I wanna be a notary public

when I grow up! Because it would seem like they make a lot of money for checking our identities and signing documents! Todd and I signed our home equity line of credit loan documents today, and some pages had to be signed in front of a notary public. First we called our bank but they said they don't notarize loan documents that aren't through them. So we called a couple of places around our neighborhood and they were the same price: $10 PER SIGNATURE witnessed/notarized. So we had to sign 8x in front of her. You do the math! It seems outrageous to me. That's why Todd had a "I got taken for a ride" look on his face in the pic! The third and final remodeling company came today to give their ideas regarding our remodeling projects today. He was actually the CEO of the company, and he certainly had some great ideas, especially in the master bath. I can't wait to see his designs, but I'm afraid they'll be pricier due to the great ideas. I think in home remodeling, great innovative ideas = pricey. His company actually custom builds the kitchen and bath cabinets themselves. When he named off some of the people who they've done cabinets for, we were impressed. They included LaDainian Tomlinson and Antonio Cromartie of the San Diego Chargers, and the late Joan Kroc, wife of McDonald's founder and CEO Ray Kroc. Next week they'll be presenting their designs to us, along with the price tag. ::gulp:: In other remodeling news... did you hear that Home Depot is closing all 34 of its EXPO Design Centers and laying off 7,000 people??? We were just there 3 weeks ago and they wanted us to start the design process with them and pay them $750! Good thing we didn't! Todd made Barley Sausage Skillet tonight and it was yummy, but chewy! Barley of course is a complex carb full of fiber and very good for you, but chewy!