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Tales From The Set

Letter From Debbie

Hello Everybody;

This Facelift started off a bit shakily as our beloved SIVART truck once again refused to start. But undaunted, the intrepid crew arrived by taxi, on bicycles, and on foot to begin the four-day makeover. We were heading for Pat's house, to unmuddle her living and dining rooms.

Her family and best friend adored this woman who gives so freely of her time and is filled with a contagious love for life. They had begged us to rescue Pat from her overly cluttered home.

There was a huge amount of painting to be done as nothing in the house had been touched in twenty years. So by the third day panic set in as time ran out. Even the carpenters had paintbrushes thrust into their hands to finish up the miles of trim and walls filled with stripes.

I love the breezy and upbeat mood that is central to Caribbean design and Pat's home was the perfect place for it. Pastel pink walls and sky blue ceilings with wispy clouds transformed the living and dining rooms.

Pat's daughter and son were shocked when I told them our plan to cover the old wood and brick fireplace with cement, but by the time talented Jim was finished stenciling and painting they were completely won over.

The highlight of the Facelift was the arrival of a barbershop quartet, musician friends of Pat's, and an Irish songster who lifted our spirits and got our feet tapping madly as we scrambled to complete all the projects.

On Pat's return, while she stared in awe at her dazzling new rooms, she was greeted by another choir, this happy group from her church, and I'd say this Facelift ended on many beautiful and joyous notes.

Love Debbie

Letter From Pat

Dear Debbie

It's been six weeks since Debbie and the fabulous Facelift Gang visited my home. I'm still on Cloud Nine, especially when I gaze at my living and dining room ceilings, which are now azure blue with little wisps of clouds floating around -- a sentimental reminder of the skies in Barbados where I grew up.

After I came home, I was truly shocked and touched to find out that a girlfriend had written in the request, and together with my kids, had conspired to send me away for a few days. Arriving back from the airport, I fiddled for what seemed forever trying to find my house keys, and finally opened the door to be greeted by VERY bright lights. I felt like a deer caught in the headlights -- not so much afraid, since no one seemed to be coming AT me, but rather puzzled.

Then I saw Debbie coming toward me and at that moment my pulse rate went way up! It was a wonderful homecoming. The refurbished "West Wing" as I now call it is light and bright with beautifully painted walls, elegant drapes, a classy fireplace, pretty, pretty accessories, and doors to die for … wow! The east wing, by contrast is still dark and dingy, but I am now motivated to bring light and colour into my life.

Not only has the Facelift brightened up my home, it has also deepened my relationship with my children, and cemented many friendships. My granddaughter Emma, age 2, is mesmerized when she sees the show on TV. I think she remembers you all, fondly.

A (Hardt) heartfelt THANK YOU to Debbie and the entire gang, and may you have many great shows in the future.

Lots of love to you all,
Pat Hardt