Bathroom Woes Anyone?

We have been having one sort of plumbing problem or other for the past year. I guess that's the price you pay for living in an old house. Our house was built in the 40's and hadn't really gone through any major renovations since it was built. Now that it's approaching its half century mark, it's finally showing its age. Things are starting to go one at a time.

Last year, it was the laundry room. Now, we're in the midst of tackling the bathrooms which have slowly developed faucet leaks, peeling paints and inefficient design for today's lifestyle. Believe it or not, one of the bathrooms still has only a claw foot tub to wash in. No shower. Now we're not getting rid of the tub, mind you. I love that cast iron monstrosity! I just want to add a shower. My girls are teenagers and have gotten past the tub baths stage. They just want to take their showers and go.

So. For the last few months we have been canvassing for bathroom accessories. They are high! Who would have thought a faucet or shower head would cost over $100! Well I guess they have always been that way, I just never had much of an opportunity to shop for them before.

Anyway, we've been finding some cool places for bathroom paraphernalia. I think we've finally decided on a look we want to go for. Since our house is old, I think we're sticking to more traditional designs although some of the new, sleek designs are really pretty.

Now the next step is finding the right contractor to do the job. Someone who will do a good job but not be too expensive. I have a feeling this will be another woe to worry about :)