New for twenty two...

 We moved to Maine 22 years ago this week. I loved this house the first time I saw the realtor's photo of it, and I am so grateful to live here. We have made the place our own over the years, with lots of fresh paint, a roof, a furnace, landscaping, and more. When we bought this house, there was a deck that was part of our main entrance. 

The boards and supports began to get spongy last year, and the whole thing needed to be replaced. Finding a contractor was a trick. I tried for months. This was frustrating, but in the end, it was a gift, because with the help of friends, I realized there were better options for this structure, which didn't really suit our 100+ year old house. 

Another friend found me a contractor who not only wanted to take on our project, but totally "got" me. I'd explain what I was thinking of, and he would add perfect suggestions. About a month ago, he and his team got started making my house dreams come true. I enjoyed having them here and loved watching them create beauty around our cozy home. The end results are a delight. 

They tore off the old, rotten deck and built a beautiful new entryway. This greatly enlarged my favorite flowerbed. They made the prettiest little picket fence and gate. Then they spruced up the entry to the grooming studio, which is on the front porch. 

While they were at it, they replaced the under-house lattice skirting (which I never liked) with something much nicer. 

Best of all, they cut an enormous hole in my dining room wall, removing the small, off-center window and installing a large French door. Beyond that door, they built a 16 ' by 16' deck. Chris and I love sitting in our backyard and have talked about installing a deck for decades. Creating a new entrance and deck is a dream come true. 

Forty-two years ago this weekend, Chris and I met by happy chance. Twenty-two years ago, we moved to Maine. This year, we gave our beloved home a little facelift. I think the house approves. I know that we are delighted with the changes.