It's a beautiful speech - and then it was mostly localized and people were whacking at each other, but now it's so impersonal and nasty, maybe it will get to be too much, maybe our children's children will get it Maybe Peace

Kate, that was thoughtful of you to post this for your fellow Americans to read. Being Canadian, I'm only aware of the general idea of the Declaration, but having celebrated my own country's birthday on July 1st I am very aware of how very, very lucky those of us on both sides of the border are that we live in such wonderful countries. Just a brief look at any newscast can reassure us of that. We aren't perfect,and have many problems to deal with from time to time, but we do have the rights to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of happiness. Happy Independence Day to you all!

Owlface- Sorry for the delay..I had assessments as well as observations made for a longer then expected day! I too am in Minnesota...Orono--- Here are 2 pictures....they are NOT any means suitable for framing! Taken just for posterity sake :-) As you can see we went with 36" white Shaker, full overlay. All the cabinets came finished on both sides. All soft close. We have yet to finish the fine details-crown molding, some kick toe fronts and couple end fillers. We did get all supplies, parts/pieces from Cabinets madeEZ just haven't trimmed everything all out. I have to select some hardware---having full overlay door fronts make it a real challenge to open without-I really thought that would be my last thing to have to decide on...I am not diggin anything at our local big box stores. Make shift counter tops are TEMPORARY! plywood by the range-real high class! Although my DH did paint the plywood black to get idea of having black counters. The opposite side a $30 remnant from Menards but I do have running water in the kitchen...better then making coffee in the bathroom! I am found your post by looking for advice on granite honed vs leather. At this point thinking I am going Black Pearl/Black Absolute with the leather finish. Going to make on last run to a new granite yard I just heard about tomorrow after school. I have looked at granite suppliers in Plymouth, Burnsville and New Hope. Why not even it out with a trip out to Rogers?? Have you decided on counters yet? Have you priced them out? Hope this helped...If you have suggestions on granite or hardware please share I am getting a bit crazy with this remodel!

... I see a car winding up the driveway Up to your parents' place The old man looks up from his raking As the color drains from your mama's face Cryin' softly by the window now While your daddy shakes the soldiers hands Their taillights disappear into the woods below He's frozen in the doorway where he stands In the twilight, in the silent snow ...