Jan
20
Drape It Like Woodrum
Good afternoon, bloggers.
Thank you to those who have been pitching in to answer questions on the blog. There’s such a demand for information about this incredible HGTV Dream Home – I appreciate the help!
Here are more answers to recently posted questions:
- * Gbeaupre and Karnie, there is a dishwasher in the butler’s pantry and one in the kitchen. Here is a picture of the kitchen washer, located to the left of the sink in the center island. I also appreciated the storage in the butler’s pantry and the recycling room, which is located around the corner from the kitchen.
- * Caryn in Illinois, San Antonito Elementary School is 5 to 10 minutes away from San Pedro Overlook.
- * Linda, Lorraine and other folks concerned about privacy in the master suite, take a look at the photos my hubby shot of me closing (and peeking through) the double doors that separate the bedroom wing from the rest of the home. Behind these doors you will enjoy your master suite; master bathroom; master closet (which, in case you missed it, is the biggest closet I’ve ever seen); the Sunrise Room; and the Laundry Room.
- * Oh, yes, Linda, I was just at HGTV Dream Home again and wanted to get a snack. It took me about nine minutes to drive to a grocery store! (My husband insists I tell you that I drive a bit fast, so it might take you 11 minutes.)
- * Terabythia, a cash prize of $250,000 was given away with two past HGTV Dream Homes. This year marks the largest cash prize in HGTV Dream Home history.
- * Julie in Tennessee, I just got off the phone with Linda Woodrum and she says the grommet drapes used to separate the master suite from the sunrise room were custom designed by Ethan Allen and displayed using hardware appropriate for the grommet drape style. To copy the look, anchor your drape rod at the very top of your wall, close to the ceiling, and make sure the curtains reach the floor.
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I must also share that during my recent HGTV Dream Home trip, I witnessed the most amazing – and awe-inspiring – sunset ever. It was rich with reds, golds and streaks of purple that blended in with the clouds. It made me wish I were a painter. In this time of chaos and destruction caused by natural disasters, I find myself closing my eyes to recall that sunset. It helps me focus on my deep gratitude for my life and my family.
Your Super Fan,
Gail
Better late than never! I've finally gotten around to setting aside a week (months down the road) for a trip to Santa Fe and the Turquoise Trail. Hotel reservations are made, even Santa Fe Opera tickets have been purchased.
Needless to say, I may not know the status of the 2010 Dream Home by the time summer comes around (as far as occupancy status) unless I'm the lucky winner, but it will still be a blast to cruise the Turquoise Trail, and follow in the very same footsteps as those infamous Dream Home pioneers, Linda Woodrum, Jack Thomasson, Monica Pedersen, Jamie Durie, and of course, our Super Fan GAIL.
Happy Turquoise Trails!
Hey, Coop, my husband and I will be in Santa Fe in June — maybe we'll pass you on the Turquoise Trail!
Have fun! Which opera will you attend? My husband and I will be there in early June, so we'll miss the season, which probably makes him happy. Our favorite Santa Fe restaurant is the Pink Adobe — we have their cookbook and use it all the time!
I have two of their cookbooks, WyoGirl — the Pink Adobe Cookbook and In the Pink. I love Rosalea Murphy's recipe for chicken enchiladas with sour cream. We got to eat at the restaurant many years ago. I had a huge salad with lobster which was delicious — wish I had the recipe!
That's one of my favorite recipes, C&E. We also like the Green Chile, and I have baked their apple pie with raisins and walnuts in it a lot! I didn't know about In The Pink — thanks for letting me know they have another cookbook! Oh, and Coop, sorry for hijacking your thread and that's not a remark about your name!
You made me giggle on that one to Coop!
You might want to plan a trip to Ten Thousand Waves…..very beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing…Japanese spa in the hills on the way to Santa Fe Summit….well worth a few hours of your time! I'm sure you can look it up online…. Ramona
Oh, lucky, lucky you….a trip to Santa Fe. Can't wait to hear about the Opera. Please tell us it's not "The Girl from the Golden West". Now I really hope one of us bloggers (if not you or me) win the Dream Home, because if you are cruising the Turquoise Trail and do not stop in to say hello to the winners we would feel so disappointed. After all, you are a Dream Home pioneer, just like the celebs from HGTV that you mentioned.
P.S. Are you still driving a red convertible?
Thank you for sharing these new photos. I had begun to wonder about the bedroom privacy after everyone started writing about it. It was a detail I had somehow missed on all my virtual tours of the home, not that doors will keep my children out of my bed in the morning.
I just have to say I love the latest picture slideshow of the living, dining and recycle rooms. I was able to pick up on all the little decorating details in the home. They also confirmed for me the peaceful openness of this home.
For all of you with little ones you can check out he local schools on greatschools.org. The elementary, middle and high schools are all rated 10 out of 10 possible points.
There is not a single problem for us living in this area. Love everything about this home and do not understand when people, like a woman from a neighboring area, put it down so badly. Don't like it….don't enter and GO AWAY!!! If it becomes my home, it will be used and loved and appreciated each and every day. No haters. lol
Hear! Hear!! (and that's my first blog post ever)
Gail,
I totally agree with you, in the all of the bad around us, we can stop and sense the realness of God when we see the sunsets like those seen in the HGTV Deam Home Videos. The home is beautiful but as I watched the video, I caught myself watching the skyline for the difference in the colors from morning to mid day, and evening. Wow, would I ever be so blessed to be sitting in that home surrounded by all of God's work! I don't get to get out of Holly Pond Alabama much, so being in this place woud be so surreal!
Your sense of love for your family was captured in your comments!!!!!
Karen……..Holly Pond, Alabama
Karen I'm a neighbor, I live in Union Grove, Alabama.
I have always loved sunsets. My bedroom was full of pictures of them when I was a teen. Now I make my wife and girls stop and watch the sunsets. We take them for granted.. Life is going by and God is painting the sky the most beautiful colors and most of the time, we don't even notice.
Thanks for ferreting out all the special details about the Dream Home. Now I have a special request. I would love to see a photo gallery of all the wonderful art pieces in this home. Some we can see in the tours, but some we cannot (or just see fleetingly). Others are missing, like the watercolors in the hall to the great room. I am curious to know more about these local artists – names, websites – so we can explore their work and their relationship to this Land of Enchantment. Many thanks.
Kate in Kansas
Hi Gail,
The last sentence of your post is or should be a great reminder and inspiration for all of us…."focus on deep gratitude for life and family." May I also add… for the love and joy of God. Aloha Ke Akua.
Mahalo,
Kananilehua
I keep thinking that it would be really cool for someone from Hawaii to win as that would be an interesting show when they surprise the winner…but then on the otherside it wouldn't be cool because well, frankly, I want to win too ;o) and I'm not in Hawaii. Good Luck!
Good Luck to you too!
Kananilehua, please don't think this is a dumb question, because I would like to know the answer. When you spoke of the monolith, you shared how it represents the spiritual beliefs of your people. Also the need to ask permission before removing lava or rocks. That part I understand. When you say God, who are you referencing? Is He over allt he other gods? How does your spiritual belief system work?
Hi again Lessie,
Our belief – we all pray to the same god. We have a supreme god and a myriad of other gods and family members who have passed and have been deified. Are you familiar with the Native American culture? Something like theirs.
Thanks, Kananilehua, now I understand. I appreciate your kindness in explaining your belief system and can also see why the 2010 Dream Home would be an easy living adjustment for you. You would indeed feel right at home here. So would I.
Hi Gail, I have been an avid reader of your posts on this blog and thank you for all your wonderful info! I am a PAINTER and can picture the sunset that you describe. How FANTASTIC! I wish I could paint that sunset over and over again… ALL THE BEST :0)))
Laura Barbosa, you just might get that wish!
I noticed that there seems to be a pile of stacked wood next to a photo of the garage. I thought all of the fireplaces were gas. Is there a wood burning fireplace or firepit is this fabulous house, or is my eyesight going and it is not stacked wood for burning?
I would shop around the area, and buy a nice Chiminea.
There has been speculation that the foyer fireplace can burn either gas or wood — don't know it that's true.
I hadn't noticed that pile of stacked wood next to the garage. Gotta think about that.
check the new videos…a great view of it.
Debra, I've had the same thought. As of yet, no one has given a definite answer.
If you like the sunsets wait until you see a thunderstorm racing across the desert. It's aboslutley amazing.
Can't wait to experience that, AppleAnny! It should be awesome!
Check out the windows on that garage! On the up, that's a strong incentive to keep it clean and neat. On the down side, it'll have to be kept clean and neat.
LOL. I wonder why nobody has been talking about "frosting" those windows?
Because frosting would melt on windows once the sun hit it, H_S. (Couldn't resist.)
hehehehe
LOL! Let me see…. "maple" would be too much of a similar color, "chocolate" would make it too dark in the garage, "vanilla" is too PLAIN. How about getting creative with food dyes, and doing a "marbled" combination of turquoise & burnt orange?
Burnt orange and vanilla….Some people might think of a creamsicle…that might not work either. Again…another idea melts.
Could someone do a translucent mountain design on it? Then, it could appear as a reflection of the mountains.
Love that idea too, Trish! You have a creative flair!
Great response, Trish!
AustinK, in my dreams, I've never thought about cleaning the Dream Home or the garage windows, just enjoying it. Am I a slacker? Not in MY dreams!!!
Gail — thank you for all of the Dream Home info — I'm not as good at navigating these sites as some of the other bloggers, but I try to respond to questions when I can for that very reason. I also don't mind when bloggers post comments about the difficulties in their lives. Many with hardships tend to feel rather isolated and alone, and just need a place to vent — this is as good a place as any, and they most likely don't expect others to respond anyway. The ones I've seen tend to be short and only posted once, and most move on to comment about how the Dream Home gives them something positive to think about. If commenting here helps them to relieve a little of the loneliness and stress they are feeling, then post away! Just my humble opinion.
You're right on, C&E. it may be the only available outlet, and gives a sense that SOMEBODY is listening to them after all. I don't mind those posts, as long as they're not used to go negative, or as a pulpit to condemn anyone else's "right" to experience the opportunity of winning the Dream Home.
When it comes to entering the sweepstakes, the computer sees each and every entry as equal.
To piggy back, I think the thing that bothers people (from what I've read) is when people say how much they DESERVE it and how it should go to someone who DESERVES it or NEEDS it…what I mean by that is we all have something going on in our lives– they are more than welcome to post theirs it doesn't mean that others don't equally have something and aren't as public about it– the end result that people have to realize (like Coop said) is that it is a sweepstakes, and while they may truly deserve or need it, the computer picks the winner. The other catch is that several of those people come on and complain about the high payout (taxes/HOA fees) if you receive it when while it would be nice to keep the house (and I am planning on making that work for me), if you can't there are options to sell and use the money to buy a fully paid off house or whatever…which heck, if it is the idea of having beautifully decorated house then I am volunteering to come help whomever decorate or coach them online as to easy free decorating on a dime that still looks fantastic!
Thanks, adisneyfamily. The part about "deserving" this house bothers me, too. I always wonder if it's just a poor word choice or if people think that somebody will select them if their story is convincing enough.
These are some valid points. I am willing to admit that some people may be more "deserving" of a windfall than others, but this contest is not the venue — this prize is chosen randomly so no one can have more right to the prize than anyone else. There are other contests out there where the prize recipient is chosen based on need — perhaps some people mistakenly think this is one of them. Fortunately I have only seen a few of the really negative posts, compared to those who merely state that winning the Dream Home would have a very positive effect on their lives — I still encourage the latter to post here!
The aspect of other venues is one that I also said in another post…from some of the posts I have read, I think some people put all of their eggs in one basket (so to speak) with this one and think that this is the one thing that will turn around their lives (no- not all are that way)…which the reality is there is only one winner. I also fully agree with WyuGirl's comment that it seems like some people think if they give a convincing enough answer they will "get picked" especially as afterwards those ones usually end it with "please PICK me."
I am sorry, adisneyfamily, but I just don't understandy why people would think that a sad, sad story is going to do it for them. Not that it is not true – but even so, would HGTV go out of their way to check? Sorry to say also, but I have not read all the comments – just take a quick look once in a while for interesting ones.
To be honest, what gets to me is how everyone is saying that it is more a burden to win this home than anything else. (ie: taxes, HOAs, no privacy) These are things that can be taken care of if you win. (not you personally adisney)
I don't know ~ I think people need to relax a little and win first! {te he he}
Personally, I don't think it is a burden…my original posts of posting numbers were when people were bashing on the house saying nobody could afford and I did the taxes to show them the opposite. I know that I could make it work for me and as for those who can't afford to live in the house, then think about the great house and other stuff they can do with the $1 million left after taxes…meaning that people seriously shouldn't be complaining.
As for the checking…HGTV could check anyone they want…the fact is that they aren't going to check out the "sob stories" as it is a sweepstakes. They will however check out the genuine winner (once chosen) as part of the rules say that they can disqualify someone if it will look negatively against them and their sponsors.
Well, my thoughts exactly. It is not a burden. Moreover, before worrying about any of this stuff someone needs to win first!
Regarding the sob stories, in accordance with the link you put up in another post – yes, HGTV will check out the "winner." In all seriousness, I doubt they could or even would want to investigate all the sob stories posted on a blog. Like I said, have not read all of them and don't plan to either – so I couldn't give you a nice number to look out to support that. Overall, if HGTV could check into it, I still strongly doubt they would want to.
Well – ahem.
Getting on my soapbox (shoebox) for a minute … I'll put my sob story up alongside anyone's.
Briefly ('cause, really,(A) who cares and (B) I start to bore myself after a few times telling this story…): my mom got cancer, I quit to take care of her, she died, my marriage dissolved, my two chronic health conditions got significantly worse, as a result I lost my business and my ability to work, as a result of THAT my daughter and I got evicted, and we're now living in a friend's basement.
Really. Beat that. Go ahead and God Bless if you can. BUT — here's my point (and I do have one, promise):
Ain't NONE OF THAT RELEVANT HERE!
Also? Not one moment of that hellish experience will keep me from dreaming and enjoying that dream of living there.
And finally this: Despite that dream? Despite my soul-crushing LONGING to move there and make a fresh start with my amazing kid? Unless I win ANOTHER sweepstakes, it ain't gonna happen!
Does that make this sweepstakes worthless? Am I being unspeakably foolish for entering or dreaming?
In a word: NO.
Dreams are there to motivate us, to inspire us, to PUSH US UP our own little ladders of life as high as we can go. So we aim for the stars and we miss. We might yet land on the moon.
That's my point, and I'll kindly invite anyone here to publicly beat me about the head and shoulders, should I win, if I EVER complain again after winning this.
Thanks. End rant. <G>
Awesome rant.
Hee ,thanks Susanna. <G> I admit, it felt good to get that off my chest!
Your line of thinking makes sense to me, Luv2c_NewThings. Win the Dream Home and then deal with all the wonderful hassels associated with winning.
Thanks Lessie!
I try to come on and read what you've posted too. Just for the sole reason that it is postive!!!
Luv2C_NewThings, that's also the reason I enjoy reading your comments. Thanks for a good read!
C&E, I agree, everyone can post but that doesn't mean I have to read each comment. At least they have expressed their opinion, which is what I do. No problem.
Isn't technology great when used in a positive way? We're all equal and have the same chance of winning the Dream Home as the next person.
C&E, I'm with you. People may comment about anything they like, if we don't want to read it we don't have to. I think its great that people feel safe enough on this site to talk about their situations, it may be the only place they have to vent. Welcome All.
Hi C&E,
Just wanted to say that I like your opinion and it was very humbling for myself to read.
THANK YOU!!!
C&E, I like your humble opinion. Thanks for sharing.
Here is my unofficial poll…though my inspiration comes from EdinOregon's comment to DBCoop's post. Anyone is welcome to participate. Everyone is encouraged to participate…the more the merrier- especially to get a well rounded answer. (drum roll please) POLL QUESTION: If you could choose anywhere in the United States for a DreamHome to be built, where would it be? And why that location? This is totally unofficial and has no bearing on where they will actually pick, but take a few minutes to dream about if you were to have a dream home tailored to you where would you build it. If there seems to be a landslide location or if someone argues their location well, then who knows…maybe someday we will see an HGTV Dream Home built there. Enjoy the Dream and good luck!
My answer:
(1) Iowa in the Des Moines area…personally, I have family about 2 hours away from there. Realistically, some of that area like Urbandale is ranked on the best places to live in America. The Johnston area is known for good schools. There is a job market there without being being metropolitan like New York or Seattle.
(2) Washington State in the area between Port Orchard and Bainbridge Island…location-smaller towns that you can enjoy with either a driving commute to Tacoma or a ferry to Seattle for work…very do-able. Washington has great outdoors activities and beautiful views with mountains, abundant water and ocean. It doesn't rain as much as outsiders think…there are actually 4 seasons and the summers are beautiful with temps ranging from 70's-90's with no feel of humidty. No state income tax.
(3) Hawaii…someone else mentioned it and it would just be cool…but the draw back is that I have heard from military families that have been stationed there that the cost of living is really high and locals don't always like mainlanders.
I like your question about where an ideal location would be. My answer is Santa Barbara, California because of its natural beauty and year-round good climate.
Limited to the "United States" — does that include all 50 AND U.S. Territories?
Your best guess as to where HGTV would allow…my thought is continental, but on my answer I included Hawaii as one as others have mentioned it before…heck, dream the dream meaning where would you like- put a continental U.S. and one outside…or however many.
You never did answer where you would like to live H_S…I'm curious to know.
My "Dream Home" is probably not going to be done by HGTV. I would like to live [again] on a large sailboat. It's like having waterfront property, with a changing view! If you get tired of one location, you untie your lines, hoist your sails, and move.
After living in FL for the last ten years, I'm not fond of having a home in a hurricane zone. After seeing what happened in Haiti, I'm not fond of living in an earthquake zone either. Having spent many years living in the "snowbelt" of NE Ohio, I don't care for "endless" winter weather. Back in 2006, I really wanted to win THAT Dream Home in NC.
I selected Montana from this site's poll choices. I would suggest eastern Tenn., or even Alaska as future possiblities. For now, I'll takeSandia Park — GLADLY!
Perhaps it's obvious, If I can't live ON the water, I'd rather "head for the hills!"
I also thought that Alaska would be a beautiful location, but it would take a hearty person to accept that with the cold…though I heard that NY is worse than some areas of Alaska when it comes to snow and such.
Well, the HGTV Dream Home 2010 IS my first choice because we have always planned to retire to New Mexico, but if we had to choose another location, the possibilities would be:
1) the northern Rocky Mountains or foothills, because I love the mountains and the sunny, cold, dry climate;
2) the big island of Hawaii, because my husband has worked there and we both love it (he would choose Hilo and I would prefer somewhere in the drier north);
3) Asheville, NC, or vicinity, again because of the mountains and also for the arts and crafts;
4) upstate New York because I went to school there many years ago and thought is was a beautiful area with all of those lakes and farms.
These are just a few off the top of my head, but I'm sure I could come up with more!
Great question! We love to visit the Oregon Coast, and I know a previous home was built there, so it's probably not likely. Washington state would be nice, too, or maybe New England? So many possibilities!
They've done 3 in Florida so it is always a possibility to have Oregon again. The Tillamook area is nice and I know people who live there and commute (a little longer than some would like- an hour and a half) to Portland for work…that's the catch with the coast- not too much big employment. There are other nice areas of Oregon that will put you closer to business and at a reasonable drive to the ocean or other recreation.
Martha's Vineyard – or any small New England ocean community
…or maybe Rockport up on Cape Ann? One of the most beautiful places in the world!
In case you don't know, the 2010 HGTV Green Home is being built in Plymouth. I'm sure it's going to be great! I think you can start entering in March…
Close…April. There is a blog up already for info on the building process.
The GH blog is having trouble. It freezes my computer when I try to use it.
You're right, the Green Home looks to be pretty close to a location I'd choose. I like the style of that house better too but it wouldn't look right in New Mexico. It's interesting to see how the regional styles reflect the environment.
Love your unofficial poll adisneyfamily! I have been wracking my brain to come up with the ideal location but I think I will have to defer to Jack. I would have never picked New Mexico this time last year but now I am so thrilled with this year's Dream Home that I think it was the perfect pick! Prior to this Dream Home, I didn't know diddly about New Mexico and now I realize that it is a wonderfully enchanting state!
As much as I love the water and warm weather, I have also loved the past Dream Home areas which are in the mountains and a bit cooler. So, I can't decide!
I do love reading everyone's answers and I look forward to more responses on this topic. Thanks again adisneyfamily for entertaining us with this thread!
Living the Dream!
Somewhere in the Southeast is where I would like so I can enjoy a milder, sunnier climate, be within reasonable distance to a beach, & still be able to visit relatives in Ohio by driving. Georgia, Northern Fla., or the Carolinas.
If they do florida again can they do near Disney World…it would make it much easier on my Disney obsessed familY!
If they build near Disney World, can it be next to Tiger Wood's home? I wouldn't have a problems with that.
I forgot to mention that a lake or beachfront property would be amazing! Also, I wish they would do one that a middle-class family could afford to stay in. For the majority of us a "dream-home" does not have to be valued at over a million dollars. It would still be amazing to collect on the sale of the home, but it would be painful too!!
Waterfront is always good in my book. I wonder if part of the cost of this particular DH is having it in a community with a HOA…if you look at other lots of the same acreage for sale in the area they are MUCH less…I'm sure that HGTV had a good reason for choosing to put it within a development community though.
Chrisha, that's almost like saying, "I want to fall in love, but…" I want it all, $2.2 mill. I'lll deal with the consequences after I win.
Sorry, I have not been on in a while because of school – but I absolutely LOVE your question! It was on the forefront of my mind when I was on the bus riding home from class and as I passed by a derelict house. I actually thought to myself: HGTV would NEVER build or reconstruct a home around here.
1 – My first reaction to your question was HAWAII, but I would not know what to do about a job over there.
2 – Then I thought somewhere close-by with scenery and plenty of city-life and I said Connecticut.
Adisneyfamily, I've thought about your question and read some comments, but I really don't have a preference. I love new places. Jack T seems to have a knack for finding out-of-the-way places for Dream Homes. I've learned so much about an area after it's chosen because of all the blogger input. I'm not willing to give that up, even though I love water and mountains.
I love to travel and see places! This has given me a look into NM and whether or not the DH is meant to be mine, NM is now on my places to visit list.
That's the fun of this blog. You get to travel and experience new places…in your mind. Hopefully, you'll also get to personally experience them, but if not, nothing can replace the sharing, learning, and memories you have from HGTV and fellow bloggers.
Hi,
Man those bedroom doors look huge! I can't wait to see more.
Can't wait to see that sunset for myself one day.
Thanks again Super Fan Gail!
Thank you Gail for another wonderful and informative Post! Please share the photos of the sunset!!
LynnCoggin: You are a fabulous sleuth & we do appreciate your tenacity toward that end!! I had spent a little time myself trying to track down Mr. Lay to no avail, so it is refreshing to have the shades of mystery unvailed to great satisfaction!! However, "The Rain God" guarding our beloved DH2010 has been working over time for putting a spell on our weather here in Southern Oregon! We needed the rain, but not all at one time! I'm still saying thank you to the Rain God for a wetter and greener existence here in Brookings!!! Thanks again Lynn…wonderful reporting!!!
Yes, I see that you West Coasters are being inundated with rain once again, and now we on the East Coast are as well. Please don't let yourselves get washed away, leaving us bereft of your always informative and enjoyable comments. That said, we here in the soaked and saturated Southeast respectfully request that you cease to send your stormy squalls our way! We are truly water-weary and need a chance to dry out — in more ways than one, since these grey and gloomy days are enough to drive anyone to drink! I've reached the point where I may have to beg Lay Powell's Southwestern Rain God to keep more of his bounty there and send less of it here!
Marie Miller – Thank you so much for the kind words! Glad you enjoyed the information! I so enjoyed figuring this one out.
Stay dry my friend!
Living the Dream!
Yes, thanks to The Rain God, my cup (or rather my swimming pool in this case) overfloweth! Time to turn off the spigot and let things dry out please, Mr. Shaman.
Marie Miller, didn't know you were getting drenched. Thought it was only Southern CA. Hope all is well for you.
my sweet Stockton friend…so oregon, huh? My sis in law lives in Springfield and my cousin owns a resort at Sun River…we will be heading that way this summer. Good to see you and Coop still have things in order, but who lyncogan???
I am very appreciative for the information, especially about the amazing sunset, a very touching gift from nature. That would be a gift in of itself for the winner of this home. I think of what peace that would bring my wife with her chronic pain because she so loves sunsets & to watch the sun rise every day. I wasn't even there to feel the sunshine with you, & yet you made my heart feel warm. Thank you. We do need to be very appreciative of all the good in life at times like these. You are so correct. Thanks Gail.
For those of you who want a realistic viewpoint of winning. Here is the HGTV link to the interview with the 2002 winner of the DH in MD. http://www.hgtv.com/dream-home/a-winners-tale/ind…
Thanks, for posting that link — REALLY GOOD reading! Imagine, he only entered ONCE!!!
Yep- it goes to show you that even though most of us are entering every day it doesn't mean that we really have much better of a shot. Several of the smaller interviews I have found (when googling) of other winners have said that they only entered a few times…that is if they are being fully honest as we might sound obsessive saying that we entered EVERY day ;o) -even though we all are!
Again, thanks. It took me awhile to read the whole thing, what with daily routine stuff, but well worth my time!
EVERYONE should read this!!!
That's the other aspect of why I try to tell people to not sweat all of the details like taxes now because if you want to make it happen then they will help show you options.
I tried to copy your link for a blogger on the "Videos" thread, bu it led to errors. Perhaps you could re-post for that blogger. Thanks, H_S
LOL ~ in an earlier reply to a post from you, I asked if HGTV would actually check if a person's story was true or not. After reading half way through the article you linked us to the obvious answer is YES. Not that it matters, but they actually could if they wanted to.
Thanks Gail for your insights! I wish buying a home were like this–have a super fan to let you know all the details of the home before buying. I feel like I know more about the dream home than I do my own home. All the more reason why I should win this home. Can’t wait until the winner is announced. BTW, is there a farmer’s market nearby?
I googled. here is a link for Sandia Park area as well as i saw a bigger one in Sante fe.
http://www.localharvest.org/search.jsp?map=1&…
Can you please tell me about the mysterious "bathroom shown on the floor plans, but never mentioned. It appears to just be accessible from the outside, near the Laundry room.
It's a utility room, not a bathroom.
No surprises from me about favorite places for a Dream Home, although I'd have a problem with just ONE choice. Anyway, my current favorites are: Hawai'i (Kukiu'ula, Poipu, Kauai), Pine Mountain, GA (Callaway Gardens), and Charlottesville, VA (Keswick Estates)—all three are high on my list.
I don't know that particular town, but when we visited Virginia Beach for my daughter's birthday we really liked what we saw of Virginia…well, all except the Blizzard that we drove home in– but that was the whole East Coast…stinks to have a December birthday!
adisneyfamily, Charlottesville is nice, very nice. I think you would love it. UVA is there.
Lessie- I just looked out the window and I was curious if you still have snow (in piles) from the Dec. 18th snow…we still have about a 2 1/2 foot mound from the snow plow.
Most of the snow in my area has melted. But then, in the areas where snow plows piled up heaps of snow, there may be a 3 or 4 ft mound. But generally, the snow has been rained or melted away.
Minor typo alert: The development in Poipu, Kauai, HI is correctly spelled Kukui'ula, in case you wished to check it out.
I should have paid more attention the first time…look at you Super Coop with giving actual housing developments…as usual- you are awesome! I've looked up one and plan to look up the others- thanks again!
I think VA was my favorite. I liked the concept of Kukui'ula, but it was hard to get the full feel when there weren't pics to go along with it. I'm not too fond of the GA…part of it is the location as it seems every other time there is a tornado warning in this country it is right through there.
A Dream Home Blast from the Past: a primer for those HGTV dreamers who need to know everything about Dream Home 2010, and it's glorious fourteen year history from years gone by.
1999 HGTV Dream Home – Rosemary Beach, Florida (DH #3)
The 1999 HGTV Dream Home was built on the pristine beaches of Rosemary Beach, FL. The architecture of the surrounding area reflects the beautiful designs found in cities like New Orleans, Saint Augustine, and the Caribbean. The house includes unusual features like a roof that is custom-designed to keep the house cool despite the Florida heat and an outdoor room that is just as beautifully furnished as any of the interior areas.
Winner of the 1999 HGTV Dream Home: Belinda Brown of Kingston, Tennessee
My first dream home entry, ah the memories…. loungin on the loggia
thanks Gail, I just love everything about this house. Showing the details to us make us getting more excited to live on this beautiful house very soon. It's worth waiting and dreaming for all of us who join. More power!!
I'm still wondering WHY this home wasn't built in the New Mexican tradition,ie with the vigas and the carved posts and all the wonderful things that identify the homes of thatarea. Also the furnishings,while wonderful, they aren't anything like the usual furnishings of a home in this style. You missed such opportunities to display that style.
Informal polls in the past have shown HGTV they'd get more interest in transitional and contemporary designs than following specific styles to a "T" that folks either love or hate. The major sponsors which make the dream home giveaway possible also play a large role into what makes it into the annual dream home.
Good response!
So are there medicine cabinets behind the mirrors in the master bath? and How many bathrooms are in the main house?
Congratulations — I think that's the first time this question has been asked! I don't know the answer, but I just wanted to comment on your originality!
Three bathrooms in the main.
Its very unlikely there are any "medicine" cabinets behind the mirrors.
that was supposed to say ease-free…meaning not difficult…yes- decorating will cost you but it doesn't have to cost a lot if you don't want it to…there are places to buy affordable.
BRAVO GAIL, Your comments are fantastic! Bravo and thank you.
Keep up good work. Well deserved Super Fun.
Are there CC&R,s in this community, and if so what is the total cost yearly? Also can you give us a round about figure on what the property tax is per year?
We have taken a early retirement and was interested in this information, Thank You Terry and Lucille White SR.
Umm, what is a CC&R?
It's covenants, which there are.
Thanks Wyogirl.
I've been to the SPO website and I know what they are. I've just never seen them abbreviated that way before.
Lucille, as reported in previous blogs, here is the basic financial info that we have. Remember that this is only an estimate, so it's good to consult an accountant. Income taxes for receiving the prize (due the following April 15): Roughly 40% of the total prize value, or approximately $800,000, will go to federal and state income taxes, depending on the state where you live. Property taxes each year: Approximately $10,000. HOA dues: There are annual dues of approximately $2400. This covers primarily the maintenance of the grounds (landscaping), private roads, community center/pool, gate/concierge, and snow removal.
Unfortunately, there is total rip off that legalized thief takes about 40% or $800.000 it is never heard of in some other countries and deserves jail sentence for rips off. It is aggressive attack on homeowners that forces lots of people become homeless. It makes difficult to leave normal life in security and peace and own deserving simple home. Sucks your bleed like bed bags and makes it impossible to enjoy deserving joy and peace
It's funny…I don't think that most of America realizes that they are supposed to pay taxes on prizes and even gifts. I didn't know until I looked it all up and I was shocked at all of the things that you are supposed to count as income…even that $10 you made babysitting in middle school was supposed to be taxed as income or if you made a profit above the value of an item at a yard sale (like say you sold a collector's item) then it is supposed to be taxed as income.
Wow, I guess you feel strongly about this…
I 'tour' the home almost every day, it is totally suited for my family. I know the winner will be one lucky, happy person; just hope it's me !!!
Love your comment Gail, "I find myself closing my eyes to recall that sunset. It helps me focus on my deep gratitude for my life and my family." It puts everything in the proper perspective.
Wow this is an amazing home! I absolutely agree with you Gail about the sunsets of New Mexico, which is where the Sandia mountains get their name. At dusk, from the Albuquerque side (which is where I've seen) the sunset turns the entire mountain a beautiful pinky-orange.
Tahnk you for the information on the master bedroom, my hubby and I were a bit confused as to privacy when we veiwed the pictures. I would really like to know if there is a home security system. Thanks for the blogs, keep up the good work!
Good morning Gail!!!
Your are a very beautiful lady!!!! and I hope you are having a good morning!!
I wanted to ask if you could tell me about the play house?
How big is it?
I can just see my kids out there playing in it!
Thank you and have a wonderful blessed day!!!
Sarah Lynn
Hail to the King of Blog!! Coop!! I agree, it's Pine Mountain, GA (Callaway Gardens) for me too!!
Does anyone how far it is to the nearest Protestant church?
Kelli, that's a good question for one of the locals or SPODutch.
I would also like to know the nearest Catholic Church. Where can we find one of the locals and who or what is SPODutch?
Shelley, you can search for churches in the area on the website or maybe SPODutch or other locals can give you the information you’re seeking.
Hello all…first time posting a comment here, but long time reader
. I just have a question..as far as the taxes that the "winner" is responsible for..how does that work? Thanks
Not sure on your question "how does that work". You pay the IRS (not trying to sound sarcastic or anything). If you are asking for amounts and breakdowns, it is covered in many posts on here…the full breakdown is in a post that I posted under the Shawls blog…it should be on the first or second page right now as I put it back to the top for someone else a couple of days ago.
Welcome FelizMonkey! Taxes have been discussed in great detail in previous blogs. Check out the newbie blog.
HGTV will send an IRS 1099 form which reports the prize as income. From there you just pay your regular income tax filling in the appropriate forms. State and local depend on where you're from as well as where the dream home is.
(continued)
I don't know if you read any of my other posts but in speaking with him, I encouraged him to start a website for his art and to join facebook as well. And…he did! I am so excited for him because I believe his talents are extraordinary and his business will grow if people can actually find him!
If you go onto facebook and type his name, he opened his account yesterday. You can see some of his other works. He was telling me that he recently started doing steel sculptures with stained glass in them…they are fabulous!
Let me know what you think.
Living the Dream!
AWE WOW! AWE MAN, SO SWEET! Please let me win this awesome home! PLEASE! SERIOUSLY PLEASE! FOREVER TRULY PLEASE! LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS HOME! A BIG WOW FROM MY HEART! WOW, WOW, AND SERIOUSLY SWEET!
If only it was that simple, Beanie Stauffer. Fortunately you must submit an entry just like the rest of us and hope your entry is selected!
Dear Mary:
I live just down the street from the 2010 HGTV Dream Home. Is it possible to still try to get in on the tour of the home. I understand you had to enter for that also?
I could just drive up there and join the group. Please let me know if that option is still available.
Thanks!
Barbara Grantham, check the latest blog or call the High School. They are the ones handling the tour.
I am a painter and the painter I emulate is Georgia O'Keeffe who just happened to live a very short distance from where this house is located, Ghost ranch and Abiquiu.
I first started researching her work when I was in college and she was still alive back in 1982. I saw a VHS tape of her and Juan working together and had to have that video, I have watched it at least once a month since.
My dream to paint like her within the very mountains where she painted and was inspired would be a lifelong dream. To sit out on the terrace and listen to the wind…hmmmm
Her spirit lives on within those mountains.
Thanks for letting me share my dream with you!
Great dream, Janetkid. Was at the Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu in November. Never experienced anything like that before. Breathtaking sunrises and majestic sunsets…AWESOME!
Thanks and I will one day go Ghost ranch and visit it-I envy you that you were able to go. I can only imagine how it felt to walk on the same soil that Georgia walked…… I am such a dreamer.
Ghost Ranch employees are the best! You're going to love it there. They offer Georgia O'Keeffe tours and also have a great museum. I spent a week there. When an employee told me they refer to the Ghost Ranch as the Thin Line, I understood why. It is indeed the thinest line between heaven and earth. If SPO is anything like the Ghost Ranch, the winner is in for a SUPERNATURAL TREAT!
Dear Mary:
Can you please give us "contenders" for the home the date of the 2010 Home Tour?
I live down the street from there and I want to get an invitation to go? I have been reading that others are asking too. Do you of any information on that?
Much appreciated!
Barbara Grantham, I have copied this comment from an earlier post by one of our renowned bloggers, LynnCoggin. So far, no other information has been put up about the start date for tours.
In regards to the Dream Home Public Tours, please review this article…
http://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/othercities/al…
In addition, I found out that in lieu of calling the high school about tickets, you can go to their website at http://70.47.39.50/ and they will be updating information regarding the tours. I believe they may be starting the beginning of February.
Gail, You're the greatest! I love hearing the answers to other's questions. It was great that you took the pictures of the doors to the hall to the Master Suite so everyone could see just how private it is. And two dishwashers! I do think my favorite room may just be the kitchen with that gorgeous wall of tile and the great appliances! I LOVE to cook and bake so I would get a lot of use in this gorgeous kitchen! Ahhhhhhhhh! I'm in LOVE with this 2010 HGTV Dream home!!! ~Teresa~
You're in good company, Teresa. Many people love the 2010 Dream Home.
Yes Mame! I LOVE love lOvE this gorgeous HGTV Dreamhome and LOVE to say it!
I can tell, Teresa. You're a true Dream Home blogger!
To: Our Dear Super Fan, Gail: I am just a little curious as to why a "jetted" tub was not placed in the master bathroom? Just wondering…………. I adore this home. It is fabulous. Linda and Jack have done it again. As always I am immensely impressed with their joint efforts. Very Sincerely,
Oh yes, this is one of my questions, too.
Although I suppose you can just stick a hot tub out on the patio! (But somewhere else they said pools had to be enclosed by a wall in the community — does the same go for hot tubs, I wonder?)
I would really like to have SOMETHING like that to help with the chronic back pain from my degenerative disk disease.
exactly! thanks for commenting too, Single Mom!
For me personally I like the peace of the tub in the master bath. Jetted tubs are noisy. Open the barn doors and drink in the scenery in your peaceful tub. That is what I can imagine. And a jetted tub would ruin that.
Wait..in this blog from Gail it says, "Here is a picture of the kitchen washer, located to the left of the sink in the center island." Is my computer acting goofy or is it missing that photo?
Living the Dream!
there is no photo posted. It is not your computer.
What about the guest/kids' bedroom closets? Anyone know how big they are or if they are walk-in?
It hasn't been on here yet…but that's my question too…need some place to put toys away.
Big closets in both. Here's the link to the floorplan:
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/photo_template/articl…
there are walk in closets shown in the floor plans.
One thing I am interested in……Storage, storage, storage. We know the master suite has a glorious closet, but what about the other bedrooms? Is there a closet for coats somewhere in the entry way or great room (I imagine it does get cool in New Mexico in the winter). But most of all I wonder about air conditioning….it is in the middle of the desert after all. Is there a cooling system for the home? Thanks for all your help!
The 3-car garage offers alot of room for storage. With that high ceiling there is enough room to put in a "loft" with a pull-down staircase. There is no A/C, but ducts & vents are preinstalled if you want to add an A/C unit or swamp cooler.
Also, regarding closets, here is the link to the floorplan, which shows big closets in the bedrooms and an entry closet at the office entrance:
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/photo_template/articl…
Didn't I see some sort of children's playroom with Disney theme in earlier TV Dream Home shows? Don't see it anymore. Where did it go? I wanted to turn it into a fun at-home gym if I won!
It's still there. The Back Patio photo gallery has several pictures of a playhouse. Also, the children's room has a Toy Story theme.
I'm wondering about storage space. Is there an attic? How big are the closets? Is there a closet in the casita?
Thanks!
No attic, no basement. I believe there is a closet in the casita. We think the garage is the best place for indoor storage.
Since the ceiling in the garage is SO high, perhaps you could add a loft with pull-down stairs.
Again, here's the floorplan which shows closets everywhere, including the casita:
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/photo_template/articl…
Have been entering every day ….My husband has MS and this home would be perfect for us. I am praying that this will be our new home It is beautiful.
IF I WIN THAT BEAUTIFUL HOUSE, CAR AND OTHER PRIZES , IS IT POSSIBLE THAT I COULD RECEIVE CASH INSTEAD? I UNDERSTAND THAT IT WOULD COST A LOT TO LIVE IN THAT AREA AND KEEP UP THE PROPERTY. I WOULD LOVE IT THOUGH. I AM SERIOUS. PLEASE REPLY.
There is a post by "adisneyfamily" in this thread that has a link which will take you to an interview with the winner of the 2002 Dream Home. You can read about what he did.It is a GREAT article!
There has been discussion about the developer offering to BUY BACK this home. Please read through these blog posts, and you will learn alot.
Thanks for the great answers! I've been wondering what the white space is on the layout between the home office and dining room? Looks like maybe a coat closet and something else? I personally love having a closet near the front door since I'm a barefoot kinda gal and only usually slip on shoes on my way out
So was hoping that's what it is maybe?
That area holds a bathroom and coat closet…..
Awesome! I was wondering if that was a little powder room back there – that's perfect! I'm hoping to get my father to move with me when I win it (March 14 is my birthday, so I KNOW I'm going to!) and that will mean I won't have to worry about keeping "his" bathroom (the jack and jill) clean for guests! lol I think I'll be able to convince him since be had wanted to move to the SW 20+ years ago and his company sent him to Florida instead. With mom passed, I've been trying to get him to move closer to me but he refuses to move because its such a pain. I'm thinking the dream house will change his mind though
Thanks for the info. I love having a coat closet by the door too – it really is perfect
the floor plan is @ http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/photo_template/articl… …… Good Luck!!! The Office or Casita would be great for your Father to feel like "his own" space.
Thanks! I had looked for a floorplan but didn't find it.
Actually my father is diabetic and has to use a walker, so he cannot be that far away. Only thing I'll have to do is change the tub in the jack & jill bathroom to be a shower only as he cannot step up over a tub side and add some handcapped rails.
Besides my best friend has designs on the casita eventually expanding it to include her own living room and kitchen
Unless of course she finds another house close by when we sell the house we own together in Florida. Our house in Florida has the upside/down problem though so we will probably not be able to sell it for a while. She's either going to stay in Florida for a while or we are going to rent it out. Haven't decided which yet 
I just wanted to chime in and say I lived in the Santa Fe area for 9 years. Life is deceiving. You are out in the seclusion of space such as the HGTV home, but only twenty minutes away from whatever you need. This particular homesite appears to be very close to Albuquerque. Trust me — no big deal. All your needs are easily provided for! Good luck to whoever wins.