Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

I can't tell you how much fun it has been to read everyone's comments on my kitchen dilemma. Thank you all so, so much! I have been considering everyone's opinions and suggestions and will probably continue to do so over the holiday season.

I plan to really study my options - creamy whites, colors, painting all the cabinetry versus just some, perhaps leaving the island the natural pine, figuring out how to make whatever I do cohesive with the rest of the house - I don't know. Hopefully the new year will bring clarity.

 Photo by Nathan Schroder, House Beautiful, November 2007

Meanwhile, here is one of my all time favorite kitchens, designed by Shannon Bowers of Dallas. I am crazy about the antique tile back splash, the simplicity of the cabinetry and hardware, the big window with a simple shade, and the built in shelves for display. I know, it's not a big, fancy designer looking kitchen - it just speaks to my heart. I could be happy here.

  I realize it isn't remotely like what I've got to work with, but I love it all the same! Hmmmm.......did I mention that I love painted floors?