House updates seem to have gone a bit slow this winter. I suppose its the holidays and the obligations that go along with it. Winter weather by nature is a bit dreary and that always seems to suck the energy out of my. We had a few nice days this last week, and coupled with two days off in a row in the middle of the week, I found myself ready to tackle a few projects.
For me, painting a room instantly personalizes a space and elevates my mood. It might just be the paint fumes (even thought I prefer to buy low-voc) but I feel instantly happy afterwards. I chose to paint Handsome's room and the dining room. We did both in two days. I am thrilled with the results. Baby boy's room received a coat of navy blue paint. It looks great with his white bed, but I probably won't show you the results until I get a few more details worked out. The dining room was painted the same gray as our master bedroom (Benjamin Moore Gray Wolf). I knew I wanted gray in there and thought I might pick out a different one, but why change what you know you like? So I bought another gallon. I've been bitten by the bug and want to paint everything in sight, I'm sure that will change once I work another twelve hour day or two, then I'll be tired again and return to longing on the couch and stalking Instagram. At least that's what my hubby is hoping for. He hates painting.
What about you? Anyone else have a a rush of energy when the weather perks up? Or do you hate painting as much as my hubby?
Showing posts with label house. Show all posts
Showing posts with label house. Show all posts
2.18.2013
11.13.2012
No-Sew Curtains
I've been slowly working on our kitchen/living room. You might remember my mantle updates, and side table makeover. I've also re-arranged the room a few times and switched around some rugs, but of course failed to blog about it. But for the past month or more, my heart has been set on updating the curtains.
When we first moved in, I put up the white curtains we already owned. They were cheap ones from Ikea, and long enough for our tall windows. Plus, I was trying to make do, I didn't want to rush an buy something just to have something. Well, the curtains were a bit too long. The kiddos stepped on them, they dragged on the floor, and as expected, the bottom hem got disgusting. So one day, in a fit of despair, I trimmed the bottom with scissors. And that is how they have been for 3 months. Additionally, the white curtains with light colored walls began to wear on me. All the furniture is neutral colored, so the whole room felt blah. My search for window coverings began.
I quickly found that purchasing drapes would be rather expensive, especially since my windows are tall. Standard 84 inch curtains won't cut it. So I decided to look for fabric. I have heard and read about making no-sew curtains and that sounds like a cheap way to get exactly what I wanted. Tracking down the fabric became the hard part. I have since discovered that there are not many places to purchase fabric in my area, no Joanne's, Calico Corner, Hancock, nothing. There is one designer fabric store that I found, but I'm not really interested in paying 25 dollars a yard and up. I browsed Fabric.com and found a few options, but still was anxious about paying $13 a yard (I needed 6 panels). So finally, I decided to check at Walmart. Luckily, they had a small fabric section. I discovered a cream and oatmeal ticking stripe in a heavy weight cotton. Now I love stripes, maybe borderline obsessed with ticking stripe. This was it, as long as there was enough yards. It came down to the wire, I thought I might need 18 yards and this was just over 17, but I took it all.
So, to make the curtains, I gathered a few materials and followed some simple steps. Here is what I used:
A tape measure, fabric scissors, fabric glue, and an iron.
When we first moved in, I put up the white curtains we already owned. They were cheap ones from Ikea, and long enough for our tall windows. Plus, I was trying to make do, I didn't want to rush an buy something just to have something. Well, the curtains were a bit too long. The kiddos stepped on them, they dragged on the floor, and as expected, the bottom hem got disgusting. So one day, in a fit of despair, I trimmed the bottom with scissors. And that is how they have been for 3 months. Additionally, the white curtains with light colored walls began to wear on me. All the furniture is neutral colored, so the whole room felt blah. My search for window coverings began.
I quickly found that purchasing drapes would be rather expensive, especially since my windows are tall. Standard 84 inch curtains won't cut it. So I decided to look for fabric. I have heard and read about making no-sew curtains and that sounds like a cheap way to get exactly what I wanted. Tracking down the fabric became the hard part. I have since discovered that there are not many places to purchase fabric in my area, no Joanne's, Calico Corner, Hancock, nothing. There is one designer fabric store that I found, but I'm not really interested in paying 25 dollars a yard and up. I browsed Fabric.com and found a few options, but still was anxious about paying $13 a yard (I needed 6 panels). So finally, I decided to check at Walmart. Luckily, they had a small fabric section. I discovered a cream and oatmeal ticking stripe in a heavy weight cotton. Now I love stripes, maybe borderline obsessed with ticking stripe. This was it, as long as there was enough yards. It came down to the wire, I thought I might need 18 yards and this was just over 17, but I took it all.
So, to make the curtains, I gathered a few materials and followed some simple steps. Here is what I used:
A tape measure, fabric scissors, fabric glue, and an iron.
- First, I measured out the length I needed for each panel, plus 2 inches for hem.
- Cut each panel. I kept the tape measure out to the appropriate length on the floor and measured the fabric. I aligned the end I needed to cut with a line on my hardwood floor so I kept a straight edge.
- Fold over the hem and iron to crease a straight edge. Place glue along hem and push fabric together with fingers.
- Let dry minimum of 30 minutes.
- Repeat for each panel.
Now to hang, I used drapery rings with clips.
It turned out much better than I expected. I love the look it adds to the windows. Since we have blinds, and the windows all face the backyard, I don't plan on closing the curtains. As a result, I am able to get away with less width for my panels.
Here is a close up of the ticking stripe:
I love how it turned out, and it was so much less expensive than buying curtains! I'm ready to tackle another room!
Any of you buy fabric online? Where is your go-to for curtains? I'd love to hear from you!
Here is a close up of the ticking stripe:
I love how it turned out, and it was so much less expensive than buying curtains! I'm ready to tackle another room!
Any of you buy fabric online? Where is your go-to for curtains? I'd love to hear from you!
10.25.2012
Safe Harbor
A dream is coming true, this week I finally broke down and ordered this:
I've been dreaming of a new bed, and real bed, one my Hubby and I share and call our own. The bed we currently have was one I purchased when I lived on my own, for my first apartment. The mattress is over 10 years old, and for whatever reason, it never really felt like OUR bed. It was mine. We have discussed upgrading for a while, but always put it off. Now that we are in our house and putting down roots, it feels like it is time.
I admit, I have been window shopping for a while. I've been pinning wood canopy beds on Pinterest for a year or more now. It guess its the princess in me. Unfortunately, that style of bed won't work in our bedroom. Something about a ceiling fan. Plus, I'm afraid it would overwhelm the room. And while our room isn't small, it isn't really large either. I opted for this bed to keep the space open and light. I also debated the cost. The price was overwhelming for me. Several times I wondered if it was even worth it. We could just get something cheap; something we could replace in a few more years. However, I kept coming back to the same desire, I want something that lasts. I want my marriage to last, so I have to put forth the effort and spend extra time to make it work. The bedroom is a special place, a foundation for our marriage. Its a place for relaxation, for restoration, for retreat. This bed will last us for years, maybe even the rest of our lives. Its a symbol of us.
With the new bed, comes a new mattress. Yesterday, it was delivered. Last night we slept on OUR new king mattress. It was heavenly, even if it was resting on the floor. In another week or two our bed should arrive and the package will be nearly complete. In the meantime, I'm shopping for sheets, king pillows, and maybe a new quilt. I promise I'll show you once its done. Until then, I'm gonna snuggle up in bed.
 |
| Harbor Bed from Crate and Barrel |
I've been dreaming of a new bed, and real bed, one my Hubby and I share and call our own. The bed we currently have was one I purchased when I lived on my own, for my first apartment. The mattress is over 10 years old, and for whatever reason, it never really felt like OUR bed. It was mine. We have discussed upgrading for a while, but always put it off. Now that we are in our house and putting down roots, it feels like it is time.
I admit, I have been window shopping for a while. I've been pinning wood canopy beds on Pinterest for a year or more now. It guess its the princess in me. Unfortunately, that style of bed won't work in our bedroom. Something about a ceiling fan. Plus, I'm afraid it would overwhelm the room. And while our room isn't small, it isn't really large either. I opted for this bed to keep the space open and light. I also debated the cost. The price was overwhelming for me. Several times I wondered if it was even worth it. We could just get something cheap; something we could replace in a few more years. However, I kept coming back to the same desire, I want something that lasts. I want my marriage to last, so I have to put forth the effort and spend extra time to make it work. The bedroom is a special place, a foundation for our marriage. Its a place for relaxation, for restoration, for retreat. This bed will last us for years, maybe even the rest of our lives. Its a symbol of us.
With the new bed, comes a new mattress. Yesterday, it was delivered. Last night we slept on OUR new king mattress. It was heavenly, even if it was resting on the floor. In another week or two our bed should arrive and the package will be nearly complete. In the meantime, I'm shopping for sheets, king pillows, and maybe a new quilt. I promise I'll show you once its done. Until then, I'm gonna snuggle up in bed.
8.10.2012
Homemade Laundry Soap
So I realize this post is proof of how un-original I am. I admit, I am a bit slow when it comes to trends; actually, resistant might be a better word. Changing my habits simply because everyone else has tried it doesn't sit so well with me. Perhaps, its because I'd rather watch others fail with the new stuff before I try my hand at it. Anyway, point being that I've seen, read, and heard of many others making their own laundry soap concoction, so I figured its safe enough for me.
For starters, I started dropping hints to my hubby. If there is one person that makes me seem like a risk-taker, its him. In his mind, only green/crunchy/poor/mentally unbalanced, or a combination of the above would even want to attempt to make laundry soap. I casually mentioned the idea for about a week. I mentioned things like cheap ingredients and 5 minute prep time and low cost per load, and avoided saying i read on a blog and pinterest. Finally, I decided it was pre-conditioned enough that I could just buy the stuff and make it. He had enough warning.
I will add that I first saw the idea on Pinterest. I never pinned it. Then, I heard a co-worker rave about how she loves her homemade laundry detergent. Shortly after, a friend of mine blogged about it. And tweeted it. I did a Google search, and a Pinterest search. The concept became less weird for me. You know what settled it? I discovered I could pick my own bar of soap, which meant I could pick my own scent. That's what nailed the lid in the coffin. I'm serious, fragrance is that important to me.
I used the recipe from my friend Rachael. I made a special trip to Walmart to pick up the ingredients. I normally avoid Walmart like the plague, but I didn't have much of a choice since Target didn't carry the Washing Soda. Once I got home, it took me 5 minutes to make. Literally.
Thus far, I have very little complaints. We do have a top-loading HE washer, but the soap is low sudsing and we haven't had an issue.
Anyway, this concludes my story of how I joined the cool kids and made my own laundry detergent. Anyone else out there on the cool side of the laundry club? Or are you of the school of thought only crazy people grate soap with a cheese grater? Tell me about it.
For starters, I started dropping hints to my hubby. If there is one person that makes me seem like a risk-taker, its him. In his mind, only green/crunchy/poor/mentally unbalanced, or a combination of the above would even want to attempt to make laundry soap. I casually mentioned the idea for about a week. I mentioned things like cheap ingredients and 5 minute prep time and low cost per load, and avoided saying i read on a blog and pinterest. Finally, I decided it was pre-conditioned enough that I could just buy the stuff and make it. He had enough warning.
I will add that I first saw the idea on Pinterest. I never pinned it. Then, I heard a co-worker rave about how she loves her homemade laundry detergent. Shortly after, a friend of mine blogged about it. And tweeted it. I did a Google search, and a Pinterest search. The concept became less weird for me. You know what settled it? I discovered I could pick my own bar of soap, which meant I could pick my own scent. That's what nailed the lid in the coffin. I'm serious, fragrance is that important to me.
I used the recipe from my friend Rachael. I made a special trip to Walmart to pick up the ingredients. I normally avoid Walmart like the plague, but I didn't have much of a choice since Target didn't carry the Washing Soda. Once I got home, it took me 5 minutes to make. Literally.
- 1 cup of Borax (3-4 dollars)
- 1 cup of Washing Soda (3-4 dollars)
- 1 cup of OxyClean (6 to 8 dollars)
- 1 bar of soap, grated (1 dollar, and yes, I used my cheese grater)
Thus far, I have very little complaints. We do have a top-loading HE washer, but the soap is low sudsing and we haven't had an issue.
Anyway, this concludes my story of how I joined the cool kids and made my own laundry detergent. Anyone else out there on the cool side of the laundry club? Or are you of the school of thought only crazy people grate soap with a cheese grater? Tell me about it.
4.18.2012
The New Place, Tour, part 1
Wanna see my house? I'm warning you, its a mess. We still have a way to go, but I'm operating on the "I have the rest of my life" time frame.
Ok, here is the Dining Room. Actually, its the box/junk/Idon'twannadealwiththis room. You like?
My Laundry room. Functional, but not cute. That I can change in time, maybe in a few years.
Powder room. Kid-friendly, guest friendly, and I love it. It could still use some art, eventually.
But I love my rug. A clearance find a Target. I love it. It's art enough for the room at the moment.
Family Room. I told you, its a mess. The kids are napping and I wanted to snap pictures before someone decides to wake up. I'm working on having a no-toys-downstairs rule. Hubby thinks I'm crazy.
Don't you love how hubby's chair directly faces the TV?
Ok, the the real disaster, the kitchen.
I just don't know where to put some stuff. I'm afraid to put it "just somewhere" and it end up living there for months or years and never have a proper, organized home. Are you getting a sense of how neurotic I am? My desire to have things clean and organized is nearly paralyzing me. Kind of ironic. Anyone else deal with that?
Well, I'm off to clean the old place and magic erase scribble marks off the walls. Wish me luck.
Ok, here is the Dining Room. Actually, its the box/junk/Idon'twannadealwiththis room. You like?
My Laundry room. Functional, but not cute. That I can change in time, maybe in a few years.
Powder room. Kid-friendly, guest friendly, and I love it. It could still use some art, eventually.
But I love my rug. A clearance find a Target. I love it. It's art enough for the room at the moment.
Family Room. I told you, its a mess. The kids are napping and I wanted to snap pictures before someone decides to wake up. I'm working on having a no-toys-downstairs rule. Hubby thinks I'm crazy.
Don't you love how hubby's chair directly faces the TV?
Ok, the the real disaster, the kitchen.
I just don't know where to put some stuff. I'm afraid to put it "just somewhere" and it end up living there for months or years and never have a proper, organized home. Are you getting a sense of how neurotic I am? My desire to have things clean and organized is nearly paralyzing me. Kind of ironic. Anyone else deal with that?
Well, I'm off to clean the old place and magic erase scribble marks off the walls. Wish me luck.
4.03.2012
Closing Day
We closed on our house last week. That morning, we had a home orientation with the builder and our realtor snapped this picture on her iphone. She's pretty savvy for a sixty-something lady! She was absolutely amazing so when you all decide to buy a place at the beach let me know, and I'll hook you up with her. Anyway, here's the picture.
We've been packing a moving boxes. This week, we are moving furniture and the in-laws are coming to help! Yay! My kitchen has been packed for a week so at this point I'm really looking forward to cooking in the new house. I'm sure that will only last a few days.
We've been packing a moving boxes. This week, we are moving furniture and the in-laws are coming to help! Yay! My kitchen has been packed for a week so at this point I'm really looking forward to cooking in the new house. I'm sure that will only last a few days.
2.27.2012
New House, the Second Level
Join Princess and I as we give a tour of the second level. Not quite as exciting since the rooms all look similar, but important none the less. Ready?
2.25.2012
New House, the Main Level
Ready for the main level house tour? I thought so.
Welcome to our new house! (fingers crossed for smooth closing) This is the view from front door. Adorable children don't convey, we had to provide our own.
Welcome to our new house! (fingers crossed for smooth closing) This is the view from front door. Adorable children don't convey, we had to provide our own.
2.24.2012
House Sneak Peek
Ready to see our new house? After a week, we made it back to take some pictures and measurements. Its hard to contain my excitement.
Isn't it adorable? While I'm really not crazy about the gingerbread details, I like the rest. I might get crazy and take them down someday.
And here is a view our future neighbors. I love the mix of house styles
I love my back porch! We plan on screening in the porch eventually. I can't wait, as I really don't like bugs.
There is a large vacant area next to our house. Part of that will be a landscaped buffer zone; the other part will be a dog park. Hubby thinks that's a great plan for our future dog.
Another view of our backyard. Our property line is only to the black (which will come down soon). However, there is a guaranteed 100 feet buffer of trees between us and a future residential development. No one has bought the land yet, so its still a few years off. We hope to put a fence in (must be black wrought iron per HOA) before hubby can bring home a dog. (see a theme here?)
Lots of plans to think about, but I find it exciting. We can take our time and make it how we want it and perfect for our family. That's the dream of home-ownership, right?
And here is a view our future neighbors. I love the mix of house styles
I love my back porch! We plan on screening in the porch eventually. I can't wait, as I really don't like bugs.
There is a large vacant area next to our house. Part of that will be a landscaped buffer zone; the other part will be a dog park. Hubby thinks that's a great plan for our future dog.
Another view of our backyard. Our property line is only to the black (which will come down soon). However, there is a guaranteed 100 feet buffer of trees between us and a future residential development. No one has bought the land yet, so its still a few years off. We hope to put a fence in (must be black wrought iron per HOA) before hubby can bring home a dog. (see a theme here?)
Lots of plans to think about, but I find it exciting. We can take our time and make it how we want it and perfect for our family. That's the dream of home-ownership, right?
2.20.2012
House Plans
We found a house! I don't have pictures of the place just yet (maybe next weekend), but I did find the floor plans online. Will this keep you interested until I find the time to take some pictures?
We are terribly excited. I didn't anticipate on finding a place this quickly. If all goes as planned, we will close at the end of March and move in April. I can't wait to have more space and make this house a home. My favorite parts so far our the pantry and bonus room (future playroom). I'll keep you posted on our progress.
First floor.
Second floor
We are terribly excited. I didn't anticipate on finding a place this quickly. If all goes as planned, we will close at the end of March and move in April. I can't wait to have more space and make this house a home. My favorite parts so far our the pantry and bonus room (future playroom). I'll keep you posted on our progress.
1.30.2012
Preparing for Another Move
So Hubby and I are working away on Goal#2 for TwentyTwelve. I am knee deep in house hunting mud. I admit, I have dreamed of this time for years, YEARS, yet now I'm impatient and frustrated. We have SO much to learn. I'm not completely clueless, thanks to HGTV, home bloggers, and the internet. I've also mentioned my addiction to Zillow, previously. However, I still feel like a First Year Student wondering what I've gotten myself into!
This past weekend we had a couple of good learning experiences. Hubby and I went to see a house in our current neighborhood. The pictures online showed an updated kitchen and clean house. After driving by, we noticed it was one block from a lovely park with playground. Additionally, it was 5-6 blocks from the beach. Oh, and in our price range. Well, the showing was a disaster. It was a multi-level house. The railings were wide (my two year old could walk thru them) and plentiful. There was an indoor balcony over the living room (WTH??) off the master and a small balcony outside. Outside was a nice large deck, however, we noticed some places were rotting. Toward the end of the showing, Handsome tripped and bumped into a door frame. He would not calm down. We ended up leaving shortly afterwards. He cried for about an hour.
This past weekend we had a couple of good learning experiences. Hubby and I went to see a house in our current neighborhood. The pictures online showed an updated kitchen and clean house. After driving by, we noticed it was one block from a lovely park with playground. Additionally, it was 5-6 blocks from the beach. Oh, and in our price range. Well, the showing was a disaster. It was a multi-level house. The railings were wide (my two year old could walk thru them) and plentiful. There was an indoor balcony over the living room (WTH??) off the master and a small balcony outside. Outside was a nice large deck, however, we noticed some places were rotting. Toward the end of the showing, Handsome tripped and bumped into a door frame. He would not calm down. We ended up leaving shortly afterwards. He cried for about an hour.
- We learned we need to see more houses. Online pictures are not sufficient.
- Childcare is a necessity if Hubby and I want to see houses together.
- Think of resale when you are buying. If the seller is having difficulty convincing you, are you going to have the same issue when you sell?
- Branching out your search with a professional allows you to learn of more options.
- Driving through neighborhoods is a vital starting place to see where you want to live.
1.09.2012
Shower Fresh
So three months ago I spied a pin on pinterest that I had to do. I mean, I had to do. It was easy, inexpensive, and all the while I kept thinking "why hadn't I thought of that".
I absolutely adore the two shower curtains. It frames the tub quite nicely, don't you agree? And while I don't really dig the starburst mirror trend, I think it looks smart here. Of course, this shower really isn't functional and I couldn't pull off the mirror-in-the-tub look, but I can easily recreate the two shower curtain style.
12.13.2011
Deck the Halls (or Living Room)
I have most of my Christmas decor up, but having my house clean at the same time to take pictures isn't really happening. Just so you know, I spot cleaned. Have you ever done that? Just cleaned what you knew your visitor would see? I transferred the junk to the kitchen and my bedroom. I didn't think you'd want to see my hot mess.
Anyway, here's the living area:
I still don't have art about the couch, so I decided it would be the perfect place for the stockings....and a wreath. My stocking was made by my grandmother when I was a girl. I purchased the others from Lands End to keep with the needlepoint theme. The wreath I purchased from Target a few years ago. They are all hung on Command hooks. I love Command hooks. We've had these for 3 plus years now.
The tray and reindeer are also from Target. I might keep the tray out past Christmas. I like it.
And of course the bookshelves. The Moravian stars and half of the mercury glass candleholders are from Target. Noticing a theme here? The other half are from West Elm. Others are gifts.
Of course there is the tree. But I've already talked about it in my Christmas tree post.
Next, we have the dining area:
My coffee bar received a make over with a silver tray, red runner, and glitter snowflake trees. All from Target. No, I don't own stock, but I should.
Hubby got this rosemary tree from Lowes. I think he's adorable (both the tree and my hubby) The snowman ornament Princess found and hung on the tree. The red beaded charger is from Target.
So that's about as far as I got. Only 13 more days until I have to take it all down.
12.10.2011
Christmas Tree
We finally have our Christmas Tree up and decorated. It taken me a while to post pictures because I can't get one I'm satisfied with. Its hard to take a good one. So I'm just going to post several of my attempts and you can pick your favorite.
I stuck with my silver and white theme again this year. Although I branched out from the snowflake and star ornaments to include birds and angels. All glitter coated and NO glass. Purchased from Target or Walgreens. And yes, I am surprised with the selection from Walgreens and very happy with my purchase. I think I have another year or two to go before I will be brave and attempt glass ornaments and ornaments with sentimental value. Until then, I will have a glitter tree.
I stuck with my silver and white theme again this year. Although I branched out from the snowflake and star ornaments to include birds and angels. All glitter coated and NO glass. Purchased from Target or Walgreens. And yes, I am surprised with the selection from Walgreens and very happy with my purchase. I think I have another year or two to go before I will be brave and attempt glass ornaments and ornaments with sentimental value. Until then, I will have a glitter tree.
12.07.2011
Zillow
You may be wondering what did on vacation when I wasn't watching HGTV. Or maybe not. I'll tell you anyway. I wasted the time away on Zillow. Have you heard of it? Its a real estate website to assist you in finding a house or even a rental. And its addicting.
Hubby and I are currently renting. We hope to buy in a year or two. We have some personal financial goals we want to attain before jumping into a mortgage. Nevertheless, that hasn't stopped me from looking. Zillow allows you to search on a map, plus the regular price/bedroom/bathroom filters. It also shows you an estimate of what the property is worth, price history, tax history, and more. You can see what has sold in the neighborhood and compare it to the property you are coveting.
I personally like looking at the interior pictures of the oceanfront properties. After all, its nice to know that the 1.2 million dollar house has an interior straight out of the 1980s. If I am going to spend 1.2 million beans, I don't want to have to sink more money in to update the kitchen, bathrooms, etc. Never mind that my budget isn't anywhere close to 1.2 million anything.
Anyone else heard of Zillow and spend all their free time on it? Its almost as bad as Pinterest!
Hubby and I are currently renting. We hope to buy in a year or two. We have some personal financial goals we want to attain before jumping into a mortgage. Nevertheless, that hasn't stopped me from looking. Zillow allows you to search on a map, plus the regular price/bedroom/bathroom filters. It also shows you an estimate of what the property is worth, price history, tax history, and more. You can see what has sold in the neighborhood and compare it to the property you are coveting.
I personally like looking at the interior pictures of the oceanfront properties. After all, its nice to know that the 1.2 million dollar house has an interior straight out of the 1980s. If I am going to spend 1.2 million beans, I don't want to have to sink more money in to update the kitchen, bathrooms, etc. Never mind that my budget isn't anywhere close to 1.2 million anything.
Anyone else heard of Zillow and spend all their free time on it? Its almost as bad as Pinterest!
11.04.2011
Shelf Styling
My favorite part about my living room are the shelves. Especially the tall ones. I've always loved the idea of a wall full of shelves. Filling them with books and time-worn treasures warms my soul like hot chocolate sliding down your throat on a cold winter day. Here's a peek inside my soul.
Top shelf, right side. A lovely poetry gift to my hubby from when we were first dating. Hurricane from Crate and Barrel, filled with candle and sea shells collected from our many beach walks. Paper weight stolen from my Mom, gnomes from West Elm, gifted from my Mom and Hubby. Five things, again similar color scheme.
Upper middle shelf, left side. Another poetry piece, glass bottle and tea light arrangement, collection from West Elm, World Market, and up-cycled wine bottle. Again, similar color arrangement.
Upper middle shelf, right side. Mercury glass vase, West Elm, framed print, gift from Mom, love letters, from Target, stacked books, apple, hubby's NYC souvenir. I had to play with this arrangement until I found one I liked. The apple does get moved often and is currently living on the top shelf. Let's just say munchkins can reach him so he gets moved a lot.
Middle shelf, left side. Two black and white photos of my kiddos, framed in Target frames. Basket is from Pier One. Black and white photos are my favorite. I like the clean look.
Bottom two shelves. Mainly heavy books. I felt we need to anchor the shelves a bit. The milk crate baskets are from Target and are VERY functional. I can't recommend them enough. One acts as a filing cabinet for important paperwork. The two others hold throw blankets and toss pillows. The teal boxes are also from Target. One houses loose photos, and the other CDs. Who uses CDs anymore? I'm stuck storing them. Also, notice the toys on the floor. The toy basket/shelf organization is another post, for another day.
And that's my shelf post. Seriously, I love rearranging them. I call it therapy. In another month or so, I will "winterize" them. Can't wait.
How do you display your treasures? Anyone else find rearranging trinkets therapeutic? Spill.
 | ||||
| the whole thing. plus a bunny. |
Shelves from Target online. Candlesticks from World Market, bunny from Mom.
Top shelf, left side. Hive vase from West Elm. Clear glass pumpkin jar from Walgreens filled with M&Ms. A Pharmacist Prayer framed, a gift from my MIL. Three things, similar color scheme.
Top shelf, right side. A lovely poetry gift to my hubby from when we were first dating. Hurricane from Crate and Barrel, filled with candle and sea shells collected from our many beach walks. Paper weight stolen from my Mom, gnomes from West Elm, gifted from my Mom and Hubby. Five things, again similar color scheme.
Upper middle shelf, left side. Another poetry piece, glass bottle and tea light arrangement, collection from West Elm, World Market, and up-cycled wine bottle. Again, similar color arrangement.
Upper middle shelf, right side. Mercury glass vase, West Elm, framed print, gift from Mom, love letters, from Target, stacked books, apple, hubby's NYC souvenir. I had to play with this arrangement until I found one I liked. The apple does get moved often and is currently living on the top shelf. Let's just say munchkins can reach him so he gets moved a lot.
Middle shelf, left side. Two black and white photos of my kiddos, framed in Target frames. Basket is from Pier One. Black and white photos are my favorite. I like the clean look.
Middle shelf, right side. Books collected since childhood. Its a combination of mine and hubby's. This is just a small bit of paperbacks. I tried to put them in a color arrangement, but it really doesn't have much of an impact on a small scale. Notice how these two lower shelves are more kid-friendly, in other words, nothing can break.
Bottom two shelves. Mainly heavy books. I felt we need to anchor the shelves a bit. The milk crate baskets are from Target and are VERY functional. I can't recommend them enough. One acts as a filing cabinet for important paperwork. The two others hold throw blankets and toss pillows. The teal boxes are also from Target. One houses loose photos, and the other CDs. Who uses CDs anymore? I'm stuck storing them. Also, notice the toys on the floor. The toy basket/shelf organization is another post, for another day.
And that's my shelf post. Seriously, I love rearranging them. I call it therapy. In another month or so, I will "winterize" them. Can't wait.
How do you display your treasures? Anyone else find rearranging trinkets therapeutic? Spill.
11.02.2011
Fall Closet Remix
It's finally that time of year here at the beach. You know what I mean. The weather is cooler. Like 60s. That's what fall is here. With the occasional 76 degree day. At least that's what I am told. The breezy ocean air chills things off at night to the 40s. I like this kind of cold. I haven't switched from iced coffee to hot at Starbucks, yet, but I have thought about it. I'm even itching to bake something with pumpkin in it. But I'll save that for another post. This weekend, however, I tackled the closet.
I have actually been excited about this. I've been waiting in anticipation. I love fall clothes. Especially when I haven't been able to wear them in 8 months or more. This autumn is a bit different, because I boxed most of these up early. As you may recall, we moved in June. I started packing in January. At the first hint of Spring, I sifted through my winter and fall clothes, purging anything I didn't wear, anything with holes, too stretched out, anything that didn't fit, anything I didn't want to take. I basically only moved my favorites. And I've missed them. Clothes that you love are like good friends. I think fall clothes are my best friends. Anyway, the point is, that I have been looking forward to the season changing and bringing out my fall boxes.
I smartened up a bit this year. I've been staying away from browsing the online clothing stores and the mall. Usually, I fall hard for a cool weather must-have and decide I need 10 new shirts and 5 new pants for the cold weather before I open up my boxes. This year, somehow I've been busy and haven't had the time to look. I "went shopping" in my closet as I switched out the seasons. And I am delighted. I think my Hubby will be too once he realizes how much money I saved. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure I buy something to update my wardrobe, but it will be a smarter purchase since I already know what I have currently in my closet.
These totes had to be unpacked, then re-packed, with the appropriate clothing. First things first, I had to take inventory of closet.
I am afraid of commitment, so I can't put away all my short-sleeved shirts. I kept a few favorites. Everything else I threw on bed. All baskets and piled clothing, you guessed it, thrown on the bed. Then, I tossed all worn out clothing and clothing I didn't wear at all this summer. The remains were packed up. Finally, I dust-mopped the closet. Deep breaths and apple juice rounded out stage one. (what? I have toddlers)
I unpacked THREE tubs of clothes. Seriously, do I have this much? Thank goodness they aren't all full. Then, I separated out the real winter stuff. It hasn't froze yet, so I shouldn't have it taking up precious closet space. I set aside clothes I don't remember wearing last year. I know I did this before I moved, but there were several shirts I remember having reasons NOT to wear them. Organized chaos abounds on my bed and spills into baskets on the floor.
On to the juicy stuff of hanging up shirts, organized by color, in order of the rainbow. Yes, we have already established I'm weird.
Then socks, panties, and belts were placed in separate baskets.
Pants were folded and place in drawer, plus camis/loungepants/nighties were folded and place in drawer.
Cardigans and bras on hooks.
Fold sweaters, place on upper shelf alongside cold-er weather pants and skirts.
Hang scarves on back of bathroom door.
Pack up clothing reserved for cold-er weather. Pack up clothing to be donated. Re-dust floor.
I like to label my storage totes with duct tape and black marker. As long as I remember to stack them all the same direction, it works out rather well. And I can't say enough for wicker baskets. I purchased the ones seen here from Pier 1 my junior year of college. They have moved with me numerous times, stored many things, and kept me sane. I love the look they lend.
Anyone else tackle a project this weekend? Perhaps you got to experience some fall weather? Please tell me someone else gets as giddy over a freshly organized space as I do?
I have actually been excited about this. I've been waiting in anticipation. I love fall clothes. Especially when I haven't been able to wear them in 8 months or more. This autumn is a bit different, because I boxed most of these up early. As you may recall, we moved in June. I started packing in January. At the first hint of Spring, I sifted through my winter and fall clothes, purging anything I didn't wear, anything with holes, too stretched out, anything that didn't fit, anything I didn't want to take. I basically only moved my favorites. And I've missed them. Clothes that you love are like good friends. I think fall clothes are my best friends. Anyway, the point is, that I have been looking forward to the season changing and bringing out my fall boxes.
I smartened up a bit this year. I've been staying away from browsing the online clothing stores and the mall. Usually, I fall hard for a cool weather must-have and decide I need 10 new shirts and 5 new pants for the cold weather before I open up my boxes. This year, somehow I've been busy and haven't had the time to look. I "went shopping" in my closet as I switched out the seasons. And I am delighted. I think my Hubby will be too once he realizes how much money I saved. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure I buy something to update my wardrobe, but it will be a smarter purchase since I already know what I have currently in my closet.
I am afraid of commitment, so I can't put away all my short-sleeved shirts. I kept a few favorites. Everything else I threw on bed. All baskets and piled clothing, you guessed it, thrown on the bed. Then, I tossed all worn out clothing and clothing I didn't wear at all this summer. The remains were packed up. Finally, I dust-mopped the closet. Deep breaths and apple juice rounded out stage one. (what? I have toddlers)
I unpacked THREE tubs of clothes. Seriously, do I have this much? Thank goodness they aren't all full. Then, I separated out the real winter stuff. It hasn't froze yet, so I shouldn't have it taking up precious closet space. I set aside clothes I don't remember wearing last year. I know I did this before I moved, but there were several shirts I remember having reasons NOT to wear them. Organized chaos abounds on my bed and spills into baskets on the floor.
On to the juicy stuff of hanging up shirts, organized by color, in order of the rainbow. Yes, we have already established I'm weird.
Pants were folded and place in drawer, plus camis/loungepants/nighties were folded and place in drawer.
Cardigans and bras on hooks.
Fold sweaters, place on upper shelf alongside cold-er weather pants and skirts.
Hang scarves on back of bathroom door.
Pack up clothing reserved for cold-er weather. Pack up clothing to be donated. Re-dust floor.
I like to label my storage totes with duct tape and black marker. As long as I remember to stack them all the same direction, it works out rather well. And I can't say enough for wicker baskets. I purchased the ones seen here from Pier 1 my junior year of college. They have moved with me numerous times, stored many things, and kept me sane. I love the look they lend.
Anyone else tackle a project this weekend? Perhaps you got to experience some fall weather? Please tell me someone else gets as giddy over a freshly organized space as I do?
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