Poor old ugly thing floating alone in the wall. We gave it a t.v. and gramaphone for company along with some pretties on top. There is just no disguising it. Just wait for the transformation. It's a definite "wow".

Up next a peek at the new plans.

The current kitchen is very talented. So much so, I'm considering having it audition for next season's "America's Got Talent".

The cabinets have great rhythm and love to show off. "Bonk, bonk, bonk" every time I close a door. There are a couple of doors vying for lead singer. They're yellowing so they stand out. This is sometimes accompanied by "tick, tick, tick, tick" of the stove's gas burner ignitor. Turn on the down draft all conversation stops (it's loud) and the pots and pans start dancing. The prep sink disposal chimes in, usually off cue. It's really a timing issue. All someone has to do is brush the switch and it thinks it's time to sing. Talk about being pitchy!

The group will be called Rhythm & Blues...no make that Rhythm & Yellow. Of course, if you or anyone you know, would like to own this talented group just give me a call. All reasonable offers considered. I need to pay for the remodel somehow.

When we bought this house almost 9 years ago we knew it was the house for us...great views (Mt. Hood out the living room window and a green belt for the back yard), great floor plan (perfect for entertaining) and room for all when the clan is home. The kitchen and family room were liveable but lacked good functionality and quality finishes. The original owners had run out of funds and made do.

Take one look at the foundation and you'll know why. It's an engineering marvel. We're on a steep slope but even then it's overkill. It's comforting to know we won't have to worry when the big quake hits. Just think, we'll have prime view property when the Pacific NW breaks off and becomes the "new Hawaii". I can see the description now, "beautiful home for sale, fantastic beach and mountain views on 1/3 acre above the Pacific Ocean". Wonder what the sale price would be? O.K. back to reality.

We had every intention of remodeling the kitchen and family room within a short time after moving in but the best laid plans of mice, men, and interior designer/homeowner often take more time than expected. We adapted. The bum-a-rumba with the frig door at the prep sink is great for the gluts and dishwasher door side slide works the legs and hips. Why is it that I pay for a gym membership?

There's a perception that all designers' homes are something out of Architectural Digest. Wrong! A few are but most aren't. When we do get an opportunity to design and build/remodel our own homes we are excited, estatic, nervous and, as I've discovered, our own worst clients! Really!

I've been in the business professionally for 20 years. I've designed numerous homes, offices, salons, and a church. I've won design awards. I've worked with individuals, couples, CEO's, and a few Board of Directors. I can honestly say none of them has caused me more stress, dilema or indecision over a project than the evil trio of me, myself, when I decided to remodel my own home.

Come along and share the remodeling journey, up close and personal, from a designer's own perspective.