If you own an old house, you'll admire Jana and Bruce Thompson's determination and persistence.

In 2007, they entered the Renovation Inspiration Contest co-sponsored by the Post-Gazette and Community Design Center of Pittsburgh (the entry deadline is Tuesday).

Along with a detailed essay, they submitted photos of their quirky 160-year-old row house in the North Side's Mexican War Streets. They didn't win; they weren't even finalists because the contest judges couldn't figure out their photos.

Last year, they tried again, and had a friend who is a professional photographer take the photos. This time, they were the winners of the large category, for projects costing $50,000 or more. Once the judges saw what they had done -- much of it with their own hands -- it was a no-brainer.

So if you've been thinking about entering, follow the Thompsons' lead and just do it. Take lots of photos, both overalls and close-ups, and include a few before pictures. Even architects and contractors can enter, as long as they have the homeowners' approval. Enter online at http://biz.post-gazette.com/renovationcontest or by printing and mailing a completed entry form.

-- Kevin Kirkland, Homes editor

Doug Oster writes a blog, "Growing With Doug," exclusively at PG+, a members-only web site of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Our introduction to PG+ gives you all the details.