So...

We didn't buy the house on Yuletide Street.  The numbers just didn't stack up.  Whilst I'm a bit bummed it did force us to look at our options and it was a great opportunity to look at what we already have and remember all the reasons why I love my house:
Great (yet sometimes colourful) neighbourhood
Close to school and the shops
Big block with landscaped yard
And a little but well loved house that we have poured our heart and soul into.

So...we have an architect coming next week to talk extensions! I'm thinking upstairs, Parents Retreat, then turning our existing master bedroom into a family room for the boys. I have homework this weekend that involves getting my priority list sorted and looking at internal stairs and juliet balconies and so forth. Best homework assignment ever. I'll keep you posted.  Oh, and the pool will be included in the master plan.  If we're going to take the roof off our house and build up then Andrew will barely notice the hole being dug in the ground.

Here is a glimpse into my inspiration:

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

I want built in cabinetry in my dressing room/wardrobe and...

Fun pendant lighting!

I'm really liking this photo from Penny Farthing Design House.

It reminds me of LA. 

I could easily find a home for Frank the Flamingo...also from Penny Farthing.

Frank could be strategically placed at the top of the stairs. 

He's fancy!

It's only taken me 2 hours to get this post written.  I've managed to change nappies, make various forms of breakfasts foods, let 2 cups of tea go cold but here it is.  It's crude, perhaps a little rushed but now that I have downloaded the contents of my brain I can get on with the washing and prepping for the afternoon tea we're having here for my family this arv.  It's all happening in downtown Holland Park!!