When a real estate listing isn't quite what they advertise....

I am all for being optimistic and putting your best foot forward. However, as I was browsing real estate listing in Vieques  in preparation of our upcoming House Hunting International Trip as I call it I stumbled upon a listing for a Hotel we all had pipe dreams about last time we visited. The real estate listing does disclose that a full remodel is needed so I will give them that. But the pictures have to be quite outdated. Listing can be found on Island Real Estate. These pictures are from their site.

These are a few quick phone snaps I took when we were there in December....

 

Something is not the same. To help you get a better idea the grass you see in the above picture is the pool. Hmmm.... Listing says motivated seller - curious how motivated they are. Anyone interested in being a financial partner in a hotel in Vieques?? Seems like quite the amazing venture I think.

Hello Happy Chicks

 

 Priase the Lord the chicks are all still alive and happy. We currently have ten little lovelies residing in the coop de Fort Knox. Nothing can get in and eat them this year! I also realize that ten is way too many so eventually I need to find a new happy home for about four of them...

I actually have three different breeds so I need to take pictures of them all. Love watching them grow and will love the fresh eggs even more. Funny enough my neighbors love the chicks as well. One neighbor told me her husband comes over every morning to say "hello" to the chicks. He claims they really enjoy when he talks to them. Funny city folk :)



Weekend Snaps

Lately I love finding unique funky afghans at thrift stores. My mom crochets so I know the amount of time and work that people dedicate to making these beauties.

The Country Shack is coming together nicely and officially open for occupancy. I still need curtains, baseboard, a few more accessories but it's livable and fun. If you asked my brothers I made it way too girly, but also keep in mind when they occupied this shack it was full of beer and car signs and lights complete with thrift store couches so they don't get to judge.

Jeremy McComb played for a fun Sunday night gathering at my parents. If you haven't heard this guy look his music up on Itunes. You'll love him and he's super funny and nice on top of being a talented musician.

 

My brothers did not approve of the front door choice. I heard one brother say something was wrong with the door so I thought maybe paint was smeared and ask oh no what. His response: "It's Pink". Funny boys.



I Think I Need a River House?

My mom and I have a love for all things water. It's so relaxing. After falling in love with a sweet little shack on Lake Manawa I have now decided I probably need a home on a lake or river.

By chance we happened upon this beauty while at our cabin last weekend. Headed to look at farmland and spotted a few river homes for sale.

It's set back far enough and high enough to not worry about a flood but still waterfront with great views, a dock, and river access. So tempting!

Plus I love the high ceilings, great woodwork, and the fact it needs a little TLC as then I can transform it to a style I like without feeling guilty.

If I do purchase it I'll probably rent it out during hunting season (duck season for sure) for anyone interested, possibly even during the summer if you're looking for a fun little weekend getaway.

Weekend Snaps

Memorial Day weekend was full and relaxing. The perfect combo. We kicked it off with Birthday dinner for my brother at Archie's in Le Mars - known for their "vintage" quirky decor, amazing steaks, and crazy cheap but delic wine

 

 Picking wildflowers/weeds for the cabin.

 

 

A day that started with a trip to Bomgaars a few towns away and ended up entailing new baby chicks, hilarious (or so we thought anyway) cups, and stops at several small town bars where we became the entertainment I am certain.

 

 

Days scavenging barnwood and enjoying wide open spaces and glorious blue skies

 

Getting country for a band at our favorite local bar - chuck norris shots included.

Blessed to have such an amazing family and this place we can go unwind, relax, and enjoy quality

time together.

 

 

God's Beauty

 

"He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake." Psalm 23:2-3

 

 

That moment in time when I actually stopped to smell the fresh country air, take in my surroundings to truly appreciate God's handiwork,  and realize how blessed I truly am.

This Memorial Day

Please take time to say Thank You to a veteran today and remember those who have lost their life for our freedom. Thank you to those families who are missing a loved one and to each of you have have scarified or continue to sacrifice for my freedom.

Give your Worries to God

 I think we are all guilty of worrying too much, often about things we can't change. I know I sometimes am. I loved this verse as a reminder to just let go of those worries.

 

"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?" Luke 12:25-26

 

You are on the path of my choosing. There is no randomness about your life. As you give yourself more and more to a life of constant communion with Me, you will find that you simply have no time to worry. Jesus Calling - Sarah Young

Hope everyone has a great refreshing Holiday weekend.

Celebrate CB Parade 2014

 

 

Luckily the bug is fixed and was back in parade ready status just in time for this year's event. 

 

Unfortuantly due to a decision by the Celebrate CB Parade Board  there was somewhat of a black cloud over our parade this year. A Veterans float was excluded and it caused many other groups to bow out to support the Veterans. I still participated as I felt as a member of the City Council I didn't want to let down all of the students, businesses, and nonprofits that spend hours or more creating floats, practicing their routines, and preparing for this parade.

We were blessed with a gorgeous weather day and my driver (thank you brother Erik) did amazing. Thankful for that and hopeful a solution will be worked out to ensure the Veterans are not excluded next year. All three of the Head kids particpated in the parade this year and our mom - quite possibly the greatest cheerleader ever - came out to watch us.