5 on Friday

It's finally cooled off here in STL and this weekend has fall written all over it. I love it! We've got a ton of running around to do, but I'll definitely be making some time for the fabulous fall patio weather. It's been awhile since I've done a 5 on Friday....here's what's been on my mind lately:

1/ It's amazing how much things change in just one week. Last Friday, our house looked like this:

And, as of last night, we were able to have our First Tour. It was so exciting to go inside and take measurements for curtains, figure out where furniture can go and where we need new stuff. We also feel much better that our first purchase will actually fit...

2/ We made our first official "big" purchase: a new couch. We got an awesome deal at the new West Elm store (which is also awesome, by the way). It's so soft and velvety. I can't wait to curl up on it.

3/ The worst thing about this whole process is that we had to put our "girls" in long term boarding. They are safe and being taken care of...just not getting all the love and attention they are used to getting. We're going to see them this weekend for some bath and play time. They are going to love all of the green space and lakes in New Town -- they'll be here with us soon!

4/ Mr. VB and I were asked to take part in a local fundraiser and ReDesign Challenge. We have to turn the three windows below into a unique and usable piece for the home. We can't buy anything new and basically can only use the materials in the windows (we can use nails and tools). The piece is then auctioned off at a fundraiser (along with other pieces by local artists, designers and architects). We're a little nervous because we've seen what's been created in the past, but we're up for the challenge!

5/ Everyone says how stressful it is to sell and build a home -- and we've definitely been stressed the last six months. We decided to take a little R&R and we're heading down to Rosemary Beach, FL next week. It's a little community similar to the one we are building in, but it's on the ocean. We found a little condo overlooking the town square and right above the local coffee shop. We got a rack for our bikes, so we'll be able to bike around town, down to the beach and to the nearby communities. I'm looking forward to nothing but beach, biking and lounging around.