Ruralite Cafe: Published 05/15/03

By Lisa Majors-Duff - News Editor

Remodeling projects seem to never quit

Backing up a few months, I realized when Niki started third grade that she was only moments away from spending a great deal of time in the bathroom. Girls, I remember from my own childhood, tend to primp, especially when they share classroom space with boys.

Since our house had only one bathroom, I saw Niki's soon-to-be obsession with hair styles and makeup as a potential conflict with my need simply to brush my teeth in the morning. Just like that, a second bathroom became a necessity.

Without exception, everyone I lamented to during the construction project had a similar story to tell about cost overruns, delays and debris. Everyone shared my pain, and I discovered I would not wish a major remodeling project on my worst enemy.

Once the master bathroom was completed and the new whirlpool tub was whirling, I gave little thought to the "other" bathroom. Again, those who have gone through the building process know that feeling when it's over, that "I'll-never-touch-another-paint-brush-as-long-as-I-live" feeling of freedom.

That was five months ago and Niki's bathroom stood neglected, even though I promised her she'd have a say in its rebirth, within reason, of course. I would not tolerate, I told her, baby animals, horses or fish of any sort on the walls or shower curtain. In fact, I said, the less paint I was required to apply to the room, the better I'd like it.

Spurred on by a visitor who felt no qualms about pointing out the eyesore the second bathroom had become, I dove in, determined to finish the project last weekend. Once Niki and I decided on a non-mammal theme of lavender flowers, the assignment began to take shape. We'd need some supplies - a wallpaper border, new towel rack and toilet seat - and something had to be done to hide the 1970s "gold" tub and shower combination.

I knew that short of pulling it out, paint was my only option. And thanks to the friendly home improvement store paint specialist down the road, I got what I needed to cover the fiberglass tub and transform it from gory to glorious. I also got three separate "highs" from the chemicals involved in the process and the lack of ventilation in the room.

I have to hand it to Niki for offering what turned out to be the key ingredient for sprucing up her bathroom. After taking the bi-fold doors off the closet and reusing them to build a shelf unit, Niki recommended we replace the doors with a bead curtain. Some 1970s-era accessories, it seems, are back in style, and the beads put the project over the top.

Niki christened the "new" bathroom on Mother's Day by taking a shower. While I wouldn't let her use the guest towels, she was still thrilled with our combined accomplishment, which will make this Mother's Day stand out for years to come.

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