A New Year

So much has been going on since I last posted. All good for the most part.

January was the month to reflect on the holidays. What worked? What didn't? What new traditions were created? Things like that.  January was also the month to clean out my holiday notebook.

In February I did a lot of decluttering with my friends over at Magical Holiday Home.  It started out small but then turned into a major overhaul for me.  The reason? My little palace is going through a face-lift.

Yup, I recently had my kitchen completely gutted out and replaced with new everything: cabinets, appliances and flooring.  I am so happy with the results.  I can't wait to be in there baking and cooking away during the holidays.

Here's a few photos of before and after.

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

Now this is a kitchen I can cook in. I have more counter space to work on. Also having another wall of cabinets gives me more storage for my cookware that was previously being stored in the coat closet. You may have noticed a large opening between the floor cabinets.  That's where the dishwasher will be installed in a few days.

And let me tell you, they didn't skimp on the appliances either.  Top of the line (Whirlpool) fridge,  stove and built-in microwave.  I am really going to enjoy using this oven.  It's self cleaning, has a buit-in timer and can act as a warmer.  I was truly impressed.

I bought this island from Ikea.  It's great for storing larger items that can't fit into the cabinets and keeping extra dish cloths, towels, etc. close at hand.  This island also serves as extra work space as well as a serving area during parties. (Like a girls night which is in the very near future)



A new, larger light fixture replaces the old, small one making the kitchen brighter since I don't have a window.

Not only did I get a new light fixture in the kitchen, but in the dining room as well.  The finish matches the large mirror on the wall perfectly.

They also replaced the flooring in the foyer.  It's the same flooring used in the kitchen.

The kitchen is just the start. I'm also getting new carpet throughout, new flooring in the bathroom and all  the closet doors will be replaced.  So you know what that means...more decluttering.

I'll keep you posted.