Dekeoboe, Thanks for posting those images within the thread. For the stools, we'll probably change the 8 stools as shown to 5 stools (one on end and two on each side) since we have 5 in our family. Lafdr, Thank you for the many comments. Our lot is 2 acres, but we probably only have about 1.2 buildable acres because of the pond and woods. Also, the lot is much deeper than it is wide so we don't have a ton of width to the lot but I appreciate the thoughts about getting more windows/natural light (which is important to us). Think we'll go ahead with the Jack N Jill bathroom. I'm guessing that the doors won't be locked much. For the stairway, we're picturing an open staircase something like this: [[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/nemo-contemporary-staircase-orlando-phvw-vp~3745201) [Modern Staircase[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/modern-staircase-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_745~s_2105) by Winter Park Home Media Design & Installation Storch Entertainment Systems So we wouldn't be able to locate the coat closet under the stairs if we opt for something like that. Still not sure on what we want to do for the sitting room. Would you remove the walls and just have a wider bedroom? We're still debating the advantages and disadvantages of the sunken room. We think it will look cool, make it easy to transition from tile in the foyer/kitchen to hardwood in the great room, and give us another 14" in ceiling height in the great room, but we understand the safety issues and some of the functionality issues that could arise. bpathome, We appreciate all comments that improve the functionality of our home. We will flip the pantry. pixie, We'll make the changes to the kids closets. Good ideas for other possibilities for that 6x8 extra space in the one bedroom. I'll discuss with my wife. You're right - we may want to add a door to the closet. I'd like to shorten the closet a little but don't know how with the current layout because we want to maintain a wall for the covered patio. Excellent idea for changing the mudroom door to enter into the hallway across from the pantry. That will give us access to the mudroom if we enter the other garage door also. My wife loves that idea and is now asking why I ever drew it the other way :). Switching to 5 stools should solve the issues with space in the island right? Yes, that circle is a fire pit. Against code to have fire pit under an enclosure? Bummer. Scrapbook and kirkhall, Thanks for the notes about the pocket door. We'll be moving that doorway to open across from the pantry. Thanks all and please keep the comments coming!

I am a beginning scapper so sign me up! It'll be a great excuse (ahem- I mean opportunity) for me to go to the stores and check out the supplies that are available, too. Might I suggest you send the swapping partners the email as well as snailmail address so we who haven't purchased our things can find out what the other is interested in receiving? That might make it more beneficial and fun for both parties! Let me know the details. I'm looking forward to this! -Sarah

Amy, Not quite sure what you mean by this question. You don't have to pay ANYONE on this site for information on how to make or get started in scrapbooking, and if someone is suggesting you do please notify me immediately, as this is a free user site. Also this site doesn't sell supplies, and no one is supposed to use this site to sell their items to you, so you don't have to pay anyone here anything. If you want to start scrapping you have to buy your supplies yourself, at which ever store you normally shop at, or the closest scrapbook store to you, and if you are worried about the cost you can start small and get a few supplies at a time. HTH Love Penny

I have the American Greetings Scrapbooks & More program. It comes with sooo many fonts, I had to print a sample letter from each one and hang it up so I can see them all and remember all the choices!! You can make cards and all sorts of stuff. Printer ink itself is a safe choice for scrapbooks--lots of debate on it in the past--just make sure when you print, that you use your acid-free paper and then it should be fine. I've had the program for over a year and still haven't used all the stuff!! Have fun...