Remodeling Update

You may have thought we finished the kitchen, but our remodeling project continues on. We had one of those old, out-dated square fluorescent lighting fixture that was in critical need of attention. There was also a 10x2 inch hole in the ceiling when we purchased the house; I assume it was there for some maintenance of the water pipes? Anyways, I knew I wanted the modern look of recessed lighting, but wasn't sure how to put it in our small alley kitchen. Originally I wanted 7 lights, but Bryan could only get 6 due to structural obstacles. I'm actually glad he put in as many as he did because it would have been really bright in there.

We also put in crown molding. We actually argued about this project many times. Bryan wanted to put it up. I didn't. I know. I know. Who doesn't want crown molding in their house? I actually had a pretty valid point, at least I think I did. We have spent way too much time (and money) on the downstairs. I wanted to focus our attention on up dating the upstairs and do those "finishing touches" projects later. Bryan insisted it wouldn't take long and it would keep him busy for a couple of days (he has been extremely bored with only 2.5 hours of classes at night Monday-Wednesday). So I let him do the project. He probably would have put it in without my permission anyways. He was right on this one. I was definately in the wrong. I am so glad he did it! It looks amazing! I am so impressed with Bryan's skills.
Now we just have to do some touch up painting.
I love the edge work he created with the end pieces and the rounded corners.
It definately makes the rooms appear taller and adds a pop to the colored walls. Our little house projects are really coming along quite nicely. What do you think?

Xterra Trail Run

We don't have any pictures of our trail run race, so here's a picture I pulled from the Internet. The company was charging like $15 a picture, which is outrageous. I signed us up for a 21K (1/2 marathon) trail run in Waco TX not really knowing what I was getting into. I figured it would be fun because I wouldn't be running on the streets which I find pretty boring at times. I was excited about running near the waterline and through the woods. Little did I think about lots and lots of hills and a Jacob's ladder to the max! This was one tough race man! Bryan actually did very well. He ran it in 1:45- first in his age group and 8th overall. I think I sucked- big time! I actually thought about quitting half way through it, but am glad I completed the race. I would have regretted it later on. I ran it in 2:40- fourth in my age group and I don't know overall what I was. I guess trail running adds about 30 minutes, so they say. I really wanted to beat my last 1/2 marathon time, and that was a bummer, so I guess I have to sign myself up for another race. The trail run was fun and different and I highly recommend it- just be prepared for a tough race. I am actually going to do another one in Austin TX (18K), but I am going to prepare myself a little differently this time around.