DIY Kitchen Remodel | New Verona Range

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvsMGXTTUvYCdX5E76V1OWIxpgYwiU2nrW4IZzO7LhcmRmK3wsrpeyLAia0QeWhoYP52Zlcx0NPca9c8P2atGCd95c0DQuuxyga1BOBW-2y4zAjuu30AlvIbJ4-g9QgJU57AFahsqIPTeg/s1600/IMG_2986.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvsMGXTTUvYCdX5E76V1OWIxpgYwiU2nrW4IZzO7LhcmRmK3wsrpeyLAia0QeWhoYP52Zlcx0NPca9c8P2atGCd95c0DQuuxyga1BOBW-2y4zAjuu30AlvIbJ4-g9QgJU57AFahsqIPTeg/s640/IMG_2986.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is finally here!  Granted, I only had to wait 3 days for it to arrive, but it has been a long time coming.  In our first house, we had installed a 36" gas range.  We'd just received all of our new cookware - All Clad and Staub - and I felt like I had it my stride.  I loved it, but it sold with the house. Then, we moved to our house in Concord, Ma. that we rented which came with appliances - an electric flattop range.  It was good looking, but I really missed the control of a real gas range.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When we moved into our new house, it came with a 1990-ish black gas range.  Hum.  It <i>was</i> gas.  It worked great.  It was fine.  I decided that with all of the other expenses we were incurring with the new move, I could live with it.  Yes, I decided I would wait until we did the new addition to the house that would include a new kitchen to replace it.  Then, it happened. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A few weeks ago, I was baking some test scones for my cooking class... and the oven never turned on.  Hum...  I tried it that night - worked.  Must have been a fluke.  Ugh.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A week later, I was getting ready to bake some cookies- no heat.  No heat for our pre-bedtime cookies?!  That's where I draw the line.  Most people would have been annoyed...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I sent an email to <a href="http://www.veronaappliances.com/productlistpage.php?catid=35" target="_blank">Verona</a>.  Three days later... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvAUuWh5Fr7upz8HlJ7rhaDE9B7RZPmD9jOhfEbaFID3oyxf0X9isBfG0arQr8B1MDoGYEXJnd_iAVqSbf9K260YsPWbUYqL4X8GgVEoJOuA0ThzQ4RpTuD3d-9le1pBw7ouNDoTcLkIgZ/s1600/IMG_2977.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvAUuWh5Fr7upz8HlJ7rhaDE9B7RZPmD9jOhfEbaFID3oyxf0X9isBfG0arQr8B1MDoGYEXJnd_iAVqSbf9K260YsPWbUYqL4X8GgVEoJOuA0ThzQ4RpTuD3d-9le1pBw7ouNDoTcLkIgZ/s640/IMG_2977.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">She's here!  And in a way, I finally feel like "I'm back." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRCacFIIFNDEfBH-HMwPac4Cm_5B6zXUp1mVTmsvuMgFAnBH86ba_LrsVBWXqpHgsDd4ys0rBvAW7EOC0KQhPT8bGDZijXJcyB0uaoOgpalgvxU-flaSbaMUVjLqa2OaRyUrB4X7e4Ah7/s1600/IMG_0866.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRCacFIIFNDEfBH-HMwPac4Cm_5B6zXUp1mVTmsvuMgFAnBH86ba_LrsVBWXqpHgsDd4ys0rBvAW7EOC0KQhPT8bGDZijXJcyB0uaoOgpalgvxU-flaSbaMUVjLqa2OaRyUrB4X7e4Ah7/s320/IMG_0866.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRCacFIIFNDEfBH-HMwPac4Cm_5B6zXUp1mVTmsvuMgFAnBH86ba_LrsVBWXqpHgsDd4ys0rBvAW7EOC0KQhPT8bGDZijXJcyB0uaoOgpalgvxU-flaSbaMUVjLqa2OaRyUrB4X7e4Ah7/s1600/IMG_0866.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5t43EPr-ylYu7ax1KajBRc_Yu7vsVY9XKedhh3wIsEVF22EqCGcZS0WDiaWbkRQThrTeYmuyK-y31Lze4AkZlKsz9bmcJXEy69Gp6oGEUY8ShJ1EjcfLm1P9S-KpwRd2LSkM7YmBAk3Rg/s1600/IMG_2895.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5t43EPr-ylYu7ax1KajBRc_Yu7vsVY9XKedhh3wIsEVF22EqCGcZS0WDiaWbkRQThrTeYmuyK-y31Lze4AkZlKsz9bmcJXEy69Gp6oGEUY8ShJ1EjcfLm1P9S-KpwRd2LSkM7YmBAk3Rg/s320/IMG_2895.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><br /><br />For the sake of comparison : New vs. Old<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HquYZEclp-zLjMI538Q-Se5BKfcT3dFt_uJKud7wvNaAisWwLvvi41-R648SgnVJPyoqEotYJBEIdAQOHSD7JJEo89PrJD6Jhdg-jkDRuMCNDxx3viL6RAz9CTqE4pD9WQo5GiLEL66d/s1600/IMG_0848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HquYZEclp-zLjMI538Q-Se5BKfcT3dFt_uJKud7wvNaAisWwLvvi41-R648SgnVJPyoqEotYJBEIdAQOHSD7JJEo89PrJD6Jhdg-jkDRuMCNDxx3viL6RAz9CTqE4pD9WQo5GiLEL66d/s400/IMG_0848.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>When I was doing research for a new range, I knew the look I was after.  I didn't quite (or even close...) have the $10K budget for a Viking, but I really wanted a professional-grade 36" stainless steel gas range.  So I looked around.<br /><br />A <a href="http://www.veronaappliances.com/productlistpage.php?catid=35" target="_blank">Verona</a>.  I'm not sure where I found it, but when I did I was shocked.  She was beautiful.  She was commercial looking.  She was Italian.  But I wasn't sure how much she cost... $3,500 (AJ Madison).  Sold.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPxgGy37n9YefqM-hSh0_ZP5M-72ZZp4ezN57YklQYqjqHBzP_3xTmcPdvXJD3OGzxPvwUjYSkRL-9A_hRC63CYsQ0sRSrIQCu49u9Cd0K9N9tvOxIZOnbcnnVn8vo4ziDwBeUs29yg3YC/s1600/IMG_0853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPxgGy37n9YefqM-hSh0_ZP5M-72ZZp4ezN57YklQYqjqHBzP_3xTmcPdvXJD3OGzxPvwUjYSkRL-9A_hRC63CYsQ0sRSrIQCu49u9Cd0K9N9tvOxIZOnbcnnVn8vo4ziDwBeUs29yg3YC/s640/IMG_0853.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is the online description of the <a href="http://www.veronaappliances.com/productlistpage.php?catid=35" target="_blank">Verona Duel Fuel 36" Gas Range</a>: <br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><i>Exquisite Italian design meets superior power and performance in this 36-Inch Dual Fuel Range by Verona. Elegant chrome knobs and handles compliment type 304 stainless steel construction for professional looking style and function while Duel Fuel delivers the best of both cooking worlds, the control of a gas cooktop and the consistency of an electric oven. The Verona series range has a cooktop with five high-power sealed burners offering semi, dual and triple ring configurations for optimal cooking power.  The large capacity electric oven features a multi-function programming with European convection and added element allowing for more uniform oven temperature.  Added features of the Verona range include a digital clock and timer, continuous cast iron grates, EZ clean oven surface and a spacious full-width storage compartment.   Customize this Verona range with four color choices- burgundy, antique white, matte black and stainless steel- four backguard choices and an optional rounded handle.   Available accessories include easy-glide rolling racks, a range top griddle and maple cutting board.</i></blockquote><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkK-yJ5dgR_bsIbhkjiKusH2sLiaqTGeqdxv_Z9FQGOneWoc_2v-8xy4_cwTpu0n9t8dnavy99YFH8Ow_UuvJ_j9cjKSdISmrxZ7QBSmyblLmjkUMjnvvln3gxKJxznw4V9DrR8jJyMTlk/s1600/IMG_0854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkK-yJ5dgR_bsIbhkjiKusH2sLiaqTGeqdxv_Z9FQGOneWoc_2v-8xy4_cwTpu0n9t8dnavy99YFH8Ow_UuvJ_j9cjKSdISmrxZ7QBSmyblLmjkUMjnvvln3gxKJxznw4V9DrR8jJyMTlk/s640/IMG_0854.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So far, I have absolutely looovvved it.  No complaints.  Not only does it look like a professional range, but it works like one, too.  I have complete control over the flame, the grates are heavy and handle my big heavy pots and pans like a champ, and it cleans up really well.  I got the duel fuel - gas stove top and electric oven.  The best of both worlds.  </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vNYSJAQM3x_OLUquQxHxr93UT1-uqTFVWiA1oot1DEtjvyEWK16xgHeU9gUkTkg8EXwhlpGvMWLvEeIyw0GdzUN_FWZu41gy4hU3dox9NgGQQytWXOQ1GGrE7tJVzHqa7ozwBqmNaodp/s1600/IMG_2982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vNYSJAQM3x_OLUquQxHxr93UT1-uqTFVWiA1oot1DEtjvyEWK16xgHeU9gUkTkg8EXwhlpGvMWLvEeIyw0GdzUN_FWZu41gy4hU3dox9NgGQQytWXOQ1GGrE7tJVzHqa7ozwBqmNaodp/s640/IMG_2982.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We also purchased a new refrigerator - GE Cafe French Door.  I love that it also has a commercial look.  I think the two look great together without being the same brand.<br /><br />As I posted last week, we also ripped out the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-kitchen-dyi-remodel-new-open.html" target="_blank">upper cabinets on the left side of the kitchen and replaced it with open shelving</a>.  Some of the other upgrades include DIY subway tile counter tops, new antique brass pulls and solid wood paneling backsplash.   <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwyUjW9Fj3GeXUTo_B4Rw9c1TelU65tjmSJVtT1FHbJ3XGwETFKe4A67O5VsvhyeytwpT4y1e3vAgR5osGiKENPL9MgdY1nUjU_eUt4iiyOWdN5Iffq578l0cEFTawaKOvNXfiaHKjhYM/s1600/IMG_0841.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwyUjW9Fj3GeXUTo_B4Rw9c1TelU65tjmSJVtT1FHbJ3XGwETFKe4A67O5VsvhyeytwpT4y1e3vAgR5osGiKENPL9MgdY1nUjU_eUt4iiyOWdN5Iffq578l0cEFTawaKOvNXfiaHKjhYM/s640/IMG_0841.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br /><br /> Up next... our DIY subway tile counter tops.  It was a great $40 way to brighten up our kitchen.  Yes - $40!

DIY Kitchen Remodel | New Verona Range

It is finally here!  Granted, I only had to wait 3 days for it to arrive, but it has been a long time coming.  In our first house, we had in...

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Kitchen Update + Giveaway winners

Random title for a random post.<br /><br />I'm back from our big adventure to Costa Rica (yes, I'm still alive!) and it was everything I ever dreamed of...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHNSupDPsgCeBBqBFf0Kg4VVse0OmQUwvLuk6cu7gCc3Ovwp29uPJqi3NQ_CqlbSgLL3GFaOTYO_4i5MUsJy2cwofX6G7OzQMe7eg8E49GheF6XGrkg4mfciz9fAYh782kV7BnZAKFNsV/s1600/Costa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHNSupDPsgCeBBqBFf0Kg4VVse0OmQUwvLuk6cu7gCc3Ovwp29uPJqi3NQ_CqlbSgLL3GFaOTYO_4i5MUsJy2cwofX6G7OzQMe7eg8E49GheF6XGrkg4mfciz9fAYh782kV7BnZAKFNsV/s640/Costa.jpg" width="422" /></a></div><br />From playing with monkeys to ziplining to tubing to mud baths & hot springs to rock climbing and horseback riding and even a 6.6 earthquake... this trip was one for the recordbooks.<br /><br />I wanted to bring a piece of it home with me to remember, and I didn't have to look farther than the beach. Their beaches are amazing. Filled with miles of driftwood, pristine seashells and large chunks of coral. <br /><br />I've been wanting my own piece of driftwood forever now, and had given up on finding any at our local beaches (they are scooped up the second they appear), so I hit the jackpot on this trip.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4bF793JJoWDT6tQTs7w9-3kIwwIkGBspI2gYj71ZpZgThx_h4r2fQSxyzDfgr0iXjl5qtCgrXZJAnUniIL7DHmHwa2bx1jNkGapnkKDiLBGuiIrbcRtT34D51GGbMuciYAbeeLlBHNAQD/s1600/IMG_9328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4bF793JJoWDT6tQTs7w9-3kIwwIkGBspI2gYj71ZpZgThx_h4r2fQSxyzDfgr0iXjl5qtCgrXZJAnUniIL7DHmHwa2bx1jNkGapnkKDiLBGuiIrbcRtT34D51GGbMuciYAbeeLlBHNAQD/s1600/IMG_9328.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />It was small enough to fit in my suitcase, and just the perfect size for the console table. <br />I love the black volcanic ash twisted into the wood. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikR0-50fYAx43HzoqGuMR0zjeykQK4r_dmnfZfdHF8SQICOFEx1No_fEypbsuwaBxY-J77LHSHKIF9UC6zoyUK5dHqpecgYVWUKl9FmMJiWJd2DVPgU3uGhNih5q3JXwtQct-6n8uhBDRf/s1600/IMG_9331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikR0-50fYAx43HzoqGuMR0zjeykQK4r_dmnfZfdHF8SQICOFEx1No_fEypbsuwaBxY-J77LHSHKIF9UC6zoyUK5dHqpecgYVWUKl9FmMJiWJd2DVPgU3uGhNih5q3JXwtQct-6n8uhBDRf/s1600/IMG_9331.jpg" /></a></div><br />And of course, I couldn't leave without a stash of shells and coral...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOu7qLxRi0BE5gKtXh_wlGJsz008hrYutVuai6T2jTY-XemrnYtVEObgWJyOWTFLieyIF3_7GJ5G4bfD97cUPW4g4oIMMj-Dn4-qeAXh-hxPrL4v_Zxf7LFn0Gh-nq9AyxkO3z6EcRxX_I/s1600/IMG_9342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOu7qLxRi0BE5gKtXh_wlGJsz008hrYutVuai6T2jTY-XemrnYtVEObgWJyOWTFLieyIF3_7GJ5G4bfD97cUPW4g4oIMMj-Dn4-qeAXh-hxPrL4v_Zxf7LFn0Gh-nq9AyxkO3z6EcRxX_I/s1600/IMG_9342.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Aren't they neat? The sand is just littered with them. <br /><br />After soaking them in bleach (to get rid of any lingering saltwater nasties) and letting them dry, I had to find a place to display them.<br /><br />I had this old candle jar that I thought would work on the same console table underneath the driftwood:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVck1Z7Saa2_BHLrgGUrBVgWQc0puH6m9ARJOc9DHiKX7YrIZV8vNUL-gvAbpxYHTi_De_KZUBUICHvXWVgUtE4fSc985S4y7Jtv6FT5Hpq9BVkJOVxI23rWX5SBI6P4blcxSO1AaZUR4d/s1600/IMG_9340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVck1Z7Saa2_BHLrgGUrBVgWQc0puH6m9ARJOc9DHiKX7YrIZV8vNUL-gvAbpxYHTi_De_KZUBUICHvXWVgUtE4fSc985S4y7Jtv6FT5Hpq9BVkJOVxI23rWX5SBI6P4blcxSO1AaZUR4d/s1600/IMG_9340.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />A quick google search instructed me to freeze it for a couple hours and the wax will pop right out.<br /><br />After removing it from the freezer, I tried to pry it out with a knife, and then this happeend...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBJp4pQTlnbbrMJQjcptFQXCA8rgvt7zTnmJLzmUyM4CTIMqTqjKyY9UXSLmTD_CfNoH8g8p-kiJW3ScKleFpVV9tuwwi5KJ1COhAriJLaMGJnWwJdbUqdzFkajZh3kanCrFNHNWjovfx/s1600/IMG_9356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBJp4pQTlnbbrMJQjcptFQXCA8rgvt7zTnmJLzmUyM4CTIMqTqjKyY9UXSLmTD_CfNoH8g8p-kiJW3ScKleFpVV9tuwwi5KJ1COhAriJLaMGJnWwJdbUqdzFkajZh3kanCrFNHNWjovfx/s1600/IMG_9356.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Whoops, time for a plan B.<br /><br />I didn't have any more candles in that size, but I did have a smaller one, so I figured I'd give this experiment another try:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWOdGVL3ZLnL2RBnyt3-123aIu2FggqGkA-iH8-5v5269rU86g3fSxylhd3k1ts2BMW8uS2_BX-UxYqhAHoh01b0od2sNhBym0iJVo9TMsFzLiQguaeZikxLOawPPUUBBpR3oFerGSj8s/s1600/IMG_9359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWOdGVL3ZLnL2RBnyt3-123aIu2FggqGkA-iH8-5v5269rU86g3fSxylhd3k1ts2BMW8uS2_BX-UxYqhAHoh01b0od2sNhBym0iJVo9TMsFzLiQguaeZikxLOawPPUUBBpR3oFerGSj8s/s1600/IMG_9359.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />This time it fell right out on its own.<br /><br />I gave it a quick scrub and rinse, and I had a fresh empty jar:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnzmfBgbNd6CChseD5Khudh06pPKffIZ7K_e9bsFuz7_qYcbqDCbdmwGuVV0a7H2RN3Lm6JGKu14oiF_q9p4C-67PyYswZRGN4NJgtc00rf2b4JFvMZwpDs2VCx8yOqUbesDctDbJ5RTR/s1600/IMG_9361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnzmfBgbNd6CChseD5Khudh06pPKffIZ7K_e9bsFuz7_qYcbqDCbdmwGuVV0a7H2RN3Lm6JGKu14oiF_q9p4C-67PyYswZRGN4NJgtc00rf2b4JFvMZwpDs2VCx8yOqUbesDctDbJ5RTR/s1600/IMG_9361.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Perfect size for a shell display.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHULdyK4hw8C_Mjme4yco4t_fpdsE2r-KVieJP_NIx_ghdDd-GgPHNFg_v6VPX-AG-CPvXJEcStg7brfRa4ugQij2GMIAaq6Tvtxhru34KtAfJFqaptgP-O4raB0OhXJhpVJMAkhbAJUT4/s1600/IMG_9363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHULdyK4hw8C_Mjme4yco4t_fpdsE2r-KVieJP_NIx_ghdDd-GgPHNFg_v6VPX-AG-CPvXJEcStg7brfRa4ugQij2GMIAaq6Tvtxhru34KtAfJFqaptgP-O4raB0OhXJhpVJMAkhbAJUT4/s1600/IMG_9363.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHh7Unrqy3zZq9_6qk9nv9qtC5X6aJ_6bLa7NnHPxaJS4US792MivCj0cyi4Mntct4cWHXuSy-nPwdneH3ZYiYrQFwQvW5C9rBcRXMxXrSNdrxGH9tMPW72wwUd9X9mUlhyphenhyphenNOj0BYABezO/s1600/IMG_9364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHh7Unrqy3zZq9_6qk9nv9qtC5X6aJ_6bLa7NnHPxaJS4US792MivCj0cyi4Mntct4cWHXuSy-nPwdneH3ZYiYrQFwQvW5C9rBcRXMxXrSNdrxGH9tMPW72wwUd9X9mUlhyphenhyphenNOj0BYABezO/s1600/IMG_9364.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I placed it here for now but it will inevitably relocate in the future. <br /><br /><br />Now, moving on.<br /><br />It has been 9 months since we put the finishing touches on our kitchen. So in the time it takes to grow a baby, our cabinets have gone from perfect shiny white:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_67RdvJS0mHwoDsYjIYHMzicHck5mdL2odS4kX-aMkg8YfXuCEU71lL8P32113C1MYC74bNBHjHcrkfOniOAxk7mDOptdAKbk7Oxs9rh1harmekuluASkWD9hf9LbXoEO46zQi4Wv1aiA/s1600/IMG_7328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_67RdvJS0mHwoDsYjIYHMzicHck5mdL2odS4kX-aMkg8YfXuCEU71lL8P32113C1MYC74bNBHjHcrkfOniOAxk7mDOptdAKbk7Oxs9rh1harmekuluASkWD9hf9LbXoEO46zQi4Wv1aiA/s640/IMG_7328.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />To slightly less pristine:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rkewSHwj5tni1OispSpsnkByyC6Uu-X61S7A0jdHP45nYZR5xTLXRv0sTlYTPB9N5r5IRuMxAEJ4on-76aGkQPnIBp2YJhNnowvBtcvH-cZzkCcGhOYMpIUAvGlLx8F1o8B2B47lAToe/s1600/IMG_9255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rkewSHwj5tni1OispSpsnkByyC6Uu-X61S7A0jdHP45nYZR5xTLXRv0sTlYTPB9N5r5IRuMxAEJ4on-76aGkQPnIBp2YJhNnowvBtcvH-cZzkCcGhOYMpIUAvGlLx8F1o8B2B47lAToe/s1600/IMG_9255.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuaKitn19GT2aeU11bAakf23lUnvTwd_0sv5hWv7Fa9w4ut3LUItxRlwWhDrUw_W7iboMvx7KpPmkHrOTSFI_KhETI6o_TH31dS4-7nS4l0BTvHYPuzeAsfbXy9daEicN7wcpS8yE86qiN/s1600/IMG_9259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuaKitn19GT2aeU11bAakf23lUnvTwd_0sv5hWv7Fa9w4ut3LUItxRlwWhDrUw_W7iboMvx7KpPmkHrOTSFI_KhETI6o_TH31dS4-7nS4l0BTvHYPuzeAsfbXy9daEicN7wcpS8yE86qiN/s1600/IMG_9259.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />Caulk has a bad habit of shrinking/disappearing over time, and it was becoming evident by the cracks in the seams. Not only that, but I felt like the paint was wearing down a bit in some places, like here:<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmzP8t4KXUipEiK4XRVDduaAO4GEg-VDtuHPZcNTt4-UVpVttpR9wcd4LegQRcGcoooNvrHI7CS_Ek5a9meRdXqhW8XOgF6AuWcrEgFn80sR1zok699fv7PwI4nJuoYSzcjZvIXzcApK1/s1600/IMG_9257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmzP8t4KXUipEiK4XRVDduaAO4GEg-VDtuHPZcNTt4-UVpVttpR9wcd4LegQRcGcoooNvrHI7CS_Ek5a9meRdXqhW8XOgF6AuWcrEgFn80sR1zok699fv7PwI4nJuoYSzcjZvIXzcApK1/s1600/IMG_9257.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />And here:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKaBNEEMWGL0T02wXvRnBFyllRpBwfd0Y_cePfQTUbD656r3EScND_pUKZfIFCuGumth2BLCXBVvoNQkL2Duwwcy1fTMc_rAZPR8wcrXFM8z6qaXjekHeKYbKrVmBC0lw-OVU6aXLzVR3/s1600/IMG_9258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKaBNEEMWGL0T02wXvRnBFyllRpBwfd0Y_cePfQTUbD656r3EScND_pUKZfIFCuGumth2BLCXBVvoNQkL2Duwwcy1fTMc_rAZPR8wcrXFM8z6qaXjekHeKYbKrVmBC0lw-OVU6aXLzVR3/s1600/IMG_9258.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuaKitn19GT2aeU11bAakf23lUnvTwd_0sv5hWv7Fa9w4ut3LUItxRlwWhDrUw_W7iboMvx7KpPmkHrOTSFI_KhETI6o_TH31dS4-7nS4l0BTvHYPuzeAsfbXy9daEicN7wcpS8yE86qiN/s1600/IMG_9259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>  </div>Even though we completely followed the rules, step by step, and even made sure to be a little generous on the paint coverage so this wouldn't happen.<br /><br />Regardless, it started bothering me enough to the point where I needed to break out the  <br />caulk & paint for touchups.<br /><br />Caulk first:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMB0V3fmMn60sSULaVugW8qfPC6L3NJMJgCjsoTGVOOMHVi9o7OIK0aT6GmETKIl5cPnZCHlNUrUwUeM8x7PqS2EeWYsXaANFxtQoghRdgErJUdhYFMOy5aDsLyIaERViS9OBGPYDhvaj/s1600/IMG_9260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMB0V3fmMn60sSULaVugW8qfPC6L3NJMJgCjsoTGVOOMHVi9o7OIK0aT6GmETKIl5cPnZCHlNUrUwUeM8x7PqS2EeWYsXaANFxtQoghRdgErJUdhYFMOy5aDsLyIaERViS9OBGPYDhvaj/s1600/IMG_9260.jpg" /></a></div><br />After a thorough cleaning, I generously lined all of the cabinet seams and let it dry.<br /><br />So much better already.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4e_a0o6YzOIaU80znUa4qlYGVI8FBPy0pi87ZAktGg0H5zGC3tQZ7qxVFhdpvabv3zXLA4Pnrx7J6yKwQAMjmBjBByM0JN5biZ5DvVPLnZOLUwMcxFQyIvmdXU3xbI84B4Mo4CKObv4w6/s1600/IMG_9263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4e_a0o6YzOIaU80znUa4qlYGVI8FBPy0pi87ZAktGg0H5zGC3tQZ7qxVFhdpvabv3zXLA4Pnrx7J6yKwQAMjmBjBByM0JN5biZ5DvVPLnZOLUwMcxFQyIvmdXU3xbI84B4Mo4CKObv4w6/s1600/IMG_9263.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuaKitn19GT2aeU11bAakf23lUnvTwd_0sv5hWv7Fa9w4ut3LUItxRlwWhDrUw_W7iboMvx7KpPmkHrOTSFI_KhETI6o_TH31dS4-7nS4l0BTvHYPuzeAsfbXy9daEicN7wcpS8yE86qiN/s1600/IMG_9259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>Yesterday I came back in with a paintbrush to cover up any areas where the paint was worn down or the grain was peeking through.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0VoATf58wv8o6LsBnmqlVc_cLz-cqTj1seI8qSXJs7zBoPhzqHKrlfwVcAX5v0ObA7Azaz3s9K0BdvNX1SaX51uu-spfkVOwtL2zcF1dhQZ_hTxMlINLw3lBcfFW4UBKJUDPlAm31pWo/s1600/IMG_9320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0VoATf58wv8o6LsBnmqlVc_cLz-cqTj1seI8qSXJs7zBoPhzqHKrlfwVcAX5v0ObA7Azaz3s9K0BdvNX1SaX51uu-spfkVOwtL2zcF1dhQZ_hTxMlINLw3lBcfFW4UBKJUDPlAm31pWo/s1600/IMG_9320.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />And now they are back to normal! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXtBdxn1bJwTNj5_bmJ01jAv3tvaJ1dYu0tqSD9eDDfuF4o5ruW104zo3Twzx5qBvXTkuL1eUNySHAxDqIqE-2Nrh_6dxFNVzfRYZ-rn9Hy5dMFUaCtnfMQ8wy9yp5QVk2wIQWVVGNYYj3/s1600/IMG_9345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXtBdxn1bJwTNj5_bmJ01jAv3tvaJ1dYu0tqSD9eDDfuF4o5ruW104zo3Twzx5qBvXTkuL1eUNySHAxDqIqE-2Nrh_6dxFNVzfRYZ-rn9Hy5dMFUaCtnfMQ8wy9yp5QVk2wIQWVVGNYYj3/s1600/IMG_9345.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxfxSu1YbivyHpF5RFqxhwzHaFHI1tIrNKpIhuqtq8cbfbYT3ml08_lLJr6kSa0KKCfGL2Q_qDurbq0ABPmWTImTK8LzXpkoPHZYZ2is2sY8fG91GvrWki27yK3VprgeyBMIo8L3LLIzK3/s1600/IMG_9347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxfxSu1YbivyHpF5RFqxhwzHaFHI1tIrNKpIhuqtq8cbfbYT3ml08_lLJr6kSa0KKCfGL2Q_qDurbq0ABPmWTImTK8LzXpkoPHZYZ2is2sY8fG91GvrWki27yK3VprgeyBMIo8L3LLIzK3/s1600/IMG_9347.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzagIXXX87_nyP4dKw69IeL94znn1oPaPxk6lA6SJN-mkxaOIiTr7dOXAY1rlfNlfHcAnBk5RVu-zE-qZ3A3WAfub0ReSc0Xc0eIxVup3ePIzhS0HLHyjE7I5MiU3_JXkRv-iDZ_S_VUGl/s1600/IMG_9346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BwPXUHgB5S22914ZcMgkgjrVZpgICN65CKfCW3b9W9kzAwjt900u2o_3b-O-VByOHriEnCNKe5H3IJwVlykp90VovFdxeQ9BYmrZssqP6G4v3_yTOc1fNI6f32KtvW3C7jkuMxG7zvGb/s1600/IMG_9351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BwPXUHgB5S22914ZcMgkgjrVZpgICN65CKfCW3b9W9kzAwjt900u2o_3b-O-VByOHriEnCNKe5H3IJwVlykp90VovFdxeQ9BYmrZssqP6G4v3_yTOc1fNI6f32KtvW3C7jkuMxG7zvGb/s1600/IMG_9351.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3AN57jdp_sCy-3Nih83RwwK8Da5coFUgnB5HIZVzh_uyS35TC7FK12_QQ3DlZ8Z_jWFu6wgYUft2G_krIk9xd0qwtyY0NnC2cFBeOkbEjyXLVZslgpaoEnD_59b0nxNJk094OoPpfg3e/s1600/IMG_9352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3AN57jdp_sCy-3Nih83RwwK8Da5coFUgnB5HIZVzh_uyS35TC7FK12_QQ3DlZ8Z_jWFu6wgYUft2G_krIk9xd0qwtyY0NnC2cFBeOkbEjyXLVZslgpaoEnD_59b0nxNJk094OoPpfg3e/s1600/IMG_9352.jpg" /></a></div><br />Let's hope this lasts.<br /><br /><br />And now... it's time to announce the five winners of my customized iPhone 4 template giveaway!<br /><br />Here are the randomly chosen names, in no particular order:<br /><br /><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_0M" kind="m"><cite class="user"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/08423703990305341157" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: black;">Lizzie @ PrettyCityThings</span></a><span style="color: black;">  </span></cite><span style="color: black;">Awesomesauce. I'd pick a London cityscape. I've already got a clear case just waiting to be filled! Have a great trip! :)</span></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"><span style="color: black;"></span> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_4M" kind="m"><cite class="user"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/08380662803266455431" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: black;">gk</span></a> </cite><span style="color: black;">This is awesome! I've been on the hunt for a giraffe iphone 4 case but haven't found anything I like. I would pick the giraffe!! Have fun in Costa Rica :)</span></div><div class="comment-content"><span style="color: black;"></span> </div><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_12M" kind="m"><cite class="user"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/06870029030857845399" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: black;">J and J Washburn</span></a>  </cite><span style="color: black;">I'd love to have the Seattle cityscape so I can rep my hometown!</span></div><div class="comment-content"><span style="color: black;"></span> </div><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_19M" kind="m"><cite class="user"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/14335861198929952382" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: black;">Derek and Britt</span></a>  </cite><span style="color: black;">I would love the California State Silhouette! Have an awesome trip!</span></div><div class="comment-content"><span style="color: black;"></span> </div><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_23M" kind="m"><span style="color: black;"><cite class="user">Melissa R </cite></span><span style="color: black;">How fun! I would love a country silhouette of Japan, blue chevron, with a little heart on Tokyo to remind me of when I used to live there :)</span></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"><strong>Winners:</strong> please email jennasuedesignco [at] gmail.com with your selections and I'll get working on them right away. Congrats to you guys, and thank you all for your comments! </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">And finally... it has been over a month since I've really done anything D&R related, so I'm anxious to jump back in with a kitchen project.</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">This one should be...... fun?</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7r80xzJfqc-26raOr8JCqsRkirQ9ouLPQ3Bqx-CRWouOjbXvGX3i9G9TpISVGZiIby7Figy-0bkIWcsi21AHXzx63lJWf3SFJohtOwAgBe3UgEbuAznEIbse9I88BbcLuJj4YAR9BPcwx/s1600/IMG_9308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7r80xzJfqc-26raOr8JCqsRkirQ9ouLPQ3Bqx-CRWouOjbXvGX3i9G9TpISVGZiIby7Figy-0bkIWcsi21AHXzx63lJWf3SFJohtOwAgBe3UgEbuAznEIbse9I88BbcLuJj4YAR9BPcwx/s1600/IMG_9308.jpg" /></a></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">Operation Pantry Remodel has begun!</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJGIxi9YK-l1S_5wC2cM2jQKcmrDECWCMtS5w96Frld1iBw3T1bpCpYzJlYEY0pTwMcrt_xKGPzjwZ_2grnB3-NQxku7LuW4Mn440cT84D7lO_ti7yuCuItEQ2226iF7OG93_Ulwf2JAvU/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJGIxi9YK-l1S_5wC2cM2jQKcmrDECWCMtS5w96Frld1iBw3T1bpCpYzJlYEY0pTwMcrt_xKGPzjwZ_2grnB3-NQxku7LuW4Mn440cT84D7lO_ti7yuCuItEQ2226iF7OG93_Ulwf2JAvU/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">Yes, it was important enough to make a graphic for.</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">This will be done in a few stages, because I plan on being thorough and meticulous. All these weeks of no house projects has built up a reserve of creativity and ideas, and they are about to unfold. I'm going big with this one. (well—as big as you can go in a small crowded pantry).</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">Get ready!</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZacC7tIn3D42QdevPGKzPifT0k0OP5NupUrWBrlxisHS8yESOkB1cLrGDlbvQSulQxJQUZ2d_eWPXZvG7Y83xdGZlxwVyUi3REaEptsUAnbY4YekEKCHJagn9lXyEybYcAe4LQiNNQWcy/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZacC7tIn3D42QdevPGKzPifT0k0OP5NupUrWBrlxisHS8yESOkB1cLrGDlbvQSulQxJQUZ2d_eWPXZvG7Y83xdGZlxwVyUi3REaEptsUAnbY4YekEKCHJagn9lXyEybYcAe4LQiNNQWcy/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div></div>

Kitchen Update + Giveaway winners

Random title for a random post. I'm back from our big adventure to Costa Rica (yes, I'm still alive!) and it was everything I ever d...

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The Kitchen | DIY Remodel | New Open Shelving & Beadboard Backsplash

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoct8wp4onNOAWkEokrZRemj_R7VlNPLvpSxSy9Bt_exEJtvXHKnZ2ov2-fTTS2OcYogdOqWNluA6a3ozBli6kw8NZqZGSJmT8nBESeLnn_xbQVuUeo66qMK3kpuxXzxTibVTXpUrasOP9/s1600/IMG_2895.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoct8wp4onNOAWkEokrZRemj_R7VlNPLvpSxSy9Bt_exEJtvXHKnZ2ov2-fTTS2OcYogdOqWNluA6a3ozBli6kw8NZqZGSJmT8nBESeLnn_xbQVuUeo66qMK3kpuxXzxTibVTXpUrasOP9/s640/IMG_2895.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>This is the "Before" of our kitchen.<br />That is Mr. Darcy knocking over his bowl to request a refill...<br />I believe the previous owners had this kitchen done early-90's.  It is not terrible, but not very light and it is missing the utilitarian feel that I like kitchens to have.<br /><br />At some point in the near (1-2 years) future, we plan to add an addition onto the house that will triple the size of the kitchen and include a cozy hearth room.  For the meantime, we planned a DIY (budget-friendly!) remodel to freshen up the space.<br /><br />DIY Backsplash and Open Shelving Update :<br /><br />-Remove Upper Cabinets from the Left side ($0)<br />-Add Pine Wainscoting Back Splash ($60)<br />-Add Open Shelving ($100)<br /><br />Total Cost = $160.00<br /><br />Other Projects (we've already completed, and will be sharing this week...) :<br /><br />-Counter Tops<br />-Light Fixtures<br />-New Appliances <br />-Revive Wood Floor<br /><br />I'll be posting the rest of the "Progress" and "After" photos throughout the day and over the next couple of days... so, stay tuned!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Zxfs00Hpfvn1mklhLfR_OaC4eEMA6kYjViR5R0qWsRQzjJs0m0AzANn644VkTWW6PVMYTQ8XEVBUEd_G2qBvY2JBGTsfVRdF9Y-FKoQu1MpsBSVAicswEVu03v-r28BjwX5p9EOJ2OUq/s1600/IMG_2895.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Zxfs00Hpfvn1mklhLfR_OaC4eEMA6kYjViR5R0qWsRQzjJs0m0AzANn644VkTWW6PVMYTQ8XEVBUEd_G2qBvY2JBGTsfVRdF9Y-FKoQu1MpsBSVAicswEVu03v-r28BjwX5p9EOJ2OUq/s640/IMG_2895.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> Here is the Before of the Upper Cabinets.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCOUPw5CYOJq7WN64EC23ls7OYb_ylc23q50_hAyTUhsoYU779JI7kWn40eHyDrEPHVgio3aB23H7zxroZpq6IztIdSYq76yRjkn9xu0F4M1eGm7LGByfLMzfBT7f95TUf2C9XKkyPQU8/s1600/IMG_0868.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCOUPw5CYOJq7WN64EC23ls7OYb_ylc23q50_hAyTUhsoYU779JI7kWn40eHyDrEPHVgio3aB23H7zxroZpq6IztIdSYq76yRjkn9xu0F4M1eGm7LGByfLMzfBT7f95TUf2C9XKkyPQU8/s640/IMG_0868.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />And the After.  Much lighter and brighter, right? <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCOOS9WxG2p12ZLuAfbPjwnlERn0pQ88N98XTWgYSW_oJorxLk7Z3AoNri2koJCYrqxUI-QpbOaYRizGX3IQ_UnFs_fHtaKV4-9T2czqTrxPnXTa0OXXE-VcAK9eKIWOEnWx-b2YDf9Ht/s1600/IMG_9401.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCOOS9WxG2p12ZLuAfbPjwnlERn0pQ88N98XTWgYSW_oJorxLk7Z3AoNri2koJCYrqxUI-QpbOaYRizGX3IQ_UnFs_fHtaKV4-9T2czqTrxPnXTa0OXXE-VcAK9eKIWOEnWx-b2YDf9Ht/s640/IMG_9401.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our first step was to remove the upper cabinets on the left side of the kitchen and to remove the dark tile.  We decided to keep the upper cabinets on the right side so we would have some covered storage.  They are visually blocked by the refrigerator, so removing them wouldn't have really opened up the space anymore.  </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRewRfFTMJaNTbHxxml2uGByqDZp-Reuz6d9wLa_RmMX_Ulkty3feDx4CGwYhjWuoOzUw5xAEKKnrWHfGw1AboPOt5WlcCZahrthJm0EC0SeRlmAJQu5M7TJ4gl-zXQq6K_XQkdgtdl3yb/s1600/IMG_9409.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRewRfFTMJaNTbHxxml2uGByqDZp-Reuz6d9wLa_RmMX_Ulkty3feDx4CGwYhjWuoOzUw5xAEKKnrWHfGw1AboPOt5WlcCZahrthJm0EC0SeRlmAJQu5M7TJ4gl-zXQq6K_XQkdgtdl3yb/s640/IMG_9409.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Now all of the tile has been removed.  Ick.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdhJB3rJNVds889ZnWjKmNyNKl-GEb0_XILE_E5bRdrIBEiyHPTIU2vOlXY_ROEmQik_2ssLDj0gYjcbGgIYjzW1PtstuEREavx7iaBMzNCd1fTTOq6mdEJGhi_rvOn3g16xLG50nLQGs/s1600/IMG_9413.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdhJB3rJNVds889ZnWjKmNyNKl-GEb0_XILE_E5bRdrIBEiyHPTIU2vOlXY_ROEmQik_2ssLDj0gYjcbGgIYjzW1PtstuEREavx7iaBMzNCd1fTTOq6mdEJGhi_rvOn3g16xLG50nLQGs/s640/IMG_9413.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />Here, my Dad and Mike install the solid wood paneling that goes from the counter top to the ceiling. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvTAHS2OZdyN-uH5cVZ1Ag_c5hrTUWAhF6nXJkT45Mzvv0YEA06_yfeSb5d4b36IIa6QrZjLiFWQAzuyh-VJVcnhiGMYOPsHYu0qxkc34nwxoTa3ggNvRhTJzEx8iKtzfPLyhWoP2Tfefq/s1600/IMG_9415.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvTAHS2OZdyN-uH5cVZ1Ag_c5hrTUWAhF6nXJkT45Mzvv0YEA06_yfeSb5d4b36IIa6QrZjLiFWQAzuyh-VJVcnhiGMYOPsHYu0qxkc34nwxoTa3ggNvRhTJzEx8iKtzfPLyhWoP2Tfefq/s320/IMG_9415.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />They used construction adhesive on the back and finish nails to secure it. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEDFa2y1Uc96aw5XJdT54pzkxx0NPJiXSAaD5DOwZmngg2lY4NQf0Spl8aIGPcWX5pIzgNJuhdNeJmTV0QRuMjhYPYD7mw60LKS5FsoTZdD3ubm5TYvGnVfwDD_vwsO9sQJIRIsJ25H0A/s1600/IMG_9419.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEDFa2y1Uc96aw5XJdT54pzkxx0NPJiXSAaD5DOwZmngg2lY4NQf0Spl8aIGPcWX5pIzgNJuhdNeJmTV0QRuMjhYPYD7mw60LKS5FsoTZdD3ubm5TYvGnVfwDD_vwsO9sQJIRIsJ25H0A/s640/IMG_9419.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Voila.  There is a part of me that wanted to keep the rustic, raw knotty pine.  Someday I'll have cozy cabin and I'll do the entire thing in this paneling!<br /><br />Installing paneling was a great option because :<br /><br />#1 - We didn't have to repair the walls from the tile or cabinets.<br />#2 - It was only $60 worth of paneling.<br />#3 - The project to this point took my Dad and Mike about 4 hours.<br />#4 - It gave the entire room a "fresh and new" feel for $60 in 4 hours.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aBQ8ixS2zwGpy7GqGtUnabDoMzm2Z069LMA5d50Yl_JYfNdQ4EoYGNTrLzA9XUjcRm_mpv2JpQZht97XAEBcutE4SqxYjQNLQukXHAH8DmFlD5K6ihg2dqcjuUGG_-PNlhHjq6euJ2KL/s1600/IMG_9422.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aBQ8ixS2zwGpy7GqGtUnabDoMzm2Z069LMA5d50Yl_JYfNdQ4EoYGNTrLzA9XUjcRm_mpv2JpQZht97XAEBcutE4SqxYjQNLQukXHAH8DmFlD5K6ihg2dqcjuUGG_-PNlhHjq6euJ2KL/s320/IMG_9422.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Before priming and painting, I filled all of the holes with wood filler... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Z2DdIZunseAT_oQ4AuwY4pPiwUtHKE-Chqx45zVHlRZXbAoi9OVKWs3GMOPfHeVhfViP0Jtr3PPYyZDru_1Qh1G1FuwW94ti4Ewf7XNjKMV3koIOIun-P0LzDz17_OXERIaGqHHKuTIj/s1600/IMG_9423.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Z2DdIZunseAT_oQ4AuwY4pPiwUtHKE-Chqx45zVHlRZXbAoi9OVKWs3GMOPfHeVhfViP0Jtr3PPYyZDru_1Qh1G1FuwW94ti4Ewf7XNjKMV3koIOIun-P0LzDz17_OXERIaGqHHKuTIj/s640/IMG_9423.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Then sanded.  Doesn't my manicure look lovely?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lcMuOKLUXYvg6uZFLX1aCSizOGA5Y7mXcXMpYiUJM65ofqVBQ44onMn4GAClYwbvKKMrRkXW2ewmWa7pHrFGE3aSfiP-94NVci0s8uYCrhO4MO44zTrr_ET6oBSfnKQgsoX7L1_18tkX/s1600/IMG_2945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lcMuOKLUXYvg6uZFLX1aCSizOGA5Y7mXcXMpYiUJM65ofqVBQ44onMn4GAClYwbvKKMrRkXW2ewmWa7pHrFGE3aSfiP-94NVci0s8uYCrhO4MO44zTrr_ET6oBSfnKQgsoX7L1_18tkX/s640/IMG_2945.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I painted it to match our trim : Benjamin Moore Navajo White in Satin<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCOUPw5CYOJq7WN64EC23ls7OYb_ylc23q50_hAyTUhsoYU779JI7kWn40eHyDrEPHVgio3aB23H7zxroZpq6IztIdSYq76yRjkn9xu0F4M1eGm7LGByfLMzfBT7f95TUf2C9XKkyPQU8/s1600/IMG_0868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCOUPw5CYOJq7WN64EC23ls7OYb_ylc23q50_hAyTUhsoYU779JI7kWn40eHyDrEPHVgio3aB23H7zxroZpq6IztIdSYq76yRjkn9xu0F4M1eGm7LGByfLMzfBT7f95TUf2C9XKkyPQU8/s640/IMG_0868.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Here is the "After" photo of the paneling with the shelves installed.  I didn't take photos of the shelving installation... because... well, they went up so fast, I painted them and then they were finished before I knew it!  Sorry.<br /><br />We got the birds beak brackets from Home Depot for about $10 each.  The shelves themselves are 1x12x8 pine boards with 1 x 2 1/2 trim pieces on the perimeter.  Mike secured 3 of 4 of the brackets into studs so the shelves are very sturdy.<br /><br />I still haven't decided on an official display of my things on the shelves, but I'm working on it - probably an entire post in itself.  <br /><br />As you can see, we also replaced the light fixtures - source links here : http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/09/house-tour-work-in-progress-progressing.html<br /><br />Next up, the counter tops! <br /><br /><i>UPDATE : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/11/diy-kitchen-remodel-new-verona-range.html">Here</a> is the link to the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/11/diy-kitchen-remodel-new-verona-range.html">completed kitchen</a>! </i><br /><br />

The Kitchen | DIY Remodel | New Open Shelving & Beadboard Backsplash

This is the "Before" of our kitchen. That is Mr. Darcy knocking over his bowl to request a refill... I believe the previous owners...

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