Aug
12
Take the Virtual Tour
Today we launched the online tour of HGTV Urban Oasis 2010, a luxury apartment located in New York City. Take a few moments to click around and explore each room. There are tons of great tips and behind-the-scenes details from Vern, so please read each caption (sorry, it’s the editor in me). Then, click on the Sweepstakes button to learn more about how you can enter to win the apartment and a vehicle – a grand prize package worth approximately $1.5 million!
Loved the tour. What awesome views from this Urban Oasis!
My goodness! This place is beautiful! Perfect for a vacation. Couples getaway!!
I have so many favorites….the library photo, the shower, the toilet, the view!!
Thank you Mary, just took the tour. Love the view in all directions and in all rooms.
Mary, It seems they have you working double time and overtime, so I'm ashamed to ask….
Do you have any updates on the upcoming Green Home?
I guess curtains are verboten in NYC. That must be why they have the binoculars on the psychiatrists couch! I didn't realize I had a touch of claustrophobia until I toured this condo! ^_^
Could it also be a fear of heights and the number 33 all combined into one major phobia? Lay down on the couch so we can explore your fears. Ok that sounds strange. Lets just get you un-phobified.
Why do I feel like I just toured a Lego apartment in someone's Freudian dream?
Must have something to do with your id. ^_^
Hee! Or the designer's
Too funny, but excellent observations. It's well done for what it is, but the kitchen looks too small to store any groceries. I guess New Yorkers eat out a lot. I was wondering about the curtains, hoping they were hidden in there somewhere
Did you have this dry and hilarious humor as a kid? I can always picture the exact scene. I think you can use an uncurtain curtain, like a mesh shade, so you can see out, and the pigeons can't see in.
I don't know Janice. I can't remember that far back! ^_^
I don't think you just get funny, you are born that way, and then you get funnier. Then you get so funny, that people tell you that every time you even so much as look at them, or show up in the same room they start laughing. Then you begin to expect people to laugh and they are pretty funny because of their expectations, and then you start to laugh at them. It gets really confusing!!!
Boy you're a real crackerjack when you post earlier in the day. I am used to you coming out at the witching hour rather than high noon. Is this two faces of EVE Janice one day time face and one night time face?
It's me!!! It's what's in those cracker jack boxes that gets interesting. Member how you would just mindlessly go through the box, till ya get the prize.
That was the first thing I went for. Then I would eat the crackerjacks.
Me too. I didn't know people actually ate their way to the prize.
I think I remember you saying this. I did too, and found some really cool, little, tiny eency weency things, that you had to dexteriously maneuver with little fingers, but all workable. Is Cracker Jack still putting in the surprises?
You'll never guess what just happened. It is the serendipity that I always get with you Eddie George. I went to visit a slew of visiting nieces and nephews all about the same age. I am tellin you, I haven't seen a cracker jack box in a long time. Well right there on the kitchen table was a stash of treats including a tin bag, not a box, of cracker jacks. For old time sakes, I took a handful of jacks and privately chuckled today about your comment.
That's pretty amazing. Did you get any peanuts in your handful?
There were right there in front of me asking to be grabbed, and yes I did…but who counts when you are having fun.
With a sly smirk on my face, now that it is "late night", as Letterman would say, what face do you see?
Well I'll be! It's Gracie! Say good night Gracie. ^_^
I have a cigar in my mouth George, you'll have to say goodnite for both of us, and if you say the magic word, the duck will come down. Wait a minute that was Groucho.
LOL, Janzee…especially the pigeons with telescopes!
You'd definitely need electric retractable solar mesh shades on those windows. They're perfect for providing the desired level of privacy, light, UV filtration, and energy efficiency—and depending on the material chosen, they'll still allow those magical views to filter through, day or night.
I use them in the Phuket condo, when the intense afternoon sun shines against the wall of glass that provides the panoramic ocean view, and they are ideal. Less hot sun, softly filtered light, and forever gorgeous views, all in perfect balance!
Laughing Coop about the pigeions with telescopes. Great idea for a cartoon. Coop, Is the sun as intense in Thailand? I think that your filtration idea, with less wall coverings is what Vern intended. Have you seen any reference to these window coverings or a window that is an all in one system?The other thought I had for privacy, is to instruct, or teach Pavlov style, the pigeons to wear sunglasses. That way they can look all they want and not see a blessed thing in your high sky NY getaway.
Or you could apply those one-way, light-filtering ad graphics to the windows from the inside…you know, like those used on muni bus windows, etc, for advertising. Riders can see out fine, but looking at them from the outside, they appear to be painted on advertising. Hmm, maybe you could even earn some ad revenues that way to pay the monthly valet parking costs for the Acura ZDX.
Maybe the winner could allow the scrolling ad graphics on the windows with the HGTV logo.
HMMM I would think those one-way light-filtering ad graphics done in a "blue sky with clouds" ……would suit me just fine. Still, would need window screens to keep out bugs and birds.
By the way, those pigeons would have to wear their sunglasses on very short chains, or constantly risk losing them as they flutter from window ledge to rooftop. I don't know which would be worse, getting hit on the head by a little pair of falling pigeon sunglasses, or….
And yes, the sun is very intense in Thailand. It's much closer to the Equator than NYC, as I remember things. Phuket is at a latitude of around 8 degrees North, while NYC is about 40 degrees North, so the sun's rays strike the ground at a much more direct angle in Thailand. (Amazing what you can remember despite all efforts of our rapidly "maturing" brain cells to confuse and confound us!)
I wish this site had voice control, so that you could hear the laughter. People often come into my office, and tell me that it's gotta be Coop or EdinOregon. I predict that in the next few months, that surfer statue pointing to the bathroom is going to be pointing to the living room or front door,with your humor I have to run to the washroom. Right now, I yelled out, "duck it's the attack of the pigeons living on the edge."
With your comments about Thailand- I know you must be very close to the country. I am thinking international tonight, as my niece just came home from Bali, and shared some amazing stories about teaching kids in an orphanage English and dance. The trade was more phenomenal as Reny came back and has learned some amazing folk dances and a term whicht ranslates as "how are you" – "singadongbirkendogdingdongunda." The only way my brain could remember the phrase was to imagine a sing a long, wearing birkenstocks, ding dong that I am, while sitting under the table. Talk about brain power, I am surprised I can still remember.
I hope you made it to the wash room in time Janice! That's one long set of letters for how are you!
I am asking my neice for the exact transliteration, so I can text this to the winner of the DH.
Ed: I'm not fond of that chaise and when Vern suggested taking a nap there, I thought not with the bright sunlight streaming in. I have vertigo, but the fabulous views are so far up, I don't think it would bother me. Well, maybe a tad.
I agree with that Katydid. I would feel like I was in therapy lying down on that thing anyway! ^_^
There is a type of cushion that will mold your head and body, and position you just the right way for comfort.
Katydiddle, you'll love the views, when you're there. New York has so much to offer that you'll be out most of the time.
Ed, you are so bad! Binoculars on the psychiatrists couch. It could have been worse.
Right Lessie. It could of had the New Mexico Casita Bathroom by the windows! ^_^
The New Mexico Casita Bathroom is one of my favorites!!!! Glass shower doors are nothing compared to curtainless windows in the bedroom, especially if other high-rise dwellers have binoculars! I'm giving you a two-minute time out for that comparison.
I remember you talking about how much you liked that bathroom. I also remember you couldn't understand why others didn't like the glass walls. ^_^
That's because the view wasn't to the outside world, especially people with binoculars next to their window. Know what I mean?
Yes Ma'am!
I noticed in the rules it says that you can take $850,000 in cash instead of the condo. After reading the rules I am not sure if you can enter once on the main site and once on HGTV frontdoor. I think a strict interpretation would only be one entry per day. Since they are both HGTV sites.
You get two entries per day. One at HGTV.com and one at FrontDoor.com.
Per the rules you can also refuse the car and receive 900,569.00 approx. So they will give you the full value of the car, but not the full ARV of the Condo. If I am the winner you won't hear me complaining. ; )
Love, love, love HGTV, Cami. They really know how to do a give-away!
I guess we cityphobics will have to take the money and run!
I think we need MARY's help, or maybe Super Fan Gail's, getting clarification from the supreme powers-that-be about being able to enter daily on BOTH the HGTV.com's main page as well as on Frontdoor.com (which equals 2 entries per day), AND whether there is an option to take the cash value instead of the Audi ZDX.
Could we have ruling please. I'm SO confused!
you may enter the Home & Garden Television ("HGTV") – HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway? sweepstakes (the "Sweepstakes") in any of the following ways: (i) online, by visiting the HGTV website (www.hgtv.com) (the "HGTV Website") and completing and submitting the online entry form (limit one (1) online entry, per valid email address, per eligible person per day); (ii) online, by visiting the HGTV Front Door website (www.frontdoor.com) (the "HGTV Front Door Website") and completing and submitting the online entry form (limit one (1) online entry, per valid email address, per eligible person per day);
The rules continue on to give a 3rd option (iii) which is mail-ins. The articles I have read (more than one article) state that you can enter at both sites each day.
This is from an HGTV press release-Once the entry period opens on September 1, users can enter once per day via HGTV.com as well as once per day on FrontDoor.com.
Breath-taking view of New York. So New york, New York. I love it. Not sure what I would do with it if I won ————–but It's truly wonderful.
Khaz, I have seen this reaction from alot of folks that have won. I know that with your resourcefulness, you will find the best option,.
This apartment would be perfect for my sister, she is a big city girl & I'm a country girl !!
Which blog is everyone on ???????
Good question gremol.
Too many to choose from- and the HGTV Pro seems to be slow at loading- and you don't have to be registered with Intense Debate- Something seems off.
Hi everybloggie,
Wow ! It may be a little place, but it is well designed nonetheless, the spaces are well defined ! I love the Lions sejant rampant that greet you in the hallway, guarding your place rather like those lovely Foo Dogs ! Also, the diver on the block is a nice artistic touch, very whimsical to be diving towards the commode !! The whole bathroom is a splash of class ! I like it :O) The surveyor's transit is rather handsome, it made me smile, as my daughter explained to me last year, that those are no longer called theodolites :O) I think the white ostrich leather window seating is an absolutely brilliant idea and a boon for party guests to kick back and relax . The shape of the stainless steel occasional tables reminded me of those old English staddle stones that are found in the landscaping of old country estates. ( They used to hold up the tithe barns, to keep them off the ground in medieval days :O) The master bedroom is a calm retreat and the keystone pediments are beautiful examples of stone mason sculpture of a byegone age, I'm so glad they have been saved from the scrap heap ! Someone will be extremely lucky to win this Des. Res. ( desirable residence :O)
Great comment Goldie. It is fascinating to learn what each of us has found interesting in this abode.
I probably missed it——but what floor are we on with this condo?
i think i read somewhere 34
yes the first photo of the exterior pictures it tells you there on the 34 floor.
Thank you
I thought it was on floor 33. I'll go look for the official word. I stand corrected, can't trust news articles.
HGTV Urban Oasis 2010 is a 900-square-foot apartment located on the 34th floor of the W New York-Downtown Hotel and Residences, a 57-floor high-rise tower located at 123 Washington Street in New York City's
Thanks, Cami.
Cami, I did see a news article that stated the Urban Oasis was on the 33rd floor, but I see that the caption in the lead photo on the HGTV Urban Oasis exterior photo gallery says 34th floor. I'd assume the folks at HGTV know which floor their sweepstakes prize is on!
Thanks for picking up on that discrepancy. I'd hate to go ringing the doorbell on the wrong unit during my upcoming visit.
I have to admit DBCoop, you and Cami have just given "new meaning" to the first line of Tony Orlando's song lyrics——-"Knock three times—-Hey girl, watcha doin' down there?" ha
The way things are moving along among all of the multiple blogs these days, with MARY hitting us with a strong right, a left, then another sharp right jab, it's beginning to feel like the lyrics from Bobby Darin's song 'Splish Splash'—"How was I to know there was a party going on?"
I don't mean to be snarky (okay, maybe a little), but why all the "old people" candy in the hallway? Giant jars of Butterscotch, Mary Janes and Peppermints are only appealing to people over a certain age, when their tastebuds have deteriora… uh, "matured." Is this hinting at their target market?
I personally wanted all Lindt Truffles.
Where is my chocolate lovin soul sister Linda Woodrum when you need her. Maybe Linda can sneak in and add giant vases of chocolate.
Linda I'm counting on you. ; )
Ooh, Cami! You read my mind!
May not have a chance in hell for chocolate this time. New designer.
If the air conditioner isn't always on …. chocolate might melt.
Is that why no chocolate? Besides it has a habit of disappearing around people! LOL
Personally, I would keep the Lindt Lindor Chocolate Truffles well hidden away from the covetous eyes of casual guests or housekeepers. However, they would definitely be brought out, shared and savored with special friends and family, or fellow bloggers dropping by for a visit.
I don't even know what a Mary Jane is, and I'm one of the "old people"! LOL!
Hi CplusE Being's that I'm one of the "Elders" too——Let's see now—–how—-far far-far–back can I remember. Well—-I think—–I have several pair of Mary Janes in my s-h-o-e -s closet——but for the life of me I can't remember any Mary Jane candy either. But I do remember Gum Drops, Jelly Beans, and Sugar Daddys. LOL
I bought a small bag of Mary Janes just the other week. Was vacationing at a fancy resort town.
An "old people" with taste, apparently. Just for fun, try to give a kid a Mary Jane candy sometime. You'll see them light up with excitement over getting candy, but as soon as they pop it in their mouth and realize there's almost no flavor, you'll see their expression change to soul-crushing disappointment.
Shecreature, you really have it in for Mary Jane's. Gonna go out and buy some just to see how "flavorless" they are.
These might be 'sophisicated' candies- not 'old people' per se. Probably came from Ralph Laurens daughters candy store. Sophisication is sometimes a matter of class.
I would go with traditional which fits the hallway theme of the NYC library.
Really enjoyed the virtual tour of this NYC pad. There's a lot to like.
I also learned that candy is age specific. Now that's an interesting theory!
Reminds me of the following thought that a well-respected and very wise old man once shared with me, and which in my many years I've found to generally be true: with age comes experience. With experience comes knowledge. With knowledge comes wisdom. And with wisdom comes the ability to make reasonable choices, especially when it comes to candy. Pass the butterscotch, please….
When my kids were younger, every Halloween they would separate out their loot into what they wanted to keep, what they wanted to trade, and then what they wanted to throw away. And every year, the butterscotches, mary janes and peppermints were relegated to the trash, a.k.a. me… except for the mary janes. Even I wouldn't eat those. HerbalT describes them very accurately below.
I may be the only person on earth that actually reaped the benefits of my siblings distaste for MaryJanes – I loved them! I can't eat them anymore, but I didn't even need to trade for them when I was a kid at Halloween – they were freely given away! I snagged those and the peanut butter kisses (I had strange tastes as a kid – still do, I guess!) whenever I had a chance. I did pitch the peppermints, though – still don't like those! A co-worker just brought me a candy bouquet of Reese's as a going away present today – I leave tomorrow to start a new job next week – still love that peanut butter!
If forced to make a difficult decision on the three candy choice limit, and keeping in mind the need for those designer pops of color while still appealing to a wide range of nutritional needs (including those with an insatiable sweet tooth) I'd opt for dark chocolate M&M's, cool white yogurt-covered peanuts, and a refreshing fruit and berry trail mix. Any or all of the above would keep me sufficiently energized for those last-minute, on-the-streets of NYC adventures.
Now the question remains, will our discussion about candy choices sway Vern Yip's future selection of sweet sensations—or simply create more delicious design dilemmas?
How about some of my mother's all time favorites – Jordan Almonds, Nonpareils, and Ribbon Candy? She kept those highly colorful tidbits in jars for as long as I can remember….I think her mother did the same. Something to be said for family tradition. And why edible items at all? I think someone made the comment elsewhere in the blog that the space lacked greenery – so how about a terrarium or some air plants? Orchids?
Ouch, that was snarky. I usually feel pretty good about trying to age gracefully, but I am stung by your comments.
Why is it that when furniture, and art gets old, it's considered to be valuable antiques? But society denies people the same respect when they are develop the "patina" of age.
Right Anne. And to make matters worse instead of patina they call it liver spots! ^_^
We "mature" people are still in the race, still contenders, just a little wiser, and closer to the finish line.
We'll just think of ourselves as fine antique people, and our wrinkles and silver hair are part of our "patina". Just let me wear my rose colored glasses, and I'll finish the race happy.
Nature reveals a lot of life's secrets near the end of the race, that beginners are not privy to. We'd be happy to share them if the young respected us enough to listen.
It was all meant to be in good natured jest. I realize most of the bloggers here are over 50 and I'm actually middle-aged myself. This was more about how you'll never find anyone under 30 who likes those candies, especially those mary janes. They're really quite awful… meant to taste like peanut butter, but really taste more like slightly sweetened cardboard. When kids get them for Halloween, they always end up in the trash, which is probably for the best, because they'll break your teeth if you try to bite into them. Now butterscotch and peppermint, those still have redeeming qualities to me, but admittedly they've grown on me more over time.
What??? You're all over 50. You all seem so young to me…
Remember your only as old as you feel. You can be 30 and feel 60, and be 60 and feel 30.
As for the candies aren't they sitting by an antique? So they're antique. Plus if they were yummy chocolate they would quickly disappear. Vern so wisely decided if he wanted his pretty candy to be a part of the design, instead of someones hips, he better choose the type people aren't usually tempted to have. Although I would be tempted to take a few peppermints for my purse candy stash.
Ah ha! I never considered the candy choice as a strategy to keep the jar from being emptied. Now the mary janes make total sense! Cami, always the voice of wisdom
I see a link. They have a protective wrapping and will not spoil fast. May not melt.
Those yummy white coated Jordan almonds might have looked great. But alas, they are not wrapped.
That is so true Cami, so true, last week I felt like a Vibrant 30 year old and this week an antique 60……LOL but, tonight I had my chocolate fix and I'm feeling pretty spry again….coop is so right, those chocolate M&M's are so energizing….hehe
MaryJanes are break-your-teeth peanut butter chews, FYI, and actually, why any candy at all? If their current market is hip & trendy, healthy organic stuff would be more appropriate, eh? Why food at all? I think they were just looking for something colorful to fill the jars – designer trick. They should probably re-think that….
Or maybe something a little more eye-catching, perhaps. But I agree… the candy didn't seem necessary there at all.
I am sure colorful carrots and radishes would look excellent in the decor. Can you imagine the colorful changes in their appearance over time? ^_^
That reminds me, I need to clean out my vegetable bin.
Guys: Why not replace the candy with three little fishies swimmin' in the jar. One black, one white and….. is there a red goldfish? We won't call them pets, just decor.
I love those pretty fighting fish. They hardly need any maintenance at all if they have a plant living with them
Just don't put two of those male Siamese Fighting Fish in the same jar!
I can see 3 siamese fighting fish in those jars with a water loving plant.
Do you think that there would be too much room in those jars? I always hate it when they coop them up in a tiny little bowl.
I'd hate it too if I was cooped up in a tiny little bowl—plant or no plant. However, the Urban Oasis would be just the perfect single serving Coop size, and I could pop out onto the streets of NYC anytime of day or night.
Which way to the Urban Oasis Express, please?
When you said "pop out" it made me wonder if those windows open. Would you want to open them? Is there any clean air up there?
No I wasn't suggesting you pop out the window. Hang glider might be fun though. I wonder if there is roof access.
I don't know…do New Yorkers have windows in high-rise buildings that open? Would they want them to, as you say? Probably not, for a number of reasons, safety being the paramount one, both for the resident AND those walking below!
I wouldn't suggest hang gliding either. Just too many high obstacles to get around, Cami. Leave that kind of stuff to the likes of Spiderman, or Superman for that matter, who can leap tall buildings in a single bound.
There is, by the way, a residents only rooftop terrace. Can you imagine the sunset views from atop what I think would be the 57th floor?
Cami, that's not a great idea to me. Have two of those fish above my desk at work and they're a hassle, especially if you have to clean their bowls. I like Vern's idea of candy. Someone will eat it, even the Mary Jane's.
They may be a hassle but they sure are purty.
Do you have a plant living with them to help clean the water?
Yes, they are beautiful, Cami BUT they aren't the cleanest fish. No, there's no plant in either bowl. The fish are not mine. I'm an extra or fill-in when people need to be away. Would you believe I got the job of cleaning and caring for the fish while my co-worker recoops from surgery?
Those fish are lucky. The only fish I clean are the ones I eat afterwards. All you animal lovers, you're welcome to come and clean and feed these fish. I'd rather be catching the sights and sounds of New York.
I seem to recall Vern using Siamese fighting fish (aka bettas) on an old Trading Spaces episode — he hung three fish bowls from the ceiling in someone's living room. I think it was a beach-themed room in blue and sand color — the fish bowls looked nice but I would have tired of reaching up to feed every day, and getting them down to clean periodically.
Also, I've had those fish (and have one now) and while they don't need a well-aerated bowl they are sensitive to cold so your room would have to be on the warm side. Of course, most people keep their homes warmer than I do in the winter (I prefer temps in the mid-60s) so maybe that is not normally a problem!
CplusE: So Vern used that idea before. Wish I had seen that beach-themed room. Looks like the bettas are beating the goldfish 2 to 1. My dentist's receptionist had one on her ledge living under a plant. Couldn't stand looking at it when the water got murky.
OK, what else could replace that candy (that nobody would eat, that's the point). Marbles, sand glass, or Bonsai plants? Not candles, he's got them in other places. Love dreaming about this Urban Oasis.
— On Sat, 8/14/10, IntenseDebate Notifications <notifications@intensedebatemail.com> wrote:
Am I in an age group if I DON'T like bitter chocolate?
(I know that ancient Monks discovered the recipe for bitter chocolate.)
I like a strawberry dipped in sweet milk chocolate.
Theshecreature…"old people candy?" I'm still laughing. You should be ashamed of yourself. "Deteriorating tastebuds?" Too funny! I definitely don't think the target market is the older set because New York is ALIVE and full of activity! Old people move away from New York. Only the young at heart are there.
Shecreature, wanted you to know I ate a Mary Jane tonight. My co-worker gave it to me. It doesn't compare to CHOCOLATE, but some people like them. Give them Mary Janes but give me CHOCOLATE!
"On a clear day, rise and look around you…You can see forever". Wasn't it Frank Sinatra, that sang this song? It is so apropos for the New York Oasis Dream pad. I love it, and now there is more opportunities to be in three places at once to win the home of your dreams. There is a crystal elegance in the view over the river, the art work which combines classic, East Asian, sort of ecclectic I would say. The flooring, I know without a shadow of a doub,t is recycled through and through. And, as Jack has his hand in this, the Gold standard emerges it's lion head again, and "green" is the moniker. The chandelier is a great touch over invisible chairs. I call them invisible because you can see through them, and they sparkle like a diamond on someone's finger. It's all about light and is very open. Living in this place, and being part of the city, you could talk and walk like a New Yorker again, feel the pride, and the machzi, and the spirit, and fall helplessly in love, Audrey Heburn style with this condo. Who wouldn't. HGTV I am proud of you. .Tonight, I was in Vegas and went into Fresh and Easy, and one of the girls told me I look happier than I have looked in a long time. I told all of them about HGTV, and the wonderful surprises on the blog amongst us bloggamadillas, and the never ending treasure treats that Jack, Mary and the gang at HGTV offer to us as a community and the country.
I thought Barbara Streisand sang it.
Lyrics to On A Clear Day, by Tony Bennett
On a clear day,
Rise and look around you,
And you'll see who you are.
On a clear day,
How it will astound you
That the glow of your feelings outshines every star.
You will follow every mountain,
Sea and shore,
You will see from far and near a world you've never seen before.
On a clear day,
On a clear day,
You can see forever,
And ever, and ever more.
She sings it as only Barbara can. From our vantage point, we can see all the way over to Stowe for the building of the 2011 DH>
I think it was Tony Bennett. Anyway thats the version I like.
I heard him sing it, what a voice!!!!!
Postscipt, yes Tony wrote the lyrics, Frank and Barbara sang it.
Janzee, I enjoyed reading your description of the condo this morning and even more the second
time around this afternoon!
I think HGTV needs to hire you Janice. It seems like you are wearing their billboard wherever you venture!
Eddie, as ususal ,you are the first person I am finally able to get back to after a month on the site. thank you for that compliment. I think it would be fun to be on the inside of the inner workings of HGTV and first hand see all of the new developments. At this moment, with all of the blogging it's a cross between "East Side West Side", and whose on first, maybe even, "whodunnit".
Maybe I should have said sandwich board. I can picture you walking around with your HGTV Sandwich Board on. East Side West Side, Are you Maria now Gracie? ^_^
"Peanuts, popcorn, sandwiches, candy coated snacks, a New York dream pad for the asking, a Vermont hideaway in the trees… and now my friends a little Salsa and Tengo, dancing down the streets of NY" This said, just like the old forties radio announcers. Georgie you can call me Gracie or Maria, but keep those sandwich and story boards coming in.
You can coninue amusing me too Janice.
Janzee I think it was Robert Goulet, perhaps from the show "Camelot".
Anne: In "Camelot" Robert Goulet sang "If Ever I Would Leave You". Beautifully, too.
Hello Janzee, I 've been reading and reading trying to get caught up on the blogs this morning . Then I came to yours. and I thought , What a wonderful , Feel Good Comment , to get your day started with. Thank you for all of your up-lifting comments , and the positive spirit you bring to us, and HGTV. You, as well as so many of our bloggers are a Treasure . I enjoy being a part of this HGTV family very much. I can't think of a better way to unwind and just enjoy being with such respectful and kind, loving people…Humm, What have we done here ? Maybe , we should all do what you did and spread the HGTV News, the Whole World needs to Stop watching the Sad Evening News, and come be a part of the happy moments we share *AliB
Dear AliB, I thank you huumbly for your beautiful comments to me, and all of us. The site, has actually changed my direction for the better. I feel the same, when I read your comments, and every person on the site. I have even gotten a charge out of the "invaders", and felt they needed to express themselves,although a little misguided perhaps. The good feelings I have here, are a reflection of all of our positive thoughts, dreams, philosophies, debates- the good times and the hard times. We would agree, that we have become more than entries in the HGTV network-we've become friends ,and the love and support for each other is large. What you said is paramount, about the sad stuff on tv, and turning to a more "feel good", and proactive direction. Just by coming to this site, I think is a plus sign to building an intelligent high thinking fun and adventurous community.
Dear AliB, after I hung up the phone with you, I was feeling so elated, and decided to come back for a little humor. I don't want to diffuse what I just said, but wanted to reveal a naughty side, and the NY humor from the old days. New Yorkers- I don't know where it comes from, maybe the Brooklyn Bridge, have a way of finding the quirky side, right of center part of a compliment. If you gave my grandpa a compliment like you gave me/us, he would say "So hire me already" As we know each other in the future, you'll see that little dry humor character emerge once in awhile. Love Janice
Good Morning, all. I am a building dynamo,but finding out where everyone goes with so many new blogsites is a different story!!
:):) I'm LOST!!!
Yes, i know what you mean. It is crazy.
Hi JWmson It is a tad zooish lately isn't it? Hope things are fine with you and family. LOL
Too many blogs puzzle the bloggers!
We still want new photos of DH 2011.
I am with you on that one OmahaLady.
Well people used to complain about blog topics being up for too long. I am not hearing that complaint anymore! ^_^
It is such a beautiful view.
My favorite elements are the keystone pediments and the pedestals in the bedroom. Absolutely brilliant! Was a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. I wish someone would make casting from the pediments and reproduce them.
Glad things are looking better for the gulf. Maybe the news coverage of his vacation will bring back the vacationers.
In my opinion, it would have been better if they had gone sooner, before Maine, and Spain!
I am sure the trip is political. The only reason they are going to the gulf is the uproar over the
Spain trip, when so many are hurting in the USA. Definitely reminds me of the pre French revolution royalty attitude.
I'm intrigued with the need to downsize if you lived in this beautiful space in NYC. I get so used to our "wide open spaces", and our stuff is really spread out, but not often used. Everything would need to be multifunctional and have purpose. Interesting.
Hi Wyo Girl I downsized several years ago. Initially—-it was sooo difficult. Then I got carried away—tossed or gave away umteen boxes of "stuff"—including the majority of my library of books. Instead of 25 of each thing I now have one or two. I now feel that I "own" my home and things versus the other way around. But I could never give up having access to the "wide-open spaces". I love the desert. The New Mexico DH I could have lived in forever. LOL
My thought MeKhazSimi is that you can have it all- why not. Wouldn't it be the best of all wolds in a scaled down home, to be able to hop on a plane, or drive to your DH in the mountains. Let's see how far is Stowe from NY city? Maybe a six hour drive, I think at the max.
Yesterday I found an oak side table with a mosaic top at an attic sale for a very low price.
Now it's sitting in my dining room until I figure out where it will go and serve a purpose
other than the fact that I just like looking at it! I really like the way this condo makes use
of the small space with multi-functional areas. I think downsizing is a great concept.
Now I just need to take it a step further from words to action. I think the trick must be
combining functional and visual aspects. Vern Yip has the talent to do this!
This is so true Deerspring. I must have three of the same mosaic tables that I got from Pier 1, and in the last three places I've lived, had to shlep them, cause they are heavy, and for no other reason than they are interesting. The hardest thing to exfoliate is papers for me. I have finally developed a system for housing scripts, bills, ideas, articles, and a whole host of things, but it has taken years. Yes Vern has quite a knack-I can only imagine how many designers had to pass the test before getting the good seal.
I absolutely love this apartment/condo! The desigers did a fantastic job of using every space and created a beautiful, relaxing, fun place to "nest". I am also intrigued with the idea of downsizing and making our lives simple! I could easily let go of every piece of furniture except for my grandfather clock and my mothers wood rocker! To be near some of the best physicians in the country would be wonderful! Perhaps they would find something to cure my husbands Multiple Myeloma? I would be so excited to live in this beautiful condo! Thank you so much HGTV!
I think this is a 1 person apartment. I could not imagine a couple being able to survive long in so little space.
Omaha: Well maybe if one worked days and the other worked nights. hehe. Guess you don't know NYC very well. Couples have been able to survive there in little space forever. Sure, I think Vern Yip designed it as a bachelor/ette pad. But the master bedroom sleeps two and a quest in that fabulous sofa sleeps one. Oh well, depends on the people, I guess.
Why yes I do know NYC fairly well. I do know that I am spoiled with space- heck it would take 900 square feet for my library, office, closet space!
Omaha: Oh, lucky Lady. Then you would just have to live where you are and use the Urban Oasis as a luxury hotel suite when you visit NYC. Can I sleep on the couch when I visit the Big Apple?
— On Sun, 8/22/10, IntenseDebate Notifications <notifications@intensedebatemail.com> wrote:
OmahaLady, I can see a couple living in this condo without a problem. But if the couple is dysfunctional or no longer wants to be together, living here would definitely be a problem. Believe it or not, I can see entertaining some friends here too.
The best gathering would probably be a ladies night out. Seeing the sights of New York, eating out, and then coming back to the condo with chocolate treats, talking trash, remembering when, listening to great music, and laughing our way down the soul train line.
I think that this place is done beautifully with the space that they have…love the dark woods and the view. I can say that I am glad that this wasn't listed as the Dream Home option for the year as I for one love looking at the big beautiful dream homes. I do love the little space saving tucked away ideas that we see in the NYC condo.
Since this is THE Urban Oasis Virtual Tour thread, I'm doing a bit of a repost off of the Urban Oasis blog, so bear with me: these are a few of the design elements that stood out for me…one blogger's opinions.
Entry Hall: the custom made bases for the lions with slots to slide in the bases of the floor lamps—brilliant both for form and function.
Kitchen: the stainless steel tile backsplash—it's a seemingly bold use of material, and yet adds just the right highlights for a seamless transition of pattern and shading to the adjoining kitchen surfaces—gorgeous.
Living Room: love those two "made to be modern" recycled aluminum side tables—they add shimmer, shape, and practicality—along with the beautiful Italian-made sofa of course.
Bedroom: so many choices, but the pair of 6' tall pedestals that flank the bed are ingeniously creative. Add in Vern's custom-designed paneling and it's a match made in design heaven. I just can't forget to mention those circa 1916 Keystone pediments—divine inspiration.
Bathroom: Along with the unique hatbox style Kohler tankless loo I've mentioned earlier, I have to put in some good words for the extraordinary choice of the taupe gray marble tiles placed in that delicious herringbone pattern—for a totally clean, stylish, luxurious, and inviting look throughout the bath—bravo!
Throughout: the artwork of course—absolutely spot-on choices for interest, character, and placement.
Would I change anything? Because of my interest in Thailand and its culture, yes…but just the bedding. I'd look for a contemporary, Asian influenced, cotton/linen bedding ensemble—sleek and highly tailored—in a white pearl/oyster matte metallic with straightline-edged burnt orange accents on the comforter and shams.
In the living room, to pick up a tad more useful storage space, I'd think about moving the driftwood mirror out from under the chrome and glass console table to make room for a couple of low woven/wicker baskets in a bleached driftwood stain (to maintain that earthy tone and organic feel that Vern rightly sought to capture.)
Two minor design changes in a fully furnished 900 square foot Urban Oasis in order to personalize the space to my taste—now that's amazing. Which only goes to show that when it comes to adding the coolest design polish to this posh pad, you're the man, Vern.
Hi Janzee There's something about NYC that draws you in, envelops you in a special aura, when you're there. The first time I ever visited NY—I remember getting up before dawn and walking down Broadway—-it was amazing how quiet the city was at that hour of the morning. I walked for hours and just let myself feel the city wake up, yawn, and come alive. continued—-
Hi Me,
I just wanted to check back with you and give you some info about film contests. Check out withoutabox.com, and the Champion Screenwriting Competition. Also look at some of these family film sites which can be seen on the withoutabox site. 1. International Family Film Festival 2. Beverly Hills Film Festival 3. Kids First Film. 4. Femals Eye Film Fest 5. California Independent Film Festival 6. New Hampshire Film Festival 7, HP Lovecraft Film Festival. If this is Hewlett Packard, EdinOregon would like this one 8. La Femme Writers Place Screenwriting Contest. Most of these contests accept scripts. Good luck with all of your writing
Later that afternoon, wind blowing, snow flurries and all, I walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, with all it's thunderous noise. On the other side, I walked into a tiny, nondescript, restaurant and ordered the bowl of stew-of-the-day which came with a huge chunk of warm home-made sourdough bread. It was wonderful. And on the walk back across the bridge and onto the streets crowded with time-crunching pedestrians from all nations, all nationalities, all walks of life, all focused on their unique version of their life's-mission-of the day—-I thought –how awesome is this—-within one block—-I'm thinking about stew and bread, that person is hoping his Wall street stock quote was correct, that person is hoping she doesn't screw up her first opportunity at a lead role tonight, that person hopes he can find a job and bring his family here soon, that couple wishes they'd brought the map with them, those kids eyes are so full of dreams. Yes NY is magical. Thanks for the memory as they say. LOL
Thanks for the walk, and Sweet Dreams of Midnight at the Oasis—in the city that never sleeps. Or, alternatively, as some might suggest, Blame It On Midnight.
You're welcome.
It says it all in those songs, doesn't it?
Khaz I just reread your post, and I feel like I opened the first page of a delicious novel that you cant wait to envelop the next page You are better than Nora Roberts. I lingered over every word. P.S. I am going to make a copy of some of the film festivals I've found. Thought you may be interested in entering some of them.
Wow!!!!! Ego and I had coffee on the terrace this morning. We had a great discussion about apples and oranges. Ego stomped off in a huff! Humble is totally inadequate, but I'm humbled and touched by your beautiful compliment. Thank you
Hi love. I heard Ego and Humble got married and now their list name is Humigo, sounds like Amigo. They ran off leaving their fruit bowl. No question, your writing is loverly. I will copy those festivals, this afternoon as soon as I come back.
wish I had your great imagination. are you a writer?
Even though I am not a City person, I can't help but admire how beautifully done this NY Oasis is! I am amazed at how big this small area feels.
The views are breathtaking, and from corner to corner it is functionally, and tastefully furnished.
Instead of just dismissing City Life, this place has me reconsidering the possibilities.
It's minimalist design is forcing me to do a mental inventory of my possesions, and think about whether my collected possessions are indeed treasure, or merely stuff.
Everything needed to live comfortably is already there, the question for me, is could I part with all my stuff if had the opportunity to live there? It is not an answer I can easily come up with.
AnneEliseSouth, if the decision is too difficult, choose the path of least resistance. Take the money instead and enjoy!
Dearest Khaz, I hope that you publish your thoughts about NY, as for anyone who has lived or visited there, and allowed the magic, your words seep in,, and sweep you away. Thank you for sharing these very private vivid experiences. How remarkable that on any given street corner, you could feel the pulse of NY, and yet stay very grounded in your own observations. Beautiful comment!!!!!!! Excellent writing!!!!1
Hi Janzee, Thank you for your warm, kind words. There are simply times when the experience of experiencing "humanity" touches the soul —-and NYC was one of those for me.
You, my dear—-are very talented, I can tell, and your musical personality brings so many smiles to so many bloggers on this site—-we all hope you keep posting for a very long time. LOL
Dearest Khaz, I sooo enjoyed watching you watching this experience. I will go back to read it tonight, and revel in the pleasure. Reading you was better than the book Simple Abundance. I thank you humbly for your comment, and went from laughing till I doubled over with Coop, and within minutes read your comment to me, and began to cry.
You poor thing. You better get away from this blog, before you turn into an emotional wreck! ^_^
I love it, it's such a catharsis. In acting classes that I have taught to kids, you stand around a circle and begin to laugh on notes as low as you can go, keep going, and you can build up to a good belly laugh on cue. Same thing can be done with a cry. Betty Davis could do this I think, and would ask " which eye".
Vern Yip was ingenious in his use of the small space in the NYC Oasis. Love the floor lamp feet in the hallway being able to fit into the pedestals and the hidden wiring in the desk/table through the legs. Love the variety of the art. I'm sure the driftwood mirror is quite unique but I don't think it fits its location. In fact, I find that corner with the chaise quite cold and somehow out of scale. I would love to see something tall and green growing there. There are services that provide and tend to plants. The views are spectacular. Thanks HGTV for providing us with another exciting sweepstakes.
It would be totally amazing to have a place to stay in NYC!! If you have ever been there you would know….there is NO place like it and there is anything you could want to do and any type of food you could imagine! Love it.
Hi 1naturelove2, soo glad to see you. I couldn't agree with you more. I am certain that this opportunity for HGTV will open up a myriad of city dwellings, possibilities for rehabs and perhaps, as has been said before, maybe some international homes or flats. I feel good knowing that the country living homes are imminent, and that the city thing will open up another realm for HGTV. The math is where it's at, Green home, city Oasis, and DH=more viewers and more opportunities for one of us to win.
Gorgeous. I would love to get away in this urban oasis.
Psst! Back to the Dream Home… more videos on the HGTVpro site! A new 2-part video blog is up, this time we get a walk-thru of the space and flow! Go to this link and the first part will play, followed by the second part.
http://blog.hgtvpro.com/dream-home/2010/08/13/flo…
Thanks for another great link, theshecreature! The second video explains Cami's long-ago question about why it looked like they were nailing bark shingles to a horizontal surface — they were, but it was only horizontal temporarily! I can't wait to see the finished home — it keeps looking better and better!
Yep that makes perfect sense. Work smarter, not harder.
You're welcome! I noticed that in the first video about the "flow," the narrator says that the ski dorm "sleeps up to eight people." I wonder if they expanded it to 12-16 since the video was edited, or if they reduced it since the original plans?
I think they revised it. It used to say the dorm would sleep 12-16. I see now its the entire house. Those have to be narrow beds.
That was pretty amazing. I couldn't hear anything, but I could feel their muscles working. Now I'm all tired out. I would like to put some sun screen on some of those builders. Not for unholy reasons mind you, I just don't like to see someone burn to a crisp. They might have to change their name to the Crispmill builders.
shecreature: Thanks for the link. Love the small window for the upper bunks. Still think the dorm sleeps eight. Two in the master and guest makes 12. How to account for the other 4? Maybe convertible sofas? Murphy beds? I had already noticed the two entrances and the flow into the other areas. I do have a concern about closet space. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this Dream Home.
Ooooh, back to the amazing Urban Oasis.
Yeah, it sure does. And those other roof lines are already each high enough to contain another story as it is!
gremol, I am sorry to hear about your back. I have been there done that. I hope that the injections help you, and that you will have relief. There is a type of chiropractic that I have had where the dr. literally peels the muscle away from the bone. It is not painful, and feels like someone snapping their fingers. I wonder if this type of technique could help you so that you would not have to take as many shots. Remind me again where you live. From your observation, do you feel that the oil spill has affected your area, or the wildlife.
That sounds like the deep tissue massage my chiropractor used to do on me. I am glad those days are over with!
I would put it in the category of deep tissue, but the technique does not stay on one spot,it's more of a rolling and kneading away from bone. The idea is to stimulate the muscles and bring blood flow back so that spasm is relieved.
I live in Panama City, Florida; it's in the panhandle, about midways between Tallahassee & Pensacola. We had a few tar balls wash up on small parts of the beach, but they were quickly cleaned up. We haven't had any real problems from the spill except for a lot of folks fearing to come down here thereby hurting the tourism that our city depends on. It's put a lot of people out of work–charter fishing, restaurants, hotels & all the beach businesses have suffered; I think a lot has to do with over sensationalizing by the media.
I used to live in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and visited Panama City once in awhile. I am inclined to think these days, you can get more factual info from citizen's networks than on the national media. I do like Giraldo, and went to school with him in Tucson. He is willing to go anywhere in the world to find a story. These days, I find myself briskly walking out of the room, after getting the gist. I much prefer to sort through what I read on the internet, newspaper or magazines and grab onto what can be changed. I'm thankful that you were not deeply affected by the spill, and hope and pray that the tourism gets the spunk back in Panama City. P.S. on your back issue, there is a type of floatation device, like a girdle that you can just floaty floaty in. After you get your shots, maybe you should check into spending some time in the healing salt water.
My injections for my back are called Radio-Frequency Facet Joint Ablation; I'll have 2 series of them after having diagnostic medial branch injections; Dr. says these should really help the pain in my back, hips, & legs, I sure hope so, as I'll be off my feet for a few days.
Dear gremol, I hope you have relief after the first series of shots and are pain free. Even short term relief is a blessing. From what I read, the shots can help folks sometimes immediately, with other people it takes a bit longer. Are you looking into supplementation as well? Look into Dr. Vanessa's collagen I,II, III. You can find this product on line- I have taken it for a couple of years and have benefited. The product called Bone Up is also helpful, as well as a liquid cal, mag and zinz combo, and Dr. Carlson's cod liver oil. You know the whole routine about inflamation and foods and sweets to steer clear from. It's been a learning experience for me. I pray for your healing, and go easy with yourself. Love, Janzee
Thanks very much for the info, the more I know….the more I know !!!
Good one gremol. I think it's collagen that the joints so desperately needed. Seems like digestive situations go hand in hand with joints, so as you are healing, digestion circulation the bones and joints, nerves and muscles thank you. Please check into wheat grass and the Ann Wigmore story.
Will do !
You will see an amazing difference if you can handle a wheat grass shot once a day. If you get into this you can grow your own wheat grass-very easy to do, and then use a tiny wheat grass juicer to make your own. Tell me if you try it, and it begins to work. The grass was used during WWII when blood supplies were diminished for transfusions, as the juice has the closest composition to blood with a sllight deviation in one molecule.
We are all in question, and it would be great to have our guy there with us. It could be a great single pad, or young couple domain. I saw the movie also HerbalT, and could see a third as well. Doesn't make you feel like you are right there with Sarah and the girls, on some of their mishap and stylishly New York girl adventures.
I loved the tour. It makes NY seem almost doable, we almost. It is a beautiful condo. I still don't think I could do the city though. But who knows, lol.
I'm strongly considering making a quick stopover in NYC on the way to my Turkey vacation next month, and I'm just wondering, MARY, any chance I could get Vern Yip to give me an in-person tour of the Urban Oasis? Although I'll understand if he's tied up with filming for his Urban Oasis series.
I'll come loaded with questions, which I'll have to rely on fellow bloggers to supply. Or, failing that, I'll just have to come up with a list of my very own. After all, they say that if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere….
Coop, you travel so much, what is your job?? Just curious !!
My job? I've been asking that myself for years now. Actually, I Iearned some time ago that I had bigger fish to fry and faster planes to fly than to spend my waning years laboring in the fields of finance, among other ventures, and so I hit the streets and the world scene early in life.
I guess my motto has always been "to dream the impossible dream…"
So you're really going to Turkey? I thought you were talking about your trip to Thailand around Turkey time (Thanksgiving).
You can't just spring these trips on us at the last moment Coop, we need more time to prepare. We must keep the blog going, we will have to find a replacement Coop while you're gone. I'm not witty enough to be a Coop, so……..Ok I looked at the list, and I just don't know who has the time… Oh Ed you are gonna have to step it up a notch while Coop is gone. Unless of course Coop won't be too far off the grid to blog for himself.
Sorry Cami Coop is in a league of his own. He has to keep traveling to stay ahead of the FBI. I don't think he jumps out of planes anymore. He is older now and waits for them to land. ^_^
Actually, I don't jump out of much of anything these days, Ed, not even bed in the mornings, unless I've got an early flight to catch, or I'm expecting MARY to post some new floorplans, a new video, or another of her infamous location clues. Of course, some piping hot pancakes with melted butter, warm Vermont maple syrup, and a fresh blueberry or strawberry topping gets me moving out to the kitchen real quick!
Now that you point it out, Cami, you're right. I should be doing the Turkey trip in November, around Thanksgiving, and the Thailand trip in September. Oh well, I got things a little turned around—but weatherwise, it's much better to be in Turkey in September when it's not so hot (and not yet really cold) and in Thailand in November, when the summer rains have begun to subside.
And you're plenty witty enough to be a Cami, besides being charming and entertaining to boot. (and I don't mean as in the Wild West kind of shoes, either. I had to throw that in, just because I can.)
Aha, I caught that. How did you get away with writing shoes?
I caught that. Directly above your post you couldn't write shoe-s, and now you can, but I still can't. Did the principal give you an executive hall pass to wear as many shoe-s as you want all year. What gives? This isn't the Urban Oasis blog, this is the Dream Home blog. They still don't allow a whole pair of shoe-s here.
What's the scoop Coop? Did you make a shady deal on the side? Perhaps in the Alley beside the Urban Oasis building? Can you cut me in on the deal? Are these shoe-s knockoffs or the real deal?
Hah, I think it must have been a temporary but serious technical glitch that allowed me to sneak into the building with shoe-s on! However, security has been restored to full power in the blog, and anyone who dares to appear online with more than one shoe will be punished as per blog rules. Or perhaps the principal felt I'd duly served my time, and released me and my shoe's from detention. For whatever reason, I am truly grateful.
Now my claim to fame in years to come will be that indeed, I dared to bring shoe-s into the Dream Home blog, and I'm going to print that comment to keep as proof.
You know what this means? You're the only one with a matching pair of shoe-s. The rest of us can only collect one shoe at a time. We would be lucky if we didn't end up with two left feet….. I mean shoe-s.
If Coop can do it then I am going to take my shoes, out and go for a long walk too!! ^_^
I think blogging from Turkey will be a real challenge. I'm sure there'll be little opportunity to do so. I'll have better luck in Thailand come November. Either way, just when you least expect it, up will pop a comment from Coop, sent on from who knows where! But hey, that's not for several more weeks, and I've got time to get in a few more comments before leaving my post, so to speak. When the time comes, I promise I will do my best to get that NYC visit in, and report any significant findings without delay. Until then, blog on!
PS: I put in the word "shoe-s", without the dash, in my previous comment, and it got booted right to the principal's office. I guess shoe-s are still not permitted in the Dream Home, but perfectly acceptable in the Urban Oasis. Go figure!
Do I envy you!! Hubby & I would like to buy a new motorhome & just travel this Country we live in (in our waning years). We have just spent our 41 years together taking care of our Family. We can always still dream !! Maybe one day !
And I hope your "one day" comes soon, gremol. After 41 years of providing for your family, giving back to yourselves is only fair.
Coop: I hope gremol didn't shock you too much by mentioning a "job". Obviously you were born with money and used your brains to increase that to a sizable fortune. Your quest is not impossible. In spite of your travels you will continue to delight us on all the HGTV blogs. I love that you have kept your humble abode in San Diego. OK, half of this is a joke, but how many languages do you speak?
A sizeable fortune? That's always open to interpretation, but in any event I'm doing my best to whittle it down while I still have the energy and desire to comfortably do so!
Really, no big thing on the languages, Katydiddle. I speak a few more than the average American, and probably less than most Europeans. Just luck of the draw and a bit of work.
As for the blogs, I'm just one of the many here. It's a pleasure to enjoy all of the great minds, wit, and wisdom that is shared by all. Plus, admittedly, it's fun, and there's that added bonus of being able to win great prizes, including some remarkably well thought out, superbly crafted, and perfectly located Dream Homes. It seems to work for HGTV, and it works for all of us dreamers out here in dreamland. Don't you just love those win-win situations?! I bet even MARY has a good time with it all, especially when she gets to dole out those devious location clues that drive us crazy and wear us down to blithering bloggers. Now, on with the show!
it definitely pays to make intelligent investements in one's younger years. Enjoy the dream Coop.
Coop, just tell Vern to leave the key under the doormat if he's busy that day, we'll vouch for you!:):):)
Thank you, AnneEliseSouth…of course, a quite simple but quite brilliant solution! I'm sure Vern will trust me to return the key, and not to overstay my welcome there, like overnight!
Dear Coop, may you enjoy your magic carpet ride, and leave no stone,unturned. We will have plenty of questions for the asking- may your list runneth over. There are about 48 rare gemstones in Turkey, some of the rarest finds are found there including Bixbite which is the red variety of Beryl, the same mineral that gives us the Emerald.
I was reading up on Bixbite (Red Beryl), which as you mentioned, Janzee, is a rare stone in nature. Like many semi-precious gemstones, it can be recreated in the lab, but of course is less valuable.
Zultanite is another intriguing gemstone, found only in the Anatolian Mountains of Turkey (so its said) and mined by hand. Its rarity isn't just dictated by its natural scarcity and remoteness— Zultanite tests the skills of even experienced cutters due to the difficultly in correctly orienting each crystal to accentuate its inherent color change. With up to 98% of the crystal lost during cutting, its unbelievably low yield (2%) really reinforces the exclusivity of this beautiful gemstone, and is one of the reasons Zultanite is so rare, especially in sizes over 5 carats.
I may have to do some rock hounding in the wilds of the countryside to uncover my own Turkish treasures and pay the taxes on the Dream Home!
Be careful not to cross any borders in the mountains Coop! Make sure you don't get confused with any terrorists from Iraq either. ^_^ The Turkish military is noted for shooting first and asking questions later.
Hmm, maybe I should consider taking the GPS just in case. I like Swiss Cheese, but I don't want to LOOK like a slice of it.
Not to mention that this site would sorely miss your dry humour Coop! ^_^
I think we think alike at times. I was just online looking at the current political climate in Turkey. I have a feeling Coop has made this expedition before.
You know what they say Gracie – great minds………………
Dear Eddie, I cant get back to your post now, maybe the web gods are telling me that I have reached my limit for today. I just wanted to tell you that you are Goodness through and through, and the kids are very lucky to have you as their father. You are one amazing character, and I cant find the words for who you are. I hope there are articles about the work you do, and that you inspire people every day.
Speaking of being careful, past travel experiences (and age) have taught me to be more cautious about my choice of destinations. I've had my share of various weapons pointed in my direction both by the supposed good guys AND bad guys over the years, but at this stage of my life, deep dark caves and waterboarding don't appeal. Just a few mild to moderately stimulating adventures are plenty to keep me interested in my "old age."
Though I've been to Turkey before, I've only visited the larger cities on the western coast, and will be doing a more thorough loop around the country this time. I'll try not to upset any of the locals, who I've always found to be very friendly in the past. Midnight at the Oasis is fine, but anything approaching the Midnight Express kind of stuff is not an option. Now, where were we? Oh yeah, the Urban Oasis and the Dream Home. With more time-lapse construction photos on their way, right?
Hi Coop, with your 007 status, and moderate and prudent attraction to adventure, I know that you will find the most equisite realms of the western coast without going in underground caves to have any tête à tête conversations. Did you know, by the way about the gostowe.com contest. I think MeKhaz&Simi might have mentioned it. Go to the site to sign up for a five day family vacation to Stowe Vermont. It's sponsored by the Stowe Chamber of Commerce probably in association with HGTV. There is an interesting survey that you fill out, which you and the gang would enjoy. I entered, but didn't receive a confirmation, I hope that the next time I register, I get an automatic confirmation.
OMG: Coop is James Bond, retired.
Wow Coop great info on the Zultanite and Bixbite. My dad worked in the diamond industry in NY when I was a kid and although we were not well to do, I grow up fascinated with stones, gems and minerals, and always kept a pouch from the streams I explored. I thought of the Beryl because I went out to dinner with family, and my neice had a glass stone that looked very much like the factory made Bixbite and the topic of discussion became this huge 20ct stone. I am going to have to check out what the Zulinate looks like online and what other minerals coinhabit with it. Please DBCoop, go with your entourage,when you go spotseering (dont know what this means, it was my dad's word), or hire a few of us to be your body guards. We have our one DBCoop who is our national treasure, so please dont go exploring in the wilds of Turkey. Now I am really becoming my grandma.
I am sure you and the wife would get along great Janice. Every jeweler in town is on a first name basis with her. I mentioned those two jewels to her and she immediately told me what they were. I was hoping I could one up her on gems for once! Not a chance of that happening. She has a friend who goes to Africa on relief work, who brings her back Tanzanite. I never knew what that was either. Of course her prize possession is the 7.5 carat perfect diamond I got her! I let her and the jeweler design the setting for it.
Wow, 7.5 that's enough to knock your socks off. You are more perfect Eddie than the diamond, and so is your wife. I know we would get along. I have family that does some design work for some large companies, and we sit around trying to stump each other with stones just like you guys are doing tonight. I am going to ask them to find a stone that you, Coop and your wife have not heard of. Although I dont wear much jewelry, I love it, and stop in all the department stores, and jewelry stores to look at the latest. The recent jewelry shows in Vegas have been over the top. Attendance was down, but it was great!!
Janzee: You and Ed's wife have an amazing knowledge of gems. I found a few Petoskey stones on the beaches of Lake Michigan, but alas, they were a bit chunky to make into jewelry. Ed, 7.5 carat diamond? That jeweler has his work cut out for him. (or her). Hope it doesn't weigh her down.
Wow Katydiddle, fossils right. You can actually do some great studs. Michael Crafts, has everyghing you need. They would look gorgeous on you with a cool scrarf. I'm the anachronismic person in the family. I love precious stones, but don't wear much jewery. I much prefer to make my own, with beach and recycled finds. However… I will say though that after hearing Ed, debragilmour and others, I've started to dream about owning a pair of diamond earrings, this year. Many are not tremendously expensive, and I am wondering if the Cartier clue, might have been really a NY clue for good luck. Maybe Cartier can throw in a pair of Cartier earrings for good measure. OH my Gawsh!!!!
janzee: Thanks for the tip and good luck on your diamond earings!
— On Wed, 8/18/10, IntenseDebate Notifications <notifications@intensedebatemail.com> wrote:
Janzee you were oh so close!!! spotseering = shpotzeering, which means
walking about, looking around, small hike. I personally don't know how old Coop
is but if he needs to borrow any of my can…. walking sticks, I have a few nice ones.
He He He!!!
Ah a fellow shptozeerer, and if we get a little shpilkiss, we'll grab the beautiful walking sticks (would come in handy in Vermont) and on the sidewalks of NY. I am sure Coop and the gang would join us for our ample amble. One of us is liable to break out into a song. I know from Yiddish, as my grandpa spoke it, and my Spanish grandma spoke Spanish, the two of them would argue with each other in their own languages and then laugh it off to "lets dance".
In honor of NYC, we could start off singing "a rose in Spanish Harlem, a red rose up in Spanish Harlem…"
Which by the way, reminds me of at least three things that are needed to complete the Urban Oasis' sensory stimulation to the point of move-in ready perfection—a beautiful bouquet of cut flowers, a chilled bottle of Moët et Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne, and a candy dish filled with wrapped chocolates. I'm sure the management of The Residences at W would be more than happy to supply them for the lucky winner's first visit, and forever after upon request!
A rose is a rose, Coop, and you've made a perfect choice for the winning event. The champagne has it's deep undertones from Provence-Alpes and carries with it a message of royal elegance. The winners arrive celebrity style, and as the limo is opened for them, they are greeted by white gloves that offer a glass tray of gold wrapped chocolates. Each one is a hidden jewel. We hear the musical clinking of glasses for a gallo toast, and crinkling sounds of wrappers, are heard. The spot lights are very bright, illuminating a path as the winners walk onto the carpet of their Oasis dreams. And for royal entertainment, one crystal glass of the bubbly, and I shall dance a tengo with a rose in my mouth. Voice Over- Wake up Janzee you are dreaming about HGTV again.
Sounds like great fun for the winners, Janzee, but with the red carpet, all those photographers, and splashy headlines on the society pages, I'll just have the limo drop me off first at the back entry where security can quickly escort me up to the Urban Oasis for a more private celebration—a Blogger's Bash.
I wonder if EdinOregon would be available as a stand-in for the winner's photo session, along with an entourage of onlookers, well-wishers and autograph-seekers gathered around to cheer him on?
Hey Coop, you know the mama and paparitzy, they have a way of finding the winners even at the backdoor entrance. Stand in Edin Oregon, or DBCoop,? I think you guys can do some stand-up comedy on the red carpet, the kind of stuff that could be broadcast to millions on HGTV. That's HGTV at it's best, winning with a smile!!!1
Hey as long as they are paying for the trip Coop, you know I would be happy to stand in for you. I will just grow my beard longer and wear dak sunglasses! ^_^
The beard and dark glasses should do the trick, Ed…and maybe MARY can get Jim Samples to authorize HGTV to spring for a suite to accommodate you and your guests for a few extra nights while you enjoy the new-found celebrity! Wherever you go during your marathon tour of NYC, just tell them to put it on Coop's bill. With all of the publicity about D B's big win of the Urban Oasis at the W, they won't even question it.
P.S. Coop I just looked at the Zultanite, and watched online as the color changed before my eyes. Magnificant. At first site, I thought of peridot, but I imagine this is so much more brilliant and dramatic. Deep dark caves and and water workings had it's way with this stone. I have seen treated stones that do what Zultanite does naturally with color changes, but it must be fascintating to see this phenomenon. Tanzinite also has this quality, but may not be as dramatically affected by light/heat etc…
Hmm, a sleek NYC Urban Oasis, an Acura ZDX, a Gimla 140' yacht docked on the Hudson, and a 5 carat zultanite stone set in platinum on my ring finger. Okay, count me in! LOL!
Seriously though, zultanite is amazing with its color changes, but unless some merchant in Turkey makes me an offer I can't refuse, I'm not likely to buy gems or jewelry. I rarely wear the rings that I have.
If it's an offer you can't refuse – refuse it Coop! It's probably hot! I wouldn't want to see my friend Coop on the next "Locked up Abroad" show! I have a gold band I have worn for over 42 years and a watch. I have a reputation for always being on time. All of the other jewelry is buried under decades of dust. I even have cuff links from long ago in the pile.
Coop, these collected stones would look magnicicant on the window ledge of the Urban Oasis, so if you should happen to bring home a treasure you'll be able to showcase it.
That's an idea, Janzee. A few large, well-placed rough-cut crystal specimens would definitely add some exotic interest to the furnishings. Just imagine your private residence having even more sparkle than it already does, thanks to Vern's discerning interior design.
I just checked out Vern Yips Bio, and his designs incorporate light to light, so the gems would be a perfect addition. P.S. I am going back to your NY travelogue tonight for pleasure time to read everything. Just now I have an essay to outline.
The Urban Oasis has been a nice diversion but…..let's get back to our Dream Home !!!
Hi gremol, I think the photo of the Urban Oasis is so incredible—-it's simply mesmerized us into a trance.
The new video part 1-2 of the DH is great—–It's beginning to give us a feel for the interior–although it appears they have a long way to go before nearing completion..
Did you notice the —-TALL WINDOWS —–above the garage???? Either they've changed the floor plan—or yes ——–there is a cozy secret treehouse loft—-up there!
Deerspring: I thought I read that that would be storage…….but the windows? Maybe that could account for the added 4 sleeping spaces. Anyone notice any stairs? Or a ladder might do for the young.
Sorry Katydid. No stairs or ladder on the blue prints. I stopped the video many times on the blue prints to check for you.
Ed: Thanks for checking that. No storage, huh? No pull down ladder? Guess it's just wide open space.
— On Wed, 8/18/10, IntenseDebate Notifications <notifications@intensedebatemail.com> wrote:
Deerspring: Found Arrowhead Pointe. Breathtakingly beautiful! I'm sure costing big $$$ but worth every penny.
— On Wed, 8/18/10, IntenseDebate Notifications <notifications@intensedebatemail.com> wrote:
See there are the same tall windows above the garage in the floor plan sketch also. http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/photo_template/articl…
I really enjoyed your stories on NY. Janzee is right you are an excellent writer. Ran across this and thought of your little ones. Khaz and Simi. I think it is Caturday today! http://lovemeow.com/2009/11/caturday-pictures/
Soney and I thought we better check in to see how everybody is doing. Stowe is having all kinds of things going on this weekend. Soney and I decided we would hop into our little antique car and head for Stowe. Had a bit of a scare this morning didn't think Soney could make the trip. He didn't want to eat, play ball and he didn't want to eat his treat (we call his treats Paul Newman's) sometime I will tell you how that came about. But we are packing our gear and heading for Stowe! Whatever it was he is back on track I am so worried about the slightest change in Soney. We are going to have a big celebration in a couple of weeks. I don't like to celebrate my birthday just like to celebrate every day. It will be two years that I adopted Soney on that date. The first two were rocky but he is doing great so we are going to celebrate. Here is the link then on the right click on the video. http://www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?S=10867585
Hi sweetest Alice, so you have to tell us when your birthday is so we can celebrate with you!!!!! There has been alot of partying going on here, and we are all invited to each other's birthdays. Boomer asked me a very cool question, so I will ask you. What kind of birthday cake is your favorite, if not cake, what kind of a treat would you love with candles to sing birthday wishes? I wish I could be in the back seat of your car now, heading for Stowe. I would prop soney up on my lap, and maybe ask him if I could nibble on his Paul Newman crackers- they are so good, humans can eat them, and we would sing camp fire songs and giggle up a storm. For about a month I missed some of the blogging, because I was setting up an apartment in LA, it was a mess, and had a few leaks–yuk!! So my question is, are you heading to Stowe for real, or virtual Stowe. If you are going to Stowe for real, can you please report back to us and tell us something the average tourist would never know. Tell us about the unusual colloquialisms so indigineous to Stowe, like "soonest mended", and the shopping of course, the great shooping and food in the little village. I feel that people welcome you with open arms, and you soon become part of the community.
My birthday is on August 23 and I consider that Soney's birthday too! Although he was born on May 20th. He was three months old when I adopted him. This is the kind of cake I like it comes from a little place (a hole in the wall bakery). So much fun to go there. http://www.nowcake.com/ Soney and I are back in Seattle now. It was so much fun reading what you had to say having the giggles and singing. You are an excellent writer. Soney will share his Paul Newman's with you any time. It is so much fun to travel via the computer. We can enjoy the travel experience without leaving our beautiful little run down home here in beautiful Seattle. By the way it is 91 degrees here.
The linking moster strikes again. Gave the wrong one. This should be the right one. What in the heck is wrong with me? http://www.wcax.com/global/video.asp?clipId=50271…
Hi Alicesoneysmom Nothing. You're way better at this "link thingy" than I am! Sounds like you and Soney are having so much fun romping around Stowe. Won't be long and you'll both be shopping for snows-h-o-e-s. I'm guessing it's not very far off—-before the leaves fall and the first snow blankets Mt Mansfield. LOL
That's okay Alice. It was boring before you learned to link and mess up! ^_^ That darn "moster" won't leave you alone now! I think you have a "moster" on your back.
You know EdinOregon you and C&E are partially to blame turning me into a moster. You two were the ones that gave me the instructions on how to link. The instructions were so good I can't stop linking. If only I could find my glasses so I could read those instructions better maybe I wouldn't make so many mistakes!
I guess that's proof of the old adage "No good deed goes totally unpunished"! ^_^ Maybe I shouldn't be so quick to help out a fellow blogger!
Speaking of Cheerios! http://web.nme.com/video/id/PauDwNFPucU/search/St…
cute
On a Clear Day Barbra Streisand. Beautiful song http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nz5DLO8fclA&fe…
Beautiful Song – Great Movie! (loved the costumes!) This is the version I remember….
On a Clear Day Johnny Mathis Beautiful song. Promise this linking blogging moster will stop for the night. Soney and I arrived in Stowe without a problem. Look forward to the last day of the antique car show. Our antique car just might win a prize. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95AxVxN5zZQ
Ohhh I am going to listen to him now. Thanks alicesoneysmom.
Postscript- I wanted to add that I love the spit shine of the computer desk. What a neat combination of form design and materials. Buttered up against the ice cube looking dinner table, the warm and masculine looking desk creates a…. the best word I can think of is what's already on the page—iconic. From your desk in the 2011 NY Oasis, you can be on the computer communicating with us, to share your experiences in the Big Juicy Apple and what a charmed and whirlwind life you have in the big city. Just keep those cards and letters coming in, when you win!!!!
Stowe DH- I just went back to HGTVpro and looked at pics you all must have looked at weeks ago. I have been gone for a month so this must have been discussed. I love the structure next to the home which seems to be the remains of the lodge and is incredible. I hope that HGTV keeps the structure on the property. It would be fantastic as a guest home, private art school, theater program. "living green" educational center. What were your thoughts on this? Does the land belong to the HGTV home?
If you go all the way through the pictures to #74 you will see that the house has been completely torn down. I think the purchased land has been subdivided into lots. With the Dream Home being on one of the lots.
So this is where I left off before leaving for a month. The vintage doors, where taken from the property and are going to be used in a unique art work, or functional situation in the Stowe House? Have you heard anything more about the upcoming Stowe DH developments. Beyond what we are seeing did you spot anything on HGTVpro?
Good morning. Well, it's the 15th and I haven't received any phone message that I won the VIP givaway. Bummer. But—I received my first email reminder this morning—for the Blog Cabin entry date—next week.
Dreaming on
OOOO! I haven't checked my email yet to see if I got my reminder or not lol.
Wow, now that was freaky! Hit my favorite sites link for HGTV this morning, and up popped…NOTHING, except a page that said "error, this link cannot be found." I went back and typed in the URL the old fashioned way, clicked the mouse, and ZAP, the same error message. What on earth? Went to the other computer in the casita, and still got the same disconcerting response. Okay, this calls for a stealth approach I reasoned. Googled HGTV, clicked again, and YIKES, still the "link cannot be found" tag. Now I'm thinking, did MARY fold up her tent and steal off into the night for a secret stay at the Urban Oasis? Tried the DIYnetwork.com website. No luck there either—same strange message. By this time I'm sweatin' bullets. Okay, Coop, calm down and think. There's got to be a logical explanation to all this. Maybe the last night's caberet visit rattled my brain cells, and I'm not operating on all 12 cylinders?
But by this time I'm beyond concerned, and heading for a meltdown. Frantically grasping at straws, I type in Scripps Networks, and work my way over to the HGTV.com webpage from there…and finally, with a massive sigh of relief, SUCCESS. I'm FINALLY back in the live world of the HGTV blog. My panic subsides, and I'm feeling like all is okay with the world once again.
What was that all about? Was it just me? Talk about playing mind games…don't let it happen again, HGTV. While I enjoyed the Twilight Zone series years ago, no need to revisit them online, thank you!
By the way, speaking of rattled brain cells, make that 'cabaret'…old chum.
Coop, old chum, referring to the old breakup line, "It's not you, it's me" . Well, it wasn't you, old chum, maybe HGTV. hehe
Thanks for sharing this—-Yes, several hours ago—–some "alien" thing was going on! I thougt I had been placed into "detention" for some bizarre reason by HGtV (as I haven't a clue what that looks like). But obviously not. Apparently their site had some major black-out.
Coopy –the admin wrote me an email about four days ago, and said that there is a gliche on this website. Have no fear, it's not you, they are trying to work it out. If you write to them to explain what happened, they'll send some instuctions about a right click a left click and then a soft shoe.
I was right in the middle of viewing the Urban Oasis pics when the same thing happened to me — the connection just quit! I couldn't get on to the Food Network site either. Everything finally came back, until I tried to leave a comment on the Design Star blog last night, and everything shut down again! All seems to be fine right now, and hopefully will stay that way!
What IS that room above the garage ????
That is quite a car barn! I wonder if you could use that space to winch up heavy winter equipment such as snowmobiles, or the summer use golf cart and the like?
Now, where was I when I was briefly interrupted by a technical glitch? Oh yes, thinking about those magical Hudson River views from the Urban Oasis, and some thoughts on ten extraordinary places to stay as a result.
1. Planning on a visit to The Residences at W in New York Downtown, but want to find really unusual accommodations—and think sleeping in a lighthouse is dreamy and romantic? I found just the place. (Actually, Jaclyn Liechti of SmarterTravel.com found it for me, and sent me an email.)
The only lighthouse on the Hudson River with overnight accommodations, Saugerties Lighthouse in Saugerties, New York can be accessed one way: by walking a half-mile trail that floods at high tide. Once there, guests can relax in either the West Room, which faces the Catskills Mountains, or the East Room, which looks onto the river. Both rooms, located on the second floor, are furnished with simple, comfortable furniture, much as the house would have been in the early 20th century. You can take a tour of the lighthouse (whether you stay or not) on Sunday afternoons or during the summer by appointment.
Rooms cost $200 per night, and include breakfast prepared by the resident keeper. The bed and breakfast is open to guests Thursday through Sunday nights year-round except February, and it's wise to book a year or more in advance.
The lighthouse rooms so fantastic and adventurous. It would be worth looking into this especially if breakfasts are amazing.
3. Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum, Northport, Michigan. The 1858 [Lake Michigan] lighthouse is now open to the public as part of a volunteer program, where you can stay in the old assistant keeper's quarters and perform duties that a keeper would have done, such as cleaning, collecting admissions, painting, and mowing the lawn. "You get to live here and be a part of history," says Keeper Program Coordinator Lisa Drummond.
There are two bedrooms in the quarters, one upstairs and one downstairs, with a shared bathroom and kitchen. During the peak season, accommodations are adults-only, but the off-season program allows families with children to share the space.
To participate in the Keeper's Program, you must submit an application, and a fee of $195 per person per week (about $33 per night), plus a museum membership of $15-25, covers costs. Rooms may be rented separately. During the off-season, guests can stay a minimum of two nights for a fee of $100 per night for up to four people.
Sounds interesting. I wonder how long the waiting list is
4. Lighthouses often conjure up romantic images, and the East Brother Light Station [in Richmond, California] is no exception. To get to the house, you must take a boat to a small island in San Francisco Bay. Once you arrive, you're welcomed with a Champagne and hors d'oeuvres reception, and will learn a little bit about the history of the island and the 1874 lighthouse. After a four-course dinner, feel free to walk up the stairs into the lantern room that guides ships to this day. You can even head outside to the widow's walk, which offers 360-degree views of the bay.
When you're ready to get some sleep, nestle into one of four rooms in the main lighthouse building that are furnished with period furniture, then wake to a full breakfast—including the house special, Lighthouse French Toast Souffle—and a demonstration of the old foghorn operation. Prices range from $295 to $415 per night and include a Champagne reception, four-course dinner, and breakfast.
5. Just an hour from Boston, the historic Wings Neck Lighthouse, Pocasset, Massachusetts, built in 1849, has been in owner Christina Stevens' family since the 1940s. While the lamp is no longer functional, guests still have access to the tower through a breezeway from the main house. Unlike many other lighthouse accommodations, which are often very rustic, this vacation rental's 2003 renovation makes the house "a very comfortable, nicely equipped home with modern creature comforts."
Families will find plenty of room to spread out at Wings Neck, which sleeps eight and has a large eat-in kitchen and one and a half baths. Bicycles, beach chairs, DVDs, and books are all available for guests to use, and summer renters can explore the private beach.
Accommodations range from $2,500 per week during the off-season to $4,500 per week during the peak months (about $52-94 per person per night). Renters who are staying multiple weeks can call or email to receive a discount.
6. Run by the Points Northeast Historical Society, the Browns Point Light Station [Browns Point, Washington] is on the National Historic Register, and as such is a living history museum. The unique, art deco style lighthouse was completed in the 1930s, and its unusual obelisk shape makes it stand out from other stations across the country. The light is still operated by the Coast Guard, and stands in a small neighborhood park in Puget Sound.
Renters sleep in the light keeper's cottage, which stands 50 yards away from the lighthouse, and have some duties, including raising the flag, keeping a log, and opening the facilities for visitors for a few hours on Saturdays. The cottage has three bedrooms with a shared bathroom, kitchen, living room, and music parlor. Although the lighthouse itself is closed to the public, you can head down to the basement of the cottage to explore the hands-on museum or ring the original 1903 fog bell in the pump house.
From April to October, only weekly house rentals are accepted at $800 per week (about $22 per person per night for six guests). During the winter, weekly rentals are $500, but two-night minimum stays are available at $124 per night.
7. Set along the shores of Lake Superior in Ahmeek, Michigan, the Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn offers guests plenty of old-fashioned hospitality that will have you feeling right at home. Upon arrival, proprietors Mary Mathews and William Frabotta will take you on a tour of the station, which houses a rare Fresnel lens in the lantern room. The property is located on Keweenaw Peninsula, and you can watch the sun rise or set over the water from the top of the tower, 101 feet above the lake.
Mary and Bill purchased the lighthouse—the largest and last ever built on the Great Lakes—in 1961 and began renovating it in 1992. Today, guests can stay in one of eight Victorian-style rooms, all of which have queen- or king-sized beds, year-round.
Room rates range from $159 to $239 (with taxes) and include a full tour of the lighthouse, dessert, gourmet breakfast, and "lots of hospitality."
8. [I wonder if this would be our editor MARY's favorite lighthouse?] Guests of the Keeper's House [Isle Au Haut, Maine] can go completely off-the-grid, thanks to owners Jeffery and Judith Burke's commitment to self-sufficiency. The keeper's cottage is powered by solar electricity and wind energy, and the Burkes make their own water from the ocean. Acadia National Park makes up 60 percent of the island, according to Judi, so hikers and bikers will have plenty to explore. The cottage rental even provides bicycles for those interested seeing in the area's natural beauty.
There are two rentals available at the Robinson Point Lighthouse Station: The keeper's cottage, which has four bedrooms, two baths, a large kitchen, and a dining room, and a lighthouse woodshed that sleeps five.
Accommodations are open from May 15 through mid-October. The keeper's house requires weekly rentals, and the lighthouse woodshed requires weekly rentals in July and August and minimum three-night stays otherwise. The cottage (which sleeps eight) costs $5,000 per week (about $104 per person per night); the woodshed costs $1,500 per week (about $50 per person per night) or $225 per night.
Coop, have you stayed in this one? I love the idea that these folks utilize solar, and make their own water from the ocean.
9. North, to Alaska? The Odiak Pharos lighthouse in Cordova, Alaska, sits just a couple hundred feet from a landlocked barge, which now serves as the main lodge for the Cordova Rose bed and breakfast. The small tower remains a Coast Guard-registered lighthouse, and is operated by owner Gary McDowell. "It doesn't serve a lot of navigational function anymore," he says, but it's "a pretty cool novelty."
The nautical-themed barge has eight guest rooms, with two separate common areas for guests to socialize. No roads lead to the town, and the only way to get there is by a high-speed ferry or Alaska Airlines flight. If adventure is the name of your game, the owners will help create a customized package with itineraries that include fly-fishing, hiking, and bird-watching.
Stays cost $135 per night without breakfast, or $145 including breakfast. The main lodge is closed during the winter, but cabins on the same property are available.
10. [For those of us who weren't the lucky winners of HGTV's Plymouth/Pinehills 2010 Green Home.] The Race Point Lighthouse [North Truro, Massachusetts] is a summertime escape located right on the beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Stay in the original keeper's house, which has been brought back to its 1950s state, according to Reservations Manager Nikki Nunes. Wildlife lovers will enjoy seeing whales and seals right from the beach, depending on the time of year.
There are two options for accommodations at Race Point; the original keeper's house, which sleeps up to 10, and the Whistle House, which was remodeled in 2007 and holds eight guests. In the keeper's house, you'll share space with the modern-day Keeper, who maintains responsibility for on-site activities.
The Keeper's House can be rented out per room per night, and rates range from $145 to $185. The Whistle House is rented out weekly, and costs between $2,000 and $2,500 per week (about $41-52 per person per night for eight guests). Both houses are open from May through Columbus Day weekend.
Super, Deerspring! Delightfully creative, and to top it off, right on topic all the way. That's bound to put us in a "New York State of Mind", and leave us imagining all of the great sights and sounds to be found "On Broadway!"