#Tub-To-Shower Conversion Miami

[miamifirstremodel]

Professional Shower & Bathtub Replacement Services in Miami

When it comes to home renovations, nothing rejuvenates a bathroom quite like a fresh shower or bathtub replacement. At Miami First Remodeling, we are dedicated to providing top-tier Shower & Bathtub Replacement Miami service, transforming your bathroom into a space of both beauty and functionality. With years of experience in the remodeling industry, our skilled team works diligently to deliver outstanding craftsmanship that will leave you with a bathroom you’ll love for years to come.

Why Choose Shower & Bathtub Replacement?

In the fast-paced Miami lifestyle, bathrooms serve as sanctuaries of relaxation. However, over time, your shower or bathtub may begin to show signs of wear and tear. Whether you're dealing with outdated designs, cracked surfaces, or inefficient water flow, replacing your shower or bathtub can significantly enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your space. Miami First Remodeling specializes in providing solutions tailored to your specific needs, helping you create a luxurious and modern bathroom.

Benefits of Shower & Bathtub Replacement in Miami

1. Improved Aesthetics:

Replacing your old shower or bathtub breathes new life into your bathroom. You can choose from modern, sleek designs that complement your home’s interior and provide a visually pleasing space for you to unwind.

2. Enhanced Functionality:

New showers and bathtubs come equipped with the latest technology, offering features like water-saving systems, superior durability, and comfort-focused designs. A replacement ensures you enjoy the benefits of modern innovations.

3. Increased Home Value:

Upgrading your bathroom with a new shower or bathtub can boost your property value, making it more appealing to potential buyers. In a competitive real estate market like Miami, small improvements can make a big difference.

4. Better Water Efficiency:

Older models often use more water than necessary, leading to higher utility bills. A new shower or bathtub is more water-efficient, saving you money in the long run and helping the environment.

Our Shower & Bathtub Replacement Process

At Miami First Remodeling, we follow a meticulous process to ensure every replacement project exceeds your expectations. From the initial consultation to the final installation, we prioritize your vision and comfort every step of the way.

Step 1: Consultation and Design Selection

During our initial consultation, we listen to your needs and assess your current bathroom layout. We present various options, including walk-in showers, soaking tubs, and custom-built designs. You get to choose materials, finishes, and configurations that match your style and budget.

Step 2: Preparation and Removal

Our team ensures that your home remains clean and protected during the project. We carefully remove the existing shower or bathtub, taking care to minimize any disruption to your daily routine.

Step 3: Installation and Finishing Touches

Our expert technicians handle the installation with precision. Whether it’s a frameless glass shower enclosure or a deep soaking tub, we guarantee a flawless fit and finish. After installation, we complete the project with attention to detail, ensuring all fixtures and accessories are correctly installed.

Step 4: Final Walkthrough and Inspection

Once the project is complete, we conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure you are satisfied with the work. We pride ourselves on delivering a final product that meets and exceeds your expectations.

Garage Conversions in Miami: Maximize Your Space

Beyond bathroom renovations, Miami First Remodeling offers premier Garage Conversions Miami service. A garage conversion is an excellent way to maximize your living space without expanding your home’s footprint. Whether you need an additional bedroom, a home office, or a studio, converting your garage provides endless possibilities.

Why Consider Garage Conversion?

Garage conversions are becoming increasingly popular among Miami homeowners who want to add functionality and value to their homes. Instead of allowing your garage to serve as a storage space for unused items, consider transforming it into a usable living area.

Here are some reasons to explore garage conversions:

1. Additional Living Space:

As your family grows or your lifestyle changes, you may need extra living space. Garage conversions offer an affordable way to gain this space without the expense of an extension.

2. Increased Property Value:

A well-executed garage conversion can significantly increase the value of your home. Whether you plan to sell in the future or simply want to invest in your property, a converted garage adds value and appeal.

3. Flexibility and Versatility:

Converted garages can serve multiple purposes, from guest rooms to entertainment areas. The flexibility of this space allows you to adapt it to your current and future needs, making it a smart investment.

4. Cost-Effective Home Expansion:

Compared to traditional home additions, garage conversions are typically more affordable and require less time to complete. You get more usable square footage without the need for extensive construction work.

Our Garage Conversion Process

The success of your garage conversion relies on expert planning and execution, which is why Miami First Remodeling is the trusted choice for many Miami homeowners. Here’s a glimpse into our garage conversion process:

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Design Planning

We start by discussing your vision for the converted space. Whether you need a functional home office or a cozy guest suite, we develop a design plan that suits your needs and enhances the overall layout of your home.

Step 2: Permit Acquisition

Our team handles all necessary permits and ensures that the conversion meets local building codes. We take the hassle out of navigating Miami's permitting process, so you can focus on enjoying your new space.

Step 3: Structural and Aesthetic Modifications

Depending on your garage’s current structure, we may make modifications such as insulating walls, installing windows, and upgrading the flooring. We also pay attention to aesthetics, ensuring that the new space seamlessly blends with the rest of your home.

Step 4: Final Touches and Inspection

Once construction is complete, we perform a thorough inspection to ensure everything is up to code and meets our high standards. We walk you through the finished project to ensure you are delighted with your new space.

Why Choose Miami First Remodeling?

At Miami First Remodeling, we are committed to excellence in every project we undertake. Our dedication to quality craftsmanship, customer satisfaction, and attention to detail sets us apart from other remodeling companies in Miami.

Here’s why you should choose us for your next bathroom renovation or garage conversion:

Experienced Professionals: Our team consists of highly skilled professionals with years of experience in bathroom renovations and garage conversions.

Customized Solutions: We work closely with you to create designs that reflect your style, preferences, and functional needs.

Timely Completion: We respect your time and aim to complete every project on schedule, without compromising quality.

Competitive Pricing: We offer high-quality services at competitive rates, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to transform your bathroom with a new shower or bathtub or maximize your home’s potential through a garage conversion, Miami First Remodeling is the company to trust. We bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

[bathroomrenovationus]

Revamp your home with Miami home remodeling services, specializing in expert kitchen and bathroom renovations.

Are you dreaming of a sleek, modern kitchen where culinary creativity flows effortlessly? Or perhaps you envision a luxurious, spa-like bathroom retreat where relaxation takes center stage? Look no further than Miami Home Remodeling to turn your visions into reality. Specializing in Kitchen Renovation Miami and Bathroom Renovation Miami, we are dedicated to enhancing your living spaces with expert craftsmanship, innovative designs, and personalized service.

Elevate Your Culinary Experience with Kitchen Renovation Miami

Your kitchen is more than just a place to cook; it's the heart of your home, where family gathers and memories are made. At Miami Home Remodeling, we understand the importance of a functional and stylish kitchen. Whether you're looking to upgrade outdated appliances, expand your storage space, or completely redesign the layout, our team of experienced professionals is here to guide you through every step of the renovation process.

Tailored Designs for Every Taste

No two kitchens are alike, and neither are our designs. We collaborate closely with you to understand your vision and lifestyle, ensuring that your new kitchen reflects your personality and meets your practical needs. From contemporary chic to timeless elegance, our design experts will create a custom plan that maximizes space and enhances functionality without compromising on aesthetics.

Quality Craftsmanship

At Miami Home Remodeling, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality craftsmanship. We work with skilled artisans and use premium materials to ensure that your kitchen renovation not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time. Whether it's installing state-of-the-art appliances, custom cabinetry, or stylish countertops, our attention to detail guarantees a flawless finish that exceeds your expectations.

Efficient Project Management

We understand that kitchen renovations can be disruptive to your daily routine. That's why our team employs efficient project management techniques to minimize downtime and ensure a smooth, timely completion. From initial consultation to final inspection, we keep you informed and involved, ensuring that your renovation experience is stress-free and enjoyable.

Create Your Oasis with Bathroom Renovation Miami

Your bathroom should be a sanctuary – a place to unwind and rejuvenate after a long day. Whether you desire a spa-inspired retreat or a functional family space, Miami Home Remodeling specializes in creating bathrooms that blend luxury with practicality.

Luxurious Designs

Our designers are experts in transforming ordinary bathrooms into extraordinary spaces. We incorporate luxurious features such as walk-in showers, soaking tubs, and custom vanities to elevate your bathroom experience. From sleek, modern designs to classic elegance, we tailor every detail to suit your preferences and lifestyle.

Functional Efficiency

In addition to aesthetics, we prioritize functional efficiency in our bathroom renovations. We optimize layouts to maximize space and enhance usability, ensuring that every inch of your bathroom is utilized effectively. Our selection of high-quality fixtures and materials not only enhances durability but also adds a touch of sophistication to your new bathroom.

Personalized Service

At Miami Home Remodeling, we believe that exceptional service is the foundation of a successful renovation. From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, our team is dedicated to providing personalized attention and guidance. We listen to your ideas, address your concerns, and work tirelessly to bring your vision to life while exceeding your expectations.

Why Choose Miami Home Remodeling?

Choosing Miami Home Remodeling for your kitchen and bathroom renovations means choosing excellence, integrity, and reliability. With years of experience in the industry and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we have earned a reputation as Miami's premier remodeling company.

Expertise and Experience

Our team of designers, craftsmen, and project managers brings years of expertise to every project. We stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations in the remodeling industry to deliver cutting-edge designs and superior craftsmanship.

Transparent Communication

We believe in open and transparent communication throughout the renovation process. From detailed project timelines to transparent pricing, we keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring that there are no surprises.

Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Your satisfaction is our priority. We take pride in our work and stand behind every renovation with a commitment to quality and durability. Our goal is to not only meet but exceed your expectations, leaving you with a home that you'll love for years to come.

Conclusion

Are you ready to transform your kitchen or bathroom with Miami Home Remodeling? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards your dream renovation. Let us show you why we are Miami's trusted choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations. Whether you're dreaming of a state-of-the-art kitchen or a luxurious bathroom retreat, Miami Home Remodeling is here to bring your vision to life. Experience the difference of expert craftsmanship, personalized service, and stunning designs – because your home deserves the best.

[writerwrites]

A Cruel Tide

Pairing: Steve Rogers (nomad!Steve) x Reader

Summary: A lost hero thinks she needs saving, but this divorcée’s needs were different, fleeting, and then full of attachment. Can they overcome the burdens on their shoulders and keep their word?

Word Count: 5.9k

Warnings: Smut 18+, specifically unprotected sex, soft Dom Steve (if you squint), some mentions of a divorce and criminal father and hints of winter holiday cheer.

A/N: *THIS IS A ONE SHOT* This is the Week 1 prompt to the Optimistic Captain Donut Challenge created by @captainchrisbaby​ @captain-a-rogerss , @optimistic-dinosaur-nacho​ , and @donutloverxo ... The Week 1 Prompt was based off of the moodboard below and “What Could Be as Lonely as Love” by Amber Run

“Please come back, Baby. It’s Christmas! Where are you going to go?” She heard her ex plead on the other end of the line as she stood soaking wet in the lobby of a cheap hotel. Even the weather had turned to shit on the first holiday since the divorce. “You didn’t even take your bag. What am I supposed to tell them when they come out of the kitchen with your favorite dessert?”

“The truth.” Her words were as cold as the sleet pelting the glass door by the empty concierge desk. A few taps on the phone screen and it was over, screen black. Silent. Merry Christmas, no more lies. Just as her hand went for the bell again a stranger cleared his throat. Hand snapping back to her side, her gaze caught the movement out of someone by the vending machines in her peripheral vision. It took a minute to place him, the grown out blonde hair seemed darker and his thick beard certainly changed the alter boy appearance that the world had made synonymous with his Captain America persona. Then it hit her like a ton of bricks: this was a wanted man. She could have pulled her phone back out, could’ve called for help or ignored him, but when her eyes met his, despite the long disheveled hair and thick beard, the softness to him was undeniable. The only thing she could muster was a simple, few hours too early, “Merry Christmas.”

“You just missed him, the manager. He left to get a good seat at midnight mass.” His blue eyes flitted to the window and back to you. It was like he was waiting for the woman to say something as he flipped a coin in his hand and tucked it back into one of his pockets. “You’ve got to be cold. No point in waiting around or paying for a room when I’ve got an extra bed.”

Even with his nod for the young woman to follow him she was reluctant, wondering why he had a second empty bed and why he wasn’t with someone for the holidays- even as a fugitive. She couldn’t remember all of their names, never really following all the ‘super terrorism’ headlines, but knew there was at least a half dozen of Stark’s former friends that had stood against him, were arrested, and went ‘missing’ from some prison facility she couldn’t recall the name of.  Despite her mind trying to dredge up whatever fleeting bit of news she’d heard, her feet were still following him through the dim hallway until they made it to his door. “What were you doing in the lobby if you knew he wasn’t there?”

“Vending machine. No room service tonight… I’ll get you some clothes and head back over. Do you want anything?” The grit in his voice was familiar, the sound of exhaustion, and her eyes moved over his frame as he spoke to the door handle and then the closet rather than looking at her. Where had he been while the world was looking for him? She mused as she watched him dig through a duffle bag and pulled out some extra clothes. When he turned to give them to her, the Avenger’s eyebrows knit together. The look of concern made her shoulders turn in self-consciously. “You’re shaking.”

In the subtle exchange of a flannel button up and worn in sweatpants her hands brushed over his, finding them rough with soft and slightly raised scars at his knuckles. “Sorry.” She looked for the bathroom door and stepped around him, pausing before reaching for the handle, talking to her heels. “I’m sorry. Uhmm, no thank you, I had dinner. I’m just cold, wet… Thank you for being so nice to me.” She couldn’t do it, couldn’t pull her gaze off the floor, and with nowhere to go she couldn’t run. An apologetic smile found her lips and he saw it but gave her some space, leaving the room to go back to the vending machines before she walked into the bathroom and changed.

Steve stood at the vending machines, texting on his phone while he dropped money into the machine. His thoughts were on the phone call his superior hearing had overheard and the subsequent stammer in the young woman’s heartbeat. He knew the feeling of love lost too well, but to see it written on her face, to see even her dark skin pallor, it brought back a sorrow he’d thought he’d buried when Peggy died. By the time his ordered assortment of chips, cookies, and honeybuns had thunked to the bottom Natasha and Sam had joined him in the lobby. “I’m not sure she’s going to talk to me.” Steve started, only to be interrupted by Natasha.

“I told you that I should have gone in. You’re not as clever as you think you are, Rogers.” Nat smirked, leaning against the wall after catching a bag of chips he tossed at her. “We’re running out of time. The longer he’s out there…”

“It’s not that. She was on the phone when she came in and it wasn’t about her father. Something doesn’t add up. Why would she even make this trip?”

“Eavesdropping on phone calls? Step up your game. She’s been tapped for a week, we don’t need your ears, we need a conversation. You got this, brother. Do what you’ve got to do to get her to talk.” Sam gave him a smirk and clapped Natasha on the back. He heard Steve, but time was of the essence and with no one at the prison talking, their targets only connection to the outside world, that they knew of, was sitting in this hotel room and they needed answers. “If you can’t make it happen then send Nat a text and we can pretend she’s back for the other bed early.”

“Whatever it takes,” Nat crushed the empty bag in her palm and chucked it over the concierge desk and into a waste bin as Steve nodded and walked past his comrades, but the blonde grabbed his arm. It would have been an understatement to say she hadn’t taken the agreement to have Steve lead the interrogation felt a little personal, but she knew he could do it, perhaps just not as quickly as her. “Try and have a little fun while you’re at it, Cap.”

The jacket dripped into the tub as it hung over the shower curtain rod. It was on sale, a thoughtless gift from her father three years ago, but the only coat she owned with lining since the separation led to a move to Miami. The knee length silver dress was new and now ruined, tag discarded in the trash and the heels next to it over the vent. As she looked in the mirror, water running for what seemed like an hour before it reached lukewarm, she twisted her dark locks so that they were out of her face and less likely to frizz. The waxy soap doing little to rid her of the full face of make up which hadn’t budged in the fray of arriving at the one hotel in the small town that she could afford. Despite freshening up, her body was still shaking. The flannel’s too long sleeve flapped past her fingertips and the sweats kept riding down to the widest point of her hips, making her look like a tired college kid.

With both of the beds made, she couldn’t be sure which one to take and settled for the one nearest the bathroom. As soon as she collapsed onto it she could smell the same scent as the shirt she now wore. The distinct sweet woody smell of patchouli, slightly cloaked in a hint of fabric softener. Her teeth chattered as the door opened, but she didn’t bother to move outside of hiding her face. She felt the weight of his body slumping onto the mattress at her side, the sound of plastic raining down on the sheets was what made her peak her head out. “Oh, wow! Was there a malfunction in the machine?”

His steely blue eyes looked at the young woman with worry but it seemed to melt away in a blink or two. “No, I couldn’t decide and I remembered you said you’d had dinner but not dessert, so Merry Christmas.” Both of their fingers moved toward the honeybun and he laughed a little, “A deal? One of us gets the honeybun, the other gets to pick the movie?”

Her chin quivered, as she tried to smile while she reflected on the options. “No deal. We split the honeybun and agree on a movie.”

Taking her lip in her teeth to stop the chatter and anxiety, her sad eyes looked up at him. “All right, you win.” He got up and passed her the remote, taking his time to go back to the closet where he turned up with a stack of clothes under his arm and socks in his hand. “Here, I forgot these. I’m just gonna hop in the shower, maybe be five minutes. No stealing my half or starting a movie without me.”

By the time he emerged, warm steam poured out of the bathroom with him. Steve thought she would have warmed up and calmed down, the sound of her heartbeat and shivering no longer ringing in his ears. Instead, he found all of the food in a little pyramid on the nightstand and a black and white movie waiting for them on the television. “You can have the whole honeybun if we can watch this…”

The glimmer in her eyes and swollen red bottom lip, she could tell he knew she’d been chewing on it the whole time. He slumped back onto the bed next to her, his damp hair dripping down into his beard. His brow furrowed thinking she’d leaned in when it was just his weight on the cheap mattress sliding her in. She wasn’t sure why she hadn’t pulled away immediately and then she felt the shiver of his warm, minty breath on her skin. A wave of relief washed over her when his features warmed. “No deal, we split it and we’ll watch your movie.”

His words had been whispered and he didn’t pull his blue eyes from her face. She felt naked being looked at so seriously and her eyes moved down the slope of his nose to the beard. Reaching up, her small hands brushed the droplets of water out of it, surprised to find it softer than she could remember a beard being. Her thoughts immediately went to the last beard she touched, the last hotel room, the last person she wanted to think about and her thighs clenched together with want while her eyes pressed together to hold back the emotions she had been running from for a year and had literally sprinted from an hour ago. “It’s The Lemon Drop Kid… it’s the Silver Bells movie.”

Steve leaned his face into her palm and offered up a simple grunt of acknowledgement before he opened his eyes again. She watched him in shock, that little act of intimacy making her aware of how lonely she was in this world. He seemed to notice, covering her hand in his. “Your hands are still cold.” The tension between them, the unblinking gaze, the whispered words, both of their hearts were racing. Steve caved, giving her a choice. “Want me to stay? It would probably be easier to share snacks?”

Before she could stop herself she was nodding and he was leaning over her, taking the honeybun off the nightstand before collapsing back on the pillows. Steve watched her lick her lips but assumed it was a natural reaction to the honeybun passing her nose. With her hands pulled to her chest, she swallowed when his solid frame hung in front of her for that fleeting second and when it was gone her hands covered her mouth to stop herself from taking in a deep breath of the intoxicating smell of him. Her eyes stayed glued to the television as she blew shaky breaths onto her fingertips. The monologue in her mind about all the little anxieties of life that led her to the desperate place where she was okay sharing a hotel room with a fugitive stranger over Christmas was louder than the man opening the plastic, chewing, starting the movie, and then talking to her about her half of the honeybun. Her dark eyes blinked at him when his face was in front of her again, her thick lashes fluttering in confusion. “Hmm?”

Steve set the snack down and took her hands in his, rubbing them gently as his callouses brushed against her soft skin and his beard tickled her palms when he brought them to her full lips. He only let one hand go with a nod to the food before he continued on his little mission. She nibbled at the sticky treat and watched him, holding it out every bite or two for him to steal a bite for himself until it was gone. Nothing made sense to her anymore, she wasn’t a flirt and certainly never fell into the category of being overtly trusting. He picked up on the nerves, the expression of her being trapped in her thoughts, it reminded him of Bucky and a pang of guilt to his closest friend being in an icebox in Wakanda fleetingly hit him. Neither of them needed to be alone with their thoughts on a holiday, he decided, so he tried to get to work and strike up a conversation, “Why’d you pick this movie? Not trying to make me feel good by picking an oldie, are you?”

“I used to watch it with my dad… Everyone has a go to Christmas movie, I guess. I just didn’t think I’d see it on television. When it comes to holiday movies, I guess most channels play Miracle on 34th Street if they’re doing a classic… most do the newer films. Do you have a favorite?” She watched him settle in next to her once more, reaching for his hands as he pulled away and, to her surprise, he took it back in his and draped the other arm over her shoulders.

She grabbed a pack of cookies with her free hand and Steve’s blue eyes watched her more than the movie. The woman no longer shook or shrunk in on herself with a little bit of reassurance and comfort, again, reminding him of Bucky. “Why aren’t you with him this Christmas? Why aren’t you with anyone?”

The questions felt immediately too intrusive, despite the casual tone in his voice and her body tensed against his briefly before she decided they were totally normal questions. “I haven’t heard from him in two years. I don’t really have people… I gave up most of my friends over a relationship that ended a year ago.” Her gaze fell to her hand in his, the ring finger glaringly naked as the Avenger’s thumb brushed over her knuckles. “You have a lot of scars too.”

He was processing every word and micro-expression when his gaze followed hers to his hands, initially wondering if she’d heard something about his story. “Part of the job. I take a lick just fine though.”

She nodded, noting the present tense to his response before deciding she hadn’t meant just the scars on his hand. Though she didn’t really know the depth of it, there was some mutual sentiment she couldn’t put her thumb on with him. “Doesn’t make it right. There’s enough pain in the world to not need to carry the memory of it on our skin until the end of time.” Her own were hidden under the long sleeves of his flannel and she’d almost forgotten how she swam in it despite her curvy frame. “Have you seen this one before?”

“No, I missed out. I’m sure I’ll love it. I’ve always been a fan of film.” He stole a cookie, mulling over how to keep the conversation on her father, “I’m sorry you haven’t talked to your father. Have you thought about calling him tonight? Tis the season, right?”

“It’s easier said than done.” She sighed. “I don’t have a number to reach him and he doesn’t have mine. I… I don’t even know if he’s alive.” The words came out in such a broken way, at first rushed and full of closed off frustration- not at Steve but the situation. Then came the familiar burn of grief and the internal conflict of trying to determine how much information was too much information to share on the subject. “Sorry…”

“Don’t be,” He quickly interrupted her apology, but he felt the damage had been done. Steve pulled her to his chest in a slow but gentle hug and again she didn’t fight it. She rested her head against his chest, listening to his strong pulse beneath the hard muscles and her legs tangled in his as his sweats slipped lower on her hips. “For what it’s worth, I can’t get a hold of the person I’d like to spend the holiday with, too. Missed a lot of Christmases.” He swallowed down the knot in his throat, “Maybe we can just focus on being present and what we can change.”

Resting her chin on his chest, she looked up at him, “If you want to talk about it, you can. I’m a better listener than a talker.” It was true, after a year of keeping a massive secret about an ended marriage full of them, she became a master of doing as she was told.

Steve moved his hands up her back, inadvertently sighing when she pressed herself closer. They were both touch starved and though he thought he should keep his guard up, that this was work, the way she looked at him made his new hard exterior feel like a facade. Looking at her through his long lashes, he felt torn for the first time between the job and physical needs, his thoughts trying to just find some balance. His palm brushed against the skin peaking out at her lower back, “I don’t really have much to say about him. My best friend, he’s getting some help and I can’t be with him while he’s doing it. I feel helpless about it and then a bit torn up about missing more time with him. It’s a complicated relationship and complicated circumstances.”

Reaching up, she scratched her fingers through his beard, “But does he know that you’d be there supporting him if you could?” Steve nodded and she offered up a small smile and a few more words, “Then that’s all that really matters. You’ll be there for him once you can. I may not know anything about you outside of this room or by any names except ‘Steve’ or ‘Captain America’, but I can tell the news read you wrong.”

Her dark eyes searched his as she chewed on her bottom lip. Though she’d never thought of herself as a good judge of character and had certainly found good in horrible people, the man’s little gestures and something in those blue eyes told her that she didn’t need to be afraid of him. His hands moved up her back, under the flannel shirt massaging the soft expanse of her supple curves. Just as slowly, she untangled her legs from his, the sweatpants slipping down her thick thighs with the traction. She left them there, climbing onto his lap with little regard to the fact that she was now in her silky knickers on a soldier’s lap, fingertips still pawing at his beard. Steve’s hands moved over her waist, her body as pliable as his wasn’t and he watched her throat and savored the hiccup in her pulse every time his hands brushed over a new part of her skin. “We should probably…”

With a nervous laugh she agreed, but her hips were still rocking against him and his mouth was still inching closer to hers. “…or we could ju-”

Steve wouldn’t be able to explain why he’d crossed this line later when Nat and Sam asked him about the lack of intel. A part of him didn’t care. Her full lips were soft against his and the way her wanton whimpers poured into his mouth when his tongue drew across them made his cock twitch. Every little sound and taste of her made his body react. Steve’s hands reached up her full frame, opening the buttons of his shirt and discarding it until the curvy young woman was on his lap in nothing but her bra and panties. His bright blue eyes were alight as they gleaned over her frame. His sex life wasn’t anything to write home about, chaste in comparison to Sam, Nat, and even Bucky; it also happened to revolve around work- agents in peak shape. He ached for her, a natural beauty with soft edges. Steve palmed up her back and she followed his fingers, helping him undo the clasp before helping the silky number join his shirt somewhere over the edge of the bed. Her eyes were on his throat, Adam’s apple bobbing as he swallowed at the dry knot there, as she continued rolling her hips against his. The woman’s were cheeks pink with embarrassment at her level of exposure in the warm light of the room, the tips of her fingers slowly plucking at his own clothes before Steve leaned in and pulled her mouth back to his. “You’re beautiful.”

The sweet words pouring from his lips just before they latched onto her breasts made her laugh and then gasp for air. His tongue drew circles around her nippled before he nipped at them and his hands caressed the soft flesh. As he marked her with three wine stained blemishes on her chest, she finished removing his shirt, only laughing again at the contrast of his toned body to her swelling curves. Her laughter filled the room as he smiled against her skin and she responded by reaching into his pants and stroking him until he was completely hard in her hand. She couldn’t help herself, panties soaked from every touch. She pulled them to the side, rubbing her wet slit against his length. Like animals they both pawed and groaned over the new friction. “Do you want me?” Her nervous whispered words brushed against his ear and Steve lifted her off his lap just enough to pull shimmy off his pants and line himself up to her entrance. Pulling his mouth to hers she kissed him softly, slowly lowering herself onto him despite his firm grip on her waist a clear bruising plea for more. “Be gentle with me.”

Steve groaned as he filled her slowly and completely, her warm wet cunt milking him as she gasped into the curve of his neck. His lips ghosted across every inch of her skin as he stretched her out, hardly moving or encouraging her to move, simply appreciating how good it felt to be inside her. When her breathing steadied, Steve palmed over her ass and pulled on the silky fabric of her panties like they were reins. Her back arched and she started to grind on his cock, her clit taut against the fabric and his pelvis only causing her to moan loader as she gripped the soldier’s broad shoulders. With a firm clap and squeeze to the round soft skin of her cheeks she picked up her pace, eyes closing with satisfaction as his thick cock filled her and stroked her walls again and again. “Good girl.” He groaned, his hands moving down her thick thighs, the veins in his arms prominent as he helped lift and drop her down on his length. Steve’s blue hues settled on the view of her dripping down his length, so wet for him. How long had it been since he gave in to just wanting someone? His thoughts were fleeting, drawn back to the reality of the stranger riding him like she hadn’t been satisfied in her entire life, now her fingers pulling his mouth to her, but he nibbled on her lip and pushed her back, his mouth drawn back to her full breasts.

With here hands clutching the bedsheets behind her, back arched as she rode his slow deep thrusts into her, she couldn’t help but tighten around him, watching him hold her was one thing… a simple delight she’d not had in a year. It was listening to him grunt and growl when her pussy throbbed around him because of the little delights. As he sucked on her breasts and he squeezed her ass holding her down on his thick cock with every thrust, she felt him hit her sweet spot, sending little heat waves through her core until she was begging. “I’m so close. I need you, Steve. Please, please make me cum.”

Steve obliged, easily laying her back on the bed and tangling his legs in hers as he lowered his weight onto her small frame. His hips rutted against her and he grunted against her mouth between greedy kisses while his hands, which had been pinning her to the bed spread her legs further apart, giving him complete access to push her over the edge. She bit her finger on one hand as the other pulled at his thighs, muffling her pleas for release, “Come on, sweetheart. Let me hear you. Let me hear that beautiful voice say my name.”

His thumb brushed over her clit in teasing flits, back and forth and her hand left her swollen lips, clutching his wrist as he continued to rub her sensitive bud through her release. “Steve! Please. I…” Her orgasm came hard, pouring her juices over his cock he kept warm and deep inside of her, savoring that tight pussy now clutching him like she’d never let go and all the subsequent little earthquakes from his ministrations on her clit. Her thighs shook and she laughed and purred and pleaded, but he gave it to her and when she was undone on the bed, his hard length still deep inside he laid down next to her, and rubbed her back. “Don’t stop.” She whispered after a tired soft kiss up his neck to the scruff of his beard at his jaw. Her leg slid over his hip and, again, he abided her request, his hand moving down that leg and back until he was sure she was ready. Her soft kisses confirmation as he began to rock into her once more.

This wasn’t just a fuck, it was slow and sensitive, pleading. He worshiped every inch of her as he felt her soak his cock two more times from the slow, deep grinding and nipple play. Each time he marked her skin with another hickey, groaning into her neck and shoulder and mouth about how sexy listening to her cum was, how good she felt around him, how perfect her soft curves were. The praise made her throb around him and he pulled her onto his chest, asking her where she wanted him to finish. Her pleading to stay inside her, the purrs of how much she loved being full of him set him off.  She rested her body gently against him and, cradled there, he claimed her in broken and hungry thrusts, his coarse hands holding her tightly to his frame as a final thrust to the hilt and he poured hot spurts of his seed into her. Her lips brushed across his salted skin before she let out a satisfied sigh. His blue eyes closed, a sleepy laugh passing his lips, “It doesn’t get better than this does it?”

Her tired eyes peaked open at him and she giggled as his hands flopped to their sides, only his finger tips tickling her tired thighs. “I’ve never had better.”

A peaked ‘hmm’ passed his lips as if to ask, is that so, but neither of them had energy to spare for conversation. Steve managed to tuck one arm under his head, his heavy eyes watching her slowly fall asleep, the unprofessionalism of his decision to sleep with her now sinking in as the charm of her melted into a warm, silent comfort. In bittersweet introspection he thought of how to rectify the interrogation that needed to happen. Knowing she wasn’t from this city and likely to go home under the circumstances, he settled on making plans to find her in a week. Nat and Sam wouldn’t be happy, but he’d find a way to keep them busy with other leads until he could talk to her again. Silver Bells echoed through the room and Steve fell asleep, just for a little while, basking in the comfort of being adored and held rather than objectified or idolized. For the first time, he dreamt of a dance with a partner that wasn’t Peggy.

The familiar quiet buzz of her phone woke her up with a cat-like stretch and sigh, momentarily forgetting where she was. Clumsily smacking her hand around in the direction of the sound she quickly hit the wall of muscle at her side. “Good Christmas morning. You’re up early.” He smiled with a quiet laugh on his lips. “I plugged your phone in when mine stopped charging. I think all your messages are coming in.”

Her eyes sheepishly looked up from the pillow at him, processing the fact that the night hadn’t been a dream. “Merry Christmas morning, Sir. You’ve been up long?”

With a shrug, he let her process the fact that he was in dark tactical gear. He broke her thought process with the soft whisper of her name, waking her up with delightful surprise and curiosity as his expression looked hopeful. “What are you doing New Years Eve?”

She bit her lip and rolled onto her back, staring at the ceiling with no desire to look at her phone or confess how dull. “Home alone, I guess.”

“Don’t have to be if you don’t want to.” Steve set his phone next to hers and slid down next to her, “All you have to do is ask.”

Her heart raced and she felt like she was still dreaming, but he reached out and brushed her dark hair from her eyes and met his gaze as Steve waited for her answer. “Find me in Miami and kiss me at midnight?”

With a satisfied hum, he closed the space between them. Steve hovered over her, craning his neck down for a quick peck when she shyly pressed her lips together. “That explains the coat.” He laughed, unpinning her so she could get out of bed, watching her as she slipped out of bed and picked up clothes from the floor as she tiptoed to the bathroom. Though she hadn’t gotten the door closed, she already saw her things neatly folded on the edge of the sink, a little travel kit set atop it all. As if he could see her smile, he hollered toward the door. “I hope you don’t mind that I spoke to the manager when they came in this morning about needing some basics.”

The rest of the morning went by too quickly for either of their liking. He didn’t join her in the shower, distracted by a disagreement in a group text with Nat, Sam, and the other nomads about trying to interrogate her again in a week. Meanwhile, she was glad for the privacy to do her hair and clean the night from her brown skin, the only reminders left were the tender aches and the plum bruises. Just thinking about it made her wet again and, despite the work related distraction in his hands his superior hearing made him hear her moan more than once, making his twitching cock semi-hard in his tac suit. He sat with her while she waited for her ride, he took her number, and when he kissed her goodbye, his flannel shirt tucked into her purse, both of them found a slice of happiness in a lonely holiday.

The loft apartment felt vacuous compared to the cheap hotel room, but she managed to make the most of the long week. Decorating the place with a small tree draped in tinsel and silver bell ornaments, draping the window sills and counters in twinkling garland, and counting down the days to New Years Eve. Each day felt like a month, trying to reconnect with her father while juggling her meaningless job. Each night she pulled on his shirt and her hands slipped between her thighs until she fell asleep blissed out in the memory of their night together. There hadn’t been a single word from the nomadic Captain until a dozen roses waited for her on the doorstep of her apartment, a small card with silver bells detailing the corners that simply read: One more day, doll. - S.

Though Steve thought a week’s wait to see her again would have been painless compared to the lifetime he’d missed in ice or the subsequent years he’d spent mindlessly droning on until he joined the Avengers, but the task had been anything but speedy for an unexpected reason. Sharing the limited information he’d gathered, Nat and Sam took new perspectives on getting the answers they needed for their mission, all three of them tasked with finding people connected to the family. All the digging, shared intel, pointed to an intricately planned prison escape gone wrong. While Nat and Sam thought his worries for their target’s daughter were unfounded due to estrangement, Steve had every intention of keeping his word, simply too busy moving and looking for answers to engage in the formalities of modern flirtation. Every day was busy with work and every night, surrounded by pictures and papers, he’d wonder if she was drowning in thoughts of him too. The roses were his way of making it up to her, his confession, and every detail was carefully thought over.

As she sat in the twinkling holiday lights, the sun long since set. She clicked on the television to a channel showing the Ball Drop in New York, muting it to play her own playlist of holiday songs. To be fair, Steve hadn’t given her a time he’d show up. Cracking open the red wine, she danced alone in the shimmering silver dress that ghosted across her knees and hugged her hips, time slipping by mildly unnoticed with each sip and song. Just as she’d descended into the cushions the door to the apartment opened, startling her and causing her wine to spill across the cushions. It was the broad shoulders filling the doorway that made her hold in her scream. The familiar silhouette stood speechless and her mouth bobbed open and closed like a fish when they closed the space between the living room and front door. Her eyes moved to the television, expecting to see some sort of red tape Breaking News alert that pigs could now fly. Instead, her eyes fell on the time, bright white in the corner and reading seven minutes past midnight. She ran her tongue across her painted lips, closed her eyes, and laughed. Fate, she decided, had little regard for New Year promises.

Taglist: @caplanbuckybarnes​

[civilcoconstruction]

2021 Guide: Costs to Remodel in Miami, Florida

The costs to remodel in Miami: Kitchen, bath, whole home, and outdoor, plus resale value and permit tips

Whether you own a modern beach-side condo, an on-the-bay house, or a bungalow away from it all on a quiet street, the process of doing a remodel in Miami can be enjoyable—with a rewarding outcome. 

A budget is the start of any renovation, and every project is unique: from materials, adding value and lifestyle to your home, and working with the HOA. Sweeten, a free renovation platform that matches homeowners with licensed general contractors and tracks their project, offers this cost guide to remodeling in Miami to provide a jumping-off point to get you on your way. 

Remodeling costs per square foot in Miami

Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs to remodel in Miami, Florida. The costs are across five categories: full home, kitchen, bathroom, deck additions, and permits. These figures are compiled from Sweeten general contractors and Remodeling’s Cost vs. Value Report:

Full home renovation: Starting at $100 – $250+ per square feet (psf)

Budget kitchen remodel: starting at $150 psf or $15,000 (based on 100 sq ft)

Mid-grade kitchen remodel: Starting at $325 psf or $32,500 (based on 100 sq ft)

High-end kitchen remodel: Staring at $650 psf or $65,000 (based on 100 sq ft)

Budget bathroom remodel: Starting at $300 psf or $10,500 (based on 35 sq ft)

Mid-grade bathroom remodel: Starting at $570 psf or $19,950 (based on 35 sq ft)

High-end bathroom remodel: Starting at $630 psf or $22,050 (based on 35 sq ft)

Basic wood deck addition: $40 psf or $13,000 (based on 325 sq ft)

Concrete patio addition with roof, electrical, plumbing, and a cooking area: $50,000

Keep in mind that every professional contractor will want to have a detailed conversation with you. They will also inspect your home before developing an estimate specific to your needs and wants.

Pro tip: Do not wait. The pandemic has caused a backlog in the supply of materials in many sectors. For homeowners interested in renovating, it’s smart to schedule and sign with a contractor to lock in your material prices. You’ll also want to book a start date on the contractor’s schedule. If you do wait, prices will only continue to go up and your material order starts at the back of a long queue.

How much does it cost to remodel a home in Miami?

If you’re renovating a house in the Miami area, expect costs to range from $100 to $250+ psf with $175 psf as the middle range for a full-scale remodel. If you’re aiming for a budget that is in the upper-middle-range, Miami-based Sweeten general contractor Adrian said you can expect to pay over $200,000 or about $200 psf. However, several elements affect this, like square footage, the state of the original home, and how expensive your tastes are. “It has all to do with the finishes,” Adrian said. By finishes, he means the elements you can see such as tiles, faucets, and kitchen countertops. With materials, plan to add to the timeline for installation and materials and labor costs. Using higher-end finishes will push your budget upwards by at least $50,000, he said. With the pandemic, material and labor costs have gone up due to higher demand. “There’s been a 20 percent in materials,” said Adrian.

The budget for renovating an apartment can be higher than house renovations. “If you’re doing a house, often you can work on the weekends,” said Adrian. In a condo, there are tight rules about when construction work can and can’t be done. These hours are put in place by the homeowners association (HOA) for each building. Often, this means only working within an eight-hour or so window Monday to Friday. This extends the timeline of a project, thus increasing the budget. HOAs might also charge a condo owner a fee to remodel their apartment. 

Disposing of trash adds to the cost of condo renovations. With a house, a general contractor can park a dumpster out the front. For condo remodels, general contractors will likely hire a separate contractor to come and lug construction trash away. This involves negotiating tight hallways and elevators as well as timeframes given by the HOA.  

How much does it cost to remodel a kitchen in Miami?

A kitchen renovation in the budget value range can come in starting at $150 psf or $15,000 for a space measuring around 100 square feet, according to Hancen, a Sweeten general contractor in Miami. To get a new kitchen at this price, it needs to be a rip-and-replace job, meaning a layout of the kitchen must stay the same with pipes and appliances remaining where they are.

Homeowners should look at materials like pre-made shaker-style cabinets and appliances from big-box stores like Home Depot. “I’ve also noticed a trend for concrete countertops,” said Hancen. “These can be cheaper than quartz, but they take more to maintain,” adding that a sealant needs to be applied annually. 

For a mid-grade kitchen remodel in Miami, Sweeten has seen costs starting at $325 psf or $32,500 for a 100-square-foot room. According to the 2021 Cost Vs Value Report, a mid-range kitchen remodel costs on average $73,645. This works out to $368 psf for a 200-square foot space. Almost 54 percent of that cost is recouped in the value it adds to a home. The example kitchen the report gave was 200 square feet with laminate countertops, semi-custom wood cabinets, and a stainless steel sink with a standard single-lever faucet. It also contained a built-in microwave, dishwasher, and custom lighting. Other than the addition of a kitchen island, the layout, such as where the oven and dishwasher were installed, remained the same as the original design.

Sweeten general contractor Domenico, also servicing Miami, recently completed a kitchen renovation in this price range. It included a countertop made from Dekton, a stain-, scratch-, heat-, and UV-resistant material. The cabinets were custom with self-closing doors, which took $40,000 from the budget. The appliances were from GE. 

Sweeten has seen high-end kitchen renovations in Miami start at $650 psf or $65,000 for a 100-square-foot space. The 2021 Cost Vs Value Report quotes $145,718 for this finish level, adding the same amount of value to a home’s resale value—50 percent—as a mid-range kitchen remodel. This included custom cabinets, built-in sliding shelves, stone countertops, and imported ceramic or glass tile backsplashes. The appliances were also upgraded, including a commercial-grade cooktop and vent hood, plus designer faucets and a water filtration system.

How much does it cost to remodel a bathroom in Miami?

At the budget level, expect a solid rip-and-replace bathroom with no behind-the-wall surprises to come in starting at $10,500 for a 35-square-foot room. Contractor Hancen specializes in bathrooms for the Miami area. He has completed a very basic 50-square-foot bathroom for $300 psf, he said. However, this is contingent on the layout staying the same and having no issues like leaks or mold discovered once the project begins. If you’re after this price, stick to a prefabricated vanity and ceramic tiles, which come out to about $2 psf. When it comes to faucets, toilets, and bathtubs, the brand American Standard is a good example of affordable, quality products. “These are the most well-priced materials I’ve seen and the most popular,” said Hancen.

The next step up is a mid-grade bathroom renovation. Expect the starting costs for this finish level to be $570 psf or $19,950 based on a 35-square-foot space. According to the 2021 Cost Vs Value Report, the average cost for this type of bathroom remodel in Miami is about $22,567 and about $644 psf. The example bathroom the report gave was a 5’ x 7’ space and involved installing a new porcelain-on-steel bathtub, ceramic tiles, and a lit and recessed medicine cabinet. A renovation in this vein can add about $12,051 to a home’s value.

A high-end bathroom remodel in the Miami area starts at $630 psf or $22,050 for a 35-square-foot space. According to the 2021 Cost Vs Value Report, the average price in this category is around $70,286. For this budget, you could expand your bathroom to around 100 square feet and can play around with elements like a freestanding soaker tub and a shower with recessed shelves, a frameless glass enclosure, and body spray fixtures. You’re also likely to afford a double sink and double-mirror vanity with custom drawers, and wall cabinets.

The cost of tiles can add up. On a recent project, Domenico’s client picked out a tile that had the appearance of wood and cost $20 psf. Another client wanted a wave pattern created out of tiles. “It was more difficult to install adding to the labor costs,” he said. “Occasionally, breakages happen, so that also needs to be covered.” 

The good news is this is an investment with about 48 percent of the budget added to your home’s sale price. 

Adding outdoor space to your home

In Florida, there is plenty of sun and enviable weather to take advantage of by renovating or adding an outdoor space to your home. Many Miami residents will use these spaces as an additional living space and even kitchen. 

For one project, Sweeten contractor Adrian added a 900 square foot patio to a house that had a budget of $50,000. “It was essentially another room to the house without the walls,” he said. It had a tiled roof supported by four columns, which was necessary so the structure could withstand a powerful hurricane. The flooring was Cuban tiles and there were fans and lighting so electrical work was required.

According to the 2021 Cost Vs Value Report, a 16′ x 20′  wood deck costs $15,216 and $20,879 for a composite one in the Miami area. If you went for a simple wood deck in a simple linear pattern, you could recoup close to 67 percent of the budget in the bump it gives to your home value. For this price, you could get a built-in bench and planter with stairs and railings.

Permit costs in Miami

The cost of permits, from a typical building permit to electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits, are calculated in different ways. Some permit costs are calculated by square footage. Some are calculated by the value of a project so an exact figure can take some time to figure out. That’s why general contractor Adrian puts an estimate in the initial budget. For example, with a $250,000 renovation, he puts a budget placeholder of $1,500 for the main building permit with an additional $500 each for plumbing, electrical and mechanical, if the project requires it. 

Miami-Dade county covers a huge amount of land and almost three million people. Each city—such as Miami South and Miami Lakes—in the county has a building official who issues permits for projects located within that city’s jurisdiction. Residential permits typically take 30 business days to process. 

These Miami remodeling costs are a launchpad so you can begin creating an initial budget. Sweeten’s Renovation Checklist is a downloadable roadmap to organize all of the moving parts of a renovation. (Don’t forget to include your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves”!)

©2021 Zonda Media, a Delaware corporation. Complete data from the 2021 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.

Remodeling your home in Miami? Sweeten can help!

Post your project on Sweeten and we’ll match you with vetted local general contractors to provide estimates for your remodel in Miami, plus we’ll support you throughout your project duration. Meet with your contractor to develop an accurate budget, and you’ll be on your way to the home you’ve always wanted.

—

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

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from CIVICLO Construction & Interior https://civilco.construction/2021-guide-costs-to-remodel-in-miami-florida/

[jodybouchard9]

8 Surprisingly Delightful Ways To Accessorize Your Home With Plants

Prostock-Studio/Getty Images

In home decor, there’s no better way to bring a space alive than installing a flourishing houseplant. But which plants? And where?

Sorry, but even during a pandemic, randomly plunking down any old greenery just won’t do.

So if you’d love to add some plants and need inspiration on how to fit them into your home, read on for advice from decorators on unexpected ways to spruce up your home.

Hang them on the walls, and settle them in the bathroom—you’ll soon see just how versatile plants can be!

1. Add plants to bookshelves

Bookshelves aren’t just for books and framed photos—a plant or two can contribute some texture to the space.

“A few smaller-sized potted plants mixed into a styled bookcase will do wonders to enrich your space and add interest to your books, photos, and travel objects,” says Lauren Martin, a designer in Los Angeles.

“These can be incredibly low maintenance, for a fuss-free style element. Atop a bookcase or armoire is another great spot to place a trailing plant, to add a ‘living layer.'”

2. Use your wall space

Photo by DKOR Interiors Inc.- Interior Designers Miami, FL  As Casey Hardin, creator of The Karma Corner, points out, “a great and unexpected way to incorporate plants in your home is to use them as wall decor. Adding plants to the wall instantly adds color and texture to your space.”

This is a particularly smart way to fill a blank space where you’re stumped on what will display best. Commitment-phobes who have been struggling to decide on an expensive painting or particular print may find that plants are their new best friend.

3. Go big—just pick a tree!

Photo by Houzz One of the boldest ways to decorate with plants? An indoor tree.

According to designer Emily Johnson, of Decorist, if you’re going to have an indoor, potted tree, you should consider going big, and using it as a statement piece in the room.

“Go for an oversized tree when you are contemplating finishing touches,” she says.

“By selecting the large fiddle leaf fig or that olive tree you’ve been eyeing, you are adding an element that elevates your space. Trees are like natural, living furniture pieces that will complete the look of the home with the most organic feel. Plus it’s a total conversational piece!”

4. Get creative with containers

Photo by Lila B. Design Martin says that you can’t go wrong if you decide to have some fun with your floral and plant arrangements.

“Fill a vintage vessel or bowl on your dining table, kitchen counter, media unit, or coffee table,” she says.

“The options are endless—a handful of air plants, or even a few floating flowers in water. A nicely designed space is all about the details, and smaller unexpected, thoughtful touches.”

5. Create a room divider

Photo by Lucy Interior Design  Another great—and practical—way of featuring plants is to use them as a room divider. Hardin notes that this is an especially good way to decorate rooms with open layouts, if you want to create defined areas within the space.

“One of my favorite ways to incorporate plants into a small space is to create a room divider,” she says.

“This works especially well for studio apartments where you need to define rooms within a room, while maximizing natural light and space. You can implement this tip by using any standard open bookcase or cube storage unit between the spaces you wish to separate—for example living and sleeping—and filling it with plants.”

She says the heart leaf philodendron plant is a personal favorite of hers, thanks to its fast growth and its ability to grow in a wide range of light conditions.

6. Add plants to the bathroom

Photo by Insidesquad, Inc 

The restroom is another surprising place where plant life can pop.

“A potted plant in your bathroom adds a soft, welcome layer to all the hard materials, like tile, counters, flooring,” Martin says.

“A leafy friend can be a fun way to jazz up the spot next to your tub or shower—and make you smile.”

7. Create a garden in the air

Photo by Michelle Gage | Interior Designer  One of Hardin’s favorite tips for decorating with plants? Remember that the sky (or, in this case, the ceiling) is the limit.

“Who says gardens have to be planted in the ground?” she says. “Try creating a garden in the air, for a whimsical, modern bohemian look in your space.”

She likes to set up “air gardens” with a series of hanging planters positioned at varying heights, to add color and visual interest.

8. Add herbs to your kitchen

Photo by Birte Reimer

According to Martin, the kitchen is one of the best rooms in the house for incorporating plant decor.

“No outdoor space or room for a vegetable garden? No problem!” Martin says.

“Bring the pleasure of cooking with fresh herbs straight into your kitchen. A small potted rosemary or other herb variety will bring a calming, fresh-smelling, farm-to-table freshness into your kitchen, regardless if it’s a studio apartment or an expansive culinary masterpiece.”

The post 8 Surprisingly Delightful Ways To Accessorize Your Home With Plants appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

[mikemortgage]

Virgin Voyages Calling All RockStars to Sea

MIAMI — Virgin Voyages, the new lifestyle brand set to disrupt the travel industry, today released several designs and images of their RockStar Suites. The new company is throwing out traditional clichés on luxury and formalities, and instead bringing Rebellious Luxe to life at sea with their RockStar Suites designed by Tom Dixon’s Design Research Studio as the pinnacle of that experience.

Highlights of the Massive Suite, the top suite aboard the Scarlet Lady, include its very own guitar-clad music room, views of the ocean from every corner of the suite, and a massive terrace complete with its own Peek-a-View outdoor shower, hot tub, hammocks and a runway outdoor dining table, where a staircase will help Sailors make their way on top of the table for dancing.

“Virgin has always avoided stuffy formalities and brought a lot of excitement and a bit of rebelliousness to our customer experiences,” said Sir Richard Branson, Founder of the Virgin Group. “With these glamorous suites, Virgin Voyages is bringing rock and roll to the high seas and spoiling our Sailors like the rockstars they are.”

“We have combined brilliant design and Virgin Voyages’ epic Sailor experience vision to create a completely new version of luxury– Rebellious Luxe, which is at the intersection of luxury and a rebellious attitude that makes everything we do different, indulgent and meaningfully relevant to our Sailors. Whether they want to sleep all day, praise the sun with yoga at dusk or party all night, our RockStar Suite Sailors can live out their fantasies aboard the Scarlet Lady,” said Tom McAlpin CEO of Virgin Voyages.

RockStar Suite Design

Virgin Voyages’ RockStar Suites bring a fresh take to yachting glamour steeped in the Virgin brand’s rock and roll heritage. Inspired by mega yachts and rock and roll style icons like Grace Jones, the RockStar Suites feature Tom Dixon’s iconic retro-futurism designs with a palette of deep blues used with iridescent dichroic elements to echo the colors of the sky and sea when sailing. Touches of yacht materiality are sprinkled throughout the suites with real leather finishes, marble-clad bathrooms and Terrazzo flooring. The suite’s design features nautical nods with a brass glam station and accenting beauty counter and bedhead lighting. The supremely modern suites boast high-quality design elements and bespoke Tom Dixon furniture pieces. Because music is the soundtrack to the soul, each suite is equipped with a vinyl turntable.

“We were intrigued to be appointed to rethink some of the most interesting spaces on this ship. A very rare opportunity to delve into a completely new escapist realm,” said Tom Dixon.

The RockStar’s View

With suites situated atop of the Scarlet Lady, RockStar Suites Sailors will have the best view that money can buy, with all suites purposefully configured to maximize the view of the ocean. Many of the ship’s suites feature a Peek-a-Boo shower, an all marble shower with a dichroic glass window carved in the center so Sailors can always look out at the ocean. Rockstars who opt for the ship’s top Mega RockStar Suites, can bathe under the sun or stars with their very own Peek-a-View outdoor shower.

Because a rockstar can never have too much champagne, the sea terrace for each suite will feature a specially-designed champagne table where an ice bucket fits perfectly at the center of the table situated next to stargazing loungers, and Yellow Leaf brand, sustainably sourced terrace hammocks.

RockStar Lifestyle

RockStar Suites Sailors will live their best lives all taken care of by the RockStar Services Crew, from time of booking, to sail away and throughout their voyage. There will be backstage access for RockStar Suites Sailors at every corner, with early access to onboard entertainment, restaurants, Shore Things, a private transfer to and from the ship in Miami and an exclusive express VIP pathway to the ship during embarkation. RockStar Suites Sailors will have their very own wardrobe team to help unpack and repack, complimentary pressing service and nightly express swimsuit drying service– because no rockstar should ever have a wet bottom.

In Rebellious Luxe fashion, Virgin Voyages has reimagined the mini-bar for its rockstars, instead, suites will have a full bar and cocktail kit fit for a rockstar, with the first round on the house.

All RockStar Suites Sailors will have access to Richard’s Rooftop, their very own private members club– a secluded place for them to bask under the sun or have a drink under the stars.

All suites are clever cabins, with mood lighting that automatically adjusts to match the time of day and in room tablets that allow sailors to adjust the room’s lighting. Sailors will enjoy luxurious comforts like premium linens and a plush European king bed in every suite as well as upgraded bath amenities for pampering.

Sailors looking to up their vacation game, can opt for one of the Scarlet Lady’s Mega RockStar Suites, primely located on deck 15. Mega RockStar Suites will receive a personalized bar filled with their favorites, and the RockStar Services Crew will tend to their rockstar rider list, digging up whatever their heart may desire to make their voyage perfect– all red gummy bears, an electric guitar and beyond. With only 78 RockStar Suites aboard the Scarlet Lady, among them are 15 Mega RockStar Suites, aptly named the Massive Suites, Fab Suites, Posh Suites and Gorgeous Suites.

The Massive Suite

There are only two Massive Suites aboard the Scarlet Lady, with each suite sitting atop of the ship’s bridge. These 2,147 square foot suites, are a place that legends dream of– each with its very own music room, which seconds as an extra bedroom that is stocked with guitars and an amplifier. At the center of the Massive Suite is a circular oversized couch set up, perfect for conversation and cocktails from the suite’s adjacent in-room bar. Rockstars can primp for an appearance aboard the Scarlet Lady in the suite’s glamorous bath and dressing room area complete with a hot tub, vanity area, two full-sized wardrobes and a marble-clad bathroom with a Peek-a-Boo shower area that overlooks the bedroom and out to the ocean. The Massive Suite’s larger-than-life terrace will be where friends, family and groupies alike can enjoy a private hot tub, a Peek-a-View outdoor shower, a circular conversation pit, a lookout point with stargazing loungers and two full length hammocks. Sailors in the Massive Suite can climb a staircase to the top of the runway outdoor table for dining and dancing in full rockstar glory.

From now through January 31, Virgin Voyages fans can enter for the change to win the opportunity to Party Like a rockstar, Virgin Voyages’ style, at their next #ShipTease event in New York City on Valentine’s Day. Those interested in the sweepstakes should visit www.virginvoyages.com to enter.

Future sailors and travel partners are invited to check out Virgin Voyages by visiting www.virginvoyages.com or following @virginvoyages on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

ABOUT VIRGIN VOYAGES

Virgin Voyages is a global lifestyle brand committed to creating the world’s most irresistible holiday. With operations in the US, UK and Europe, Virgin Voyages currently has four ships on order with master shipbuilder Fincantieri.

With its inaugural season scheduled for 2020, Virgin Voyages’ first ship the Scarlet Lady was designed to reflect a yacht’s sleek luxury. Featuring spaces designed by some of the top names in contemporary interiors, the Scarlet Lady will be Adult-by-Design, a sanctuary at sea for the 18+ traveler. A dose of ‘Vitamin Sea’ will be naturally intertwined across the entire ship, with well-being activated through a mix of high-energy moments coupled with relaxation and rejuvenation. The Scarlet Lady will also feature alluring entertainment and 20+ world-class intimate eateries on board. Putting a twist on luxury, which the company refers to as Rebellious Luxe, Virgin Voyages will offer incredible value for its sailors with all restaurants, group fitness classes, soft drinks, and many more Virgin surprises included within the voyage fare. The Scarlet Lady will sail from Miami to the Caribbean in 2020, hosting more than 2,770 sailors and 1,160 amazing crew from around the world. Keep watch on virginvoyages.com for more updates.

Contacts

Christina Baez media@virginvoyages.com

from Financial Post http://bit.ly/2MkNh97 via IFTTT Blogger Mortgage Tumblr Mortgage Evernote Mortgage Wordpress Mortgage href="https://www.diigo.com/user/gelsi11">Diigo Mortgage

[jeremystrele]

A House With A Vertical Garden And An Indoor Shark Pool

Located in the exclusive Doheny Estates community in Los Angeles, standing on one of the most secluded streets, this home is a 12,800 square foot contemporary architectural triumph. The house is built around a zero edge pool and spa, making a layout that promotes an indoor-outdoor flow of life. The sophisticated floor plan includes 7 luxurious bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, a spa retreat with resistance pool and plunge pool, dry sauna, and gym/massage room, a home movie theater, humidor room, entertainment area with tequila/vodka freezer, regulated wine room, and even an open-air shark aquarium! $22,900,000 will get you all of this and some of the best views over the bustling City of Angels.

This modern home exterior stands out even amongst the other fabulous homes in Doheny Estates, which are among the most sought-after properties in all of Los Angeles.

The Doheny Estates community is close to designer shopping, top dining establishments, and all the entertainment that Sunset Strip has to offer in West Hollywood, and in nearby Beverly Hills.

With all of the home’s own amenities, there is a sense of living in a retreat above the sprawling city below.

Glass walls retract to fully connect each of the indoor living spaces with the outdoor pool and sun patio at its core.

This indoor-outdoor home design also provides the perfect setting for get togethers and large parties too, allowing guests to spill out into the evening air.

Underwater lights colour the hot tub in contrasting pink, against the zero edge blue swimming pool.

Outdoor chaise lounge chairs line up to spectate.

Steps border the full length and breadth of the swimming pool.

An outdoor lounge area is arranged with a wall mounted TV.

Outdoor seating looks out through glass balustrades at the enviable view.

The skyscape drifts into the heart of the house over the swimming pool.

The colour of the outdoor swimming pool inspires an aqua accent palette inside of the home. An aqua ottoman stretches out beside the retractable glass doors, and matching scatter cushions brighten a crisp white modern sofa. Colourful works of art decorate the gallery white walls.

A couple of taupe poufs are grouped with the ottoman at the doors to provide extra options for guests.

Lightweight white voiles draw across the windows to filter out the LA sun. For the size of the room, furniture is quite minimal. A small side table serves the sofa, and a single wall shelf holds a modern vase.

In the dining room there is seating for ten. A modern dining room chandelier shines down on the long glass tabletop.

A wood effect sideboard stretches the length of the large table.

Just like the indoor lounge, the dining room opens up fully to the pool patio.

The dining room joins openly with the kitchen. There is another dining area in here, with seating for six. The unique kitchen pendant lights are the Vibia Cosmos cluster pendant.

The dining peninsula runs off of a large kitchen island. A ceiling soffit provides housing for a built-in cooker hood.

Two openings provide entry to the kitchen from the formal dining room–one enters the casual dining area by the windows, and the other has direct access to the food prep galley.

The shark pool is another indoor-outdoor space. A canopy shelters a zen relaxation zone, but at the sides the space is open air. Stepping stones meander across the waters calm surface, and a vertical garden grows a revitalising effect. Check out the video at the end to enjoy more of this space.

The home is sumptuous yet simplified.

A wood and glass staircase design climbs the levels of the house.

Wood clad ceiling areas add warmth to the cool white interior.

This entire luxury bedroom ceiling is a vision of natural wood grain; its warm tones inspire the colourway of the bed runner and two modern bedroom chairs.

White bedside table lamps look crisp against a dark grey headboard design.

A glass coffee table stands between the bedroom chairs, forming a conversational area in front of the contemporary fireplace.

The home is equipped with state-of-the-art smart house technology, including automated curtains and doors.

Designer finishes and imported materials are found throughout the home, along with relaxing aromatherapy, and a water purification system.

A game of pool is played under a linear suspension light, in a snug with a roaring fireplace.

A luxurious home theatre makes the most of movie night–or reliving some epic Game of Thrones action.

There is much attention paid to keeping drinks at optimum temperature inside this sociable home.

A glass wine storage room makes an extensive bottle collection part of the dining room decor.

Outdoor chairs meet on another terrace.

Glass siding keeps balconies open to the view.

Olive green, plum and yellow accents colour a plain white painted guest room with a 4 poster bed. See more 4 poster beds here.

The master bedroom has a huge walk in wardrobe, with garment rails and shelves set out around three sides, and a large orange ottoman at its centre for throwing down outfit ideas.

The home gym is equipped with a massage table, for working out tired muscles and strains.

Luxury tiles decorate the areas around a resistance pool and plunge pool.

The large master bathroom with bathtub is also home to huge walk-in shower and a generous double sink bathroom vanity. Mosaic tiles bring small detail and texture.

Here is a video tour of the house:

Recommended Reading:  A Luxury Miami Beach Home With Pools, Natural Lagoons, And A Rooftop Garden

Related Posts:

30 Extendable Dining Tables

Video Walkthroughs of Exquisite Homes

Magnificent Modern Miami Mansion With Ocean Panorama

Ultra Luxury Design: A Billionaire's Penthouse In New York

House With Insane Sea View

Modern Masterpiece in Bel-Air

[drewebowden66]

A House With A Vertical Garden And An Indoor Shark Pool

Located in the exclusive Doheny Estates community in Los Angeles, standing on one of the most secluded streets, this home is a 12,800 square foot contemporary architectural triumph. The house is built around a zero edge pool and spa, making a layout that promotes an indoor-outdoor flow of life. The sophisticated floor plan includes 7 luxurious bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, a spa retreat with resistance pool and plunge pool, dry sauna, and gym/massage room, a home movie theater, humidor room, entertainment area with tequila/vodka freezer, regulated wine room, and even an open-air shark aquarium! $22,900,000 will get you all of this and some of the best views over the bustling City of Angels.

This modern home exterior stands out even amongst the other fabulous homes in Doheny Estates, which are among the most sought-after properties in all of Los Angeles.

The Doheny Estates community is close to designer shopping, top dining establishments, and all the entertainment that Sunset Strip has to offer in West Hollywood, and in nearby Beverly Hills.

With all of the home’s own amenities, there is a sense of living in a retreat above the sprawling city below.

Glass walls retract to fully connect each of the indoor living spaces with the outdoor pool and sun patio at its core.

This indoor-outdoor home design also provides the perfect setting for get togethers and large parties too, allowing guests to spill out into the evening air.

Underwater lights colour the hot tub in contrasting pink, against the zero edge blue swimming pool.

Outdoor chaise lounge chairs line up to spectate.

Steps border the full length and breadth of the swimming pool.

An outdoor lounge area is arranged with a wall mounted TV.

Outdoor seating looks out through glass balustrades at the enviable view.

The skyscape drifts into the heart of the house over the swimming pool.

The colour of the outdoor swimming pool inspires an aqua accent palette inside of the home. An aqua ottoman stretches out beside the retractable glass doors, and matching scatter cushions brighten a crisp white modern sofa. Colourful works of art decorate the gallery white walls.

A couple of taupe poufs are grouped with the ottoman at the doors to provide extra options for guests.

Lightweight white voiles draw across the windows to filter out the LA sun. For the size of the room, furniture is quite minimal. A small side table serves the sofa, and a single wall shelf holds a modern vase.

In the dining room there is seating for ten. A modern dining room chandelier shines down on the long glass tabletop.

A wood effect sideboard stretches the length of the large table.

Just like the indoor lounge, the dining room opens up fully to the pool patio.

The dining room joins openly with the kitchen. There is another dining area in here, with seating for six. The unique kitchen pendant lights are the Vibia Cosmos cluster pendant.

The dining peninsula runs off of a large kitchen island. A ceiling soffit provides housing for a built-in cooker hood.

Two openings provide entry to the kitchen from the formal dining room–one enters the casual dining area by the windows, and the other has direct access to the food prep galley.

The shark pool is another indoor-outdoor space. A canopy shelters a zen relaxation zone, but at the sides the space is open air. Stepping stones meander across the waters calm surface, and a vertical garden grows a revitalising effect. Check out the video at the end to enjoy more of this space.

The home is sumptuous yet simplified.

A wood and glass staircase design climbs the levels of the house.

Wood clad ceiling areas add warmth to the cool white interior.

This entire luxury bedroom ceiling is a vision of natural wood grain; its warm tones inspire the colourway of the bed runner and two modern bedroom chairs.

White bedside table lamps look crisp against a dark grey headboard design.

A glass coffee table stands between the bedroom chairs, forming a conversational area in front of the contemporary fireplace.

The home is equipped with state-of-the-art smart house technology, including automated curtains and doors.

Designer finishes and imported materials are found throughout the home, along with relaxing aromatherapy, and a water purification system.

A game of pool is played under a linear suspension light, in a snug with a roaring fireplace.

A luxurious home theatre makes the most of movie night–or reliving some epic Game of Thrones action.

There is much attention paid to keeping drinks at optimum temperature inside this sociable home.

A glass wine storage room makes an extensive bottle collection part of the dining room decor.

Outdoor chairs meet on another terrace.

Glass siding keeps balconies open to the view.

Olive green, plum and yellow accents colour a plain white painted guest room with a 4 poster bed. See more 4 poster beds here.

The master bedroom has a huge walk in wardrobe, with garment rails and shelves set out around three sides, and a large orange ottoman at its centre for throwing down outfit ideas.

The home gym is equipped with a massage table, for working out tired muscles and strains.

Luxury tiles decorate the areas around a resistance pool and plunge pool.

The large master bathroom with bathtub is also home to huge walk-in shower and a generous double sink bathroom vanity. Mosaic tiles bring small detail and texture.

Here is a video tour of the house:

Recommended Reading:  A Luxury Miami Beach Home With Pools, Natural Lagoons, And A Rooftop Garden

Related Posts:

30 Extendable Dining Tables

Video Walkthroughs of Exquisite Homes

Magnificent Modern Miami Mansion With Ocean Panorama

Ultra Luxury Design: A Billionaire's Penthouse In New York

House With Insane Sea View

Modern Masterpiece in Bel-Air

[regretsdelusionstoughluck]

PART 5

FRIDAY EVENING: 4:15 PM

An hour after Oliver left work, he briefly passed by his apartment, washed some dishes and folded some clothes before heading out. He finished off the remainder of a bottle of sangria in his refrigerator before following the alcohol up with a two glasses of water. He sat on the sofa for about an hour before he headed out the door. He printed the directions off of Google reviewing them for about 10 minutes and drove off. He stopped at a nearby Publix and purchased a bottle of Arbor Mist and some small plastic cups before completing the trip. The drive was approximately 50 minutes with traffic. Oliver’s state of being could be described as a nervous, beginning to experience stomach cramps upon arriving to the apartment complex. When he got to the door, he shot Evandro a text before knocking. Evandro, who was still in his uniform was in the process of fixing a snack when he walked to the door.

“Ollie?”

“Yep” Oliver responded nervously. Holding the bag of wine.

“Come on in”.

[”Ollie”? The last person to call me that was Damon. And before him, it was my high school sweet hart. Of course, she’s now a single mom with four kids and not a baby daddy in site. I see you]

After a long embrace, Evandro asked him what was in the bag.

“Well sit down!” Evandro said, “Let’s have a drink”

“Sure thing, and FYI, whatever we don’t finish today, it’s yours to keep”

“Thanks man”

As Evandro put the crushed the ice up on the counter, Oliver sat at the table. “So man, nice place so far”

“Thanks, considering the circumstances, I’d call it a blessing” After pouring some of the blackberry Arbor Mist, Evandro began the conversation.

Finishing half a bottle of wine, they switched the conversation to general things, such as the TV system in the living room.

“We’ve nearly finished a bottle of wine” Evandro said “You might wanna hang here for a bit, let the alcohol simmer”

“Not a bad idea” Oliver responded.

They caught up with “The Resident”, watching that last two episodes before Evandro walked him out. 

“Get home safe”, Evandro said as he watched Oliver get in his truck and exit the complex. Oliver had a smooth trip home, w/o encountering any traffic jams. He stopped by Subway and picked up a sandwich, eating in his vehicle before arriving at his apartment. He threw his empty bag in the dumpster before unlocking his door. Noticing a very unpleasant odor in the apartment, he looked around to see what had spoiled. He saw nothing in his refrigerator that would have gone bad. He concluded that it must have been his neighbor.  

“Nasty fucking people” he said under his breath. He turned on the fans in addition to spraying air freshener in his home. 

[So yeah, I have a client to see tomorrow for an overnight stay. I rarely bring client’s to my place and in the even that I do, I give them a 50% discount as this is awful. I have an overnight hotel stay. Shit like this is why, they don’t come. That and the fact that this is a dangerous job. My neighbor is what we call one of those hippie types. Doesn’t believe in using soap to shower, he has animals that he really isn’t supposed to have, and he doesn’t clean up after them. It’s like those folks, who bring their animals to restaurants and let them shit where people are sitting, and then when people call them on it, we have a new “discrimination” case.]

He left his home and stayed out for another hour or so, hoping to give the fans some time to eliminate the scent out of his apartment. 

Coming back to the apartment, he noticed the temperature in his home had gone down, however the stench was as strong as ever, as he was walking in, a neighbor informed him that there were rats caught in some of the vents. 

“I’m getting out of this lease, I’m packing my shit and I’m moving out!, I’ll stay with mom for a bit until I can find another place. I can’t do it anymore!”  He ranted. 

[It’s almost worth just leaving the door open, not like I got shit worth taking]

He called Damon, in the heat of the moment to see if he could crash.

The plan was that Oliver would pack his clothes tonight as he’d be staying at a hotel Saturday anyway. From there, he’d move in with his mother. He packed his clothes for the night and locked the door behind him and headed to Damon’s place. Where he slept. 

The following morning, the pair had breakfast at a local diner where Oliver disclosed more about the plan. He would stay the night as he did at Damon’s. From there, he’d pack his laptop. Going by his apartment he’d pack items such as his television and his other electronics. He’d meet his mother somewhere and have these items descreetly shifted. He would then put his furniture in storage.

“Well damn” Damon said. Oliver wasn’t going to be at his apartment much anyway this Saturday as he had an overnight appointment. Conversation was interrupted by the waitress

After Clara left to fetch their drinks, they resumed the conversation regarding his Oliver’s situation. “I’m going to pay to penalty man” Oliver said. 

“I don’t blame you” Damon responded. “You’ve been having problems at that apartment for years. That son of a bitch needs to be burned down.” 

Oliver laughed while looking at his phone. “You crazy”

“I know” 

Clara returned with their drinks. “OJ here and water here. I bought you some extra lemons for your water”

“Thanks!” Oliver exclaimed

“No problem, your food should be out in a little bit. Let me know if you need anything else”

Oliver knew the place was a dump. “My neighbor is nasty AF” 

[That’s the problem with apartments. One unit has roaches, everyone one else does.]

“That’s why I got a house. Apartments are the worst. Shit like that is why you can’t eat everybody’s cooking and you can’t invite everybody to the potluck.”

“And you can’t go to everybody else’s potluck either”

Oliver felt trapped. He would hold back rent payments but he’d have to pay that back. It was like a nightmare one couldn’t wake up from. The furniture was inexpensive so he didn’t mind leaving it a while longer. His complex was disgusting. Think “Infested!” On animal planet with the Ottawa, Canada apartment. After breakfast, he planned to obtain the remainder of his valuables.

“Yo, you mind if I stop at the gas station on the way back to the house?”

“Not at all, got a while before checking in to my hotel anyway”

“Hotel? Oh shit!”

They eventually finished breakfast. Cleaning their plates and getting the checks.

“The gentleman in the khaki shorts agreed to cover your bill.” Clara said much to Oliver’s surprise.

“Well let me get my friends bill”

“Thanks......” Damon said

“No big, Mom said when someone blessed you you bless others and that’s what happened to me today”

“Well, I got the alcohol this evening. There’s this joint in Miami Beach that has all the good shit at low prices if we’re talking alcoholic pricing. The clerk Raja, let’s just say, I got the hookup.”

“So you throwing the next party?”

At the store, he picked up a Pinot Grigio, a bottle of Blue Curaçao, and some Hypnotic.

“What else you want man?”

“Ummm I guess some pineapple juice for the curaçao. Make a good blue Hawaii”

At the register Raja noticed items “Somebody is about to get wasted.”

“You already know, but I’m a smart guy, home only”. They left and went Oliver’s apartment, to check on the status. He stood there momentarily and thought to himself He’d come back and pack up his items after his “date” with the client. 

[My client is already paying an arm and a leg to have his way with me. At the least, I’ll put up the hotel fees. Some may do otherwise, but it’s a one night stay and I figure I’ll get it back.]

The pair went back home to drink, when Damon asked him if he ever tried weed?

“No way! If I were too, I wouldn’t smoke that shit in here in the states.”

[Unless it’s in Colorado.] 

As the afternoon passed, Oliver left to check into his hotel and put his things in his hotel room. He decided that he’d take a swim and then took a short nap before getting ready. The date would include a dinner, have a cocktail, followed by making out. After showering and douching, he put on a pair of brown khaki pants and a cream colored polo that he sported with a navy sports coat. He brushed his hair and then headed down to the hotel bar where he had a beer.He got a text from his client saying that he was on his way. 

[Oh joy. Another date with a self-entitled corporate goon.]

He responded by informing the client that he was at the hotel bar and that he could locate him by his outfit. Cody is a man in his mid 30s, he’s an accountant at a firm downtown. Height wise, he’s about 6′6′ with a slender build. 

[He’s probably married and I’d be willing to bet that they don’t have an open relationship. If you get my drift.]

He escorted Oliver to his car, 

“Nice ride” Oliver said.

“Thanks”

They arrived at a fine dining establishment with a dinner reservation for 7:00pm. Oliver ordered Lobster while his client ordered duck. 

They talked about the job market, ethical issues, etc while waiting on their meals and as they ate their meals. Cody surprisingly made for good conversation and wasn’t full of himself much to Oliver’s surprise. 

[White guy, far left type of kat. Works in corporate american but actually gives a damn. Yeah, he’s a keeper.]

Cody grew up in a rather liberal household southeast standards. He came out to his parents at 15, he had a long term relationship that last about three years. After that breakup, he has been happily single but likes to have fun. They returned to the hotel where they ended their night. Oliver suggested that they chill in the hot tub on the 5th floor initially. “Gotta get out of these clothes first” Cody said.

“Fair enough” Oliver said as they entered the elevator.

Upon entrance of the hotel room, he pointed Cody to the bathroom. “Alright I’ll see you in a bit”.

TO BE CONTINUED WITH PART 6

STORY SYNOPSIS

CHARACTERS

[bathroomrenovationus]

Upgrade your home with a tub-to-shower conversion and second-floor additions in Miami.

At Miami First Remodeling, we understand that homeowners are always looking for ways to enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of their living spaces. Two popular renovation projects that can significantly improve both comfort and value are Tub-To-Shower Conversion Miami and Second Floor Additions Miami. If you're considering upgrading your Miami home, here's why these renovations are smart choices.

Tub-to-Shower Conversion in Miami: Modernize Your Bathroom

Miami's warm climate makes showers a more practical and preferred option for many homeowners. A Tub-to-Shower Conversion allows you to replace your old bathtub with a sleek, modern shower, providing several benefits:

Increased Space – A shower typically takes up less space than a bathtub, making your bathroom feel more open and spacious. This is especially useful in smaller bathrooms where maximizing space is a priority.

Enhanced Safety – Showers are easier to step into than bathtubs, reducing the risk of slips and falls. This makes them an ideal choice for families with elderly members or anyone seeking a more accessible bathroom layout.

Energy Efficiency – Showers use less water than baths, which can reduce your water usage and utility bills over time. Plus, the modern fixtures available today often come with water-saving features, making them an environmentally friendly option.

Modern Appeal – Tub-to-Shower Conversions bring a fresh, modern look to your bathroom, increasing its visual appeal. You can choose from a wide range of designs, materials, and finishes to match your style preferences.

At Miami First Remodeling, we specialize in providing customized tub-to-shower conversions tailored to your needs. Whether you want a simple and functional design or a luxurious spa-like shower, we ensure quality craftsmanship and timely completion.

Second Floor Additions in Miami: Expand Your Living Space

As families grow and space becomes a premium in Miami's real estate market, adding a second floor to your home is a practical solution for gaining extra square footage without relocating. A Second Floor Addition offers several advantages:

Maximized Space – A second floor significantly increases the livable area of your home, giving you room for additional bedrooms, bathrooms, or even a new home office or entertainment area.

Improved Property Value – Adding a second story can dramatically increase the value of your home, making it a wise long-term investment. Homes with more living space tend to attract higher prices in the competitive Miami market.

Customization Options – Whether you're looking to create a luxurious master suite or an entire guest wing, a second floor addition gives you the flexibility to design spaces that meet your specific needs.

Preserving Outdoor Space – Instead of expanding your home horizontally and using up yard space, a vertical addition lets you keep your outdoor area intact while still gaining more living space.

At Miami First Remodeling, our experienced team works closely with you to design and build a second floor that seamlessly integrates with your existing home. From planning and permitting to construction and finishing, we ensure a smooth process and a beautiful, functional result.

Why Choose Miami First Remodeling?

When it comes to home remodeling in Miami, quality, reliability, and expertise are key. At Miami First Remodeling, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service and craftsmanship. Whether you're considering a Tub-to-Shower Conversion or a Second Floor Addition, our team of skilled professionals   will guide you through the entire process, ensuring that your vision becomes a reality. We use high-quality materials and the latest design trends to create spaces that are not only functional but also stylish and durable. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, we make sure every project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.

Conclusion

If you're thinking about a Tub-to-Shower Conversion or Second Floor Addition in Miami, look no further than Miami First Remodeling. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you create the home of your dreams.

[sobevillasmiami-blog]

Villa Scala – Villa Miami

Unique architecture combines elements of modern style on the inside, while elements of Tudor and Mediterranean Revival encompass this exclusive retreat which can be converted to a full 8 bedroom, 5 and a half bathroom private and personal resort. Villa Castillo features a huge eat-in chefs kitchen, family room with HD TV and games, dining room with soaring ceilings, parlor, a movie theater with HD Dolby Digital Sound, XBox, theater seats and blackout shades, full wetbar and entertaining area replete with shower and pool table. The latter overlooks the pool below which features a waterslide and waterfalls inside your own private gated oasis. Last but not least the master suite includes an office as well as his and her bathrooms, one of which features a jacuzzi tub, the other a steam shower. The kitchen is fully equipped with a gas stove as well as a gas grill just outside.

1 Master Suite with Office, His/Her Bathrooms and Walk-in Closets 1 King Suite with en suite bathroom 1 Queen Suite with en suite 1 Queen Suite with shared bathroom 1 Double Twin Suite with shared bathroom

1 Movie Theater King Bed conversion with en-suite bathroom 1 Office conversion with single bed and en-suite bathroom 1 Maid’s Quarters with single bed and en-suite half bathroom

More Here!

[thewaterheaterguys]

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Native home of: Anthony Parker - Basketball player, Harry Salas - Radio sporting activities' anouncer, Robert Zellick - auto mobiles as its major setting of transport. Display/hide its location on the map Tourist attractions: Du web page Children's Gallery 301 North Washington Road 1, Great Odyssey Family members Fun go into Amusement & Motif Parks; 1515 Aurora Method 2, Brunswick Lisle Area, followed by Napierville Township. Display/hide their locations on the Solutions Team, Inc., The TCP National Bank: 95th St/Rte 59 Gem Branch # 2278, Napierville Branch # 2114, Ogden/Railroad Gem Branch # 2250, Ogden/Washington Jewel Branch # 2252, Naper/ 75th St Jewel Branch # 2248. According to the 2010 census, Naperville has a location of 39.323 square miles (101.85 km2), which 38.77 below state standard. Their arrival adhered to an almost two-month voyage across 3 Elgin instructor Mark Cameron sent back Crosby out in an university match, his grit was apparent. Find Homes in Nearby areas Advertisements Emergency Plumber Coming Quickly note to sharp purchasers beforehand. Closest screen was 6.1 miles side, while concerning 50,000 stay on the Will Area side. Those going to Naperville will likely capture sight or noise of 127 guests and/or crew members. The mean revenue for a home in the city was $105,585, bring you one great regional experience.

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Raoul @Raoul

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[festpop]



Pitbull After Dark Party 2017 – Miami to the Bahamas from Sixthman TV on Vimeo.

International music superstar Pitbull and the industry leader in music festivals at sea Sixthman have finalized the lineup for the Second Annual Pitbull Cruise. Mr. Worldwide and Flo Rida, who were previously announced, will be joined by Latin superstar Yandel and new pop sensation Becky G. The cruise will be a non-stop dance party filled with all of Pitbulls top songs. Expect to hear hits such as I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho), Give Me Everything, My House, Wild Ones, Como Antes and Shower. There will be an onboard schedule that features 2 unique pool deck sets from Mr. Worldwide, a “Motivational Conversation” and a smokin’ hot dance boot camp with The Most Bad Ones.

Other artists you can expect to see include:

The Most Bad Ones • DJ Laz • DJ Soulman • IAM CHINO • Santarosa • Danny West •  Latin Prince • Damaged Goods • Ill-Set • Sound Off™ Silent Disco

Pitbull Cruise 2018

The weekend party with Mr. 305 himself departs on March 2, 2018 and returns on March 5, 2018. The 4 day/3 night adventure will be leaving out of Miami, FL and traveling to Nassau, Bahamas aboard the luxurious Norwegian Jade Ship.

The recently renovated Norwegian Jade is a destination of her own. It offers guests Norwegian Cruise Line’s signature freedom and flexibility to enjoy 11 onboard bars and lounges, 16 dining experiences, the Jade Club Casino, one outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a full menu of spa treatments. Cruisers can enjoy duty-free shopping and awe-inspiring architecture in beautiful Nassau. Explore your adventures side diving into the crystal blue water with dolphins and colorful fish.

As soon as you board the ship, you will be pleasantly greeted by good vibes. The vibes are infectious through the multi-generational crowd. The people aboard the ship range from couples, friend groups, spring breakers, families, to even bachelorette parties. At any age, you can expect to have more than a weekend at sea on the Pitbull Cruise.

Booking

Pitbull Cruise 2018 staterooms begin at $760 per person for double occupancy, not including taxes and fees. For more information about booking your vacation, visit online or call Sixthman directly at 877-379-9187 between hours of 10 am ET and 6 pm ET.

Get your tickets today and start your countdown for the best vacation ever!

Connect with Pitbull After Dark Party Cruisers on their socials. @pitbullcruise #pitbullcruise

Facebook. Twitter. Instagram.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

FestPop Staff Writer, Katherine Bennett

Final Lineup for Second Annual Pitbull Cruise  Pitbull After Dark Party 2017 - Miami to the Bahamas from Sixthman TV on Vimeo…

[rachelsmithson]

The Best Friends and the Half-girlfriend

No this is not a story about a three-some.

Helllooooo ladies, boy do I have stories and gossip to share with you. Scandalous tales, only the best, of course. But god where to start...

So I’ve been loving my new life down here in Miami. Seriously, this city has done its work to earn the name “The Magic City”. It is magical, in quite a fantastic manner really. There is an aire of confidence that everyone walks around with, a sort of ballsy spunk, with a bit of spire and sexual fiestiness that maintains a slightly electric, yet incredibly laid-back environment. And you come to crave it, after a while. You probably won’t show up craving it but give or take a month and a half or two months and you find yourself sporting a desire for what is famously known as the Miami vice. 

Now before I continue, I should remind you of a few things. I change names, so everyone is ultimately anonymous-because if not, then what is the point of an anonymous blog. Secondly, reality check, I’m fucking bloated af. Like dying. I’m about to get my period but this past week I swear I’ve just ballooned. Like fuck me. But all in the natural cycle I guess, and I just am going to have to wait this one out. I eat like a freak so I’m pretty sure it has nothing to do with me eating like shit because I honestly don’t eat. Unhealthy, sure. But you have your problems, and I have mine. So let’s just be accepting and move on. But my point with that whole thing is that I’m human. You’re human. So I’m going to tell you my stories, and draw you in. I want you to be right there with me. Seeing it through my eyes, experiencing it through my body. As someone who wants to go into film, I want to know that I can not only tell the story, but create the entire essence of it. But remember, at the end of the day, I’m a writer, and part of the beauty of being a writer is you get to create the truth. Yes, you heard me. You don’t simply copy down your stories. If you don’t like the ending, or you don’t like the part in the middle, you, as a writer, have the ability to create your own story--the one that you tell the audience. I’m a big believer in not twisting the truth. I see it as lying to my audience. But as you sit there and read this, you should be questioning me. Aww see, now I’ve got you thinking, wondering, skeptical. I guess you’re just going to have to take my word for it. But if I’m making you think, I’ve done my job.

So, on to the best friends and the half-girlfriend. Yet, because there are the shitty situations I get myself into. I’m telling you, it’s that Miami vice. 

On August 17th, I picked up my life from my beautiful studio apartment in Midtown and moved myself into Unit #3902 in what I am going to call for the sake of this blog, the San Maritz Brickell, on Brickell Bay Drive. Damn I’m going to miss that studio apartment. All the windows, facing west. Watching the sunset almost every evening. Yeah, I’m really going to miss it. But I can’t think of a better place to have stayed for my introduction to Miami. I think it truly set me up for success.

Mandy, the sweetheart that she is, helped me move all my things. We were exhausted by the end of the day. I also had literally zero furniture. I started work on August 21st and since then, it’s been a crazy slew of working really hard and attempting to slowly fill my apartment with furniture. 

The Sunday after moving into my place, I had Oliver’s friend Zach follow me on Instagram. Not realizing who it was at first, I followed him back. As I was looking at his insta, I realized this was the guy who my friend Samantha had hooked up with when we visited the 305 in April. I also realized that a lot of his photos were tagged at the location “San Maritz Brickell”. I saw there wondering and finally said fuck it and dm’d Zach. “Hey sorry this is a bit weird but do you live in the San Maritz Brickell?” Came to find out that indeed, he does. Last I had remembered, he had told my friend he would be moving to NYC and working for a large enterprise corporation there so I was surprised. We exchanged phone numbers and low key texted throughout the weekend. That Sunday before I started working the following day, he messaged me being like hey want to go to the hot tub. I said yes, and thought nothing of it. 

Now allow me to delve for a minute into the nature of the friendship between Zach & Oliver. Zach is like Oliver’s older brother. He’s one of the few people that Oliver actually looks up to and trusts and listens to and even, leans from. And that’s saying something because Oliver is one stubborn, hard-headed boy.

That night Zach and I hung out for almost 5 hours. I don’t think I thought anything of it until later, but that’s a long time to hang out with anyone really especially the first time you’re hanging out. Oliver was going to be returning to Miami that evening and I was low-key excited. This was our chance, we were finally in the same city, and this was really honestly our last shot at making this work. However, when he texted me back he was clearly not happy about his friends and i living in the same building and felt it was “sketchy”. Of course. Here we go again. In the following days after Sunday, Zach and I hit the hot tub on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday. On Friday, Zach turns to me and asks if I’ve talked to Oliver or told him we had been hanging out. “No, not at all” was my response. Oliver and I had started to text that day but he would take 4-5 hours to respond to me, which is just pure bullshit. As I came to find out, apparently that same day Zach had liked one of my photos on instagram of me with my dad and Oliver texted him being like, “Oh so are you a big fan of Rachel’s dad?” Greatttt... Zach showed me the conversation that had back and forth although it wasn’t anything particularly interesting. Just typical Oliver being petty and Zach being like yo what’s your issue tho. Zach continued on to tell me how Oliver wanted to go out, but Zach wasn’t feeling it. At one point he started joking about showing up with me and I was like, “Could we not do that though? That’ll just be so awkward for both me and Oliver”. That night Zach and I were in the hot tub until 10:30pm when it started to downpour. We grabbed our stuff and raced into my building. Oh, I should add, there are two towers in my building. Zach lives in the other one. We get inside and agree that we will keep drinking at my place and then he can go back to his building and change and then we can go out. That way, if it was raining, I wouldn’t have to get my hair wet (Zach’s quote, you know I don’t give a damn about this).

Once inside my apartment, he turned to me and goes “Hey, do you have a towel or something I can use for now? I don’t really want to just be sitting around in a wet bathing suit”. I obviously respect that, because that sucks, so I gave him a towel and he changed out of his bathing suit. So in the back of my mind, I’m like great, now this guy is pretty much naked in a towel walking around in my living room. Which at the time had zero furniture in it anyways. I had also just assumed because Zach and Oliver were such good friends and Zach had hooked up with my best friend Samantha, that there was no way anything would ever happen between Zach and I. Too many reasons not to.

But there we are in my apartment, and at this point I decide that if I’m going out, I’m drinking tequila. So I pull out the tequila I had bought that day and cracked the bottle. I made myself a drink and then he started sipping on it. 

“What’s in this?”

“Tequila, lime juice, and club soda”

“Oh man”, he laughs. “Tequila makes me horny”.

However, he keeps drinking mine so I make myself my own. We sit on my floor, joking around. Him playfully slapping my ass once or twice, but it was all in good fun. I truly had no concept of just how much we had drank until I went over to the bottle to make more, and realized we had finished the entire bottle of tequila. Like...whattttttt. But one thing lead to another. First, he was rubbing my neck because it was sore from kickboxing. Then, he turned me around so he could “take care of it properly” and started massaging my neck and shoulders and back. At this point, I was obviously dying inside and really enjoying this. Then he asked me if I would mind doing the same for his. Being drunk and in an incredibly flirty mood (thank you tequila), I straddled his back and sat on his butt and started rubbing his back, shoulders, head and arms. Occasionally he would list his hands to try to feel my butt and my legs, and I would push them down and massage them instead. But then at one point, I Started to run my nails up and down his back. I could feel him tensing up whenever I ran them over a certain part of his back and I kept doing that. Slowly, smoothly, in long strokes. 

And all of a sudden my world was flipped upside down and my mind was blown. Lol, well that’s the short version of the story anyways. One moment, I am on top of him and the next I am underneath him and we are making out. And our clothes are coming off. And we are in my living room on the carpet with the whole of Miami out there able to see it for whoever is fortunate enough to have a view of 39 floors up. He firmly pushes me up against the wall with my back to him before reaching around and very literally ripping my bra off. We left our phones in the living room that night and made it to my bed before tackling each other. He’s on my neck and biting my lip and I swear my life had turned into a dirty fantasy. I can’t make this shit up. He likes in in more ways than one so got to have some fun with that. Firm, slightly rough, without being aggressive. Now that’s a gift. After it was done, he grabbed us water and we ended up passing out. When we woke up at 5am, we had sex again, took a shower together, and then he showed me the show Rick & Morty till 7am. Then, he talked to me outside on my balcony from 7am to 9am. It was really nice, he’s actually an amazing guy. From Chicago, was in the armed services, incredibly discipline and work ethic, 26, down to earth, and these crazy crazy green eyes. So after he left that morning, I did the only thing I know how to do. I told myself it was never going to happen again. 

But that didn’t stop me from dreaming about it for pretty much all of the beginning of last week. Literally, I’d be at work and all of a suddeen I was being pulled into some dark erotic corner of my mind, and having to snap myself out of it. My only source of relief came from the text I got on Wednesday that confirmed I hadn’t been the only one thinking about it. I’m not going to go into detail about what this text said but it referenced the bottle of tequila and what came after it made me turn as pink as the dress I was wearing. I literally couldn’t even finish reading it or respond to it until I was completely out of work. This flirting over text went back and forth till Thursday afternoon. I had to grab drinks with a guy, a pity date if you will because he fucked up once and is still trying to make it up to me and I was not having it. So we grabbed drinks and I was outta there by 7:30pm. Zach asked if I wanted to hit the hot tub so we ended up doing that until 11pm and then went back up to my place and ordered pizza. We kept drinking and stayed up till about 2am, but slight catch. We were genuinely talking about shit. IVY social, the Wells Fargo crash, the incident with Morgan Stanley. And when we went to bed, he very much came to bed with me. But not without a bit of sex first :) We both slept about 3.5 hours that night, but I honestly would say it was worth it. I was dying to have that happen again and really needed it. I felt so much better afterwards. However, I do need to look into numbing lube. Yes, apparently this is a thing and the only way I know about it is through him. He got a bit weird earlier on me this weekend, but I think he’s just making sure we both keep some distance between us since we are both also seeing other people. I’m cool with that, it’s probably healthier.

But the amount I’ve been thinking about him isn’t and I gotta watch that. Oliver and him got in a bit of a spat the other night over me, but the problem is I haven’t talked to oliver since last saturday. He doesn’t even reach out. So like bro, what you hollerin about. I can tell that Oliver is super suspicious though. His intuition is incredibly strong and he knows something is up. I feel bad but at the same time I’m like “dude you’re fucking up”. Like it would at least help his case if he reached out but he won’t. And I know that. And I guess I’m going to be okay with it because I need to get over him. Zach is a fucking genius and strategic af so he used the situation to his advantage to be like dude, all bets are off with any of your past girls. If I want to hook up with Rachel, I will. So that way if we ever ran into him out, Oliver couldn’t say anything. Meanwhile, I’m over here just basking in my Miami glory. Living a life of spice with a side of drama.

That’s all until next time. Don’t get into too much trouble this Labor Day. XxR.

[2traveldads-blog]

There are days or weeks when we are just worn out; sometimes it’s from traveling a ton and sometimes it’s just because life can be a lot to deal with.  That’s why we always try to relax on our weekends and get a good recharge. We’ve partnered up with Hampton by Hilton to both help us find new ways for our family to recharge and to share with everybody else just what it means to be a Seekender, and we did it in Hood River, Oregon.

Hood River has long been a favorite place for us to escape to with the kids.  It’s perfect for a weekend getaway because it’s not crazy far from home and there are countless ways to have a new experience each time.  On our most recent visit we really aimed to take the role of Seekender and find all new activities to recharge.  Here’s how we set ourselves up for a great time away in Hood River as a family.

Accommodations with Hampton by Hilton

On our epic Florida Gulf Coast road trip we had a campervan the whole way… except for those nights at the start and end when we had to be in Miami.  The Hampton Inn & Suites Miami-Brickell was our recharging station after the longest day of travel ever and then after days on end on the road.  It was just what we needed.  So then thank goodness we spent a Seekender weekend in Hood River in the brand new Hampton by Hilton on the waterfront.  Again, perfect recharge; and the staff was so welcoming from the get-go.

We arrived and were given a nice room on the top floor looking out at the Columbia River, which is exactly what you’d hope for staying in any hotel in the relative location.  Upon seeing that we didn’t have a bathtub but a walk in shower, we called to the front desk to see if there was a room with a tub available since the kids always prefer a bath and the desk agent did a quick shuffle to get us into a larger room, I’d call it a suite, with a tub and extra play space for the kids.  It was a really great surprise

In the mornings when we needed breakfast or coffee, even when dining out for breaky, the staff in the pantry area and lobby were ready to strike up a conversation and be of help in a heartbeat.  It was nice to have people all around that were genuinely invested in making sure guests were able to relax… and they didn’t even know we’d be writing about them. 🙂

Tip:  if you’re goal for a weekend trip is to relax close to home, chances are there’s a Hampton Inn & Suites somewhere near your town, and there’s probably a Seekender or travel blogger that has some advice for great ways to unwind and experience the area.  Just sayin’…

Food in Hood River

Washington and Oregon are states of great diversity and it really shows in the food you find.  While we don’t really write about food, it’s always worth calling out when we visit a place that’s full of really great grub. Or beer. Or wine sometimes.  Hood River and the Columbia River Gorge is chalked full of deliciousness.

Most creative menu

Being a family full of food allergies and diverse tastes, it was great to find farm-to-table options, woodfire pizzas with fruit on them, salmon, and much more.  And craft beer… cuz Oregon. – Solstice, Hood River OR

Winningest craft beers

When you get a beer flight that celebrates great PNW IPAs, you know you’ve struck beer-gold – Backwoods Brewing Co, Carson WA

Most random food find 

Hawaiian BBQ with a smoker serving up some of the most tender vittles around. The location and atmosphere don’t do the food justice! – Lilo’s BBQ, Hood River OR

Favorite winery in the Columbia River Gorge

Good wines, of course, but also being family friendly and ready to entertain kids and adults alike, that’s just smart and thoughtful – AniChe Cellars, Underwood WA (winery + vines) & Hood River OR (tasting room + gallery)

Fun all around Hood River

Like we said, we’re frequent visitors to Hood River since it’s so easy to take a weekend trip to the Columbia River Gorge, so we’ve got our favorite activities.  We like to do a little hiking, a little window shopping, a little people watching, driving the fruit loop…

Waterfront Park

Walking distance from the Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River, Waterfront Park is perfect for unwinding with kids.  It’s got a playground, complete with a rock wall (cuz when in Hood River…), walking paths, seating for watching all the windsurfers and kite boarders of the Event Site, and even a suspension foot bridge carrying over to the History Museum of Hood River County. Needless to say, we were not bored during our whole stay.

Tip:  if you’d like to try another brewery, pFriem Brewing is located directly across from Waterfront Park.  Very busy place!

Vintage Cars and Airplanes in Hood River

For the first time ever we got to visit the WAAAM: Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum.  We weren’t exactly sure how the kids would enjoy WAAAM but it was a hit! The museum was well staffed with friendly, knowledgeable volunteers from around the Hood River area and they were all so passionate about the planes and cars on property.  The kids apparently really have a thing for vintage aircraft.  Who knew?

The people we met at WAAAM really made the visit special, from the retired airmen telling stories of flying over the mountains to the pilot that was so passionate about flying gliders.  And Ruth Blackburn who’s just about 90 years old and rides her crazy tall motorized tricycle around the hangar.

Tip:  check WAAAM’s schedule if you’re visiting on a Saturday as they fly a bunch of different vintage planes and offer rides in a variety of classic cars on the second Saturday of the month.

Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge

The most popular tourist attraction in Oregon is Multnomah Falls, which is only about a half hour from Hood River.  Multnomah and the many other falls of the Columbia Gorge Waterfall Area are great for a day trip and their beauty is really something, but there are lots of tourists.  Go, totally, but if you’re up for a less crowded waterfall experience, cross the river to Carson, WA to hike to Falls Creek Falls.

Heading away from the Columbia River up Wind River Road and then onto a forest service road (follow the signs), you’ll come to the trail head for Falls Creek Falls.  The hike is an easy 1.75 miles in crossing a few fun bridges (a wobbly bridge even!) and being surrounded by the greenest vegetation outside of the Hoh Rainforest. The falls is incredible and will leave you a bit speechless initially.  For having done a weekend in Hood River on countless occasions, somehow we had never made it here for hiking.  Thank goodness for friends with recommendations.

Tip:  on any weekend getaway in the Pacific Northwest, you should always have your hiking boots or spare shoes in your trunk.  You never know when hik-spiration will strike!

A break with friends

Another part of recharging is spending time with friends. Since we’ve been in the travel industry in one form or another for 17 years we have made friendships everywhere.  Hood River was perfect for getting to connect with some of our oldest friends.  We try to travel to places where we know we’ll get to see people, and this Seekender trip did that.

And despite the number of times we’ve visited Hood River, we still need help from locals, aka our buddies, to find cool new things to do.  They actually were the ones who suggested Falls Creek Falls for a fun hike with the kids.  

Tip:  if you feel like you don’t need to break away or don’t know where to go, pick a friend that you haven’t seen in a while and would like to catch up with.  Use them for your travel inspiration!

So can you see why our Seekender weekend was so awesome and did us so much good?  It was ideal having a consistent home base to come back to at the end of each day, and the amenities at the Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River made it easy to just chill and recharge.

It’s funny:  for all the traveling we do, so little of it is for the purpose of relaxing and just being together. Our Seekender weekend did just that, and in plotting out how we could best regroup as a family, we’re actually pretty darn inspired to set aside a few more weekends to do the same sort of relaxation and exploration in some of our other favorite local spots.

If you have any ideas for where we could/should head next, let us know!  We’re on the lookout for our next sleepy town or nature adventure, so be our local friend and point us in our next direction!

A Seekender experience in Hood River, Oregon: relaxing with family time There are days or weeks when we are just worn out; sometimes it’s from traveling a ton and sometimes it’s just because life can be a lot to deal with.  

[jeremystrele]

Luxury Bel-Air Property With Immense Swimming Pool

If there was ranking for show-stopping swimming pools, then the curvaceous waters that sweep the border of this Bel-Air acre plot would be topping the chart. Not only is it vast and flows to infinity, but it places swimmers and bathers at the edge of unparalleled views from the Getty to Catalina. The seven bedroom, ten bathroom, 20,000 square ft home designed by Tag Front Architects is valued at $48,000,000, and it’s easy to see why. 281 Bentley Circle is the pinnacle of sophistication with finest quality finishes. It boasts a twenty-person movie theatre, professional tennis court, gym and spa, an enormous wine room, and a 12-car garage.

A modern paradise unfolds behind the gates of this property in the prestigious Bel-Air neighbourhood. The acre-plus promontory supports oversized gardens, the finest in indoor-outdoor living and jaw-dropping architecture.

The front of the house stands like a fine fortress, protecting the serenity within.

To the side of the gardens, the professional tennis court beds down by a hedgerow and mature trees.

Six fountains froth in the swimming pool, marking the beginning of its exaggerated length. The location of the fountains positions them to be viewed from inside the home too.

SeaBobs make a quick and fun mode of transport to scoot from the house end of the pool to the sun loungers set out all the way down at the other.

The sun loungers are double banked around the pool edge, with some staying dry upon the deck, and others offering a cool dip.

The pool loungers are set into the shallows of an underwater platform; a step down plunges into deeper water.

The infinite pool ripples out to a breathtaking panorama, and reflects neverending clear blue skies.

By night, the house and gardens are alive with light, emitting a welcoming warmth.

The social spaces open up to the gardens so that all areas can be used seamlessly and connectively.

A modern outdoor chair breaches the border between indoor and outdoor living, sat upon a Portuguese Limestone floor that runs throughout.

A series of panels form a unique installment above a modern fireplace that blazes along a limestone hearth.

Another contemporary fireplace divides a luxury living room into two separate lounge spaces–one proportioned for entertaining larger parties, and one more intimate conversational arrangement.

Two sides of the main lounge are defined by a sectional sofa arrangement; a mid century modern chair stretches out along the window without obstructing the amazing views.

The L-shaped sofa backs onto a Calcutta marble bar, perfectly positioned to show free-flowing hospitality to house guests in the lounge.

Vibia Cosmos Cluster Pendant lights hang low along the length of the bar, and unique wooden bar stools make a monumental row at its side. Wine glasses and beverages are displayed along the back wall of the room for all to see.

There is yet another lounge arrangement in the home’s common area, which is designed as a more secluded spot. Solid surrounding walls give the place an intimate and cosy feel, though small picture windows still let in the sunlight.

In the snug, a modern lounge chair reclines by a tall bank of shelving, where books and decorative items live.

A circular feature is set into the architecture, and this shape theme is repeated in some of the interior accents too, like the sculptural room divider that veils a luxury dining room. The sputnik chandelier that hangs at each end brings a spherical aspect to the table too.

The masterfully designed open floor plan includes a luxurious kitchen diner. Dark Italian kitchen cabinets contrast richly with the airy white interior.

Racks upon racks of wine storage tower in the wine room, like lustrous wallpaper.

A bright orange accent sofa, swivel armchair and floor cushions kit out the wine room with comfy seating. A selection of poufs, side tables and a glass coffee table fill the expanse between.

An impressive marble and glass staircase design climbs to the first floor of the home.

At the heart of the stairwell, a modern chandelier provides a dazzling core.

Glass balustrades seem to run on forever across the landing.

Waking up in the luxurious master suite brings a blessing of blue skies. Orange decor accents contrast with the skyscape.

The master suite leads straight out onto its own balcony, which overlooks the gardens and impressive pool.

Nature and cityscape views give the best of both worlds.

The balcony runs the length of the master bedroom and its ensuite bathroom. In the ensuite, the views can be soaked in from the tub by the window, or from a crystal clear shower enclosure nearby.

Six guest suites are steeped in luxury and breathtaking views too. In this one, two bedroom chairs look out of floor to ceiling glass.

The wall of a glass ensuite bathroom retracts to give entry to the airy room.

The next cozy bedroom is home to a Fiddle Leaf Fig indoor plantt that seems to dwarf an accent chair by the ensuite.

Each bathroom adheres to the highest caliber fittings and finishes, right down to ambient lighting schemes.

An entire row of potted plants screen the next modern bedroom from being overlooked. A modular headboard wall design divides the sleep space from its attached bathroom.

A chaise lounge chair reclines in the foliage filtered sunlight.

The home spa would rival any hotel.

Comfortable couches seat twenty viewers in the home theatre.

Stacked volumes form the modern house exterior.

Illuminated outdoor stairs climb the main entrance.

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