B.E. Interiors

Tobi Fairley Inspiration

2012-03-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

All images shown on this post via Tobi Fairley's Portfolio.

Yesterday I went searching for some ideas to liven the dining room up. I'm not going to repaint, but I am thinking of recovering the four chairs I already did with something a little more cheerful. (Go ahead...say it. I know what you are thinking, "Are you insane?!")

I took down the damask curtains. I may even sell the rug! I think I'll list them on Craig's List along with the two extra plaid curtain panels that corrdinate with the rug (that's what I used on the chairs). I'm not only realizing I just need color around me, but I also like neutral rugs. I'm going back to my old stand-by – my no fail rug choice: sea grass. No matter what I do, it always goes with a sea grass rug:)

These are just some ideas I'm tossing around. We'll see. Right now I have some valances and drapery panels I'm working on for a client to finish up. I'll show you some before and after pics when I get them installed. I'm also having to rest. I made my third trip back to the doc [in three weeks] today and have now started my second AND third round of antibiotics. I think I just pushed myself too hard with work and all the family events since this fall and it finally caught up with me. Have I mentioned I can tend to be a work-aholic - although not consciously? It's not until I'm about to drop that I realize I've not taken a break. That's great for clients... not so great for me when I'm sick and should be resting. Now, I'm just plain sick of being SICK and will do whatever I need to... including sitting on my rear for a week if need be so the meds can do their job (I SOO don't do that well!). I'll be fine and am working much harder at pacing myself these days:)

During my down time, I decided to go check out Tobi Fairley's website for ideas. I love the way she uses color. It's not over the top, but it's vibrant, happy, and soothing all at the same time. Love it! Here's some of the images I particularly liked:

Hmmmm.... here's an idea for punching up a room with black. Colorful art and accessories layered over a black "canvas".

Subtle use of color on the chair fabric.

Simple but elegant use of contrasts.

This just screams summertime to me!

Thinking I like the more graphic nature of black and white versus black and beige.

How great are those silhouettes in bright colors? Simple art work anyone could do.

I'm a big fan of this color combo.

Great little vignette of complimentary colors!

This kitchen just has my name all over it!

Those are so my colors!

I love that orange is popular again.

Take a color and spread it around in bits to keep it from looking random and to tie it all together.

Just adding some colorful flowers or art can make a room pop!

Great use of white, orange and it's compliment soft blue.

I love a white kitchen with a dark stained island.

I'm fancying some green painted chests for night stands when I look at this picture.

Neutrals but lots of texture and pattern - not boring.

Ooooo......

Ahhhhh....!

I'm particularly in love with this melon pink right now!

Feel like grabbing a paint brush yet and slapping some color on a small side piece or lamp? How about some beautiful flowers in a vase? Or maybe some colorful throw pillows? Those are fun and easy to switch out when you tire of them. Go for it. Be bold and push yourself to use step out of your comfort zone of neutrals!

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Personal Insight

2012-03-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

Biltmore House viewed from one of the walking paths through the gardens.
B.E. Interiors Photography

You know, life is a constant learning process. No matter how old you get, you never know it all (sorry kids!). I love to look at soothing neutral rooms. They really appeal to me and I love to design them. Guess what I've learned, though. I don't like living with them! I totally neutralized my dining room this past fall and had it done just in time for Thanksgiving and the family dinner after my grandfather-in-law's funeral. At the time, I liked it. It was so drastically different than what I'm used to doing in my own home. I experimented... and I learned something new about myself. I'm just not a neutral kinda gal and it's not appealing to me anymore! [Oh, the hubby will just loose it if he reads this!]

It's not that I don't think it looks pulled together, but I can tell I've been going through kind-of a dark season in life. It feels like a funeral home to me now! Maybe it's just because immediately after finishing the room, I was hosting the family meal after burying a loved one. Now, I'm waiting on a second funeral to happen in the near future.

My grandmother is rapidly slipping away. She fell about two weeks ago, hitting her head incredibly hard. I'm surprised it didn't kill her. Also surprising was the fact that no bones were broken. Ever since, though, she's slipped really fast. I wonder as I leave her each morning after our "coffee" (when I check on her, gather up her dirty clothes to wash, etc.) if I'll see her again the next day. I wouldn't trade this time with her for anything. But, it's extremely draining emotionally... spending each day wondering if it's your last with someone you love. The last thing I need right now is to feel like I'm in a funeral home in my place of refuge - my home! Whether it really looks that way or not, it's how it feels because of all we've been through since it was finished. I can't think of anything that lifts your spirits better than a good dose of color and remembering this verse:

"Be joyful always; pray continually;give thanks in all circumstances,

for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

So, I'm looking to change it up a little. I'm craving some color! There's just too much black and beige. It's almost spring time and things are starting to bloom. Spring is my favorite time of year...when everything seems to be full of life and new beginnings. I'm not sure what I'm going to do yet in the dining room, but I'm tossing around some ideas. Nothing major. I do still like the paint. Some color just needs to be injected and a little of the black removed. The wheels are spinning....!

The boys in front of the "castle"!
B.E. Photography

Biltmore House viewed from the Italian Gardens.
B.E. Photography

The brilliant orange of these bushes in the dead of winter really inspired me
to come home and liven things up a bit with some color!
B.E. Photography

In the meantime, I thought I'd share some pictures I took at The Biltmore House last weekend. As a little family celebration of me being done with the rental house and finally home on the weekends, we jumped in the car last weekend and headed up for the day. Nothing was blooming, and there was a bitter cold wind blowing, but it was fun. Not so sure it was good for this upper respiratory mess I've had for what seems like forever, but never the less, we had a good time. I'm not sure if the kids were more excited to see "the castle" or the animals at the petting zoo:) Enjoy!

One of the gargoyles on the Biltmore.
B.E. Photography

Cherub in the Italian Gardens at the Biltmore House.
B.E. Photography

Big Boy petting the horse at the petting zoo on the grounds.
B.E. Photography

This poor girl made me laugh:) She was about to drop a kid or two at any moment and had decided to rest in the wheelbarrow! I so feel her pain. What I wouldn't have given to be hauled around in a wheel barrow at that point!
B.E. Photography

I think everyone wanted his woolly coat that day!
B.E. Photography

The two youngest taking a ride before heading home. Don't you just love my middle guy's fashion sense? And to think...I used to swear there would NEVER be camouflage in my home!

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Simple, yet elegant dinnerware.

2012-02-29T16:29:00.000-05:00

I like this pattern, but that's a whole lotta money for as much of it as I would need!
Aynsley Basket Weave

After nearly twelve years, my everyday dinnerware is biting the dust. It's been heading that way for a while. One piece after another has broken, cracked or chipped over the years until I'm down to quite the hodge-podge of dishes in the cupboard. When a dinner guest asked if I ever worried that my coffee mugs would shatter when hot liquid was poured into them, I knew I'd put off replacing them too long! (How embarrassing!)

Thinking this will be the winner. It has great reviews! It's microwaveable, dishwasher safe, and very reasonably priced. You can also buy by the piece versus having to buy sets. Bingo! Most bang for my buck so far!
Ten Strawberry St Havana Weave

As pretty as colored dishes can be, white is so much more practical and versatile. It goes with any decor scheme. If you really want to be practical, don't even get a pattern on it like I did with the basket relief. I wanted just a little design. The basket relief is elegant when needs be yet casual enough for every day. I'm all about having just one set of dinnerware!

My old dinnerware from Pier 1. Loved the look, but not good for the microwave...
and that's a must around here! I don't even think they make it anymore.

It was love at first sight when I saw my everyday dinnerware at Pier 1 years ago (swoon!). I still love it, but there is just one small problem: it does not microwave well! Some pieces get scalding hot while the food remains cold, meaning I'm afraid to pick up anything that had been heated. There's been many a burned hand:(

Really pretty, but don't care for the size of the mugs. I'm a serious coffee drinker and so is just about everyone I have over. A mug like this just isn't practical for our everyday use.
Oneida Westerly Basket Weave

Nice, but a little pricey for as much as I need.
Pillivuyt Basket Weave

Very nice and reasonably priced, but hasn't got the greatest reviews.
Thinking this may be one of those..."you get what you pay for" deals.
Psaltsgraff Basket Weave

Nice, but once again, it's pricey for everyday use.
Wedgewood Nantucket

The basket pattern has stood the test of time, though. I still love it as much now as I did then. So, I'm on a mission to find a new set of dinnerware that is a little more durable, yet has the same look and feel. I'm finding that there is quite a selection out there of white basket relief. Wha-hoo! Now, just to pick one because I need a ton of it!

Oh, and guess what is open this weekend for three days? My fabric warehouse! I feel a trip coming on:)

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Today's Fabric Find

2012-02-28T19:36:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I'm SOOOOO over the winter grays! Today I found a fabric that just made me happy. It completely inspired me. It's going into my house somewhere...just haven't decided where yet:)

Drapery Fabric - Lauren Hancock Selim on Cotton Fabric

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Reno Reveal: Part 2

2012-02-24T22:41:00.000-05:00

Alrighty! Ready to see the rest of the rental redo, aka Face-lift on the Cheap? Let's continue on with the walk-through. I'm not feeling so hot tonight, so I'm not up to typing much. After three to four weeks and two trips to the doctor, I'm still not up to par. Whatever this bug is I've had is wicked! So, due to a huge desire and need to rest, I'll be brief and hope this makes sense (because I'm feeling a little woozy:)!

From the dining room I moved on to the Family Room. Here's two "Before" pictures:

"Before" shot with all the old carpet and louvered sliding door to the hallway that was removed.

Be gone old blue curtains and darkness!

The new hardwood flooring was continued on into here and the hallway. The walls were painted SW Muslin, a new ceiling fan and storm door were installed, and new window dressings. All trim was once again scrubbed down with TSP and re-stained.

So much airier, light and bright!

Then there was the hallway to tackle:

Paneling, carpet, louvered sliding door...!

The homeowner had started down the right path to lighten the hallway by painting the paneling,
but the colors were just all wrong. It was the same cold toned green/gray.

Out came the paint cans again, and the same treatment was given here as everywhere else. The top was the SW Muslin and from the chair rail down was the custom mix.

All trim and doors were re-stained. The light was replaced
as well as continuing the hardwood flooring into the hallway.

Then came the master bedroom and bath. Here's the before shots:

Some nice tenant had painted the master bedroom lemon yellow. Ugh!

If I'd have had the money in the budget, this would have been a gut job. Gotta love the
old laminate countertop, chipping painted vanity, Hollywood strip lighting, and gold fixtures!

The master bedroom and bath both received the trim treatment and paint as well as new carpet.

Much better.

In the master bath, I started with stripping down the vanity. I have to say, the master bath and the kitchen were by far where I spent the majority of my time. My furniture revamping skills came in handy with both rooms, but particularly with the master vanity. See for yourself.

Lots of nastiness!

Then is was all sanded down.

Scottie Dog had to check out the action:)

Then the first coat of my favorite stain, Minwax Dark Walnut went on.
Don't you just love the gold toilet with the wooden seat?!

Next, a new vanity top and faucet were installed before the second coat of stain went on.

The homeowner had changed out the lighting and installed new laminate flooring. Some Polycrylic and new chrome hardware left the homeowners having a hard time believing it was even the same vanity! Bingo! Add a new white shower curtain and nice chrome rings, chrome accessories, white towels, toilet update and it was a whole new room.
One I'd actually like to spend time in getting dressed each morning:)

I was pretty happy with the final results:)

There you have it. The finished tour of what I've been working on for the last two months! Looking at it now, it's hard to believe it took so much work, but oh, my word, did it take work! God was gracious, though. By his grace, and ONLY by his grace, I was able to finish on time even though I was sick and ready to drop the last week. It became a constant battle to keep moving. There were so many little times he reminded me he was there holding me up. For instance, when I walked into the family room to see a little wren just sitting on the mantle! He'd managed to squeeze in through the few inches I'd cracked the garage door for fresh air. It may seem totally unrelated, but it was at that point I was really needing his uplifting hand to keep going. Seeing that little bird just sitting there and how easy it was to open the door and watch it fly out, made me truly feel his presence. It was like he was saying, "See the bird and remember,

Matthew 10:29-31

"Not even a sparrow, worth only half a

penny, can fall to the ground without your

Father knowing it. And the very hairs on

your head are all numbered. So don’t be

afraid; you are more valuable to Him than

a whole flock of sparrows."

Philippians 4:13

"For I can do everything with the help of

Christ who gives me the strength I need."

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Rental Reno Reveal: Part 1

2012-02-23T15:06:00.000-05:00

Well, the much anticipated rental redo/face-lift is complete! I can't tell you how good it feels. I took a ton of pictures, and decided the best way to do this reveal was to break it into two parts. Otherwise, I'd take forever getting everything edited and posted.

Our original deadline was February 1st, but it became apparent to everyone that wasn't going to be possible so it ended up being completed by mid February. A lot of repairs and exterior work had to be done and hired out. One of the things about renovation is you never know what you're going to discover. Inevitably you'll find repair work you never planned or budgeted for (which then affects your finishing budget!). Keep that in the back of your noggin' if you plan to tackle such a job. The older the house, the more likely you'll spend a good sum of money on hidden repairs.

That said, want to see what I've been working on (literally) for the last two months? Today I'll show you the kitchen, dining room, second bathroom and two of the three bedrooms. Tomorrow I'll post the family room, master bed and bath, and hallway. For a house so small (1530 sq. ft.) it has an amazing amount of storage! Which meant I got to paint a lot of closets as well:)

Let's review, shall we? Here's the little rental I've been trying to bring into the 21st century on a super tiny budget (for a reno):

It's really a rather cute little ranch that just needed a lot of lovin'!

The outside wasn't too bad. I don't have any updated pictures of the exterior to show as of now. Suffice it to say it's very much as it is here.

Now, let's see that kitchen as it was. Bear in mind, these are the best pictures the homeowner could find to send me. I wasn't able to get many taken before it became a work zone.

It may have been built in 1984, but I swear it looks like it was built in the 60's or 70's!

It had it all...laminate butcher block for counter AND backsplash, wallpaper border, a cold green/gray color on most walls, old groovy cabinets, scallop valance, flourescent lighting, old shiney brass fixtures, old appliances and a tiny budget. I had my work cut out for me!

By the time I managed to get a few before pics in, new appliances had already been installed, walls painted and a few cabinet doors removed. I wasn't the only one working here (but I was the only woman!), and it was a disaster zone! Construction is a messy process:)

The "yellowishness" was overwhelming!

On one trip back I managed to squeeze in a few "During the Reno" shots. This was the weekend I tiled the backsplash:

Can I just say... this mess made me twitch... and when I work alone it's not exactly clutter free!

Even with everything a mess and cabinets still unfinished,
you can see what a dramatic difference the new subway tile backslash makes!

The last thing done was hanging the refaced cabinet doors and adding new brushed nickel hardware. The homeowners had two very specific wants when it came to the kitchen redo...almond/biscut appliances (that they purchased on their own) and stained wood cabinets...NO paint! That made for quite the challenge. In order to lighten and brighten a room with limited sunlight, naturally you want to slather on the light or white paint. But, I had to keep the cabinets stained. So, instead I went with a glossy off-white subway tile and old white grout. Then, I revved up the lighting wattage! Walls went a creamy white (SW "Muslin") and old fluorescent were replaced with halogen fixtures. Halogen gives a much crisper, brighter light with more lumens for the maximum wattage.

If budget would have allowed, I've have switched out the bar stools, but a tenant can do that later.

I was also instructed to leave the mini-blinds... which I would have loved to replace. But, like I have said before. You have to invest in what's going to make the biggest impact and we were maxing out the budget as is.

As much as a new counter-top would have looked fantastic, I knew we could make the most of the laminate butcher block, so it didn't make the budget cut.

A new light fixture put in by the homeowner brings the breakfast area into the 21st century. Your's truly scrubbed all the trim (in the house!) down with TSP and a sanding sponge, then a fresh coat of stain was applied! Talk about work! I did more squats than I've ever done at the gym:)

This window underwent a minor, but major impact change. I took down the wooden scallop valance from the 60's and replaced the fluorescent tube light with a hanging halogen pendant. The amount of light that flooded in just from those two changes was amazing!

And last, but not least, there was the cabinetry reface. I'm noticing I forgot to remove the wide angle lense with the way the horizontal lines are curving:)

For the cabinet refacing, all of it was sanded down and scrubbed with TSP, veneer was applied to the doors and drawers, trim mitered and applied to trim out the doors, two coats of Golden Pecan stain applied to the veneers and trim (in order to match the look of the old finish on the cabinet bases prior to adding the new stain), then a fresh coat of Minwax Polyshades in Misson Oak applied to all the cabinetry to achieve a rustic look, and new brushed nickel hardware installed. Whew! Makes me tired just thinking about it all:)

Just as a side note, unless you plan to spray the Polyshades or want a rustic look like this, don't use it. It gives a streaky appearance and isn't really staining. It's tinted polyurethane. It just sits on top of the old finish. So, it's really TONING the wood... not re-staining it. Meaning, if it doesn't go on smooth, and you keep applying layers, it will only deepen, not fill in like paint or stain. When applied correctly, it can give a fantastic deep, rich, lustrous look, but it's really hard to do with a brush. I didn't mind the streakiness here because it kept with the more "Pottery Barn" look we were going for.

Now, moving on. Next we come to the little dining room. This is how it started:

Parquet floors that were falling apart, wallpaper boarder, old shiney brass chandelier,
cold wall color and a vinyl roll up shade.

At this point, the light fixture had already been changed out and the wallpaper border had been removed previously by the owners and an unflattering cold grey/green color applied to the walls. You can begin to get a feel for how bad a shape the trim was in from the doorway!

New solid, three quarter inch white oak floors were put down on a diagonal and two coats of satin poly were applied - no stain. I loved the natural look! Then I tackled the dining room which was a pretty quick redo. Walls were painted in my custom mix of one part SW Bittersweet Stem and two parts SW Muslin in eggshell. The trim was all scrubbed and re-stained. And the homeowner had already installed a new light fixture. Lastly, I added some sheet linen-like panels to the window to help dress the room up more for showing.

This was probably the brightest room in the house, but I ran out of daylight and had to get my "After" shot in the dark.

Next, comes the family room and hallway, but I'll save those for tomorrow. Lastly (for today), I'll show you the improved front bathroom. I REALLY wish I could have gotten a before shot of this one! The homeowner had this picture with it's lovely mauve and dusty blue sea-shell wallpaper that was peeling off, hollywood vanity light, old groovy cabinetry and pink/white linoleum flooring.

What this picture doesn't show was the pink/mauve sponge painted walls that had most recently replaced the wallpaper! When the SW Muslin went up, it almost looked green next to the unpainted section of mauvishness, causing me to doubt my choice of color for just a second:)

Once again, walls were painted, all cabinetry and trim was scrubbed, sanded, and the Mission Oak Polyshades was applied to all the cabinetry. Trim was re-stained to freshen existing color with Minwax Express Color in Pecan. Everything was re-caulked, scrubbed with a toothbrush (I'm picky!) and bleach, and new linoleum flooring was installed. New lighting was installed by the homeowner and matching brushed nickel hardware replaced the old brass knobs on the cabinetry. With a few photo props, the final result was nice and clean looking:

All freshened up!

By darkening the stain, it helps to hide the grooves and draw you eye to the clean white top. Gotta love contrast! I would have loved to replace the faucet, but it wasn't in the budget, not to mention not enough time.

Last, but not least, the two secondary bedrooms each received fresh paint in the custom mix of the dining room, new carpet, refreshed trim, old curtains tossed and the hideous carousel ceiling fan was replaced. Beyond that, other than than installing larger windows (which was never going to happen with this budget), there wasn't much else to do.

Here's the before shots given to me:

The back bedroom with it's cold grey paint and eighties balloon valance.

The carousel room...enough said!

Much brighter and warmer. Not so cave like.
Given a few props, this room could really take on the "Pottery Barn" modern feel.

These closets were amazingly large for such small bedrooms! And, yes, they got the paint treatment as well:)

This was not a good lighting shot. I tried to do some correction in Photoshop, but this was as good as it was getting. Oh well. You can see the changes. Carousels and cold grey....be gone!

And yet another closet.

Well, there is the Reno Reveal: Part 1. Probably the toughest thing in design is being able to give the homeowners what THEY want... not just what you like. It's super easy to come up with ideas to update spaces. The tricky part is tweaking that plan until it satisfies their wants, likes and budget. You wouldn't believe the amount of time spent just doing the planning for this face-lift!

Stay tuned... because tomorrow is Reno Reveal: Part 2!

Mudrooms Guest Post

2012-02-22T07:00:00.003-05:00

Today, I'm typing up a Before and After post on the Rental Redo and editing photos! So, while I'm working away, I decided to take Arcadian Lighting up on a guest post. They found some of the most gorgeous mudrooms to share with you below! Check them out and see what they have to offer. You're bound to find something you like. Nothing transforms a room like a new light fixture. Thank you, Jessica!

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Hello! I'm Jessica, a writer for Arcadian Lighting, a wonderful source for affordable lighting fixtures and interior design inspiration. Today, I'd like to share a selection of mudrooms on Bee Interiors. For those living in less forgiving climates, it can be difficult to keep your home clean when a trip outdoors results in soggy shoes and heaps of extra clothing layers to store away. A mudroom is the perfect solution for keeping an entryway uncluttered and your home a little more clean. Enjoy!

This charming country house mudroom provides plenty of storage for shoes and umbrellas with very minimal furniture. A mini bench and a few well placed pegs make this room neat, tidy, and inviting.

A mudroom doesn't only have to be convenient for the people in your household, but your pets too. This built-in dog bed in this shelf is such a great idea.

The beautiful woodwork and woven baskets in this mudroom add a slightly rustic contrast to the crisp white painted cubbies and modern pendant light. The slate tiles give the room a subtle 'outdoorsy' feel to help transition from outside to inside.

This staircase provides the perfect spot for storing shoes and outdoor clothing if the entryway is not spacious enough. The purple color palette is a very serene and modern choice that goes beautifully with the wicker baskets.

A coat closet in the entry way can also be transformed into a mini mudroom. The pale yellow and white color helps brighten the small space and attracts the eye. A very clever DIY project.

I love the distressed quality of the green paint in this mudroom. Recessed ceiling lights are a great option for lighting smaller rooms without taking up space or getting in the way.

The woodwork and the natural color scheme in this room is simply lovely. The stone floors are also durable and easy to keep clean.

The gingham pattern on the bench adds such a friendly quality to an already cozy entryway. The cupboards and drawers make this mudroom particularly neat and clutter-free.†Images†1†|†2†|†3†|†4†|†5†|†6†|†7†|†8

If you have a mudroom, how do you keep the space organized? Let us know! And don't forget to stop by Arcadian Lighting for perfect pendant lights that will brighten your own mudroom.

Where is she?!

2012-02-21T08:47:00.002-05:00

via www.keepandshare.com

(Sunday morning:)

As I pry my eyes apart while trying to drink my second cup of coffee, I sit here and wonder if you all think I've fallen off the face of the earth? You're probably wondering, "Is she still blogging? Did she ever finish that rental face-lift, is she still alive?" The answer to all of the above would be yes!!!

The last month and a half have found me buried in more work than I ever should have taken on, and...frankly doubting my sanity! I'm sure you all did when I told you I was doing this face-lift two hours away that could only be done on weekends while trying to stay married and raise three little boys. You probably thought things like,
"She's NUTS"
"She's insane"
"She's a glutton for punishment"
"She's just flat out stupid"!

Frankly, I'm shocked any of you still read my crazy ramblings as I sit here and process just what all must have crossed your mind. You're one fantastic and patient group of people to put up with me...then again maybe you're just curious as to what the next stupid thing is that I'm going to do! That's it. You just need someone to laugh at. Well, go ahead. I deserve it. BUT...I've become a better person for it. I've learned my limits and some serious appreciation for tradesmen. Chalk it up to a learning experience.

So, about that rental...this morning I'm trying to give myself a pep talk to go finish up today. It's pouring rain and only 7:30 and I'm sick. I'd rather be in my bed at home getting ready to round up the crew for church. Not that I've not liked this job. I've loved it. I'm just ready to be done. Never again will I take on a job two hours away that can only be done on the weekends (not anyway where I'm doing most of the work)! It's kicked my tail.

Today I'm hanging cabinet doors, finishing a few minor details and then taking photos of the finished product. I'm also feeling like I've been hit by a truck. This week I succumbed to a nasty sinus and upper respiratory infection and I'm moving like a snail.

The biggest reason I took on this job was the challenge of it. Could I do it? Second, it presented an opportunity to practice some skills usually hired out to trades (for a good reason!). I have always felt like if you're going to make suggestions for things that are going to cost people money, you need to fully understand what you're talking about as well as the time and skill involved in the project for many reasons. Least of which would be negotiating costs for trade labor. The only REAL way to do that is to do it yourself once. You'll see things from a whole new perspective and have a much greater appreciation for tradesmen. Folks, they don't charge those prices just to gouge you (anyway, not all the time)! This is some seriously time-consuming and hard work! But can I tell you how good it feels to look back and say, "I did it [and I'm still married]!"

As a side note, the hubby and homeowners deserve some serious praise for being so patient and willing to let me do this. It has been a fantastic learning experience. When I consider how much better it looks now and for no more than it cost, it's simply amazing! This was a fairly inexpensive face lift when you consider what all was accomplished. It just goes to show...if you invest in the RIGHT things, you don't have to spend a small fortune (remember...it's relative!) to make a place look 100% better. I'm not saying it's going to be cheap, but knowing what will give you the most bang for your buck is critical. So is knowing when to stop...because renovation can be like a run away train. One thing can lead to another and before you know it...you're in way over your head! Not that I've got any experience with that:)

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Wine Bottle Pendant

2012-01-25T16:10:00.000-05:00

Once again, I'm dying to try my hand at another knock-off idea. Have you seen these beauties in Ballard Designs catalog?

Addie Pendant from Ballard Designs
$129.00

Does this remind you of anything?

According to the description, the idea came from looking at old bottles.

Now, the minute I saw this, I remembered seeing a bottle shaped almost identical. That's the way my mind works. I notice shape, form and color of everything! I'm constantly looking at and taking mental notes of items that catch my eye. The object that came to mind was a cheap wine bottle...Livingston.

They have a great shape with no handle!
via The Wicker House

The bottle reminds me of old apple cider vinegar bottles. I'll never forget that shape. When I was a little girl, my grandmother bought some and poured me a glass thinking it was apple JUICE! I've never much cared for the stuff since!

Anyhoo, the shape is perfect. With a bottle cutter,

via Silver Art Glass Jewelery

via Everything Stained Glass

some silver stained glass taping,

via Etsy

a pendant kit with possibly some kind of extension for the socket to get it low enough into the bottle that a bulb could be screwed into it,

via Electrical Hardware Store
$19.97
(you can get something similar for $14+/- at Home Depot or Lowe's)

and possibly some glass paint,

via Life123

you have yourself a copy cat! And you don't have to settle for just one of four colors.

I'm thinking a metallic shade or a color mixed with silver and thinned with a glaze (see link on image above for mixing info). Roll it all around inside the bottle, then leave it to dry. Or try a stained glass spray paint like this:

via Krylon

Cut the bottle, add the silver edging and pendant kit, and wha-la! Your very own Addie Pendant for about half the cost of a ready made one. Now, if I can only find time to actually make one!

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Anderson Interiors Inspiration

2012-01-24T20:56:00.000-05:00

Oh, to have a cold lemonade and feel the sun on my face!

I don't know about you, but this time of year I start to get REALLY tired of rainy, dark, cold dreary days and start to long for springtime. It's actually kind of pathetic since winter just started and I live in the deep south! But...it is what it is. This is when I start dreaming of the beach, warm sun on my face and flip-flops on my feet.

That said, I started looking for a little inspiration to keep my outlook sunny even if we haven't actually seen the sun in days around here! Naturally, that means I head for Charleston, SC and start checking out designer's websites.

Let me introduce you to Anderson Interiors . They specialize in all styles of upscale interiors, but seem largely focused on traditional spaces, which I always find inspiration in if they are done well. There is a classic timeless elegance in their work. See for yourself:

Incredibly elegant!

Traditional and classic. Never dated.

What a great shade of blue!

How would you like to see this out your back window?

I'm thinking there MIGHT just be enough room here for my workshop (house, etc)?!

What a great banquet.

Yep. I'm thinking I could deal just fine with this every morning:)

What a great ceiling!

Oh, my word! Does it get any better than this?!

This is just my speed.

Oh, so relaxing.

Loving those windows and all that natural light.

This has my name written all over it.

How great is this touch of pink?

Yep. Think that did it. I'm feeling the clouds lift and the creative juices starting to flow.

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Face-lift on the Cheap: Part 1c

2012-01-23T22:36:00.001-05:00

I love this kitchen! It completely inspires me. How about you?
via DecorPad

I've been a bad, bad blogger! In my rush to get this rental finished, I've neglected to take pictures! Shame on me. Did I mention this house I'm working on is two hours away and the only time I can work there on site is weekends?! So, I do my regular stuff & planning all week, then hop in the car and take off to work on the weekends when hubby and grandma can watch kids! Can you say pooped - tired - exhausted? Even so, I am very grateful for a job I enjoy so much:)

This is another image I'm really feeling inspired by as the layout is the same except there is no peninsula:

via houzz.com

This weekend I installed a 2"x4" subway tile, brick pattern backsplash in "Biscuit" ceramic tile.

American Olean 12"x12" Biscuit - which is considerably whiter than this images appears!
via Lowe's

Total cost for materials was only about $150! Not too shabby and the difference it made is amazing. Granted, I went through every sheet and separated out an entire box of sheets with at least one broken tile, which I then was able to get for half-price as extras to the box and a half I bought of intact sheets. I've ask someone to go take some pictures, so I can show you. Hopefully, I'll get some soon. I did remember to take "before" pics after I'd started removing cabinet doors!

Fortunately, what I'm working on this week is refacing cabinetry. So, my car is currently loaded down with every cabinet door from the house! As soon as the veneer comes in, I'll post pics on the process and show you (hopefully - if all goes as planned) a quick and cheap update for old cabinets.

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Flor Creativity

2012-01-18T08:40:00.000-05:00

"Needlepoint Stripe"

I'm completely obsessed with a product and have been for some time. Have you ever checked out Flor carpet tiles? The possibilities are endless! I think that is why I'm so in love with them.

"Martha Stewart Velvet Twist"

"Home Movies"

Somewhere around five or six years ago I discovered them, but was REALLY sceptical because all I could think about was the old carpet tiles that were around when I was a teenager. The ugly, hard, Berber, industrial things that I thought were incredibly ugly and uncomfortable.

"Finer Things"

"Coming Along"
LOVE this one and how it is the look of sea grass but super easy maintenance!

Then I discovered Flor. Ahhhhh! Carpet tiles....you have come a long way, baby!

"Martha Stewart Lattice"

"Crossroads"

If you know anything about me, it's that I love design. BUT, I am also a realist, frugal and very practical. One of the fantastic things about these babies are that you can pull up a tile to clean it or replace it. How much better can it get if:

1. you have kids,

2. you have pets, or

3. you entertain a lot!

"Arabesque"

"Sweater Weather"

The tiles aren't all cheap and your custom rug won't come out necessarily cheaper than a standard size rug, BUT when you factor in being able to save it by replacing one or two tiles versus the whole thing, it's worth paying the same or a little more for.

"Modern Mix"

"Suit Yourself"
Great sisal look!

Do you have any idea how many times I've pulled on the reins when contemplated buying an expensive rug because I couldn't bare to sink a small fortune into something that my sweet babies could ruin in a split second? My readers witnessed that as I contemplated a new rug for my dining room this summer!

"Sheer Indulgence"

"Weave a Story"

"Yeah, Baby!"
This is so fun, yet not overboard with the soft colors!

"Soft Spoken"

To top it off, their catalog has some great product shots in wonderfully designed rooms. So, I get inspired to design in other ways as well. And just so you know, Flor has no idea I'm writing this. It's not because I'm being paid to. I just really like this product and wanted to tell you about it:)

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Facelift on the Cheap: Part 1b

2012-01-14T19:57:00.000-05:00

When trying to figure out how to title this little mini-series, I wasn't sure if each post should be a new part or subsections of a part! Since this is more of a mini-update the first post, I'll just title it section b. Confused? Yeah, me too.

I went hunting for some inspirational images to get the imagination going on how to update the rental kitchen. It's not in the budget to do a big overhaul, so I've got to pick and choose what get's an update and what's livable for a while longer. Here's what I found:

via DecorPad

Source Unknown

via The Painted Cottage

via DecorPad

via Kitchen Source

via Country Living

via Home Hinges

Anyhoo, I've been racking the old brain with ways to update those cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms. The homeowners agreed to get a whole new one piece counter top/sink for the MB in timeless finishes: white and polished chrome. We went with those since the light fixture they just installed over the vanity was polished chrome and white, plus those are two colors that are not likely to ever be dated.

Glacier Bay 61" vanity top with integrated sink
via Home Depot

Glacier Bay Teapot Faucet
via Home Depot

I am also going to be stripping of the chipping paint from the vanity, then applying a fresh coat of dark stain to offset the new white top.

Next, I started playing around with inexpensive and fairly simple updates to the cabinetry mainly in the kitchen. The issue is lack of time, but in the business world, is there ever enough time? Not that I've ever experienced!

How do you take a fairly simple cabinet door that is REALLY dated, but still in good shape, and make it modern without completely replacing it?

Here's a couple of ideas:

If you like white, buy inexpensive 4'x8' sheets of MDF beadboard and cut to size to fit the entire front of the door. Cut lattice stripping (probably 2") and apply it along the edges over the beadboard with construction adhesive and finishing brads. Caulk where the two meet and put a coat of paint on them. Simply screw onto door fronts and caulk where the two meet on the sides to make it look like one piece. Apply new hardware and reattach doors! You could even possibly leave the old stain/paint color on the cabinet frames with the doors going white as I've shown in the renderings I did for the homeowner to look at below.

To scale renderings with white bead board refacing and white subway tile applied over the laminate back splash created in Adobe Illustrator.

Then there was the option of stain instead of white. The problem with this would be the need for real beadboard vs. 1/8" MDF wallboard. All of the real deal stainable is way too thick to overlay. Now, if you were to build totally new ones, it would work as an insert.

After sending the renderings to the homeowners, we decided to stick with stained wood and do something a little more permanent. So, I went back to the drawing board and changed out the white for "stained" veneer overlays that would be glued on along with 2" lattice trim. The veneers would be stained and the cabinet frames re-stained in a more current tone like MinWax Dark Walnut.

There's your update for today. The next step is to go in and strip down a vanity and restain it. Then the trim. I'm thinking I should hit the hay so I can do some work on Monday! Have a good night and if time permits, I'll post updates this weekend. I'm taking lots of pictures!

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Face-lift on the Cheap: Part 1

2012-01-11T12:53:00.001-05:00

I've been a really busy girl over the last couple of weeks, thus the inability to muster the energy to get back into my daily blog posts. Betcha wonder what I've been doing. Well, it's not furniture (which is still waiting). Instead it's been a mini face lift on an older rental house.

The house after it was painted a few years ago. Unfortunately, the paint hasn't weathered so well. The gray has faded unevenly and the burgundy has turned a hot pink!

Back view. It's actually a nice little house.

The house is one of those older ranch style houses built in 1984 (Gee...if that's old then I'm ancient!). It's got the small high windows, stained cheap wood trim, hollow core doors, flat panel cabinet doors with the nice little groove thing around the perimeter that went out with the pioneers, butcher block & faux marble laminate, gold bath fixtures, etc. all nestled in the woods! UGH! Dark and dated are the words that come to mind. I don't hesitate to say that because the owners and I completely agree on all of the above (except for the need to paint trim & kitchen cabinets)...thus the "remodel". Structurally, it's solid, so it warranted a makeover in order to justify the rent. Fifty years ago, this would have been a middle class dream home at 1530 square feet on one acre, but unfortunately in this age it hardly qualifies as such. Now this would be considered a starter home. It's sad, really. Why do we tend to think we need so much these days? Despite being dark and dated, if allowed, I could drastically improve this to meet today's "standards". I'd begin with gallons of warm white paint:)

Want to see what it was to begin with? Brace yourself! Most of these are old pics the homeowner took years ago. I'd have taken newer ones where the wallpaper had at least been removed, but before I could get there, they'd already started ripping out flooring. So, these will have to suffice:

Thinking all the drapery is just a wee bit DATED!

Newer family room picture prior to starting work. If I could only paint the brick as well!
You can imagine what response that would get, so I didn't even go there.

The homeowner has since removed the wallpaper boarder and replaced the chandelier in this dining area with a semi-flush mount. All new lighting was picked and installed by the homeowners prior to me getting involved.

The homeowner did manage to get in just a few more current "before" photos before the work began.
Here's the dining room as it was with it's parquet floor.

Where do I start with this kitchen & breakfast area?!
Dark, more wallpaper border, super dated everything, florescent lights....you name it!

See. It's not much better from this angle! Butcher block laminate counter that continues up the back splash, dated appliances and bar stools, nice little scallop over the sink, and weirdest of all...TWO light fixtures! Some tenant was nice enough to do that for them:) It was probably the same tenant who did this and left it for them (see next picture):

OMG! Is that seriously a stuffed bear hanging in the tree?!!!
Maybe they should run background checks for psychological issues on possible tenants!

Super grainy, but a view of the paneled chair rail and wainscoting. DARK and DATED!

Newer shot of the hallway where they'd started down the right path and painted the paneling out, but not the chair rail. Like the louvered track door? There was one going into the kitchen from the dining room on the right as well.

The main bathroom with it's pastel seashell wallpaper, dated faucet & handles, cabinetry and lighting.

The first bedroom that felt like a cave when we tested out the home owner's first paint choice!

Second bedroom: see the carousel horse in the window? Would you believe the ceiling fan has them on it and mirrors?!

Master bedroom a tenant had painted bright yellow!

Master bath with it's faux pink/yellow marble laminate, gold fixtures, and Hollywood light strip!

When you have a rent house, you have a choice to make: are you going to be a slum lord and just leave it as is renting it out for whatever you can get until it absolutely has to be repaired or bulldozed? Or are you going to keep it updated and maintained to get your maximum rent out of it? The owners prefer the later:) Fortunately, most of what this house needs is just some cosmetic love, with the exception of installing larger windows.

So, it was time for a serious redo, but we have had a few mitigating factors that influenced the design decisions: fixed lower budget (it's a rental), the fact the owners live half way across the country, and a husband who's of the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" mind-set as well as a stained wood lover. I say that factually, not critically. He's entitled to like whatever he wants. It's his house! It's purely a matter of opinion. It's my job to do what pleases while trying to gently help them see what exactly makes a house feel dated. And it's not that I don't like stained wood. It's just that white would appeal to more people - specifically more women who tend to be the final say-so in chosing a house. It would also reflect more light making the spaces feel larger and brighter. But, it's not in the cards, so I've had to get creative. How do you keep the budget minimal, get the desired updated look, and still please the client? Sound familiar?

I'm not going to lie. It ain't easy! The first thing done was to go in and rip out all the flooring. They'd already decided to install 3/4" hardwoods throughout the living, dining and hallway and new linoleum in the bathrooms. It didn't take much arm twisting to get rid of the carpet left in the bedrooms, even though it was actually still in decent shape for a rental. The problem was the color. I think it was called "Mocha" but any "chocolate/coffee" had turned decidedly lavender over the last twelve years! Ick!

My favorite part - that was not cheap and pretty much blew a good chunk of the budget - was the hardwood floors. They did those all on their own and I give them a huge thumbs up on design! Budget wise, I'd have probably not spent the extra on laying it on the diagonal in a rental, but it does look nice! They used 3.5" wide white oak planks on a diagonal, sanded and left UNSTAINED...just polyed in a satin finish at my suggestion. Glossy is beautiful, but shows wear, drips, and dust considerably more than a satin finish, which is also a little more subdued and appropriate for this space. Again, the house is going to be lived in by tenants with little to loose should the floor be scratched!

Example of white oak solid 3/4" flooring without stain and just polyurethaned.

Example of a wood flooring laid on a diagonal and left unstained.
via Hardwood Floorist

Once floors were all picked out, then it was time to pick some paint colors that were as light and neutral as we could get to brighten the space up without being taste specific. Here's what we went with:

SW 6133 Muslin
Used in the kitchen, family/living room/bathrooms/upper portion of hallway.
Awesome color and looks fantastic with stained or unstained wood! Just enough color to be creamy but not yellow.
Ever so slight of a greenish tint in some lighting.

SW 7536 Bittersweet Stem
We lightened this with two parts Muslin: one part Bittersweet Stem.
Used in the bedrooms, dining room, and on old paneling and chair rail in bottom half of the hallway.

The wife wanted color, which everyone knows I'm usually enthusiastic about, but in this case I had to reel her in due to limited light and her bent toward pinkish undertones. Bittersweet Stem is a gorgeous warm mid-tone neutral, but in bedrooms with dark wood trim and small windows, it was cave-like. White trim would have made all the difference, but like I said, it wasn't going to happen. So, I mixed in some Muslin and we came to a lighter version that we both liked - a warm light neutral that was slightly darker than the Muslin used in the main living areas.

Then, because I don't mind grunt work if it pays, guess who got to do the painting of the ENTIRE HOUSE?! You betcha! Talk about exhausting! Five days of hitting the floor running with lots of coffee holding me up until I fell into bed around 10-11 at night. Painting is something I do well, so because the pay was good I enjoy it, I was willing to take on the job with a little help from Grandma and hubby watching the kiddos:) I'm a glutton for punishment, aren't I?!

As of now, all new flooring has been installed (I've not seen it yet) and every square inch of drywall painted with two coats (I would know!). Coming up....new appliances installed, a possible (if time & homeowners will allow) creative solution to old but solid cabinets that I'm not allowed to paint, new window dressings, a good pressure washing for the exterior, new lighting & ceiling fans, back splash update on the cheap, touched up trim and new kitchen hardware. Did I mention it's all supposed to be done by the first of February and yours truly is doing a lot of the work? Hey, if I can and they're willing, why not? Makes for good blogging material:)

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Kitchen Organization Inspiration

2012-01-04T15:29:00.001-05:00

I don't know about you, but when the new year rolls in, I am sooooo ready to send the Christmas decor packing! As much as I love Christmas, I get a twitch with all the clutter decorations that come out after about a week.

The area that I am currently focused on trying to get organized is my kitchen and pantry. That room drives me crazy! When we moved into this house, I was pregnant with baby number three and everything was just kind of thrown into a spot. It hasn't been properly organized since. Gee. I wonder why?! In our previous houses, I've always had a spot for everything and everything was in it's place. This house has turned me on my head! Wait...maybe it's not the house. Maybe that's just what having three kids (boys) does to you!

Anyhow, I went on a hunt for some inspiration. I've got to get this place whipped into shape. Clean counters and everything having a place out of sight if possible makes me so happy! For a long time I've stashed kitchen/pantry organization ideas into a "Dream" file to be used for building my dream home. I'm needing some direction so I pulled them out and went hunting for more. Want to see? I KNOW there are plenty of you out there who need to do a little organizing as much as I do, and dreaming never hurt anyone:)

Traditional food containers and storage design by Etsy via Houzz

I love the old blue Ball canning jars. I'm slowly building a collection to use as storage like the below picture.

Me likey!
via beachbungalow8

Cabinet and drawer organizers design by Los Angeles general contractor JDL Construction

via Houzz

Modern cabinet and drawer organizers design by Lowe's

via Houzz

Cabinet and drawer organizers design via Houzz.

Cabinet and drawer organizers design by Amazon

via Houzz

Traditional food containers and storage design by Stonewall Kitchen via Houzz.

Food containers and storage design via Houzz.

3 Tier Expanding Spice Shelf Rack via The Container Store.

Source unknown.
Book shelves on either side of the cook top.

Can rack via The Container Store

Mirrored pantry door for a little visual expansion!
via Centsational Girl

Great entrance into a huge pantry!
via Atlanta Homes Magazine

pantry via Better Homes and Gardens

Adding a little background to the mundane is genius!
via House of Smiths

Sliding Cup Rack via The Container Store

Magnetic Knife Rack via The Container Store

Maxing out the storage possibilities!
via Home Crest Cabinets

Make use of the end of those cabinets! Easy retrofit.
via Home Crest Cabinets

Slide out storage for the awkward pots and pans.
via Home Crest Cabinets

Another spice storage option.
via Home Crest Cabinets

Spice storage pullout option.
via The Container Store

Love this knife storage option! Under mounted and pull down.
via The Family Handyman

Another way to hide the command post!
via The Family Handyman

Finally! A pretty under shelf basket (Vinea) that isn't so utilitarian looking!
via Organize

Wall Door Lid Rack via The Container Store

White Elfa Door Rack System for the pantry.
via The Container Store

Wrap N Bag Organizer via The Container Store.

Under sink pullout via Rev-A-Shelf.
If I had a really little dog, I'd put a curtain here and stick the dog bed up under there! Mine always wants to sit at my feet anyway when I'm at the sink. Plus, there's a heat vent directly underneath...built in heating pad!

These are one of my all time favorite gadgets! I just bought some today to retrofit into my sink cabinet and the bathrooms are next:)
Pullout Tray Caddies via Rev-A-Shelf

Wasted under cabinet space is a pet peeve of mine and these rock!
Single Swing out Pantry Shelf for Under Cabinet via Rev-A-Shelf

Gotta have a hidden place for those PRISTINE white hand-towels. Right? Not in a world with kids!
via Rev-A-Shelf

There you go. Some of the organizational goodies that have caught my eye. Everyone has different needs, but these would make me a very happy girl:) Beware, though. You could go broke with all the cool gadgets out there!

Like what you see? Let me know by becoming a follower!

p.s. I'm such a goofball! I titled this wrong and posted it with a future post heading!
At least I caught it, right (wink, wink)?!

I'm Baaaaack!

2011-12-20T18:22:00.000-05:00

via meg-moir.com

Betcha thought I had quit blogging, didn't you?! Nope. Just had to deal with the last month or so's worth of exhausting events. I've been kind-of down since the loss of hubby's grandfather, who was more like my own grandfather than an in-law. October 31st he was admitted to the hospital to be diagnosed a few days later with stage four lung cancer that had spread to the brain and lymph nodes. Thirty days later, he left us to go be with our heavenly Father.

Now, I'm not a big cryer....mainly because I'm not a "pretty" cryer, so I always hold it in. I'm one of those lucky people whose face blotches all up, the nose and eyes swell shut, and if I have on mascara...I look like I've been in a train wreck! But, over the last couple of weeks, I've cried more than I have in a long time.

Grandfather-in-law was doing pretty well until the last week of November. He was taken to the hospital for a severely swollen arm that turned out to be a massive blood clot. That was the beginning of the end and he knew it. Up until then, he'd been so hopeful he could beat the cancer, but at that point his tune changed and he quickly went downhill. God was incredibly good to him, though. He only had to take morphine the last three days and it was all over in a month's time. He was at peace and ready to go. The night before he passed, I could barely hear him as he held my hand, told me he hoped he see me on the other side and asked me to pray with him. Such a precious and sweet goodbye:) God answered all those prayers being lifted that he not suffer and when he slipped away, it was quickly and peacefully. What a blessing considering what we were all prepared to have to watch and deal with! What an awesome, loving and merciful God:)

So, now I'm trying to shake the sadness and get back into the swing of things, although I've made some changes lately. After spending nearly every day of the last month at the nursing home or hospital, I realized I had been given a gift I hadn't been fully using. Because I am a stay-at-home mommy and wife, I have the freedom to be available for those who need me in a way those working aren't. I became convicted of the fact that my 93 year old grandmother needed me more now as well as hubby's grandmother. So, I made the decision to give up my booth for the time being. As obvious as the decision was, it still was hard to do. I wanted to keep trying to fit it all in, but this past month has shown me that I just can't right now. My grandmother is in declining health. It's now my morning routine to take little guy to go check on her for "coffee" each day, once we get the other two off to school.

Now, let me clarify: I am still going to be doing projects and all the stuff I did, but the pressure of having to have pieces ready before the next sells is off of me for now. The store manager knows I plan to open my booth back up when I'm not needed so much. In the meantime, God has lined up an incredible amount of custom work, so I've still got tons to do and show as projects are completed and a little more time to devote to working on our own home!

Right now, we're enjoying Christmas break with the family and counting days until Santa comes and we can sing happy birthday to our Savior! How about you?

Pottery Barn Knock-Off Idea

2011-11-26T12:46:00.000-05:00

Ever since I started this blog, I've wanted to recreate and post tons of ideas, but I just simply don't have time to make them. So, I thought I'd just share the ideas I have and let run with it if you feel so inspired.

I see things all the time and think, "I could make that!". The trouble is finding the time. Generally, the only pieces I get to redo are ones someone either wants or I need and we can't afford the original.

This particular idea is one I've had for a little while because it's so easy! Ready?

via Pottery Barn

Plant basket, burlap, and hanging light kit...knock-off for around $25 versus PB @ $179.99!

Here's the materials list I'd get:

Black hanging basket for around $11.87.via Pinterest

Burlap via Amazon

$3 p/yd!

Pendant kit via Lowe's.com

Chain to thread cord through in order to hang basket from light cord. $8.98 for 10' but could probably get by with less at Lowe's. It would need to be adhered to the fixture cap at the ceiling and again at the end of the chain to the basket chains.

A simple lamp parts would suffice, but you'd have to take apart the top of the pendent kit to retro fit it with a metal ring like this:

This image clip was taken from the original pottery barn picture above so I can't get it any bigger.

Some hot glue and a halogen round bulb from Walmart ... and you've got yourself a beautiful chandelier that no one will ever know you didn't pay a fortune for (unless you tell them)! I actually like telling them and watching their faces:) Aren't I a stinker?!

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Thanksgiving Blessings

2011-11-25T17:48:00.002-05:00

"Fall Leaves 1"
B.E. Photography

"Fall Leaves II"
B.E. Photography

Did you have a great Thanksgiving yesterday? Ours was wonderful although a little bittersweet. We had so much fun just catching up and hanging out with family we've not seen in a while, but were acutely aware of a certain missing couple. All of us had so hoped that hubby's grandfather would be able to join us, but instead he was readmitted to the hospital for a massive blood clot on Tuesday. Hubby's grandmother spent the day with him there having what he called a "Silent Thanksgiving". We really do have so much to thank the good Lord for. I know she was counting her blessings for having another day with him.

So, what did you do? Did all the family get together and cousins all play football/baseball/tag, etc while the grown-ups chatted away? That's what happened here! After a wonderful meal and even better fellowship, we all packed up and made our rounds to the hospital. It was truely a wonderful day that could only have been better if the grandparents could have joined us. Even my nearly 94 year old grandmother joined us! Amazing!

Life events have just not allowed me to blog much over the last month, and I have really missed it. Hubby has taken the three boys hiking for the day and I'm enjoying some much needed time alone. So, I though I would start catching you up by sharing photos of my dining room all ready for guests yesterday. The sun was shining, temperatures were in the 70's and it simply couldn't have been more beautiful! With the sun streaming through, I had a little trouble getting some shots in before everyone arrived.

My "new" dining room!

I wasn't sure about putting the love seat in the foyer, but everyone seems to love it there, so it'll stay. It's a nice extra seating area now. Scottie Dog obviously approves!

I bought these placemats a couple of years ago and have been waiting to use them somehow. I love the form and organic quality of them. They fit perfect in the "new" space.

I found these gorgeous little gold mercury glass votive holders and they made the perfect table "runner".

They just glitter when the tea lights are lit!

Like my last minute brainstorm for a buffet?! The palms had to be moved in from the screened porch as it's finally hitting below 40º at night...thus no pretty urns. I need to get some if they're going to sit in here for the winter.

It's three pine beadboard, tongue -n-groove planks (samples hubby was just going to toss!)
laid over some storage cubbies. Linen fabric was stapled around and black/gold Greek key ribbon was adhered with super sticky hemming tape to hide the staples and add a touch of black to tie in with the lamp/accessories.

See?! Just cheap old storage cubbies turned on end underneath! It's actually a good place to hide kids shoes:)

Black ribbon with a gold Greek key pattern was added to the lampshade.

See my new draperies and side chairs? Aren't they just gorgeous? The drapes add the much needed drama in this room.

The back of the side chairs was done in a black fabric with gold & copper embroidered dots. Then a soft gold cording was added to both front and back of all chairs.

The head chairs were done in the reverse... black on fronts and plaid on the back.

I couldn't find a third coordinating fabric until I stumbled upon these 95" curtain panels in a faux silk plaid on clearance for about $12 each. They were perfect, so I just cut them up and used them on the chairs! Wha-la!

I fell in love with these large candelabra sconces and waited until
Hobby Lobby ran their 50% sale. Two for the price of one!

Gotta have some magnolia branches!

I was captivated by the flickering mercury glass!

Loving the way the light plays around in here with the chandelier dimmed and candles all lit:)

There's only a few more things to do and I can call this room a wrap! I'm not sure I'm leaving the ceiling blue, but it'll stay for now and a painting may or may not get done at some point. Regardless a rustic gold frame is being made for the boys current art as soon as I can get to it.

The four slipcovered chairs need to be reupholstered, but the slipcovers will stay on unless we're entertaining. The boys have been informed those are the only chairs they are allowed to TOUCH! I ended up with quite the headache when I realized (AFTER tearing off all the upholstery on the back of a head chair) that the back was not made as I thought. It was all one solid piece with a 3/8" groove for a staple gun to fit into! I don't have a gun with a nose for grooves, couldn't rent one, and couldn't install upholstery tacks in such a tiny space!!!!! UGH! What's a girl to do? Hot glue, baby! I decided if it could hold the piping on for ten years with three boys, it was good enough to hold on more fabric as well. So, I only pulled off the piping and just installed new fabric over the old with hot glue. That way it was glued to old staples that were going nowhere, added cording and called it a day.

To sum up all that has happened in this room over the last three months:

ceiling was painted,
chandelier was refurbished,
chairs were upholstered,
buffet was created,
rug was bought,
draperies were made (2x!),
slipcovers were made,
walls were painted (3 colors - 2 coats each)!)
wainscoting and trim was painted (2 colors - 2 coats each!),
lamp shade was trimmed,
front door was painted,
new wall sconces were purchased and hung,
furniture was repositioned (multiple times!),
and several nervous breakdowns/tantrums were had!

Whew! Whoever thinks designers don't earn their pay, just hasn't walked in their shoes:)

"Fall Leaves III"
B.E. Photography

Happy Belated Thanksgiving, Ya'll!

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I'm so excited...

2011-11-17T23:07:00.000-05:00

♩ ♪ ♫ ♬... and I just can't hide it ♪ ♫ ♬! I have been eyeing a fabric at Hancock's on the Red Tag shelf for a while to try for curtains in the dining room. I just haven't been happy with the lack of "umph!" in that room. It needed some drama somehow, but I wasn't quite sure how I could afford to bring it in. I get tons of ideas, but then have to toss most when it comes down to budget or what I realistically have the time to recreate.

Before I delve into that, I first want to share some photos I took two days ago. I got up extra early before the alarm went off and walked into see this out my dining room window!

"Be still...and know that I am God."
B.E. Photography

"Be still...and know that I am God." II
B.E. Photography

"Be still...and know that I am God." III
B.E. Photography

I felt such a sense of peace as I marveled at this gorgeous site. God was reminding me to not fret and worry about the events currently going on in our lives. To rest in his grace and as Psalms 46:10 states:

¹⁰ He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth.”

Time has been super limited lately for me to work on projects, but I've been spending many blessed moments at the rehab center with my dying grandfather-in-law. No project or decorating can even hold a candle to that. I've been able to witness God working in our family lives in ways words can't describe. What a blessing!

O.k. So, about that fabric. It's been calling to me quietly every time I've walked in Hancock's lately. Finally I just decided I was going to buy some, try it and if it didn't work, take it back. My curiosity was getting the better of me. Imagine gold taffeta flocked with a large black damask pattern all over! Talk about formal! That would be why I kept hesitating. It's about as formal as you can get and has some serious body to it as well. While I was in, I also decided to get a black crinkle polyester with what I thought were olive and copper embroidered small dots all over it as a second option to try as well as some black and tan silk plaid pre-made curtains panels on the 60% rack (off already reduced prices). I'm sure those girls hate me in there because if something doesn't work, I make sure and take it back. I can't afford not to! And I never buy small amounts, either:) Actually, they know me by name and start laughing when I walk in and head straight for the cutting table! They know I'm there to have something measured to return:)

I knew this drapery fabric would go wonderful with the new foyer rug, but was just really worried about the formality. I'd take pics and pop them on here, but I'm exhausted tonight and will do that tomorrow. Long story short, I felt that wonderful feeling of "Ah Ha!" come over me as I realized I'd found the perfect fabric at a price I could afford!!!!! Not only that, but the second option coordinated so well with the drapery fabric, rug, and slipcovers, that I decided to use it to reupholster the two head chairs and the plaid on the other chairs! WOW! Suddenly, I'm feeling immensely relieved as I realize this room is finally about to be totally done. And not just in a "O.K." kind-of way, but in an "I'm so happy!" kind-of way (even though hubby doesn't much care for the chair fabric - yet!)! I'm now frantically working to finish the four remaining chairs and get final touches done to show you before Thanksgiving. See, I went and put myself on a deadline by offering to have the huge extended family meal here on Thanksgiving day! NO PRESSURE! Secretly, though, I work best when I've got deadlines to meet. That's why I self-impose them on a regular basis.

This meal will be extra special though. God willing, my grandfather-in-law will be able to join us for one more Thanksgiving. His diagnosis came back about two weeks ago as very aggressive stage 4 lung cancer that has spread to the brain, wrapping around the spinal column and into the lymph nodes. These are hard days right now, but I'm just praying that God will allow us all to get together one more time. There are no guarantees as we're on a day to day basis, but then again, aren't we anyway all the time? Some serious thanks will be given on that day if he's able to join us as well as thanks that everyone else can be there!

I can't wait to show you the finished product! I think you're going to agree with me that it just pulls it all together. Now, to get those chairs finished up...

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Monday Inspiration #5

2011-11-15T22:53:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's really Tuesday, but let's pretend I'm not behind, shall we? I spent yesterday ripping upholstery off my dining room chairs only to realize that my staple gun won't fit down inside this odd layout groove on the backs to reupholster them! UGH! Now I have to either go rent a REAL staple gun or buy one. It's been on the list forever, but now I've gotten myself to the point it's do or die time (I mean, we're only going to be USING those chairs in a matter of days!). $$$...feeling a little sick as I think about draining more moo-la from the bank account. Oh, well. At least it's something that will get used A LOT and is really needed.

"Golden Glory"
B.E. Interiors Photography

"Golden Glory II"
B.E. Interiors Photography

Anyhoo, I finally got around to doing your inspiration board with my beautiful fall tree pic I took last week. Ready?

Brainstorming - what this photo brings to mind - my jumping off point:

sweaters,
hot cocoa, coffee, cider,
fires,
picnics,
jeans,
gold,
baskets,
casual,
rubies,
topaz.
rustic (just a little juxtaposition going on here!)
pumpkins,
wheat,
warm sunshine

This picture is just Pottery Barn all the way. So, most of my decor items are coming from there today. With all that running through my head, here's where I ended up:

Follow me on Pinterest and you can see all the sources for these images!
All my Inspiration Boards are posted on there as well.

There you go. A new board to inspire you. Hope you like it and it makes you feel all warm, cozy and totally inspired to get your family room ready for those cold days ahead!

Coming soon to a computer near you...
My ideas on how to reproduce a beautiful chandelier for the fraction of the cost!

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Sideboards

2011-11-12T20:08:00.000-05:00

My idea of a beautiful sideboard. Lots of storage, yet not flush with the floor. Curves and straight lines for both masculine and feminine appeal. Not to mention some gorgeous crotch mahogany!
via sideboards.com

A sideboard/buffet/server just completes a dining room. They are so practical! It's a serving piece, storage unit, beautiful accent, and if all else fails...a room filler! Add a stone topper and you can even set hot dishes on it! Imagine....me liking something practical! Shocker, I know:)

I got to wondering what the difference is in those three pieces? Are they all the same thing? I ask because whenever I refer to a "sideboard" I often get a funny look here in the south. I'm then asked if I mean a "buffet". The answer would be "Yes". They are three in one, although the proper name is apparently a sideboard that is used to serve a buffet meal. For those of you who already knew that, ignore my ignorance/confusion. I have a sneaky feeling I'm not the only one who wasn't clear on this:)

"Sideboards are also known as buffets as they may be used to offer the dishes of a buffet meal to guests.

A sideboard is an item of furniture traditionally used in the dining room for serving food, for displaying serving dishes such as silver, and for storage. It usually consists of a set of cabinets, or cupboards, and one or moredrawers, all topped by a flat display surface for conveniently holding food, serving dishes, and even lighting devices. The overall height of the tops of most sideboards is approximately waist level.

The earliest versions of the sideboard familiar today made their appearance in the 18th century, but they gained most of their popularity during the 19th century as households became prosperous enough to dedicate a room solely to dining. Sideboards were made in a range of decorative styles and were frequently ornamented with costlyveneers and inlays. In later years, sideboards have been placed in living rooms or other areas where household items might be displayed.

In traditional, formal dining rooms today, an antique sideboard is a desirable and fashionable accessory, and finely styled versions from the late-18th or early-19th centuries are the most sought after and costly today. Among its counterparts in modern furniture styles, the form is often referred to as a server. Some of the earliest production of sideboards arose in England, France,Belgium and Scotland. Later, American designs arose.^[1] Characteristic materials used in historic sideboard manufacture include mahogany, oak, pine, andwalnut."

via Wikipedia

I've wanted a buffet for a while, but... also typical of me....I haven't found one I thought was cheap enough. Darn my champagne taste! So, the search continues. China cabinets can be pretty, but since I'm not really in love with my china and wonder why I registered for it to begin with, there isn't much use for one in my dining room. A buffet would just be so much more useful for big family get togethers and having friends over. We aren't formal people, but we do use the dining room a good bit...for casual get-togethers. Everything is a help yourself concept around here when entertaining:)

My idea of a great buffet or sideboard is one with legs that doesn't sit right on the floor. When light is able to pass through underneath, it lightens the visual weight of the piece as well as creating more of an open feeling within a room. In order for it to not just be a console, though, it also needs to have good storage. Just because it's not flush on the floor, doesn't mean it's going to have a tremendous amount of space between the floor and bottom drawers. A good example is the Federal style sideboards that I love (apparently so does everyone else!). French Provencial runs a close second. In my hunt for the perfect piece, I've run across all kinds and styles, which I thought I'd share with you.

I SO wanted to keep this piece, but I needed it at the booth and of course...it was gone in no time:)
B.E. Interiors

I love this idea of repurposing old card catalogs!
via andreaolsen.wordpress.com

via roomandboard.com

via wantstudio.com

via therustichome.com

via sideboard.com

How cool is this concept of an extendable sideboard?
via alfredoharber.com

via restoration hardware

via handcraftedtable.com

via thialandtrade.net

via clarnerwoodworks.com

via fokal.com

via icollector.com

There's our lesson for today! I am like a sponge...constantly soaking up new info I run across, especially when it's related to home decor/design. I also discovered while image hunting that the subject of sideboards/buffets is quite a common post topic. BUT, what I didn't find was the main thing I was looking for...clarification on exactly what is what. Maybe it helps clarify the term for some of you:)

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Living on the Wild side!

2011-11-09T21:04:00.000-05:00

Ok. I have two things to show you today. One is my inspiration board photo for this coming week (I've missed a few as my creativity was nowhere to be found) and the other is what I did this morning that was just a little on the crazy side! But you know what? You only live once!

First, check out this gorgeous scene I photographed today! I drove past this tree this past Saturday and had to go back up this morning to get the shot. With the light just streaming through the leaves, it looked like heaven on earth! The pictures don't due it justice. I'm lucky I got the shot because I had to park along a busy road and wait for the perfect minute to snap it with no cars in the scene! It also completely inspired me to do next weeks inspiration board for you.

"Golden Glory"
B.E. Interiors Photography

"Golden GloryII"
B.E. Interiors Photography

"Golden GloryIII"
B.E. Interiors Photography

The next thing I did was go from being blonde w/natural red low-lights to RED! Gads! Now, truth be told, I have a lot of red in my hair naturally, but I have down played the red and highlighted the blonde most of my life. I've felt like a change lately so I decided to enhance my natural color (which has gotten darker after having children). I bought a box of light auburn hair color and THOUGHT it was going to be a light reddish brown. WRONG! It's a very natural looking...RED!!! As I was drying it, I kept staring at it thinking that somehow it was going to lighten as it dried, but it didn't. The funny thing is, though, after the shock wore off, I realized I REALLY like it! Who knew? I've always suspected if I would just go for it, I would, but now I know. Little guy didn't get red hair from nowhere. There's a lot of it in my family, so now he just looks legit! Wait until the hubby comes home and sees what I did:) This ought to be fun. (wink, wink!)

"Oh, Looocy! You got some 'splaining to do!"

via blogs.edutech.nodak.edu

I told you it was RED!

I think I like this new do (now that I've picked my mouth up off the floor)!

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Salt Marsh Inspiration

2011-11-08T07:00:00.010-05:00

I hunted for images to use as inspiration for a marsh scene painting (to go in the dining room) since I'm not close enough anymore to go take my own shot. I thought I'd share them:

via Palmetto Bluff Resort

Awesome Place if you want a great get-away!

St. Mary's River via protectingourwater.org

Tom Blagden, Jr. photograph

via gigisislanddays blog

via refugewatch.org

Susan Sinyai painting

via beachchairscientist.com

via tripadvisor.bmp

via red bubble

Aren't those beautiful?! The first is my favorite by far, but the others all over more inspiration. If I don't end up painting my own, then a "frame" is going to built for the boy's existing art. This will be one of those things that "may" get done... if time permits. I really want to do it, because it's been a long time since I did a fine art painting, but if the last few months have taught me anything, it's that I've got to be flexible and take it a day at a time... not planning to far out in advance:)

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Dining Room Reveal (Finally!)

2011-11-07T10:29:00.002-05:00

My fall table scape.

Well, let's see. It's only been THREE MONTHS since I started this redo, but I finally have something to show you! Sometimes, when it's my own home, I can take a long time to get a room done. There's several reasons for that:

I'm a perfectionist (UGH!).
I want things I can't afford, so I have to come up with alternate ways to get the look...often meaning I have make them (time consuming).
I do all the work with absolutely NO help. I don't even ask the hubby, so that's not a reflection on him. His job is so stressful and he hates doing decor/reno stuff so much, that I don't even go there (and then I get fussed at on a regular basis for not asking!).
It's not my top priority. I have a family to raise and furniture to redo on the side. My personal home decor sometimes has to come last.

All that aside, I still can't say it's completely finished, but I've kept you in the dark long enough. So, ready to see where we're at? Warning: These are not the best shots I've ever taken by far, but due to time constraints, they're just going to have to work:)

Dining Room - unstaged! This is where it's at folks:)

Then I decided to rotate the table. I've got a problem in this room. That love seat is monstrous and really throws off the alignment in this room, but I've got nowhere else to put it. I'd just get rid of it, except I really enjoy sitting in this room! So, I just keep moving things around hoping somehow I'll find a way to make it work.

The foyer with the newly installed beadboard wallpaper and paint. I'm really liking how this area is coming along. See that fabric just draped over the table? I want more of it, but can't find it anywhere. It's the perfect colors to tie everything together. Eventually I plan to put a buffet here, thus the two buffet lamps siting so close together on a little table!

I'm still not really liking the white walls. I'm thinking they're going to go a shade darker (same as the foyer) and possibly a damask tone-on-tone stencil will be applied when ever I'm ready to look at this room again(!).

I decided to experiment with this room. I've ALWAYS stuck to white moulding and trim work. This time, I decided to switch it up. The walls went a soft creamy white and the moulding got the color.

A tremendous amount of time was spent trying to decide to take the plunge. It's an open concept house, which means you see the family room, foyer, part of a hallway and part of the kitchen all from the dining room table. I was worried that if I started down the road of painting trim, it would turn into a nightmare as it would eventually drive me crazy that it wasn't all painted the same color. But, finally my curiosity got the best of me and I just went for it.

I also put blue on the ceiling! Most of the time I've kept the ceilings white, but I love a blue ceiling, so up it went! Like I said, I'm experimenting. I'm still not 100% sure I like the ceiling color with everything else, but I'm going to live with it a while and see how I feel later down the road. One thing I am sure of...I absolutely love this trim color. It's a lucky find (excuse me... devine intervention!). $20 for a five gallon bucket of semi-gloss on the "Oops" shelf! After putting dabs on numerous paint cards, the closest match I've found is Benjamin Moore's Bennington Gray. It's so dead on, that I didn't even see the spot I dabbed on the card until the light hit it right.

via Curbly.com

Now, looking at these photos, I have to remind myself how it could have possibly taken this long to get this far! It's not a complicated room, BUT... What you don't see is the three layers of paint on the main wall, the three layers of paint under the chair rail, the time spent remaking the chandelier, making curtains and slipcovers, the two different sets of curtains I couldn't choose between, and rug hunting all on a non-existant budget! The biggest time killer was the painting, though, by far.

It wasn't until today that it finally hit me why this room has been so difficult to paint. Even though it has a humongous window, tons of natural light and faces east, for some reason, the light that comes in other than first thing in the morning makes it feel cold! Normally a room like that could handle fairly cool colors and be fine. Not this room! It just kept feeling cold and uninviting. It wasn't until I put the Oops! color on the chair rail in the foyer next to the warm creamy yellow above it on the wall that it hit me why I didn't like that room white - even a warm white! It needs a very warm cozy color. Trouble is, it needs to be warm and cozy but not too dark. So, eventually it will probably be painted the same color I have in the foyer and hallways - Behr's Informal Ivory. I'm absolutely loving the combination of that and the oops in the foyer and want to just take it on into the dining room. It's bright, but has a creamy yellow warmth to it...like being wrapped in sunshine. (Ironic! I'm sitting here typing about sunshine while it's night time and pouring rain outside the window!)

Just for fun, I took the current pic of the dining room into Photoshop and tried different paint colors on the walls. The other option...should I ever want to go dark on the walls would be a the warm brown I was planning to use and just haven't put up yet because I wanted to keep it light. Behr's South Kingston. And just for a little more fun, I put black on the walls!

Ummm! Wrapped in chocolate!

How daring would a warm black be on the walls!
If time (and money) was no factor, you better believe I'd try it... just for kicks:)
I know it would look great, but I'm not sure I could live long term with it.

So, what is there left to do? Well...I'm trying to make myself leave the white on the walls just a little longer, but I'm just not feeling it. I am almost certain it'll end up going the Informal Ivory - same as the foyer. I'm also not totally sure I want to leave those curtains. I'm still playing around with some other fabric ideas. The head chairs still have to be reupholstered and EVENTUALLY I want to paint a marsh scene to hang as the main art work.

Well, there you go folks. That's where it's at for now. I've spent way too long thinking about this room. A few more changes are still to come, but for now, it's at a stopping point. I've got to jump back on the furniture bandwagon. I've been down too long. It's amazing how grief and exhaustion can take a toll on your creativity. We're still not out of that stage by a long shot, but all those prayers are renewing my spirits. Thank you!

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Saying Goodbye is Never Easy

2011-11-02T10:32:00.000-04:00

"Angel Wings"
B.E. Interiors Photography

¹ There is a time for everything,

and a season for every activity under the heavens:

² a time to be born and a time to die,

a time to plant and a time to uproot,

³ a time to kill and a time to heal,

a time to tear down and a time to build,

⁴ a time to weep and a time to laugh,

a time to mourn and a time to dance,

⁵ a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,

a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,

⁶ a time to search and a time to give up,

a time to keep and a time to throw away,

⁷ a time to tear and a time to mend,

a time to be silent and a time to speak,

⁸ a time to love and a time to hate,

a time for war and a time for peace.

-Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

A long "To Do" list sits here staring me in the face as I type. I had so much planned to get done today, but not a thing on that list got checked off. Instead I spent the day doing something very unplanned and much more important... standing in a hospital holding the hand of a man who is slipping away. I'm struggling to wrap my brain around the goodbye process to a man I've grown to love more than I ever could have imagined 11 years ago. No, I'm not referring to my hubby, although the same would apply to him. The man I am writing about would be his grandfather.

Two years prior to getting married, I lost both of my grandfathers within a one month period of time. My world was rocked, to say the least. Both were in declining health, so it wasn't a shock, but I thought they both had hung the moon:) They could do no wrong and their passing was hard for me. Although very different in personality, they both embodied a spirit of Godliness that is priceless... especially to an adoring granddaughter who only got to see them occasionally. Both lived out of state and at least a full day's drive away, meaning visits weren't near as often as I would have liked, but it was all I knew.

When Hubby and I got married over 11 years ago, I suddenly had a new grandfather figure to help fill the void. He's the big, strong, gruff, intelligent yet stubborn/ornery sort who loves the Lord with all his heart. I instantly felt a bond with the man who so reminded me of my own grandfathers. I love him even more for the fact that he knows Jesus loves him despite his imperfections and shortcomings. From what I've been told, he has a past, but he left it in the past a long time ago. I truly admire his faith in God's love, mercy, forgiveness, and faithfulness. What a blessing to have gotten to know this man (who was more of a second father figure to my husband than a grandfather) in the later part of his life... and to see the evidence of God's ability to transform and heal. Nothing is beyond His ability!

Over the last four years I have been able to experience what it would have been like to live close to grandparents. My children have had a chance to get to know their great grandparents (my grandmother and his grandparents) in a way that would have been only a dream a few years ago. For the last six months, I have actually been able to walk to both of their retirement homes with little guy in the stroller and Scottie Dog on a leash!

It's amazing how unimportant that "To Do" list suddenly becomes when faced with losing a loved one. Take the time to cherish each moment you have with your family and loved ones, because you never know when it'll be your last. I don't know how exactly how long we've got left with him, but I know it's not much and it's slipping away suddenly and fast. This is the first time my children have experienced losing someone close to them and it's difficult to prepare them for what's ahead. It's also hard to watch your spouse (and his family) go through losing someone who they are so close to.

So, bear with me if the posts are a little random over the next week or coming weeks, but rest assured, they won't all be morbid and sad. The wonderful thing is he is at peace with this more than we are and is very sure of where he will spend eternity. I know God has a wonderful plan for all of us and we are counting our blessings even through the tears:)

2 Corinthians 1:3-5

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.