Dec
13
Sweeps News and Super Fan
Hi folks,
I’ve been seeing some conversations brewing about giveaway rules. If you enter and win the Housewarming Giveaway, you are still eligible to enter and win the HGTV Dream Home 2011 Giveaway. I am here to say enter away!
Also, we have a new vlog today from Super Fan. She shares some secrets from host Monica Pedersen. Take a look.
Thanks for the heads up Mary & Gail! I'll get right on entering away!
Thanks, Gail, for sharing Monica Pedersen's favorites about the Stowe DH! Will Monica do another video showing us how to whip up a signature cocktail for this DH? I hope it's something with a touch of maple syrup in it!
I see you found it. Yummy!
"…………………….. Link to a yummy Vermont-inspired cocktail on her facebook page (BTW, Gail, I would have commented there but I am not on Facebook!):
http://liquor.com/cocktails/liberation-libation/
This would actually be quite tasty for Christmas as well — we may just have to try it then! "
That just gets me so super excited!! I can't wait for the virtual tour, I'm already dreaming about it!
Speaking of entering to win…I've been voting for the housewarming gifts and on – i guess it was – my tenth time voting it said vote again. I voted again and it said I can vote 9 more times…? Of course I didn't vote 9 more times but was just wondering how it works?
The rules states that we can vote for the house warming gifts up to 10 times a day per valid email address. I hounestly feel like this could be a test from the HGTV dream team to see who knows how to fallow the rules of the sweepstakes, eventhogh it does say enter again. I ENTER TEN TIMES A DAY LIKE THE RULES ALLOWS US. this is only my oppinion
Yea, I have noticed this as well and I only vote 10x that is it.
Okay coo l:) No worries, that was the only time I must have taken the extra vote…it kind of gets me confused because I depended on the site to tell me I have 0 amount of tries left since I wasn't really keeping track
I allways look out for maybe they are trying to trick us to see if we are able to fallow the rules, so i read the rules for about 3 hours a day.
FINALLY a new thread! I think I was getting spoiled there for a little while with the frequent new threads! Those are all things I think I would love too.
Same here!
Good afternoon, everybloggie(:
Gail! You, lifesaver, you! I was going crazy without a new thread. I cannot WAIT to get the virtual tour, and finally see the "secret room" above the car barn. I really, reaaallly hope it's another room. Even though the ski dorm can sleep eight, no one wants to have to share a room. So, I don't know about you guys, but I'm rooting for not having to share a room If my parents win. Oooh…Or a nic eloft with a couple of recliners and a bookshelf. Ah, all the possibilities…
And is it just me, or would you rather have a family win the home, or just a single person?
I for one think that a family would enjoy the home more than just a single person or couple. Lotsa fun!
Well, Happy Blogging (:
And a Happy Holidays to all.
Yes I am Dreaming with you… I just get so excited when Looking at the pictures and reading the BLOGS. I HOPE its a new Bedroom as well LOL. I guess all we can do now is Dream LOL
It some what bothers me that you think i shouldnt be the winner of this year's HGTV dream home , becouse i am single. I do have a big family that would come with me if i were to win this beuitifull HGTV dream home. I spent about four years getting some callege credits, so when i went into the marine corps i would get myself two pay increases. I guess you could say that i was on that at his young age decided that i wanted to go and fight for our country so that we can remain free from any terrists acts. If i had it to do all over i would go and give my life for my country so our brothers and sisters can remain free. Eventhough i did suffer from a tramatic brain injury, i still feel like i have a good head on my shoulder's
I'm not saying you don't deserve the house. I'm just saying that a big family with lots of kids might enjoy it more than a single person would. It's my own opinion, as is yours.
Well i can tell you just becouse i am single and never been married, I am keeping my options open to some day get married and haveing kids of my own. I would enjoy this beuitiful HGTV dream home just as much as any one would. I would move there and accupie this home with my big family. I love all of my family.
I really did like the 2010 HGTV home as well, but im looking forward to having a home that has not yet been won. I did try verry hard to win the home lost year. but i guess it just was not my time to have my own home. Maybe this year, however each year the homes do get bigger.
Where is everybody we need something to talk about! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z04r_tlWdRs
Tell me about it. I guess a lot of people weren't expecting a new blog. They'll be back soon. Woohoo for us! (:
Loved the video Alicesoneysmom. But don't worry, Dec 20th is coming. There will be sooo much to talk about that day. In fact, I'm willing to bet we'll have almost a thousand comments if a new thread is not posted soon afterwards. Anyone want to guess how many comments the December 20th reveal will have? A virtual lifetime supply of Lindt Lindor Truffles awaits the closest guess.
Thanks for the info Gail. You forgot to mention your five favorite areas. Wanna share your favorites? Can't wait to decide which five areas appeal to me most. December 20th is only a few days away.
My brother-in-law's bucket list days have come to an end. His funeral is Saturday. I hope he enjoyed his final days.
I'm so sorry to hear about your brother-in-law, Lessie. I hope that he managed to get done all that he wished to complete before he passed away — at least he had loving family around him. Best wishes to you all!
Thanks CplusE. I think he lost interest in the bucket list as he spent more time enjoying those he loved. It never seems to fail–people always trump things. Even though cooking two Thanksgiving meals was challenging, it was definitely worth it!
Dearest Lessie, I am responding to your post to me the other day, and just now reading this part of the blog when I was out of town. I am very sorry to hear of your loss, and have a feeling that everyone is holding together with tremendous prayer, healing and the joy of family that knows that life must continue. In the hardest moments I'll bet some humor has softened the grief and given light to the very best times your brother in law spent on this earth. I love you blogamadilla Janice
Thanks blogamadilla Janice. His death and funeral were so different from his wife's, even though she passed two months earlier. There was a sweetness in her passing and the funeral was great. It ended with line dancing! His was more like a class reunion. I enjoyed seeing classmates I hadn't seen in years. Nothing like friends to remind you of the things you've done or shouldn't have done in grades 1-12. Now that was fun! I guess the flip side was ending two physical relationships while allowing my heart and mind memories to flourish.
How beautiful Lessie, that you danced at the funeral, and reached out to friends you haven't seen in many years. How amazing it is that you have a history or a legacy that goes back to classmates from school, and that families and friends support,love, and stand with you at all times. They are there through the joys, and sadness, but mostly joy. Like you say, it's the memories that live with us for all time.
It may sound odd Janzee but my sister-in-law's funeral was one of the best funerals I've attended. It was good to see so many classmates at my brother-in-law's funeral. Yes, I've been blessed with wonderful family and friends—even though they get on my nerves at times, just as I probably get on their nerves at times too. Good thing we've never gotten on each other's last nerve. No telling what would happen then.
Don't worry, we'll get on each other's nerves, that's the nature of a woman, and then we'll laugh about it. You DebraG and I keep posting back and forth, we should have an HGTV live blog, wouldn't that be fantastical.
Lessie, my sympathy goes out to you, and your family on the passing of your brother-in-law. I hope he got to complete the whole list, or if not, enjoyed whatever he did accomplish.
Thanks AnneEliseSouth. If you're a Texan, I'm certainly enjoying the warm weather you're having. People are complaining that the temp will drop. Anything above 40 degrees doubles my current temp at home. As for my brother-in-law, he did enjoy all he accomplished.
Lessie, it's good to see you here. I'm sorry about your brother-in-law and hope your family
will be all right during this difficult time.
Thanks for your kindness Deerspring. My family is well. Personally, I'm glad my brother-in-law is no longer suffering or in pain. His final days were much more difficult than his wife's. I'm glad he had the opportunity to tell everyone goodbye.
Lessie–I had noticed your absence and wondered about your family members– you had been mentioning the in-laws and their illnesses before. It was wonderful that you were able to be there to help out; something so sad did bring people together, united in love and support. So sorry that his passing was difficult, my condolences to you and family, dear.
Thanks LLColeman, This is such a loving blogging family. The wake is today and the funeral is tomorrow. Afterwards I'll definitely be ready for the Dream Home reveal. In fact, I'm looking forward to it!
Sorry that your relative passed away, my condolences to you and family. Glad he had the opportunity to tell everyone goodbye.
Wish my loved one would have had a chance to tell us all goodbye!! It was so sudden. Don't know if the kids and I will ever totally heal.
Take care today!
Dearest Stone, this is the first time, I am seeing your post. I may have been out of town, and am very sorry that I missed your words. When I read, your post, it really touched my heart. You are a very very dear person, and feel very strongly that our loved ones connect with us when they pass on in so many ways. Knowing that you are carrying forward with all of your hopes and dreams, that you are a remarkable story teller, adventurer, lover of nature, people, children, that you love life, and continue to encourage people and find new opportunities, your loved one is shining very brightly in the heavens above, and is smiling at your antics. Know that your beloved loves you, and will wait life times to be with you again. Your children are very lucky to have a parent like you in lives in such joy. Bless you Stone and may you find new strength, and courage every day.
A quick story about messages from beyond. I loved a man who was like a father to me and knew him for fifeteen years. I worked and jogged with him every day and enjoyed our friendship as though he were family. He passed a few years ago, and I was devastated. One night, several days later, I went outside and there was a possum sitting on my patio furniture. The critter did not move for hours, and a neighbor came over unbeknownst to me and tried to s h o e it off the chair. When I came out I was furious, and said leave him alone, he is here to discuss something with me. I sat down across from him, and had a silent conversation. Sometime later I asked Jared if he wanted to go back to the woods, and just like we were preparing for our run, Jared got off the seat and we wadled together back to the woods, were I yelled "I love you", and the animal turned around I swear, and curled his lip in the Jared usual side smile.
THANKS for sharing this remarkable story. Sorry to hear you have lost a loved one. It is comforting to hear that you had this remarkable experience. I would love to have a similar type one. I have chosen to stay closer to home these days. Miss watching the animals……….. which I find more honest than humans. Occasionally I go down to the shoreline, but not as much lately as its cooler now. But doesn't stop me from shoveling snow…… nothing like a red nose and a cup of hot chocolate afterwards! LOL
TAKE CARE!
Your friend Stoney
Dearest Stone, with your imagination and minds eye, these events will occur for you. You've told me soo many wonderous stories from the past, and because you are so connected to nature and life, nature will give you a cradle for to soothe your soul. You have all the time in the world. For two years, like that guy Ekard Tolley, I would spend time at a park, anywhere I could— just out, looking for signs even if it just a whisp connection to my own dog. Let the worry and stress go now dear, and allow your body to feel ease. In this state of allowance and rest, you can heal and little by little reminders will trickle in. A cool support group might be a nice way to connect to people, there is always alot of poetry, crying laughing, and great coffee cake. I used to bring the no gluten stuff.
Dearest Janzee,
Thanks for your caring words. While I read and reread your wonderful words, I realized why your family cherishes you so! Thanks for reminding me that we will be together again somewhere in time. Our time was so abruptly chopped short… I miss ALL the times we had together….. talking, raising children, dancing, camping, cooking, etc. etc. etc. (miss being with my beloved). I am still hoping to having a conversation in a dream. Some say it is still too soon. ?? I had one dream with my beloved outside the van open window….. I spoke, but heard nothing back. I still wonder why. We never had a "goodbye" that busy last day. Life can be cruel. I am still hoping to have dreams where we will talk and hug. Maybe I have, but don't remember them! I am hopeful! You are right…. I am so grateful to have my memories, family, friends, children, and grandchildren in my life……………….. and want to enjoy them for ever more!
Continue being the caring and amazing person (& friend) that you are Janzee!!
I love you dear Stoney and I feel you. It chokes me up, as I write, and keep hearing the power and sentiment, behind, in front, and through these words. You will have have dreams my darling, and signs and wonders from your beloved, even in small ways. It's important to be kind to yourself, right here and right NOW. There are things you already know of forever love, and that your beloved would want you you to dance again, and love every day in every way. Your beloved would probably be the kind of person that would remind you to eat three square meals on a pot belly stove, hike, and feed the animals.Feed the Animals. Coleman sent me a beautiful message and I am extracting these words: "Small things like that happen every day, and I try to remember to notice the small everyday miracles". This is for YOU, at this time of your life, and always. You are the kind of person that sees miracle–the soul in an animal, the music in a child's laugh, belief in a stranger, the healing in art and aesthetics, a good practical joke, and finding love in the deepest part of you. Don't be afraid to spend time in the places where you and your dear one spent on the land around you. A stone will have a special echo across a frozen river, signing his/her initials with yours will be seen and felt. A special meal that you both enjoy will be tasted together. After the grieving my friend go out and play, the humor will heal. You will enjoy everything for a rich long and healthy life. It is your time Stone to experience, give yourself this BLESSING. BLESS YOU, LOVE JANICE
To all bloggers—Anyone interested in guessing the total number of comments for the Dec 20th reveal post? A virtual lifetime supply of Lindor Truffles from the virtual Lindt store awaits the winner.
OK, Lessie, I'll take a totally random guess and say 1500!
CplusE, that's a solid number. Let's see how quickly we can reach it.
Cami, where are you? Lessie is playing your song!
Too funny, AnneEliseSouth. But you're right!
My guess is…1107. That's my birthday but backwards!
Irishsprite, how many times have you used that number? It will be awesome if it's the winning number! Maybe I should have used my backwards birthday too. Good thinking!
Lessie, I've used it a few times. Either when I need a 4-digit number or 711 doesn't fit the situation. The Irish are very supersticious you know. So far, no winners but maybe this time I'll be lucky. I need a virtual lifetime supply of Lindor Truffles! LOL!
1785! Lessie, you know this could create multiple entries by bloggers trying to reach their
numbers. LOL!
hmmmm Soney and I are thinking how about 1234. Thanks Lessie this is fun!
1234, Alicesoneysmom? I love seeing the combination of numbers people guess. Okay, how did you arrive at those numbers?
Works for me Deerspring, especially if it's close to the number I chose. How did you decide upon 1785?
Lessie, it was a wild guess. You had my attention when you mentioned Lindt Truffles!
I think I accidently replied to Deerspring. Maybe we should quit while we are behind. Anyway Lessie this is a great idea. Soney's guess was 1234.
No problem, Alicesoneysmom. I love reading the comments. How did Soney arrive at 1234. This is fun. Love the numbers we're getting.
I have no idea! Many might be out Christmas shopping! Or snow shoveling.
578
RJMstone, no way I'm shoveling snow or shopping until I've checked out the Dream Home and commented—several times. Touring the 2011 Dream Home is the first Christmas present I'm opening. Yeah, I think it deserves a day or two or three or five soley devoted to feasting on the Dream Home and enjoying each room to the max!
578, you sure you want to keep that number?
A virtual lifetime supply of Lindor Truffles? Great! Then only virtual weight gain. LOL
So I should change my quess to 1,578. Maybe Mary Graff will leave that Blog up longer.
Good Gail thanks for posting a new video. I was starting to worry about you. I well when i do win this Beuitifull HGTV dream home i will make a bunch of post cards and send them out to my family and friends, becouse it really does look like a beuitiful post card. I do wish that i would have thought about that idea myself, but i didn't. That would be a good post card to send out to ervery one. It just gets tiring seeing the same video over ,,and over for more than three days. I can handle three days. But 4 days is getting old watching the same thing again and again When i do win this years HGTV dream home it will be the perfect place for me to live at. I can do something different ervery day of the week. I will never get borred. About 6 or 7 more days till the online tour starts. Thanks dream team for a job well done.
SuperFan Gail isn't Missing In Action any more!!
LOL
Merry Christmas Gail. Wishing you a happy and healthy HOLIDAYS and new year!
Mary, please talk to the higher ups at HGTV about having a Christmas Tree or two or three or four or five in this Dream Home. It's the perfect holiday Dream Home and it also keeps the tradition of the 1954 musical "White Christmas" in Stowe.
Good idea, Lessie! I managed to watch snippets of that movie over the weekend when it was on — it is my favorite holiday movie! And even if HGTV is not able to really put trees up in the DH, with the wonders of modern technology I'll bet they could decorate the rooms virtually for us to see how Linda W. and crew would embellish the house for the season!
Great idea CplusE. You're absolutely right, the talented people at HGTV can do anything! Can't wait to see Linda's wonderful Christmas designs for this Dream Home.
I agree CplusE. The talented folks at HGTV are more than qualified to show us "Christmas in Stowe at the 2011 Dream Home." You in, HGTV?
Dear Gail and fellow bloggers. Belive me when january first gets here i am going to enter away.. Once a day will keep the doctors away. I do love erverythng about this year's HGTV dream home. I dont know about the inside yet, becouse i havent seen it yet until december 20 th. Its so hard to believe that its almost time to start entering in hopes to be the big winner of this year's HGTV dream home. I can say that i deserve it. I do like erverything about this dream home so far. I dont know what the inside looks like , but i cant wait to see it on the 20 th of december. I hope that we get more snow by christmas. The snow here in twin falls Idaho is almost melted. My favorite time of year is christmas, and my birthday were i celabrate each year i am still on earth. Thanks dream team for all your tallent.
You mean twice a day, don't you. You can enter once on HGTV and once on the Front Door site. So, twice a day. Lovely.
thanks for letting me know about twice a day, becouse i had no idea. until you told me.
The 2011 Dream Home is spectacular! I really enjoyed the reveal show that aired after the parade. The hosts were wonderful, as usual, and they presented themselves and the home in a way that was warm and inviting – not pretentious or condescending. I appreciate the opportunities that are available to enter the contest. I need a miracle so badly ( sorry Lord for asking for one so big)! I love HGTV so much and am grateful for everyone associated with this network. HGTV is on at my house 75% of the time and I am so glad to have the quality of programs that are available. I feel like I know each of the hosts personally! I wish everyone good luck in this sweepstakes. Have fun and dream on!!!!
your just like 40 million other people who would love to win this fabulous home. Prayer never does hurt. I feel like i am alive becouse of people have prayed for me alot. I for one would really like to be the big winner of the post card setting HGTV dream home.
Happy Holidays & Merry 2011!
January is on it's way
The long awaited 2011 give away
Don't sit on your laurels & eat, plus pray
Enter daily the 2011 DH Stowe give away
Entry ballots are blank for now and were rested
Trying to enter daily as we become fully tested
Completely committed while hoping to be the one securely vested
Vying my excitement inside with winning DH 2011 is ultimately nested
Merry New Year!
How I see it my rhyme above…
Ah what a process…before it begins, while in it, thru
the middle & all the way to the end
Then back to the beginning all over once again.
Good Luck to Us All…live well, laugh & dream our ultimate selections,
)
Thanls for the poem PFG.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I would have sworn that Monica was shopping in the Chandler Arizona mall the other day. After I walked away, I wish I had said something to her. She is very pretty (if that was her). Here I go again getting consumed by all the bloggers comments about the Dream Home. I just would love to win it. Maybe this is the one. My fortune cookie said that I was going to move to a beautiful new home within a year. I'll keep my fingers crossed. Best of luck!
The best to you Organizing Day! Can't wait to see if your fortune cookie was right.
ME TOO!
I think I just saw Monica Pedersen on TV in a movie about a beauty pageant. Was she an actress before being on HGTV shows? (She is playing a beauty pageant woman, Lorna Larkin of Texas, and she is a ventriloquist in the movie.) I think she looks exactly like her!! WOW!
The movie is called "BEAUTIFUL".
What do you think? Is it her? (The woman in the light yellow dress.) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0210567/
Who is Bridgette Wilson ? http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0933098/
Could Monica be her sister?? They are both tall. Not sure about eye color.
Great News, we can enter both, so so excited and the 20th is almost here. Good Luck Everyone
We can see the inside on the 20th………. so only 3 days away!
What time?
Good Luck fellow Bloggers!
Imbarshaw, I see your avatar is a picture of Minnie Mouse! Were you the blogger that said DISNEY was one of HGTV's sponsors for this Dream Home? Wonder what they could have contributed to the Dream Home? (DVD's for the lower den?) (Or something magical in the Car Barn or a treehouse looking loft?)
I wonder what she means when she referenced how color has been used in the dorms. Do you think it is used to delineate a girls' side and boys' side?
I think maybe a fall and winter side. All the colors of the outdoors brought inside.
Someone posted a link to a video shot by a local news channel and it had some sneak peaks of the interior including the bunk room! It was decked out in different shades of rich reds and different textures making it cozy and still fun. I will try to find the link, hold on.
Ok it was deerspring who posted it on the last blog thread. http://www.fox44now.com/
its the home page of the news channel and there is a video clip of the dream home on there.
Thanks SydneyNK. I think they must have taken the video clip off. I could only get the script. Dang!
Try this link Tanya Gail found boomer http://petermillerimages.photoshelter.com/gallery…
Click on the link. Then go to the "Top Videos" (down the page a little bit). Go to the 3rd page and you should find it.."Win HGTV"… Good luck.
It worked. Thank you SweetLiz.
I'm not sure I can wait 6 days for another glimpse! I'd do anything for at least another partially fuzzed-out photo op!
! AH ! new thread great awesome. Hi everybody oh I am so happy this morning to wake up to new comments, but I do think this will be the last one before the December 20 Virtual Tour and then we will have so much to share and Thank's Mary for clearing some concerns about us voting.
At this point, I'm not sure which very special event I'm looking forward to most of all, the 20 December Virtual Tour of the Stowe Dream Home, or Christmas Day!!! They're both eagerly anticipated, there's bound to be plenty of surprises, and each one will make us ooh and ahh and jump and shout with excitement…. Plus we'll all have lots to share afterwards on the blogs!
In the middle of the night—Khaz decided she is positive we are going to be invited to the DH Christmas Bash after the grand reveal. She needs something chic to wear! In a dither, she started leafing through the Vogue Cat Catalog—while Simi sat staring at her antics. First she picked out a pair of hot-pink faux fur earmuffs. Next was her to-die-for longhaired, hot-pink faux fur boots with wide multi-gem encrusted buckles—she thinks they accent her silky, black Persian coat. Next she chose a pearl and diamond studded choker. There she stated, "Simi, your turn." We waited, and we waited, and we waited—-finally!
Simi slowly flipped the pages. She chose a deep, royal blue beret with a small gold and crimson insignia tucked discretely at the edge of the brim. Next she chose a deep royal blue/crimson scarf to accent her silvery Himalayan coat and icy blue eyes. She chose a pair of faux leather charcoal boots with a thin, sleek silver buckle. She hesitated, and then added a slim, charcoal harness and leash to her list. She sat there quiet pleased with herself. "My, turn, my turn, again!" (from Khaz). She pointed to a wide silver harness and leash, laden with at least five more pounds of multi-faceted gems—-"Mine!” Simi stared at her and mumbled, "Disgustingly ostentatious!" "I don't care!" Khaz, haughtily replied,
Wait!!! Did we hear the tinkling of bells? “Could be the neighbors wind chimes.” I calmly informed them, as they leaped from the desk and were off in a flash—to peek out the windows—-“Is Santa here?!”
“Oh, well.” I sighed, as I put pen to paper and I began to write. Dear Santa, Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.
We enjoyed reading every single word and can picture Khaz and Simi flipping through the pages of the Vogue Cat Catalog! When do we get to see their fashion show? They know that boots are in this year. They have good taste! Thanks Soney and I loved it. Slurpy kisses to the girls.
We had fun dreaming this up! Slurpy Merry Christmas kisses back to Soney from the girls—-they both slept curled up with the wrapped presents last night–so cute.
Since I've been dreaming of a White Christmas in Vermont the past few months, I thought of buying the DVD (1954 movie version) to watch at home, but then I found an IMAX theater not too far a drive that is screening it, so I plan to be there (in virtual Vermont) watching my bigger-than-life White Christmas and thinking about the Dream Home in Stowe. Even though the weather outside's delightful here in S CA today, I'll dress warm and imagine a chill in air as the virtual snow falls around me.
Gotta go and hitch up the reindeer to the sleigh, folks.
Speaking of the delightful weather outside here in sunny Southern California, a perfect day was had by all at the Mission Inn in Riverside yesterday. Though I rarely miss my annual pilgrimage there, I'm still awestruck each year by the beauty of all those millions of Christmas lights that decorate the historic Inn and the surrounding trees and palms, as well as the resorts landscaped grounds, along with all of the animated life-size figures that adorn this four-story hotel's balconies.
Besides, I thoroughly enjoyed a delicious lunch at the highly recommended Phood on Main restaurant, and the great shopping to be found up and down the pedestrian mall. What better place to really draw one into the holiday spirit! Unless it's a virtual tour of the Stowe Dream Home, with its picture-perfect blanket of pristine white snow, mountain lodge architecture, and incredibly scenic ski slope views.
Will I be blessed by a Christmas in Vermont next year, at my new Dream Home? Well, I've put it on my wish list already, and I'll try to be extra good!
Coop–there used to be an HGTV show filmed at the hotel in Riverside– ( it was in the network's early years. Don't remember who the cohosts were–but possibly Susie Coelho was one of them.) I have yet to make it to Riverside, but the Mission Inn was so impressive on that show, it inspired me to go there some day, to enjoy the Inn and other historic places there.
What great fun to see the hotel all decorated for the holidays!
A pleasure to hear from Super Fan Gail, as always, and another little peek into the surprises in store for fellow dreamers when the virtual tour is finally unveiled this 20th December. And when will our Super Fan be sharing her own favorite spots in the Stowe Dream Home?
Hmm, and not a word from Gail about the luxurious hot tub surrounded by natual boulders, or the highly classified "secret space" above the Car Barn that some bloggers have been buzzing about….
WOW
SuperFan Gail asked us all what we wanted to know…. so we TOLD. LOL
Then she goes missing for awhile. You are good HGTV-Mary……. for dragging out the suspense of us poor diehard Dream Home fans. (I know… I know….. you are stretching out time until December 20th. LOL )
REMINDS me of …………………….. (Mary, are you dancing to this song?) LOL
The "Sidestep" song sung and danced by Charles Durning……
from the Dolly Parton movie, "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas".
http://music.msn.com/music/album/various-artists/…
(Did you know that was based on a true story?)
(Thanks for the sneak peek news leaks!! Kindness is royal !!)
Gail went to Las Vegas. She mentioned it on her facebook page. Must have been personal business!
That Media Life is something!! Wonder what all it can do!! Jack is showing it!
Great Sneak Peek!!
This Dream Home sneak video even shows the Media Life touchpad ….
http://www.wcax.com/global/video.asp?clipId=53617…
Another Dream Home sneak peek video
http://www.fox44now.com/global/video/flash/popupp…
Incredible! Thanks for sharing the sneak peek videos
the video was great can,t wait to see the 2011 tour on dec 20th
RJMStone, thank you for all the links you have provided. The earlier ones did not work on our computer, but these last 2 links worked beautifully !! It was a good opportunity to really look around, and I loved the interviews w/ Jack and also Brendan O'Reilly.
I think the media touchpad is going to be the mysterious luxury surprise that Mary and Gail hinted at.
Hey, Is this legit? I found a website with several photos of the 2011 Dream Home posted with brief descriptions.
http://petermillervermont.com/
GREAT PICTURES!!! Even shows jackets hanging in the Mudroom!
So it comes with six Burton snowboards too. COOL!!
Great addition to these other videos…..
This Dream Home sneak news video even shows the Media Life touchpad …. http://www.wcax.com/global/video.asp?clipId=53617…
Dream Home sneak news video
http://www.fox44now.com/global/video/flash/popupp…
I'm surprised to see the photos, as I assumed that images of the DH would be embargoed till December 20th.
were those pictures of the inside of the dream home?
Apparently so.
that is cool thanks for the fine
You're welcome!
Great find — thanks for the link!
No problemo, CplusE
ooh… ahhh….. <3 the photos of the 2011 HGTV dream home.
Thanks, Deerspring!
I'm checking out that link shortly
Another Super Sleuth! Good job TaniaGail. The pics and article are great!
Thank you for finding this great job! How beautiful this DH is. One of the things I am so pleased about is the reference to the clawfoot bathtub. Originally they were not going to use the feet and I protested because that is what makes the tub so special. But in your pictures and in the videos the clawfoot bathtub still has it's feet. We will know for sure when we get to see the virtual tour. Thanks again!
As for that remarkable kitchen, with its soaring vaulted ceilings, exposed timbers and all of its bells and whistles, my dream is to be served a stack of piping hot blueberry pancakes with melted butter and smothered in Vermont maple syrup, then sit back to enjoy breakfast while I take in that awesome mountain scenery…and soak up the incredible stroke of luck that got me there…when HGTV President Jim Samples hit that computer keyboard and up popped the name of DB Coop. Imagine his surprise, and then imagine mine!
I myself am verry excited that the vitual tour is almost here. Thanks for the teaser super fan Gail. I think my favorate part about this year's dream home is the spaw. Not to mention erverthing is already perfect for me. The insulation of the home is thick, the floor's are all heated , what a owsome idea.. And olf course the amazing views of this years HGTV dream home. So of course this home will be perfect for me. and i am so so verry excited as well. I look frward to the tour that's going to open up on the 20 th of december. I just got some bad news that i have been a victom, when some one broke into my storage unit that my stuff was in , and the stole some verry important stuff , that can not be replaced. I do not like theives at all.
White Christmas
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
Just like the ones I used to know
Where the treetops glisten,
and children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmases be white
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmases be white
I am really hoping, just like someone else said earlier, that they put at least one Chrismas tree up. I don't know if they will, but it would be nice, because this is the perfect home to spend Christmas in. Love it.
Love that birch bark mirror in the Master Bath!
Love all the 'REAL' trees in the lower level of the Dream Home!!
Looks G.R.E.A.T. !!!!
Just wanted to share Superfans facebook status today!
"I love how my bloggers find out all of the details of the Dream Home before they are released!!!! (IE LEGITIMATE photos etc)….You guys rock
"
Hahaha we love you too Gail!
So, she read my comment – cool!
On a side note: In paragraph four, from an article CplusE previously posted, HGTV states: The DH sweepstakes will be officially announced DURING the New Year’s Day Rose Bowl broadcast.
Either they are buying ad time—-or maybe they are bringing the DH Float onto the field at half-time. Here's the link: http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/article/201012…
From all the awesome videos and photos of the DH popping up here and there—There's a Santa or two in disguise somewhere at HGTV headquarters—–and they're having fun—–and I thank them—–this DH is so gorgeous——six more days until the magic of the 20th!!!!
Oh I just saw the photos . I am in love with the downstairs den!
I agree, the den, bunk room, and all of it is beautiful——and perfect for a crowd of friends and family to crash for a fun ski week-end.
So agree with you!!
Be still my heart!!!! I just got an email from James Taylor's camp saying he will be performing one day only on New Year's Eve in STOWE, VT!!!! Can you imagine ringing in the new year with James Taylor in Stowe????
Mary you've got to score some tickets and hold a contest for we bloggies! PRETTY PLEASE???????
I second that! If I had the tickets, I would even provide the transportation! I love JT. Saw him with Carol King last spring.
My girlfriend and her husband took my husband and me to see JT in Central Point, Oregon, a year ago for our anniversary!!! It was FABULOUS!!! Ahhhhh!!!!
It is so good to see you Debra G. We thought we saw you awhile back so we wrote you a welcome back song and then we didn't see you again. We see boomer is back and the ones I can think of that are missing is SandyLA and Reneelovesgreen. Sorry the Army in me takes over and I think I am responsible for taking roll call here on the HGTV DH Blog. Anyway is this the James Taylor you are talking about? We like his music alot. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qx1gug9WJFk&NR…
Oh gosh, I am sorry I missed the song! I will have to go back and look for it:-) the video didn't open up but it is the James Taylor of sweet Baby James fame. Things were very busy this summer but are slowing down now, for me (well, except for Christmas!). So glad to be back
Soney and I will try to find it for you when we get a chance. It is the same James Taylor. Sometimes when I post a video it stops and starts don't know what causes that. Here is sweet Baby James! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EoNd_maBbY
Sounds like it would be a wonderful evening out if the roads are plowed.
JT will also be touring begining in February with his son, Ben. Ben made a statement to the
effect that the experience has already deepened his respect for his dad. His "Sweet Baby James"
lullaby would soothe me. I wonder if he sang it to his kids when they were young.
Well I know he wrote that song as a gift to his nephew when he was born. JT's brother and sister in law named their son after James, thus “sweet baby James”.
If you go to this link that Deerspring provided under TaniaGail's find:
http://pmillervermont.wordpress.com/
You can click on the pictures and zoom in on details that are so clear you can read the titles of books on the tables! Sorry Cami, but those are Hershey's Kisses on the coffee table, not Lindor Truffles (I guess Lindt is not a sponsor this year, unfortunately, but Kisses will do in a pinch)! If your computer lets you zoom in even more, you can see even more detail!
There are three children's books by Stephen Huneck about a black Lab named Sally in the ski dorm (Sally Goes to the Farm, … to the Vet, … to the Mountains). I am so glad to see some of his works in the DH!
Thank you C&E for posting the names of Stephen Huneck's books. Soney loves to have me read stories and I thought I would get him one of the Sally books. Stephen Huneck is the same man that owned the Dog Chapel. He was a sculptor and was the artist that decided to upset the apple cart and use his art work featuring a black lab on the Vermont Mystic Apple Pie box. When Cami was craving apple pie so bad I sent her that video. I didn't know he wrote books too. I looked him up on the internet and unfortunately got bad news. He was such a talented man. I felt like I lost a personal friend. He overcame a near death experience and recovered from that but losing everything he worked so hard for was too much for him to take. The world has lost a true artist. http://www.wcax.com/global/story.asp?s=11804499
I just finished looking at Stephen Huneck's website. Thank you so much for posting this info. The angel labs were especially moving for me as I just lost my lab Amber on November 28th. I love that Stephen Huneck built a dog chapel. He was a special person.
Sorry to hear about Amber that is very hard to go through. When I lost my last dog Honey I was so hurt and angry. She died because of the food she ate was contaminated and was being recalled. It took me a long time to get over it. I didn't think I could find another dog as smart and loving as Honey. But I did. I swore I would research all his dog food and get him the best. Unfortunately he is allergic to everything but the kitchen sink almost. But Mud Bay here in Seattle helped find the right combination and Soney is doing great. Hang in there it hasn't been very long ago. Remember all the good times you had with precious Amber that helps.
Thank you so much. I remember when they recalled a lot of dog food a few years ago. Amber had food allergies, but they were minor.
I signed up for a newsletter on the Stephen Huneck site and right after I read your comment to me last night I received one with the last Sally story he wrote. It was called "Sally Goes to Heaven". If you think I didn't cry my eyes out you're wrong!
I will get another rescue dog in a few months. No more puppies for me.
I've been a fan of his for a while — I actually have one of his Dalmatian angel Christmas tree ornaments that I got before I even knew who he was. I read about his death months ago and was sad to know that he was gone — he was a person with a wonderful vision. I hope to own more of his artwork in the future, even if I don't win the DH!
This is a wonderful link, thanks for moving it forward. There isn't a room in this home that doesn't beckon you to walk in, sit down, and relax. Linda has placed 62 pieces of art in this home—-how awesome is this? The article by Peter Miller is beautifully written, and gives a wonderful insight into the aritist. Thanks for sharing. Monday morning is going to be so much fun on this blog. Can't wait.
I hope the bowl remains even if the kisses disappear like they have in previous years.
You are right CplusE….. you can see the books pretty good when you click on the pictures and click again to zoom it out bigger.
First Floor Gathering Room off of the Kitchen and stairwell……..has:
8 Books to the right of fireplace…… "CABINS", "HORSES", etc.
7 Books to the left of fireplace…… "MAJORCA" (Spain?), etc.
4 Books on the coffee table where the pinecones and silver wrapped chocolate kisses are……..
"Quite A Sightly Place……a family dairy farm in Vermont " by David Middleton http://thelightroomlab.com/2010/06/book-review-qu… "Lake Champlain", "Stowe ——- New Wetland", and a book by Peter Miller ( http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/OurBroker or http://www.amazon.com/Smart-Swarm-Understanding-C… ).
2 Books on the hassock that has green apples on it……. "America…….." , "Vermont……." .
Thank you TaniaGail for the link. I spent quite some time there zooming in and out. I am disappointed though that there was not a photo on that site of the KITCHEN. Guess I'll have to wait for the tour. Only six more days. Yippee! :p
You are most welcome, Moon_Lady.
I happened upon the photos by chance, well, more like googling the names of the artists whose work is on display in the Dream House.
Also, I wasn't sure if photos taken by the press or artists in this case were embargoed until the official unveiling on December 20th – six long days away
As a confirmed bibliophile, I was excited to see some of the book titles that Linda W. has chosen for the DH. On the gathering room coffee table are:
Quite a Sightly Place: A Family Dairy Farm in Vermont, by David Middleton;
Vermont Gathering Places, by Peter Miller (yes, the photographer!);
Lake Champlain: An Illustrated History, by Adirondack Life;
Stowe: Classic New England, by Peter Oliver.
Other titles I can sort of make out include "Vermont" and "America" on the ottoman, "Cabins", "Horses", "Celtic World" and "Majorca" on the shelves in front of the windows, and in the downstairs family room the top book on the coffee table is "Baby Animals" (aaawww, so cute!). And I mentioned in an earlier post that several childrens' books by Stephen Huneck are in the ski dorm (love his artwork!).
Thanks for all of the great reads, Linda — if I win the DH I will definitely be spending a lot of time perusing all of these wonderful books!
The books on the ottoman are:
Vermont: A Seasonal Celebration, by Paul Boisvert;
America: A View from Above, by Peter Skinner and Jim Wark
Beautiful books — I'd love to see them!
I agree, Linda has done a great job with this selection of books—-there's a multitude of great reads for every age. ……..and there can never be too many books.
I'm wrapping presents tonight—with a whole lot of "help", of sorts, from Khaz and Simi (my kitties). Christmas CD's playing—ribbons and tags, boxes and bows, and miles of wrapping paper—and these are some of their favorite things.
This is a cute dog and cat video singing Jingle Bells.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBar2RwOtHY LOL
I did see monica pederson today on tv, and she is who i thought she was, however i am already excited about the location of this years HGTV dream home location, becouse it does look like a post card. I get more excited with each day it comes closer and closer to when we will be able to see the homes inside when the online tlur gets started. It's allmost time. Then we will be able to enter this years beuitifull HGTV dream home givaway. I am going to waite only becouse i have no choice. My storage shed got broken into lost night and i lst a lot of valuable items. Not sure what all i did lose yet , but i am still verry discusted. Why do people have to steel something i have worked so hard to accuire? It's news to me. Thanks to Gail for the new video, and look frward to seeong her new vidio in a couple more day's. This yeear's HGTV dream home is perfect for me, Becouse there will be s much i can do to keep myself verry busy ervery day i can do somethind different. Thanks dream team fr letting me be another dreamer.
Sorry about your loss. I hope either you or the storage company have insurance to cover your loses.
Thanks., But the man and woman who runs that storage units told me that they are not responsible. I said so what can we do and he told me that i should of had insurance. I haven't been able to see what all i lost, besides they took some of my state 20 cent pices from the 50 states. I only wish that i knew who riped me off. I feel , well i am not verry happy
It need's to snow for christmas , so we can have snow on the ground for christmas this year for the first time in 10 year's. it sraining and starting to snow outside.
Good Morning All
Looking forward to a white Christmas….
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Yg5g_Xl-uU&fe…
Thanks! Great song — and Bing was so young in that movie!
Just checked out your gardening blog. Very cool. Put it in my favorites for later garden planning. Thanks
Thanks for checking out the blog
I like this DH 2011 FAQs page, which tries to answer all of those pesky contest entering questions:
http://www.hgtv.com/dream-home/hgtv-dream-home-20…
This is also the place where info about tours of the house will be posted, so keep checking periodically if you want to go on the tour!
Here is a little more info about HGTV's coverage of the Tournament of Roses Parade:
http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/12/14/hgtvs…
I didn't realize it was broadcast commercial-free — how great is that? Paula Deen will be the Grand Marshall, and she is always a lot of fun!
I love the description of the snow-covered rooftop in chrysanthemums and the variety of flowers to create the autumn colors of the eleven trees on the float. Great article thanks for the link.
From the December 20 Virtual Tour and on we are going to keep our selves so busy, It's going to be crazy with all the Virtual traffic outside the DH and all the Voting for both the House and the Gifts I just can wait. Oh and I was able to see my first photos of the House Thank's to Tania Gail, Linda does a wow job from the Master Bathroom to the Ski Dorm to that wonderful Gourmet Kitchen I am so exited and I will have my computer fixed by the 20 to be ready for the Tour because I don't want to missed a thing
A little more info about the high-tech electronics in the DH:
http://www.electronichouse.com/article/dream_home…
"…. For this 15th annual HGTV Dream Home Giveway—a 3,400-square-foot , ski-in, ski-out lodge-style home in Stowe, Vt.—Lutron is supplying a variety of devices, including its RadioRA 2 lighting control system, Sivoia QS wireless automated shading system, Maestro switches and Pico remote controls. "
Hmmmm, this article also says the 2011 Dream Home has 3,400 sq, ft. also. In the beginning someone pointed out that it only was said to have 3,200 sq. ft. So where is the extra 200 sq. ft. ?
Maybe a narrow 25' X 8' Loft room in the Car Barn (garage)?
Hmmm…….
Even this note on HGTV's older page says a 3,000 sq. ft. Dream Home. Which is correct?
Did they add on 400 more sq. ft.?
"The 15th annual HGTV Dream Home is located at Spruce Peak in Vermont's Stowe Mountain Resort. The 3,000-square-foot mountain lodge is nestled in the gaze of Mount Mansfield and features three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen and creative living spaces. "
Pix & Floorplans http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/photo_template/articl…
I talked to Rebuilding Together Seattle today and they gave me a tentative date of April 30th but that date could change. I told her I don't care how long it takes I am just so excited and honored that they approved us and are going to help us fix up our little DH. Each job has to have a sponsor, volunteers and supplies and that takes time. She was telling me that HGTV is one of their sponsors. Anyway Soney and I have a list of to dos to make their job easier! I am just so excited it is almost like winning a Dream Home! HGTV you are great!
This is awesome!!!!!!!! What a great Christmas present for you two! You and Soney will have 110% support from all of our bloggers, that's for certain. Wow how awesome would that be if HGTV signs on as your sponsor? Can't wait until everyone reads your post.
Thank you MeKhazSimi for being our friends! Soney and I have a lot of things we need to go through and donate. We donate to the Center for the Blind. Soney has a lot easier time getting rid of things than I do. He just tosses it up in the air a few times then tears it to shreds. Me I think maybe I can use that some day. But now I think somebody else will enjoy this the way I did when I got it. Thanks for your kind words. Soney and I are really happy that they are going help us fix up our little DH.
I am very happy to hear about your good fortune Alice. I am sure you and soney will enjoy the changes.
Thanks so much EdinOregon. Soney and I are really happy about this and feel very fortunate. Have to thank the Seattle Vet Center for recommending me and helping me fill out the application. Thanks again for all your support.
Great news! Keep us posted, Alice, and let us know if you have pictures up anywhere — I would love to see the transformation!
Thanks C&E and thanks for reminding me to take pictures. Soney and I were just going to take our time and fix things in our little DH when we had the time and the money. This is really a dream come true. From what I understand it is quite exciting. They bring in a big crew of volunteers and they all do different jobs at the same time. I never heard of Rebuilding Together Seattle before but it is in many US cities just replacing Seattle with the name of their city. Thanks again C&E.
I knew it, I knew it, I knew it all along — there really is a Santa Claus! And he and his elves are going to be dropping in on Alice and Soney's house before long to lend them a helping hand, or paw, or hoof, or whatever. Wonderful news.
We all send our best holiday wishes to Rebuilding Together, their partners, HGTV, and our congratulations to fellow HGTV dreamers and bloggers Alice and Soney!
Thanks so much DBCoop. Yes there really is a Santa Claus! This is the best Christmas present ever! Thank you for your kind words. And thanks to HGTV for being a proud sponsor of Rebuilding Together along with many other wonderful sponsors. Happy holidays to you and your family and friends too.
thanks, nice to know
Hi, Merry Christmas everyone. I love the last week before Christmas, it's like beginning the last chapter of a book and I can't wait to find out the ending, (although I usually read the ending just so I can settle down and enjoy the story—never mind it's just the Aries I am) —-and it's "5 " days until the DH reveal!!! Yes, life is good.
Wow! There are a few of you who've been looking in every nook and cranny for hidden HGTV gifts. I say….WAY TO GO!! YIPPEEEE!!! Thank you for sneaking around, risking life and limb for the good of the blog family.
Ya know, momma always told me if I knew what I was gettin' for Christmas I wouldn't have anything to look forward to… I guess surprises just get better with age, 'cause I couldn't be more excited, and can't wait to see the entire present we'll get to feast our eyes on, come December 20th.
MERRY CHRISTMAS BLOG FAMILY!!!
Hi Hope your Christmas vacation to-do list if right on schedule. Merry Christmas to you and your family too.
I've had a crazy busy week with a college course. Crazy busy is going to be the norm. in my life for the next few years…. Uhhh, probably for the rest of my life. Bummer…. No more lazy blogging days. Blogging here has been fun, relaxing, and at times even exciting, but all good things must come to an end. If I'm going to have a career, I need to start now before it's time to retire.
Vacation plans are still a go. So go I must!!. I'll check in once in awhile. I hope I can blog on the 20th, if not enjoy all the views.
OK I'm going to quit while I'm ahead or behind here this morning, posted on wrong place. You're right, your life is going to be crazy -making for quite awhile—-and one day you will look back on all of this and marvel at how in the world did you get through all of it—and it will all have been worth it. You're very wise, and brave to be continuing your education while carrying the balancing act of caring for your family—not an easy feat at all. Hopfully you won't lose track of —taking time out "just for you" from time to time—-so very important. (sorry if I'm lecturing-my daughter-in-law listens to these too from time to time).
We will miss your light-hearted daily posts, but hopfully by "DH clue time" you will at least post for a minute or two a few times a week—-somehow it won't be the same without the banter between you and Coop—it's so great to read. Merry Christmas. LOL
I like the curtains in the bunk room that give the bunkbeds some privacy. I'm curious to see where the bunk guests put their clothes. I don't see any dressers. I thought there would be drawers under the bunkbeds. I think there is some type of bookcase/shelves (saw it in the cabinet drawings). Can't wait for the full reveal!
YES, the curtains are a great idea. Some may want to have a light on so they can read or write while in bed…….. then they won't bother others. Wonderful room! Or some may want to go to sleep early and block the room lights.
Wonder if the eight kids from the TV show "Kate plus Eight" have seen this Dream Bunkroom?