[ceejay]

Yes...we do love the birdcage! It opens up the whole lanai...just can't wait for the weather to get a little warmer so we can sit out there more often!

It's not that the carpet has to be replaced...I could certainly live with it for another few years or so. We're just trying to get things done early so we can enjoy it sooner. I never liked carpeting in the dining room...it's difficult to move the chairs, stains, etc. Since our living area is one large greatroom, we decided that it wouldn't look right to cut the room in half...hence, the wood floors (or a good laminate) in the greatroom only. The carpeting will definitely be staying in the bedrooms...not as much wear there!

We were lucky that our home came with the fans, blinds, washer and dryer...and all at the same price as a cottage without those upgrades. As far as replacing anything else, I don't think we will be doing anything in the near future...we are ecstatically happy with our home just the way it is now!