Have a kitchen-remodeling story to share?

We are reluctantly beginning to think about remodeling our kitchen, which is fairly small (9’10” x 11’7”) and very old (1950s). I would like the benefit of others’ experience.

Any advice for me? pitfalls to watch out for? contractor horror stories? watchwords?

I know you have no idea what we’re starting with and where we’d be going, but even so, can you give me any kind of clue on dollars? Like, for $x you can have a dream kitchen, but you can’t even start talking for less than $y?

And are we talking days, weeks, months?

Any and all help and advice sought, welcomed, and appreciated.