Updating the house and a new 'pet'

After 15 years, we decided it was time to paint the interior of the house with coordinating colors. We hired our decorator friend to help us sort through the millions of colors out there and came up with a combination of three that are very pretty. Devon's idea on how to proceed: hire a company, stay in a hotel for two days and come home to a gorgeous finished project! Warren's idea on how to proceed? Take a look:

It's gonna take a bit longer than two days! I refuse to touch a paint brush, so it's all up to him. We are also replacing outdated appliances, lights and so forth as we work our way around the house. Here's our new dining room chandelier and kitchen nook light:

 It's difficult to see, but they are brushed nickel. The old ones were gold faux candle holders.

On another 'note', I did something I swore I'd never do...get my own piccolo! I will definitely be wearing earplugs to play it, but decided that it wasn't cool to be the only flute player in band NOT standing up to play the Stars and Stripes. So - introducing my piccolo, Little Pretty Pet:

 Can you find Warren in that picture? Look behind me...

My cool outfit is courtesy of a shopping trip with Cuz Helen, when she was up in our area. We had such a great time! She was trying on some fancy duds and we both thought this one was just right for me. I wore it to the Cocoon House auction last night. They managed to raise a whole lotta dough for the homeless teenagers who find refuge at Cocoon House. Unfortunately, we didn't have $5000 to buy the African Safari, nor did we win the raffle (like I did two years ago). But, we did our part and really enjoyed ourselves.

P.S. How many years do you think I have played the flute? Hints: Started in 5th grade; born in 1956...

TTFN