Monday, July 11, 2011

MOVING MADNESS & GORGEOUS GIVEAWAY

You have to admit I do have good excuses for why I haven't blogged.  When I last posted I promised gifts and giveaways galore once things settled down after Quilt Market.  Ready?  Here comes my latest. 




Things have been on-again, off-again for the last year as to whether we were really moving to San Diego. Tim has been working there the majority of the time and I haven't felt comfortable announcing that I have been here by myself.  Well, it was definately on-again when I got home from Quilt Market and a Pod was in the driveway to make sure it sunk in.   

MY POD
Next thing I knew we were racing to get our house ready to sell.  Finishing up all those odds and ends that we always intended to tackle ourselves.  Tim flew home and we quickly had a mega yard sale...literally opened the garage door, stuck out a couple signs on Thursday and Friday while painters, carpet installers, roofers and landscapers (I'm sure I've left out a few workers) were here doing touch ups and repairs.  On Thursday early evening our real estate agent came by with the paperwork and a For Sale sign for the yard.  By Friday morning we already had people wanting to view the house.  I had made it clear that I intended to get the workers out and the house cleaned before it could be seen.  Sunday morning we planned to do some finishing touches, but a couple from Chicago wanted to see it first thing and stayed for 2 hours!   We barely put the finishing touches in place and had to quickly  find someplace to hide out (we ran out of time to even take showers).  My real estate agent happens to also be an incredible friend and neighbor.  Her house was just up the street and is currently vacant, so we took our very old and sick dog over there to sit for 3 1/2 hours. 

I was so stinkin bored.  Did I mention her house was totally vacant?  I sat on the floor and cleaned out all the old emails on my iPhone, tried to learn to use apps I previously ignored and threw out old gum wrappers from my purse.  All I could think about was how the Open House was going.  Tashi and Tim were layed out on the living room floor snoozing so I decided to put on my baseball cap and sunglasses and go for a little walk.  As I turned the bend there were cars up and down both sides of the street and up the side street next to our house.  I seriously thought someone was having a graduation party, but as I got closer it appeared the party was at my house.  My next door neighbor was out working in the yard so I snuck up on him.  Startled, he said he didn't recognize me with the hat and glasses, to which I told him, "Shhh, I'm incognito!"  He verified that all those cars were at my Open House.  I skipped back to the hideout and waited until 5:15 when we thought the coast was clear.  As we pulled up our drive we realized people were still walking around in the yard and one couple was visiting with the next door neighbors. 


Not too convincing SpyWear
 I wish I had a picture of our agent Teresa when we walked into our kitchen.  She had thrown  her torso and arms out  on the island pretending she had collapsed from exhaustion.  That was only temporary because she started talking 90+ MPH, telling us she couldn't keep up after 80 people but she was sure there were at least 100 that came through.  I wouldn't have believed her if I hadn't seen it for myself.   No sooner did she leave when she called on her cell to say she just received an offer.  By bedtime we had two offers over the asking price and more promised for the next day. 

Next morning we had people and realtors lined back to back starting at 8 a.m. with appointments to see the house.  Our heads were spinning.  We really had no place to go so we hung out at a couple restaurants until  Tim needed to pack and get to the airport.  We also needed to get our Tashi in to the vets.  After lunch we intruded on a showing at our house and felt obligated to say excuse me to the strangers looking in our closets.  We quickly packed Tim's bag and rescued Tashi from his indoor kennel.  He was not well and this added stress was taking it's toll on him.  When we got to the vets, it wasn't good news.  Long story short, we left without our Tashi.  He has been our friend and companion for 16 1/2 years; our other son.  One minute we are on a mountaintop with all the interest in our house and the next minute down in a valley as Tashi is being put to sleep.  Tim and Tashi were very close and Tim had to walk away from that to catch a flight for San Diego.  It was heartbreaking.

Our Tashi Bear as a pup

My Three Teenagers

As I said my goodbye's to Tashi I whispered in his ear to go find Jonathan.  
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 By that afternoon we had two more offers and appts. booked out the rest of the week from morning to night.  When Teresa stopped over I suggested that while this was crazy good, I wasn't sure why I'd want to keep this up. So I chose an above the asking price offer (surprised?) and by the time Tim landed in San Diego the house was sold.  I think that's a good sign, even a record, don't you? 

Wherever you want us to go Lord.  Where?  San Diego?  Oh, if you insist!! 

All kidding aside, moving across the country after just losing our son and leaving the only other family we have here was a huge decision and one we did not make on our own. 

Next task was to quick find a house in San Diego.  I had been looking almost daily since last August on the internet, flew out there previously to house hunt and always disliked the choices.  So many of our options were short sales, foreclosures, houses left vacant, bank-owned or just plain ugly. I flew out again with a list of potentials, most of which were quickly crossed off the list once I saw them in person, or saw the neighborhood, etc.  One of our "must-have's" was some private outdoor living space to make up for the much smaller interiors we were accustomed to in the South and Midwest. There were other things we hoped for, but this one thing was non-negotiable.  I am excited to say that the last place we viewed was "the one".   And it wasn't because I was blurry eyed and everything started to run together (which it did), but because we couldn't see inside the neighbors houses or even their yards, and likewise.  We put an offer on it, did a bit of countering and by the time I got off the plane back in Indianapolis I had a contract to sign.  That, my friends, is amazing. 

I had workers inside and out doing repairs and touch-ups and in some cases they actually made things worse.  For instance, a young guy was up in the attic and poked his foot through a bedroom ceiling.  It was much more humorous when the hole was open and the insulation was falling out.  But they made it much less conspicuous once they taped it with royal blue and black masking tape.



The guy that came to repair the hole didn't do a good job, got ceiling paint on the walls and after returning 3 more times the repair patch kept getting larger. When the owner of the company came to inspect the patch I told him the new homeowners would need to sign off on the job and I didn't think they would be happy with the workmanship. He walked over and closed the blinds in the bedroom and suggested I leave them closed as to not draw attention to the ceiling. Are you freakin serious??  Bye-bye Mr. Ceiling Man.

I've already closed on this house and packing has started!!!  Our friends  didn't want us to leave, but still had a Farewell Fling for us which will make us miss them even more than we thought possible.  I think I only know a couple people in San Diego, and one of them is our real estate agent.  Skype and unlimited calling will make the transition easier. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I am so, so very excited about my next decor line with Demdaco.  In the midst of all this moving madness, I have been receiving both images and some boxes of product for approval for the 2012 Paula Prass Collection.  I was squealing over the images, but when the boxes arrived I was screaming and doing back flips...okay, just screaming.  I can't talk about the new products for another 6 months, but I am beside myself delighted.  The new line coordinates so nicely with my current line. 

So, since I can't share with you next year's line right now, I certainly can share my current line for Demdaco.  How about I share one of my pillow designs with you? This one is a 16" square in pinky coral, greens, creams and brown accents.  The saying: It is not only fine FEATHERS that make fine birds, it's also how those birds DECORATE their nests.  Just leave a message.  If you happen to know some highly creative artists, sewers or places I should know about in San Diego, I'd appreciate passing that along, but it's not necessary.  I'll be picking a winner around Thursday or Friday before the moving truck pulls down the driveway.  Ready.  Set.  Go.


52 comments:

  1. What a tale Paula! I'm so happy for you. The transition to a new place can be so stressful at least you have the selling and buying part down! I can't wait to see your new place.

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  2. Wow Sweet Paula! Phew! What a whirl wind! I am so so sorry for your sweet Tashi. Breaks my heart for you. I will send happy thoughts for a smooth transition!

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  3. wow! what a lot of changes. good luck in your new home.

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  4. Love the pillow and I am so excited for this new chapter in your life. What a whirlwind!God bless you and your sweet little puppy is making someone very happy in Heaven!

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  5. I'm exhausted Paula just hearing about your whirlwind sale and purchase. Good luck on your move; I love the San Diego area/restaurants and shopping in La Jolla!

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  6. I just love reading your ever changing tales and stories Paula! From funny to heartbreaking, you touch my heart lady. I will miss having you as a fellow Indiana neighbor but will certainly be staying in touch with you as you move to California! No one deserves new exciting adventures more than you do my dear. :) Good luck and take care!

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  7. I bet they were lined up! Holy cow what a wonderful home.

    So sorry to hear about your pup.

    Hope the move to CA will be an easy one. And of course omg on the pillow. O. M. G. Love it. Would love to win.

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  8. I'm so sorry about the loss of your sweet Tashi. I hope all goes well with your move and provides a fresh start of sorts. Very best wishes!

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  9. OMG! I just don't know how much more you can take! I hope you get some peace and quiet soon! Beautiful pillow! I want it!

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  10. You must feel like you are living on a roller coaster. Sorry to hear about your puppy, they bring a lot of joy to our lives. Love your pillow design and have the perfect place for it in my sewing space called "The Nest." Exciting times ahead for you!

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  11. Now that's how every house sale should go!! You didnt ask but there is a great winery near SanDeigo called "Wilson Creek". They have wonderful champagne flavored with almond, peach and orange. The almond is wonderful poured into dark chocolate cups, they call it almond joy, you can eat the cup afterward. YUMMIE!!!!

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  12. I'm so sorry for your loss. And congrats on your new place!!

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  13. What a whirlwind time you've had in recent times! My sympathy goes to you and your family on the passing of Tashi. I'm sure you'll love your new home!

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  14. What an epic post! Such a lot of changes and ups and downs for you. I hope you get some time to look after yourselves as you transition to the next stage of your life.

    Sending many hugs and thoughts
    Deb (Christchurch NZ)

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  15. my goodness, im exhausted after reading your post, can't imagine how drained your are! best of luck in all you do and decide! so sorry about Tashi

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  16. You have had a very tumultuous year!

    My condolences to you and your family for the loss of your smallest and furriest family member. He was an adorable little dog.

    I hope San Diego brings you adventure and happiness.

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  17. I love your new pillow design - pink and green are one of my favorite color combinations - that with your wonderful artwork design makes for a wonderful room accent!! Again - great job.

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  18. Hi Paula! I admit I found the blog today b/c I wanted a chance @ the most fabulous pillow! But, I am so happy to have read it and gotten a little caught up with all that is happening w. you all. Paula, you are amazing! Hope you love your new nest. Sending hugs your way! Betsy

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  19. What a year for you, Miss Paula. I hope it becomes as lovely as the gorgeous creations you create! Much love from your old friends in Nashville!
    -Sarah (Mason) Walden

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  20. What a year for you, Miss Paula. I hope it becomes as lovely as the gorgeous creations you create! Much love from your old friends in Nashville!
    -Sarah (Mason) Walden

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  21. Wow! Congratulations on your swift sale of your home, I've never heard of a sale going that splendidly, especially lately! That is great! Can't wait to see pictures of your new house!

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  22. WOW! Congrats on the quick sale and best wishes in your new home!

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  23. Hopefully you were as lucky working your real estate magic in EL. Tell some of those unlucky folks in Indy to head on up to Michigan. Have we got some real estate for them!

    So sorry for your loss. You've had ne he'll of a year.

    Good luck on the move!

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  24. So heartbreaking about Tashi- Hugs for your healing. Your move sounds exciting and like it's going well. VermontPines@aol.com

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  25. Holy Moley!!! And you're still upright? Well, I've always said that the steps of a righteous chick are ordered of God! Who wants a boring life????

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  26. Dear Paula what a life you have and I must say handle it so well. I am so sorry about Tashi, it is so hard to lose your best friend,we so love these little friends.
    Happy things went well for you on the selling of your home and buying the new one. I wish you and Tim the best in this new move forward as it has been a difficult year for you all.
    Love and blessings Sandra

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  27. oh i just found your blog. awesome story, what a whirlwind, i was exhausted just reading it. I love your pillow and your designs. Can't wait to see more. thanks.

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  28. Hi Paula:

    So sorry to hear about your sweet Tashi. I have been thinking of you and hoping that some sunshine was breaking into your world. The pillow is so beautiful, can't wait for the entire line. Wishing you lots of new adventures in your new home.

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  29. Paula, I'm so sad to hear about the loss of your Tashi. But I bet he found his buddy up there. Have a safe move and I can't wait to see your place in San Diego!

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  30. Nice to hear you got the house you like. Our son lives in Carlsbad, CA, San Diego county. LOVE the area and weather!! You will love it!

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  31. Hi Paula, I just want to welcome you to San Diego. I cannot remember the last time we saw you guys. We live in Rancho Bernardo and I am familiar with a few quilt shops in the area. The weather is very nice this week, but is suppose to get hot and humid this weekend.
    I know how hard and how exciting it is to make such a major move away from family and friends. We use skype with Amy, who lives in Carmel, especially on holidays. I will send you a email with a few tips on settling in to this area. Save travels.

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  32. Whirlwind! Whirling Dervish! You have so much energy. Congratulations on managing to sell and buy a house, and move. Thanks for the gorgeous giveway. Perhaps a little of your energy will rub off on me.

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  33. Welcome to San Diego, it's a great place to live!

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  34. I guess there really isn't time to breathe yet. All this would have flattened a lesser person. God Bless.

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  35. Wow you have been so busy. So sorry to hear about Tashi. I hope you get a new dog at your new home.
    Happy days.
    bev.xoxo

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  36. And then we'll have coffee! Love the pillow-- and the fabric on the chair it is sitting on! So sorry to hear about your sweet little dog. hugs to you . xoxo

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  37. Somewhere I have a business card for some talented ladies who own a scrapbook store in San Diego. I met them at a Mary Engelbreit Home Companions Workshop last year in St Louis. They were totally marvelous!

    And, if you're driving through Salt Lake City on your way to San Diego, let me know and I'll flag your car down on the freeway and slip you some cookies. I'm not as strange as I may come across. And I met you and your daughter at market.

    Other than that, I've only visited San Diego once in my life and found it to be beautiful. I know I'll be back as my husband faithfully follows Washington Redskins football and they play the San Diego Chargers every few years.

    Godspeed on your move and condolences for the loss of Tashi.

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  38. Wow! The stories of our lives certainly do have interesting chapters! Much luck in your new destination!

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  39. oh, wow... sounds like you have a lot of work ahead of you and I hope that most of it is fun and enjoyable. :) Sorry about the sweet puppy!
    The pillow is gorgeous! I love the saying and the bird. :)

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  40. Wow what an emotional rollercoaster, it was the sort of post you read where you're racing through to find out what happens next! I'm new to your Blog and your work but I love your cushion, it's utterly utterly divine! The very best wishes with the move, I'm in London so I'm afraid I don't know any contacts in San Diego so the very best wishes with that too.

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  41. Moving house...scary and exciting all at once! All the best with life's next "chapter".

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  42. You will love San Diego. The weather is great. I am in Northern California. Get to Monterrey/Carmel as soon as you can.

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  43. Wow, what an adventure you have been having! I am so sorry to hear about your dog :(
    As a native San Diegan, I find so much inspiration all over the county, from the tile work & architecture in Balboa Park to the mountains & apple trees in Julian. I love painting leaves, flowers, birds and butterflies as our winters are mild and there are always so many around!
    I do a fair amount of sewing and it seems each area has a decent sized quilt shop. Anytime I've gone in one, the women working there are always overjoyed to help find prints and always want to see what project I'm working on :)

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  44. Congratulations on selling your house! I wish you luck in your new home.

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  45. Best of luck for your relocation. Hope it goes smoothly for you. You are an amazing designer and decorator.
    Mary

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  46. What a whirlwind!! An emotional upheaval too. LOVE the pillow though!
    Best wishes in your new home.

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  47. I enjoy your blog!! Welcome to southern California. I live about 45min from SD, you will enjoy the winters here. I know lots of creative people when your ready to get social. Best! Christine Adolph

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  48. Best wishes in your new home in San Diego, it's sure to be warmer and you can enjoy the outdoors all year long. Your home make-over is just beautiful! So sorry about losing your adorablel little dog, they become such a part of the family.

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  49. Is it too late to post a comment? Hope not, because I love the pillow!

    Hope things are improving daily for you--

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  50. I hope you are settling in after all the flurry and will feel at home very soon. Blessings!

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  51. Paula,
    I remember working with you over 10 years ago at Calico Corners. What a difference a decade makes! Congratulations on all of your success, you truly are an inspiration. To Many Adventures in Sunny California!
    Take care,
    Jessica Shreve

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