This July home award winner grew up and now owns her own first home in Southwood Park

When meeting our most recently appointed board member, Nadine Rager and her friendly feline Boo at her cozy and colorful bungalow at 4128 Tacoma Avenue one can't help but notice her boundless energy, which is best translated in the well-tended beds, flowing window boxes and trellises of of her white and pear green home. Purchased six years ago by Nadine, who was raised in Southwood Park and a Bishop Luers graduate, knew intrinsically that our neighborhood was her only option. She admits that her realtor quickly tired of her insistence at being shown homes in the 07' but more specifically Southwood Park but eventually found her perfect match on Tacoma. Nadine herself is also a member of "Neighborhoods of the 07'" a group that focuses on uniting the dozen or so neighborhoods in the 46807 with communty-oriented activities, often held at Wunderkammer on Fairfield Avenue and provide resources along with grants to fund projects that enhance the unique qualities of our historic area. So her stake is broader than in just her home and our neighborhood alone. Her Tacoma residence, owned briefly by several different people from 2004-2010, was once the long time residence of "Disco" Harry and his wife Vera Paul. Widely known for Harry's penchant for hoofing at local dance clubs, Vera's well-tended yard and coated in the signature spring green hue, Nadine decided that when the time came to repaint the exterior she would stay with the lovely foliage-inspired shade. "I loved the color and I knew I didn't want to paint it anything else!" Her affection for the hue coordinates with her green thumb and the obvious efforts in the front yard are just a preview for what is in the back. The perimeter of the wood picketed backyard is a continuous bed of various perennials and flowers bisected by a matching one car garage with two windows and yet another full window box and a hammock. The backyard was not always the retreat it is today and she is quick to admit to the hundreds of hours she has spent digging and moving hundreds brick pavers around the boarders and to piece the patio into a current neatly patterned square that holds her table and cushioned chairs. More recently added by a former owner, an above ground pool atop a bed of rocks were all single-handedly scooped out of the yard by Nadine shortly after purchase. Whew!The interior of her home is just as stylish and well appointed as her yard. Two original wood trimmed street-facing windows provide a view of her beautifully planted window boxes. The original stained wood mouldings and trim outline freshly repainted warm taupe living and dining rooms. Thin strip hardwood floors, original wood cabinets in her generous sized kitchen and more windows beyond reveal refreshing views to her lovely backyard. Newer neutral tumbled style tile in the bathroom, more fresh paint and carpet in the hallway and bedrooms complete the updated and comfortable vibe. Nadine has left no room untouched on the main floor of her home but still dreams about the potential of converting the floored yet unfinished attic into one large master suite with a closet. She gets no rebuff from me and after seeing all that she has accomplished believe her plans will become a reality, most likely sooner than later!Erika Stuller For more information about 'Neighborhoods of the 07' or how you can become involved please visit their page on Facebook.