
Posted by mgraff – November 24, 2008 8:53 AM
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First, let me thank you for all the great questions. I will be answering some of them in upcoming videos, so please be patient if you don't see your question answered here. I particularly love Marie Miller’s queries, especially the one about staying at the HGTV Dream Home 2009 while we shoot the videos. (Love that idea, Marie!) Unfortunately, no one - not even house planner Jack Thomasson or interior designer Linda Woodrum - gets to even sit on the furniture before the winner does. As for Sonoma dining recommendations? My list of favorites is way too long to share here. But if you do happen to visit Sonoma, please promise me you’ll try Della Santina's Trattoria in Sonoma Square.
I’ve come across many posts about the planning of HGTV Dream Home 2009: “Does the city put limitations on the builder?” “Who has the final say on the exterior wall and trim colors?”
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One last teaser for today: Guess which room I was in when I snapped this photo?
Your Super Fan,
Gail
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Gail, It looks like the picture was taken from the upper story, So I'm thinking probably the picture was taken from the master bedroom??? That is a really pretty view!
Posted by Carrie Miracle – November 24, 2008 9:50 AM
I love this house, But my question is why they did not built a wine cellar or something to that affect, Being that the home is in Sonoma, Which is one of my Favorites part of the Country, Have you ever taken a Hot Air Ballon Ride over the Wine Country, I bet that has to be spectacular, Think of all the things the Winner of this home can do. This time I'm going to wish upon every star to win this home.
Posted by Berta Alvarez – November 24, 2008 10:40 AM
Thanks, Gail.
Posted by Rita, A New Yorker – November 24, 2008 11:23 AM
From the photo, I'll guess you are in the bedroom next to the stairs; probably the bathroom.
Posted by Rita, A New Yorker – November 24, 2008 11:28 AM
Front house facing north from either bedroom. This is fun hunting and guessing. Thank you.
Posted by Tyler – November 24, 2008 11:38 AM
Hi Gail - Thank you for answering our questions! I will guess that the room may be the upstairs laundry room? BTW - what a practical laundry room location! When we lived in a 1920's Victorian during a short East Coast experience, our laundry area was in the basement. It's a thoughtful touch to have upstairs laundry, may I note. Looking forward to the answer.
Posted by Bonnie – November 24, 2008 12:31 PM
Hi Gail,
Since you seem to be on the second floor, I think that you took it from the master bedroom or bathroom. Thanks for answering all the questions that everyone has, and I hope we'll be able to see some inside pictures soon. This is truly a gorgeous home. I have never been to California, but, since Arizona is a lot closer than Michigan, I may make it there yet.
Barb from Tucson
Posted by bird lover – November 24, 2008 1:22 PM
Hey Gail,
My guess is that you were in the guest bedroom, when you took this photo! I can’t wait to find out (when do I find out)!
Thanks again for the great blog!
Who-Ga-Ma-Loo
Posted by Who-Ga-Ma-Loo – November 24, 2008 1:36 PM
Gail,
What an awesome home? Does it have a fall-out or bomb shelter?
Just in case! Thanks again. Can’t wait to see the next video!
Who-Ga-Ma-Loo
Posted by Who-Ga-Ma-Loo – November 24, 2008 1:39 PM
When does the Dream Home show air?
Posted by Shannon – November 24, 2008 3:10 PM
Hi Gail , thank's for all your answers . I guess the view is from master bathroom window - that's what you see beeing in the tub . Just dreaming...
Posted by Egle – November 24, 2008 4:19 PM
im not exactly sure where u took that picture from the home but its a really pretty view :) cant wait to see more...
Posted by emily (: – November 24, 2008 5:15 PM
Gail, you can't fool me. That's an oil painting. You can even see the bottom of the frame. I know the painter....let's see...oh heck, the name escapes me right now.
Gail, thanks for doing such a wondeful job answering our questions. I too, am a fan of Marie Miller's posts. As to where you took the picture, all the good guesses have been made. I like the laundry room guess. But after all the hard work Linda does, don't tell me she doesn't sit at the desk in the study, or try out the chairs (benches?) around the dining room table, relax for a moment on one of the beds, or use a toilet? Jack, Bruce, Steve, you're all going to be invited to our celebration party anyway, so feel free. Love you, HGTV.
Posted by Katydid – November 24, 2008 6:20 PM
I'd say, without a doubt, the photo was taken looking North across the landscaped center island of Patten Street and past the open lot opposite the Dream Home all the way out to the scenic hillside view.
There are three North facing windows on the second floor: from bedroom 2, and from its bathroom, or from the North facing window of the Master Bedroom Sitting area.
My best guess would be that it was taken from the window of Bedroom 2---but hey, don't push me out the emergency exit door at 10,000 feet if I'm wrong!
Posted by DBCoop – November 24, 2008 7:02 PM
Hi Gail: Thank you for answering some of my questions! I especiallty appreciate the fact that HGTV respects the upcoming new owner so much, that no one is allowed to stay in the DH2009! However, when I win this home, I promise you that I will have everyone (yourself, Jack Thomasson and Linda Woodrum) stay over at least one night...a celebration that Sonoma will long remember!!! And, thank you so much for the little tip about Della Santina's Trattoria Restaurant in Sonoma Square..I will most likely be seen there the next trip down to Santa Rosa to visit with my children & grandchildren! I appreciate the suggestion! I understand the meals are all prepared in the traditional Tuscan style using fresh Italian herbs and spices..PERFECT!
Now, the view from the window...my quess would be that it is taken from the north side, second floor above the dining room? I don't think it is from the Master Bedroom as I would think the Master Bedroom is looking out over the backyard? I think this view is beautiful as it depicts what Sonoma is all about...the mountains are georgeous and the skies are full of the cotton clouds I remember as a child!!
Thank you Gail! Our best wishes to you & your family for a truly blessed Thanksgiving! Marie Miller
Posted by Marie Miller – November 24, 2008 7:26 PM
I think Gail snapped the picture as she gazed out the window, while she sat in the tub that's in the Master Bathroom, while daydreaming..I wish it was mine..I wish it was mine...:)
Posted by velvet350 – November 24, 2008 8:24 PM
What a beautiful location. When do the sweepstakes sign ups begin? Perhaps the info is on this website & I've just overlooked it. Thanks for a reminder!
Posted by Cyndi – November 25, 2008 2:03 AM
WHEN CAN YOU START ENTERING THE 2009 DREAM HOME CONTEST?
Posted by DAN – November 25, 2008 7:47 AM
When can you start entering for the 2009 dream home contest? I'm really excited.
Posted by Tina – November 25, 2008 9:16 AM
Okay Gail...I've been doing more sluething & think I've got exactly where you were when you shot this photo...I think that you were on the Patton Side of the DH2009 (North) upstairs in probably what would be considered Bedroom No. 1 (above the Family Room/Den/Study). There is a guest bath there, but I would think you are in the bedroom since I believe the bathroom window is small. This would be the North side of the home. There are only two streets that pass DH2009...Patton Street & 5th Street, so this has to be Patton since there is a home across from the 5th Street side. I really do not believe you could be in the laundry room since that faces West & the Master Bedroom & bath face the backyard on the West side. Have I lost my mind? Love these teasers!! Marie Miller
Posted by Marie Miller – November 25, 2008 10:38 AM
I would like to enter the contest and be the next winner, just so I'll know that these things really do happen and are not something that looks good to make peoples mouth water. Like a new dish at a fancy resterant. I think the homes that are built are lovely. But I always wonder if the give away is for real. So I want to enter and maybe I'll find out for sure.
Posted by Camille A Gross – November 25, 2008 10:39 AM
Why didn't they put a bathtub on the main floor? That is inconvenient especially for older people or the disabled.
Posted by Jeanette – November 25, 2008 10:52 AM
I just wonder that you have already planned to designed a study room/home-office corner in 2009 Dream Home or not.I look forward to moving in there.
Posted by Biriz from Ohio – November 25, 2008 12:01 PM
Hi Gail,
You took the picture from the bedroom on the North west corner up stairs. I live in Napa, CA so I've seen the house the the surrounding areas. It's of the vacant lot across the street to the left as you are looking at the house. For a more direct view, you could have taken the photo from that bedroom's bathroom. It's a beautiful home and I have watched come to life. I can't wait to see the complete inside. Have you asked Bruce about where to put the elevator? I would really like to know. Thanks for the great job you're doing.
Posted by Jessica Turnipseed – November 25, 2008 12:07 PM
Hmmm, I'd said previously there are three North facing windows upstairs, but using my obviously imperfect sleuthing abilities, I now see there are actually four. The fourth is from the Master Bath tub, which has three windows, one facing North as well...but I don't think Gail climbed into the bathtub to take her photo, so I'll stick with my first guess, the Bedroom 2 window. Final answer? No, wait, I'd like to use one of my lifelines---can I call some of my fellow bloggers?
Posted by DBCoop – November 25, 2008 12:18 PM
We WANT THE TOUR!
Posted by Jenna Marvet – November 25, 2008 12:20 PM
I think you were in one of the kids rooms..Upper level.
Posted by Nicole In Tennessee – November 25, 2008 12:36 PM
Gail, I got to thinking about the "they don't try out the furniture deal" Are you kidding??? I would!!! Who doesn't like trying out a chair when they pass by it! And ok you know if you got to go potty and there is a working toilet in the house. That the workers nobody there would go outside to the construction site outhouse! (; I wouldn't care if they sit on the furniture, used the shower or not if I won! As long as they kept it clean, no stains! Heck they could even use the house for the weekend as long as they washed the sheets before leaving! Any way Happy Thanksgiving dreamers and thank you Hgtv and sponsors, workers for the chance to win these great homes. God bless you all!!
Posted by Carrie Miracle – November 25, 2008 1:05 PM
Sonoma is the most beautiful site yet for HGTV's Dream Home. I actually get butterflies looking at the house and pray that my family and I could live there. What a paradise! I love your blog and all the info that is given to us potential winners. Thanks, Gail.
Posted by Susan – November 25, 2008 1:24 PM
I was just wondering how the winner of the home was picked. It is truly amazing looking. I can imagine the face of the person that wins that beautiful house.
Posted by Matthew – November 25, 2008 3:46 PM
When can we start entering the contest?
Posted by Sandie – November 25, 2008 4:02 PM
Beautiful spot! I'm thinking it's from the side yard, slightly up a grade. Could be from the Master Bedroom though. I've been to Sonoma several times, all my family lives in the surrounding area. Boy or boy would I ever love getting back to California, especially when I win this gorgeous house!!
Posted by Carole Sorbello – November 25, 2008 4:09 PM
Gail you were in my kitchen or the Master's Bedroom.
Posted by Veronica – November 25, 2008 5:01 PM
What a gorgeous view! I cannot wait to see the views from the other rooms!
Posted by Isabella – November 25, 2008 6:34 PM
I am thinking...the master bedroom? Maybe a guest bedroom, that I can turn into a nursery when the time comes? =)
Posted by Isabella – November 25, 2008 6:37 PM
Thanks Gail for answering one of my many questions.Ha!
Your doing a great job and you look natural at it.
Now as for you comment about no one setting on the furniture I had a little problem with because I've been a fan for many years and I've seen all the TV commercials and the dream home TV event and the furniture has been sat on etc.I have tapes to prove it.
Posted by Linda – November 25, 2008 8:30 PM
This is going to be the best home ever! As soon as I saw it I thought cozy, comfortable and I wished it was mine. I can't wait until the contest starts!
Posted by Barbara – November 25, 2008 11:10 PM
Hi Gail:
I live in Sonoma County and would like to visit the house (at least just to drive by). How do I get the address?
Posted by Ann – November 26, 2008 12:33 AM
Its a nice view for sure.
Posted by Ed_B – November 26, 2008 12:59 AM
Gail, your probably in the bathroom upstairs of course. Just a another glimpse of the great development in which the house sits on. Can't wait for the contest to begin. WOW I've definetly fallen for this house, something about rural America especially in Northern California. Loved to be part of that community and raise my family and watch them raise theirs. GREAT JOB HGTV.
Posted by jeff sponcey – November 26, 2008 2:31 AM
When can we start entering to win the Sonoma dream home? It looks wonderful.
Posted by betsy – November 26, 2008 9:28 AM
I think it's the guest bathroom.... but, I would like to ask........ Why does it seem that the winners all have beautiful homes to begin with? It would be nice to see an "average" homeowner win such a dream........... Say an inner-city or a person with an income of 40,000 or so.????
Posted by Roberta – November 26, 2008 10:28 AM
Dear GAIL & EVERYONE AT HGTV LAND: Just a line to wish each and every one of you a "Happy THANKSIVING!" You bring so much happiness to all our homes every day with each and every program aired for our enjoyment!!! We have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving!! Marie Miller
Posted by Marie Miller – November 26, 2008 10:56 AM
Gail,
What a job!!! Lucky you.
It is a beautiful home in an excellent location.
I am looking forward for January 1st.
So far, I did not miss any of the dream home giveaway contest.
Hope this time I will win.
Posted by Shoshana – November 26, 2008 11:25 AM
I Love this house and all its been done to it, bur I aggre with Roberta, it would be nice if some one can will this beautifull home that is an average home owner or some one that lives in an apartment to win such a home. That would be wondeful, don't you think so?
Posted by Ana M – November 26, 2008 12:05 PM
I was typing and my little boy hit send we were trying to tell you if we won this would be the very first home we could say we own we have always rented
Posted by Heidi Lease – November 26, 2008 12:24 PM
All of your past homes are beautiful. I was thinking it would be nice to build two houses where most people could afford. They are all dream homes.
Posted by Richard Fish – November 26, 2008 12:24 PM
How is next year's home site chosen? We have a fantastic luxury net-zero energy home project for sale including land, blueprints, engineering and building permits that would be a great fit for HGTV. Do you know how we can pitch the idea for 2010?
Thanks,
Posted by Alison – November 26, 2008 1:21 PM
It's the view from the master bathroom
Posted by adefayobi – November 26, 2008 3:10 PM
My husband and I just recently went to Sonoma Valley for a wedding. We naturally fell in love with the area. I am excited for the contest to start. I will definately be entering this year. I could not imagine a more beautiful place (outside of every other dreamhome!) We visited the Ledson Winery as well and I am excited to see him as part of the project.
Posted by Heather – November 26, 2008 3:42 PM
Hi Gail, I honestly think your in the master bedroom but who knows,where ever your at it's looks really good
Posted by Liz – November 26, 2008 6:19 PM
Ah, such memories of Sonoma. I've always dreamed of going back. Would "HE", still be there?
Posted by Sashia – November 26, 2008 9:48 PM
I know I'm Going To Win....God will Let Me!!!!
Posted by Anonymous – November 26, 2008 9:57 PM
Wine country would be such a dream.My in-laws live near sonoma county.We live in Indiana and would love to be closer to my mother-n-law.How beautiful. Lora
Posted by LoraWagner – November 27, 2008 9:40 AM
How do I enter in this contest. I love the Sonoma Valley. This home is perfect for me. Where do I enter?
Posted by Carla Johnson – November 27, 2008 10:42 AM
hey! i was just wondering when we would be able to virtually tour the dream home for this year. it's normally thanksgiving i thought. thanks so much. :)
HANNAH
Posted by Hannah – November 27, 2008 5:39 PM
What are the rules for the sweepstake? I can't seem to find
them on the website.
Pat
Posted by Pat – November 27, 2008 6:10 PM
When are you going to show the tour of the dream home?
Posted by jade h – November 28, 2008 9:14 AM
Gail,
Great job on this home and location for 2009. I live in the desert and can only dream of such a wonderful location to live! The house is will be wonderful.
How do we register to win? I was able to locate the info. on previouse dreams homes, but nothing for this 2009's?
Happy Holidays
Tammy F.
Posted by Tammy F. – November 28, 2008 3:12 PM
WOW, sign me up!! when do we start to put our names in to be the lucky winners of such a beautiful home?
Posted by nita – November 28, 2008 7:42 PM
When are we going to get the virtual tour? I can't wait!
Posted by Mook – November 28, 2008 7:50 PM
Gail,
The view is breath taking I would think a deck off of a master bedroom where you could just sit and enjoy a glass of wine
Posted by Sheila – November 28, 2008 8:10 PM
Oh my gosh! It is like heaven, being in the wine country, My husband and I just went last year for our 25th Anniversary. What a treat, my girlfriend and I are going to be trying our best to get our foot in that beautiful door. Wow what a house, and what an area to explore. Good Luck everybody, may the best be blessed with such a wonderful place to live. I bet they will love to drink wine.
Posted by Mrs. Penny Radech – November 28, 2008 9:16 PM
Hi Gail,
This Dream Home looks gorgeous..It does sound like paradise! I can't wait to enter in January.
Where do you get the products that you furnish the home with? Just wondering!!!
Posted by Clare – November 28, 2008 11:27 PM
master bedroom most likley considering the look of the framed house on the home page. it really looks amazing!
Posted by greg – November 29, 2008 11:43 AM
The View is absolutely beautiful!! I can't wait to move in!!
Posted by TammyS – November 29, 2008 12:33 PM
This picture was probably taken from an upstairs bedroom. The view is stunning!! When can we start entering to win this beauty??
Posted by TammyS – November 29, 2008 12:36 PM
I have been searching everywhere on the computer to sign up for the HGTV 2009 Wine Country, Sonoma Sweepstakes. I cannot find it? Can you still enter?
Thank you,
Janet
Posted by janet lishman – November 29, 2008 2:29 PM
Idk where it was taken, most likely in the house though!
Posted by Anonymous – November 29, 2008 3:23 PM
when can we start entering the contest?
Posted by Michelle – November 29, 2008 3:58 PM
when will we be able to see pictures of the finished hgtv dream home???????????????????
Posted by Anonymous – November 29, 2008 6:43 PM
How is the weather in that part of California is it far from the major cities are the beaches close are far away. how many people live in this part of the state. What is the land size,how far is the wineries thank you
Posted by shinningstar – November 30, 2008 8:19 PM
I don't get it. You have been building these million dollar houses for years and not one of them has more than a two car garage! Who would design a house of that caliber and only make room for 1 car???
Posted by Jim DiVito – November 30, 2008 8:35 PM
Absolutely love this house!! My guess is from the clawtub of the master bedroom bathroom. But it's really only a guess. As a former northern California resident there isn't any place that doesn't have spectacular views. We left Calif about 14 years ago due to a job relocation and have dreamed about moving back. The pictures are on my refridge so I can "visualize" winning. (smile) Keep up the great work--can wait to see the finished decorated house.
Posted by char – November 30, 2008 9:29 PM
When will we be able to see the house furnished?
Posted by blahhh – November 30, 2008 10:01 PM
thinking positive ....the view is from my new master bedroom!
Posted by tom – November 30, 2008 10:19 PM
is there cash that go along with the 2009 dream home. thank you
Posted by gordon – November 30, 2008 11:39 PM
What direction does the house face the at the front door. I like Feng Shui. Please e-mail me the answer
Posted by Anonymous – December 1, 2008 6:25 AM
Does the house have a basement? I wasn't sure if that was a normal thing in Nor Cal.
Posted by Katie – December 1, 2008 9:54 AM
I don't care which room it's in . It's California ! I'd love to win just to be able to move Home,and Deam Home does nothing but nice!
Posted by Bob Rains – December 1, 2008 10:29 AM
When does the sweepstakes for Deam Home 2009 start?
Posted by Anonymous – December 1, 2008 11:41 AM
I love your dream homes. When can we start entering this contest? I see several others have posted this same question, but I do not see where this information is anywhere on the website? Please let us know! It's a beauty of a home in the loveliest of locations!
Penny
Posted by Penny Hicks – December 1, 2008 12:00 PM
How do I enter the Dream Home Sweepstakes?
Wendy Hancock
Posted by Wendy Hancock – December 1, 2008 1:23 PM
Where is the preview of the furnished house? Is it finished yet? Can't wait to see what Linda has done. She is great!!!
THIS COMMENT WAS REJECTED. REASON: TOO MANY COMMENTS SUBMITTED. THIS IS FIRST COMMENT I HAVE SUBMITTED???????
Posted by Marti – December 1, 2008 1:32 PM
Hi Gail,
I think this was taken from a bathroom on the second story. Gorgeous home!! You should see the scene taken out of my master bath.........heaven!! (Atlantic Ocean) but I'd take this one any day, too!!!
Weather is sooooo nice.........Maine is tooooo cold!!!
Posted by Pam Cates – December 1, 2008 3:11 PM
hey ladies.
Don't worry. Once I win the home I will invite all of you to come for a visit. Gee, maybe this is how I will be able to afford to keep it then. :)
GLTA, :)
Terri
Posted by Terri – December 1, 2008 5:22 PM
Gail, I think the pic was taken on the second level, perhaps the terrace or bathroom
Posted by katherine – December 2, 2008 6:33 AM
Is that a super highway in front of the house? I have been hunting for more pictures of the yard, neighbors, surroundings...not to be fussy, as I would love to return to live in California and had been focusing on Napa area. My intention is that this is my dream home now! tx
Posted by Karyn Hannigan – December 6, 2008 11:52 AM
I fell inlove with the floors and the inside of the house. What type of wood are the floors? Thanks
Posted by Polly – December 6, 2008 4:48 PM
Can dreams really come true? I know this one can
Posted by cyndi hyde – December 8, 2008 11:58 PM