About

Site

Hi everyone,

If you’ve ever thought “I bet I can do that” about something in which you’ve zero experience, then this is the site for you! These pages chronicle the misadventures and triumphs of my journey: bringing fresh life to my newly purchased 1900 colonial house.

Turning this house into a home.

You might ask, “What makes her qualified to restore this house?” Honestly, nothing special! I have limited experience with woodworking and power tools. I have no experience with the majority of the projects I will be tackling. What I do have is the right mindset! I have a passion and a love for old houses, that when coupled with my determination and stubbornness, gives me just enough confidence to think I can pull it off.

You don’t know what you’re capable of until you try! I strive to embrace that philosophy and I encourage you to do so, as well. Is there a project you’ve been postponing because you’re not sure you can do it? Give it a whirl and see how it goes! Otherwise, sit back and watch what I’m sure will be a series of ups and down, with more than a few gaffs and laughs as I start this odyssey!

Me

My name is Katie and I’ve just bought my first home! It’s going to be a long process to update this house while maintaining its historic charm, but I couldn’t be more pumped to get started.

By day I’m a sonographer – ultrasound technologist, working at a hospital. I love my job. I like the challenge that ultrasound provides; no two patients or exams are the same, and my job never fails to teach me something new. I’ve also met so many amazing people through my line of work and I love the human connection that it offers.

But, ultrasound wasn’t always my dream job! The first time I went to school I attended The Culinary Institute of America (CIA), a premier college specializing in the culinary arts. I received a degree in Baking and Pastry and then a second in Restaurant Management. However, upon graduation, I realized that while I love the kitchen, it wasn’t the career I wanted. I was researching a nearby state school, hoping to be inspired, when I stumbled across their ultrasound program. Seven months after I left The CIA, I started my pre-requisites for ultrasound.

While my career path may not have remained constant, something that has not changed is my love of DIY and creative endeavors. Since high school I have dabbled in pyrography (woodburning), mostly creating art pieces for friends. A few years ago my parents left for the weekend to celebrate their anniversary and while they were gone my aunt and I tackled our first woodworking project – a table. Within 48 hours it was sitting in the kitchen. There are many things I’d love to learn more about: stained glass, forging, welding, concrete work, etc. But to me, the biggest challenge is a house.

Which is why I’m so excited to start this journey! There is no shortage of projects waiting for me. There is flooring to be replaced, bathrooms to be gutted, kitchen to be renovated, windows to restore, an in-law suite to build, and so much more! My woodworking tools, many of which have never been opened, will finally get put to use. It’s going to be tough, but completely worth it.