Come On By and Tickle the Ivories

Look what we tossed up the stairs this week!

Every condo needs an antique white upright piano, doesn't it?
Well, all the "Beach Shack Chic" ones certainly do.
It (the piano, that is) is now located in the general vicinity of the pool table - another BSC essential.

You are looking at the "before and after" pictures. To see what happened in between, click here.

Man many many thanks to Dennis and Andrew and Sam and Stuart and Jesse and especially Amazin' and Laurie Gaudi for the best Beach Shack warming present anyone has ever given me.

Bid It UP - Should I try this?

UP for bid: A spacious 2BR/2BA (sleeps eight comfortably) spring break party pad in a two-plex. Includes wide-screen TV and pool table. All new everything. See the pics if you haven't already

Well, I am thinking about trying this. This way, if I can’t get what I want - the “Buy It Now” price on the rates calendar - I will get what I can.

Offers may be entertained; deals may be struck.

We shall see. Check back tomorrow for updates.

History (Readers Digest Version)

1983 (?) "Pave paradise, put up a duplex"
While playing volleyball at Blackbeards,I notice new construction starting up between 'Beards' and the beach. Looks like progress. Alas.
1995 "Hey mom, I have a DISHWASHER!"
After having been evicted from Isla Blanca Park (along with all the other "permanent" residents), I am eventually able to finesse my way into the homesweethomiest spot I have ever had since leaving the parental abode.
2001 "I can't afford the whole thing - can you just sell me the bottom half?"
The landlord goes for it, "SandBox Condos" is born.
2004 "I think it's a great idea!"
The new boyfriend decides to buy the landlord out. Top and bottom, much redecorating ensues.
2006 "Whose great idea was that, anyway?"
The boyfriend becomes an ex and relocates to Port Aransas.
2007 "Yikes!"
An offer. A deal. A toast.
The parental units and I have been buying, banging and scrubbing nonstop for days maybe weeks. I ordered a sign yesterday.
The welcome mat is out.

Greetings from the SandBox!

So what exactly is "Beach Shack Chic?" you may well be wondering.
At the moment it is very much a work in progress. Over the next few months I will be chronicling the experience of becoming one with my inner innkeeper.

I have managed to acquire a large, beautiful, mostly-empty space. My mission is to turn into a place that will help special people discover and enjoy South Padre Island in a totally new way.

And yes, sand castles are very much part of the business model.

Please stay tuned.