thinking for the kitchen. It's a warm beigy color with a darker gray grout line.


It is so incredible that all this is happening and I'm overwhelmed and excited all at the same time. Thanks to all my dearest for listening to me go on and on and helping and supporting me through it all. I couldn't do it without you!

In other news: Big Christmas program on Thurs. night.
Kate officially "hates" naps, rest time, anything that resembles those things.
I need to cook a nice meal for my family. I've been a major slacker in that area
lately.
As much as I love, love, love Receiving Christmas cards, the chances of me Sending any are pretty slim :(
I can't wait for Christmas! No, really. I can't wait. Seriously. I'm really looking forward to being with my family and having fun with the kids. It is exhausting, yes, but magical. It comes and goes so fast. I've decided that it's going to be the best Christmas EVER! (hey, it's all about attitude, right?)