Turning everything upside down for new carpet

Replacing our carpet, was a HUGE amount of work.  Really it felt like we moved.  Without the boxes or the moving truck.  It was one big shuffle.  Thank goodness my (amazing, work horse, huge helpers) in-laws were here and happy to chip in.  We couldn't have done it without them! Here are the steps:

Step one: Send big kids to school and little kids to a friend's.  Empty all bedrooms.  Take apart beds, dressers, empty closet floors.  Plan for large sleepover type arrangements for the night.

Step two:  Start filling garage.  (Note: it's already pretty full).

Step: Prepare for things get put in places they should never be and clutter/stuff takes over the entire house for 48 hours with more things being out of place than in place.  I'm having to breath slowly at this.

 

Step three:  Say "Hasta la vista" to the OLD carpet and pad.  Many memories on that carpet, but also many small accidents too (you know spills, throw up, etc.).  Good bye...

Step four:  Smile as you see your new carpet, light brown with brown flecks, appropriately titled Cookie Dough.  Watch the installer (ours was Maui who we had some great conversations with) unroll and cut the new carpet.

Step five:  Wait for the installers to get the bedrooms finished.  Knowing your work has just begun.  Next, the rooms will need to be put back together (way more work than unloading them in random places).  Then empty the living and family room into the garage, preparing for the next day.

Step six:  Recognize it's Saturday and all kids will be at home.  Worry about entertaining five children and keeping them out of the way, but then realize there is no need.  The installers and the entire process are completely entertaining.  Know that at least one child will step on a tack strip at least one time, leaving several small holes in the bottom of their feet.

Step seven:  Put your entire house back together.  Tell your in-laws several times how sorry you are how sore they are and how much you appreciate all their help.  Threaten your children to NEVER throw-up or spill on this carpet.

Step eight:  ENJOY your new carpet.  If that new car smell is a fond memory, long ago faded...it's OK because this new carpet smell is amazing. 

Also included in the enjoying (although not photographed) celebrate by doing carpet angels on your new pad that is so cushy the guests may not need beds!!