Why have I waited so long!?!

A post title with many meanings...

First, I can't believe that it has taken me so long to post this as it is the most exciting thing to happen around here since...sliced bread I guess.
Second, I can't believe that it took me so long to just bite the bullet, but my fears aside and go for it! For what you ask? Tearing up the old carpet and exposing the BEAUTIFUL hardwood floors underneath! See:

yes, that first picture was taken to show the curtains more than the floor

Of course, we didn't know that the floors were going to be so beautiful, or the process would have started many months ago. Pulling up carpet, while easy, is a fairly risky undertaking because you never know whats going to lie underneath. Burn marks? Deep scratches? Water damage?? Eeeeee....Makes me nervous just thinking about it! I mean, why would anyone cover up perfectly finished Oak hardwood floors?!? I don't know, but for our sake, I thank them generously. We do not have it in the budget to refinish or re-carpet this room.

The exposed hardwood has changed the feel of the room dramatically, and I do believe the room feels much more spacious. Next step, convincing H that taking out the carpet in the hall is necessary as well. I am ok with leaving it in the bedrooms, but in the hallway that adjoins the living room; that has got to go!

Here is a little photo montage of the process:

What do you think? Are you inspired to start ripping things up?! This project has sparked some motivation in me to get working on a few more projects, mostly painting. We shall see what the next months projects hold!

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