Cedar is a naturally dark wood. It's suppose to be bug resistant and the smell deters moths from chewing on clothing. I agree with the others that paint might be your best option BUT before you go that route make sure that it isn't the flooring or the postion of the room and windows itself that is really making it seem dark. Changing out the flooring will be quicker and easier than sanding, priming and painting will be. Really take a good look at where the room is and what kind of landscaping is on the exterior of the house that might be making the room feel dark. You might only need to trim out a few bushes or a tree to get the light you want. You might also find that no matter what you do there isn't enough light in that room just because of the way it's postioned with the sun. In that case you may want to change how you use the room before you redecorate it.

I haven't read through the post - but one thing I can tell you - is that you may be making a 'costly mistake' by coming here to this dilemma forum, particularly with the pics you have posted - because the pics in no way, shape, form, or fashion clearly show your space. You even say that the space is 'not as dark as it appears in the pics' - so, really - how can you expect to receive any kind of accurate assessment - even under the best of circumstances, which TBH this forum is not. You are going to get all kinds of advise here - some of which may be good, and some of which not so much... and then you are going to have to weed through it all - and this advise is being given to you based upon pics that are barely viewable - so keep that in mind. I will say that your space looks beautiful, and the architectural features of the space are beautiful. I think the only thing I might change would be countertops - to a marble, cultured marble, marble-like quartz - or something to that effect. It could be granite. But would be light/white. And it is just a general fact that light/white counters with dark cabinets will lighten a space. But I really have absolutely no idea, based on your pics, what color your countertops even are - in terms of specific color - because I can barely see them. And I have absolutely no idea what your floor looks like, either. There are many things you can do with lighting to lighten a space, as well. Really - you and your husband need to hire a professional - or professionals for this.

Thank you I will try......I'm not good with this stuff:). Let me try tomorrow during the daylight. I will send them then. Thanks Much

White Dove is beautiful and quite bright. Do you want it less gray? Then you probably want something like BM Simply White or stark like BM Ultra White. Messing with formulas is never a good idea. Go with another brand if you don't like what BM has to offer. White can be a nightmare. My sister and I were each redecorating our houses at the same time. Between us we had 32 different color samples of just white! She settled on BM White Dove and I ended up with SW Greek Villa, neither color looked good in the other's home. Next time, I will definitely hire a pro. Hope that helps :)