Nov
23
Blog on Hiatus
Greetings, HGTV Dream Home fans.
We’re closing this blog to do a bit of housekeeping. A new and improved blog format is coming soon. We’ll alert you when it’s live.
In the meantime, please pay a visit to our sister sites, HGTVRemodels.com and FrontDoor.com, to learn more about the construction of this year’s home and its picturesque mountainside location.
Whoa I wonder what its gonna be like!
Commenting hasn't been disabled? Now that's a curious turn.
Well, we can still check out the HGTVRemodels.com and FrontDoor.com sites while we talk turkey during the construction period.
Hi Coop, How was your trip to Thailand? Since I have just been able to come on the site, all of the new developments with the Midway home are going to be a total surprise.
Hi Janzee. Happy Turkey-free Thanksgiving day! (Homer thanks you.)
I was lucky to have great weather during my stay in Thailand, considering the devastating floods in the North and in Bangkok. I enjoyed each and every day there, and though I came to miss my home and my dog after being gone a month, once I'm back in the States, I remember fondly my Thai "home" and look forward to my return next year. I especially miss the Thai food.
It's such a joy to wake in the mornings to a view of the small town below my Phuket home and the sparkling Andaman Sea spread out before me in a glorious panorama. Now I have to be satisfied with a sunlit desert landscape, palm trees swaying in a gentle breeze, and the mighty San Jacinto Mountains, already sprinkled with the season's first snowfall, rising to an impressive 8,500 feet in the very near background.
Well, never mind. It's a burden of my own choosing. After all, there's always the beauty and comforts of San Diego to fall back on when life becomes too mundane and I must go in search of new adventures. As for Terri, she's quite content to hang out at home year 'round.
Speaking of adventures, I'm on pins and needles wondering what the new and improved blog format Mary and friends are working on will bring us, and when it will be up and running. Soon I hope.
I'm sure you'll enjoy catching up with all of the fun and games here in the blogs. While we're on the subject, how are you and life treating each other these days. With kindness, I hope, and the promise of mutually beneficial ventures on the horizon.
Onward and upward — or better yet, onward and forward, at a pace that's comfortable, enjoyable and rewarding. 'Tis the season!
Cheers!
Dearest Coop, what a beautiful sincere response, As always I traveled with you in my mind's eye to your beloved Phuket, was concerned about the flooding and your safety, and then experienced a vista moment as you described your view of the Andaman Sea high atop your condo. So delicious that you were surrounded by the best and most exotic food in the world. Shame that you had to come back to glorious weather, burnished colors of your desert landscape, and the majesty of the San Jacintos– ha ha just kidding!! I can just see your little Terri, with what looks like the beginning of a doggie smirk. As dog parents we start to relish the signs and wonders that demonstrate new levels of intelligence and endear us to these little souls.
Coop, I am also wondering about the new format, I've had some amazing converversations with the peeps on the blog, and would put my dibs in for some sort of short voice conferencing.
Life on the home front is copasetic, but very busy, especially with some new work opps and travel to areas around Cali. My vision is to find a more permanent and perhaps rural place to reside. Camarillo may be a possibility. Coop your gentle good wishes, and "where are you in your life" comment is so soothing- just like you to ask. We all always feel your good nature, ease and grace and sincerity which makes it a joy to come and hang out at blog.
Thanks for the good seasons cheers, the invite to the games and best of all for the hand of warm friendship on this blog. Love to you Cooper!!!
Oh for crying out loud, what are we going to do for fun around here?! Can't wait to see the new version! Please don't keep us waiting too long, Mary!
Here's what the "Turkey Trot" looks like in beaUTiful Midway… http://www.flickr.com/photos/67137540@N05/sets/72…
Awwww…….
I wonder if they are going to decorate our house for Christmas? That would be AMAZING!!!!
Then they can give the decorations to the winner!!
You will for sure have to take pictures of that Beehivestate!!
I doubt if they will, since not everyone celebrates the holiday. However, it would be really fun if the exterior were decorated a little bit, at least a wreath on the door would be pretty. And WAIT! I just got a brilliant inspiration… to get one of those reindeer antler hats and sneak up to the back fence… surprise the heck out of BBLRB!!
I don't know. Does he have any type of protection if a wild animal attacks him? I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of that confrontation!!
Do they have a Swiss Christmas in Midway? When do people start decorating for Christmas?
People are already decorating. We usually wait but this year we decided to do it in the coming week. Swiss Christmas is at the Midway Town Hall next weekend on Friday and Saturday. It's always fun. Last year I sold a couple small quilts.
How much are your quilts?
Depends on size and complexity, materials used and quilting on the surface. I make them to please myself and if someone likes, occasionally I will sell but I don't do commission work unless I have complete control.
We don't read very well, do we? lol
What? We're not supposed to be here?!
lol I don't know.? Are we? I would miss it too much if we weren't supposed to be on here!
Just because Mary is on hiatus, obviously doesn't mean we bloggers are! Maybe she forgot to lock down the blog before she left for the holidays. Rather like teenagers when Mom, and Dad got out of town. We'll just throw a party in her absence.
For games, we can start by playing pin the curtains on the DH windows, a game like paper dolls, where you get to choose your curtains, then pin them to the window while blindfolded.
Then we can play Name That Designer. A game where you must match the HGTV designer to the pictures of rooms they have decorated.
If time allows we can play Wheel of Misfortune. A game where improper use of the color wheel results in horrendously designed rooms, and HGTV must come to the rescue.
We can pop over to the Food Network for some snack ideas.
Whats that you say, Mary's just pulled into the parking lot. Quick, get the vacuum out, we gotta get this place cleaned up!
Hey Missy AnneEliseSouth, this sounds a little like The Dr. Suess stories with Thing 1, and 2. Well you know in the old days, we always had a little innocent mischief on the blog, and then tidied up and were ready for the next great adventure. Your suggestions for a progressive Food Network, and Design fest sounds fun.
Wow! Ask and ye shall receive! Yesterday I told Addy243 that I wished I could find a weathervane for our roof. And just now I was over at a local Midway shop called "All That Stuff in the Barn" and I found four weathervanes… my favorite was the copper moose and there was also a copper elk and a weathered bronzed golfer and a bronze/green angel. I liked the moose, of course it was $299 so I doubt it will be appearing any time soon on my abode. Who would put up a golfer weather vane? Go figure.
I should have said "I wish someone would GIVE me a weathervane" or "I wish I could find a weathervane that is second-hand" or like that.
beehive beehive, howz the weather in Midway for a wayfaring traveler, and is it a good time to take a spin out your way?
It was warm today and in Midway, in the high 40's but in Salt Lake City, it was 62 degrees. No snow forecast for the coming week at least. The ski resorts are open and I'm told that skiing at Park City Mountain Resort is limited in area but the snow is great. The Dream Home was beautiful tonight as we drove by, all the porch lights were turned on. People are starting to decorate for Christmas. We have not much snow on the ground here at all now but there is maybe an inch or so in Park City. Pretty good for travel in Utah at least. Come see us!
Oh honey, what a beautiful comment, and so inviting. It warms my heart just to picture the lights in Salt Lake, and Midway, and all the neighbors getting together for the holidays!!!!! I can't wait to come to you- dont know exactly when, but Lord willing I will. Happy Blessed Thanksgiving with all the trimmings. Namaste
If you are here in the holiday season, one of the beautiful things to see in Salt Lake City is the Temple Square. They have Christmas creches from all countries, all over the world, and to see it all lit up at night is wonderful. If the weather holds, though, you might want to come after they start the tours for the Dream Home. I don't know if that will be in December or January. You have a wonderful day, too, Janzee. Good to have your creative energy and happy spirit back on the blog. I've missed you!
You know you could hint – Christmas is coming.
I tried that, I doubt it “took” after I told him how much it cost!
Oh GREAT!! Now we will all be in trouble for messing with her stuff!! lol
Me and my sister had a party at Prom once when my parents were at a bowling tournament. We THOUGHT we had everything cleaned up before they came home, but we were mistaken!
And speaking of making a mess, did anybody else see this on TV last night? http://shine.yahoo.com/moments-of-motherhood/vide…
No I didn't see it until now, wow that is crazy! where was their Mom at that time?
Mom said it was just one of those things that happened while she stepped out for a minute. Some people are saying the video was staged, I don't know.
What is she thinking? The reaction her husband will have when he gets home, before the mess AND the boys are cleaned up? I don't know if I could be that calm, actually. I like her comment she made about a snowman pucking all over the room. lol
I'm excited! ANDDDD only a few more days until the virtual tour
What is the address to the home? I wanna look it up on Google Earth
Emily, look up 2400 River Road, Midway UT and you will be right about there. Then look for a little development and a round-about and a vacant lot. The google earth doesn't show the current construction but you can see the river, the property… it's neat. Someone else on here might tell you the exact address and I'm sure if we looked at some of my recent photos, the house number is on the front of the house.
While the blog is on hiatus and you're waiting for the turkey to cook, here's an upbeat dance routine you can practice to try out on family and friends for pre-Thanksgiving dinner entertainment. Definitely NOT an AFTER-dinner activity. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhwWlqTE8bU&fe…
This reminds me of some of the high steppin I saw on the Macy's parade today. HeeHaw
The first year we lived here, we attended a "Cowboy Poetry" event and I struck up conversation with an old man who told me he lived in Wallsburg and he was a square dance caller and his name was Cal Giles. A few years later, I mentioned that to my hairdresser and she said "That's my grandpa!"
Now that we've lived here awhile, I know that Giles is a pioneer family in the Heber Valley. It's a small world, after all.
Hi bee, what a beautiful Americana story. You are a super messenger for finding out about the world around you, and it's delightful, that people feel so welcome in your presence. This is always the butter that opens a good tale. It would be wonderful to live in a community where the footprints of a square dance can lead to this country's history, a loaf of bread is where the wind blows through the open fields, and your friends and neighbors steward the land so we can all go fishing and traverse the shiney polished stones in the Provo River.
Thanks, Janzee. Since becoming a blogger with the HGTV friends, I've developed a passion for the history of the Heber Valley and have been photographing all the old houses. I even have a list from the National Historic Register and when I drive around, I look for the homes on my list. It is so much fun!
Dear Bee aka local historian. I don't know if you posted any of the pics of the old homes, but please let me know where I can read about them . It's these stories and connection to Midway or other areas around the country that make us aware that the home is really vested in the community and part of the history. How great that you are creating your own historic legacy, and documented as well.
Hi Janzee, I might post my file of homes on the historic register and what I've found about them. I have many many pictures in my file I call “this old house” and the historic ones I call “house hunters” because I'm driving around hunting for them off an address list. It's fun. There is a book I'm looking for called “How Beautiful Upon the Mountains: A Centennial History of Wasatch County,” it's out of print and very expensive bu some day I will find it on a used book table or like that. Meanwhile, I just get bits and pieces about the homes here and there, from people who have lived here a long time and sometimes from online sources. This is the first time ever that I've been interested in historic homes, I don't know what's gotten into me? I guess it's just Midway fever!
I saw this on the Green Home page a couple of days ago; what a funny caption and picture for the message.
Are we there yet? Great!! Construction ahead.o.0 It's gonna be another few days=/
Happy Thanksgiving everybody!! Stay safe. We'll see you at the unveiling of that gorgeous Utah Dream Home.
We're more than Midway, it won't be long now.
Hi Cams, our first warm get togethers with the blog were just a bout thisa time of year. You always had so many things up your sleeve, riddles, and challenges, poetry and all kinds of things to keep this group delighted and challenged. Happy Thanksgiving
Hello dearest friends,my wishes to you are for a wonderful Thanksgiving to everyone on the blog, and to the folks at HGTV- to family and friends, here in the U.S. and abroad. I think whatever Mar and the gang are planning is going to be better than ever, and wouldn't be surprised if an audio conferencing strand could be in place. Just a guess. We have so much catching up to do, and I will share a few travels as I have had the traveling bug recently. Tahachapi California on the first day of the first snow was the most recent and is a beautiful place. A mountain town/city about two hours from Studio City, is not only a retreat, but an eco friendly community surrounded by windmills, and organic gardening programs.
What do you think of our house Janzee? Seems you have been gone a long time as I am kinda new to this blog for this Dream Home. I saw some posts of yours before and I thought you were fun to read so that may be one of the reasons I started to post here.
I have made a few friends on here as well! Beehivestate, in particular! But isn't she EVERYONE'S friend? :* She does GREAT things for us and is a great inspiration as are TONS of people on this blog. I also think the voice thing would be wonderful. Talk to you soon!!
Dear BrendainKs, I am so happy to hear and see all the friends you've made on the site. Yes that precious bee is quite a precious flower. Thanks for the support for the voice conferencing idea. In answer– I love the Midway house in so many ways. I get this big feeling of taking a huge deep breath- it's that wide open spaces thing, a place to hang your hat, a field to meander and find critters who share the land.
The gang at HGTV has a very special relationship with the space they choose to build, and the design is not like any I have seen. The house itself reminds me of a wonderful cowboy lodge I spent time at as a kid, There are fond memories of crackling fire places, wild horses and some of the creeks that mom took this older Tom boy to fish. In the last few years the connection to HGTV has inspired me to travel and actually investigate new areas. I sure do want to see the Provo River and spend some time in Salt Lake.
Friends are wonderful here on the blog BK. Each person here near and far, has so much to share, and we've all learned and benefited from these amazing friendships.
Yes, Beehivestate is THE BEST!!! I have received a lot of support from several people on different issues since I started on this blog which is just this past Summer, I think.
I want to go to Midway so badly, I can taste the fish and feel and smell the mountain air on my face!!! One day I WILL move there!!
Hey is your name Brenda? I'll stoke up the fire on this and tell you that moving there sounds like a plan. What if we all meet around the time of the Sundance Festival. This year the whole group of us really need to see each other face to face and giggle the whole night away. There is a huge celebration just around the corner. At least that's my hopes and dreams.
Yes it is!
I will start saving up so I can go to Midway!! I love hopes and dreams!! What would we have without them?
We WILL laugh and giggle all night long and our faces and stomachs will hurt before the evening is over!!! I can't wait!!!!
Hi dear Janzee–sounds like you have been on some happy trails…the retreat sounds wonderful . Hope your holidays have been great.
Dearest Dearest Coles, I have been on some interesting trails. Howz by you? I told bee the other day that in the next few weeks, I would love to get into to Salt Lake and then meander over to Midway before it gets to cold.
Happy Thanksgiving !
I thought this was a wonderful sentiment for the day from Midway:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/silbermanlaw/3064649…
Beehivestate, do you know the Silbermans?
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Don't recognize the Silbermans but do recognize the scenic view.
Hey CplusE Happy Thanksgiving to you my friend. What a great photo what a land what place what a state. Wow!!
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone associated with our Dream Home!!! May blessings for you be overflowing! May God Bless You All!!
And so it begins…….my sister comes to my house and TAKES OVER MY KITCHEN!!!! It happens at least twice a year! Christmas is the other.
Next year, I may not invite her OR I have everything done before she comes over.
My condolences Brenda, my guests were invited just before everything should be ready !;)
Good thinking!!
Yah, but there I was taking a breather, when some helpful ones decided to let me sit while they brought out the UNFINISHED food. Embarrassed, I collected the food, smiled, and took it all back to the kitchen for reheating and garnishing! Oh well it was all delicious. I always make more than I need so there will be plenty of leftovers.
Yes, that happens too. STAY OUT OF MY KITCHEN!!! You are the guests, not the cook!!
Would you come here next year, maybe they will listen to you!
lol.
I wish I was that brave myself!!! 
Next year you may be in your new Dream Home and you'll be inviting everybody and not caring who does what!
Yes, could be!! She may not even come see me. It will probably be too far for her to drive.
I may not care who is cooking. I may be ready to decorate for Christmas!!! The thing about our house is that it has a game room which is on the other side of the house. Which everyone can go to until dinner is ready, then I won't care if she is there. The game room will keep her mind off of me and "helping."
Please don't get me wrong, I love my sister, but she's the oldest and everything she says is right no matter if it's wrong, she's right.
If you win, it will be April and you won't have to worry about her showing up for months. Your last comment makes me wonder if my younger sibs think I'm one who has to be "always right." Well, nothing I can do about it and at this point in my life, I seriously don't care too much what they think. I'm going to do as I please, just as they do.
She will probably think now that you are well-to-do, you can buy her a plane ticket to visit. What about winning and not telling?
Hope you had a good enough day today, I've been a lazy-no-good and tomorrow it's back to normal. I've spent the day reading the latest Sue Grafton novel, and I'm not done yet so I will be up late.
lol. About winning and not telling…..it may be a little difficult when the world sees me on HGTV, someone recognizes me and calls my sister ASAP and asks about it. She won't believe them in the first place. Then she will call me and I won't be able to answer my phone because I will be in the company of John, Candice, Jack, and Linda I probably won't answer my phone after that…..EVER!! lol And you can just come SEE ME!!!
Seems like when a family member moves somewhere, we all want to see where and how they live. I guess it's human nature for that.
Yes, all in all it was a good day. I hope you had a relaxing Thanksgiving!!!
I got up early and did a bit of "Black Friday" shopping at Buggy Barn Quilts in Reardon WA. I'm shopping but just for myself, so far! I can't think of what to get my DH yet, or the "kids," but I'm sure the inspiration will hit me.
I'm going to the gym now and after that, finish my book.
Where? Washington? How far is that? I guess I COULD look for myself. After all, I have my hands on the source of that information as we speak!! :p
It's good to buy for yourself sometimes! If you didn't, you wouldn't get what YOU want! Always what other people think you should have!
<a href="http://www.buggybarnquilts.com” target=”_blank”>www.buggybarnquilts.com Today I bought two kits, one was the "Go Fish." It will be so cute in the Dream Home, if you win, Brenda, I'll give it to you!
http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Brows…
Thanks Beehivestate!! You are sooooooo sweet!!
That Go Fish quilt would be so cute in the Dream Home!
I know, that's why I'm going to make it! I did a whole trunk show of BB for my guild in Haines Alaska a couple years ago.
Wyoming, get yourself their easiest book, "Star Crossing," and try a few stars just with fabric-on-hand. Make four of the 12" stars for a table runner out of sale Christmas fabric. You'll be hooked! I loved these designs for years and was intimidated by them until a member of our guild in Midway basically "shamed" me into trying. So I said, "If Gayle can do it, I can do it" and I made the pattern "My Three Stars." A large quilt… made it almost all in one day! I didn't even use my best fabric b/c I thought I'd ruin it and it turned out so cute
I had so much fun that for the next year, all I made was Buggy Barn! I have almost all their books (except the applique ones).
You've inspired me — I'm going to bookmark that right now!
Awesome!! If you get stuck, you can call on me but I'm sure you can do it. Did you know BB has gift certificates?! One year my DH gave me one and I had the most fun spending it! Get on the BB mailing list so you can find out when they have sales. Usually around Christmas/New Year there is a good sale. Hey, if there is a way to get your address, I will send you something BB to get you started. Are you on FB?
i stopped inviting one of my sis-in-laws because she would take all my leftovers home, without the courtesy of bringing her own containers !!! After dinner, I always lie down for a rest, & she waited until I was asleep & took half my turkey & everything !!!
What a turkey!
I AM thankful I have a sister and a brother. They can be pains sometimes, but I love them anyway.
I am certain I can be a pain too.
I suppose we must assume that the only construction Mary is involved with today is Thanksgiving dinner. It could be a long weekend, folks. Well, we can make do with leftovers for a few days.
Of course, that means come Monday, we'll have great expectations. A fresh menu and a spanking new blog format. What a great start to the holidays!
In the meantime, let's enjoy the spirit (and when appropriate, the spirits) of the season. Here's to friends, family and new blog formats!
As the turkey cooks, we sit here and think. May you all have a filling (not too much) restive, and
pleasureful Thanksgiving. Careful out there if you have to drive – be careful and watch out for
those who have forgotten how to be careful. Hugs and warmth to you all!!
To you, too, Sandy. xo
Thank you Bee, that felt soooooo good!
Awwww…..I want one too!!
xo
XOXOXX for Brenda!
THANKS Sandy!!! XOXOXOXOXO!!!
xo from the Beehive State, to a beaUTiful girl
Dear SandyLA, Well I was somewhat careful. I ate so much, am very thankful, still eating, always thankful, soup's up. Just wanted to say warm hugs to you. In the next few months will be moving again, and I wind up in Thousand Oaks I'll give you a holler. Love to you.
Wow, All around me Janice. Which part of TO?
"Not knowing when the dawn will come, I open every door." … Emily Dickinson
Happy Thanksgiving, with gratitude for all my new friends on this blog. Be well. Peace.
Just in case you need an instant infusion of holiday spirit after a very lively, "full-filling" and possibly exhausting Thanksgiving Day, save room (or better yet, book a room) for the grand Christmas lighting ceremony at the Mission Inn in Riverside, CA.
I'm planning on turning my wild and wooly Black Friday shopping spree into a dazzling and delightfully Brilliant Friday showstopper with a much anticipated visit. Allow yourself to be swept away by more than 3.6 million holiday lights transforming Riverside's historic hotel into an entire city block of pure magic. The annual festival begins the day after Thanksgiving, on Friday, November 25th with a celebratory lighting ceremony featuring a full fireworks display, and continues through Sunday, January 8th. With live entertainment, seasonal touches throughout, including horse-drawn carriage rides, freshly fallen snow and special appearances by Santa Claus and his reindeer.
True, it's not the HGTV Dream Home, but the Mission Inn does become a holiday paradise for young and old alike. All part of the dream, compliments of the Mission Inn in Riverside. As for the other paradise, well, come to think of it, the Dream Home is riverside as well … the Provo River that is.
http://www.missioninn.com/festival-of-lights/inde…
Wish I could see it, it sounds incredible. I will content myself with living in the "other paradise," halfway to heaven.
BTW, there was an article about DBCooper in the morning paper. Apparently it is suspected that he was from Provo and attended BYU! How funny.
Funny you should post this Bee thought you would find this interesting since you are from here. Hope I can post it correctly if not I will try later. It takes a few moments for it to download. BTW don't think our fearless leader is THE DB Cooper but only the Shadow Knows! http://www.king5.com/news/local/40-years-after-th…
Alice, that was the same article in the Salt Lake Tribune this morning. It was funny to me that he should be such a legend after all this time. Wasn't there even a song about him? I hope you are having a wonderful day. I'm just “resting up” so I can go tomorrow and get into some mischief and do some on-line shopping for quilt stuff.
Mission Inn lighting celebration update: the fireworks display was awesome, among the most colorful I've ever witnessed. The crowd was estimated at 250,000. (Not hard to believe considering the crush of people. City streets around the Mission Inn were blocked off for pedestrian use.) Dinner at "Phood on Main" was exceptional as always. Even the warmish temps in the mid-60's did little to dampen the Christmas season enthusiasm of the crowd or the children with the various food booths, carolers and even an enclosure for some real reindeer — though Rudolph was noticeably absent. There was even an ice-skating rink set up with a few hardy souls happily attempting to stay upright. (I was not one of them.)
All in all, a memorable evening. Especially when I stepped on the scales at the gym this afternoon! Oh well, 'tis the season to eat and eat and eat beyond all reason!
Wow!!!!
Looks heavenly!!!
I'm starting to think our DB is of the female persuasion !!!
LOL! It wouldn't be the first time there's been that kind of speculation on the blogs, gremol. Rest assured, however, that DB Coop is indeed the masculine Yang that balances his complimentary opposite, the feminine Yin. Together, Yin and Yang manifest an interconnected duality that are part of a dynamic force, the source of life itself.
There , you see, that's the longer answer to your question. The short answer? You can just call me Mr. Coop. D.B. for short. Even plain old Coop will do. And wonder no more! ^_^
Thanksgiving, family and friends reminds us of this song and his art. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1grFg_A6s8A&fe…
Loved it, especially the first and last picture. This style of art is something like Robert Duncan in Midway, only Duncan's is more rural-flavored.
Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!
Hope you had a marvelous Thanksgiving Day. Are you still eating leftovers?
Amazing how the HGTV and DIY blogs are home to many unique history-making adventures and colorful personalities. From Dream Homes to design divas, delightful celebrities to downright endearing blog devotees.
There are, however, two unusually strong characters, and you might think, unlikely candidates who have, inexplicably, woven themselves into the fabric of American folklore, and into the Dream Home blog.
You see, first there was the legend of Davy Crockett. Then came the spell-binding true story of D B Cooper. Now, thanks to another HGTV legend, expert site locator Jack T, the tale of Davy Crockett and D B Cooper just might be forever linked in our minds — with a little help from the following tune:
KING OF THE WILD FRONTIER
Born near a river in Heber Valley
Greenest place in the Land of the Free
Raised in the hills so's he knew every tree
Run from a b'ar when he was only three.
DB, DB Cooper, King of the wild frontier!
Lookin' fer a place where the air smells clean
Where the trees is tall and the grass is green
Where the fish is fat in an untouched stream
And the forest land is a hunter's dream.
DB, DB Cooper, Myst'ry man o' the year!
Off through the woods he's a marchin' along
Makin' up yarns an' a singin' a song
Itchin' for a fight, don't look at 'im wrong
Totin' stacks o' bills, ya' gotta be strong.
DB, DB Cooper, The Northwest's buccaneer!
Midway's got the home for his family,
Happy as squirrels in the ol' gum tree,
Providin' it all's how it oughta be
Cozyin' up like the pod and the pea.
DB, DB Cooper, Sky jumpin' pioneer!
His dreams are big and this here Dream Home's best
From grassy plains to the mountain crest
This ramblin' ranch is sure meetin' the test
Follow the legend, it's leadin' him West.
DB, DB Cooper, King of the wild frontier!
(I extend my thanks to Davy and D B for the inspiration.)
I laughed so hard I almost cried, as I was singing along in my head as I read your "lyrics." Davy Crockett was a popular TV show when I was a little girl. When i was 11, I had my tonsils out and I stayed the afternoon in a "ward" in a hospital in Seattle. My father stayed with me and he went out to the bookstore and bought the book of Davy Crockett and read it to me while I was recovering and until we went home that afternoon. I don't know how you come up with these associations but that was really a good one.
Love it!!! remember that song too!! Davy….Davy Crockett. King of the Wild Frontierrrrrr!!!! I don't remember how OLD I was at that time, but I do remember my dad watching it all the time. We weren't able to watch anything except what Dad wanted to watch. Especially when he was at home. On Saturdays, he usually worked, so we were able to watch cartoons.
"School House Rock" was the one thing that helped me graduate from high school! I am sure of it. All of the songs I had to sing to myself when we had tests so I could remember them!!
I can recite the Preamble verbatim!!! It's not that I am smart, it's just from watching Saturday morning cartoons!!!
Hilarious, Coop! I was singing along, too, although my glasses must have a spot on them, because I saw "Makin' up YAMS" instead of yarns, and it made no sense to me. Thanks for the grin, and thanks for putting that song in my head as an earworm all day!!
Sang and laughed as well. But at my age when I laugh too hard a few of the tears run down my
leg! When I was young, television hadn't been invented yet! Well at least I hadn't heard of it, but
I knew who Davy Crockette was – but I don't remember why. Thanks Coop, I always love your
songs. .;)
Can't wait till next Thursday! They should have a countdown on the homepage. Did everyone have a good Thanksgiving!?
Yep, Grandson came!
That's nice!
This is a very pretty song and with some nice pictures too. Some of them I think were taken in Utah. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52kBbsjhyd8&fe…
Yes they were. Isn't this a beaUTiful little world we live in? I'm so glad for it all. Thank you for getting my day off to a good start.
This is what I have been doing all day today. Achoo! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPVU5-fPkKo&fe…
It is awfully quiet here do you think we will all be sent to the Principal's Office when Mary finds out we sneaked into her closed blog?
http://dir.coolclips.com/Household/Bathroom/Perso…
here you go, alice
Too Funny!!!
Of course not Alice, they left it open to see what we would talk about. They wanted to also see
what they could learn from Beehivestate!
Shall I go take a photo of the backyard today? It's a nice day, the mountains are out, and "Leroy" probably is bored down there by himself lol.
Do It!!!!! I'm not going to stop you!!
Is the scenery better during daylight hours or night time hours?
Best in the day. After dark I can't get back behind the house b/c I can't see the trail.
So have you been to take pictures yet?
No b/c I've been sewing! Wyoming Girl “made” me get all excited about my next quilt, so I'm upstairs at “The Flying Q Ranch” making patterns. My fabric should come in the mail next week so I'll be all ready to sew. Maybe tomorrow for the pix.
Oh, How FUN!!! I would like to watch you sometime.
I'll take the blame for that, Midway! I went to Jackson yesterday and just wandered around the quilt shop, thinking of you. I looked for cheap Christmas fabric for that Ross' Star quilt, but of course it isn't on sale yet. I may have to wait until after Christmas and make it for next year. That fits my schedule better anyway!
Good good good, I'm excited for you! That is a very cute shop in Jackson. I bought an Eleanor Burns book on Barns there a couple years ago. Nice people, too.
Absolutely Bee, “they know what is going on”.We deserve a little dessert here! Not from you,You are doing this out of the kindness of your heart. The dessert should come from Dream Home, but if it comes too late, oh well……..
Sandy, the mountains are absolutely splendid in beauty today! You would be so happy if you could see them. My oh my!
Happy Face with a smile that is wide. It is always gorgeous looking at the Rocky MTs from my daughter’s side. From her Hugh window we can even see it when it snows there, before it gets to her house. Nature in all her glory!
Do you think Leroy will get bored enough to start dancing like this Security Guard did? Can just picture Leroy dancing and you taking pictures of him how funny. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXI5KJ6yBr0&fe…
Alice, that was so “bad!” Somehow I don't think Leroy is as light on his feet but you never know.
Last night was the tree lighting at Temple Square in Salt Lake City. Wait till you see it!!!
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=picture+of+ch…
My BF just broke up with me in a text and it's ALL MY fault, of course!!
How awful – on Thanksgiving? Brenda, you are sweet and thoughtful, it couldn't be your
fault! :S
If he didnt' have the guts to talk to you then- you are better off.
GOOD RIDDANCE! If you win the Dream Home, you want a fresh start anyway. Now you have all the possibilities before you!
Awwww…..I love you guys!!!! <3
Stupid boy!
He acts like a selfish child when he doesn't get his way….but he is in his early to mid 50's. Today, he is acting SSOOOOOOO nice to me and telling me he will pay for my gas and everything. WHY do people do that? This has happened so many times. I may never get rid of him….. he's very controlling.
This is why I need to leave town.
Come on down here.
Hi Brenda–"controlling" is not what people need in a love interest… if you are a single mom, he probably figures he can weasel his way back into the relationship by offering to help out financially. You do not need to give him a minute more of your time or attention, because it sounds as though you have your mind made up that he is not mature enough emotionally to be a partner.
Always be careful though, in leaving a controlling relationship. Seek advice from a helpline in your area, to be on the safe side.<3
Well, it sounds dangerous to me. Get some help if you think you need it. You've got to finish school and become financially independent… and I would move away, if possible. Easy for me to say, I know. This isn't love.
Yes, I need to move away! Even my boss told me that.
Thank you for your concern!!!
<3
Start by changing your thinking to "I CAN make it on my own."
"I CAN make it on my own!" "I CAN make it on my own!" "I CAN make it on my own!! " Thank you Beehivestate!!! a.k.a. …. !!
It brought me peace to say those words!
I can't wait to meet you!! HUGS!!
I sound like “the little engine that could,” remember that book?! “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can” make it up this hill.
Yes, I remember the book! I forget the end of the story, though. Does he make it up the hill? Of course, those kinds of books always have a happy ending!! :p
Those pictures are beaUTiful!!! I can't wait to see them next year! Thank you for sharing!! You are so sweet!!!
XOXO
Bee, the Christmas lighting pictures are very professional, but I want to know who all the people
are. I love looking at pictures! There isn't an ugly one in the bunch, in fact they are all unusually
good looking. Who is the pink bowed baby?
Don't have a clue!
Great pictures THANK YOU for shareing them with us!
I am disappointed, I thought these were your personal pictures! They were great even if theyweren’t yours.
Thanks, Sandy, but those were off of the web. It's been a couple years since we got down there to see the lights. They were great pictures! I should have mentioned that they weren't mine. My bad.
Wonder if there will be a new blog?
The blog doesn't go away, does it? That would make me sad!
Me too!! Where would I get my support system?
What will we do without a BLOG when the tour starts in a few days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If this blog shuts down ,try the D.I.Y. Blog Cabin or the H.G.T.V. Green Home Blog!
Oops, the green home blog is shut down for now but it will be back by then. (I hope.)
Mary, thank you for not disabling the posting on here. We're having fun and we don't want the party to be over! The "fat lady" didn't sing yet, either.
AMEN to that!!! I think we would all go crazy if we didn't have the blog!!!
Love this blog & all of you!
you know what guys i have a strong feeling that i am going to win the 2012 dream home but then i will not know what to do i dont think i can afford a home this nice with taxes and all. so im going to need you guys help what should i do.
Don't talk about the "T" word on here, it will spoil your luck. That's my advice and I'm sticking to it!!
I agree with the very wise beehivestate. This home is for dreaming, and I don't know of anyone who dreams about taxes unless that dream turns into a nightmare. The one winner will get financial guidance, but until then, enjoy the home and the dream!
The winner could make it a vacation home & share it with a group of bloggers!
Hi Ways, I see you are up early like me. The blog is a fun place to be, even when it's dark outside. Only a few more days and we'll be REALLY excited. Yesterday at the quilt shop, a group of us were talking about the Dream Home, they said "biggest thing to happen in little Midway in years."
YAYYYY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The early brid catches the worm.L.O.L.
Early is as early does and life is like a box of chocolates. xo lol
Thanks Bee & have a good day!
I'm going to exercise and then I'm going to quilt, so it will be an awesome day! I can see the mountains from my sewing room window and the sun is shining, all is well and all is well.
This is a cute video clip! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ey4IeVB4_eY&fe…
How funny, I thought he was going to wait till the mom went in the kitchen and then eat them for her.
Thank you Alice!! I loved watching the Cosby Show!!
Rudy was the same age as my granddaughter is now…too cute ! Those shows were great.
I thought she was going to give the brussel sprouts to the dog under the table, I kept looking!
Soney and I can't stay very far away from Hawai'i. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGe302ADCJY&fe…
I love his guitar!
Relaxing music…Hawaii has even more appeal as weather gets colder here !
Alice and soney, how's that liquid sunshine up there in God's country? Stay warm. I always look for what you come up to post for us. You are a rock star on here!
Bee you know my Dad always called it God's country too! You only have one guess about what the weather is like here today, sunshine you say, wrong answer! Wondered if you ever went shopping at Pacific Iron and Metal's Fabric Store here in Seattle on 4th Ave S. Big old building and on the 2nd floor just packed with material and sewing supplies. Fun to go to just to hear the old wooden floor creak! All my friends here make me feel welcome and it is fun to post all kinds of music and silly things. Remember when you said you were probably the only one that didn't watch Friends the tv show, well me neither. Very seldom did I watch tv during the long time I was in the Army. After that didn't even have a tv set until my son got me one. Then only watched HGTV or the History Channel. Take care Bee and tell LeRoy hi for me!
Yes, I did frequent Pacific Iron & Metal. In later years, it was “Pacific Fabrics” and the closest store to me was Puyallup (now that store is closed). Also, the store in Bremerton, we shopped there for quilting fabric. My fav program on the History Channel is “American Pickers.” We used to get National Geographic Channel and I liked “Dog Whisperer” with Cesar. I bet Soney would like that show!
JOHNNY, THE DREAMER
It was a cold and dreary winter's night, Christmas Eve no less. Bundled up as best he could in a thin, time-worn and tattered bathrobe, young Johnny sat quietly, somberly, in the cold and drafty, dimly lit room and tried not to think too much about his rather bare-looking Christmas tree. With a single strand of lights as its only decorations, and not a present in sight under its thin, dry boughs, Christmas Day seemed to hold little promise for the young man.
Weary from the day's long and harsh work, Johnny finished the last sip of his once-a-year special reward, a cup of hot spiced apple cider, and turned in for the evening. He slipped into a chilly bed, curling up against the cold, waiting for his body heat to slowly warm him under the covers.
Part 3
With only the lightest of curtains on his bedroom window, Johnny often woke up early, at least on those mornings when the sun decided to shine brightly through the small window panes of his room. That morning, unusual for the season and the recent stormy, overcast skies, the sun's warming rays were unexpected but more than welcome. "Today is Christmas Day," he said cheerfully, jumping right out of bed, though no one else was around to hear his hopeful words.
To his complete, utter surprise, under the sparsely decorated Christmas tree, he saw two beautifully wrapped presents, one large and one smaller, with bright ribbons and bows that spoke of thoughtful and very carefully wrapped gifts. Johnny was totally amazed. How on earth? Who could possibly have…? Why were they under HIS tree? When did…? He quickly remembered the strange noise that woke him last night. But he was sure the gifts weren't there when he'd cautiously looked about his tiny home for any sign of things amiss earlier that night.
As if their appearance under his tree weren't strange enough, a quick look confirmed that, indeed, the presents said "To Johnny. From all your friends. Merry Christmas." In spite of his disbelief, with growing excitement, it didn't take him long to gather the courage to begin, carefully at first, and then with youthful abandon, to open these mysterious treasures.
Part 4
Imagine his amazement when from the smaller gift-wrapped box, Johnny found, to his delight ( for he owned not a one) a beautiful, clearly expensive and well-made pair of house slippers. They were made of glove soft leather, dyed a pale gray/blue with a velvety soft and warm, light gray lining. Stepping into them, they fit perfectly. The mystery deepened. How was his exact shoe size known by this unknown benefactor? He didn't linger over the question, and instead set to the task of unwrapping the larger box.
Completely overwhelmed, tears came to Johnny's eyes when from the tissue paper lining, he brought out the most luxuriously thick, pristine white cotton robe he could ever have dreamed. He immediately noticed the monogrammed letters on the upper front side as he held up the robe to admire its beauty. The letters were a pale gray/blue, matching the color of his slippers, on an embroidered light gray background. Reading those letters, Johnny was speechless, for they spelled out 'Dream Home 2012', and what's more, the belt was stitched in a gray/blue thread with the words 'Midway to Paradise.'
Part 5
"Somebody must be watching over me," he burst out joyfully. You see, Johnny was a devoted HGTV dreamer, and had entered the home giveaway sweepstakes faithfully every year. The Midway Dream Home, a neighbor to the well-known resort and charming ski destination of Park City, was one of his favorites. He dreamed endlessly of winning the rambling ranch set alongside the Provo River, with its scenic Wasatch Mountain views.
Would he ever find out who had played Santa that Christmas morning? Could they have any idea how much such a unbelievable gift the robe and slippers were for poor Johnny? Was this perhaps a sign of even greater things to come? Just think how incredible that would be, that his devotion, his love for all things HGTV, would be rewarded by an unseen hand, and that he, Johnny, would be the next lucky soul to receive an unexpected visit from the HGTV Surprise Team. Truly, that would be a win that would change his life for the better, forever. And so he dares to dream, and THAT, no one can take away from him.
Happy Holidays to Dreamers Everywhere!
I'm glad the Johnny has a computer so he can enter twice a day, or maybe all he has to do is go to the Heber City library and use the free computer. He probably lives walking distance or rides his bike. I'm glad to get up early, in the dark, and see the beautiful night sky and enjoyed your little story. What a treat!
Yes, it is!! Good morning!!
Thank you Coop!! You have increased my FAITH and HOPE in winning this Utah Dream and Journey!!! :*
It never hurts to take a refresher course in 'Hope' once a year at the very least! For it's our dreams that can give us strength during life's most difficult times, and right action that will carry us forward.
Of course, the HGTV home giveaway sweeps are always an added inspiration! As for me, I think I love the journey as much as the idea of achieving the goal.
Onward courageous bloggers and dreamers, wherever you may be. 'Tis the season, and we are now More Than Midway To Paradise!
Well said, that line about the journey. Thank you.
<3
When is the book coming out. HGTV is missing out by not using all the prolific
writers on the blog! Happy Holidays to you too .xD
Part 2
In the middle of the night, Johnny was suddenly awaken from a fitful and dreamless sleep by a rather loud and mysterious clatter. Did it come from outside? "Or maybe inside his modest house," he thought, with some alarm? He stepped out of his now warm bed onto the cold wooden floor and quietly slipped into his old robe. When Johnny glanced out his bedroom window, he saw, to his surprise, no unwelcome intruders, but a crystal clear, silver-shadowed moonlit night. "How wonderful," he whispered to himself, since he quickly realized that the evening's dark and heavy clouds had completely cleared away to reveal a perfect vision of winter's wonderland. With only a few small rooms to explore, and nothing visibly amiss, Johnny returned to the inviting comfort of his simple bed and pulled up the covers, grateful for the cozy quilt he had been given by his dear mother only a year before her untimely death. He closed his eyes, and was soon fast asleep.
Quote of the day:'True gratitude, like true love, must find expression in acts, not words."
R.MILDRED BARKER
And "love" is a verb.
Yes! Thank you Bee.
In keeping with the "verb" sentiment, I ironed all my husband's shirts that were in the laundry pile after his trip. Now I'm going to "verb" myself right up to the quilt room!
Good for you Bee!
You are a loving wife!!!
I can just feel ALL of the LOVE on this blog!!! I love it!!! We need more of this!!
I want to apologize for my negative comments.
For crying out loud, what were they?! lol Bake us a virtual cake and all is forgiven.
http://youtu.be/GXnGiv5rzWA
Please forgive me!!!
Red velvet whoopie pies? I never even heard of whoopie pies until 2009 when in VT.
I just looked back at the information from last year's Dream Home tours. They started January 7 and went through March 20. Mary announced the info on a blog post on December 22. I sure hope they are working on the schedule now so we can have similar dates this year. I need to make travel plans!!
http://www.hgtv.com/dream_home/hgtv-dream-home-20…
Hi Wyoming, I recall looking at that, too. Hope I get to see you when you come out here.
I missed all you guys. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. I was working. But still had a great day. Have been putting in overtime. So unusual lol. Love you all.
Missed you too ! Happy holidays, and hope you can rest up soon.
3 more days til the virtual tour!!! I am so excited!!!
You have NO idea!!!!
Today at church they served a special luncheon to celebrate Thanksgiving and the beginning of the Christmas season. During lunch they played Christmas songs on the piano. It was a nice day. Thought you might enjoy this video clip. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H10f2w7T5CU
They played this song too today. When she started playing it on the piano I thought of you Cami. Remember last year when I posted this song you said you had the sheet music to it. I can hear you playing it right now Cami. To all our friends this brings back memories. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q179uAUuCHU
OK, finally got off my tush and created an account so I can chat about the house.
BeeHiveState, I have a question. Does the nieghborhood have feel water or do they use city water? What about sewage, septic or city? So curious!
It's all city, far as I know they don't need wells out there. Sewer (not septic).
My parents live right outside San Antonio TX and they have their own water well and septic system. It's nice because they don't have a huge monthly water bill. But it's not like you have to water the grass all the time in Midway, so that saves a lot hehehe
With the transitional landscaping, there will be less need for water. However, there is sod lawn around the house and, I'm sure, a sprinkler system built-in.
I am just used to the horrible heat down here. I would love to have snow around me, a reason to have a fire going, and to cuddle with my kids under cozy blankets. Also to be so close to skiing aka the only sport I am talented at.
Well if you move here, I guarantee your fill of skiing! Be it Deer Valley, Park City Mountain Resort, The Canyons, Sundance, Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, etc., we have "the greatest snow on earth" in Utah!
Why would they put in a sprinkler system if they want minimal, non-manicured lawns?
Beats me but with as much yard as they have, they will need a system of some kind.
I feel so badly for Texas people. We just saw on the news that it's the worst drought in 100 years!
Oops *well water
New mac has autocorrect…torn about turning it off…lol
Good Morning,here is a new quote; "Friends are an indispensable part of a meaningful life.They are the ones who share our burdens and multiply our blessings.A true friend sticks by us in our joys and sorrows."Beverly Lahaye
Keep 'em coming… here's one for you back: "Nothing happens unless first a dream." Carl Sandberg
This needs to be on the wall of our Dream Home.
Thanks Bee,I realy like your quote.So nice of you to reply in that maner.
Here's another one about friends: "Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold."
Thanks, For the song.We use to sing that around the camp fire when I was 6! Little did I know ;That those words would be sent to be,by a new friend miles away in Uath on the W.W.Web.
Were you in girl scouts? Do you remember "She'll be comin' round the mountain when she comes"?
Yes, We had fun singing that one too.There are no mountians here in OHIO,So I'LL just try to picture you comin' round your mountains in your S.U.V.(instead of driving 6 white horses!)L.O.L.