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Monday, December 29, 2008

Yes, Yes! I WILL Get To That But...

I WILL get around to posting some Christmas photos and stories aplenty but do indulge me for a moment...pretty please? Uh huh, I KNEW you would. You see, I have fallen in love. No, NOT with my husband although I am still IN love with him after 32 years in spite of his terribly messy tendencies. And no, not with Brian Dennehy either although I...well...I...YOU know...I, well...okay...ahem.
No, this love story is not about a man, a dog, a tree or a car. It is not about jewels or cats or, well...it COULD be about the spiffy new camera that Bill surprised me with on Christmas morning. (See why I am STILL in love with the man?) Oh baby am I in LOVE with it! I have had such fun playing with it and gosh but it is going to be amazing and yes I adore my husband for doing this. The man saved a little here and a little there for a year and totally shocked me which is not an easy thing to do. I thought the days of such delicious surprises like this were over! Nope. He got me good with it, the tears fell and happiness reigned supreme. As much as I LOVE this new camera (It's name is Dennis by the way...), this story is not about dear Dennis.
Nope, it is about a house. And not even about Rabbit Run Cottage although I DO love it here.
But I have fallen head over heels in love with another house. Now you must understand that
I have seen plenty of houses that I liked a lot, some I even loved, some I was rather glib about. But this is the first time I have actually *fallen in total LOVE* with a brick and mortar structure.
It is terrible really. Shameful even. I know the housing market is in the dumper and we would probably never be able to sell our cottage and even if we could, it would be a hardship on Grace to move. Dan works close by Rabbit Run and Bill's bus stop is just down the street. We absolutely could never find more lovely neighbors than we have now, the schools here are top notch, shopping is close by, Mom and my brother's family is near and, well, d'uh. This broad knows it ain't gonna happen. But I also know how much my blog friends love houses and decorating and are gonna fully understand how I am feeling. Right?
The story begins Saturday night. We took Grace and her BFF, the glorious Miss K, for a drive and to see Clifton Mill's Christmas light display. It was unusually warm for December 27th and

it was a perfect night to go.

We walked around, took lots of pictures (I had Dennis well in tow!)
and just enjoyed the heck out of ourselves. The girls oohed and awed at the lights, ate a soft pretzel and twirled and giggled themselves silly. We even met the sweetest young couple who, after having just been married, came to the mill to have their wedding photos taken. Of course,

I took one as well...aren't they adorable?
Clifton Mill is located in the tiny town of Clifton, Ohio. Clifton is the birthplace of one Mr. Woody Hayes, legendary football coach at Ohio State University (Go Bucks!) and that alone is pretty swell. It sits just a few miles from John Bryant State Park, Clifton Gorge, Young's Dairy and the small, arty town of Yellow Springs: home of blogger and artist extraordinaire, Jafabrit, Ms. Corrine herself, the deliciously fabulous Ha Ha Pizza and

the best food server in the world (according to my daughter and her BFF) one wild, very cool guy named Bill.

No, not MY Bill, another Bill! Like Grace would ever think HER Dad was cool...not likely dear hearts but I digress...

But when I say *tiny town* I MEAN tiny. I don't think that Clifton HAS a traffic light or it could be referred to as a "one stop light burg". Nope and no grocery, no Starbucks, not much of anything except a few lovely old buildings, the mill, a few *in dire need of rehab* houses and new the love of my life. *sigh*

After basking in the glow of millions of tiny holiday lights we decided to pop into Yellow Springs for a pizza and hopped in the old mini van. Just as we headed out of town I spotted him. There he was in all in red. No, NOT Santa Claus you sillies! My house. Him. The love of my life.

It was hard to see clearly in the dark but from what I saw I was a goner. The little candles twinkling in the windows seemed to beckon to me...*sigh*..."Susie Q...here I am, the house which, until now, has lived only in your dreams..."

Oh we got pizza, and yes it was soooo good. I loved listening to the girl's sweet chatter and talking to my husband. Still, where was my head? Miles back with my house. *sigh*

When Bill and the kids had gone to bed, when the house was still, Susie Q jumped onto the computer and looked up the MLS. My ardor only grew stronger. It was affordable, completely rehab-ed from top to bottom and it screamed to me in such a loud voice that my ears almost bled. Ouch. We are talking Pete Townsend on guitar, in concert mega watt loud folks.

And if all of this was not sweet enough, it seems my house has some historical significance to it.

The Shot Tower....or otherwise known in some circles as Susie Q's one true love...This is the oldest building in Clifton, built between 1805 and 1810 by William Bradfute and his uncle, John Knox. These photos were taken in 2006 during a complete renovation of the building by its new owner. While these days it doesn't look much like a tower, it once had a wooden structure attached to the side to extend its height enough to manufacture shot. Molten lead was dropped through a sieve down what is now the chimney and into a vat of cold water. The cold water caused the drops of hot lead to form into spheres. It was owned by the Freeman family for nearly 100 years during which time it had several rooms added on. The photo on the right shows elements of the original structure. Once the additions were peeled away it became obvious that at one time there was no inner staircase, the only way to get to the second floor was from outside.

Photo taken during rehab by Pam Adams

Photo taken during rehab by Pam Adams

So today, after running a few errands, Grace and I decided to take a little drive. The sun was beaming and it felt so good to be outside. Somehow, imagine that, we found ourselves in Clifton again. The house was calling you know who...

There he was, at the corner of Clay Street and the honorary avenue, Hayes Way (for good old Coach Woody himself)...

...MY house.

The perfect spot for my little bookshop/photo gallery. No overhead, open when I am home...oooh. Can you see the goosebumps?

Oh but he was pretty. Charming would not be an incorrect adjective to use here. He absolutely reeks of charm! Right Woody? And Woody knows all about reeking charm. After all those years working with cute, young, sweaty football players don'tcha know.

Across the street to the right you see THIS sight.

Yes that WOULD be an Antique Mall.
Directly to the right you will see...
The old Clifton Opera House which still features local musicians of various genre.
From the living room and master bedroom front windows you will see this sight... The gazebo and side view of this historic building.
Look on down the road and you will see Clifton Mill.

As we made one final round of the little town Grace noticed a car pulling up to MY house.

*Gasp* Curses! A realtor and 2 clients! How dare they! That is MY house! Mine I tell you!

I grumbled, "Tell them to get away from my house Grace!" So my daughter, who is still trying to figure out American nuance, sarcasm and wit, leans out of the window and shouts, "You go away from my Mom's own house!" The last thing I saw was my dust and 3 people with gapping mouths looking at me from my rear view mirror.

*sigh* Heck. My stomach is in a knot and I actually have a twinge of pain. Oh how I want to call a realtor and go see the inside for myself but I don't want to bother anyone with that. I find myself actually green with jealousy, not envy, no envy is sweeter, but hard core, rampant, evil jealousy over the folks who were going inside today. Could they seriously be considering it? Dang. *sigh* It is a dream, a pipe dream at best. Living there would be inconvenient for 3 family members, our house would probably never sell in this market and I doubt that the other 3 humans who live with me share the same crazy affection for the house that I have. Oh but I do love it. I adore it. And I can still dream right?

Love and Hugs,

Susie Q

37 comments:

Harbor Hon said...

My heart aches for you! That is one sweet house! I adore the inside and they did a really nice job with the rehab. I could just imagine pulling up to your little shop and being invited in by you and the Kipster. But we CAN dream ... they can't take that away from us. Hope it comes true someday. xxoo

Lisa Pogue said...

Wow, that house really is stunning. Good for Grace for snapping at those folks, heehee...

Neabear said...

What a house! And all that history! That would definitely be a cool place to live. Keep dreaming Susie Q.

Salmagundi said...

A wonderful house with charm, history, everything!! Why is it a HE and not a SHE? I'm just curious. Hold onto your dreams - you never know! When I've fallen so in love with something, I always remember a child's prayer - "Please give me what I ask, Dear Lord, if you be glad about it. But, if you think it is not for me, please help me do without it!" Sally

FrenchGardenHouse said...

sigh. It's so darn perfect, if only it was a little less so. MOI is even tempted. A little store on the side. oh dear. and so darn cute. And red. and in a darling town. It's a beautiful dream, sweetie. really.and I love Sallie's prayer.:)
xo Lidy

Lilly said...

That is a beautiful house. Keep dreaming because dreams do come true. This was a great post and you have a great husband. Loved how he surprised you with the camera. Wonderful!!!

Becca Watson said...

Thats a really pretty house! I wish I could find something like that here.. *sigh*

Omah's Helping Hands said...

Oh wow! What a charming place, the mill, the antique mall, all of it! The house, wow, now that is something to dream about. Hey, one never knows what could be in store for you. ;)

Cute how Grace hollered out the window for you. I'll keep my fingers, toes, eyes, hair, and what ever else I can come up with crossed for you. Hee hee, oh wait, can't type with the fingers crossed, and can't see my mistakes with eyes crossed, oh well, legs and toes are crossed. ;) Loved this post, and congrats on Dennis!

Omah's Helping Hands said...

I have an award for you at my blog. The award is because I do feel your blog is cool, and so are you. I love your way with words, your personality, putting laughter into life, and the list goes on. Love ya.

nikkicrumpet said...

Awwww If anyone deserves that house you do! What can it hurt to just peek inside.....other than making you more crazy for it. I know the feeling of falling in love with a house...we lost my dream house. But then something better came along. I can see why you love it though...it is charming...and it's surrounded by beautiful history!

Terri Steffes said...

I so share your dream... but Bob doesn't so it probably won't happen. I love your sweet house!

bj said...

ooo, Susie Q...I want that house for you sooooo bad. It is just about the most precious thing...and RED to boot. Oh, my....
I can just hear Grace hollaring out the car window....so cute.
I foound a house once, a long time ago, that I fell in love with. Way too much money, tho. From then on, I decided not to ever look at houses again...like you, our cottage is located just right between our 2 kids and shopping, doctors, everything.
But, you are right....we CAN dream...
love, bj

SmilingSally said...

That is an unusual house; no wonder you're drooling.

Carolyn said...

Oh.... I love Clifton!! Such a cute little old town. The house is really nice! I can see you living there. If it is meant to be it will be!

Anonymous said...

Thankyou for the tour, beautiful pictures. I have also fallen in love with that house, it is adorable.
Dreams come true if you want them too!

Unknown said...

OH WOW! What a FIND!!!! It's just too good to be true..I love to find things like that and dream about the possibilities. Right now might not be the right time but if you have a dream and a strong desire I would say, keep looking and dreaming maybe circumstances will be right ONE DAY! What a beautiful day to drive around a dream!

SaraG said...

Great post. I tried to talk the Hubby into going to Clifton Mill's this year and he didn't agree. Darn!
I really really want to go.
Congratulations on Dennis!! What type of camera is he? I got a Nikon D60 for my bday last May. Just love it. I also have a Kodak Z712IS. It is a great camera too!
You take care.

CIELO said...

Beautiful house! It just need a wonderful garden.... ;)

Have a lovely day Susie!

cielo

Latharia said...

Oh, wow. That house is amazing. Maybe you should put down some tacks to discourage others from visiting YOUR house. :D

And do make time to come see some theatre in Chicago. It's totally worth it! :D

Anonymous said...

What an awesome house! Goodness, your story made me laugh out loud, something I needed. xoxo

Anonymous said...

The house is so beautiful. I can see why you would want it. I hope somehow you get it. All of your pictures were lovely. I hope you and your family have a wonderful New Year.

Tammy said...

I can see why you love it so much! Those photos are stunning with the lights too...

Hope you had a wonderful Christmas!
~Tammy

Wendster said...

btw ... those Santa photos and captions you did were hilarious. LOL!

Bonnie said...

I KNOW why you fell in love with that house. I fell in love with it too. So much so that I mentioned it to my husband and I will be showing him you blog. Not that we will be able to buy it and move to Ohio, but that would be great, too.

Missy Glave said...

Oh Sue ... I've so enjoyed catching up on your blog.

This is the MOST loveliest of houses ... I think you should RUN, not walk to call the realtor.

I can just see the lovely shop you would create with that darling additional space!

Kathleen Grace said...

Congratulations on your new camera. I know you will put it to goo duse:>) The house is adorable! The place for your shop, the cute little door between the house and the shop, it's all lovely. What cn it hurt to ask for a tour?

Mockingbird Hill said...

Dearest Sue...wishing you & yours a very wonderful 2009..Happy New Year!

As always,
Cassie

Sharon said...

I can see why you would love that house..........just every thing you would need......a dream can come true if you wish enough. I love this post and also want to wish you and yours a wonderful new year.......2009

Jeanie said...

Totally fabulous house! Oh, yeah! Dreams are good -- sometimes they even come true (not always on schedule, but you never know!)

Wishing you a gloriously happy new year and thanks for so many magical moments in 2008 through your blog!

Mom2fur said...

Just stopped by to wish you the Happiest New Year Ever!

Janet said...

Sue,

Don't you know someone who has a friend that is a curious Realtor who would like to "preview" the house?? You know that if I was just a smidge closer or had an Ohio RE License I would get you in that house in a heartbeat. We would look in every nook and cranny and then you could lull yourself to sleep at night decorating the whole place ( with B.D.) in mind!!

Janet

Sing4joy said...

Your house is perfectly charming. Wouldn't it be cool if you could pick it up and put it on top of your cottage? At least until the kids move out and its original location wouldn't be so inconvenient to the others. Perhaps for now you could be content with turning the pictures of it into a poster and staring at it dreamily whenever the mood strikes you. Or would that be weird?

Anonymous said...

Hello Sue! You are incredibly talented! I love your blog...your writings and photos! Fabulous and beautiful! Ahhhh...your dream home is beautiful! But I also love your Rabbit Run Cottage :)
Happy New Year and Blessings!
Sharon Kershner

Justabeachkat said...

I can see why you're drooling. Dreams do come true...so keep on dreaming. I hope your dream comes true.

Hugs!
Kat

Melissa said...

There is a house in Memphis, Tudor-style, that made me develop a lump in my throat the first time I saw it. When I first got married (and moved 500 miles away) my sister took a picture and put it in a frame she had decorated with lots of old buttons and trinkets which held special significance to me. It is one of my prized possessions!

Rue said...

WE ALMOST MOVED THERE AND BOUGHT THAT HOUSE!! Can you believe it??? Rich and I thought about going to see it, but we didn't because I want to live where he works. That was so weird that I got goosebumps when I saw your post LOL

Buy it!!

Hurry!!!!

love you,
rue

Anonymous said...

LOL @ Grace, too funny!