Fireplace progress update

Here we have the fireplace when we first saw the house.  

It was a lovely 60's painted white brick with the lovely brass doors.  

In this picture you can see the hideous popcorn ceilings that Mike removed, first thing!

This is how we have lived with the fireplace for almost 2 years now.  

We had the hardest time deciding what to put over the bricks that were not covered with drywall.  It has not been ideal, but I am glad we have waited to find exactly what we want to do here.  

So without further adue here is the inprogress results.  

Keep in mind we are not finished, but just made a giant step forward into finishing.

Here it is in half of its glory!

I found our inspiration in a Better Homes and Garden's magazine (Jan 2011 issue).  It has a gorgeous bluestone slab,which was sadly out of our meger budget.

We decided that we could pour a color concrete slab instead.  Mike researched the internet for a few weeks and after reading books and watching DVD's from the library, Mike got some kind family members to come over and help us.  

We waited almost the 4 weeks recommend before Mike and his brother put it in place.  

Chloe loves her new stage to perform original songs and dances for the family.  

Mike and I are very pleased with how well it turned out...on the first try!

Now we are just waiting for the new slabs for the fireplace surround to cure before they get installed.  Then build the mantle (I'm so excited about the mantle!), re-mud, paint and decorate!  We might have it done by Easter (also Mike's birthday this year).  That would mean we would have it done one month shy of living in this house 2 years.  Fingers crossed it happens!