Glad is was able to brighten up someone else's day. Brandymulvaine: I do not get full sun in any part of this garden because it is north facing so your sun should be fine for poppies. Linda: This does re-seed but not readily. This patch, which is perennial, came from one plant, which I was told would not "take". I have had these for about 10 years and they are still manageable. This is the first year I have seen a few extras behind the clump. They certainly do not turn up 'everywhere'. Tiffy: I know what you mean about orange 'popping' at this time of year. These have forget-me-nots in front, dame's rocket (mostly pale lilac) to the left, Ajuga reptans (blue/purple) to the right, and lilacs in bloom behind and overhead so it's a lovely sight. I grew some from seed last year. Planted in Feb. and had 2 blooms by spring, but by Fall they were 5 plants. I planted them out in fall, but they did not bloom this year, maybe because of the late planting and the fact that they are near my day lily patch which does not get very much full sun. I will put you on my list for seeds and will send you as soon as I harvest them. Last year Lakehead University took all my seeds and the ones from the year before. Apparently it is an old variety and not readily available. Northerner.

Knew it was Lake Michigan immediately - anyone who has ever lived on/near it would know. One of the few things I miss. Sounds as if you have moved away from painting the house - good call. It really is beautiful as is but I understand feeling it needs *something*. All the suggestions for changes with color, shutters and maybe alterations to the portico (although I'm not sure that's needed) will make a big impact. I'd be inclined to loosen up the landscaping a little and replace some of the tight clipped shrubs - are they old yews perhaps? I'd love to see some grasses worked in. The movement and looser structure will do a lot to make the house feel more relaxed in place. And you have the perfect location to have the sunrise catch the grasses and their seed heads in the fall to make magic with color. Can't tell from the photos but if your setting sun isn't fully obscured, it will make the grasses glow.

I like your hood - probably because it is similar to mine:) I refreshed with new quartz counters, "short apron" apron front sink (which can be installed on a standard sink base cabinet) cream subway tile backsplash and under cabinet lighting. The under cabinet lighting is the most useful thing I did - with the sink a close second behind. Here is my wood kitchens idea book - it has both newer and older, refreshed kitchens. Perhaps there will be some inspiration for you: https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/75202366/list/wood-kitchens

Third vote for the running bond tile installation. It will absolutely work with the paper - and not steal the show. It’s a background player. This is all looking very lovely.