#home improvements adelaide

[carportsadelaideposts]

Top 10 Home Improvements That Boost Property Value

When it comes to enhancing your home's market value, strategic improvements can make a significant difference. Whether you’re preparing to sell or just want to increase your property’s worth for future gains, certain upgrades offer high returns on investment. Here are the top 10 home improvements in Adelaide that can boost your property value and appeal to potential buyers:

Kitchen Remodel

The kitchen is often the heart of the home and a focal point for potential buyers. A modern, updated kitchen can significantly increase your property’s value. Consider upgrading to stainless steel appliances, installing granite or quartz countertops, and updating cabinetry with fresh paint or new hardware. Even minor tweaks, such as adding a stylish backsplash or updating lighting fixtures, can have a substantial impact.

Bathroom Renovation

Bathrooms are another area where a remodel can offer impressive returns. Replacing old fixtures, adding new tile, and improving lighting can make a bathroom feel more luxurious. Consider installing a walk-in shower or a soaking tub if space allows. Modern vanities with double sinks and energy-efficient toilets are also appealing to buyers.

Energy-Efficient Windows

Energy-efficient windows not only improve your home's comfort but also reduce energy bills. Double or triple-pane windows with low-E coatings can be a major selling point. They enhance insulation, minimise noise, and offer UV protection, which helps in maintaining the interior of the home. The investment in energy-efficient windows often pays off in the form of increased property value.

Exterior Improvements

Curb appeal is crucial in attracting potential buyers. Enhancing your home’s exterior can include painting or cleaning the siding, adding a new front door, or updating the landscaping. Consider adding outdoor lighting, a well-maintained lawn, and attractive flower beds to create a welcoming environment. A well-kept exterior sets the tone for the rest of the property.

Basement or Attic Conversion

Converting an unfinished basement or attic into a usable living space can significantly increase your home's value. Whether you choose to create an additional bedroom, a home office, or a recreational area, the extra square footage can be highly desirable. Ensure that the conversion is done with proper permits and meets building codes to maximise its value.

Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular among buyers. Integrating smart thermostats, security systems, and lighting controls can make your home more appealing. These features not only provide convenience but also improve energy efficiency. A well-installed smart home system can set your property apart from others on the market.

Flooring Upgrades

Updating old or worn-out flooring can give your home a fresh, modern look. Hardwood floors are highly sought after for their durability and timeless appeal. If hardwood isn’t in your budget, consider high-quality laminate or luxury vinyl planks that mimic the look of wood. Carpeting in bedrooms can also be updated with neutral, high-quality options to enhance comfort.

Roof Replacement

A new roof can be a substantial investment in home improvements in Adelaide but is often worth it. Potential buyers are likely to be concerned about the condition of the roof, as a new roof offers peace of mind regarding future maintenance and repairs. Investing in a high-quality roofing material with a good warranty can improve your home’s value and attract more buyers.

Energy-Efficient Insulation

Improving your home’s insulation can lead to lower energy bills and increased comfort. Proper insulation in the attic, walls, and floors helps maintain a consistent temperature and reduces energy consumption. Energy-efficient insulation is especially appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and can be a selling point.

Professional Landscaping

A beautifully landscaped yard can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and overall value. Invest in professional landscaping services to create a cohesive and attractive outdoor space. Features such as a well-maintained lawn, trimmed bushes, and seasonal flowers can make your property more inviting. Adding features like a patio or outdoor kitchen can also increase your home's appeal.

Final Words

Investing in these home improvements can offer excellent returns by enhancing your property’s value and appeal. Whether you focus on high-impact areas like the kitchen and bathroom or make strategic upgrades to energy efficiency and curb appeal, each improvement contributes to a more attractive and valuable property.

By making thoughtful home improvements in Adelaide upgrades, you’ll not only enjoy the benefits of a more comfortable and modern home but also position yourself for a successful sale when the time comes.

[cainconstruction]

Home Improvement Adelaide

Home improvement projects in Adelaide can transform your living space into the dream home you’ve always wanted. Fortunately, Cain Construction Group is renowned for its commitment to quality, reliability, and expert craftsmanship. With over 20 years of experience, our team has established itself as a trusted provider of carpentry and building services. We specialise in bespoke home improvements that exceed client expectations and add value to existing properties.

[kleinig-constructions]

Find the Right Construction Company in Victor Harbor and Fleurieu Peninsula

When it comes to building or renovating, choosing the right construction partner makes all the difference. As a quality construction company, Kleinig Constructions understands that each project represents a significant investment and a dream coming to life. Here’s a closer look at what we offer, how we work, and what sets us apart in the world of construction. 

Why Choose Kleinig Constructions?

As a locally trusted quality construction company in Fleurieu Peninsula, we take pride in providing expert services tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. Our commitment is to deliver high-quality projects with integrity, transparency, and a focus on customer satisfaction. Here are a few reasons why clients choose us for their construction needs:

Experienced Team: We bring experience to each project, ensuring quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Personalized Service: Every client receives our full attention and dedication, from planning to project completion.

Quality You Can Rely On: We stand by our work, ensuring each project meets our high standards for safety, functionality, and beauty.

[roofrepairsadelaide]

Carports Adelaide

Traditional Verandahs & Carports specializes in designing and building durable and stylish carports in Adelaide. With a focus on enhancing functionality and aesthetic appeal, they provide custom carport solutions that complement your home’s style while protecting your vehicles from harsh weather. Using high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, their carports are built to last, adding value and convenience to your property. Whether you prefer modern or traditional designs, their team ensures a seamless installation process tailored to your needs. Choose Traditional Verandahs & Carports for expertly crafted Carports Adelaide that blend practicality and elegance, enhancing your outdoor spaces effortlessly.

[houseoforbs]

Best Ways to Choose An Inside Designer in Adelaide

Introduction:

The best choice shall ensure more than just making your house a home that says a lot about you as an individual but also exactly how you live. The process is starkly similar, whether in Adelaide or Sydney, while seeking a designer with whom our aesthetic wallets seem practical and fast enough without any of the ominous included PM. It gets overwhelming, with so many options, and it's important to know what elements shape this fundamental decision. In this article, I will cover just a few steps you will have to take to choose an Interior designer and set up your project for success with seamless work from start to completion.

Clearly Define Your Style and Needs

Tip 1 Before you even begin to find an interior designer, first, it is necessary that you have in mind what kind of style for home decor works best for you, quite fresh and clear. Does modern minimalism work for you, or do you prefer a more classic and detailed approach? Spend some time going through design magazines, check websites, and also social media like Instagram and Pinterest. If you know your style, it will make the process of finding a designer that specializes in this type of design much simpler. Also, list what you need—is it a full house remake, including any add-ons? Is it either a single room in your home remodeling or an update of an area? If you are specific to the scope of your project, that will be of great importance in shortlisting your options.

Do Your Homework on the Best Designers

Your style's on lock, and you have an idea of what you want-start taking note of any interior designers based in a location nearest to Australia. You can either start with a referral from your circle and ask someone, your friend, family, or colleague who has worked with designers in case of a head start. Scroll through online portfolios and go through ID reviews of any Interior Design Firm that you might stumble upon-be it on a Houzz, Google, or any social site. Step 1: Compile a List Designers Whose Work Resonates with You and Understands Your Project Type Make note of their design sensibilities, clients testimonials as well as the scope and typology of past projects).

Check Experience and Qualifications

Interior design is a professional field that combines creativity and technological capability. So, be sure to view the portfolio and professional experience of all designers you consider. Find designers with accreditations by reputable industry bodies. For example, the DIA includes certified interior designers who closely follow best practices and ethics in their industry. Secondly-how long has the designer been in business-what type of projects have they worked on and do they know your city? Adelaide or the Sydney area, for example. A person from that area will be able to better understand the local design, climate and suppliers.

Check out Their Portfolio and Process

One good way to know a designer's style, creativity, and flexibility with respect to his or her work is to look at their portfolio. Ask yourself whether they work in lots of different styles or their portfolio is limited by one aesthetic. Whenever possible, go take a look at their spaces themselves so you can see actual samples of what they have done. Also explain to them about their designing procedure. If they have any new project, how do they go into it? How do they go about seeking to find out what you want and mess up a bit of your style? If a designer is willing to get to know your vision and incorporate you into the creative process, they are more likely than not going to leave you with an end product that is what those expectations warranted.

Budget and Communication

The most talked-about part in any interior design is the budget. Let the designer know what your budget is and make sure to let him feel that he is comfortable working within that financial framework. A great designer will give you the best bang for your buck as he looks at creative solutions in terms of sales per square foot. In a similar way, the ideal use of space requires that ft and budget must be commensurate with a desired end product. Another underlying important aspect of the designer is his communication aspect-in terms of how he relates with you: whether they answer your questions and give feedback. Let's have a designer who can communicate well and understand you too, and what you want to say. 

Conclusion

All this is because there are so many interior designers in Adelaide and Sydney, which calls for an in-depth process of finding one. It is prudent that you start off by defining your style and do your research on designers so you may ask questions, one leading to the other, such as those concerning the budget and their communication, so you may find a good match for your design ideas. The best designer will not only transform your room or area but also the entire process of designing and accomplishing for your site into a happy and stress-free one. Whether you are beginning a small remodel or an entire top-to-bottom renovation, choosing the appropriate designer will make the difference between really showcasing your values at home or failing to let people know who you are.

[goldingprojects1]

Transform Your Space with Home Renovation in Adelaide - Golding Projects

[batsplat]

It didn't turn out quite as we'd planned because I got sick, really sick. I had cold sweats and a terrible fever, to the point where I couldn't walk and could hardly talk or even hear because my ears were blocked up. I was starting to improve when we made the short drive over the Austrian border for me to catch a flight from Vienna to Doha, Qatar, for the second race of the season. I had to say goodbye to Adri as she was going home to Adelaide. When we arrived in Vienna we found out our flight had been delayed for 24 hours, so we ended up driving back to Adri's family's place until the next day. When we did eventually get a flight, for some bizarre reasons the woman at the check-in put my tickets together with some guy who was travelling in business class who I didn't know. I didn't worry too much about it then but when I went to transfer to our connecting flight in Dubai they wouldn't let me board the plane until the guy turned up, even though my name was on the list. I waited for everyone to board and of course the guy didn't show. He must have taken an earlier flight but I had no way of knowing for sure. I was furious! I had to go ll the way out of the terminal and book another flight but there wasn't an available seat until the next day. I didn't have a credit card back then so that made things a lot more difficult too. I spent 24 hours in Dubai airport and arrived in Doha 48 hours later than planned, with only an hour to spare before the first free practice was due to start.

^Casey Stoner in FP1

I spoke to Lucio when I landed and he said, 'If your bags don't arrive within five minutes just leave them.' I arrived at the track ten minutes before the session started, got changed, got on the bike and set the fastest time of the session. I was four-tenths of a second quicker than my closest challenger, who was Valentino Rossi. I ran second fastest in the second session that afternoon, fastest in the third free practice the next morning and then qualified on pole position. I was the second youngest rider ever to do that after Grand Prix legend Freddie Spencer.

^Casey Stoner before the race

I suppose it was a bit too much to ask for that momentum to continue through the race. Since 2008 we have ridden at night in Qatar because the organisers wanted to introduce a night race into the calendar. Qatar was always a good race for us because of the hot conditions, the tyres would overheat causing the bike to move around a lot more, and that suited me. I enjoyed racing in the heat but because of my lack of sleep and the hectic flight my sickness started to get worse again. I wasn't able to recuperate so by race day I was already worn out. I managed to hold off Rossi and lead for the opening nine laps of the race but I was tired so wasn't able to be as aggressive on the bike as I needed to be and I gradually dropped out of the podium positions and finished fifth, which was still a good result considering the lead-up, I wanted better though.

^Casey Stoner and Valentino Rossi fighting in the race, shaking hands afterwards

from Casey Stoner's 'Pushing the Limits' about Qatar 2006, his second premier class race and first pole position

[simslegacy5083]

Today's (4/7/2025) Episode: Fertility Things

After visiting the pregnant Gretchen, Elyse dug deep into all the strategies she’d learned online to help boost the couple’s chances of having a baby.

“I already enjoy exercise, and it's supposed to be great for fertility” she told her spouse. To that end they began spending more time in their little home gym, working hard to improve their overall health and reduce stress.

Skye was disappointed when Elyse stopped eating xir homecooked meals, but tried to be understanding after she explained it was all in the service of starting a family “these green smoothies are full of vitamins and antioxidants, all the things I need for my body to be in prime baby making shape!”

Candor had told Elyse that magic and medicine didn’t mix, but that didn’t stop her from trying a little hocus pocus to increase their odds of conceiving.

They poured through the many magical tomes that generations of mages had collected at the homestead. “Magicking up rain showers may clear toxins from the air” she told xem, just before her eyes lit up when she found a potion that would instantly put all her needs into the green.

“A well cared for sim is a happy sim!” she exclaimed as Skye helped her cook up a batch of plentiful needs potions in the magic room. “I’ll be in peak health with all my needs topped off, which is the perfect condition for a little one to get cozy and warm up in here.”

Next on the agenda was a stop at the spa “I read that their fertility massages are supposed to give you a huge boost, sims were even saying they increase your chances of having multiples!” Elyse grinned.

“Don’t we already have an increased chance of multiples because your mom gave birth to twins?” Skye asked.

“We do,” she agreed “but every little bit will help. Anyway, wouldn’t it be nice to get a two for one deal with our first pregnancy?”

Skye wasn’t so keen on that. I want to get pregnant someday too, and if we already have multiple babies it might never happen… but knowing how important it was to Elyse xe kept quiet, crossing xir fingers that any fertility boost they received just got them a single happy, healthy little one sooner.

Elyse’s final “fertility treatment” involved an invite from Adelaide to join her and some of their other mage friends in Whispering Glen for the Full Moon Revelry.

“Adelaide and her husband are hoping to get pregnant too” she told Skye “Of course I didn’t mention that we’ve been trying, but she was telling me all about the magical properties of the full moon and how moonbathing is supposed to be fantastic for boosting your chances of conceiving.”

The group began their evening with a little magic practice. “Our powers are heightened by the full moon” Peppino told them “it’s the perfect time to work on learning some new spells or engage in a friendly duel”

Once they’d had enough of besting one another they settled down to do what Elyse had come there for.

 “Spread your arms wide, breathe deep, and focus on letting the light deep inside you” Adalaide told the others “I’m hoping to get a big fertility boost myself, but the moons power can be harnessed for all sorts of things.”

Warming up by the bonfire afterward Elyse found a spot near Betty “How are things with you? I hope Greyson is feeling better. I noticed he was limping the last time we were there.”

“My big baby is fine” Betty laughed “though honestly, he’s so busy with university and his job at the deli that I don’t see him much these days. You guys ready to live it up at my birthday party?”

Elyse nodded, sticking her hands closer to the fire to warm them “Skye has been talking about the feast xe’s preparing for you for weeks.”

Across the way Skye pulled out xir camera and grabbed a quick snapshot of the two gorgeous girls bonding in the flickering firelight. She looks radiant xe thought, xir heart beating a little faster in xir chest; xir brain not bothering to clarify which girl it was so taken with.

The group ended the evening with a little entertainment as Betty brought her guitar up to the microphone. “I just learned to play your favorite country song!” the music lover enthused, gesturing at Skye to join her “you have to sing it with me!”

Skye could never resist xir friends’ zest for life, obligingly stepping up to sing to the crowd of friends gathered round them:

  🎵I'm al-, I'm al-, I'm alright, It's a beautiful day, not a cloud in sight, So I guess I'm doing alright 🎵

That night before bed Elyse caught her spouse before bed, whispering suggestively “I don’t know about you, but that full moon energy has me ready to make a baby…” Skye took her by the hand, wishing with all xir might for their dream of a child to become a reality. Please, please let it work this time…

View The Full Story of My Not So Berry Challenge Here

[janvi54236]

Transform Your Home with Exterior Painting

Exterior painting is one of the most effective ways to enhance the appearance and value of your home. A fresh coat of paint not only improves curb appeal but also protects your property from harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and moisture damage.

When done professionally, exterior painting can last for years, providing a durable and attractive finish. Choosing the right color and high-quality paint is essential for achieving a long-lasting and visually appealing result.

For homeowners looking for reliable services, Painting Services Adelaide is a trusted name. They specialize in exterior painting, offering expert advice on color selection and using premium materials for the best results. With their skilled team and attention to detail, they ensure a flawless finish that enhances your property's beauty.

Trust Painting Services Adelaide to bring your vision to life and protect your home with professional and high-quality exterior painting solutions.

[puckpocketed]

BRAVE @ ADRENALINE

4 (30 SOG) - 1 (33 SOG)

END game

A goal from the wrong Kubara (Tyler) seals the match, but some sloppy coverage and a scramble net front breaks the gates open on Alex Tetreault.

HEADASS CASTER CURSED TETREAULT’S SHUT OUT. wailing and gnashing my teeth <3

The Brave take advantage of a scattered Adelaide Adrenalin and win the weekend series. An excellent recovery from yesterday’s very shaky victory!!

Last year, the Brave were runner up for the Goodall Cup; with an arguably improved roster, can they claw back a place at the top and make it again? They go on the road for one more game next weekend before returning to Canberra for a home game. I’ll be on site that evening, hoping to take photos <3

[cainconstruction]

Outdoor Home Improvements Adelaide

Our team carefully selects materials and designs that enhance functionality while blending seamlessly with existing structures. We build strong relationships with our clients by consistently delivering outstanding results on every project. Outdoor Home Improvements Adelaide are our specialty — if you dream of an outdoor space that becomes a standout feature of your property, contact us today to discuss your ideas and get started. Find us here

[kleinig-constructions]

Project ONGOING

[roofrepairsadelaide]

Heritage Home Improvements Adelaide

Adelaide is renowned for its rich architectural heritage, boasting a beautiful array of classic homes that reflect the city’s history. From charming cottages to grand sandstone villas, these properties are treasured by many homeowners for their character and timeless appeal. However, maintaining and restoring these heritage homes requires care, expertise, and attention to detail to preserve their historic charm while meeting modern living standards. This guide will walk you through key aspects of heritage home improvements in Adelaide, helping you restore and revitalise your classic property.

Understanding Heritage Homes in Adelaide

Heritage homes in Adelaide often have a distinct architectural style, such as Victorian, Edwardian, Federation, or Bungalow designs. Many of these homes are listed under heritage protection, meaning that renovations must adhere to specific guidelines to preserve their historical significance. Before starting any restoration work, it’s essential to check whether your property falls under these heritage listings and consult with the local council for approval.

Key Considerations for Heritage Home Improvements

Respecting the Original Architecture One of the golden rules when restoring a heritage home is to respect its original design and architecture. This includes retaining key features such as ornate ceilings, timber detailing, leadlight windows, and stone facades. It’s essential to source materials that match the original style, as even small deviations can affect the authenticity of the restoration.

Upgrading with Modern Conveniences While maintaining historical features is important, incorporating modern conveniences is equally essential for comfortable living. Smart updates, such as energy-efficient lighting, updated plumbing, and improved insulation, can make a world of difference. The key is to seamlessly blend these modern upgrades into the existing structure without compromising the home’s historic aesthetic.

Roof Restoration and Repair Heritage homes often feature unique roofing materials, such as terracotta tiles or slate. Over time, these materials may wear down, leading to leaks or structural damage. When restoring your heritage roof, it’s important to use the correct materials and techniques to match the original design. Consider working with specialists who have experience in restoring heritage roofs to ensure quality workmanship.

Verandahs and Carports Many heritage homes in Adelaide feature verandahs and carports, which add to their classic charm. These outdoor structures may require repair or replacement, but it’s crucial to preserve their original design. Traditional verandah and carport specialists in Adelaide can help restore or recreate these features, keeping the architectural integrity intact while enhancing your outdoor space.

Maintaining Heritage Windows and Doors Windows and doors in heritage homes are often crafted with intricate details that are hard to replicate. Instead of replacing these features, consider restoring them. Timber windows and doors can often be repaired and repainted, maintaining their historical significance while ensuring they function properly.

Working with Professionals

Restoring a heritage home in Adelaide is not a typical DIY project. It requires skilled craftsmanship and expertise in working with historical properties. Partnering with professionals who specialize in heritage restorations can ensure that your home is restored with care, respecting its original character while meeting today’s standards.

Conclusion

Restoring a heritage home in Adelaide is a rewarding experience that allows you to preserve a piece of history while creating a comfortable living space for the future. By carefully planning your renovations, respecting the home’s architectural integrity, and working with experienced professionals, you can enhance the beauty and functionality of your classic property. With the right approach, your heritage home can continue to stand as a timeless gem in Adelaide’s rich architectural landscape.

Whether it’s restoring your roof, upgrading your verandah, or modernizing your interiors, Heritage home improvements Adelaide require a delicate balance of tradition and innovation. Embrace the charm of your classic property while making it a space that meets your modern-day needs!

[houseoforbs]

Major Hubs Homes- Sustainable Interior Design with Eco-Friendly choices in Australia

In Australia, with a growing trend of sustainability, people are moving to more environmentally friendly alternatives from their lifestyle choices and now into housing interior design. The Earth is not the only entity that benefits from sustainable interior design; it greatly helps in improving indoor air quality, health, and overall well-being. Below are a few eco-friendly designs that can be put into use when developing your home in any big cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane.

Select Sustainable Materials

Sustainable interior design really begins with the materials you select to use. Think of much greener alternatives such as natural, sustainable, and recycled materials that have less impact on ecology. Another is bamboo flooring, which is also deemed more sustainable than hardwood as it grows fast and regenerates easily. Of course, reclaimed wood for furniture and fixtures saves waste but gives the space a touch of rustic personality. Choose organic cotton, hemp, and linen, which do not use pesticide or chemical growth additives in farming. 

Go Energy Efficient

Sustainability In Interior Design Energy efficiency is a major part of a sustainable interior design concept. If one purchases Energy Star-rated appliances and lighting, they will contribute to making your house greener, reducing your carbon footprint along with lessening what it costs for air conditioning. LED bulbs are meant to consume lesser power compared to the traditional bulbs; hence, they tend to have a longer life too, which also means usage of this material is not only in the vast but can be quite beneficial for roomältre. In that line, consider making use of smart thermostats that allow you to regulate heating and cooling with much efficiency. Even according to your daily routine, these appliances can save energy that is being spent day in and day out when you are not home.

Bring in Indoor Plants

A natural and beautifying form of cleaning the local air while accentuating a little green within your residential space is by planting indoor plants. Snake plant, spider plant and peace lily are some of the toxin filtering plants you might want to find for a city home or dorm room. Indoor tropical plants enhance the overall feel of your interior and are a dead-set way to bring at least a knife-edge piece of outdoors inside, especially needed in high-rise buildings-that is, our city life.

Buy Only Local and Ethical Products

In the same way there is a growing trend towards supporting small businesses, boutique-type, or specialist products from artisans and makers, an important element to sustainable interiors. Sourcing furniture, decor, and everything else locally for your home interiors; you are at the same time reducing the carbon footprints all over again in transportation. They also add a story to your home-locally made or otherwise-which creates more character than one can imagine. Down under, Australian craftsmen are increasingly putting the environment to the forefront and producing sustainably-made products made out of locally-sourced materials whenever possible. Consume locally produced, ethical products at home; it gives life to the community around you-a good household lifestyle becomes an economic model that has the audacity to shape society as Judas.

Conclusion

Latest postSustainable Interior Design StyleRequirements and Alternatives for the Home sustainable interior design is about practical choices that do good to your home but also keep an eye on. Siloko Valve Based Filter19 Dec By implementing green materials, energy efficiency, indoor plants and local & ethical sourcing you can create a stylish home… as well as help the environment too. With sustainability finding its place in our daily lives, interior design will keep homes in big cities harmoniously singing to mother earth. This is a nine-point discussion of eco-friendly options for renovating homes, building new ones, and constructing your right atmosphere into a living space.

[adelaiderhosynweasley]

That ‘Veela’ Shit

The summer had been probably one of the absolute best ones Adelaide had experienced in her life. After that first sleepover with Gulliver, it was like some kind of barrier had been broken down when it came to her parents and they had allowed the pair to hang out more. Most of the time, it was Gully who was coming over, where Louis and Caerwyn could keep a close eye on the pair to make sure there were no shenanigans going on that they wanted to avoid. Gulliver though, proved to be just as behind in his development as Addie and the more the Weasleys got to know him, the more comfortable they became with his presence. Well, Caerwyn and the kids had at least, but Louis was still wary, still overprotective. Sleeping bags were always stuck down to the floor in the living room, musicals were watched, instruments were shared, and sand was tracked into the house stuck in bathing suits. Beside the salted caramel jar in the cupboard, a similarily shaped one of hot fudge had become a kind of staple, Gully’s favorite snack the same way cheetos were Addie’s. It had gotten to the point where Adelaide was asking nearly every day if he could come over or if she could possibly go to his. That had only been allowed the once, Addie spending the night at the Stonefyres home among a multitude of other children who had all piled onto the living room floor in piles of blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags. Gully’s older sister had baked them all snacks, they had gone swimming down in the lake, had a large bonfire where the boy’s many assorted uncles had gladly helped the Ravenclaw learn some new tricks on her violin that had really improved her ability to play it. Adelaide had been sad to leave the next day, even if she was happy to see her own family again. All in all, the pair of young Ravenclaws had ended up having maybe two or three sleepovers a week by the time the summer was over. By the fifth one, Louis had given in and opted for allowing their fireplace to connect directly to the Stonefyres’ over the Floo Network, something he didn’t do lightly, but it was better than constantly taking the Knight Bus to retrieve the annoying little redhead. Obviously, the kids still had to ask permission, but it made it easier for them to see eachother. Addie had written to Sunny to see if she wanted to come over for a night, but the blonde had already been at Willow’s grandmother’s by that point, but they would see eachother when school started back up again. Their reunion had been a bit... awkward. The pair hadn’t spent the entire summer apart after first or second year, but the gap that had been there at the end of the school year had remained. Addie still loved Sunny dearly, still considered her one of her best friends, but there was no pretending that their interests had changed as the blonde embraced puberty and Addie remained behind.

Getting on the train on the first had been a tearful event, but not for the usual reason of Addie being anxious. Rather, she was excited for school to start back up, for the club to get going on their next play and maybe, if she had the balls enough, to perhaps try out for the Quidditch team . She had debated it the year before but decided against it, figuring she wouldn’t be good enough. After playing a pick up game with Gully’s sisters and cousins though, she was feeling more confidant about her abilities and thought, maybe, just maybe... Her Dad had been on the team in school and Quidditch was something Adelaide enjoyed even if she didn’t talk about it nearly as much as she did chickens or music. The tears that had really been shed that day had come from her two younger cousins, Briar and Thistle, who were off for their very first year. They would be twelve soon enough, late fall babies, but being slightly older didn’t exactly fully prepare them for being away from their parents and sisters for the first time ever. Addie had understood, fully, what they were going through and had kept them close throughout the journey, introducing them to other friends, watching them calm even further as Zander joined them in their compartment. Another familiar face. It had been a tight squeeze with all of them actually. Addie, the twins, Sunny, Willow, Zander, Gully, and then M’n’M who had tripped over her robes and ended up in Addie’s lap when she’d finally located them. There had been a lot of joking, pranks, snacks, and games to cheer the two younger girls up and by the time they were arriving, Briar and Thistle were looking a good deal more relaxed. Enough to be smiling, if nervous, during their sorting where they, thankfully, had been placed in the same house. Addie knew it would be a similar situation next year, when her own siblings would both be eleven. Owena would be absolutely fine, but Rhydian was... well, he was already begging to continue to be homeschooled.

The first few weeks of school passed in a blur. Adelaide had not been anticipating their work getting even harder than it had been the previous year when they’d added more classes to their schedules, but now that they had hit fourth year... Well, the professors were already talking about their O.W.Ls that they wouldn’t even be taking until the end of their fifth year! Even so, getting back into the groove of things, of seeing all of her friends, and being in the club room again after being gone for the summer was just as fun as Addie had been anticipating. Professor Mendes had greeted them all with a gentle smile when they had traipsed into the room for their first meeting of the year, though the poor man had been giggled at and informed, point blank by Gully that ‘Auntie Freya got lipstick on you again, Uncle Max.” The professor had turned pink and found a mirror to try and get the bright cherry red lip print off of his cheek while the club had settled into trying to decide what they were going to be doing for a play this winter. They would have three and a halfish months to prepare the cast, the scenery, the music, the props and costumes. There was a great smattering of agreement about doing the pirate show they all liked a good deal, but there was also a suggestion of putting on one of the classic Beedle stories. Before the brunette knew it, they were nearly a month into the school year and the postings for Quidditch try-outs had gone up. She had brought her broomstick along, a hand-me-down from her dad that was still in good condition, and signed up before she could psych herself out of it. Thus, it was on the pitch that Adelaide found herself on a slightly foggy Saturday morning, nerves and coffee coursing through her system due to a lack of sleep caused by anxiety. Her eyes shifted to the stands were she could see the familiar shock of Gulliver’s red hair. Sunny waved to her, a bright grin on her face while Zander locked Gully under one arm, trying to fight him for the piece of toast he’d brought along. Willow appeared, running up the steps, her arms containing snacks to keep them all refreshed while they watched the try-outs. Gully had been the only one not surprised when she’d mentioned she’d signed up, having already mentioned it to him over the summer, but all of her mates had pressed her with encouragement and now, they were here, ready to cheer her on.

Addie gulped, clutching her broom tightly as the Ravenclaw captain marched across the pitch in front of them, indicating where each of them should group up depending on which position they were aiming for. Adelaide joined the other potential Chasers, having the most practice with that particular position, and looked up at the stands again, brow furrowed with a nervousness she couldn’t hide completely behind a cool exterior like her parents might have been able to. Her phone buzzed in her pocket and she glanced down at it.

‘You got this, Feathers.’

Addie smiled and closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. Yes, she had this. The worst thing that could happen would be she wouldn’t make the team and as disappointing as that would be, it wouldn’t kill her.