We are closer to having everything settled, and getting ready to dive in to restoration.
I waffle between hope/excitement and feeling completely overwhelmed. I have tackled 5 house restorations (1 pre civil war, 2 victorian era, 1 1920's, and 1 1960's) prior to this, but there is just so much more at a stake.
First off, there are MANY people excited that we are taking this on, and longing for what it once was.
Memories of gorgeous gardens, sunny days poolside.
Cozy holidays among delightfully cluttered decor.
A family member recently shared
"One of my fondest memories is sitting at the kitchen table, with Grandmother; gazing out the large kitchen picture window, searching for signs of movement in the North House-signaling the cousins were awake from their naps".
Our challenges include
Being sensitive to family member's memories when making changes. We feel like stewards of this property, and want all family members to feel comfortable spending time here.
Being respectful of the house and property when making changes. (I've seen enough horrible butcher job "remodels" of older homes to know we need to think LONG and HARD before making any decisions)
These are complicated by
Time Constraints.
We have a big family of young children; demanding jobs, busy social and vacation schedules. Additionally, we have a historic farm that places high demands on our time.
(think 10+ hours of gardening and groundskeeping during spring, summer, fall; and multiple restoration projects underway at all times).
Financial Constraints.
MONEY PIT. 'Nuff said.
I waffle between hope/excitement and feeling completely overwhelmed. I have tackled 5 house restorations (1 pre civil war, 2 victorian era, 1 1920's, and 1 1960's) prior to this, but there is just so much more at a stake.
First off, there are MANY people excited that we are taking this on, and longing for what it once was.
Memories of gorgeous gardens, sunny days poolside.
Cozy holidays among delightfully cluttered decor.
A family member recently shared
"One of my fondest memories is sitting at the kitchen table, with Grandmother; gazing out the large kitchen picture window, searching for signs of movement in the North House-signaling the cousins were awake from their naps".
Our challenges include
Being sensitive to family member's memories when making changes. We feel like stewards of this property, and want all family members to feel comfortable spending time here.
Being respectful of the house and property when making changes. (I've seen enough horrible butcher job "remodels" of older homes to know we need to think LONG and HARD before making any decisions)
These are complicated by
Time Constraints.
We have a big family of young children; demanding jobs, busy social and vacation schedules. Additionally, we have a historic farm that places high demands on our time.
(think 10+ hours of gardening and groundskeeping during spring, summer, fall; and multiple restoration projects underway at all times).
Financial Constraints.
MONEY PIT. 'Nuff said.
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