Slowly they’ve been defining their style–which includes watching expenses.
What did they learn?
How are they doing it?
1. They were fortunate and quick to take advantage of the first time buyer tax credit to purchase a new place. Not only did it give them some extra for their budget, it’s also a clean slate instead of choosing between his or her place.
2. With the new construction almost complete, they were able to work with their builder to make small changes that help make it their own–without adding out-of-pocket costs.
For example, kitchen and bath cabinet hardware went from “swirly” traditional handles to sleek modern stainless steel. Also, the granite countertop was extended to the floor to create an architecturally strong element in the kitchen which leads into the living/dining area.
3. Next, they accepted hand-me-downs from their families. Some of them work great and others are a testament to their ability to negotiate–both with each other and with whoever’s doing the offering.
4. Megan’s living proof of the theory: buy what you love and it will work together.
A perfect example is their new piazza sofa with a second-hand Persian-style rug.
5. Paint is inexpensive–plan on doing a lot of it. It gives the biggest bang for the buck and color helps tie elements together.
They painted every room using a neutral palette, the exception is a rich navy blue in the office/guest room that took three coats. For a close match, see Pantone 2965C.
Lastly, it’s one of the best ways to retro-fit a piece of furniture to your style.
6. Slowly but surely, additions and upgrades get done according to the budget.
Lamps are on their wish list–but in the meantime, a new trig desk provides workspace while still allowing room for guests in the second bedroom.
And even though Paul’s very visual, imagining the mix is not his specialty so Megan gives him lots of time to get comfortable with major purchases.
What’s next? They’re both anxious to enjoy warmer weather with Monroe so outdoor furniture is quickly becoming a priority!
Once again this year we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the contributions made to local food banks during our 
need, educating the public, and promoting public policies that address hunger and its root causes.
specially packaged foods that do not require refrigerator storage or can openers for the homeless population who seek out our services.
To fulfill their mission they source and acquire food and other products and distribute to needy people through charitable agencies or directly through programs. They energize the community to get involved and support hunger relief. They also conduct hunger education and awareness campaigns and advocate for public policies that alleviate hunger.
We could spend the rest of our lives looking for the words to express the overwhelming emotion and gratitude we felt when we saw the sea of orange at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on September 26th, but we know that we will never find them.
