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In an unexpected twist…we bought a house. Meet the 70’s Landing Pad.

You read that right. And no, its not April Fools Day or anywhere close to it.

We bought a house.

And it was completely unexpected. 

If you’ve been around here for more than a minute, you know our love for our current home, The Beloved Foreclosure runs deep. We never really expected to leave it. We even put in a pool and new patio this summer, had plans to completely re-do the Circus’ room and were even considering adding on an addition – we love our house.

Now, let’s switch gears for a minute. We’ve known for the past couple of years that my in-laws wanted to move down to Chattanooga after my father-in-law retired to be closer to the Circus – well closer to us too, but let’s face it, mostly they wanted to be closer to the Circus. When we found this out, we looked at lots to build a house on that would be big enough for both our families and we also looked at existing homes that would hold us all as well. I am one of the few who loves her in-laws and would happily have them in the same house as us. We actually found one, but couldn’t work a deal out with the sellers. Finally, we all decided that our best shot would be to find them a house in our neighborhood – we love our neighborhood and if we couldn’t find a great house for all of us, then we wanted to stay in the neighborhood. The problem with that is that there are few smaller, one story homes in our neighborhood that would work for them. We found one that we thought would work, but they couldn’t even get an offer in before the house was already under contract – good houses tend to move fast in our neighborhood. We also kept our eyes open for a house for us and if we found one, then my in-laws would take our house.

We never really thought the latter would happen. We always expected to find a house for them – not us.

We were wrong.

A house came up for sale just up the street from us that was good for us. We looked at it, made an offer, and had a contract on it.

And then one thing led to another, and things were progressing way too slowly and to us, it just seemed like a sign that this wasn’t the house for us. So, we backed out of the contract.

And when we backed out of the contract, another house went up for sale in our neighborhood. And it was actually better for us and our needs than the other one. We took that as another sign. We had it under contract within a little over a week and just closed on it last Friday.

We are calling our new home The 70’s Landing Pad.

It is definitely rocking the 70’s vibe and it is our landing pad – we have no intentions of leaving, y’all.

Here’s the tour of the new pad. Let’s all go ahead and put on our rose colored glasses for this one- that’s the only way I’m coping with all the work that has to be done.

You think I’m joking. Just wait.

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

Welcome to the 70’s Landing Pad.

As you can probably tell from the photo – it is a split foyer. I will say that I haven’t always been a big fan of split foyers, but I don’t detest this one.

Entryway / Foyer

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

We will be updating the railings as well as all light fixtures, flooring and paint throughout the house.

Living Room

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

The living room is just off the entryway. Totally diggin’ that blue carpet. #nope

Dining Room

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

And the dining room is just off the living room and kitchen. The living room and dining room are fully open to one another.

The Kitchen

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

And then there’s the kitchen. And all the wallpaper I have to remove. And cabinets I have to paint. And hardware I have to replace.

#overwhelmed

And why in the world are there vanity lights over the cabinets???

The Hall Bathroom

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

Oh look. More wallpaper! YES! #winning #not

Sorry – I don’t know why I’m using hashtags so frequently in this post. I think its just one of my favorite ways to be a smartass.

My Office

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

Technically, this is a bedroom – but it is tiny for a bedroom. So, it’s going to become my office, which Bill is very happy about because I will no longer be invading his space at all.

Also, I do realize we did just makeover Will’s entire room and my office space. When we started that, we had no idea we were going to be moving. If I would have known, trust me, I would have waited to do all that at the new house. The good news though is that everything we did to his room here will work perfectly at the new house too. So essentially, he’ll have the same room there as he did here, with the exception that my office won’t be in there.

The Circus’ Bedroom

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

The Circus’ Bedroom is about the same size as it is here. However, we are going to be making it a little bigger – I’ll show you how in a minute.

Also, there is hardwood in two rooms in the entire house – only TWO! Why, why, why couldn’t the builders have just kept that stuff going throughout??? What was the point of just putting it in two of the bedrooms?

#SMH #WTF

The Master Bedroom

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

And then there’s the master bedroom.

That I have no idea what I’m going to do with. It has more space than we could ever need. There’s a sitting area, which will be nice, but honestly I could make another sitting area elsewhere in the room. Since this room is right beside the Circus’ room, we are actually going to take some of the space from it and give it to the Circus. We just really don’t need this much.

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

It’s nice to have so much space, but honestly, it’s one of those things where the additional space could have been used (and been more functional) elsewhere.

The Master Bath

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

I’m also referring to this little gem as the tunnel. Because that’s what it is – one long tunnel. And it doesn’t make much sense. There is no shower in this bathroom – only a tub. #WTH This also goes back to my thoughts on how all that space in the master could have been more functionally used.

I have no clue what to do in this space. #shelaughsinsanely

Let’s move downstairs, shall we?

The Den / Man Cave

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

This area will function as both the family room and man cave. As of right now, we aren’t going to put a TV in the living room, so this is where I’ll get my weekly dose of Shonda Rhimes. Once drywall is up, some painting and new carpet is down, I think it will be cozy.

Grunt Labor’s Office

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

This bedroom, which will function as Grunt Labor’s office, is just off the den. I’m not quite sure how he got the larger office area since he doesn’t even work from home, but whatevs.

I’m kidding. I had to say that so that when he reads this he’ll say something about me throwing him under the bus, which I do sometimes do on rare occasion just because I feel its my God given right to mess with him. #amiwrong #nope

Really though, he gets the bigger office because he will eventually be getting his dad’s furniture from his office and all of it wouldn’t fit in the smaller office upstairs.

#thethingsyoudoforlove

Laundry Room

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

Grunt Labor is also very excited to have his own laundry room. You do know that he does our laundry, right? He calls it his “woman’s work.” He doesn’t mean it to be an anti-feminist remark. I’d give him a swift kick in the rear if he did. And also, he can call it whatever the hell he wants to as long as I don’t have to do the laundry.

#insertevillaughhere

The Half Bath

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

This bathroom kind of gives me the heebie-jeebies. It’s just off the den area. It’s T-90 (tiny and when I say it like T-90, I mean really tiny) and everything just looks so ugly and dirty, it freaks me out a bit. #slightgermophobe

The Guest Room / Bill’s Room

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

This room is quite a bit larger than Bill’s room now. I think it was actually unfinished basement space at one time. It even has its own bathroom…

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

Once you get past the wallpaper, countertop and awful flooring, it isn’t half bad.

The Backyard

The 70's Landing Pad: Before

And y’all – we have a pool.

A real life in-the-ground pool.

That was filled in a couple years ago because the owners just got tired of dealing with it. WHAT?! WHY WHY WHY?!

#sheripsherhairout

I seriously thought Grunt might just cry when he heard that was the only reason it was filled in. He thinks there might be hope for it yet though. Anyone got a backhoe?

If you didn’t put your rose colored glasses on, you can tell there is a whole lotta work to be done. I won’t lie – I am overwhelmed. I am also excited because I know this house – at the risk of sounding cliche – is kinda perfect for us. I’m also very grateful that we found a house so we can get my in-laws down here and have them close by. They won’t be moving down for a while, so we are going to be able to stay in our Beloved Foreclosure while working on the 70’s Landing Pad.

As we come up with plans for the house remodeling, I’ll be posting them and I fully expect you to give your opinions. A girl can’t do this kind of shit alone.

Send prayers. Send happy thoughts. Send reinforcements. And most importantly – send booze.

 

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Comments

  1. Karen J says

    Ahhhhh, mwb (mamma wanna be) knows it was the green trim that sold you! Looks like it’s going to be a great home for all. Very happy for you all.

    Reply

  7. Hope Williams says

    Can I just say that I really admire your style! By that I mean you totally remind me of, well, ME! I tend to live life as it happens. I still at 50, fly by the seat of my britches! And I’m really proud to say, “IM GREAT AT IT!” Apparently you are too!
    Congrats on a great buy and giving your britches a what for workout!
    I love your new home and tons of possibilities! It will be awesome in no time at all!
    I think Grunts a big boy and can handle you and your sense of humor! I know the kids are excited too! Bill, what’s your 2 cents worth in this one?
    Grunt, your 2 cents I’ll give 5 cents on your input too!
    Miller High Life on the way!
    I look forward to this wild ride with y’all!
    Congrats y’all!

    Reply

  8. Lindsay says

    It has such potential and I can’t wait to see what you do with it. I’m right around the corner if you need any help.

    Reply

  12. Gretchen@BoxyColonial says

    There is nothing I love more than a 70’s era brick ranch (or, you know, ranch-ish split foyer). We wanted to buy my grandmother’s, but it didn’t work out. Anyway. So I’m excited for you! congrats!

    Reply

  14. Desiree' says

    Wow that is a major 1970’s kitchen I have not seen in a while. I know you will be really creative when it comes to everything you have to do for your 70’s landing. Take time with everything. Please do post what you have done afterwards. I am sure all of us would love to see it.

    Reply

  15. Beth says

    OMG! Love it!!! You have LOTS of work to do!! Can’t wait to watch you transform this into the amazing home you will absolutely make it! And that pool, I would have reacted the same as Grunt Labor – UGH!!!!

    Reply

  16. Sherri says

    I love it, looking forward to seeing what awesome things you do with it too! Bill might get back on Pinterest and come up with a different idea for the new house. Have fun!

    Reply

  17. Susan the Farm Quilter says

    You know you are going to have a blast turning this, ummmm, sad house into the perfect home! There will be blood, sweat, tears, swearing and lots of cheap beer, but you are going to wave your freak wand all over that house and turn it into a show-stopper!!! So much potential here…maybe Chip and Jo Gaines will travel from Waco to help you out!!! You are lucky that you have the time to make changes before your in-laws move into your home…some of those rooms are scare-yucky!!! What caused that obscene rectangle on the floor of the kitchen in front of the sink…a rug??? EEEEWWWWWWW!!!

    Reply

  19. Linda Moffitt says

    Hopefully you’ll find more surprises as you start digging in like maybe hardwood under the carpet? Or did you already check for it? Long story short I had to sell my beloved home because of nasty neighbors and I’m friendly with the people who bought it friendly enough to see some of the stuff they did to it, some just makes me want to cry others make me jealous and I wish I was still there but just because of all the green on yours it reminded me they painted my old kitchen walls hunter green! the walls!! Hunter green! ????Not just trim cause that have made a little sense it’s wood trim throughout ! So at least as far as I know they haven’t ruined that yet! And the The living room was pretty dark as it was with no ceiling fixture light so only lamps and they painted it dark gray I guess they want to live in a cave, Anyway the best of luck redesigning your new home????

    Reply

  20. Patty says

    O-M-Gsh, I can see so much potential in this house, but the work oh my. I know you are up for it and it will be gorgeous. Thank goodness you don’t have to rush and move in then start working, I have done that and I would never do it again, it was like living out of a suit case for two years. It looks to me like someone did a terrible attempt to update the house in the 90’s with all that teal green and why would they install vanity lights in the kitchen, oh well whatever floats your boat. Where can I send a case of cheap beer you are going to need it and more haha. Can’t wait to see what you do and see if you are thinking along the same lines I am thinking.

    Reply

  21. Christina in FL says

    Jenna!!!! Freaking awesome 70’s Landing Pad!!!! I started humming the theme song from The Brady Bunch as I looked at the photos. 🙂 This is a total flash back for me … but where are the harvest gold (or avocado green) appliances? I see the trash compactor, brilliant use of wall paper, creative lighting and stunning wood paneling (which was all that and a bag of chips in the 70’s). I looked a cool place when I lived in Cleveland which still had the aforementioned appliances. Nope, not kidding. Built in ovens with the timer/clock and everything.
    You are SO going to love this place very step of the way. Even escavating the pool! 🙂
    BE A RENOVATING FREAK JENNA!!! :)))) I look forward to seeing progress photos. 🙂

    Reply

  22. Sally says

    That house has so much potential! I can not believe they filled in the pool!! If you do decide to rectify the pool, you should look into getting it changed over to a salt water pool. It is sooooo much better than chlorine. No red eyes, dry hair and skin. They are wonderful and so much easier to care for. Maybe there is hardwood under the carpeting? I mean, if they filled in the pool….who knows?

    Congratulations! It’s good that you can stay in your current home and work on the new one. Get all the cooties out, know what I mean? I am a germaphobe too.

    Reply

  23. Debe says

    WOWOWOWOWOWO you have some work to do…….why would they fill in the pool? Seriously….this looks like a challenge keep us updated this will be fun to watch. PS What kinda booze do you like being from Wisconsin I can make a mean Brandy Old Fashioned Sweet….and toss in some cheese curds and brats!

    Reply

  24. Brigitte says

    OMG, this house is huge! Grab your GPS before you go anywhere, sheesh. CONGRATULATIONS, it looks awesome! I can’t wait to see what you do with it! 🙂

    Reply

      • Brigitte says

        Yep, that master is GINORMOUS! Plenty of room to give to the Circus AND probably to update the master bath, too. Wow. I just CANNOT WAIT to see what you do with this place!

        Reply

  27. Sherry Fram says

    I put on my rose colored glasses but that wallpaper just kept shining through! I do not envy you getting all that down! And who with any sense at all fills in an in ground pool??? Sending you all the positive vibes I can! It will be great when you are done.

    Reply

  30. Helen Holley says

    Yep, a lot of work,lol! But it seems to be only cosmetic which is usually not a big deal. My first house was a 70’s style. Most of the house got a paint re-do,and wallpaper take down for the most part, but after that I absolutely loved it.. I’m currently renting but am also currently looking for another 70’s style. One reason these houses are so great is the space! Plus, they usually include a fabulous basement, which is what I want so I can turn that part of the house into a rental. Good luck with your new house, Jenna! And Congrats!

    Reply

  31. Olivia says

    Congrats on the new house! Very exciting! Have you considered painting the man cave wood walls? Looks awesome when done…. Can’t wait to watch your projects.

    Reply

  32. Sheresa says

    Wow those light fixtures are something else. I’m sure in it’s heyday this landing pad was the envy of every mullet loving neighbor. It’ll be gorgeous once it’s fixed up though. Can’t wait to see it on the flip side!

    Reply

  33. Erica@Designing Vibes says

    Sending positive vibes your way. I know this is going to be a stressful time for you, but I cannot wait to see what magic your work on the place. Yes, booze will get you through. Tequilla helped me through my first reno.

    Reply

  34. mary ballerin says

    “And that’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch” 😉 Congrats, Jenna and fam!! I like the exterior, there’s so much potential inside, and I like the future foyer with new railing. I’ll never figure out why people fill in a pool! The guy behind me had his fiberglass pool dug out and dirt filled in … I’d give to have had that cute pool, my brother had one just like it in his first home. I wish I had a blow-up ‘bathtub’ pool on sweltering days in summer, lol. Another saga begins, I know it will be fun to follow. The kitchen is probably your biggest challenge, aside from all that wallpaper. I only wallpapered one bathroom in 31 years here because I know the pain of changing it, luckily I used removable vinyl paper because, bathroom – it came off easily. Not sure you will have the same luck. I see some product giveaways ahead. 😉

    Reply

  35. DJ says

    Congratulations! A whole house full of blank canvas for you to “do your thang”. Love that you share the adventures with all of us!

    Reply

  36. Jill Butler says

    Congratulations! I see great potential, especially in your hands. I so enjoy your attitude,language and humor. You make this old fart laugh every time and I look forward to your posts.

    Reply

  37. Marisa Franca @ All Our Way says

    OMG!! This is such a plus-plus! Think of all the decorating you have to do, paint, furniture, partnerships you can get. You will be busy for YEARS!. Then you can go outdoors. Lordy, girl you’ve just fell into a boat load of opportunities. Yes indeed! Good for you! I’ll look forward to watching the decorations.

    Reply

  38. debra says

    How exciting! I can hardly wait to see the amazing transformation you have planned. I raise my gin and tonic to you and send you prayers and happy thoughts.

    Reply

  39. Skaie Knox says

    Congrats!!! Can’t wait to see whatcha do with the 70sLP! And…I’m kinda also looking forward to some renovation breakdown moments from ya. #gonnnabesomecrazyfunnyshit #meantwithblogsistahluv

    BTW…I’m really digg’n those light fixtures in your hall bathroom. If yaz wanna sell ’em, let meeze know!

    Reply

  40. Shirley says

    Congratulations! It’s a really big house & has so much potential. You are in such a great position to be able to stay in your old home while you fix this one up. Can’t wait to see how you put your stamp on it Jenna . And the stories & posts ….. You can do it!!! Breathe!!!

    Reply

  41. Sue says

    Ohhhhh. Myyyyy!!! Sure is some jenky design choices there. I know what sold you on the house though – the awesome use of bathroom fixtures in the kitchen and that jailhouse look in the bedroom! Snarkism aside, you’ll rock that place in no time. Congrats to you all on your new adventure. Fill that home with tons of laughter and love!

    Reply

  42. Missy J says

    Jenna,

    Yours is my most favorite blog of those I read. So funny! I can’t wait to see how your new home turns out-looks like you have great space to work with. Best of luck-looking forward to reading about your next adventure.

    Reply

  43. Amy says

    It’s going to be terrific! Good bones, nice light, great space, your fav neighborhood…bah, so it needs a little ‘freshening’ …easy-Peasy for you! Can’t wait to see the process! Congrats!

    Reply

  44. Arlo Elaine says

    What the H… I have never seen handles smack dab in the middle of the cabinet door..go figure, it has great spaces should be fun watching you transform it. May the force be with you.

    Reply

    • Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says

      Thanks, Arlo! I have seen handles in the middle, but not those kinds of handles. Those are obviously meant to be placed horizontally, not vertically since they are curved, but I guess the other homeowners liked that – to each their own!

      Reply

  46. MJ says

    How many years before the inlaws need an electric(ally) operated chair to ride up from the front door to the main floor? Is the tunnel bathroom wide enough to accommodate walkers?

    You have found a great house on which to work your magic. We’re going to enjoy seeing the changes.

    But one of the bathrooms in my house was way worse than the one you are bothered by.
    Not much better now but at least the shower walls are tiled (my first –and last– tile job) instead of the Masonite that was there.

    Have a ball, girl, and make it all yours.

    Reply

    • MJ says

      Oops! The ole gal is brain dead tonight. This is YOUR house, so you are the one who eventually will need the electric chair for the stairs! Unless you move to a retirement condo.LOL
      Here’s hoping the do something about that exterior green first thing……

      Reply

  47. KitsyKeelSmith says

    Well Jenna, looks like you have a boatload of work to do. Nice layout of the house (except the master and bath.)
    Now Bill will have another chance to decorate his own room. He did such a nice job on the current one. I just hope you will find time to keep us posted on what’s happening cuz you are going to be one busy gal. Keep the booze flowing and you will be ok.

    Reply

  49. Deb says

    I know you are up for this challenge.
    I can’t wait to see what miracles you work in the kitchen and baths.

    Please come up with a plan for that green on the outside as I inquired about a house that had the very same green with brick. They had chartruese
    on the inside of the front door…at least you don’t have that!!!

    Reply

  50. Paige says

    Congratulations! What a HUGE new home with endless possibilities. I can’t wait to watch you work your magic. I am so excited for you all that you found a house in your neighborhood that meets your entire family’s needs.

    Reply

  51. Candace says

    Am I the only weirdo who kinda likes the pendants in the hall bathroom?? Or the idea of them?

    Also, I would totally work with the Laundry Room color… warm wood/natural texture + gold + deep jewel colors (plum? navy??) + more white for balance. I think it could be awesome!

    Reply

  52. Julie says

    We came in that entrance the other day and saw you in the driveway. Then I noticed the “For Sale” sign was gone so I started wondering….

    Reply

  54. Marti Waddell says

    Jenna!!! How exciting!! I cannot wait to see what you do WITH ALL THAT ROOM!!! You will put your magic touch in every room and it will be wonderful!!!!

    Reply

  55. Montee says

    Can’t wait to see what you do with this! My husband and I bought a split in Red Bank 2 years ago when we made our move to Chattanooga. I was looking for a cute bungalow with character, a cute front porch, etc. but for some reason walked into this house and knew it was the one. It is a work in progress even though it really doesn’t need a lot. Hoping to do more this year. This past year I had our daughter’s wedding to plan and last year we were out of town for 6 months, so we have had a couple of interruptions when it comes to getting things done.

    Reply

    • Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says

      It takes time, doesn’t it?! There’s always something that pops up and delays your projects. Totally know what you mean! I’m excited about the renovation too! I just have to tell myself that it can’t all get done in a month like I think it can!! haha! I spent the whole day today removing wallpaper. ARGH!

      Reply

  56. sarah says

    Well, it has now become glaringly obvious that I’m stalking your 70’s pad; but it’s only because I’m a little in love with its potential and I want one for my very own. And after seeing the new lighting choices you’re currently looking at, I’m utterly compelled to see this reno through in its entirety. As I do so, please don’t take my overly opinionated choices on your selections as anything but love!!! I can’t wait to see what you do with it.

    Reply

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