Jun
3
HGTV Dream Home 2012 Location
At last, we announce the location of our 2012 home. This year, a river will run through the back yard (no joke). If you’d like to learn more about the neighborhood, please visit rivermeadowsranch.com. Jack, take it away …
beehivestate and sherrinut keep the info coming and hopefully some pics!! The only time I would suggest toning it down a bit is if you win the 2012 Dream Home….then you have to do this
Until that time I'm loving all the information you can provide!!!!! 
Got it, lucyourdog! The best part for me is whether or not I win the house, I'm already such a "lucky dog" just because I get to live her all the time already.
Yes you are!!
My hubby just got home from work and had pictures of the home from the top of the mountain. He rode the lift up and took some pics with his cell phone but they didn't turn out
He is going to take our good camera tomorrow…so stay tuned 
Look forward to it!
OK my hubby just told me that he was kidding
I am so gullible. He said he tried but the snow is so deep he had to ski to the top lodge and wasn't able to get a good view of the other side of the mountain. He said not to worry though he will take me up on Tuesday so I can get some pics 
He showed me a picture of (some really famous producer's…at least that's the word around the mountain) home that is currently on hold but will be finished being built once the snow melts. o.0
You & your husband are real troopers ! Please be careful in deep snow–we can wait for photos–the home won't be finished until Sept., so no rush !
That's a funny cliche. At least to me anyways.
So, I got chills when the video started playing and almost started hyperventilating! I was just telling my hubby the other day that when we should take our son to Salt Lake City for skiing/snowboarding next winter because he'd be old enough. For me, this is the ideal and as perfect of a location as you can find for a dream home! Well done, HGTV!
Come on down!
Here's a link to the architects mentioned in irishsprite's post link to the Salt Lake Tribune article:
http://www.jsa-llc.com/index.html
I liked the Shimuzu mountain residence in their portfolio — from the River Meadow Ranch architectural guidelines I got the impression that they are discouraging really tall buildings, and this one is lower than the rest in height. Can't wait to see the renderings and floor plans for Dream Home 2012!
Hi, thanks for the link to their portfolio. From what I can see so far, the DH is completely unique. This company has done many projects in the mountain lodge style, I know this one will be just as great.
I have been googling pictures of "modern Western ranch houses" trying to get an idea of what that will look like but haven't really found anything that seems to fit that description! The Utah Dream Home must be truly unique, and I am looking forward to seeing pictures — I hope you can post some! I don't think you can post directly to this blog, so you will probably have to post them elsewhere and give us the link. If you have your own blog or know how to use Flickr or Photobucket you can link them that way. Thanks for keeping us all up to date on the DH activities!
Wow!!! What fabulous architecture! Very comfy but modern. I think I could live with it!!!;)
It's nice to be reminded at how varied the geological features are in Utah. The Salt Flats- the unique red canyons (Bryce) in Southern Utah–the Salt Lake (the lake)–the snow capped mountains–the rivers–the hills– the valleys–farm and ranch country….. etc. etc. The Dream Home journeys are really the only time I stop to realize how amazing our world really is.
How can heaven be more beautiful? I can't fathom it!!:):|<3<3<3
It's funny Cami that you would be the first post when I refreshed. My wife and I decided to celebrate the old and in with the new. We made a toast to the dream home drinking a Blue Hawaiian. While the kids were napping we even got four games of air hockey in!! The Blue Hawaiian made me think of you and Coop. Utah here we come!! We need a specialty drink from that area. Anyone have one they want to share??
Wellllll uhhmmmm, I'll leave beehivestate to answer that one.:x
I've always wanted rich dark hot chocolate to be the Dream Home's beverage. Ice cream and real chocolate are my favorite hot chocolate toppings.
Now, with that said…. Hot chocolate is about as strong of a drink as a large portion of Utah's residents partake of… besides Nyquil. LOL.
Then there's the other 50 percent who have their own version of strong drink, which I'm sure there's a few places to purchase from.
There are a lot of "Dry" places in Utah, so maybe it will be something like lemonade! ^_^
Oh, no! Having a dry county could be a deal-breaker!
LOL You could always buy elsewhere and transport it home. As far as I know they can't make personal homes dry! ^_^
What goes on at home stays at home!
Cami, they call this area Midway-to-heaven. Because it is.
Is that a suggestion for the name of a drink? If so, I'll take two shaken not stirred please!
Great idea for the drink, "Midway to Heaven," I like that. I'm going to post a funny story about the Mormons and coffee but I'll put it on the other page.
Hey you guys, I just went over there to check it out myself. First off, I want to say it's a beautiful 73 degree day, light breeze, a few clouds, people are out in shorts. It is 2.3 miles from my house to the DH, along River Road, which is a 40 mph two-lane road… this is the country so everybody drives faster than that. Anyway, I will be able to walk down there and back every day to check their progress.
The house is mostly framed in and what you see when you drive up is plywood walls, OSB, and the concrete. There is a mock-up of the stone they will use but I don't know if I should give away the surprise. This house is a two-story (I don't see a basement but I could be wrong). The river is visible from the back of the house but the river is not "right there" where you'd be apt to fall in! I climbed over the split rail fence in back and walked down to the river, it's really in your backyard, a minute's walk at most. The river sits down a little bit from the house, in elevation, I mean.
There were carpenters on the roof putting up the plywood but nobody paid attention to me. I was right close up to the house but I did not step inside. There are security cameras on each corner but no signs that say HGTV Dream House and no "keep out" signs.
I can't tell much about the layout yet but when you look in to where the front entry will be, there is a big staircase on the left. The front of the house faces River Road and the back faces the Provo. There's an incredible unobstructed view of Mt. Timpanogos and every side of the house has views. The land is very flat and the only other house sits a few lots away, not too close, and there are no signs of anything else going in.
This is going to be so over-the-top and I wonder what Linda will do with the art work. The painter Robert Duncan lives nearby in Midway and has a big gallery. Take a look at his work online and you will see what the area is like in every season. Right now the trees along the river are leafed out, beautiful green, and in late summer they will be all golden. The river sparkles in the sunshine. It is really unspeakably gorgeous.
Okay, that's it for now, I don't want to hog the blog (speaking of hogs and rattlesnakes!)… It goes without saying, I am so happy we live here!!
You can hog the blog all you want this way. And if you want to post pictures we will all let you take over the whole blog! ^_^
Ditto!
Since everything has to be kept in the garage I was hoping you'd tell us how big the garage might be. If you can tell yet. Oh and where are they putting my pool? ^_^ Or am I going to have to jump in the river and swim against the current? LOL. Someone did mention Cami in a wet suit . :p
Be careful I'd hate to see you on the news….DH blogger gets pant leg caught on fence in an attempt to escape the spy cam of HGTV spokesperson Mary.
LOL!
LOVE the report. You must be an artist, because you painted a beautiful picture of the Dream Home location. I can't stop picturing this perfect place. Thank you so much, and keep 'em coming!
Well yes, in fact, I am an artist/quiltmaker and thank you for the compliment but I just poured it out without thinking. Tomorrow early, I'll walk down there and maybe get up closer (I hope "they" aren't reading this and ambush me!) as there should be no workmen around on Sunday morning. My husband won't go with me, I guess he would be mortified if I fell over the fence or like that.
It did occur to me what you said, dreamenthusiast, so I was pretty careful climbing that fence! Can just see the headline in the Wasatch Wave, "Member of Midway Heritage Quilt Guild falls for HGTV Dream House." Good thing I work out at the gym LOL! Tomorrow I will take my camera but I'll have to figure out how to get the pic onto the blog (cut me some slack, will ya? I'm older than dirt where this technology is concerned!)
Cami, the garage is a large double garage and it is on the left side, at an angle, as you face the front of the house. Sorry, I don't know where your pool can go but like I said, you can always go up to the Homestead Resort and swim and scuba in "the crater." Run a google on that and you'll be surprised, it's a very neat place. Wyo Girl has maybe seen it?.
I "think" I saw Homestead Resort on the Travel Channel. Do you make baby quilts? If so, do you sale/ship to other States?
I make quilts of all sizes but I mostly do it for teaching and for family and friends because it is quite expensive for materials and long-arm quilting services. I used to teach all over my area in Western Washington but here I am just another volunteer and that's okay. I teach friends and for my quilt guild and retreats. There are many many quilters up here, maybe that's why it has been so easy for me to feel at home and fit in.
beehivestate, your 'stream of thought' writing style has great visuals and details–not surprising from a quilter ! I think with the acreage, there would be space to put in a pool/exercise pool (like Endless Pools ) or a Swimspa– HOA regs permitting, of course.
Thanks again for your report !
Nice of you to say that, thank you. This is really my first time to blog (well, I started with the Stowe place) and I find it kind of fun and relaxing… except for the people who don't like Utah, of course! LOL
I just started quilting about a year ago, so I am a "newbie", but I am trying to learn more. Do you know about this event? http://www.tetonwyo.org/ext/docs/QITBook2011.pdf
It looks great, but probably too much over my head. I may go just to see the beautiful quilts on display, though!
The scrappy one is most like what I do. Thanks for posting the link, I will be attending a local guild retreat at that time at Alta Mont but it looks like fabulous national teachers. You should at least drive over for the quilt show. I'm sure you've found the little quilt shop in Jackson?
My favorite gallery in Jackson is Wild Hands. I have a couple pieces of Sticks art and some David Marsh furnture and Shoestring Creations furniture in our home.
I'm surprised I didn't run into you on Sunday at the Dream Home, it's spectacular. I think the cameras are probably the webcams to follow the construction, if they are you may see me and another person that was there today wandering around. It seems security is lacking as the place is wide open and there are no signs posted. There was someone fly fishing in the river right behind the house. And for you horse lovers there are several indoor arenas, boarding facilities etc. just blocks away, and I have to agree that the little town is totally charming and with any amenities a person would need. Heber City is cute too and Park City is just "over the hill". The house is going to be a "Dream" home for somebody.
Thanks for checking it out for us, smokesmom. What a gorgeous day it was yesterday for you to check out the Dream Home. I live in Western Wyoming, so we get Salt Lake TV as our local channels, so I always know your weather there!
It was lovely, the weather couldn't have been more perfect. I live in Southern Utah currently but will be returning to my home in Powell Wyoming this Fall. It was amazing to get to actually see an HGTV home being constructed, I'm a huge (recent) fan of HGTV, and just love the positive nature of all the bloggers and how much fun they have with each new contest.
Stay on here, smokesmom, and let's keep telling the country about Life Elevated in Utah.
I was there pretty early, smokesmom, so I missed you unless you were one of the passengers in the hot air balloon that landed on the RMR land.
Homestead Resort looks like a great winner's weekend activity.
Be careful that you don't get in trouble for trespassing, but thanks for the details.
What a great description of the home and property! I will look forward to your updates.
I hope that they don't stop you from updating us!
Hoping to see the floorplans soon. Again, great location!!!
Summer, how does it feel to be the one who "hit the nail on the head" and guessed the State of Utah as the location for the 2012 dream home?
It’s a beautiful area. But it,s just as expensive as Stowe, and Hawaii! Mary are you guys ever going to build one that a disabled person could live in? Or, are you going to ignore us like every one else does? I’m very poor, and disabled, and invisible to most of america- The Greatest Nation on earth, It,s all starting to make me angry, you know- I’m too poor to even hope I win one of you houses, because I won’t be able to live there on what I get. I’m a good person, I don’t drink or do drugs- I’ve always thought that being a good person was important. But- that’s for other people. I hope none of you end up a victim of violence and end up like me, I really do-
http://www.terragalleria.com/photos/?keyword=utah…
Thank you for those beautiful pictures. I have seen most of those places and have stood right in the center of the Delicate Arch picture on page 2. Arches National Park is near Moab, which is to the southeast of Midway a couple hours. great mountain biking on the slick rock trails.
Soooo excited, this is in my county !!! Can't wait to watch the progress….We are a growing area but still a small town feel, and still close to the city…
Stay on here and keep telling how great it is up here in the Wasatch Back!
What a lovely spot and looks like a beautiful place to build the next dream home can't wait to see !!!!
HOW FABULOUS! I thought it was Texas, but I'm glad to be wrong. What beautiful location. How blessed the winner will be to receive this dream home.
Blessed is the perfect way to put it PBBradley. A little piece of heaven here on earth. I think it was Cami who first brought insight to this reflection! I couldn't agree more. I couldn't think of a better place to raise a family than Utah! I've never been but I know people who have and they loved it.
I'm so excited!!!!! It's going to be difficult to wait until Dec to place my entries. And, Jan to see the unvailing. I'm soooooooooo excited!!!!!!!!!
A 4,000 sqft Modern-Western Ranch home. Wow!!!!!! Wow!!!!!!
If my family won this home, we'd have so much company. They would come in the Summer & Winter to see the different seasons, then multiple that by about 100 people. We'd be so happily tired for a very long time. We'll definitely share the gift if we are blessed with this opportunity.
As with everyone probably, I'm dreaming, wishing, praying, etc…
May the family that does win this home, find the greatest blessing & happiness as they start their new journey. xD xD xD <3 <3
You and me both!
I am so impressed with the dedication and sleuthing of fellow bloggers! I have to admit I had given up on the clues! Utah!
I am so thankful to have discovered HGTV’s Sarah’s Summer House several weeks ago. It has quickly become my favorite summer show, and my personal favorite among those that Sarah Richardson has done. It’s so refreshing! It combines: green living and great design for everyday living, mixed in with humor, warmth and character. The interplay between Sarah, her husband Alexander and design sidekick Tommy is a winning combination! I love the little slices of life thrown in too, whether it’s Sarah’s daughter or the family dog!
I happened to catch the remodeling of the kitchen/great room last night. I loved, loved, loved the vintage-inspired kitchen backsplash, and everything about the design for both rooms. It was classic, yet casual and comfortable: ready-made for everyday living! It was so welcoming! It made me want to pull up a chair; I already felt right at home.
a-fan, I enjoy that show, too. I watch repeats of all her older shows as well. The low-key humor and quips from Tommy are a treat. He has so much chemistry with Sarah… I liked his comment about planning to be a frequent guest there once the renovation gets done. Alexander gets a prize for tolerance–it is a bit over the top in a cottage (where they are supposed to rough it) to use that furniture fabric, and silver (!) candlesticks on the pass- through… I would love to see her go on a back-packing trip, LOL !
Over all, I did love it.
What in the world has happened to Coop? I can't believe he hasn't commented on the DH location reveal yet! He must really be enjoying his Caribbean vacation (and a few too many of his special cocktails, perhaps?
). Film lover that he is, I wouldn't be surprised to find out he has attended a few Sundance Film Festivals over the years. Come on, Coop, we need your input here, as soon as you have recovered from your vacation!
I think he is still enjoying the Caribbean:) I have no doubt he will be chiming in with poems and prose in no time LOL!
No, I just saw Coop in the back yard of the Dream House, catching the rays and looking for trout. He said hi and I told him not to get sunburned, the rays are pretty strong up here at 5780' l. Oh! I think he was drinking one of those 5-Hour Energy shots, he's trying to get in shape for hiking the Wasatch Mountain State Park across the street.
And Cami, was that you in the garage looking for where to hang your rain gear? You won't need it here!
Oh, what a beautiful morning! The only clue that would have led me from Pennsylvania to Utah would
be the destiny clue. The Susequehanna River is where Joseph Smith conceived of his plans for the
LDS . So I'm very thankful for the DH location because I would still be wandering in PA today.
Instead, I'm looking at a beautiful location in Utah. We have our very own blog reporter, Beehive State!
Congratulations, Beehive. Now, we top off the cake, with a Dream Home blogger wedding!
All is well in Dream Home Bloggerland!! Have a good day!!
Did you know there is a park in Salt Lake City, at the eastern bench, called "This Is The Place" Heritage Park. Joseph Smith never made it to Utah, I think it was Brigham Young who made the famous statement.
That's exactly my point about the the Joseph Smith link. I probably would have followed him
from NY to Illinois or still be in PA. In other words, Utah wasn't even on my radar!
The Dream Home will be "the place" here on the blog this year. I am enjoying all of your
descriptions, Beehive. Thanks!
Back at you, DeerSpring. You are very creative.
Yes "This is the Place" was a famous B. Young line. I think that is approximately where he actually said that line while viewing the Salt Lake Valley for the first time. An amazing wonderful moment for weary pioneers. Then Salt Lake City was born.
Yes Come Come Ye Saints "All is Well"
Ok now that you mention that connection I feel kinda dumb. Since last year when Mary posted the jar of honey, I said to myself I would recognize any clue that pointed to Utah, especially if she hinted at the pioneers.. I guess she would have had to hit me over the head with a Book Of Mormon for me to figure it out. (symbolically speaking of course
Cami, it looks like we were blindsided by the Hawaii and Bucks County blogs before the
clue game started. We didn't stand a chance from the very first get-go!
Deerspring, I loved your summation above. I think Mary should have spelled out "red herring" on the scrabble board.
LOL! The good thing about this game and being way off the trail is that we know the
final outcome, the Dream Home location, will be worth the effort!
Good morning, it will be in the 80's today in Midway and I woke up to the sunshine, opened all the windows. I'm getting my s-h-o-e-s on and walk down to see our 2012 DH in the morning light. Yesterday I looked at the plat map again and now I believe that the property boundary ends at the split rail fence and the land between that and the river is common area. By the way, I read the CC&R's and you can't LIVE in a tent on your property but your kids could sleep overnight in a tent outdoors.
Talked to Mike the produce guy at The Store in Midway yesterday and he said he fly fishes right there and has been watching the house but had no clue it was a "famous" house. So I will be getting us stories directly from the river, guys! By the way, this is a fabulous gourmet grocery store where you can get everything from ice cream cones and fresh-made pizzas to fly fishing equipment! And it's only about 4 miles from the DH. Of course I think everything in Midway is fabulous!
Okay, better get going before traffic picks up. River Road isn't really too safe for walking during the day.
Ha! Even though you're probably still giddy about the DH, you still remembered to spell out s-h-o-e-s! BTW, I am impressed that it's a casual walk for you to go 2.5 miles one way. If I go 3 miles round trip on my walks, I feel pretty good about myself!
Yes, this is going to keep you in great shape, beehive!
Yeah, this should take care of all the Ben & Jerry's I ate while I was wishing for Stowe and that 2011 Dream House. By the way, isn't it strange that I have family-by-marriage in Stowe and now a dream house here? I think it's a sign and maybe I'll win or one of my loved ones will win. Now, of course, you bloggies are among my nearest-and-dearest so who knows?
You know what, Star Valley, I did remember about that word for footwear but if you look back at my post on Thursday afternoon, I did say the bad word and it did not get deleted. I wonder if I'm on to something?! LOL we know I'm ON something, that's for sure, and I have my s-h-o-e-s on (just in case).
Wyo- on the way back out west, I may come through
Wyo- member last year when you went through Vegas and I was in Cali? I may be going through Wyoming but dont know the route yet. In a couple of days I will tell you how I am going, and since I am not on a work deadline I may go through your area. I will let you know, and even if I can stop and give you a hug it would be great. If not, maybe we can all meet up in Park City?
That would be great, Janzee! I live in Star Valley, kind of near the town of Alpine, which is 35 miles from Jackson Hole. If you're not going through here, we could meet in Jackson Hole, now that the giant mudslide that closed the Snake River Canyon road for two weeks is cleared out! Then, it's just 3 more hours to Midway, so you can get the preview of the Dream Home that Beehivestate is seeing right now! If you're only going across I-80, that's pretty far south of us, so I may just have to wave as you go by — however, I-80 would take you really close to the Dream Home, of course!
Looking forward to your reports!
I'm sure I will keep you in the loop, wild horses couldn't keep me away from that house now. And… drum roll.. there ARE wild horses in Heber City/Midway.
Please don't take any unnecessary risks — we haven't lost a blogger to the Dream Home cause yet, and we would like to keep it that way!
Now that being said, I can't wait to learn any new details you discover! xD
Thanks, I am careful. You could not do this walk in the winter, very little shoulder on the road. If I should be hit by a truck on the way to the house, at least I would die happy!! God forbid that should happen but wouldn't it make a funny obit? Definitely no one would forget me around here!
Be safe and have fun and come back and report everything you see! lol You are so lucky to live so close to the Dream Home!
Be safe!!!
Thank you so much, you bloggers are really a great bunch of people.
beehive, I thought about what I said all day to you and hope I didn't divert you from your direction.
I think I was just concerned about you climbing fences. We all encourage you to keep sharing your remarkable stories. They have an unusual fresh spin, almost Tom Sawyerish adventure girl, wide- eyed wonderment, with an artistic flair. And you make people feel at home, and you are proud of your state. You will accomplish alot of wonderous things on the site this year, with the gaggle of good folk from the area.
Thanks, no ofFENCE taken, Janzee! I'm in pretty good shape and it's not a very tall fence LOL.
Hey Debra G, this article made me think of you right away when I saw your beloved Virginia leading the way in these richest counties in America: http://realestate.yahoo.com/promo/meet-americas-r… Cross your fingers and hope Jack sees this for next year's consideration!!
The economic opportunities are definitely there for someone moving to the area;) This high tech region rivals the silicon forest in California, now.
Plus, there are all the other WONDERFUL reasons for VIRGINIA! JAAAACCCCKKKK…
Keep at him, Debra. He just may come around next year and find a spot in Virginia. Lot's of beautiful locations to choose from there!
I'm doing my best LOL!!
Woo Hoo!!! In our home state!!! Go Utah… Go Utah… Go Utah…
Hey smurdle, where do you live?
We live in Cache Valley. If people want to get to know Midway, the movie Midway to Heaven is cute. There's some great scenery in it and at the beginning of the movie, there is a description of how Midway got its name because of its proximity to Heaven on Earth.
We call it Midway Mountain Village, or Midway to Heaven, you're right! This area was settled in the late 1800's and there used to be two forts and Midway City was half way between the forts, thus "Midway," that's another story.
I hope they post soon. <3 B) xD ^_^
Hi you guys, I just wrote a long post but it was apparently too long and it erased so I will try again. I just got back from my walk and it is, indeed, like DeerSpring said "oh what a beautiful morning" in Midway UT. I have so much to tell you so I'll start with the property itself. The DH sits mostly on lot 6 and a little bit on lot 5. Lot 7 has a sold sign but everything else is for sale and represented by Summit/Sotheby's. I have their flyer with prices of all the lots and, get this, the lots 5 and 6 are $299 EACH! Properties range from a low of $199K (lots13 and 16) to a high of $449K (lot 26 on the hilltop). Jack, boy oh boy, you picked us the best views of the river (oh course we knew you would). Along the River Road (runs through the middle of the RMR development) they have bermed landscaping for privacy and it is landscaped with grasses and blue forget-me-nots wild and they have a paved bike path. Interesting that the price list is dated 5/27/11 and does not show lots 5 and 6 as sold, although the house was under construction by then. They really kept the secret!
Thanks for telling us which lot!
Walking over from my house takes me 35 minutes. I can't help it if I say "beautiful" every other word! The cattle were lying down in the green fields and the irrigation sprinklers are running and making rainbows in the sun. Overhead, get this, three hot air balloons and one of them flying low right over the DH. I wondered to myself if they KNEW what we know. Of course not, nobody around here has a clue yet except me LOL. One of the balloons set down right on the edge of the RMR property and the people got out. They deflated the balloon and then the balloon master walked over by me on his way to the chase van and I asked him if he KNEW he just went over a famous house being built. He didn't know and he was excited and said he would be able to tell his passengers from now on. Sometimes I see as many as 5 or 6 balloons and once, one of them set down practically behind our house. He said "oh I heard of that house, didn't 75,000 people enter last year" and of course I informed him it was more like in excess of 78 MILLION and this would be THE most famous house in the USA before long.
I just read your post beehive, and feel this great big deep breath like I am looking up at the blue sky overhead and expecting the most incredibe surprises .
YAY! THE RIVER, finally!!! I am the biggest "river rat" there is; it's where I spend any and all of my free time. Salt Lake is a beautiful place and I can't wait to see the style of the home. I hope it has major wrap around porches… Victorian or Farmhouse perhaps.
I wouldn't call it Victorian or Farmhouse, more like Ranch, I'm sure you'll see pretty soon online.
Major covered porches!
My husband says I should change my screen name to "beehive" because I'm so buzzing around here!
Now… the house… it sits with the front facing north (they will need heat tapes in the winter) and the back looks to the river with unobstructed views and a big deck on the SW corner, another deck (maybe off the master?) on the SE corner. The rail fence is the back property line and the river is just steps away. The river looks deep and flows swiftly but you could definitely fly fish. By the way, there is a neat FlyShop in close-by Heber City and if you want a souvenir to wear while you do your DH entries this winter, you could get one of their baseball caps that says "the fly shop Heber" Wouldn't that be neat and bring you good luck?
I think the house, silhouetted against the blue sky, does look like Texas a little bit. There is a nice grove of big green willow trees along the river on "our" side and in the far corner of lot 5. Views of the mountains all around, wide open panoramic views. I have a very strong, positive vibe that one of us "every bloggies" is going to win this house. Then you will be as happy as I am because you live in Midway!!
I did not go on the property except to toss my water bottle in the dumpster. I could easily have walked through the whole house, no one was around, but it felt not right to do that today. The house was just sitting there like waiting for us and it seemed kind of "brazen" to go traipsing through.
Walking home, facing SW, I see the snowy mountains and now the cattle are all "standing like statues" and I felt like singing that song…" an old wheeping willow was laughing at me!" A lone, lazy hawk circled overhead in the bright blue sky and a mule deer even leaped across the road right ahead of me on it's way down to the river. A few people were driving home from early church… I know that because the men were in starched white dress shirts. The LDS church in Midway City is one of the prettiest I've seen, it is in the classic style but the spire is copper clad. I swear to God, everything here is pleasing to the eye. This little valley is like nothing else anywhere.
Good job beehivestate!! You write like we're right there with you looking at the Dream Home!! Never know though, the construction site might have some web cams set up or motion night vision game cameras set up to watch over the property! o.0 They might have eyes on you just when you think you're alone! LOL Don't mean to make you nervous but if I were in the construction business I would want to protect my assets by establishing a little security by means of game cameras or web cams.
LOL, yes they have cameras on big posts on every corner of the lot. I was aware of that. wouldn't want to make the front page of the Wasatch Wave (weekly) in quite that way. I'd never live it down.
Beehive (I like your new nickname) I have several questions. Is the house a two-story or a ranch? Is it one long expanse or are there sections jutting out in different directions – does that make sense? Is there any type of tower? Thank you so much for being our hometown spy. I love reading your posts!
The house is a two-story, out here we call it a ranch style but I know that usually means one level. It has sections that jut out, the garage is on the left side and juts out at an angle as you face the front. It does not look like a straight line one long expanse. Lots of gables, lots of skylights in the roof, both front and back are very interesting. It has a lodge look, big covered front porch, lots of windows. I think it will have a stone facade on the lower part, as I've seen the stone mock-up leaning up agains the side… or maybe they are just auditioning that stone. If you have other questions, let me know and I'll try to figure it out.
Wow, thanks beehive! What an incredible picture you drew. I can actually picture the house in my mind. I love gables and skylights are a special treat! This is so much fun!
Can you tell yet if there are covered balconies on the second floor? What about chimneys? How many are there? I hope the house has lots of fireplaces. I'm a sucker for a fireplace…LOL!!!
chimneys and covered second-floor balcony's. Okay, I'm on a mission for tomorrow. Over and out from the beehive!
Thank you thank you so much for all the detailed reporting, this is awesome you are doing an amazing job keeping all of us updated.
Thanks beehive! I can't wait to read your next blog post!!
Dear beehive, thanks for your buzzing, and your exquisite words. I feel strongly that your special light has touched your community. Do you teach art, or write? Are the farmers markets fantastical? I felt I was walking in the field with you and watched the grazing rainbow dozing cows. What an image!!!
Are you allowed to keep horses in your neighborhood ? How did you personally come to live in your neck of the woods? I've always dreamed of having an Appaloosa. and wondered if your area in Midway is zoned for horses. Also what do you love about your community? Do you have any old historic places that you visit?
This is a farm area so yes, people can have horses. My neighborhood is a PUD and the lots are too small. Our covenants even specify how many llama we could have in the yard! I live here because we retired and moved where our son lives (he's in Park City). Right across from the DH there is a beautiful green field with horses and one is an appaloosa, you will feel right at home.
I'm off to Park City now to sit with our baby grandson, so I'll be driving right by the DH and check it. I will also give you an appaloosa report LOL.
Willow trees are pretty ticklish, and they laugh. I lived in Az., as a kid, and they wag their long graceful feathery branches. Enjoy their sweet messages. I like reading you, and love to tune in, it's better than than listening to a radio show. You are bringing alot of happiness here. Another author on the blog amongst many tells good stories- that is one RJMstone. Hope Stone comes in to share your accounts. Bless you every day in every way.
I was so tired today after walking the baby carriage up Park City Main Street in the hot sun. I came home and fell asleep for 2 1/2 hours! Babies are a lot of work! Tomorrow I'll be home all day so I can mosey on down and give you the up-to-date report. We drove by this morning and the carpenters were back on the roof. Your horse is doing fine, Janzee. He's in a little meadow with a brown quarter-horse and the tiniest little black donkey. Namaste.
I think we have to come up with a "blogger name" for that little donkey–sounds so cute ! I hope their lot will not be up for sale (hope they don't end up moving because of the hoard of curious lookie loos going by the DH ) lol.
My husband just left for the gym without me, he said I am shaking like one of those "old" people and I should sit and rest awhile! We have our white adirondack chairs and our patio umbrella and the neighbors are out and about, it will be a nice day to sit on the porch. I'm reading TAKE GOOD CARE OF THE GARDEN AND THE DOGS by Heather Lende, it's about small-town Haines Alaska and if you want a good summer read, it's one of those that are hard to put down. Her other book, likewise, IF YOU LIVED HERE, I'D KNOW YOUR NAME. Have a very happy day, I know everyone in Midway is happy today and every day. bye now.
You know what bloggers. What better opportunity to meet your neighbors than right here on the blog. beehivestate and sherrinut live close by and if you win the 2012 Dream Home you might be able to invite them over for a BBQ and have them bring some of there friends in the neighborhood as well. By that time you'll have met quite a few people living in the area. Beehivestate can you tell us about the schools, parks, recreational programs for kids (baseball, basketball, band, track, and swimming etc…)?
Oh my goodness. we have all that and more… I will write about it after breakfast… and perhaps there is more article in the Sunday Salt Lake Tribune. This whole area is so family oriented, we love kids around here. Like all small towns in the countryside, we follow our various teams and sports. A famous Olympic wrestler graduated from high school here and the high school is called the Wasps and they had his name on the side of the old high school until they moved this year into their new school.
I hope if one of us bloggies doesn't win the house, that we get to know our neighbors over there. Maybe they will be in the quilt guild or the Wasatch Literary Society (book club) or who knows what else. It is a small community and we see everyone sooner or later, at the post office or The Store or the gym.
Our Fit Stop Health Club trains the young athletes after school and weekends. I see them when I'm over there working out. We also have our own Wasatch County BIGGEST LOSER game going on at The Fit Stop and people are truly excited about that.
One nice thing here is you see people outdoors all the time, bike riding, on horseback, skateboards, cross country skis, running or walking, pushing baby chariots… so many people are into being healthy.
Ooooooooh! Neato! Really anxious to see the plans.
CAUTION: this comment contains personal opinion. Those who find that emotion too graphic or unsettling are advised to fast forward to the next comment.
I arrived home from Curacao at 3 am this morning, thankfully to warm S CA weather and sunny blue skies. (Well not at 3 am, but the skies were sunny after my 4 hours of sleep.)
I saw the Dream Home location reveal early yesterday while still in Curacao. Flummoxed would be putting it mildly. I think I'll take the fifth, preferably over ice, please … and without the wild goose chaser, thank you.
I'll just have to wait until next year for my tropical paradise in Kukui'ula or even a plantation home in the Estates of Keswick Hall. At least I can look forward to creating my own tropical dream time come October in Hawaii and Thailand.
Having said that, I've visited and traveled through Utah on a number of trips, from St. George to Ogden, Salt Lake City to Park City, Natural Bridges Monument to Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and Moab to Kanab. Then there's the Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry, a veritable Jurassic Park of fossils, and Nine Mile Canyon (which is actually 40 miles long) which is the site of ancient petroglyphs and ruins of dwellings of the Fremont Indians who lived in the area over 1,000 years ago. With lots of natural beauty and a range of four season climates, Utah has something of interest for just about everybody.
Welcome back, Coop! Mary really threw us all a curve ball this time, didn't she? River Meadows Ranch looks like a beautiful setting, though, and I can't wait to see what the Dream Home Dream Team comes up with this time!
Welcome back Coop! Utah is a looong way from Virginia and I'm still not sure how we got here. This was the first time I joined in on trying to guess the location so I am especially puzzled. But, Utah is a beautiful state and I can't wait to see what the Dream Team comes up with. I expect it will be spectacular!!
Welcome back, Coop! We missed you!
I know what you are saying, there were many of us who did a triple take give the clues we had to operate with from Mary. I hope you are right about the 2013 season. This left more then a few shaking their heads.
Before I get a barrage of TDs again, this is not an indictment against Utah. It has to do with the process we've been participating in for months now.
So in good old girl fashion all I have to say is GOOOOO VIRGINIA…!
Cooper I have so much to tell you. We are soo glad you are back and missed the heck out of you. Hope you enjoyed every moment of your blissful adventure, and if you care to share a snippet of your paradise, we are all ears. I was going to write to you today, but was on my own expedition to the Trump Tower. How did you know that I was going to be Trumpeting the Tower? I did get some pics of the hotel, which I will share when Lessie sends me the link again
I also passed the river today,watching the boats go out, and feeling that shock wave of envy. There, on that boat, with my hat turned backwards is where I wanted to be at that moment, on that ride. On the river I saw some Trumpeter swans, and they looked up at me with knowing. All that I can say is that if I don't do it this time, I will come back to Chicago and all of it's glory– this place is a so worth it.
P.S. I had my woof woof with me this time, and it was hard to keep her in the hotel. I even had to dodge(literally) a tornadoish type storm. Make sure Terry is with someone you really trust when you leave on your world travels.
From what I've heard, HGTV has a lot of hardcore fans in UTAH. Do It Yourselfing and crafting is a time honored tradition in UTAH, so I'm sure there are a lot of DIY fans as well. I'm thinking we'll be seeing and hearing more and more from HGTV's UTAH fans on the Dream Home blog.
Welcome to the UTAH HGTV Dream Home bloggers!!!!:)<3<3<3:)
And congratulations for getting an HGTV Dream Home in your awesome State!!!
Hmmmm……I'm thinking an infinity pool dropping into the mountain view would be perfect for this location
I totally agree!! So far I'm happy w/ everything HGTV is doing with the 2012 Dream Home. My depiction of an ideal Dream Home would be mountains, water, warmer climate, chef style kitchen, entertainment room (Man cave room), 4 bedrooms, etc…. Believe it or not Utah will still be warmer than we live
A pool would just cap it all off. A perfect dream to Dream!!
great idea and if I see Jack hanging around, I'll point that out.
I know you will Beehive!
Aha, I didn't consider you to be a look-out for Jack Thomasson. Be sure and post as soon as you see him. Engage him in conversation, offer him dinner, tie him up… whatever it takes.;) And I'll be on the first plane there. I must meet "The Man" — The Dream Home Wizard.
Besides him and I need to talk about this Hawaii business. LOLB)
Here here about the Hawaii business…
Cami, I'm famous for my not-cooking so I better not offer dinner. I could give him a quilt, though.
How about an indoor infinity pool like this one in a Park City residence:
http://www.blessthisstuff.com/stuff/living/living…
An indoor pool would mean you could use it year-round even in Utah!
That works!! xD
you know, I'm pretty sure that infinity pool would freeze over in the winter. It's pretty severe here and that's probably why you don't see many homes with pools. People who want swimming pools have second homes in St. George. Oh, I see you mean INDOOR. okay, maybe that's what they are going to do on Lot 5, which is mainly empty so far.
Oh I like your thinking…an indoor pool. I was wondering what they were going to do with Lot 5!
That is stunning and would definitely place this home over the top!
Hey all! I usually just lurk here, but had to register as I went up to the Dream Home today! I live in Salt Lake, so it was about a 35 minute drive for me. No workers were there and the house was open with no Keep Out signs, so I walked all around the inside and took pictures. (Ran into another lurker here – hello!) I drew out a rough layout, so I will try to describe how it flows. You can see all my pics – inside and out – at http://homepage.mac.com/kim.mcdaniel/2012HGTVDrea… (hope that's okay to post here).
The house sets back quite far on the lot, so it is close to the river. While the water was running fast, it doesn't seem to be any danger to the property. The home sits above the river in elevation quite a bit. When you see the exterior shots, you will see obviously the garage is on the left, entry in the middle and a great room and bedroom are on the right. The center is two stories, as is the back left portion, but you access those areas from separate stairways. To the immediate right of the entry exterior, there is an area that appears to be a covered porch, extending the length of the great room.
When you enter the home, there is a small entryway with stairs to the immediate left, a room directly behind (walled off, with a doorway to the left, appears to be the kitchen) and a great room to the right.
The great room is two stories high with huge beams and three transom windows at the top on both front and back. There are two skinny windows and one large picture window along the back (south), all to the floor. There is another large picture window facing west with a view of the mountains.
On the north side of the great room is a short hallway leading to a bedroom with an en suite bath. There are two large picture windows facing south and west, and two higher, smaller square windows facing north. Plumbing is in place for the bathrooms on the first floor and electric appears in place in most of the home. It is all studded and framed.
There is a large doorway/arch in the south east corner of the great room that accesses the room just behind the entry. This appears to be the kitchen. On the south side of the kitchen is a sunny area perfect for a table, with large windows facing south, west and east that go to the floor.
To the left from the entry, just next to the kitchen, is a powder room (it connects to the hall). Beyond that, on the right, is a somewhat small, interestingly shaped bedroom that appears to have an en suite bath and walk-in closet. There is a large picture window facing south and another, smaller window facing south east.
Across from that bedroom, to the left in the hallway, is what appears to be a large laundry/mud room. Behind it is the garage, which has two large cutouts that appear to be windows. Not sure why in a garage, but we'll see what they have planned!
Beyond the laundry and bedroom in the hallway is another staircase to the right. Beyond the staircase is a large room that appears to be a sun room or perhaps second living area. There are floor to ceiling windows on north, east and south sides, surrounding the entire room.
The staircase just before that room accesses a short hallway that opens into two identical bedrooms with a bath between (could be jack-and-jill?). Large picture windows in each face north and east in the north bedroom, and south and east in the south bedroom. There is also a large east-facing window in the bath. This area is only accessible via that back staircase.
Coming back to the entry, going up the main staircase, there is a sitting area just over the entry, with a large window facing north out the front of the house. behind this is a large room (over the kitchen footprint), with a step-down in the back. This appears to be the master. The wall to the right, which could overlook the great room, is solid with no windows or overlook. The lowered area at the back of this room has large windows looking out east, south and west, all to the floor. Could be a sitting area or even an enclosed porch.
Inside this room, to the left (east), is a short hallway flanked by what appear to be two walk-in closets (his and hers?). The hallway ends in what is probably the master bath. This space has a corner floor-to-ceiling window area in the south east side.
That's the house! The views of the river out back are just stunning, and it's so peaceful and quiet. Can't wait to live here! :p
Kim, good pictures, you are much bolder than me. Thank you.
Well, I work for a newspaper, so it's in my nature to just go for it. There were no signs saying not to, so I did!
Right on! No wonder the photos were so good. Maybe next Sunday I'll do the same thing and check it out. My husband says the contractor will probably have signs up by then. Killjoy!
Go for it! It's a much shorter trip for you, for sure. And I'll be out of town next weekend anyway!
THANK YOU! So glad I got to see the pictures! Your description is wonderfully detailed.
I did the same thing when the DH was in Sonoma–I went out to look at it and ultimately took a walk through it, taking care to touch nothing, except the paper protecting the floor. Unavoidable since I couldn't levitate. I was so respectful of the house, same as you. It was such a thrill to get to see a DH under construction. At Sonoma I was in awe of how clean the site was, and it looks like the same work habits here.
Thank you for knowing how much we would love to hear about your adventure that you took the trouble to register.
Hope to see you here often!
My pleasure! I certainly hope to make it back up there periodically and get more shots. Until they enclose it and start finishing inside, I suspect it won't be too difficult (unless they see this and tighten security).
I was careful, but to be honest there isn't much to mess up at this stage. It's all sawdust and framing with some electric and pipes run. I was a bit surprised there were temporary stairs to get up to the upper level!
Great job, tivo-girl! I love your pictures and descriptions — thanks for all the sleuthing!
It was kind of fun!
I really enjoyed the pics tivo_girl !! I bet your right about them tightening up on security. I can envision Mary saying…Yikes… come Monday morning
!! I'm really happy we have some insiders to give us some information. All of you make great detectives!! Your hired tivo!! LOL
Woohoo! I'm in!
If they are/were planning to have signs or security, I'm surprised they weren't up already as the press release came out on Friday. You would have thought they'd have done it in advance of that. Perhaps they simply don't mind, figuring most people won't bother to make the trip or seek information out online, and those that do are just a drop in the bucket. I hope they keep it open, but I will certainly respect any signs that do go up, if that happens.
I'll let you know what's what. It's pretty relaxed out here, maybe they won't care. The only thing is, construction can be kind of dangerous (like that temporary stairway you mentioned). Once I was checking out a new home being built in my neighborhood and almost stepped off into the void! Guess it wasn't my time to go!
The "temporary" stairs were actually quite stable and large. They just aren't the finished boards that they'll use when it's done, and there are no handrails but the wall studs were easy enough to grab if I needed them. I was careful, though.
Nice scoop, tivo_girl! Your photos are great. Thanks for sharing.
My pleasure!
All I can say is WOW!!! Way to go Tivo_girl!!!! You rock!
Thank you!
I just got home and haven't even taken a peek at the photos I took today, it was nice meeting you tivo_girl, you did a great "scoop" on the dream home. We weren't the only ones there, several cars drove by and the guy in the Hummer wasn't too happy about what he thought might be an out of town contractor. He just needs to realize what a boon for the Midway community this house is.
Hello! I couldn't remember your username so I didn't mention it in the first post. I knew it was something mom and started with an S! After you left, I didn't see anyone else stop or drive by, and I was probably there another half hour or so. Mostly seemed to be people just checking it out from the street. And I agree about the guy who was disturbed it wasn't a LOCAL local contractor. To me, SLC is close enough.
Wow those are some awesome pictures! I'm so happy that we have so many people close to the HGTV Dream Home! It's exciting to think I might get to meet or see some of you
I'm hoping to be able to show the house from various mountain peaks (Bald Mountain and Deer Crest) throughout the summer and fall. Here's to the 2012 HGTV Dream Home…..cheers! <3
Oh great idea! I wish I'd had time to hike around to the other side of the river and get a nice, wide view of the back. Maybe next trip!
Wow!! That home looks like a castle in the making. I can't wait to see the plans. Really, what excuse can Jack or Mary possibly have for not having the plans and sketches posted by tomorrow.
Excellent job with the pics and thanks for sharing. We have so many spies in Utah I'll bet they can find the house plans and post them themselves.B)
It is certainly huge. I believe the descriptions say it is over 4,000 square feet. To be honest, though, aside from the great room, none of the spaces feel overly large. It's very homey and cozy, despite the size.
Thank you…Geez, the house is going to be huge!
It already is!
Wow!!!! Thanks for those great framing & view pictures. They are great!!!!
Can you get them to post the floor plan?
Thanks again!!!!!!!xD
What a great description and the pictures are fabulous!! The house is simply magnificent; I am stunned…
Wow, great description, and I haven't even looked at the photos yet! I am amazed that you could put in such a long post — it used to be that there was a limit. I am so tickled that so many of you Utah folks took advantage of a beautiful Sunday to drive up to the Midway home and check it out! Thanks for the info.
Hey all! Just posted this to the end of the thread, but in case you're looking here instead, here's a shorter version and a selection of pics I put together for my day job at the paper: http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/home2/51951995-183/d…
I wasn't really too far off the mark, since I'd guessed either Amboy, CA or Death Valley. Both are west of New Jersey, although the fig tree clue didn't quite fit with either location.
I don't see anything that looks like that so-called "fig" tree anywhere in Utah so far but then again, I've only been here four years. IMHO the clues were pretty convoluted. I only guessed Midway because I really, really wanted it to be here… and I should've known when they took down my post.
I agree about the fig tree…and the convoluted clues. They love to confuse us! guess it wouldn't be much fun if we all guessed right immediately!
They took down your post? Not sure what you meant by that.
Sorry, Susannamac, I'm pretty new to this blog stuff but I posted many times that I hoped for Midway, UT and most recently a week ago. I can't find that post now and someone else told me that maybe "Mean Mary" took it down. I don't know if they do that but I have seen other posts go away that I knew were there because I'd read them and I know for sure I mentioned Midway way back when Mary had the picture of the palm tree.
I never thought the scrabble board clues fit very well, except for the blogger who pointed out that UT was in several of the words. Very clever! I take no credit for "hitting the nail on the head," but it is fun to think maybe it was so!
Most of the time when they were giving the clues, I was over on the Green Home blog watching the action and then just occasionally back and forth to this blog. It was a fun ride but the clues were not very productive for me until the last two. I guessed Midway more out of hope and wish than anything very clever.
Sometimes posts disappear. Poof. Always a hopeful sign that you have had a spot-on guess.
One of my posts disappeared, too, leading me to think the house was in Montana. (Now I guess my post was banished for having a real estate hunting link in it that conflicted with HGTV's business interests in frontdoor.com. I will never really know.)
Well, you could've knocked me over with a fig leaf when I saw it was River Meadows Ranch! I just screamed and my husband heard me all the way upstairs. I guess wishing and hoping and dreaming and guessing can come to something after all!
Before we found the picture on the internet and knew it was taken in Australia, I remember someone showed the plant to a botanist friend who said It's probably somewhere in Utah.
Well I was wondering when they were going to build one here! It's about time. I hope I win. I love Midway. It's a quaint little town with beautiful views. We often take a scenic drive that way. If you win this, you are only MINUTES from Park City where you can ski until your heart is content. And don't worry, we "Mormons" are not all that strange.
Give us a chance. There is a lot this state has to offer. It is a great place to raise a family and has LOTS of wonderful outdoor adventures. Good luck to everyone!
I think LDS folks are awesome.;) Welcome to the blog.:)
I'm not Mormon and when I came here 4 years ago people told me we would not "fit in" and no one would socialize with us. THAT WAS SO NOT TRUE! I've never been more included in things, volunteered more, or had so many nice friends as here. No one comes to the door and tries to convert us. I only have a Book of Mormon because an 11 year old girl lived next door and knew I love to read and she thought I should have this book when she moved away! I think Utah ROCKS!
I've gotten the free tickets to many of the concerts, including the Christmas ones twice, which is pretty unusual from what I hear. Utah is all good.
I'm jealous beehivestate. The performing arts in the Salt Lake area are so amazing. The colleges there attract a lot of talented young people. The MTChoir is awesome too. That was such a sweet story to hear about your little neighbor girl. I'm glad you love the area. I'm wishing we could experience living in Utah for a time. It was always the performing arts I knew I was missing out on– that made me want to move there. I did live in Provo for a few months, a long time ago but didn't get to experience much. My kids want to move to Idaho or Utah, but we are stuck to my husbands job here.
Sorry my mother lived there a few months- my siblings were treated terribly. I passed through to see the scenery but have no inclination to move there.
I feel bad that happened, Nebraska. I guess there all kinds of people no matter where you live. When I was in Tacoma, I never even felt safe walking down the street in summer. Kids were just likely to go by in fast cars and spit on you and there were so many drive-by and freeway shootings.
LDS neighbors constantly provided help to my grandmother who lived to be 99 and was determined to stay in her own home. I was very impressed by their endless kindnesses year after year, because she was notoriously, um, a pill.
aawww hawaii why do you escape me…… alas the new local will be beautiful. My sister got married on a rock there!
Does anyone know what the lot number of the house is?
Yes, lots 5 and 6. The house is mostly on lot 6.
Speaking of Utah! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPnqrjCX2p8
Like it, they were sure young then!
Soney and I really enjoy the Osmond family. Two of the brothers are hearing impaired. We like to watch when they are signing along with the song. You live in a beautiful state we enjoy reading your posts.
Thanks, likewise I like what you write. Sounds like you are in WA? Whereabouts? I'm from there before Utah.
We live in beautiful Seattle. Even though it rains and it pours we still love it here and our little DH. Where in WA did you live?
I was born at Seattle General Hospital (it used to be downtown in the Cobb Building). Grew up in Shoreline, moved to Tacoma after getting married, then 14 years in Denver, then back to Lakewood, WA.
By the way, the year our son was born Marie Osmond had a great big hit called "Paper Roses." Do you remember that one?
What part of the city do you live in? Fun talking to you!
Sure do remember that song. There is a beautiful garden called Lakewold Gardens (Where the Blue Poppies Grow) near Lakewood. Soney and I live on Beacon Hill. Fun talking to you too! Here is Paper Roses. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Scd6yhtbizE&fe…
Okay, I know where you are now. When I was high school, I took Japanese lessons with a friend at the Nihongo-gako (sp) in the Intl. District. It was so much fun. I used to go to the newspaper office and get penpal letters from Japanese young people who wanted to practice their English.
I know Lakewold Gardens, have been there. I lived on Ponce de Leon Creek if you know the area, on the side of the creek across from the Library and near the shopping mall.
All I can say is WOW! Amazing! Like I said in an earlier blog…HGTV Always finds just the right location. HGTV you have done it again. I for one loved the anticapation! It was worth it. Mary, you do know how to stump us and Jack, the locations you chose are wonderful. Thank you. Now blogging family we are dreaming again! Lets enjoy the ride!! Here we go.
Giddy Up!!
The Scrabble board was just a tease
Those clues were meant to us mislead
They point to Utah? oh tell us please!
Not a clue had I, I will concede
West of New Jersey, I see its place
Along with 46 other states
For all the rest — I rest my case
Like fig trees and those other traits?
I scratch my head and wonder why
From here to there's a leap too wide
Though search we did and try and try
A lesson learned — enjoy the ride!
Roll the dice and take your pick
Or throw a dart until it sticks
Seems either one will do the trick
To sleuth the clues is not the fix!
From north to south or east to west
No rhyme, no reason, does it make sense?
Now we know the site, here comes the best
Yet, could it be — I'm simply dense?
coop, beehivestate said the first scrabble clue was the single word "rattlesnake" (Mary: Does anything "strike" you?). Midway has a local rattlesnake legend from its earliest settlement days about how the massive rattlesnake population was brought under control by hungry hogs. So "rattlesnake" said "Midway" to her. I think the clue should also speak to people who don't LIVE THERE. At least it should whisper…. Oh, well.
You said it for me!!!
It has been a pleasure chatting with you throughout the hunt. I only wish it would have lasted longer.
Where do you guys go blog next?
It's been fun, MsTrishFl. Reminds me of my favorite attraction (many, many years ago!) at Disneyland, which was Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. Now I find the HGTV and DIY blogs action enough! It's guaranteed to be a bumpy ride, and of course, they are always too short, although this year came to an unexpectedly quick end. Possibly due to an electrical short or mechanical malfunction?
Where do we go next? Actually, many HGTV bloggers are like company that never leaves! We just keep hanging on, from one action-packed wild goose chase to the next. Gluttons for punishment. After all, besides the Dream Home, there's the Green Home, the Urban Oasis, and DIY's Blog Cabin. Never a dull moment around these parts.
Stay here the fun has just begun.
Well, you, at least have an excuse for not picking up on Utah, Coop. You were probably just a bit distracted from all your travels. Utah, beautiful state though it is, never once entered my mind. Now that I know, I'm excited about this!
True, AZSonny, I was definitely focused on my tropical island getaway. However, in this case, I think we ALL had a good excuse for not picking up on Utah! Of course, beehivestate did have a small advantage living practically around the corner. I'll probably never have that opportunity, being as Amboy, CA isn't likely to attract a Dream Home anytime soon.
Moving on, guess it's time to pack a few meager belongings, toss in the washboard, hitch the horses up to the wagon, get out the GPS, and hit the trail for Utah. I've always had a hankerin' to follow Horace Greeley's advice: "Go NorthEast, Young Man, go NorthEast!"
No, you are not dense. Perhaps the most important, albeit ironic, clue was, "Wild goose chase."
Yeah, you hit the nail right on the head, H_S — wild goose chase, as in our goose was cooked from Clue One!
So let's stuff that good goose and have a party. Say by the way everyone is talking about possibly meeting up at Sundance. I've been wanting to go for years and I think Cami,DebraG., Wyo Girl, beehivestate since she lives there, LLColeman might be game, and I am not talking the goose variety. I do see us stuffing our faces with some great food near the OKay Corral.
I am going to get the apple pie at the Foundry Grill and skip the entree.
HS and Susannamac might be up for it. Call it an extended honeymoon!
Wyo, I expect to see alot of these two on all of their adventures, and extended celebration.
Fantastic poem. DBCoop you love it— ever bit of the high stepping staircase chase, and back to first base. Now that you got your boots on, and are in your high country ranch mode inquiring minds want to know about the small community outside of Salt Lake City. It seems to be a fasinating place, but I wonder how Jack decided on the area, and all about the history. Could you get cabin fever living here, or is there plenty to do. I know there must be alot of writer types who can put there wares in a suitcase and get into Los Angeles.
No Coop you are not dense. And when we find out the right answer was deleted I feel like a fool and complete disrespect from HGTV.
I don't feel "dis-ed," but the clues were pretty abstract.
DBCoop you are on the case
Clue search solved in this space?
Untold quests simply dissolve
For the clue makers, and clue shakers meet at Midway
High noon and lines are crossed,
We can now see the trees through the forest
Our newest episode is a research Utah campaign
Look to the HGTV DH and crack the champagne
Love your poem!!! Perfect sentiment! You are not the least bit dense! Not unless we ALL are!
Mary spelled the wrong "vail" on the scrabble board.
Bridal Veil Falls is a 607-foot-tall (185 m) double cataract waterfall in the south end of Provo Canyon, in Utah, United States. The Provo river spills off the mountain to create the falls.
C&E · 60 weeks ago
Could it be Utah, the Beehive State?
That Bridal Veil Falls is just beautiful, that highway is the only way to Provo from Midway when we need to make a bookstore excursion or a Costco/Target run. I never even thought it was a clue.
I never thought it was a clue either. I don't know very much about Utah. I live back east in the Mid Atlantic area or the Ohio Valley region. The weather people use the terms interchangably when referring to my state.
Stay tuned. You'll be a Utah expert real soon.
Thank you WV for recognizing C&E's guess 60 weeks ago. Are you a Utah person too?
Utah is well known for excellent trout fishing in high mountain lakes and streams. Fewer people know the state offers a wide variety of other exciting fishing opportunities, including trophy lake trout that weigh in at over 40 pounds, ferocious tiger muskie, striped bass so plentiful they have removed the limit, unique and hard-fighting wipers, plus quality waters for walleye, largemouth, smallmouth, white bass, perch, crappie, channel catfish and several other species. Fishing is open year-round on most waters. Proclamations (rules) are available at all Wildlife Resources offices and many local stores and visitor information outlets.
And I think I remember reading that tomorrow, June 6th, is free fishing day! One of the best places, besides Jordanelle and Deer Creek Reservoir, is the Strawberry Reservoir, which is a short drive (an hour or so) east of Midway as you head toward Duchesne.
Wow great info WV, and what an opportunity to fish and to perhaps learn to can your catch- much better than any canned fish under the sun. Catch is catch can right?
With a house that big, the one who wins will probably have to hire maid service. Here are a few companies I found listed on the internet.
Spotless Details, LLC
(866) 530-3893
1646 Saint James Place, Holladay, UT 84121
Serving Midway, UT
PC Industries, LLC
(866) 776-7317
5976 West 12900 South, Herrimen, UT 84096
Serving Midway, UT
Instead of those, I know of several individuals up here who have house cleaning service and would take on the job gladly. I also know of an excellent commercial window cleaning company (which my son owns)!
Salt Lake City! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mvF3GpyHKI
Wow does that look like beautiful scenery! Can't wait to see what the house looks like!
I went to Facebook to share the good news about the Dream Home with my friends, and discovered they'd been HGTV'd but not Dream Home'd. Where's their priorities?:pB)
Cami, it just occurred to me that Jack is spending way to much of his down time on the slopes. Two years in a row a ski/snow boarding location. How can we get him involved in the sport of cliff diving, snorkeling, volcano repelling, deep sea fishing, etc. ? Maybe we should chip in and purchase some of these lessons for him.
The last three (3) if you figure that the Sandia DH was looking directly at the sky slopes just a few miles away! Like I said earlier someone needs to let Jack know their really is snow in Hawaii!
I've been saying for the last few years that Jack must really love the ocean, 'cause he used to work for Coastal Living Magazine, and he built in Florida 4 times. I think he's just being rebellious now. Someone needs to remind him how much he loves the ocean. LOL;)
Mary,oh Mary, Could we please have a floor plan or some actual/official sketches???????
Mary,
Are there any plans for a pool or is it too cold there in the winter?
Maybe there could get a walkway down to the rivier/stream?
Can we have it fenced in all the way around (4 sides), even if it meets on the sides of the home (keeping the front open)? And, it doesn't have to be a high fence, just something that'll keep the dogs confined. My dops can't jump high at all. Can't have them running through the neighborhood. That wouldn't make for a good image & sometimes image is everything. I mean we'd be representing HGTV 24/7.
I know, it sounds like I'm planning my own home- Oh yeah, I am. LOL!!! LOL!!!
Also, if you need anyone to come out & oversee things, just drop me an email. I'd be happy to assist!!!!!!!
I know, I've truly lost my mind. LOL!!!
The fence is a split-rail but you could do wire fence inside that to contain you dogs. Many people out here do the invisible fence system. Everyone has dogs, so you will fit right in.
I hope my family gets the opportunity to fit in. Thanks for your reply.
Mary, Mary, Oh Mary,
I bet we (all of us blogging) would be happy to help with even some of the little details. Keeping us involved & interested throughout the series. I personally enjoy the survey (help us choose) voting option. It would allow us to feel like we helped bring this Dream Home together for the lucky winners. VERY COOL IDEA!!!!!!!!
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!
Perfect Weather, Beehivestate, although I shouldn't complain. It's only 100 here so we can still open the windows in the morning for a little while. Ha!
I feel for you! We only get a few 100 degree days here although our summers are hot.
Wow, pictures of the house and lot. Wonderful! Now I'm glad the dogs woke me to say goodnight.
All thanks be, to our Lord almighty, for the opportunity to even register for this wonderful Dream home. May the family that wins be blessed & prosper in their new lives. In Jesus name, Amen.
Just a small prayer for a wishful future.
Does HGTV own Lot #5 as well? If they do what do you suppose their going to build on it? I wonder if they will team up with Disney to build a Dream Disney back yard?
They own 5 and 6, but the house sits quite far back on the lot. Once they add the decks that have been mentioned, I don't think there will be much room between that and the property line for much of a yard.
The Heber Valley is extremely beautiful! However, Utah taxes are a little on the high side, and there is a STRONG religious influence in most areas that is difficult, at times, to work around if you are not a member of the predominant religious organization. As someone who lived in Utah for ten years, I speak from experience. Just a heads up.
I don't agree, I have not had any difficulty fitting in here and have found cost of living to be far less than on the west coast, taxes also are lower. Midway has the lowest property tax base of any community in the county, including Park City in Summit County. And I'm not Mormon. I find that you get what you look for. Yes, Heber Valley IS extremely beautiful, I agree with you on that. I speak from experience, too.
Agreed, the LDS influence is definitely felt but I see it mostly for the good.
Well of course Utah taxes are less than on the west coast—just about everywhere (inland) has lower taxes that the coast! I'm glad you are enjoying Utah-I was a single mom while living there and my kids were excluded from a lot of activities with their friends because they didn't go to the same “church”. I was told “you're Christians, not Mormons.” and many others that I knew complained of the same treatment. Kind of got my fill of that. Evidently you have better neighbors than I had.
—
Sorry you had a bad experience. My Mormon neighbors call themselves Christians.
Not in Park City. Pretty diverse.
yes, Park City is very cosmopolitan, I agree.
Taxes are not high. If this is a second home – yes, they will be high. But taxes in Utah are not high – incomparison to other states.