House high hopes

Yesterday we had our home inspection. With how things work in the real estate world, I am a little leery of saying that getting the house is official. Our agent assured us that if the inspection went well that we could make plans. So... we are making plans. The inspection went well. There are only a few minor things that need to be fixed. What a relief. After the inspection we drove around the community a bit.
Above is a picture of the pool that is within walking distance of the house. It was cold outside so the pool was empty... and I'm hoping that it doesn't get to crowded. The picture below is of the fishing pier at one of the ponds. It is so picturesque isn't it? There were kids playing at the park, the ducks hanging out in the shade and it was just a great day.
Here is a picture of the back of the house. Re-visiting the house reminded me that the yard is going to be the perfect size. I plan on having a raised garden bordering the yard. Alexis plans of having a "play ground" as she calls it. She wants a swing set fort. Maybe that will be the kids Christmas this year.
Here is the kitchen. I LOVE this set up, especially the island. I've always had the kids who want to help in the kitchen with cookies or other things. I've always had the issue of being too close to the stove or not having the counter space for both of them to help. The island fixes that. Now they can sit on one end and help stir, measure, and make a mess. I'm also excited about 10 pull out drawers! YEAH! A place to put things and no more storing everything on the counter.
This is a view of the family room from the kitchen/dining area. Where there is currently carpet we plan on continuing the tile. I can already see food migrating onto the carpet, so might as well put in tile with an area rug. The nice thing is that they are still building on our street so we can go to the builder to match tile.
Here is the front of the house. I love the front porch. I can't wait to plant flowers and do landscaping. I know it is on the bottom of David's list... but I love to dig in the dirt and watch flowers bloom. After our Tucson house I also wanted a porch so when people are at the front door in rain they are not being drenched. I also wanted to be able to see the street from the house. Interesting the things we prefer after not having them. Things that don't seem important are. I like knowing what is going on in front of my house... and who is out there.
Here is a picture of the front formal living/dining area. The lighting is awesome isn't it? Painting these rooms is going to be lots of fun. I guess that is what ladders are for. The stairs are on the left of the room.
I guess you could say I am excited about the house, painting, cleaning, and finally settling in. In all our previous houses we've had plans to sell and move within a few years. With this house... we plan on staying awhile and don't have plans to move any time soon. This is a feeling I've not had before and I like the thought of unpacking boxes and planting some roots. So now comes the colors... Hmmm... so many options and possibilities... Fun Fun Fun!