Project Progress

"You have your work cut out for you." These were the famous last words of my husband who had been living among boxes and disarray for 4 weeks before I arrived. In return, I asked him to PLEASE not take anything out of the boxes because I would take care of it in an orderly fashion when I arrived. Wouldn't ya know that I get a phone call a few days later from him -- "The kitchen is really bad. I tried to make it all fit, but it doesn't." If communication is the key to a good marriage...

I don't mean to sound cocky but I knew I'd make it all work. Organization is my thing; put me in a Container Store and I'm a very happy girl. I'd be a professional organizer if it didn't involve touching other people's dirt. So when I woke up at 3am ripe with jet lag my first night here Project Progress began. I started with the kitchen -- nothing like proving the hubby wrong! -- and then worked on my clothes. With those two things out of the way, I focused on clearing out some floor space by hiding all the non-everyday items -- suitcases, Christmas decorations, wrapping paper, etc. I'll spare you the rest -- you're probably starting to doze off.

Anyway, in a mere 48 hours this place was livable. Next up on the agenda is paint -- which is strangely a rare find in HK (they only carry pastels and non-toxic paint is pretty much non-existent), hanging of the drapes (must find a drill that can withstand the hardcore Chinese concrete walls), and pictures.

Here are some before and after shots. They're not true "after" shots, but give you an idea of what I've done so far. (If you don't see a big difference, please keep it to yourself!)

Guest Bedroom BEFORE:


Guest Bedroom AFTER





Dining Room BEFORE





















Dining Room AFTER






Living Room BEFORE






















Living Room AFTER (don't mind the frustrated hubby who's been dealing with finances in both US and HK!)





Oh and I finally got around to clearing out the guest shower... so book your tickets! Casa Birardi HK is open for business!