We all know it, yet we all forget!  Maybe its denial, maybe its wishful thinking or just selective memory.  Whatever it is, consider this a reminder to anyone thinking about updating a room, revamping an outdoor space, touching up paint, or any other house hold project.  There is a great chance, it will take on a life of its own, take longer or cost more; quite probably it will take longer AND cost more.   So am I recommending you don’t do it?  Absolutely and positively, of course NOT!  Maintaining and updating your home, most likely your most valuable investment, is essential for financial and emotional well being.  Just plan on the unexpected and remember all spaces are connected – 

First know that our backyard is a…little rustic.  Its an un-manicured, natural hill country oasis for the deer, squirrels and other wild furry animals.  My husband and I prefer it like that but to host my daughter’s wedding reception?  So began our little backyard project.      

We decided to widen the narrow stairs for the safety of our wedding guest and of course to look better.   Luckily one of our good friends is a fantastic home builder and offered to “help” (OK, we helped him :-)).  http://hancockhomesllc.com/

 

Stairs Before

First he recommended we add hand rails (why didn’t we think of that?).

Wow, so much better!!

Stairs after

Now look at that ugly railing! 

Railing BEFORE

Course we wouldn’t want to add new railing on an old worn deck so that needs to go too. 

 Railing AFTER

 It begins with just a little project, but in the end it is so worth it! 

For us,

Deck AFTER (photo by John Winters / Ron Parks Photography) 

For our Guest, 

Dancing(photo by John Winters / Ron Parks Photography) 

And most importantly, for the happy couples first dance!

The happy couple(photo by John Winters / Ron Parks Photography) 

Anyone else want to share one of their “little project” experiences?