Jan
28
Design Ideas from HGTV Dream Home
Happy Friday!
Today, Super Fan shares some decorating ideas from HGTV Dream Home 2011. Replicating these looks at home would be a cinch.
Before we get to the video, I thought I’d address some blog questions.
What is the speed limit on the road near HGTV Dream Home 2011?
Speed limits are five miles per hour on Lift Line Drive and 50 miles per hour on Mountain Road.
Can the winner rent out HGTV Dream Home 2011 to vacationers?
Yes. Home owners in Spruce Peak occasionally rent out their homes.
Will there be powder for winter activities when the home is given away in March?
Most likely. Visit UVM.edu to check snow depths at the top of Mt. Mansfield
Shall I dare dream to win this amazing house???? My kids are avid snowboarders and would just be in heaven to ski right out the door. Stowe looks like a wonderful neighborhood….I know theres so many people who entered this and maybe some really need a home to live in…If I win this it will be a new beginning for my family..a much needed new beginning!!! The dream team did such a wonderful job with this house, I watch the video of it everyday just hoping and praying that I win. I never won anything and know this is a would truly be a dream come true
I was wondering if there were management companies, that could take care of the property and also rent out the home occassionally while your away?
Yes there are I found a couple when I searched property management Stowe
Another day another entry or two!
GOOD MORNING ALL BLOGGERS,
Just trying to catch up. You see my winter classes began and I've been so busy with them I haven't been on the blog site to read that much. But I'm glad to see some new blood. I hope you all wish me luck on my classes they are so very important to me. I'm going for paralegal – with the end result down the street to be an attorney fighting for the rights of the survivors of sexual abuse – the ones that fall through the cracks because they can't make the lawyers millions upon millions of money.
Now back to that house. To all of you that are still wondering if you should be dreaming of owning that home. I say yes. Dream away. One of us – at least I hope it's one of us, will win it. So why should we not dream of our new home in the process. I dreamt of the new (used) car I wanted and my dream came true. I wanted a Toyota version of a Dodge Minivan and I got it. It has the power side door and everything. So you see dreaming does pay off.
So – I am dreaming, praying, and entering every single day to be the winner of this gorgeous dream home.
The Dream Home is what our family has talked about for years. The Kennedy's have Hyannis, MA; We
want our family compound in VT. Though we love VT more in the summer than winter, as the outdoor
concerts, county fairs and the lush green mountains with majestic Lake Champlain within 45 minutes
of Stowe. We lived there before and look forward to being 'back home again'.
This weekend saw some unusual weather in northern Vermont, with storms that brought thunder and lightning, snow, sleet and freezing rain. Thundersnow is rare in Vermont, so it was an extraordinary event for lots of folks. Most thundersnow storms occur in the Plains and Rockies.
With more freezing temps on the way, and snow accumulations predicted through midweek, I think that the best place to be in Stowe would be tucked comfortably into an armchair of HGTV's Dream Home 'treehouse' Annex. Maybe I'll be lucky enough to have that opportunity next winter if I win this dreamy Spruce Peak mountain lodge.
How Sweet It Is!
All folk legends Mr. CooperNova, ( Lessie's word) know how to plan for winter storms. In your gourmet HGTV kitchen you will be able to whip up some of the most tantalizing breakfasts, and of course your family, friends and entourage of HGTV bloggies would love a Sample of your fixings. Let it Stowe, let it Stowe, let it snow. I've even figured out how to make sprouted wheat pancakes that are almost as good as the real McCoy.
Hmm, sprouted wheat pancakes, Janzee? I've certainly had whole wheat pancakes, but don't remember every having sprouted wheat hotcakes. I'm sure they'd go great with Vermont maple syrup.
They would have to be, right?, The Vermont maple syrup could help drone out the slight sprouty taste. What you do after you sprout the hard red winter wheat is dry it, in a food dryer, and then ground the little wheat berries in a Vita Mix. Voila you now have a flour that should be considered glutenless, and adding all the ingredients and then some, maybe some almonds, and real vanilla bean with nutmeg, will make an amazing griddle cake. This hardy meal is also protein worthy of the long winter igloo cold nights in Stowe.
All snuggled up watching it snow out those beautiful windows hugging our Vermont Teddy Bears and listening to this. http://il.youtube.com/watch?v=VJDmz2O4Lss&fea…
We also had thunder and lightening here in the thumb of Michigan. It woke me up at about 4:00 A.m. and I thought I was dreaming until I "spoke" to friends on facebook! I was NOT dreaming. We were all amazed since we did get 13" of snow.
I regret to say that I can barely imagine what thundersnows must be like. How wild! Now, and I'm just here to state the facts and nothing but the facts. Since I can't tell a lie, at least not knowingly, I have to tell you that today the temp was mid-70's, and moving up into the high 70's over the coming week.
I'd break the great weather news as gently as I could, but there's no other way to say it, other than, BOY, does that warm sunshine feel good. Okay, throw snowballs if you must….
I am jealous Coop. It was only 58 here today! I remember lightning during a blizzard twice. It is unbelievable how bright the world became during those instances!!!!!
Get in line Coop…….. many here also want to wake up in the Stowe Dream Home!!!!
I'm willing to walk there……..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeuNxMY_5Uo
Never look down on anybody, unless you're helping them up!
HGTV wisdom.
Just finishing some projects around my house and staging to sell it if we should be so lucky, and a thought crossed my mind. Do you think John Gidding comes with the house?? LOL He's so dreamy…hope my hubby reads this-he'd get a big chuckle and expect nothing less from me! Okay, back to cleaning and then settling down for some recorded Holmes on Homes (love that guy, too) before the big game starts!
MY DAUGHTER AGREES!
Maybe John could be the new Cary Grant or
Clark Gable (his smile is like Clark's).
Happy Super Bowl Sunday. What a Dream house to have a Super Bowl party in! Just have to wait till next year when me and my fiancee have won. Well… I guess it would be okay if my son won. I think he'd let us come up once in a while. Enjoy the game all –
COUNTDOWN SAYS 12 Days —- 00:05:04
It's Superbowl Sunday!!! I'm going with the Steelers unless the Packers are winning. My team is out, so whoever wins is ok with me!
Happiness is : Having winter activities planned ,, but also, spring, summer and fall as well. Husband mountain biking, ( something he definitely enjoys) ! What a fantastic thought of biking thru this beautiful area., exploring on long hikes, taking in all its natural beauty, strolling thru town, shopping the shops, stopping for lunch, and introducing ourselves to everyone as the their new "HGTV Dream Home winner" neighbors. Like I said, this home is very Do- able for us. I can "feel" us being here, and being part of this great family orientated community. And sharing with our family and friends. Can't wait for the drawing. Good luck to everyone and blessings to the winner
Countdown 11 days left for the sweepstake entries….:'( Sure hope I win this Dream home 2011…It is just perfect!<3
Superbowl Sunday is here! IMAGINE WATCHING THE GAME IN THE HGTV'S DREAM HOME xD
Best Wishes everyone……
Hello Fellow Dreamers ~ My husband and I just spent a couple of days up in Stowe. We went XC skiing one day at the Trapp Family Lodge, and on the second day at Stowe Mountain Nordic Center. Both were exceptional, but our favorite was at Stowe Mountain Resort. We had never been to Stowe together, and we absolutely loved it! We are seriously thinking about retiring there. Florida is not for us! We plan on going back to bike, hike and visit the many waterfalls in the area. We had a beer after skiing at this place named "The Shed" that crafted their own beer and played classic 60's and 70's rock n' roll. The patrons ranged in age from 21 to 70. We also had dinner at a restaurant called Harrisons in downtown Stowe. It has a cozy, rustic feel to it, and the food was excellent. We drove by the Dream Home, and I have to say it lived up to my expectations. It is not as close to the road as I expected, and it is well off the busier Mountain Rd., and that is'nt that busy. We didn't have time to tour the inside because we were busy skiing, but I am confident that the inside is as it appears on HGTV!! We hope to get back up skiing there one more time before the winner is picked. I will update you with anymore new finds if that happens. Hopefully, we will get to go again in March if we win!!!!! Keep dreaming and take care.
Sounds like you had a great time!
Heard that the Dream Home on the the snowy hill has Hersey's kisses in a bowl in the Gathering Room! For Valentine's Day I am going to pile my snow into a big hill so I can form a huge Hersey KISS for everyone out in my yard. Will cover it with red foil wrapping paper (pressing it in to keep its KISS shape). Bought some of that huge ribbon for making bows at Menards. It has wire in it. Going to stick it into the top of the BIG KISS …… just like the little Hersey Kisses… with the paper (ribbon) sticking UP into the air! LOL
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY (a little early)
What a cool way to celebrate Valentines Day!
? <DIV>Sorry it took me so long to respond. Yes, it is higher up on a hill than I expected. I love your Hersey kiss description. I hope you got to your Valentine decorations as described…….very elaborate. Maybe you should get a job with HGTV! Well, I've been busy since I got back with work. I work out of my home, but I keep dreaming of working out of the DREAM home. It could be distracting though with such beautiful views. I hope you had a nice V-day!! Take care.</DIV> <DIV style=”FONT: 10pt arial”>
What a great trip, trekker. Thanks for the report. And if I happen to win the home when March rolls around, I'll give you a detailed account of my first visit, room by exciting room!
? <DIV>Thanks for your comment, and I apologize for such a late response. I have been busy with my job since I got back. I work out of my home and I keep dreaming of working out of the DREAM home! If I win in March, I will definitely give you a detailed description. I love to cook and I think I could spend some serious time in that kitchen!! Take care!</DIV> <DIV style=”FONT: 10pt arial”>
What's up with this? Everyone in my house is rooting for the Packers. I'm the only one rooting for the Steelers. They're making me a Packers fan!!!! But never count out the Steelers until the final score.
Can we count the Steelers out now Lessie? ^_^ I must admit I was rooting for the Packers too. Their quarterback went to my Alma Mater.
You were a California Golden Bear, Ed?
Yes M'am. Interesting times. My first semester there, the free speech movement demonstrations started.
Too funny Ed! Yes, count'em out. In fact, they're with the Ravens telling playoff stories. I think I heard them saying, "just wait til next year." My reply, "For what, we've heard that before."
Yes, sadly, the Terrible Towels are going to be tucked away in the closet for another year. But on the bright side it is quite awesome that the only "community owned team left in the NFL" WON the trophy! How great is this? LOL
Thanks MeKhazSimi for sharing the bright side–one I agree with wholeheartedly. The Packer community is certainly enjoying this win.
I'D WALK 500 MILES…… to get to this dreamy Stowe HGTV Dream Home!!
If I win!
(Enjoy this GREAT music!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69AvNm8zubo
What a lucky girl you are. But I would've taken time out to take the tour, no matter what.
This is the kind of story you could tell in Stowe up at the DH, or the lodge after a long day of skiing, hiking, or traversing the many trails. It's a true story told by our verry own RJMstone.
Story by RJMstone
Remembering that advenure of mine brought back a memory of a true story my dad told me. Dad and some relatives on vacation were getting up early, eatting a big breakfast and going deer hunting. Well, I know my dad…. after a BIG breakfast, he needs a nap. And so…. he fell asleep sitting on the ground, leaning up against a big old apple tree. He wakes up and was wondering what noise woke him. (He knew he had fallen asleep, because of the drool on the left corner of his mouth.) He sat very still as he heard something walk a bit closer.
Then he heard the buck's snort and saw his snorting breathe coming from around the other side of the tree. The buck might have been there for the old apples or was curious about that strange sounding (snoring) animal that he heard. LOL Big antlers can be dangerous, so Dad pumped the gun and the noise scared the deer away. He wasn't going to shoot him unless he had to, but wanted to scare him away. That was just too close he said. He thought that big giant of a deer (yes, he caught a glimpse of the buck running away) could have hurt him anytime while he was asleep….. BUT THE DEER DIDN'T. (He just woke Dad up so he would go home.) After that Dad decided not to deer hunt any more. Wanted to let these deer families enjoy the apples and naps in the tall grass just like he had done. ( Dad shoots with a camera now. He has some amazing pictures of wildlife on the wall. One of tiny twin fawns hiding in the tall grass.)
Thanks for relaying such a lovely story, Janzee. RJMstone, that story made my day ! Your dad was wise to learn from the opportunity that blessed him……..The "shots" he takes now give so much joy to people, far beyond what hunting for deer would have given him.
Dearest Coleman, your comment is beautiful. Stone's story reminded me so much of the original Grimm Brothers research collected from real people in villages who had rich cultural and language experiences and eventually these stories became folk legends. When I commented originally on the main board, I had included something about bringing home deer meat from a hunt-as I look back it was slightly pretentious as I have never hunted. Then I read Stone's earnest account, and just like you it spoke to the core of my being. I learned a valuable lesson from the story, that offered another point of view. I think that the greatest movies, and stories spark huge interest because they are crafted from real life experiences, and the language of truth is the spark. Stone and so many on this site have great gifts.
The only reason I rooted for the Green Bay Packers, is that one of our students from our
local high school played for them for a few years in his adventure into the outside world.
He hasn't played since. It was a great game played by both sides. Yeah for the winners
who were both teams.
The annex looks good for remembering the game wrapped in a warm blanket. Would it
be very cold there with just all those windows? Is there some type of insolation? Help I
need warmth.
Just got home today and do I have some travel stories that I will relate tomorrow!! Good Luck!
SandyLA, I remember a tour video where Jack T was talking about the highly rated windows that can withstand anything the VT climate can dish out. Also the floors have radiant heating, so I imagine it will be cozy even w/ the high ceilings. I am sure the house is well insulated. HGTV Pro site has all the details.
Remember the floor has radiant heat! And the fireplace is a few feet away.
Travel stories and winning Dream Home stories are all good, SandyLA. We'll look forward to hearing some, well, travel stories anyway. The winning story we'll all have to wait for a little longer.
Okay, the Packers won, and take home the trophy. Now since tomorrow is Monday, the start of a new week and a new beginning, what surprises will MARY have in store for US? What prize bit of news, what exciting piece of information, what amazing adventures will she lead us to? Now that MARY's got the ball, I hope she runs for a touchdown, right here in the Dream Home blog!
Hey…. I'm setting out my Packer's kleenix box!
Mary…….. free tickets to the Dream Home?
Show me the "Musical side to the Dream Home" please. How would someone use the system…. for daily use, for parties, for any special occasion, etc. THANKS
I'm going to have to take my laptop to school tomorrow just so I can keep an eye on Mary holding the Urban Oasis ball; that she's had for over a week now. I fear she's not going to make MVP at this rate.
–Hey! You can't throw out a penalty for me speaking the truth. Mary is hogging the ball, and running around in circles; never turning any corners, or making touchdowns for that matter. In all fairness to Mary though….
Perhaps Mary didn't even receive the ball, maybe it's Jack, the team captain/quarterback's fault for not calling the right plays, or maybe he was tackled right as he received the ball. Perhaps he made a sneaky handoff to another player and the guy fumbled. So many possibilities to consider. The referee– the coach, the cheerleaders etc.
I know one thing for sure, it's not the spectator's fault.
Glad the Packers won, although I was at a party with die-hard Steelers fans, so I had to remain subdued. Wouldn't it have been amazing if Aaron Rodgers, the MVP, had said when asked what he was going to do next, "I'm going to the Stowe, Vermont, HGTV Dream Home!"
Yes, it's high time someone starts running interference around here—-kick that field goal into the Urban Oasis—cross that last one yard line and touchdown at the DH.
Although, maybe Mary;s trying to cut a deal in the back room—-trading in that football for a bucket of golf balls ——–and she's headed West to sunshine country. Hopefully she's going let us in on this new deal——–very soon.
i was wondering how much the transfer fees and closing costs and fees come to on that and the taxes and insurance ???? will that take care of the 500,000?????
Not sure, but that $500,000 will come in handy and give you a bit of cushion until you can find employment in Stowe to afford the taxes, utilties and upkeep. I'd love to work at the Stowe Hardware store! My hubby said he'd quit his job and start a photography business. Plus, if you can sell your home (if you have equity), that may add to your cushion. Hope we can get some approximate figures on this…great questions.
There are so many practical matters to be concerned with. I wonder can someone list all the things that one must pay for for this home – practically speaking, of course.
People have, but you have to search, as others post to the blogs after that, too. I think CAP57 had many of the answers, so look for that blogger's posts.
We have discussed this and discussed this: IRS, state taxes, real estate taxes, HOA joining fees, monthly fees, etc. If you keep the house you are going to have to get a mortgage to pay all of the taxes or have that much of a nest egg. If you can't qualify for a 300K mortgage – you will probably have to take the cash option. Then there is employment potential if you want to move there. I would have to commute unreasonable distances for a job – so its not for me.
We were thinking the same thing. It'd be comfortable living for a year or two, then the reality would hit that you'd have to land a decent job or two to pay for the mortgage that would help pay for all of the expenses. And hopefully, there is reasonable employment in and around the area- one with good health insurance! My family cannot go without, nor can we afford to insure ourselves outright. Still, we enter each morning determined to make it all work out in the end should we be the lucky ones! Good discussion points…
No you did not understand me- YOU need a mortgage from the start. Total taxes are about 700,000 – far more than the 500K you get. So if you have a few hundred k laying around you will be fine. I wouldn't.
Although I really love the Stowe house, my favorite and MY dream home was last year's……..Looking forward to retirement and that home had it all. I loved the single story floor plan and the separate space for guests. The bunk room in this year's home is nice, but I don't see it getting used all that much unless you have a lot of friends and relatives who ski. As you get older you want to get AWAY from the cold and snow(especially this year!)
I am soooooo excited about this years HGTV Dream home. What a perfect place, for a Bed and Breakfast!!! I have always wanted to open one, and what a (Grand) place for it!! Crossing my fingers, and sitting on them, lol!! Good luck everyone!!!
Happy Monday, MARY and bloggers. Now that I've gotten the formalities out of the way, bring on the good stuff!
Despite some rough patches (snow-wise and economically speaking, around the state) Vermont lawmakers are set to debate whether to make snowboarding the state's official sport. It's said that Stratton Mountain was the birthplace of the sport, and that Suicide Six in Pomfret was the first ski area in the country to allow snowboarding. Unfortunately, similar bills face-planted in 2008 and 2009.
With all of the new snow in the Vermont mountains this winter, perhaps this will be the year that snowboarding plows through the resistence and gains the state's seal of approval.
Regardless of the outcome on the snowboarding vote, I'm giving my seal of approval to the 2011 Dream Home. Hmm, maybe the Vermont legislature should follow suit and consider making HGTV's Spruce Peak mountain lodge the official state Dream Home? I'd sure like to make it mine!
You know when your team is out- the super bowl isn't as important! KC Chiefs fan to the end.
NEWS FLASH
Its become very clear to my family that we will be living OUR Dream when we win the Dream Home in Stowe, Vermont. You (all of the other people entering to win), have to ask yourself do any of the house warming gifts have your last name on them?? Probably not. Then you have to ask yourself did HGTV decide to select the winner on your birthday?? Again, probably not. So the best you can hope for is that we invite you all up for a weekend after we get the keys. I think the home is big enough to have a few friends over!! You are all welcome.
Every year I see people online claiming its their destiny to win because their birth date, anniversary date or other occasion, like St Patrick's day and they're Irish… But in all the years I've been following HGTV dream home giveaways I'm not aware of any former winner claiming they entered, were picked, notified, or received the prize on their birthday or other special day, or because some specific item in the prize package had their name on it. I also haven't seen any of the people claiming their destiny to the prize being the actual announced winner by HGTV. Your entries into the random selection process are just as likely, or unlikely, to win, as all the other millions of entries…
Actually they are due to announce the winner on #1 sons birthday- so yes! I think that involved me- I was the one that gave birth!
I love the Birch Tree Bark group photo idea! My husband is a wonderful amateur photographer and although we have many photos throughout our house, we don't have such a thoughtfully grouped sequence around one main theme. I am going to do this and put it up as a gift to him for Valentine's Day! Thank you so much for the idea. An even better "belated" V-day gift for my husband and children might be a new home…say, sometime in March?? Dreaming every day….
does anyone know the address of the dream home?
138 Ski Club Lane was the address for the former home on the property where the 2011 HGTV dream home is located. Sometimes names and numbers change with new development.
when is the winner announced? when do they get to move in? if you win, are you allowed to sell the house right away?
The winner is publicly announced on the television special, which is currently scheduled to be March 19th. The winner may accept the home portion of the prize and do whatever they want with it, move in or sell the property on their own. In the past the usual dream home prize acceptance time period is 4-6 weeks to complete the appropriate legal paperwork after the winner's scheduled trip to visit the property with HGTV and sponsor representatives.
if someone haas two emails, can they enter with both everyday?
no, they only want people to enter once per day at each online site no matter how many email addresses they have. If you want unlimited entries per day use the snail mail option. For electronic entries they can and most likely will consult other available databases and figure out when people are using multiple identities to enter.
No thats not fair!
If you missed this earlier video with Monica Pedersen at the Stowe Mountain Lodge and the Dream Home as well, it's well worth a watch. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pFNhyy83XI&NR=1
How Sweet It Is!
Thanks for sharing this link, DBCoop. There were several videos that give a wonderful look at the back of the DH from the roadway point of view. These are great.
Keep true to the dream, vermontlover, right to the finish line. When the race is over, the prize is in your hands, THEN you can take all the time you need to reflect and consider each and every option — and make a decision that's right for you. It's amazing how that works. Until then, remember that the sky is NOT falling!
I like your style, DBCoop!!
Good morning everyone. I've been missing reading all your posts…..Lessie, your "test for old kids" is great! It brings back many good memories.
In my brief skim thru the posts it looks like many of the regular bloggers are missing. Hope it isn't a glitch in the system. We are nearing the end of this contest, and it would be very frustrating not to be able to post! I'm thinking maybe I should get busy and send in a couple post cards….maybe on bright orange or lime green paper or something…..just to tip the scale in my direction ….never know, it could finally be a mail in entry that wins!! Or, I could take Ed's advice and buy a Lotto ticket!
I'm hoping that while I am busy on this thread, Mary is busy posting a new one!!
Have a great day everyone….keep on dreaming!
It is a wonderful opportunity for us all! Now everyone I read out there has a dream and here's my own.
I want the HGTV DREAM HOME to be the HGTV DREAM SPA/ BED AND BREAKFAST! I am an International CIDESCO DIPLOMAT and cosmetologist with multiple licenses and I've been looking for the perfect place for some time with no luck..I think this would be perfect. Hope I win it! As I said before.. lots of dreams and only one of us can win..But Good Luck to us all anyway. ..and THANKS HGTV.
I had not heard of only a two room bed and breakfast! Didn't they say the HOA rules said NO to a B & B?
Yes it is only one room for a B&B but then I want to cater to brides and couples. One couple is plenty for facials and massages and breakfasts. I read the rules and it didn't say anything about no B&B's but I'll inquire further. Thanks for responding Nebraska-Good Luck!
It seems to me that if some of the members of the area also rent their homes out to vacationers, that it would be no different than running a B&B. You have the Master Bedroom, The hotel suite room, and the Ski Lodge room for 8 guests. To me that adds up to three areas for different guests every day or week or long weekend. You could easily make $1,500 per day gross revenue as a B&B. Temporarily remodel the garage to hold just one car and use the rest of the space as a single bedroom for a caretaker/cook and housekeeper person.
Thanks for replying gophorguy. I haven't confirmed that it is indeed not allowed to have a B&B but I appreciate your ideas on that possiblity. Especially the idea of a 1 car garage/ half bedroom.. My main dream is the SPA , the couples and bridal getaway. Now it doesn't have to be a B&B to provide that! By the way…What's your Dream for that beautiful space?? I'd love to hear it!
Does anyone know the legal street address of the HGTV 2011 Dream home?
11 days! This is really exciting! I am faithfully entering daily. GoodLuck to everyone! Someones dream (hopefully mine *crosses fingers*) will happen.
Here's another thought…wouldn't it be wonderful to live in a home that would NOT need to be inspected by Mike Holmes!!?
I do have to say I LOVE his show (I think I have seem almost all of them and I'm getting his magazine beginning in March), and if we do not win, we definitely need him to come to our house!
I've watched quite a few of Mike Holmes on Homes' shows on HGTV, and though that guy sure knows his stuff, I have one problem with him — there's ONLY ONE of him! We need hundreds of copies of Mike Holmes around the country to deal with the poor quality of construction that is all too common!
Totally agree!!!!
But he isn't even in OUR country!
I think he should build the next DH! I would love to have a home built by him although I can't really complain about our builder.
BRILLIANT IDEA!!!!!
Mile Holmes is a super hero! Love over the LAND!
I agree, wholeheartedly. It would have to be called the double HGTV dream home giveaway. If Mike Holmes was builder.
I can think of at least one house that would be wonderful to live in and that Mike Holmes might give an enthusiastic thumbs up on — the 2011 Dream Home! That place is built right, solid as the proverbial Rock of Gibraltar, remarkably energy-efficient, and not hard on the eyes either. It's a home where beauty is definitely not only skin deep, it goes right down to the very foundation!
Mary, if you want to post a new blog today, you can. Hope it's one of the storage space, especially the pantry and closets.
We're entertaining ourselves with all the legends on the blog. DCoopernova legend will begin shortly. Don't be surprised if you and Gail are included. Alice of Alice's Restaurant in Stowe shared many stories with me. Can't wait to share them with fellow bloggers.
PS I'm beginning to believe that Alice of Alice's Restaurant is really a blogger in disguise. I think she's Alicesoneysmom.
Lessie,
I too agree that we are excited for a new blog!! We have a lot of very talented people on this site. The poems and research with regards to Stowe are awesome.
Hey, we doing a great job entertaining ourselves.
Dream Big!!!
You betcha, Louisefaith. We've gotten very good at entertaining ourselves when HGTV can't feed our curiosity fast enough. Instead of crying, we resort to other things—researching Stowe or other HGTV sites, demanding new posts from Mary or Super Fan Gail, reviewing pictures we have looked at thousands of times, or sharing stories of blogger legends. Either way, we do whatever it takes until we receive a new post from Mary.
Lessie,
Yes, indeed we do what ever it takes to go forth.
We will continue to research the great area's in Stowe, share our stories, write poetry, view the Dream Home a million times a day. Dream, Dream and Dream.
Have a great day!
Dream Big!!!
You're on the right blog, Louisefaith. Anything worth knowing about Stowe can be found on this site.
Have you heard about Alice's Restaurant, Ed and Babe, or the Stone Keep America Free Movement? Probably so since you're on this blog. But have you heard about BCoopernova and his visits to Alice's Restaurant? Well the story goes like this….
Let me check with Alice one more time to make sure I'm sharing the correct info.
Lessie,
Oh my goodness, I tired to read this Blog today with regards to Alice's Restaurant. It's funny that you mentioned Alice's Restaurant. I had three dogs barking, kids singing about the sky is blue and when are we leaving? Gosh, I so would love to just sit and read all of the Blogs everyday. I am lucky to skim them with the life that goes on in my sweet abode.
Okay, tonight when the kids are sleeping I will sneak onto the computer to search the scoop on Alice's restaurant. You are great Lessie!! The Bloggers are just a wonderful group here-so positive!
Have one great eve!!!!!!
Dream Big!!!
Don't be surprised if you and your family are in the legend stories, Louisefaith. Just giving you a heads up.
Lessie,
Make sure that the Legend of our family begins with me sitting inside the Acadia Denali with shopping bags(Kids new ski wear-Dog sweater's), Ben and Jerri's ice cream (Any Month's flavor will do), and a glass of wine (A dry white wine). The legend will begin when I try to go down a ski slope – Need I say More?
Have a great evening!
Dream Big!!!
That's do-able, Louisefaith. See you in the legend stories.
You guys are so good at story telling and very very funny! Don't need to turn on the tv just tune in to the HGTV blogging network. We were curious and thought we would check to see if there was an Alice's Restaurant in Stowe. We found one in Jay Peak. This isn't a video it is an article about Jay Peak and some history of the restaurant. It is kind of fun to read their comments at the bottom. Thanks for the memories and the entertainment. Soney is in the kitchen now making a pie he said for me not to come in he was going to surprise me. http://weblog.jaypeakresort.com/?p=904
Hey Alicesoneysmom. Alice's Table doesn't seem nearly as great as yours. Your restaurant appears to be the center of activity in Stowe. Can't wait to share all the stories you've told me, especially about BCoopernova. The next time he's at your restaurant, take a picture. I'll help you upload it.
PS I won't tell the other bloggers about MeKhazSimi's crush on BCoopernova and all he whispered in her ear until you finish telling me the rest of the story.
The way you guys write I can picture this restaurant and all the bloggers singing and dancing and having so much fun. Like BCoopernova pushing those swinging doors open and the crowd stops dead in their tracks and you can hear a pin drop. Can't wait for more stories. Funny when you talk about Alice speaking French and whispering. That is me in real life. My words don't come out right and I end up saying silly things. A while back I posted Ms Swan at Starbucks that kind of is the way I sound. People for the most part get a kick out of it and tease me. My favorite restaurant is owned by a Chinese man and he said you are speaking Chinese and I know you are not Chinese! When I go to Starbucks they know me and tell me what I want to order. I told the Barista you are so smart and she said I know! Everybody laughed at that one. On with the show!
You got it, Alice! Will try to get BCoopernova's entrance into Alice's Restaurant today. You have given me the set-up. All I need to do is dress it up with words. Stay tuned because I love what happens in your restaurant!!!
I don't know about leaving a dog in the kitchen to make a pie Alice. Any time one of my dogs made a dog pie in the kitchen, I made the kids go clean it up. At least it wasn't a cow pie! ^_^
alicesoneysmom,
I finally read the article on Alice's Restaurant in Stowe. I had assistance from a little girl that wanted me to read the whole story to her several times before bed time.
Alice Lewis was an independent and strong go-getter. I thought I was busy until I read her story.
It was a very interesting story. Stowe has an incredible history. I think that is why we are all drawn to this Dream Home.
Thank-You for the story.
Dream Big!!!
And talking of dreams, Dream Homes, and life in general, here's a poem by Langston Hughes:
Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow.
Of course, if life was a ski slope, frozen with snow, it wouldn't be quite so bad…but the dreaming part still applies.
That poem is so true!
That's why I love America the Beautifull
and America the Free! Communism sucks the life and dreams away!!
HGTV's Dream Home Contests are the American way!
As American as Vermont maple syrup and apple pie!
Nice poem, and so true.
Coop– another reason you are so fabulous… One of my favorite poems; working with high school students over the years, I have quoted this poem countless times.
Amazing, LLColeman, and I just recently discovered it. Actually, I was looking at poetry by Lucille Clifton, and came across the poem by Langston Hughes. It struck me as just right for the Stowe Dream Home.
Indeed– a perfect fit. you always encourage the dreamers in us. <3
Thanks for posting the poem Coop. Not only does it express what we believe, but it is also a great salute to Black History Month.
Dear Coop, you live by this poem- I can hear it in your words. This is a great time to share, in honor of Black History Month, is food for the soul, and keeps the home fires stoked.
Wow, just 11 days left to vote soon to be 10. Crunch time!! I thought I would pass this information along to some of the bloggers dreaming about this awesome home. It's called, "A winner's tale: Dream Home 2002 Giveaway". Definitely good information to know if you're lucky enough to win. Just type in the information I provided and read the interview of a past winner's experience. Wow, just like winning the lottery if you think about it. Now, HGTV has gotten even better since Milton has won. The car is awesome and they provide more money to the owner. Just keep an open mind from the staff if you win and the experience would be something special (hope it's us) to experience. One way or the other (keep the home or sell), winning will change your life for the better!! Just imagine an HGTV employee planning the big surprise in your home town and you wouldn't even know it? It amazes me that they could pull that off in my small town, lol.
I can tell you that I'm more than ready for the HGTV Surprise Van to pull up to my home and tell me I'm the Dream Home winner. I'd love to join that roster of lucky individuals who've been randomly selected to have their lives changed for the better. Whether I keep the home or sell it is less important than having won and given the chance to move forward with another dream or two as a result.
And planning the big surprise with HGTV behind it should be no problem. My friends would love to be in on it all. Nothing better than putting one over on DBCoop they'd say!
I know, HGTV as their ways! So scarey and thrilling all at once ….. like going down one of those rushing water tubes to a splashing end.
Good luck…. fellow blogger!
Anonymity on the Internet is important, but how will we know if the MIGHTY DBCoop has won the Dream Home so we can celebrate more heartily?
Will you wear Superman black eyeglasses? Or wear a sweater with leather elbow patches like Fred MacMurray (My Three Sons father character)? Or will ya have a Sherlock Holmes pipe in your mouth? Or wear a garb from Turkey or Thailand?
I found my way to a history page for Stowe and it talked about potash… I had to goggle it
Now I feel up-to-date on the bits and pieces of it's rich history.
Well, it's not Saturday night any more, but for testing us older kids – Lawrence Welk & On route 66. Interesting, my daughter is traveling parts of Route 66 right now — she planned to leave the NY blizzards behind, of course, she found snow along the 66 with the recent storm. She ended up in Austin last night but said Super Bowl traffic around Houston was "nil" very cool. And she's found Jo's Coffee in Austin…wake up call.
Interesting bit of history about the potash. As a soap maker I am familiar with potash which is where we get lye to make our soap with. Homemade soap is the best for your skin but you have to be patient as a batch of soap takes a couple of hours to make and 2-6 weeks to cure before using.
Anyone else so excited about the house that they keep losing sleep over it?
You betcha ya!
Nothing another cup of coffee can't alleviate! I've increased my daily dose by one cup since I started entering!! 
Lose sleep over the Dream Home, Gmcloughlin? Never! ….Maybe that's what I'm doing now since I should be in bed.
lol it would be soo nice. but back off it is mine lol
Hey Gmcloughlin, just saw your response. I'm backing off until March 12th. After that, it's yours. Will you display balloons since the Dream Home Team will ambush you?
i was wondering if the street in front of the house was a private driveway or public property and if it would be plowed during a snow storm or will that be the responsibility of the homeowner? thanks
As far as we know the street is public and the homeowners association fee pays to have the street plowed, but the driveway and walk ways remain the homeowner's responsibility.
Bracing for another snow/ice storm here in KS! Will pass the time being snowed in dreaming of the DH. I seem to spend a lot of time doing that anyway. Love,love,love the house!!! Pick me HGTV!!!
I wanted to connect with your regarding your soap making !! I don't know how to directly connect with someone – I only know how to post. If you know how, please chime in :_)
You can e-mail me at naturesblend@hotmail.com
Kansas is certainly having its share of winter weather, Sandra. Maybe next year you can dream about the Dream Home without being snowed or iced in.
We haven't much time left before the key to our beautiful Stowe DH will be handed over to a Winner. Who knows, maybe this year it will be one of our bloggers, who gets to experience their "wildest dream come true" moment. This would be awesome to watch.
I hope it one of our bloggers. Wouldn't that be so awesome
Awesome to watch, MeKhazSimi, if a blogger wins the Stowe Dream Home, but can you imagine the incredible thrill if the winning blogger were YOU!
It would be great if a blogger won this year MeKhazSimi, but if not bloggers will cheer the winner as we always do. Wouldn't it be nice if your wildest dream came true?
This is a very extraordinarily beautiful home…love the terrace, the master bedroom, the master bath, the kitchen and on and on….. hehe Beverly
)
Some people are optimists, some pessimists and I am a pragmatist. Tell me what it is- the unvarnished truth- and I will figure out what is best for me!
You know the cash option still might get you to live in Stowe!
Good point, Nebraska! Never thought about it that way-perhaps my B & B dream in Stowe isn't faraway afterall!
That "HGTV Dream Home 2011" photo at the top of each page here gets me every time!
The golden light in those windows.
The copper-clad chimney.
The snow on the roof.
The sun-kissed mountains behind.
Man, what a beauty!
absolutely !!
HGTV photographers are masterful! That is indeed a great photo Muchomacho.
One of the many things I appreciate about the Dream Home is their use of stone outside on the terrace and around the hot tub. It looks like such a seamless transition to the natural beauty already surrounding the house. Love it totally.
Hello ya! I have been entering for the past 4 yrs and every yr I pray I win the Dream Home, and every yr the home is better and better. Does anyone know how much will the property tax would be?
If the home is your primary residence the property tax rate in Stowe is $1.92 per $100 of assessed value. For non-residents the rate is $2.00 per $100 of assessed value. So if this house is assessed at 1.5 million dollars the annual property tax for a resident would be about $29,000. Don't even want to guess at how much homeowners insurance or utilities would be!
ouch