Progress . . . of Sorts

Do you remember last spring when we had torrential rains that flooded our basement? Yeah, it's a distant unpleasant memory for me too. Well, we finally had the drain tile and sump pump installed in December. Then we had to re-drywall, and do something about the floor which had been carpeted, but we weren't going to do that again. Anyway, this basement project is the main reason that the house has been so dusty for the last couple of months (that's my story anyway). Drywall dust just keeps floating around and reappearing just moments after having been wiped away!! Even covered with plastic, everything had layers and layers of dust -- ugh!

So, the last two weekends we had tile installed in the basement. It turned out great! And, the basement is so clutter-free -- the first time in years!! Of course, the laundry room and furnace room are both packed with stuff that we need to deal with (i.e., get rid of a lot of it)! Anyway, I finally feel like we are making a bit of progress.

The new tile floor -- so nice!!

Mr. Tennis liked the new tile so much that we are now having new tile installed in the foyer and that project is being worked on this weekend and next probably. I'm afraid that 2009 is also going to be known as the year of the home repairs!

The Rickster's exercise domain -- elliptical, back stretcher and some weird hang-upside down machine -- that is going to make it's way to the recycling center or Craig's list soon!

Need a Last Minute or Hostess Gift?

Even though I have been woefully behind on everything this holiday season from shopping to baking to Christmas cards and especially cleaning up that drywall dust that is everywhere, etc., I have been working on a little craft project too. It's so much more fun to do than cleaning! I saw this on Shell in Your Pocket (and Sandy Toes generously allowed me to borrow her photo above). So, I have been making some coasters for neighbors and family as little holiday and/or hostess gifts. Aren't they adorable! I've already given some to neighbors at two different holiday parties and the recipients thought I was the craftiest, sweetest neighbor ever!! Here are the two different designs I've done! Who can resist a Fleur-de-Lis?

I made these on a travertine-type tile. It also works on shinier ceramic tile. The image is definitely sharper on ceramic tile, but I like this look better. If you use the ceramic tile, I think you need to spray the tiles with an acrylic sealer as the stamp may run if you put down a wet glass (and I know I would). Then, as the Queen Bee would say, tie it up with some ribbon and you've got yourself a great little gift! :)

And -- woohoo -- this is my 100th post!! Who knew I could write 100 posts in a year! What a great way to keep track of what's been going on in my life -- which works for me since my memory is not that great! Bonus -- it's been so much fun meeting and making so many new friends in bloggerland. More fun awaits, I'm sure in 2009! Now back to my baking and wrapping!

Merry Christmas to All!