Remodeling on any scale is both tiring, at times expensive and discouraging, but really a lot of fun too. I'm glad you decided to stay, I can't picture you in town. I know I don't ever want to go anywhere where my horses aren't right out the window. :~D
The horses and riding were a big consideration. I told Mack I could deal with that IF I could board them at a place that had some open areas to ride for short ride, (not just arena) and not far from this area where I could trailer when I had more time and wanted longer rides. There are a few stables around that would have worked. It wouldn't have been the same, no doubt, but I think it could have been workable.
I'm like any woman I guess. I wouldn't mind a new house, BUT I also think a complete makeover would be just as good. Especially this time we'll have a bit more funds to draw on then we had before.
I think if we take our time and don't set major time frames to be done by, it will be OK. When we first built this house we had to move in before it was finished, we were raising kids, and Mack was working like 50-60 hours a week. It was hard to stay enthuisastic about finishing. Took 17 years, and then it was done in the most inexpensive and simplest, plainest way. This time we have alot more time to devote to the job, and more funds.
Becky