The Kitchen

I grew up in northern Minnesota, in summer cabins that were lined in knotty pine. It's one of the warmest, friendliest, most comforting looks I know of. So I wanted that in my own new kitchen.

The walls are still light, but I'm looking forward to the day they mellow into that honey-gold hue.

Tom Wagler did all the cabinetry. He and his family are part of a large Mennonite population here, and they are impeccable craftsmen. Tom delivered the cabinets one late afternoon in December, and piled them in the kitchen for installation the next day. We went in to look at them after he'd left, and noticed a simple, philosophical Bible verse written prominently on the bottom side of a drawer that was sitting on end so we could clearly see it. A nice personal touch.

Our countertops are Cambria (brand) quartz. The stainless steel sink has two bowls--the big one is about 10 inches deep and big enough to accommodate a cookie sheet. The other one is small.

All our appliances came from Lowes. I'm having fun with the double wall oven, both of which have convection features. I'm finding that convection cooking really is faster and better than traditional baking.

The cooktop is a smooth ceramic electric, on the island. I wanted it that way so I could stand there and cook, while looking at Don who'd typically be sitting at the eating nook. Much nicer than having my back turned to him, particularly if we're trying to converse.

A downdraft on the island pops up when you push a button.

The floor is a rustic-looking, reddish-brown ceramic tile with dark gray grout.