My mother in law has a sunny yellow kitchen with white cabinets, and would like to replace the countertops and add a backsplash. She is drawn to the terra cotta colors... leaning towards silestones Coral Troya or Santa Fe brown. Has anyone used these silestones (have done a search and haven't found anything)? Or, does anyone have suggestions as to what color granite or silestone she should consider? In addition, what kind of backsplash would you recommend. She's concerned that the terra cotta colors won't go with the yellow, but wants something warm. Thanks!!!

Yes, I think it would. The only thing that bothers me is that the drawers have a lot of space around the sides of the molding and not much above the molding. I am struggling with this with deciding on my own cabinet style. When the space is even, the recessed part is smaller than I want, but I like the symmetry. So I am struggling. In short, the way these are done isn't wrong, just something I am not sure about. Also, this looks like applied molding (might not be), but with my cab guy that was more expensive. It could be different with this person. Overall, I like this and think it would be very nice. If it appeals to you, go for it. That is what I think we all need--an inspiration picture.

That photo of Tent Rocks is incredibly gorgeous. I read more about the national monument yesterday and definitely want to see it. Sable, thank you so very much for the very helpful suggestions! I hope you and your DH will be planning a return yourselves very soon. You're bringing back some memories to me now, as I do recall how beautiful the drive is into Los Alamos. I also remember how gorgeous the golden cottonwoods are in the fall. (And the rustling of the leaves! Is there a better sound than rustling, whispering cottonwood leaves? I think not.) We're going to have to rent The Milagro Beanfield War again. I know we've seen it before, but it's been a long time! I think I do remember going through Truchas at some point on a previous trip, but it's been so long since I've been out to New Mexico (and I do have "CRS Disease" - y'know, "Can't Remember Sh*t" - ) that I'm thinking much of it will feel new to me again after all this time. This itinerary is still very much a work in progress, but here's what I have so far. Would definitely like to ensure that we make the best use of our time by combining a couple of different sights per day if possible - still being mindful of the "don't overwhelm him" mantra I keep repeating in my head re DH. ;-) Day 1: Arrive late afternoon Day 2: Spend the day in Santa Fe (buy groceries for condo!) Day 3: Petroglyph National Monument Day 4: Taos: Take the high road up and make stops along the way TBD; visit pueblo (call ahead to ascertain opening hours), drive out over Rio Grande Gorge Bridge; drive back down 285 thru Ojo Caliente - possible stop at mineral springs there Day 5: Jemez Springs? Still undecided. Pretty drive, but if we do Ojo Caliente on Day 4, we won't do the mineral springs in Jemez. Could just take the drive and detour at some of the other pueblos going and returning, maybe plan to have lunch in Jemez. ETA: Would also be interested in a visit/trek to Jemez Falls and possibly exploring other trails in the area. Day 6: Los Alamos / Bandelier. We'll spend most of the day hiking in the monument. Day 7: Spend another day in Santa Fe - maybe. Might look into a half day trip in the morning, then spend the afternoon in SF and have dinner out there that evening Day 8: Tent Rocks National Monument Day 9: Head home Any recommendations/suggestions on this tentative schedule?

Yes, Fori, rugs and a cat :-). Lynn, I love you home and think it is very inviting and cozy-looking. I'm looking for that look and feel. It is out there - maybe someone is going to move to be near their grandkids - a win-win for everyone :-D. Ida, you and Lynn are both right on with your perspectives. Some homes here are all about the view and others seem to be creating a cozy shelter from the elements with outdoor living areas to enjoy. There seems to be a contemporary trend in a lot of the new homes being built.