Time out

It's been really nice to have a break from looking at house stuff.  We had glorious sunny weather in Auckland over the weekend, so we made the most of it.  We took the girls to Ambury Farm Park in Mangere Bridge - it's fantastic; a working farm and therefore had actual farm animals on it.  Sheep, pigs, cows and chickens.  It's good for the kids to see that they exist not just in story books....!  And the views over the Manukau Harbour are beautiful:

We cycled there from Onehunga (about 10km return) - Steve with the girls in the bike trailer and me by myself (very cruisy!).  Max had some quality time with his aunty and uncle.

Speaking of our family, we are very lucky to have some great experience within it when it comes to renovations.  Both my sister-in-law and brother-in-law have completed one each.  One in the UK which was mostly decoration and one in Australia which involved renovation and rebuild.  Both were super stylish and great inspiration for us.

We have had great conversations over the summer about the practicalities and the pitfalls (eg 'charge up' versus 'fixed priced' pricing), and they have collectively forced us to look much more closely at the detail much sooner than we otherwise would have done.  Like the lighting - we still need to think about exactly where we want the lights (although Steve has done a draft plan), and how we will use them.  I must remember to detail outside lighting... we don't have any at the moment (except for a spotlight) and I love the idea of creating a warm atmosphere outside for dining or relaxing at night in the summer time.

I also get emails from my sister-in-law with pictures from magazines and websites attached.  She is so good with suggestions and ideas.  Also, if we have ideas or questions she is quick to respond with her experiences (eg continuous hot water systems) and recommends solutions... so brilliant to have her experience on hand.

Here are her latest deliveries to our inbox: 

This picture was a possible solution to the TV conundrum we were having (I think having the TV above fireplace seems like it gives the TV hero status and is ugly).  We are probably going to have the TV above the fireplace nonetheless.  Within a dark wall, recessed and hopefully, barely noticeable!!! 

The sheer curtains in this picture are an idea for us with our huge stacker door opening.  In winter, I think these would create a nice cosy atmosphere, along with our fireplace.  I am a bit scared of curtains though....they are hard to get right.

This kitchen has an appliance cupboard - hidden.  So you don't see any clutter.  LOVE.

See what I mean?   Fantastic fodder for thought.

The girls have recently taken to poring over house magazines and pointing out their bedroom or their house.  They could be a great help too.....

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