#home and remodeling show 2023

[newdawnconstructionla]

Enhance Your Abode: Unleash the Potential with Home Remodeling by New Dawn Construction Los Angeles

Say goodbye to outdated spaces and hello to a stylish and functional abode that reflects your unique taste and personality. Our team of experts is here to help you unlock your home's true potential. From stunning kitchen makeovers to luxurious bathroom renovations, we've got your home remodeling covered. Experience the joy of walking into a renovated space that brings you unparalleled comfort and happiness. At New Dawn Construction, we offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Your dream home is just a remodel away! Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Let's create something extraordinary together! Contact us today for a consultation and let us bring your vision to life.

New Dawn Construction Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA (818) 273-5120 Newdawnconstructionla.com

[copperbadge]

As I think most people do, I look at the year's end as a time for taking stock and evaluating life. I'm sure my ancestors, with the same rampant ADHD that I have, who regularly spent winters cooped up with their entire social network, were rethinking their life choices round about this time every year. I'm sure their loved ones deserve an honorable mention for allowing them to live long enough to eventually produce me. But the point is, I get the idea of using the quiet time between harvest and sowing to really contemplate life.

I don't make New Year's resolutions anymore, though. I was never that into them but the last one I made was to see more live shows and lectures, really get out in the world and experience in-person culture more. That was December of 2019. Seems like tempting fate to ever make another resolution after my last one was legally thwarted by a global pandemic.

These days I prefer to pick themes for years, guided by happenstance. A few years ago when I knew I could afford some home remodeling, I called it the Year of Upgrade. 2022 was the year of Completing Things. (Ironically "completing" the first shivadh novel led to a BUNCH OF STUFF MORE TO COMPLETE.) 2023 didn't really have a theme but I was dealing with a lot so the breathing room was kind of welcome.

This year it's been oddly less abstract but also more symbolic. I've been seeing a lot of mushroom imagery towards the end of the year and a TON of fire imagery -- perhaps more "heat/light" than fire, lots of candle/cookfire/forge stuff, but basically open flames as they involve creative transformation. I joked it was a year of flaming fungi to a friend and she said, "well, fire can't kill them in a way that matters either" which struck me.

I think 2024 may involve being very durable in the process of changing. Worrying, but then again are we not always on some level worried about my fragile mortal husk? I definitely am. I took some powerful (legal, medically supervised) relaxants the other day and I think I sprained a muscle in my calf from moving my leg after just...not being tense for an hour. I hurt myself by relaxing.

I know eyelids aren't supposed to twitch like this, I'm taking potassium about it, it's fine.

I did just get a clean bill of health, though. Blood tests show I'm super normal except in ways we already knew I was weird (personality, skin ph, etc).

I like to think of it as spiritual durability, anyway. Physically I'm the manifestation of a hapless gesture, but emotionally I'm a mushroom on fire, yelling encouraging threats as I speed past. Where am I going? Mind your business. Why am I screaming encouraging threats? I'm a mushroom on fire. Why, is it not working?

Anyway, happy new year. Mind how you go, my fellow flaming porcini. I'm off to cook a pot roast, tell some fortunes, and berate some ghosts.

[icestar-74]

Shizaya Week 2023

Day 8 Free Day Part 1/7

Shizuo: "Hey! It's Shizuo and Fleabag here! We've recently heard that someone wanted a tour of our home."

Izaya: "Hey Protozan, don't smoke indoors. Yes, we decided that this week dedicated to us would be perfect time to show it all off."

Izaya: "I would like to start by showcasing my new rug. It's actually a coffee coaster. We purchased it from a local coffee shop and thought it was the PERFECT addition!"

Shizuo: "Right here we have our cat Foofoo. It doesn't do much..."

Izaya: "Stop smoking Shizu-chan! Don't make me come over there."

Izaya: "This is one of my favorite chairs. Believe it or not it's made out of a dish towel and the bottom of a soda bottle! If you look closely, you can see the ripples at the bottom."

Shizuo: "This couch is from a dish towel and sponges! I think there is foam board too. It's the perfect size for us. We'd like to buy a legit one but the sizing isn't ever right and they tend to be pricey."

Izaya: "These books here were bought as a set. Not sure why we have them still. We know Shizu-chan can't read!"

Shizuo: "This might be the perfect time to show my stop sign! Get over here!"

Izaya: "Ope gotta run! Next we'll show you the kitchen."

Shizuo: "Get back here you dick head!"

A note from me!

The flooring here is made up of samples from the home improvement stores. I just got a bunch and cut them into strips. The wallpaper is made of scrap book paper. Everything is stuck on with doublesided tape. It's easy to remove for remodeling if needed.

If anyone ever has questions about my house or the things in it, please ask. My inbox is always open :D

Next I'll show the kitchen. Tiny food for them is my favorite thing!

[mariacallous]

For most of his life, Cory Infinger has lived down a hill and along a bend in the Little Wekiva River, a gentle stream meandering northwest of Orlando. During Hurricane Ian, in September 2022, the stream swelled, inundating the homes of his family and his neighbors and also the street where they live, making it impassable.

Overnight Ian had moved slowly and violently over the state’s interior, dropping historic amounts of rain, after coming ashore in southwest Florida as a category 4 hurricane, its high winds and storm surge flattening coastal communities there.

For Infinger the deluge forced a hasty morning evacuation with his wife and youngest two of their three children. It would displace the family for months as their home underwent massive repairs. More than a year later the ordeal has left the family rattled, especially his 16- and 8-year-old children, said Infinger, who grew up fishing and trapping turtles along the Little Wekiva and now enjoys doing the same with his kids. (A 22-year-old son no longer lives at home.)

“You could tell they were sad when we came back to get the last few things,” he recalled of his kids as he described the family’s temporary stay in a rental house, and then the move back to their newly remodeled home. “It took them a while to get used to, this is our new house. Everything had changed.”

In the last seven years Florida has weathered five major hurricanes. Michael, which made landfall in 2018 in the Panhandle, was the first category 5 hurricane to strike the continental United States since Andrew in 1992. Ian, in 2022, was the costliest hurricane in state history and third-costliest on record nationwide, after Katrina in 2005 and Harvey in 2017. Recent major Florida hurricanes also include Irma in 2017, Nicole in 2022, and Idalia in 2023.

If the disasters sharpened Floridians’ resolve, in the immediate aftermath, to build back stronger and better, another crisis may be causing some to rethink where they live and the rising risk as the global climate warms.

After Ian, Infinger’s taxes and homeowners insurance, which he pays together into a bank escrow account as part of his regular mortgage payment, jumped by $450 a month. That amount could be considered moderate in a state where annual home insurance rates in the five and six figures have not been unheard of in recent years, and many homeowners have received letters from their insurers informing them that their existing policies will not be renewed.

Some homeowners have received multiple such letters from multiple insurers, leaving them scrambling from one policy to the next, as lenders require mortgage holders to carry insurance. Others whose homes are paid off are going without insurance altogether, to spare the expense.

“We deal with it,” said Infinger, who, with his wife, is considering moving away from the Little Wekiva in the coming years. For now, he said, “there’s nothing really we can do about it.”

Across the country, homeowners are grappling with skyrocketing insurance rates and dropped policies, with those in states such as California, Florida, and Louisiana hit hardest. Growing evidence suggests the soaring costs only hint at the widespread unpriced risk facing homeowners as the warming climate leads to rising seas and more damaging hurricanes and wildfires.

As many as 6.8 million properties nationwide have been affected by insurance problems, but that number represents a fraction of the 39 million homes and businesses vulnerable to flooding, hurricanes, and wildfires whose risk has not been priced into their policies, according to a study by the First Street Foundation, a nonprofit researching climate risk. Together these 39 million properties constitute what the study characterizes as an “insurance bubble,” defined by properties likely overvalued because of underpriced or subsidized insurance.

Other research suggests the changing climate has not been priced into the real estate market in a way that reflects the risk. A separate study published last year in Nature Climate Change, a peer-reviewed journal, estimates that residential properties vulnerable to flooding are overvalued by $121 billion to $237 billion, in part because of the subsidized National Flood Insurance Program.

The study found that the most overvalued properties are concentrated in coastal counties where there are no flood risk disclosure laws and where there is less personal concern about climate change. Much of the overvaluation is driven by properties situated outside of the 100-year flood zones designed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Low-income households especially are in danger of losing home equity, potentially leading to wider wealth gaps. In Florida, properties are overvalued by more than $50 billion, according to the study.

The unpriced risk is important for many reasons. Municipalities that rely on property tax revenue may be vulnerable to potential shortfalls, the study says. The National Climate Assessment pointed out last year that the overvaluation of coastal properties makes it difficult to move people out of harm’s way, because of the limited amount of compensation available through flood insurance and federal flood disaster assistance programs.

“Florida is one of the riskiest places from a climate impact standpoint that you can live in,” said Rob Moore, director of the flooding solutions team at the Natural Resources Defense Council. “One only needs to look through a few years of front pages to see how many major hurricanes have struck this state, and that definitely had an impact on how both private insurers and insurers in the public realm are looking at risk and pricing it in the state of Florida.”

“We’re so far behind in regard to pricing in the climate. That’s why we’re seeing these big [insurance] spikes in places like Florida and California and Louisiana,” said Jeremy Porter, head of climate implications research at the First Street Foundation. “It’s the first mechanism to start to price climate into the housing market.”

[meow-tv]

May 10, 2023

Cherry's getting ready for the fashion show. 💄

Relocated, remodelled and turned into a two-level home!

[ottawarealtor]

Happy Tuesday Everyone ! If you know me then you know how much I love Bungalows but this Bungalow is special as it comes with a 2nd floor loft , 5 bedrooms, 2 ensuite, Pond view with no rear neighbors and thousands in upgrades including this high end kitchen spanning over 2600 SQFT of living space....a perfect home for multi generational families with everything on the main floor. 424 CAVESSON ST, Ottawa K2V 0A8 Listed For Sale at $1,298,800 MLS#1341417 Lot size: 46 x 104 Feet Taxes: $7042/2023 Built in 2013 by Monarch Homes 5 Beds, 4 Full Baths, 2nd floor Loft , Move in Ready This exquisite Monarch built Bungalow+Loft is situated in the prestigious neighbourhood of Blackstone in Stittsville & features 5 beds, 4 full baths (2 ensuits on the main floor) and a den/office space on the 2nd floor. Perfect for multi-generational families, boasting 2600+ sq.ft. of living space, no rear neighbours, backing on to a pond with southern exposure for an abundance of natural light. Be amazed by the stylish foyer with large porcelain tiles leading into this breathtaking home! Meticulously remodelled & truly an open concept design with 15 ft. cathedral ceiling, a great room perfect for entertaining & a custom kitchen that could make the cover of a magazine. A chef’s dream, offering a mixture of porcelain/quartz on the counters/backsplash, ton of cabinetry, a breakfast bar with high-end SS appliances. The basement makes fantastic recreational space with kitchen material ready to be installed. Enjoy time with loved ones under the gazebo taking in all that nature has to offer. Book your Showing today with Sorin Vaduva Real Estate #ottawa #blackstone #bungalow #justlisted #monarch #soldbysorin #wow #stunninghome #norearneighbors #pondview #forsale #realtor #realestate #stittsvillehomes #stittsvillerealestate #ottawrealtor #ottawahomesforsale #KellerWilliamsIntegrity

[listedsimply]

How much value does a basement bathroom add?

As with most things in real estate, the decision to add a basement bathroom is a popular one, but many homeowners are unsure if it's worth the investment. But especially in a competitive market, adding a basement bathroom can dramatically raise the value and appeal of your house to potential buyers. 

Factors Affecting Value Increase:

Several factors influence the value boost a basement bathroom brings. Here are some key considerations:

Location:  Location, location, location!  Homes in areas with high demand for extra bathrooms or in neighborhoods with a growing population will likely see a higher return on investment (ROI) from a basement bathroom addition.

Overall Square Footage:  Adding a bathroom generally increases your home's usable square footage, a significant selling point. The impact is even greater if your existing bathroom count is lower than the average for your neighborhood.

Quality of the Remodel:  A high-quality, well-designed basement bathroom with premium finishes will undoubtedly add more value than a basic, utilitarian one.  Remember, curb appeal applies inside too!

Market Conditions:  A hot seller's market typically translates to a higher ROI for any home improvement project, including a basement bathroom. When homes are flying off the shelves, buyers are more likely to overlook potential downsides and prioritize the added convenience.

Quantifying the Value Increase:

While a definitive answer is elusive, several studies attempt to quantify the value increase from a basement bathroom. Here's a breakdown:

National Association of Realtors (NAR) Remodeling Impact Report:  According to NAR's 2023 report, a mid-range bathroom addition recoups, on average, 72.2% of its cost nationally.

Cost vs. Value Reports:  Reports like Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report provide region-specific data. These reports can offer valuable insights into the ROI for your specific location.

Beyond the Numbers: The Intangible Benefits

While increased value is a compelling motivator, there are other benefits to consider:

Enhanced Functionality:  A basement bathroom adds a much-needed level of convenience, especially for multi-level homes. It eliminates the need for guests or family members to trek upstairs, particularly valuable for those with mobility issues.

Increased Enjoyment:  A basement bathroom can transform your basement into a more versatile and livable space. It can create a dedicated entertainment area, a comfortable guest room, or even a home gym – all with the added convenience of an en-suite bathroom.

Future-Proofing:  A basement bathroom caters to a broader range of potential buyers, including families with young children or those anticipating future needs for aging-in-place modifications.

Considering the Costs:

Before diving in, it's crucial to factor in the costs associated with a basement bathroom addition. Here are some key areas to consider:

Permits and Inspections:  Obtaining necessary permits and ensuring the project adheres to building codes are essential steps.

Plumbing and Electrical Work:  Running new plumbing and electrical lines to the basement can be a significant cost factor.

Materials and Labor:  The quality of materials and the expertise of your contractor will significantly impact the project's final cost.

Unexpected Issues:  Be prepared for potential unforeseen issues like encountering existing plumbing lines or needing additional foundation work.

Flat Fee MLS Listing: A Cost-Effective Way to Sell

When your stunning basement bathroom is finished, it's��time to show prospective buyers around your house. As an economical means of reaching a large audience, take into consideration looking into flat fee MLS listing services. With these services, you can list your property for a fraction of the typical agent commission on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a useful tool used by real estate agents. With careful planning and the right market, adding a basement bathroom can be a wise investment. The extra functionality, ease of use, and appeal it provides to potential customers cannot be disputed, even though the precise value increase may differ.

Weigh the potential ROI against the costs involved, and don't forget to factor in the intangible benefits of a more comfortable and versatile living space. By making informed decisions and exploring cost-saving options like flat fee MLS listings, you can maximize the value of your investment and potentially reap significant rewards when it's time to sell.

[dankusner]

Arlington art museum reinvents self

New space blends immersive experiences with traditional

With 42,000 square feet of galleries, the new Arlington Museum of Art has seven times the space it previously had.

Its earlier home, a former Sears outlet in downtown Arlington, was aging.

The new digs are at the city’s former convention center, which now also houses the Esports Stadium Arlington at 1200 Ballpark Way.

“What people know of the Arlington Museum of Art — basically, you can just throw that away because this is a whole new museum,” said Chris Hightower, the museum’s president and CEO.

The new quarters mean the museum is part of the town’s entertainment district, not far from Six Flags Over Texas, the major sports stadiums and what will be the National Medal of Honor Museum.

The new facility features one gallery for community shows and emerging artists, plus a traditional gallery.

That’s where the museum has opened the traveling show, “Pompeii: The Immortal City,” which features more than 100 artifacts, re-creations and digital projections about the Roman city destroyed — and preserved — by a volcanic eruption in 79 A.D.

There is also a sizable third space dedicated solely to immersive artworks.

Such a gallery is rare for a North Texas art museum.

With all of that new space and the chance to draw crowds of out-of-towners, the museum is clearly reshaping its public presence and its artistic direction.

The immersive gallery opened with “One Point Five Degrees,” a collection of room-sized digital environments (the title comes from an intergovernmental report on climate change) by two artists.

Adam Fung, a Fort Worth-based artist and Texas Christian University professor, typically works in paint.

But he’s often addressed the environment, and for this work, “Fathom,” he used his 2023 artist residency in the Arctic to create a drone video installation.

In contrast to the wintry landscape in “Fathom,” “Floralia,” by Canadian artist Sabrina Ratté, presents a lush, layered experience via a 13-channel, hi-definition animated video environment and sound design.

“We now have three exhibition spaces that people can visit at any time. So it’s a much larger, totally new experience,” Hightower said.

Remodeling part of the old convention center and moving in was Phase 1 of the Arlington museum’s upgrade, costing $2.9 million.

In Phase 2, the museum will get a new facade and a redesigned central corridor, which it shares with Esports Stadium.

“Pompeii: The Immortal City” and “One Point Five Degrees,” March 30-June 23, at the Arlington Museum of Art , 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington

[sqinsights]

Curtains and Window Blinds Market: More Than Just Covering Windows

Welcome, dear readers, to the fascinating world of curtains and window blinds, where the battle between light and darkness takes center stage! Today, we’ll take a humorous stroll through the Global Curtains and Window Blinds Market, exploring its growth, trends, and the real MVPs — those blinds and shades.

The Showdown: 

Blinds and Shades vs. the World! In the grand arena of window coverings, blinds and shades emerge as the rockstars, claiming a whopping 39.9% share of the global revenue in 2022. Move over curtains and drapes; it’s time for blinds to shine! Thanks to innovative designs and acoustic properties that would make your grandma’s curtains blush, blinds are stealing the spotlight. Energy conservation and reduced carbon emissions? Well, aren’t blinds the unsung heroes of sustainability!

Residential Renaissance: 

Where Curtains and Drapes Steal the Show Picture this — a surge in housing developments, a wave of home remodeling projects, and rapid urbanization. What’s the result? The curtains and drapes segment stealing the show with an anticipated CAGR of 8.1% from 2023 to 2030. Move aside, Hollywood — the real drama is happening in our living rooms!

Residential vs. Commercial: 

A Tale of Two Applications In 2022, the residential application sector took the lead, contributing over 55% of the global revenue. It seems our obsession with cozy homes is paying off! But wait, the commercial category is gearing up for a blockbuster growth with an expected CAGR of 8.0% from 2023 to 2030. The demand for sliding and insulated profiles is on the rise — because who doesn’t want a sleek office space?

Global Expedition: 

North America’s Construction Wonderland In the realm of global dominance, North America emerged as the ruler, accounting for 39.6% of the total revenue in 2022. The United States, with its surge in construction spending on public residential buildings, is basically the construction wonderland of the world. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is gearing up for a growth spurt, with an anticipated CAGR of 10.0% — watch out, world!

Behind the Scenes: 

Drivers and Restraints The rising popularity of smart homes is driving the curtains and window blinds market, especially in North America and Europe. With over 60 million smart homes expected in the U.S. by 2022, it seems our curtains might need a tech upgrade too. But hold on, there’s a villain in this story — substitutes! Curtains and drapes are stepping up, challenging the traditional window blinds with their diverse styles and designs. Can blinds withstand the fashionable storm?

For More Information: https://www.skyquestt.com/report/curtains-and-window-blinds-market

Meet the Rockstars: 

Curtain and Window Blinds Brands In the world of curtains and window blinds, innovation is the key. Let’s give a round of applause to the real MVPs — Advanced Window Blinds, Hunter Douglas Inc, Budget Blinds, Hillarys, and more. May your blinds be smart, your drapes be stylish, and your shades be energy-efficient!

Curtain Call: 

The Future of Window Coverings As the curtains draw on our journey through the Global Curtains and Window Blinds Market, it’s clear that the battle between curtains, blinds, and shades is more than just a window-dressing drama. It’s a story of innovation, sustainability, and the eternal quest for the perfect blend of style and functionality.

So, dear readers, the next time you draw your curtains or adjust your blinds, remember — you’re not just covering a window; you’re participating in a global spectacle of design, trends, and a touch of humor in the world of window coverings! Cheers to the unsung heroes of the home — curtains and window blinds!

About Us-

SkyQuest Technology Group is a Global Market Intelligence, Innovation Management & Commercialization organization that connects innovation to new markets, networks & collaborators for achieving Sustainable Development Goals.

Contact Us-

SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

1 Apache Way,

Westford,

Massachusetts 01886

USA (+1) 617–230–0741

Email- info@skyquestt.com

Website: https://www.skyquestt.com

[market-spy]

Curtains and Window Blinds Market: More Than Just Covering Windows

Welcome, dear readers, to the fascinating world of curtains and window blinds, where the battle between light and darkness takes center stage! Today, we’ll take a humorous stroll through the Global Curtains and Window Blinds Market, exploring its growth, trends, and the real MVPs — those blinds and shades.

The Showdown: 

Blinds and Shades vs. the World! In the grand arena of window coverings, blinds and shades emerge as the rockstars, claiming a whopping 39.9% share of the global revenue in 2022. Move over curtains and drapes; it’s time for blinds to shine! Thanks to innovative designs and acoustic properties that would make your grandma’s curtains blush, blinds are stealing the spotlight. Energy conservation and reduced carbon emissions? Well, aren’t blinds the unsung heroes of sustainability!

Residential Renaissance: 

Where Curtains and Drapes Steal the Show Picture this — a surge in housing developments, a wave of home remodeling projects, and rapid urbanization. What’s the result? The curtains and drapes segment stealing the show with an anticipated CAGR of 8.1% from 2023 to 2030. Move aside, Hollywood — the real drama is happening in our living rooms!

Residential vs. Commercial: 

A Tale of Two Applications In 2022, the residential application sector took the lead, contributing over 55% of the global revenue. It seems our obsession with cozy homes is paying off! But wait, the commercial category is gearing up for a blockbuster growth with an expected CAGR of 8.0% from 2023 to 2030. The demand for sliding and insulated profiles is on the rise — because who doesn’t want a sleek office space?

Global Expedition: 

North America’s Construction Wonderland In the realm of global dominance, North America emerged as the ruler, accounting for 39.6% of the total revenue in 2022. The United States, with its surge in construction spending on public residential buildings, is basically the construction wonderland of the world. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is gearing up for a growth spurt, with an anticipated CAGR of 10.0% — watch out, world!

Behind the Scenes: 

Drivers and Restraints The rising popularity of smart homes is driving the curtains and window blinds market, especially in North America and Europe. With over 60 million smart homes expected in the U.S. by 2022, it seems our curtains might need a tech upgrade too. But hold on, there’s a villain in this story — substitutes! Curtains and drapes are stepping up, challenging the traditional window blinds with their diverse styles and designs. Can blinds withstand the fashionable storm?

For More Information: https://www.skyquestt.com/report/curtains-and-window-blinds-market

Meet the Rockstars: 

Curtain and Window Blinds Brands In the world of curtains and window blinds, innovation is the key. Let’s give a round of applause to the real MVPs — Advanced Window Blinds, Hunter Douglas Inc, Budget Blinds, Hillarys, and more. May your blinds be smart, your drapes be stylish, and your shades be energy-efficient!

Curtain Call: 

The Future of Window Coverings As the curtains draw on our journey through the Global Curtains and Window Blinds Market, it’s clear that the battle between curtains, blinds, and shades is more than just a window-dressing drama. It’s a story of innovation, sustainability, and the eternal quest for the perfect blend of style and functionality.

So, dear readers, the next time you draw your curtains or adjust your blinds, remember — you’re not just covering a window; you’re participating in a global spectacle of design, trends, and a touch of humor in the world of window coverings! Cheers to the unsung heroes of the home — curtains and window blinds!

About Us-

SkyQuest Technology Group is a Global Market Intelligence, Innovation Management & Commercialization organization that connects innovation to new markets, networks & collaborators for achieving Sustainable Development Goals.

Contact Us-

SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

1 Apache Way,

Westford,

Massachusetts 01886

USA (+1) 617–230–0741

Email- info@skyquestt.com

Website: https://www.skyquestt.com

[girlyandunruly]

2023: Most important thing is family

First year I’ve felt a shift from my “forever young” lifestyle to realizing we are getting old. Our friends no longer join every big event. Both our grandmothers passed away earlier this year. We’ve also had some health problems we’ve had to manage. There’s more time spent at home with continued house maintenance and remodeling projects (and a little of relaxation when possible). I guess since we spend more time at home, we keep improving it. But overall, I’m like “what’s going on? Are we boring? Oh, we are just getting older”, blah.

The biggest focus this year has been family. Between birthdays, funerals, national holidays, and newborn family member, we traveled 8 times in the year to spend time with family. With all the life changes, I cherish the time I spend with our family.

Workwise, this year I hired three new people for my team, and it was the first time in 5 years working at Barr Engineering that I felt the workload was finally manageable. All those years of stress finally paid off; I have a solid team, way more money (ha!) and Barr did an article about me so getting some industry recognition.

Traveling to a new place or visiting family is my favorite thing to do. Here’s this year’s list, 9 different states and 3 new countries, not one full month spent in Denver.

JANUARY:

Jackson Hole, WY snowboarding with friends (Highlight: seeing a moose on the ski run!!)

FEBRUARY:

Taos, NM snowboarding trip with friends for my 38th birthday (Highlight: live music at a bar)

MARCH:

Tucson, AZ for work NAEM conference (Highlight: cucumber vodka lemonades)

APRIL:

Houston, TX for abuelita’s celebration of life

MAY:

Birmingham, MI for Luka’s birthday

JUNE:

Vienna, Austria trip with my mom (Highlights: ALL THE ART!! Absolute best and champagne breaks)

JULY:

Collbran, CO camping for 4th of July

Lake George, NY for Betty Brown’s celebration of life

AUGUST:

Nagawicka Lake, WI for grandpa Bob’s 95th birthday

Serbia and Montenegro for our 5th year wedding anniversary (Highlights: Basketball player Boban Marjanovic being at the same restaurant and all the cats in Montenegro)

SEPTEMBER:

Houston, TX for business trip (Highlight: Got to see SanJuanita and parents for a night)

OCTOBER:

Minneapolis, MN for work training

NOVEMBER:

Birmingham, MI for sisbro’s birthday and went to see Metallica (Highlight: Detroit Institute of Art with so many dutch paintings)

Tampa, FL for Thanksgiving with the Brown family (Highlights: Salvador Dali, wild dolphins and saving Sofi)

DECEMBER:

Houston, TX for Christmas with the family (Highlight: Go Karts with the siblings!)

The times I wasn’t traveling but stayed in Denver were memorable: 1- Goat yoga 2- Getting a limo to see SOFI TUKKER at Red Rocks 3- Bridgerton themed brunch with Elizabeth 4- Indoor mini golf with friends where I won :D 5- Denver Nuggets won the NBA championship and my obsession with Jokic started 6- Seeing The Book of Mormon 7- Makeup class with Kate at Sephora, and finally learning better makeup techniques (I know what to do with primer and bronzer) 8- Obsessed with Women’s World Cup games 9- Vivas Streets where Denver closed Broadway and Welton and had it open for bikers/walkers and no cars. So much fun. 10- Free outdoor movie The Goonies at Curtis Park 11- Tried something new: Hip Hop class with Holly 12- Seeing Jerry Seinfeld 13- Discovered new favorite restaurants: Jovanina’s Broken Italian and Bao Brewhouse

Relax time at home:

Creating art of any form is my favorite pastime. And this year I’ve become obsessed with creating miniatures. A few inspired by my recent travels: Mozart's home after Austria and Porto Winery after Portugal.

Favorite books I read this year: o The Blueprint for Revolution by Srdja Popovic o All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

Bigger focus on skin care. I have a routine of drinking tea collagen every morning, take vitamins and use serum. The occasional face mask.

Favorite TV shows/Movies in 2023:

Shrinking

Beef

Transatlantic

Ted Lasso

Air

The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar

BARBIE!!

With all the art obsession this year I came up with our Halloween costume: Vincent Van Gogh and The Starry Night

Baby news!

New nephew Noah born in February 2023 and new baby announcement from Justin and Vanessa again on the same year! (another boy!)

Owen and Pearl had their baby Soren on November 7, 2023.

My 2024 wishes are for better health and continued happiness <3

[alyjojo]

Gift Ideas For Your Aries - December 🛵 2023:

What they want: King of Wands & Knight of Swords

What they need: Page of Pentacles & 4 Wands

The thought behind it: The Hierophant & 3 Wands

Main Energy: Knight of Wands

Gift ideas for Aries:

Their energy is cute to me, they just want to be taken seriously. The general idea of them in their group is that they are the goofball, the fun & unreliable one, the one that makes mistakes or has, the child in some sense, inexperienced and/or immature, maybe they’re the baby of their family or friend group, or they feel like the least experienced one anyway. I mean that’s Aries, they’re the babies of the zodiac. They either desire a level-up, or they want to be acknowledged for having done so, they either have already grown from a Knight of Wands to a King, or they want to & give them their flowers 💐

1. If romantic, they want to move to a deeper & more established commitment. Moving in together, a proposal, the Page here looks to be literally holding a ring 💍, could be a mother’s ring, a class ring, a meaningful keyring/chain even, I’m hearing ring specifically. Put a ring on it!

2. A literal home, a house, I’m sure that’s a stretch, or more realistically, something for the home. A plaque est. the year they moved in, got married, a framed something that shows them in high esteem, like a special frame made to show off a hard-earned degree, something that feels like a tangible reward for their time & efforts.

3. Knight of Wands can show they’d like to bypass a heavy gift giving season altogether and combine forces to take out a loan or save money, do some home improvement projects (or offer your services if you’re handy). It’s like they don’t want run of the mill, they want a remodeled kitchen. If they’re more casual to you (like an aunt or a coworker), and you��re on a budget, sophisticated/monogrammed salt & pepper shakers or anything home related, especially improvements, are good too.

[realtybymonica]

Sought-After 2 Story 4BD 2.1BA Home For Sale in Houston

https://www.realtybymonica.com/2023/11/16/sought-after-2-story-4bd-2-1ba-home-for-sale-in-houston/

Situated in the sought-after Bay Glen community, this home presents a blend of functionality and style. Recent upgrades include a new roof, AC, furnace, and water heater, all replaced within the last 5 years, providing peace of mind. The home, repiped with PEX in 2018, showcases modern kitchen and bathroom remodels. Beyond the walls, this community offers a range of amenities—pool, parks, tennis, and pickleball courts—promising a vibrant lifestyle. Don’t let this gem slip away; schedule your showing now for a firsthand experience.

[readerviews]

"Next Level Nonprofit" by Dr. Chris Lambert

Take your organization to the next level. #books #bookreview #reading #readerviewsp

Next Level Nonprofit Dr. Chris LambertIndependently Published (2023)ISBN 979-8887596068Reviewed by Jill Rey for Reader Views (10/2023) Life Remodeled is Dr. Chris Lambert’s nonprofit organization founded in 2010 with the desire to help the Detroit community.  Life Remodeled began by offering projects similar to the hit TV show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.  First building houses for…

[structuraremodeling]

THE TOP 5 BATHROOM REMODELING IDEAS FOR 2023

Are you planning for a bathroom remodel in 2023? Look for the most up-to-date, on-point, and upscale bathroom remodeling ideas.  Reaching out to the top design teams in Los Angeles, browsing the magazines, spending time on the popular home remodel and design websites, and watching the home remodeling shows are fun ways to collect creative and innovative bathroom remodeling ideas.

Before you start working with your contractor, it is essential to understand what design ideas are “must-haves” for you and how they will impact your budget.  Some of the design choices we share with you add great contemporary style and functionality and will not blow up your budget. Choosing innovative technology and green products may cost more upfront but save you money in the long run.

By 2023 we continue to see even more diversity in materials.  Reclaimed wood, stone, and natural features are even more popular this year.  You can create that outdoor spa feeling by bringing more nature and light into the bathroom. Some designers are creating a Japanese contemporary hybrid design focusing on nature and simplicity.

The contemporary industrial metal design esthetic focuses on updated bathroom technology while offering a high-end design and a simplified uncluttered space.

Have you thought of using a “wet room” approach?   In a wet room, you do not have to compartmentalize the wet areas. The tub, sink, and shower can all be within the same space, so you don’t have to build a separate shower area.  This style of the bathroom has a very open feel and is very easy to keep clean.

Another trend for 2023 is intricate tile designs.  They can be nostalgic and bring back the past’s color palette like baby blue and pink or all white. White is always in style. Using a variety of textures and tile designs can level up the wow factor.  If you get bored, then change your accessories and have an entirely new look.

HERE ARE OUR TOP 2023-BATHROOM REMODELING IDEAS.

Oversized tiles- Oversized tiles have overtaken the tiny mosaic tile frenzy this season. The selection of colors, textures, and designs is phenomenal. There are tile selections that even look like wood.  You can also go with a monochromatic look, creating a very edgy and modern feel for your bathroom remodel—the bonus of using larger tiles and less grout to keep clean.

Smart toilets– When the Covid Pandemic hit, there was a run on toilet paper. When people couldn’t find toilet paper, they started buying up all the bidets in stock.  This winter, the forecast is the same. Stores are already limiting the amount of toilet paper you can purchase.As part of your bathroom remodeling ideas, skip the bidet and go right to the Smart Toilet. Have all the benefits in one unit. Besides the  bidet feature, your smart toilets can have a self-closing lid, touch-free flushing, heated seat, and be self-cleaning. Now that is a smart idea!!!!

Dramatic stone countertops- most people, when undergoing a bathroom remodel, choose quartz for their countertops. And there are several great reasons why. Quartz is very durable, scratchproof, and creates an elegant finish .If you are looking for high drama and a unique finish, there are several other options. For high-end bathrooms, you can’t go wrong with Carrera Marble.  Just stunning, If you don’t mind a bit more maintenance, then Onyx is another attractive choice.  Elegant and timeless. Soapstone is also a popular choice that requires regular maintenance.

Modern Sinks and Taps– We have been seeing them in restaurants for years. More and more, they are showing up in home bathroom remodeling ideas. These basins, with their unique shapes, can be made from a variety of materials. Created from Metals, Ceramics, Stone, or Glass, many look like works of art.   The taps are part of the sink design.  You can choose wall-mounted faucets or traditional ones. Now there are automatic faucets for home use as well.

Floating vanities- To go along with the contemporary design of your new Floating vanities are fixtures that appear to “float” because they are mounted to the wall and do not sit on the floor at all. This modern design will make any bathroom feel more open and lighter.   Floating vanities come in various lengths and materials, including wood finishes or a modern gloss design. The design provides maximum counter space in either single or double sink options.  If you are considering a floating vanity, remember to find out the weight limit and be sure to get it professionally installed.

As you continue to explore your options, spend some time investigating the bathroom fixture showrooms for inspiration. Also, speak to neighbors and local realtors about what’s hot in bathroom remodeling ideas and what’s selling in your area. A bathroom renovation is also an investment in your home.  When it’s time to sell, your bathroom renovation will be a key selling feature and make your home highly desirable. Buyers expect an updated bathroom and  you will appreciate the return on investment.

Next, you need to identify the professional design team and general contractor to make your vision a reality. Structura was nominated as the top bathroom remodeling and design firm in your Los Angeles neighborhood for over sixteen years.

Their clients say that the Structura team of contractors are true artisans and deliver on every detail.   They deliver on what they promise and are so easy to communicate with. They finished on time and budget. They can order everything you need to complete your bathroom renovation through their many industry relationships while passing their wholesales discounts along to you.   Structura saves you time and money.