Loren, it's good to meet you. Thanks for reading!

Cindy, yes, we can "survive" many less-than-perfect situations, can't we? It's good to hear that you made it through with one bathroom (but wait, I have three daughters, not two — maybe that's the tipping point?). 

TJ, "stewardship" is a great word to bring into the discussion, especially when an old house (1914) is involved. It's good for our kids to see how much work it is to care for something the right way, rather than thinking their parents have magic wands that they wave to get everything done. And showing them the transformations/renewals/redemptions that are possible — there's a great lesson in that, too.

Jane, *sometimes* we're good about getting the girls involved and working together. Too often, though, I'm tempted to just let the kids play while we do the work, because I think it will be easier. It's something we're trying to be better about.

Jeb, the whole patience vs. instant gratification issue is such an important one, on many levels (a big one being the shocking amount of credit card debt so many Americans, including very young ones, face). I really like that you brought up "creation" as an alternative to "consumption," too. As always, my readers give me so much more to chew on...

Daisy, your "cubicle wall" sounds a lot like the one we bought. And you're right — small spaces can be cozy, which can be really wonderful. Large spaces are over-glorified in our culture.

Lisa, it's interesting (and encouraging) that so many people seem to be rediscovering what you said: "sometimes the less expensive choice is the most fun." That's a key lesson in this all — that a life of "making do" doesn't have to be one of angst-filled drudgery.