Monday, December 26, 2011

Dear Diary,

Yesterday, they were talking on the radio about dreams.  And how God wants to fulfil our dreams - because he's the one that places dreams within us.  They talked about the verse that says God will give you the desires of your heart, and how the desires of our heart are placed there by God.

I have to agree with that.  This all started with a dream that God placed in my heart, almost 1 year ago.  There been lots of up and downs along the way - but the desire / dream is still there.  Today the dream may take it's first major step.

We are trying to get a realistic idea of how much repairs and upgrades are going to cost on the house I believe to be The Scrap Inn.  The plan is to make an offer today.  For all to fall into place God is going to have to open doors, that some people would think impossible.  I believe they are possible, but only if God opens them.

Please pray that things go as they are suppose to.  That doors are opened and closed as God directs, and that we walk in obedience to Him.

Monday, December 19, 2011

Dear Diary,

The house met with Bob's approval.  We are going to pursue it - by getting some estimates done & then determining what to offer. 

This morning as I was praying about "The Scrap Inn"  I realized that it may take God moving some mountains for it to happen - but then I was reminded that if we have faith the size of a mustard seed we can move mountains.  And if this is The Scrap Inn - He will do just that.

Please continue to pray that God will lead and direct and give us wisdom and discernment as things progress.   

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Dear Diary,

Wow, it's been awhile since I've posted.  Mainly, because nothing has been happening.  The market for homes has kind of dried up - there just didn't seem to be anything out there, until Friday.

I looked at a home on Friday - I LOVE the location - the lot is the perfect size.  The house is 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths and is in pretty good shape. I think it would be the excellent Scrap Inn.  But as usual there are issues, which I won't go into.  But they are things that God will have to work out - if this is in deed The Scrap Inn.  I'm trying not to get too excited about the possibility - I hate disappointment. 

On Friday on my way to work I was reminded of God's timing - how it's ALWAYS perfect.  So my prayer continues to be that God will open and close doors as He sees fit.  That I won't run ahead of Him or lag behind.  And that I will rely on Him and His timing. 

Oh my God, He will not delay My refuge and strength always I will not fear, His promise is true My God will come through always, always Troubles surround me, chaos abounding My soul will rest in ... ...my God, He will not delay My refuge and strength always I will not fear, His promise is true My God will come through always, always I lift my eyes up, my help comes from ... http://www.klove.com/music/artists/kristian-stanfill/songs/always-lyrics.aspx  

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Dear Diary,

Sunday was quite an adventure.  My new friend Mary Beth and I did some real cross country trekking in our search for The Scrap Inn.  We found some very interesting houses - one of which was almost eerie!  It was way back in the sticks - to the point we had to honk the horn to get the chickens out of the road (path).  In it's day, the house was probably quite the place to be - but time and lack of attention has caused it to be in very bad repair.  We definitely created a Memory by checking it out.  I will have to say - Mary Beth is a very brave lady. 

Another of the houses was very cute - very old - very run down - and not at all suitable for The Scrap Inn.  Although it has some real charm.

I did find a house that I think would work great for The Scrap Inn - unfortunately, it doesn't look like a possibility at this time.  It is one that I'm planing to keep an eye on though.  Things could change.

The others we looked at were either not big enough, or were in bad repair.  So, the search continues.  Although I'm thinking this area is a possibility.  It's NOT north!!!!!!!!!!!!!

These are the times that make me wonder if I miss-heard the "You can do this" and it makes me want to give up.   It seems so hopeless.  But, these are also the times that I am reminded that I serve a mighty God - and that He will provide the right house at the right time and that I need to have faith to believe that and trust totally in Him.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Dear Diary,

Turns out the house below is NOT The Scrap Inn.  The reason I asked for opinions as to whether it was the Scrap Inn - is because it just wasn't what The Scrap Inn looks like in my mind.  When this house looked like it might be The Scrap Inn - I needed confirmation that others could picture it as The Scrap Inn - I wasn't totally seeing it!

I got a lot of emails - saying it looked nice - and then had other questions like - was there a bedroom downstairs, was there ample parking, was it nice inside, was it south, etc.  But my favorite email was from a dear friend - who stated it looked like a very nice house - but not at all what she pictured as The Scrap Inn.  That was kind of the response I expected to hear the most.

So, not just because it doesn't have The Scrap Inn look - but for many other reasons - I decided to move on and keep looking.  So, the hunt continues.

I'm holding on to my belief that God has perfect timing - he's never early and he's never late!  So, I'll continue to look and count on his perfect timing.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Dear Diary,

Does this look like The Scrap Inn?

I really want to know what you think.

Later,
Posted by Picasa

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Dear Diary,

No, I haven't given up.  There just doesn't seem to be anything out there right now.  I am watching and praying and being patient!

Hopefully, there will be some news soon!

Later,
Kathy

Monday, September 5, 2011

Dear Diary,

Last Monday I went to 3 houses.  Of the 3 one of them looked promising.  It was in good shape and move in ready.  It was about 60 miles from home - and traffic was horrible at one point.  The next issue was the zoning.  I spoke to the city and found out that I would have to apply for permission from the city council to be able to use the property for The Scrap Inn.  There was also a fee and the neighbors would all be polled... So, I felt like all these things together were a NO.

On Saturday, I went to three houses.  The first of which was a Great Location, Great Lot, Great price... That's where the Greats ended.  The house was in terrible shape - the owners had attempted to remodel - Should I say, some people should not be allowed to pick up a hammer!  The work was very shoddy, not complete, and obviously to cover up the fact that the house had shifted and the ceiling and walls had about a 1/2 inch gap between them.  They had also put in ceramic tile - which was like walking on ice.  Needless to say, we left without even looking at the rest of the house.

House # 2 was an adventure.  We ended up going the wrong place - per the realtor's GPS.  When we did find the place - on Lost Pines - it was something that should have stayed lost... It was very run down, and was literally in the woods - you actually had to walk a path to the house - dodging tree limbs and brush.  There was no parking and the house was Awful.  I decided just by looking in the window, that it was not worth going in.

House # 3 was in a very unatractive neighborhood.  The parking would have been an issue, there was a ditch almost completely around the property. Turns out no one was home, and the Realtor had not provided a key.   By the time my realtor got ahold of the listing agent - the very unfriendly looking dogs were barking in the window - so, there was no way I was going in there.

Once again, it wasn't a total loss.  I now have 2 more areas on my NO WAY list.  And so, the search continues.

Later,
Kathy

Monday, August 29, 2011

Dear Diary,

Off to see some houses today!  Maybe one of them is The Scrap Inn.

I'll keep you informed.

Later,
Kathy

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Dear Diary,

Had something interesting happen to me yesterday.  I was driving (or attempting to) down the highway - it was more like a parking lot when my phone rang.  The man on the other end said, "so what's this Scrap Inn".  I asked him if he was on the same highway.  He said, he was right behind me.  (I have The Scrap Inn signs on my vehicle).  I told him what it was, he thought it sounded like a great idea and wanted to know where it was.  I had to tell him, I don't know yet...  Turns out his wife is a scrapper!  So who knows - a traffic jam - may have lead to a future guest at The Scrap Inn.

I'm planning on looking at some houses on Monday AM.  Hopefully, one of them may be the ONE!  We will see.

Later,
Kathy

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Dear Diary,

I think I'm in the midst of a lesson on faith, trust and patience.  The search continues - but nothing promising out there right now. 

I did look at a few properties last week - but they just weren't IT!

Patience is a virtue - Right?

Hope to have some news soon!

Later,
Kathy

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Dear Diary,

Still looking for "The Scrap Inn".  I know it's out there - just haven't found it yet.  Keep watching and waiting with me!  I'll let you know how the search progresses.

Later,
Kathy

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Dear Diary,

Went house hunting today...

The first house we looked at had a room that would work for scrapping - but it is actually a sun porch - and it has no AC or heat - NOT an option here in Texas.  The other rooms were fine - but the house was very chopped up into multiple small rooms.  The area was okay - but not really what I am looking for.

House 2 - by the time we got close - we had already determined it was not the area for The Scrap Inn.  It was in the country - and quite isolated.  We decided it would be a waste of time to look at it at that point.  Sooooo on to house number 3.

I loved the house - it was built in the early 1900s - lots of charm and spacious rooms - tons of storage space - but not practical for The Scrap Inn.  One of the bedrooms was long and narrow.  It was barely wide enough for single beds - and would only have held 2.  The master bed rooms was a decent size.  The third bedroom was upstairs in what I'd call an "Attic" room.  It had the slanted ceilings and would have been very fun to decorate - BUT the bathroom did not have a shower - and because of the slanted ceilings it would not have been an option.  There were several LARGE rooms or combination rooms that would be great for the scrap room - but there were several rooms that would have been just wasted space - not that they couldn't have been decorated cutely - but heating and cooling unused space is kind of silly.  One of the larger rooms could have been converted into another bedroom - but not without a lot of work - and manipulation... Add to all this that it was in need of a new roof and the age of the house - it was added to our NO list! :(
The last house - was cute from the outside - and really nicely remodeled - had a room that would be great for the scraproom - beautiful wood flooring - new carpet paint, remodeled bathrooms and kitchen - just one catch...It had obvious foundation issues... not something you want to mess with in Texas.

Soooo, in many ways it was kind of a disappointing day - but yet once again we feel we gained a lot of knowledge that will assist in the future hunt.  The Realtor was very helpful and assured me that there is that special place "out there" and that he will continue to look!  

I continue to believe (with a reminder from my hubby) - that if this is God's will - He will make away - and will lead us to the right place at the right time... To some this may sound like foolishness - to those of us who know HIM - it's called faith.  

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Dear Diary,

Well, the house hunt is back on!  I've been in touch with several realtors - and tonight we took a field trip just to check a place out on our own.  Never did find it - it was very last minute and we were totally unprepared.  We did find 3 of the 6 that were on our list - 1 of which is a NO.  The other 2 are possiblilities - and who knows about the other 3.  It was a fun trip & we really like the town! 

Hope to look at these and a few other possibilities soon!

I know The Scrap Inn is out there! 

Check in to the post below - I'd love to know your here and how you found me!

Later,
Kathy

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Dear Diary.

Back from a wonderful vacation!  Now gotta get serious about finding a property!

CHECK IN!

Just wondering who's out there - and how you got here!

Please take the time to leave a comment!

Later,
Kathy 

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Dear Diary,

The hunt has begun anew!

I decided I better start over as far as getting information on the properties on my "possibilities" list.  I sent 11 emails - asking about 12 properties, and asked for each of the realtors to let me know if they had anything else that might work in their area.  So, hopefully things will start picking up again.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Dear Diary,

Seems like everything has come to a standstill lately.  I have not been able to get much  help.  I have about 30 properties that I'm waiting on a response for.  I may just have to go back to contacting the listing agents myself. 


I am going to another Scrap Retreat next week - and hope to be able to go by and check out 2 on my way - so that might atleast be helpful. 

Thanks for your continued interest.  I haven't given up - just moving pretty slow right now!

Later,
Kathy

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Dear Diary,

The search continues!  I have decided not to pursue this property.  I spoke with the city today.  It seems it was going to be a long (5 to 6 weeks (it's already been 3) process - along with a $250 fee to determine if they would rezone the house so it could be used for the Scrap Inn.  I feel this is another closed door.  I did find out that in order to not have to go through this process - we have to have a property in a commercial zone - I've asked the realtor to look for properties zoned commercial that fit my needs - but am not very hopeful there is anything in that town.  So we're moving on.  

The adventure continues!

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Dear Diary,

Still waiting to hear from the city council, they need more paperwork, and a fee paid before I can get an answer.  I'm now waiting to see if the fee is a requirement, and needs to be paid before I can get a yes, regarding the use of the property.  If so, I know the search continues!  I am not convinced that this IS the ONE - so, I'm not willing to make a monetary commitment.  Hopefully, I should get a response on Monday to my request for more information regarding the fee.  This could be another closed door or maybe just another bump in the journey.   Either way, I know God has the Place already picked out, He knows where it is and in His time He will reveal it to me.  Just as I know that it was Him who said "You can do this", I know He is faithful and will provide the perfect place at the perfect time.

I did have a very productive day yesterday.  I attended the Great American Scrapbook convention.  I was able to meet 4 other "inn keepers" from Texas.  They were "Texas Friendly" and were very helpful in regard to answering some of my questions and offering me future help & support.  Their willingness to share with me was amazing, and they were a great source of information, that only someone who has "been there, done that" could know.  Much more important than the valuable source of information, they became friends. 

Thanks fellow inn keepers, you rock! 

Please send me an email if you would like to be added to my email newsletter, or if you'd like to know how you can receive a discount on "Your Scrappin' Getaway" at The Scrap Inn.

Later,
Kathy

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Dear Diary,

I've been waiting very patiently all weekend to hear from the city council... Not sure how patient I will be once Monday comes.  I'm trying not to get ahead of the game - and making too many plans for this house.  I know that if this isn't the one - that the one that IS will be ever better.  That helps me to keep things in perspective.


Went garage saleing yesterday and got a few more treasures for The Scrap Inn.  I was able to get 3 oak dining room chairs.  I'm not sure if they will end up in the dinning room or the kitchen - but either place they will need new seat covers.  Most the other things I bought were for the kitchen, a mixing bowl, a baking dish that will be perfect for my hot bacon, spinach cheese dip, a 9 x 9 glass baking pan, a few Nick knacks for the mantel, a wicker mirror and 2 wicker framed pictures for the Shabby Chic bedroom, a coffee mug, some insulated mugs with lids, cloth napkins, a Welcome sign, a hand made wall hanging that says "enter as st ranges, leave as friends", an antique juicer, a sign that says "it doesn't get much better than this RELAX (for the lounge), lots of covered glass jars - for snacks or embellishments.  I think that's about it. 

I also, added to the sidebar - information on how to be added to my newsletter e-mail list.  If you'd like to be included - just send an email to scrappinpsycho@msn.com with a request to be added to the newsletter list.

Later,
Kathy

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Dear Diary,

I think I may have found the place... I know you've heard that before.

I found a house that seems almost perfect for The Scrap Inn.  I have to write a letter to the city council to get permission to use the house for The Scrap Inn.  I'm working on putting that together - or should I say, I'm procrastinating about writing the letter.  I know that if it's the right place all the details will fall into place.  Here is a picture of the scrap room minus the carpet.  Its a great size!

Posted by Picasa When I looked at it - I was excited about the size of this room for the scrapbook room - it's in the center of the house - has great outdoor lighting and did I mention lots of room.  My plan would be to remove the carpet and have a stained concrete floor.  There are also lots of outlets around the room - and the bookcase is removable (not sure if I will move it or not). It also has recessed lighting - which may need to be changed to tracked lighting - hard to tell in the day time.

It has 3 bedrooms & 2.5 baths, a dinning room, eat in kitchen area (with a chandelier ?), a laundry room, 2 car garage, nice yard - nice area, & ample parking.

Now for the almost part - I had wanted a "lounge area".  A small area where you can get away from the scraproom & relax & read a book, or watch TV or a movie.  There really isn't a room that would work for that.  I was thinking the laundry room - it is a good sized room with a window - but realized it has cabinets on 2 of the walls - and a sink with a cabinet.  Not real conducive to a cozy little area to escape to - so now the issue is:  am I willing to give that part of my dream up - or is there a way to make it work.  How important is it?

So the question of the week is:  How important is it to have a lounge area?    

Monday, May 16, 2011

Dear Diary,

Seems like things have slowed down - but I am pressing on.  I've made a few contacts that I hope will result in future guests, and made some more purchases - little things.

Tomorrow we have an appointment to see some more houses in a new area! 

Will update the results.

Later,
Kathy

Monday, May 9, 2011

Dear Diary,

Picked up a few things for The Scrap Inn at Garage Sales on Saturday. Maybe I can posts some pictures later. 


Sent some emails to listing agents in another small town.  Waiting for replies. 


Need to make some opportunities to get some business cards "out there"


Later,
Kathy

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Dear Diary,

No, this isn't a picture of me crying - although I wanted to!
Posted by PicasaOnce again a Big NO!  We went as a family to see the house (below).  We no more than walked in the door and my husband was already having issues with his alergies.  At first my response was, "but your not going to spend any time here".  Once he did a quick walk through and had to leave - for fresh air - I realized this was an issue.  Many of my friends - fellow scrappers, and most the people who live in Texas have alergy issues.  I realized that all I needed was for one guest to have alergy issues during a weekend (brought on by the cedar - and mustyness of the house) and I would loose a future guest - and any of her friends who happen to have alergies.  So, I thank God for my husband's alergies - I would have never even thought of this as being an issue.   

On the way to work this AM, I was thinking (worrying) about different aspects of The Scrap Inn.  I was listening to K-Love when the DJ started talking about Trusting God to do what He wants in His timing - and how we can trust Him to take care of all the details.  My verse for the day was:

Surly the Lord is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid.  The Lord, the Lord is my strength and my Song.  He has become my salvation.  Isaiah 12:2

Hmmm!  Could God be reminding me to trust in HIM knowing that this was his idea in the first place!  Hmmm!  Once again, He closed a door - and He will direct me to the next one to go through!

Monday, May 2, 2011

Dear Diary,

So here is the house I saw today! Seems like a possibility. Next step is my husband seeing it. Hopefully that will happen on Wednesday. Don't want to say much else about it - until he's seen it. So, stay tuned and I'll update you as things happen.

Posted by PicasaIt's kind of Hansel & Gretalish!

What do you think?

Later,
Kathy

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Dear Diary,

I just went to check out a couple properties by myself.  One, is a new listing - but seems too small, the other was a sign I saw on my way back to town on Friday.  It was a definate NO. 

I'm going to see something tomorrow - that sounds promising.  We'll see.

Didn't do much networking yesterday - I need to be a little more "out there".  I need to work on that.

More after I see the property tomorrow.

Later,
Kathy

Friday, April 29, 2011

Dear Diary,

Another one to scratch from my list.  This was one I've been wanting to see for a while.  But was having a hard time getting someone willing to take me to see it.

Posted by PicasaOnce again, there was the neighborhood issue - although not as bad.  But I could hear Bob saying "No" as I drove into the neighborhood.  The spiral staircase - was very "appealing" but not at all practical - or for that matter, barely usable.  As I walked up them, I commented to the realtor, that had I not just lost 50 pounds, I don't think I'd have been able to fit.  The stairs were very narrow - barely shoulder width - and the only access to the upstairs.  Carrying a suitcase up the stairs would be almost impossible - but even more than that - I don't have a clue how the furniture would get up there.... Other than that, the house was too small - and the "game room" was way too small for the Scraproom!  

The drive was exactly 30 miles from work - and took 50 minutes - so, I did decide that was not too far - and maybe 50 or 60 miles would be doable!  

I've gotten a lot of response from the Realtors I contacted - and feel like I am finally able to make some progress.  Even if it's just deleting properties from my list - and being more aware of what I'm needing and wanting.

So, the search continues.  I've got another property scheduled to see.  I'll keep you posted.

Tomorrow I am going to an all day crop with my friend.  (So why am I not planning pages & packing?).  I'm hoping to be able to do some networking while I'm there.  I hope to have the opportunity to hand out some of my business cards to the other scrappers.  We'll see!

I'm still wanting more opinions as to whether you would be comfortable knowing there was a prison within 5 miles of the inn?  What do you think?

Later,
Kathy 

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Dear Diary,

I promised an update on the property search - so here it is.  Hubby, Niko and I went and viewed 3 properties this evening.  The first one was a definate NO! 

House #1
 There was no Scrap Room space.  Although, it was an interesting house & Niko loved the 4 (or more) dogs.  Not at all what I was looking for. 

The second one (sorry no picture) - had possibilities - but would need a lot of updating.  The layout was fine and the Scrap Room would be ample space - although lighting would need to be added.  But the fact that it was within a mile of a federal prison and had several run down properties around it - made it a NO also. 

House #3
The third was a great house - move in ready - great layout for The Scrap Inn - but it was on a dirt road surrounded by run down trailer homes - the two closest ones looked like they had been abandoned.  Soooooo, no Scrap Inn yet - but a few more to take off the list of possibilities.  

I have gotten several phone calls and email responses from the emails I sent last night - but am too tired to deal with them tonight.  So the search continues!

New question:  Would the presence of a prison within 5 miles of a retreat deter you from staying there? 

Thanks for your comments!

Later,
Kathy 

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Dear Diary,

The search for property continues - who would have thought it would be soooo difficult.  I am now at the point where I am sending emails directly to the listing agent - hopefully, they will be able to answer the question as to whether or not the property has restrictions that would keep it from being able to be used, and whether it actually fits all the required criteria.  I sent 14 emails tonight.  Now, it's a matter of waiting for a response. 

I'm trying to not buy anything for The Scrap Inn - unless it's a deal I can't pass up.  Mainly because I'm running out of space to store it all.  I did find some great "trash buckets" for the tables.  They were on Easter clearance at Target.  They are not the small ones from the Dollar Spot - but actually a larger one decorated with flowers.

I'm hoping to go see some houses tomorrow.  My realtor sent me an email suggesting tonight or tomorrow night.  I didn't get it until after 8:00 - so  hopefully we will be able to go tomorrow. 

I'll keep you updated as things progress!

Later,
Kathy

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Dear Diary,

Way too long since I've updated.  Mainly, because there isn't a lot happening right now.  The house search continues.  I've had another disappointment - but know it was God closing a door - that I'm sure I was not suppose to go through. 

On Monday during my prayer time, I got real honest with God, about my frustrations and doubts, and questioning Him as to whether I really could do this.  I feel like I've gone to far to turn back now - I've made some commitments and I don't want to just quit.  I asked God to please assure me that I was right about Him telling me "you can do this".  I asked Him to help me to trust in Him and not in myself - or the circumstances I see as barriers.  He gave me the following Bible verse:

If the Lord delights in a man's way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumbles, he will not fall, the for Lord upholds him with his hand.  Psalm 37: 23-24

I believe this is a confirmation from the Lord - that He will make my steps firm - that He will keep me from falling - that He will uphold me with His hand.  So why should I doubt?

I'm hoping to be able to check out a couple houses this week - it may be rather difficult with it being Easter weekend.  But, we shall see.

Later,
Kathy

 

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Dear Diary,

I've been missing in action for awhile.  But for good reason.  Isaac Judsen was born March 31st.  He is quite the little guy.  He ended up being a C section - which meant Meme was needed longer than had been expected.

So now, to catch up with what's happening regarding The Scrap Inn. 

My business cards arrived - now I need to start passing them out.  They look very nice.  I hope they will generate not only interest in The Scrap Inn - but will be placed in the hands of future guests. 

I had become very discouraged in the property search - it is not going at all how I expected.  I have had a hard time getting answers from those who are supposedly finding me the property.  Not quite sure what the problem is with that.  Then there are some other issues that I can't discuss here - that have come up.  Sunday night - Bob and I came up with the perfect plan.  Only to realize about an hour later that it would not work.  So, needless to say I was becoming very discouraged.

While feeling discouraged I had to remind myself, that I need to put my trust in God - and not become discouraged by circumstances.  I reminded myself that if this is God's plan (which I believe it is) - it will work out - just the way it's suppose to in His timing.  Bob and I began discussing other options - which led me to look on Craig's list for a house.  (I hardly ever go on Craig's list).  Anyway, tonight I called about a house on Craig's List.  It sounds perfect - the price is right - the location is good - and this may be a better option regarding financing.  The house is still occupied by the owners - and it may be a while before they are actually ready to sell - so now it's a waiting game.  I can't go into all the details - but it looks very promising.  My prayer is that God will open the doors He wants us to go through - and that I will be patient and allow things to happen in His timing.  I'm reminded of the verse - God has a plan for me - a plan to prosper me and not to harm me. He's in control. 

Saturday, March 26, 2011

Dear Diary,

Funny how things work - I decided I needed to get my pre-business cards designed. This is the result. It's funny - I was thinking I need a theme color combo - kinda like FedEx - or UPS. Hot pink and lime green are two of my favorite colors together - plus the whole theme of the card goes perfectly with the Scrappinpsycho's Asylum.


The idea of this card - will be to hand them out now - in order to promote The Scrap Inn - even before it's open. I plan to hand these out to everyone I see in the scrapbook aisles of Hobby Lobby, JoAnn's & Michaels.  Or, I guess I should say - to anyone who will take one.  This will at least give them a way to contact me - and to keep up with the progression of The Scrap Inn!

How do you like my card and my idea?
Posted by Picasa

Dear Diary,

Another pretty unproductive week.  We did look at a house on Sunday (through the windows).  The parking would be excellent - but there are just too many other things to compromise on.  One being - the scrap space.  I thought about using 2 rooms - separated only by one wall - but with the help of those who gave their opinion - here and at TwoPeas - I don't think that is an option.  So the house hunt continues. 

I did a little shopping this week - got a few goodies at Garage Sales on Saturday:
Bose sound system
Large White board (still in the wrapper)
a Shower curtain and hooks

That's all I can think of right now.  I also, got several things at Goodwill - I'll add later.

Question of the week (or until I change it) - How far is too far - to drive to a retreat?

Later,
Kathy

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Dear Diary,

Wow, what a crazy busy week.  Despite the fact that I had the little corndog to take care of all week - I was still able to work 40 hours, see Gnomeo & Juliet, go to the zoo, play mini golf, go to the park, and of course some shopping for The Scrap Inn.  I'll catch you up on the latest purchases later.

Today we (hubby, corndog & I) went to a small town close by that had a house that looked like it might be a possibility.  The town was ok - not too far - and not a bad drive.  We were able to look at the house through most of the windows.  The parking was perfect - the house looks like it's in great shape - but it was difficult to determine if the rooms would work for scrapping.  My realtor is checking on the zoning - and then we'll go from there.

Question of the week:

Is it important to have all the scrappers in 1 room - or would it be okay to split the group up between 2 rooms?

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

What do you Want in A Scrpbook Retreat?

Please answer this question below!

Dear Diary,

Everything is kind of on hold here.  It's Spring Break - and with my little Corn Dog out of school - life is a little too busy to be doing much on The Scrap Inn.  Next week I hope to be able to get back into the house hunt. 

I'm also planning on making some business cards.  They will say:

 "Coming Soon to a town near you -
The Scrap Inn LLC ~
       Your Scrappin' Getaway!"

Then I'll have this blog address
my email address 
my phone #. 

I'll hand these out to "scrappers" whenever I get the chance in the scrapbook aisle of the local stores, at crops etc.  Once I have an address then I'll have permanent cards made and use them in the same way. 

I also plan to allow those who want to to put their name on the back of the business card - and hand them out.  If someone books a stay at The Scrap Inn from their referral (their name on the back) the referrer will receive a discount on their next stay at The Scrap Inn.

What do you think?  Do you think this is a good marketing plan? 

Saturday, March 12, 2011

Dear Diary,

It's official - The Scrap Inn LLC is a reality.  I am now registered with the state and am an official business.

I've been playing around with a slogan- The Scrap Inn
Your Scrappin Getaway!

What do you think?

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Dear Diary,

I'm so excited - sometime tomorrow I will officially be a business owner!  By the way - if you get a chance to talk to Bob - ask him about his other business women in his life!

Much more later!

Monday, March 7, 2011

Dear Diary,

So, lots has happened since my last update.  I'll try not to go into too much detail.

On Saturday I found the house I wanted - I was excited about it - and loved the location etc.  The problem was - it was a lot more than I wanted to pay - and was smaller than what I wanted.  I spoke to my hubby on the phone - and he wasn't as thrilled with it as I was (he's always the more practical one).  I have been praying that We will be on a united front - and it wasn't going that way.  So of course, my prayers were for God to change his mind - help him to be more open minded etc...  We'll by Sunday morning, my mind was changing - I started questioning myself - as to why I would pray for opened & closed doors and yet not see this as a closed door - I started realizing some other attitude changes that I needed to make.  I came to the conclusion that this wasn't the house for me.  When I told my hubby - he was still willing to go and look at it - although I pretty much felt the door was closed on this one - we decided to go look at it together.  He found several issues with the construction - that we're obvious issues.  Then there was the concern for the energy efficiency - it was obvious there was going to be an issue due to the number and kind of windows.  After looking at the house more closely - and seeing past the "cosmetics" we were both convinced it was not the house for us.  After a visit to the property neighbor it was even clearer!  Turns out the property had been bought cheaply due to the fact that it had major water damage - it was bought to flip.  We had seen many indications of things being covered up with paint that should have been repaired.  So, this just made it even more clear that this was not the property for us.

Later, I realized that God had made us united - just not in the way I expected Him to do it. Isn't it interesting how we sometimes think we know just how God should answer our prayers.  This was just a reminder to me - that if I want God to lead in this - I need to be willing to follow in HIS direction. 

We also decided we still have a lot of questions regarding the legal aspect of having a business, getting the right kind of loan for the business etc... So, I have made an appointment to meet with an attorney later this week.  Hopefully, that will answer some of our questions - and get us going in the right direction. 

Please continue to keep this in your prayers!

Later,
Kathy

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Dear Diary,

The house hunt went well today - but I'm not ready to share it yet!  Please pray that God will open and close the doors He wants us to go through, and that we (my husband & I) will be united in any decisions we make.

I will share that I purchased this today!
I wasn't sure if tools were a drawing point for The Scrap Inn or not - my friend said it was a MUST.  What do you think?

Dear Diary,

Off house hunting again today.  Very excited to see what's out there. 

Found out that the houses I looked at on Wednesday - can be used as an Inn as far as zoning is concerned.  That was great news.  Also, decided that the house with the steps was NOT an option. 

Tried figuring out how much SCRAP space is needed per person - I'm really wanting to have 6 foot tables per person - not sure how realistic that is.  But I'm taking my tape measure today - that will give a better feel for the scraproom posibilities.

I'll report in later with the house hunt results.

How much space do you think is needed per person? 

Later,
Kathy

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Dear Diary,

These are the houses I looked at today.  I have put a caption on each picture with my opinion. They are all in a small town about 25 miles from my home - the town is a county seat and has lots of large old homes,  old buildings and they are known for their
Bar-B-Que.  It's a very quaint little down town with a town square and the Court house in the center.  It has lots of cute little shops - and lots of character.  Definitely a maybe as far as the town is concerned.



I like the character of this one - but.. It has 2 steps going into or out of every room.  I think this would be an issue for those with mobility issues.  It also would take a lot of time and $ to get it in shape including tearing out the carpet and sanding the oak wood flooring that has been covered for years!  The wallpaper in the kitchen and dinning room will have to be tore out and the kitchen flooring replaced and the kitchen and all 3 bathrooms would have to be updated.  The house was built in the 30's and I think all the upgrades were done in the 50s!  I don't think this is the one.
Loved the spaciousness of this one - great scrapbook space, dining area and breakfast area, 4 bedrooms, single story & the price are all pluses.   The negatives are the limited parking - smaller yard, and no "character". 
Loved the location of this one - 5 acres in the country. BUT
the floor plan was not at all suitable for scrapbooking.  I thought maybe the three car over sized garage might be a possibility -
but  decided it would be very expensive to finish it off & add heat & AC.  It's a no go!

The plan is to go to another town this weekend - and just keep looking!

What do you think?  Are the steps an issue?  How important is the "character" of the house?  What do you think about the small town atmosphere!
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Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Dear Diary,

Tomorrow is the big day.  I have an appointment with the realtor tomorrow morning at 10:00.  I'm really looking forward to seeing what's out there!

I'm planning on taking my camera - so I can take pictures and have something to remember about each house.

Tonight I hit Goodwill.  I found a Fiesta pitcher ($2.99) for me!  And picked up some more "Fiesta Like" dishes for The Scrap Inn.  I found this awesome set of mixing bowls.  6 bowls of graduated sizes - They had them each priced separate - starting at 1.99 for the smallest - to 6.99 for the largest.  I took them to the counter, hoping they would agree with me that they should not be priced individually - but as a set.  Unfortunately they didn't agree.  I have plenty of mixing bowls anyway!

Off to bed!
Later,
Kathy

Monday, February 28, 2011

Dear Diary,

Nothing new done today.  Although I do need to figure out what houses I really want to look at - the realtor - doesn't think we can make 9 houses and 162 miles in one day!  So I had to narrow it down to either south or east! 

I think we're going to go south.

I need to get back at the history - but have wasted enough time on the computer for tonight!

Anyone know how to post to the bottom of the blog instead of the top?

Dear Diary,

I've decided it would be interesting (at least for me) to record the progression of "The Scrap Inn" from conception (in my mind) to completion and beyond.  I'm sharing this here with you, because I hope at some future time, you will be able to come and be a guest at "The Scrap Inn". 
It all began on January 13, 2011.  I was enjoying our annual winter retreat at my favorite scrapbook retreat.  I remember the last thing I though before I went to bed (early that morning), was I wonder how much 12 bedspreads would cost.  I did the math in my head and fell asleep (random ?).  The next morning when I woke up - as I went to get out of bed I literally heard a voice in my head "you could do this".  I instantly knew what "this" was, and my mind went on a field trip of ideas.  Later, as the other ladies came down to breakfast - I shared with each of them, my epiphany.  Each lady agreed that I could and should do "this".  Soooo, the rest of the weekend I tossed out different ideas I had regarding MY Scrapbook Retreat. 

Although, I really was convinced that God had put the idea in my mind in the first place, I still knew it would not be something I could do without my husband's support.  So, I began praying that if this idea was of God (as I felt it was) - that He would further show me, by my husband's reaction.

When I got home on Sunday night - I told Bob that I had something to tell him, but I wasn't sure it was a good time.  He asked me to tell him.  I told him my idea - and how I felt it was from God.  I knew his first reaction would probably be - "are you crazy" - but instead he said, I think that's a great idea.  So now I was even more convinced this was of God.

Now what?

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Dear Diary,

So far I have bought:
  • a few dishes - decided I'm going to go with the Fiesta (look) and will have all colors.  This will make it easy (I hope) to find - and will mean that I can easily replace them if they get broken.
  • clear drinking glasses - great clearance sale at Target
  • 18 dish towels - another great clearance sale at Target
  • 8 fluffy bath towels - ditto on Target
  • a cute welcome sign - Valentine clearance at JoAnns
  • several different coffee mugs - once again - not going for the all the same - this will make it easier for ladies to keep up with which cup is theirs. GW
  • a metal collendar - GW
I'm trying to hold off on a lot of the stuff until I better know where and what the property will be.


Last Night I:
bought 5 6 foot tables from Target.  They were on sale and I didn't want to miss the deal.  I have 90 days to decide if they are what I want and if they are going to work.


Today I:


Reviewed the 9 houses to see on Wednesday.  The realtor will be checking for any restrictions on the properties and see if they are likely to work. 


And of course started the Diary of The Scrap Inn blog.


Niko plans to make smoothies for the guests!  He thinks that should be part of the advertising - he also suggested I may want to get bumper stickers for the ladies to put on their cars!!!!!  Hmmm!  Maybe he has something there!


I plan to go back and add more of the history - but don't want to loose track of the here and now.  So this will probably jump around a lot, at least until I get the previous information captured.


Later,
Kathy

Dear Diary,

The search for property began on line - I saved over 100 houses, I thought might work.  Then I began looking into the laws regarding starting a business.  I still have a lot of questions and hope to be able to get some guidance once I've got a better idea of where The Scrap Inn will be.

Oh yeah - the name - I thought of it the next Saturday while watching Niko play soccer.  I couldn't wait to bounce it off of other people.  At first I was thinking the Scrap Inn - but then decided it need the "THE" so it wouldn't sound like a verb.  I would have loved to use something to do with "scrappinpsycho - or the asylum"  but - didn't think that would be too appealing to some people.  So The Scrap Inn it is.  What do you think of the name?