Hi Sugarplum!

Here's What's Up

2012-02-24T07:00:00.001-06:00

It's Friday!! Aaaaaaaw yeah! I am definitely ready for the weekend, how about you? I can't wait to curl up with my computer and check out all the travel tips you gave me for British Columbia! Thanks so much, eh! (Last time, ~~promise~~.) My head is awhirl with activity today, so I'll just get it out there.

Yesterday I was able to meet the talented Pam of Pixelimpress for lunch, and it was so fun to talk with someone who gets the whole online/bloggy friend thing! She's the creative girl who made my packages so fun for Christmas...her tags and cards are the best.

via

Me thinks I need some calling cards now! (For no reason other than to say, "Here's my calling card. Call me.")

via

We have friends from our Nashville days, who now live in Montreal, visiting family in Texas (you follow?) this weekend. I'm beyond excited to see them!

via

My design ADD has kicked into overdrive, and my head might explode if I don't duplicate Courtney's ridiculously amazing frame project immediately!

via

The frames in my Dining Room are positively begging for brass corners. Nevermind that I'm in the middle of two other room projects.

My mom has been buttering me up to come help her with some house projects. She's even offering free lunch and gas if I come over Sunday, which naturally has me really worried about what she wants me to do! Of course I'll go, if only so I can mention it when the time comes to sand my secretary!

via

This image from Pinterest was my favorite this week. I challenge you to stare at it for 5 seconds without smiling.

via

And, I'm guest posting at Tiffany's, from Living Savvy today. She's got a fun Spraypainter's Anonymous Series, so go check it out. I promise it's more than just mindless ramblings.

So that's what's up in my head and our house this weekend! Thanks for letting me get it all out. What are you sweet peas up to this weekend?

via

We Booked Our Trip, Eh!

2012-02-23T07:00:00.006-06:00

I'm doing a little jig in my chair today, because we just booked the tickets for our annual trip! These trips are like a shot of Prozac for our marriage...it's our time to get away from everything and everyone, and just enjoy being together! As soon as we got the grandparent's okay (the babysitters!), we hopped on American Airlines and booked our mileage seats to.....

Vancover, via

Vancouver!! I know it's totally cliche, and probably annoying to Canadians, when people follow a sentence with 'Eh', but we get a kick out of it, eh! Kind of like when Northerners come South and love to hear us say 'Y'all!' Mr. Sugarplum and I got engaged in Canada, so it holds a really special place in our hearts. We fell in love with Banff a few years ago, and can't wait to explore more of British Columbia.

There is so much to see and do, so I'm hoping my amazing Canadian readers (and those familiar with the area) can lend a hand with our itinerary. Here's what we're thinking right now:

Explore Vancouver, including the suspension bridge and biking Stanley Park.

Suspension Bridge, Vancouver, via

Ferry through the Gulf Islands to Victoria, and spend one night near the harbor.

Victoria, via

Drive up the coast of Vancouver Island, and spend three nights in Tofino or Ucluelet.

Tofino, via

Where we can storm-watch while walking the beaches,

Long Beach, Tofino by Andre Berube

Hike Pacific Rim National Park and the Wild Pacific Trail,

Wild Pacific Trail by James Wheeler

And hopefully spot a few whales in their annual migration south (could you die?!?!).

Whale Watching in Tofino, via

Then we'd ferry back to the mainland, and drive the stunning Sea to Sky highway to Whistler.

Sea to Sky Highway, via

Whistler Mountain closes the weekend before we arrive, but we'll stay in Whistler Village and hopefully ski Blackcomb Mountain for two days.

Whistler Village, via

It's definitely a lot of driving and moving around! So what tips, golden nuggets, little gems of information can you share on the area?! Something not to be missed? A favorite hotel, restaurant or shop? We haven't booked anything but our air (for the end of April), so we're still flexible on the locations and routing. Of all our travels, we've found Canadians to be the most open and nicest people. So y'all look out, we're headin' North, eh!

{DIY} Dipped Bottles

2012-02-22T07:00:00.003-06:00

I'm sure by now you guys are sick to death of seeing my bookshelves! But each time they end up in a post, I get comments and emails about the pink dipped bottles on the top shelf. Which always reminds me that I have a handful of DIY projects sitting on these shelves....that I've yet to post! And then I forget about them again.

So today I'll share the one most asked about...the DIY Dipped Bottles!

I started with this random assortment of glass bottles, that I somehow collected over the years. Chances are, you have a few similar. I wanted them to have a uniform look in the bookcases, and be an accent for the room.

So I spray painted the top portion white and let it dry completely. Overnight is probably best. Then using painters tape, I covered the painted area and sprayed the bottom portion pink. I let that set a few minutes, then carefully peeled the tape off. Do this slowly so you don't chip the white paint. I stood the bottles upside down overnight to fully dry before bringing them inside.

Granted the bottles don't see a lot of action (or none), but I've had no problems with the paint staying on the glass. I rushed mine a bit so they turned out a little sloppy...that's how they ended up on the top shelf.

Just another example of spraypaint transforming the plain to fabulous! And since I already owned the paint, this project cost me nada! Nunca. Nothing. Isn't that the best kind of project?!

I'll get busy writing about the other simple projects on the shelves. Do you have similar glass bottles? There are so many options for changing them up!

{Pool Bathroom} The Doors are Painted!

2012-02-21T07:00:00.009-06:00

You guys have shown that you love to give your opinion! And I love it...your feedback is invaluable. I mean really, not many people in my 'real' life would humor me while I debated the merits of green or blue lamps, and navy or pink doors!

These decisions are important, right!? And even though your votes put blue as top choice for door colors in our Pool Bathroom.....

The hinges need to be painted navy.

It wasn't enough to convince me I was ~~completely~~ crazy for going pink! In fact, blue beat pink by only 10 votes! I love them....but at the same time I'm not so sure. But it's only paint, so if I'm not petting them once all the accessories are in place, I'll just paint them again!

This tiny space is really hard to photograph, and the door color was found on the Ooops Shelf at Home Depot, so I can't give you a name. But it's a reddish pink, similar to Babygirl's bed.

This totally random and boring picture shows a true depiction of the door, wall and ceiling colors.

And you may recall we had some problems pop up after we thought the renovation was complete. Turns out the gap in the frameless shower door was too wide, so a good amount of water was escaping. I was ready to ~~suggest~~ demand a new door (thanks to your encouragement), but maybe not after seeing their fix.

I assumed a strip of silicone sweep running up the center of the glass would look horrible. But truthfully, you can't even see it! Mr. Glass Guy told us to live with it for a bit, and if we don't like it he'll refit the glass.

And the damage made to the dry wall by the escaped water?

Our rockstar contractor tiled over it to protect the wall from any future escapees.

I also gave the painter a free pass on the walls (he used a nappy roller when we were going for a smooth lacquer finish), but told him to remember this when it comes time to paint my Dining Room! He is coming back for all the necessary touch-ups though. (See, I'm not a ~~complete~~ pushover!)

The light fixture came with shades, so I'm trying it with and without. I thought the round bulbs looked more modern, but turns out, they look a little (ahem) phallic.

Now it's time to get busy accessorizing. And I know some of you are balking at the Crayola box happening in here. But keep in mind, it's the bathroom right off the pool...so a certain amount of creative freedom is allowed. I hope.

Reader Projects

2012-02-20T07:00:00.002-06:00

Happy Monday, friends! I hope some of you lucky ducks are enjoying a three-day weekend. Even though I have to work, I'm gleefully tallying up the votes from the latest Lamp-A-Looza! I can't even believe how many of you weighed in with your choice...you know I wasn't giving the lamps away, right!? Thanks for the input, and I'll be sure to get back to you with the top choice!

I am such a fan of blogs and bloggers. I'm inspired by them everyday, and love being part of this creative community. So when someone emails me a project that I inspired, I'm shocked and flattered! Today I thought I would share some Reader Projects that have popped up in my inbox recently.

Jenny Beth at Life On Lyford made this gorgeous pelmet. It makes her little girl's room so sophisticated...and I love her monogram!

Amy at Eat. Sleep. Decorate made a wood shim starburst mirror for over her bed (love those linens!),

Roosevelt Kid filled an empty spot with a similar one,

And the talented Abby at A Delightful Design rocked this painted version!

Nancy saw our article in the Dallas Morning News and created an Art Center for her daughter!

Terra from Another Stay Home Mommy blog was inspired by Babygirl's room colors and pelmet, and created a fun space for her daughter.

Carolyn was sweet enough to send me pictures of her pinecone wreath...so pretty against her green door!

And Jennifer at Moonpie Dreams proved that Martha Stewart's Plummage looks great anywhere! She transformed an old sideboard with the beautiful color and fun knobs.

Amazing projects, girlies, and thanks for sharing them with us! To see my version of these projects, check out the Project Gallery. Tomorrow I'll show you the painted Pool Bathroom doors....are they pink or navy?

{Living Room} Lamp-A-Looza

2012-02-16T07:00:00.009-06:00

My love for ~~paint~~ ~~chocolate~~ ~~cardigans~~ lamps runs as deep as Carrie Bradshaw's love of shoes. I am incapable of ignoring the lamp section, in any store! I especially love finding lamp treasure in unexpected places. And in my geeky off-time, I play musical lamps in my home. You may recall the most recent Living Room lamps were gold with black drum shades. I never really loved them in this room. Too tall, dark and ~~handsome~~ heavy in front of the bookshelves.

But after we got new chairs, I discovered I really loved them in the Dining Room!

Which meant the shorter urchin lamps....

Moved to the Living Room. Where they looked like lamps in a whack-a-mole game, with only the tops visible.

Something in between those two sizes was needed, and as luck would have it, I found three great options! I don't want to cloud your opinion, so I'll hold off telling you where. Each is still attached to the package so Rita Return can do her thang once a decision has been made, so just disregard the box under each.

Previous Lamp-A-Looza posts revealed your adoration of lamps, so you get to help me choose! (Because you know I'm decision-making-stunted.) First up are the clear stacked balls TWSS. I like that they don't detract from the room, but the bases are a bit puny, they are a tad too short, and I have a similar lamp in Babygirl's Room.

Disregard the carpet cleaner in the corner and the urchin lamps on the floor. I couldn't be bothered to move them.

Next on your ballot are the mossy green gourd lamps. Good sized base and height, and the color pulls from the pillows, rug and wingchair.

Ignore the wreaths, too. I've since taken them down.

And finally for your consideration, the smoky blue gourds. Good sized base and height, and the color pulls from the pillows, sofa, rug and armoire.

It's a tough choice, right?! I really like each for different reasons.

And the shopping spot of these surprise treasures.....Lowes! Yep, who knew?! Each base (lampshade not included) is less than $25. Can't beat that with a stick.

So what's your vote:

A. Clear

B. Green

C. Blue

D. Who cares, please stop talking about lamps and finish the Living Room for crying out loud!

Bullseye!

2012-02-15T07:00:00.003-06:00

Designers say switching out throw pillows is an easy way to change a room. But I've been struggling to find my first set! The addition of the West Elm ikat pillows were a great start since they combined the blues and greens that are floating around the room. When I mentioned all the pale blues and pinks were getting too sweet for my taste, my clever mom suggested adding pops of red for more vibrancy. And guess who came through with the perfect red pillows?

Target, baby! And as pillow luck would have it, these even contain the same shade of citrine green as the West Elm ikats, and perfectly match the tomato red in the rug.

The red pillows (sorry, but I can't find them online), along with the pops of red in the bookcase, give this room just the edge I was looking for! Didn't someone say every room needs a touch of red?

The red DIY Elephant Bookends help to balance the soft pink of the bookcases, and bring out the vibrant colors in the artwork.

Ooops, I just realized I've yet to post the other DIY projects in the bookcases. Those are coming right up. Sometime. Eventually.

I kept the Wilmington Covington pillow because it combines all the colors of the room, and the floral is a nice contrast to the geometric. I do wish it was a different size or shape, but I'll try not to obsess over that ~~too much.~~

I also struck gold with Target's Chevron Shade. I'm crazy about the stripey pattern paired with the sweet bird floral of the lamp, and the gold is just perfect. Duh!

The gold has a nice metallic sheen in real life, and even more so when the lamp is turned on.

So what do you think...did I hit a bullseye with my Target finds? (Get it? Target, bullseye??!) We're getting down to the end on the Living Room To Do List....obviously I'm dragging my feet where the secretary is concerned. (Anyone want to come help me?!) Oh, and you may have noticed the lamps behind the sofa aren't the black and gold ones. I did a little switcheroo, and stumbled upon some new ones! Lamp-a-Looza vote coming up next!!

LIVING ROOM TO-DO LIST

~~Paint Armoire~~

~~Paint Brick~~

~~New Mirror & Mantel Styling~~

~~Paint/Fabric Bookcases~~
~~Re-Style Bookcases~~

~~Paint (Replace) Table Tiles~~

Paint Hall Chest

Paint/Wallpaper Nook Walls

~~Paint Backdoor~~ (decided against it)

Add Nailhead to Wingchair

New Covers for Barrel Chair Cushions

~~Change Out Lamps~~

~~Customize Lamps~~

Sand & Stain Secretary

Gold Leaf Back of Secretary

~~Sofa Pillows Round 1~~

~~Sofa Pillows Round 2~~

~~Add Some Coordinated Accessories~~

~~Determine Fate of Side Table~~

~~Close the Hole, Baby!~~

Last Minute Lovahs

2012-02-14T07:00:00.002-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day, my sweets! I've hosed you down with an absurd number of Valentine projects and ideas, but if you're still empty-handed, here are a few last-minute sentiments you could email. After smacking yourself in the head for being so clueless, of course.

All cards found here

Surely you're familiar with Some Ecards? They are hilarious, and so completely inappropriate that I couldn't bring myself to post my favorites (like this one and this one). Whatever this day has in store for you, I hope it's filled with love! Let's get back to the job of home decorating tomorrow, shall we?!

Here's a Bloggy Tip for You!

2012-02-13T07:00:00.003-06:00

Hello friends! Today we're taking a break from projects to talk bloggy bidness. I love blog comments...like, looove comments! I love them like popcorn with Milk Duds (which is a lot!). I even receive every comment via email, so I'm sure not to miss any. I've talked about making friends in this awesome blog community, and the way to do that is to strike up online dialog. And I can only do that if I'm able to respond to your comment, or other bloggers are able to respond to mine.

I'm talking to you, No Reply Blogger Person! If you have no idea what I'm talking about, then I'm probably talking about you! How about some visuals to clear things up?

Here's what my email looks like when I receive a comment from someone who has their Blogger account set "properly."

See, there's an email address tied to Amanda's ID, so I'm able to respond to her question easily by just replying to the email.

Here's a comment when it comes from someone who has their account on lock-down (probably unintentionally).

Oh man, MicahTj, I'd love to tell you I found the glasses at a thrift store, and I'm pretty sure they still sell them at World Market. But I can't respond to you because your email is blocked. (Class, we're not picking on MicahTj, we're only using her as an example!) Since she's ~~the dreaded~~ 'No Reply Blogger,' I am left with three options:

I answer the question with a comment on my own post, and hope she goes back and checks it. But who actually revisits a blog post? I don't even remember what blog I'm reading half the time!?
Search her out online and hope to find contact information. Let's be honest, this isn't going to happen. I'm busy hot gluing stuff.
Ignore the question and feel like a complete ass for it.

I don't like any of these options, so let's get to the solution and fix this ~~naggy~~ bloggy problem. Log in to your Blogger/Google account and click 'Dashboard.' It looks like this:

Then click 'Edit Profile.' There you'll see a line that reads, 'Show My Email Address'. Click the box and be liberated! The email address you enter here is simply where you wish to receive responses. Bloggers ~~shouldn't~~ won't spam you or hunt you down, and no one will advertise your email address on a banner behind a plane. Make sure to save your new Setting.

Now our interactions can look more like this!

This fix is for Blogger/Google people. You smarty-pants WordPressers are too high-tech for me, and I have no idea how to help you. But I do know that I'm not able to respond to most of your comments.

So let's be friends! Please update your settings so we can get to chatting!*

*Disclaimer: I do not respond to every comment (you know, because of the whole busy-hot-gluing thing), but I will always answer the questions!*

My Fashion & Home Faves

2012-02-11T09:00:00.002-06:00

I' m excited to be hanging out with Anna at A Newfound Treasure today. Come check out her 'I Heart' Series, where bloggers are sharing their current home and fashion crushes.

I had a hard time narrowing it down (shocker!)...hop over to A Newfound Treasure and see if we share a brain.

Happy Saturday, lovebugs!

{Valentine's Day} Muslin Treat Bags

2012-02-10T07:00:00.015-06:00

Oh hi -- here we are with yet another Valentine craft! I swear I'm not obsessed with Valentine's Day! In fact, other than a few treats, the kid's school party is the extent of it for us. Mr. Sugarplum and I don't even exchange swank gifts or have a big blowout date. I just like an excuse to create little crafts. And truthfully, 30 minute projects are a lot more appealing than some of the bigger beasts awaiting my attention (i.e. sanding and staining the Living Room secretary!). So even though it's been all Valentines all the time, this is the last one.

I had these muslin bags laying around from our Advent Calendar, so I decided to decorate a few for the latest holiday.

Just be sure to insert a piece of cardboard before stamping so the ink doesn't bleed through the other side of the bag.

I wanted a bit more razzle-dazzle, so I accented the stamps using glue and microbeads. I have no idea why I had these in my craft stash, or for what Martha suggests we use them!

But they're pink and cute, and give the bags some texture.

I used the stamps I had on hand and created just a few bags to give my family for Valentine's Day. Truthfully, I just wanted an excuse to buy cinnamon gummies.

I pulled the drawstring out of the bag and closed them with satin ribbon. Hopefully that keeps me out of them until next Tuesday!

Have a sweet weekend, lovebugs! And if you're looking for sweet things to whip up this weekend, check out the Valentine's Day Gallery. Even though having an entire gallery of projects completely negates my claims of not being Valentine obsessed. Whatever.

{Valentine's Day} Cookies on a Stick

2012-02-09T07:00:00.014-06:00

Food just tastes better on a stick, doesn't it? Maybe it's because if you're eating something on a stick, chances are, you're at a fair or theme park, and it's pure junk food! Either way, putting these simple heart cookies on a stick takes them from ordinary to something fun and special.

Sure you could roll out your cookie dough and cut the hearts before baking, but that would just be more mess to clean and less scraps to gobble up. So I made my favorite oatmeal chocolate chip cookie recipe (her name is Betty Crocker, and she comes in a bag that requires some butter and an egg), and spread it in the bottom of a greased pan. The dough is sticky, so I sprayed the back of a spoon with non-stick oil so it would spread smoothly and evenly.

Let them cool just a little before cutting the hearts. It really is unfortunate how many scrap pieces are left over that you're forced to eat.

Lightly press your fingers on top of the cookies and insert the sticks.

Once they've cooled completely, they'll be adhered to the stick.

We added pink frosting and candy eyes for a fun touch...and because my food decorating skills don't go beyond this. They make a cute centerpiece by standing them up in floral foam in a little bucket with filler.

We refrigerated them so the frosting would set completely, then put them in treat bags tied with ribbon.

With a chalkboard tag, they make fun and easy sweet treats for friends and neighbors.

Except for the batch we kept for ourselves!

Yes she owns a hairbrush. We just don't use it on the weekends.

How do you like to decorate your cookies? And what's your favorite food on a stick?

Simple Lace Votives

2012-02-08T07:00:00.005-06:00

Not every project has to be (or can be) monumental. Sure, we all love big room makeovers and furniture before & afters, but we also have lives! Lives that only allow for a few extra hours to spend on projects (if we're lucky). Today's post is a simple and sweet project that you can do in those precious minutes between life's responsibilities and collapsing in to bed each night.

I was so smitten with the black lace votives from our Halloween Mantel, that I made a lighter version for Valentine's Day. All you need is a scrap of lace trim, glass votive and ribbon.

I attached the lace to the glass with a small piece of double-stick tape (I don't want these permanent), then tied it with some bakers twine.

Sweet, fast, cheap and easy! That seems to be a recurring theme around here lately!

{Pinterest Project} Cinnamon Roll Waffles

2012-02-07T07:00:00.003-06:00

It's time for another {Pinterest Project}! This series is where I step away from the computer, and actually make something I saw on Pinterest...usually giving it my own twist. The pinsperation behind this delicious greatness comes from A Hen's Nest.

All you need is a can of cinnamon rolls, and a waffle iron! I went with the over sized Grands rolls, because I'm gluttonous like that, and an old Toastmaster waffle iron my mom ~~threw out~~ gave me. No bells and whistles around here!

Let the iron get good and hot, then spray it down with enough non-stick oil to enter a body-building contest. Place one one giant roll in the center, close the lid and wait 3-4 minutes. They come out soft and waffle-like in the center, but with a slightly crispy shell. *drool*

Since Valentine's Day is around the corner, I added a few drops of red food coloring to the can's frosting before drizzling over the hot Cinnamon Roll Waffles!

You'll need to re-spray the iron between rolls because they tend to stick. And be forewarned, the cinnamon clumps will make a hot mess of your waffle iron....but sweet mother, is it ever worth it!

I have made these THREE different times in the past few weeks, and everyone always goes BONKERS for them. Seriously, I may never make waffle batter again! Thanks for the amazing idea, Henrietta!

What do you think? Me thinks it's B4D (breakfast for dinner) tonight ~~again~~!

{DIY} Brass Figurines

2012-02-06T07:00:00.021-06:00

Hello, friends! Who has tight pants this morning, after six long hours of snacking?! I'm raising my hand, that's for sure! And when I wasn't shoving back chips and dip, I was spray painting cheap animal figurines!

Seems my Animal Bookends started a new addiction! But since I'm determined to turn my house into Liberace's Lair, this time I got busy with metallic gold.

I raided the kid's toys and found this hefty elephant. I've been dying to try Martha's new liquid gold leaf and high gloss finish, and I thought the actual gold flecks would look more authentic. Unfortunately, it never fully dried on the plastic, and was still tacky several days later. (Not tacky like Christina Aguilera's spray tan, but tacky like sticky to the touch.)

So I went back to my original method and whipped out the spray paint in Metallic Brass. BAM...Brass Figurine!

Just like the potato chips I was inhaling, I couldn't stop at just one!

Another rampage turned up this fun giraffe. (I recommend asking your kids before stealing and painting their toys.)

And to prove that you can find cool stuff anywhere, I picked up this horse head at Hobby Lobby for $4! You just have to get past the shame of looking in their 'Western' section.

I think it's pretty cool as-is, but my trigger finger was still unquenched, so he ended up brass, too!

Clearly I'm on to something, since the fabulous Jonathan Adler is selling oodles of ~~insanely-priced~~ brass figurines. I think I'll stick with mine for mere dollars apiece.

These little guys are perfect for creating vignettes and adding bits of personality to a room. Somebody stop me before I spray paint the neighbor's dog!

{Valentine's Day} Free Printables

2012-02-03T07:00:00.002-06:00

You guys are so awesome! I'm thrilled you loved the Animal Bookends and can't wait to show you the next round (hopefully Monday!). Our good friend, Friday, has finally rolled around! Holla! Besides shoving our faces with Game Day food this weekend, we'll be decorating shoe boxes for the kid's Valentine Parties, as well as finding treats for their classmates. I like to give our Valentines a special touch (not found on the aisles of CVS), so I thought I'd round up some of Blogland's cutest, free printable tags and cards. Just click on the link below each image for printing instructions.

Hello, Good Gravy -- Tags

Love vs. Design -- Love Coupons

Eat, Drink, Chic -- Mini Cards

Fellow Creatives -- Cards

One Charming Party -- Class Valentine Cards

Hello Lucky -- Cards

Sprik Space -- Cards

Eighteen25 -- Tags

Mommy by Day, Crafter by Night -- Coupon Book

A Fanciful Twist -- Tags

Pumpkins & Posies -- Cards

I still have these adorable zebra cards Bunny Cakes personalized for Babygirl last year, so I'll probably use them again since she's at a new school.

Bunny Cakes -- Tags

Our son put the kibosh on anything remotely cutsey, so his will likely be pretty basic. What are you all up to this weekend? Watching the ~~commercials~~ game?

{DIY} Animal Bookends

2012-02-01T07:00:00.007-06:00

Hello and happy February 1st! Where have you gone, Father Time?! Did you know February has 29 days this year? Does that mean there are 366 days in 2012? Weird. I guess our employers get a free day out of us. *disgruntled*

Today's project is one I am stupidly, inappropriately giddy about, and I couldn't wait to share it with you! I'm also on a roll with the $2 project this week, since my only purchase was....wait for it.....

.....Plastic elephants from the dollar bin! I found these at the Target ~~Danger~~ Dollar Zone for $1 each, and the spray paint I already owned (duh). As for the rocks, you can find them in the garden department of the hardware store, on walks in park, or stone yards. I happen to have a stone yard nearby (kind of random, right?!), so I grabbed my 'Rattlesnake Rocks' (that's really what they're called) there. The poor guys were so confused by my request, they just let me wander around and take whatever scraps I wanted.

I originally planned to use stone tiles as the bases, but they were too small and not heavy enough to hold the weight of books.

I didn't love the tusks, so I trimmed them off with scissors, then gave each animal a few light coats of spray paint. I wanted the rocks to sit straight, so I filed the bottoms down using our concrete driveway. A dot of super glue to the bottom of each foot adheres the plastic to the stone.

Here are the mighty elephants now!

I think my Living Room was getting too sweet, with all the soft blues and pinks, so I'm adding some pops of red to liven it up. The Elephant Bookends are the perfect addition to our Updated Bookshelves!

Oh, Elephant Bookends, how I love thee! (See, stupidly, inappropriately giddy!)

So are you off to raid your kid's toy closet, or the local dollar store? You can find these plastic animals everywhere! In fact, I can't seem to stop spraying them, and have another goodie to show you soon! As well as more red accents!

** Also linking up to Home Stories A to Z, Tip Junkie, Uncommon Slice of Suburbia, Just a Girl, Remodelaholic, The Shabby Nest, The DIY Showoff, TaterTots & Jello, Serenity Now and Thrifty Decor Chick**

{Valentine's Day} Paper Heart Runner

2012-01-31T07:00:00.003-06:00

Thanks so much for the love on my new chairs yesterday! Hopefully I didn't enable your online shopping habit too much. I'll make up for it today with a cheapie-cheap project! How's $2 sound?

I found these packages of paper heart doilies in the Target ~~Danger~~ Dollar Zone. I'm not big on Valentine Decor (despite me having an entire tab of Valentine projects!), but I do like a few sweet touches here and there.

So I whipped up an easy table runner, perfect for the Breakfast Room. I measured how long I wanted it to be, then just arranged the hearts in a pattern I liked. Once that was done, I went back and added a dot of glue to the underside where each heart overlapped (that dries clear).

Allow the glue to dry and you have a cute runner that adds a bright pop of color to a Valentine tablescape.

Not too shabby for 5 minutes and $2, right?! The spotted plates are currently on clearance at Target, since they consider them Christmasy. I'll use them for Christmas, Valentine's Day and all the patriotic holidays!

The Breakfast Room is my favorite spot to add some Valentine fun, since it's where we tend to gather as a family. Last year's Paper Heart Garland hangs from the window.

Are you working on any sweet things for your Valentines? I've got a few more easy-breezy ones coming up!

** Also linking up to Home Stories A to Z, Tip Junkie, Uncommon Slice of Suburbia, Just a Girl, Remodelaholic, The Shabby Nest, The DIY Showoff, TaterTots & Jello, Serenity Now and Thrifty Decor Chick**

Mama's Got a Brand New Chair

2012-01-30T07:00:00.002-06:00

Or six new chairs, rather! Happy Monday, lovebugs! How was your weekend? Other than the permanent indention in my right hand from tightening FIFTY-FOUR 3-inch screws with a 4-inch Allen wrench...mine was divine! I wasn't actually in the market for new Dining Room chairs ~~yet~~, but when Overstock sends you a 15% off + free shipping code, you're going to check out your options!

Seeing as how my Dining Room looks like a giant brown Buick took up residence, I knew I'd eventually make some changes for the lighter.

Don't get me started on my list of projects for this room! ~~(Rug, chairs, paint, curtains)~~

Turns out, my option was the Crown Fabric Off-White Dining Chairs! I've purchased all kinds of things online, but never something as big as six chairs. Sure shipping was free, but if Rita Return had to get involved, sending them back would not have been. So needless to say, I was just as nervous as I was excited when the boxes showed up (less than a week later!)

Since the price was so great and they're from Overstock, I wasn't expecting much in the white-glove department. I was shocked to find them perfectly packed, with the upholstered pieces wrapped in individual drawstring bags!

But then I spent the next 15 minutes ~~shrieking~~ ~~destroying~~ searching the box to find the other chair legs and parts! "Son of a biscuit, no wonder my chairs were on sale, they don't have legs!!!" Before my fit reached wall-eyed status, I realized the seat cushion flaps peel back....to reveal chair legs and assembly parts. Really, nothing gets past me. Thank goodness no one else was home, or they'd surely have had me committed.

It was easy, but tedious, to attach the seat bottom to the back, and then the front two legs TWSS. The chairs are incredibly solid, with no wobbling, and the tufting and trim are flawless. The material is a natural linen, and the cushion is thick with a nice spring. I'd definitely give them 5-stars!

My table could seat eight, but it'd be a chair army in here. So I'll keep it at six, and bring in smaller, extra chairs from the Breakfast Room when necessary.

It's amazing how much lighter and brighter the room already is!

Okay, so I've made other changes since the 'Before' picture above, but we'll address that ~~if I ever~~ once I complete the Living Room makeover! (Remember, one room at a time! Ha!)

You may recognize the Metallic Lamps. I did a little switcheroo, which means we have another Lamp-A-Looza post coming up!

And for the big comparison, here's the Before & Afters.

Don't the chairs just change the room completely? The lamps help, too. Aaaaaand, I've already sold the old chairs on Craigslist, which puts my total expense at $200!!! Crazy, right?

I can't speak for other chairs, but I can vouch for these and Overstock. And you can't beat the prices! (They aren't paying me to say this, I promise!) So next time a coupon code pops up in your inbox, maybe you should just have a peek!

It's the Little Things

2012-01-27T07:00:00.004-06:00

Thanks for the sweet words on my outfit yesterday! And the key to my bun staying put? Dirty hair. For reals. Also, several of you asked how I created my Project Gallery. I use InLinkz , but instead of using the 'Link Tool' (like for link parties), use the 'Link Manager.' Once you've uploaded each of your blog links, you create Collections and drag the project to them. After installing the HTML on your blog, it will automatically update each time you add a new link. It sounds confusing, but you'll get the hang of it quickly. I suggest watching the video they have posted, it's very helpful and much better at explaining than I!

Big purchases like this one are exciting, and nauseating all at the same time. There is a lot of pressure when an item carries a big price tag. However, sometimes small purchases can make us just as happy.

On my recent trip to West Elm, I was wooed by their new collection of linens. I mean monogram + stripes?! That's pure bliss.

This little hand towel makes me strangely happy, and I think it completes this corner of the Kitchen. That's a big accomplishment for a $10 ~~rag~~ towel! It really is the little things that bring the biggest joy, isn't it?

I'm becoming one with the Allen wrench and should have these chairs ready to show you next week, and hopefully a Valentine project or two! What are you up to this weekend? Enjoy it, friends!

{Outfit Inspiration} Magenta & Black

2012-01-26T07:00:00.004-06:00

It's been awhile since we've had an {Outfit Inspiration} post. No fear, I haven't been running around nekkid, I've just been having a fashion dry spell. Instead of being inspired by my closet and creating fun outfits, I've been grabbing comfortable stand-bys. My apathy has also spilled over to my hair, so there's been a lot of buns and ponytails. I think it's about time to pull myself up by my sweat pants!

Magenta and leopard is a good way to bring some style and spunk back in to my daily life!

I'd usually be more inclined to grab a pale pink cardi for this skirt and top combo, but instead made it more season appropriate with a black cardigan and tights.

True it's easier to throw on pants and a sweater. But it's not like I'm terribly inconvenienced by the weather here, so I need to get back to embracing my more feminine style.

If you've been reading these {Outfit Inspiration} posts for awhile, then you've probably noticed I favor a bell skirt. I'm pear-shaped and short-legged, so a fitted top with flared bottom looks best on me. And I almost always belt my natural waist, which is a flattering look for everyone. If you're interested in a slimmer waist with longer legs, that is.

Has the Winter season put you in a fashion slump?

{Outfit deets: Top: Banana Republic; Cardi: JCrew; Skirt: Old Navy; Tights: Target Assets; Shoes: Giani Bini Maryjanes; Belt: had so long I can't remember}

And a very Happy Birthday to my sweet Lindy Bird! My 'baby cousin' is 30?!? Lawdy, I'm getting old!

Blog Housekeeping for Better Browsing

2012-01-25T07:00:00.004-06:00

Some of you may have noticed, but I've been doing some organizing around Hi Sugarplum! I was having a hard time finding my own projects, so I figured you guys didn't stand a chance. It's a bit tedious, but I have most everything rounded up in this handy Project Gallery spot.

I'm still playing with the groupings and categories, but the pictures will definitely make it easier to spot projects.

I didn't realize the severity of my sweet-tooth until I saw all my Git in Mah Belly posts in one spot.

I'll also add a separate tab for projects related to any upcoming holidays.

My Blogroll is constantly growing, especially since I actually use it as my reader. I update it frequently, and recommend all of them as great reads.

My sidebar is starting to look like Sanford & Son, so I'm hoping to clean that up some, too. Feel free to play around, snoop in my drawers and cabinets, and look under the bed. And if you'd like to see more categories in the Project Gallery, or have other ideas, please let me know!

This Stool is Stepping Up

2012-01-24T07:00:00.006-06:00

I'm sure to spend this post fluctuating between snickering and gagging. You don't really think too much about a word until you write it. Repeatedly. For an audience. Such is the word 'stool.' Many of you ~~grown-ups~~ would have never thought twice about me discussing my stool makeover. But if you've been reading this blog for awhile, then chances are you're snorting along with me. So let's talk stools, shall we?!

Every home with young kids has a little step stool like this in a bathroom. I mean, how else are they going to glop toothpaste in the sink and spray water all over the mirror, if they can't reach? I guess I'd gone too long without holding a paintbrush, because I spontaneously decided this stool needed softening.

I raided my fabric swatches for something that coordinated with the Kids/Guest Bathroom, and found this sample. I had checked it out from JoAnn Fabrics ages ago for $5, and apparently never taken it back. I'm assuming that means I paid for it, and it's mine? Hope so, because my stool is wrapped in it.

These samples are the perfect size for a throw pillow or other small project, and $5 is a fraction of the cost per yard for these high-end fabrics. Jackpot! Does anyone know the proper protocol for "purchased" samples? (JoAnns refunds your $5 if you bring the sample back.)

Moving on. For the base, I simply took my fabric to the craft store and chose a coordinating color from the row of $1 acrylic paints. After brushing on a few coats, I sprayed it with a high-gloss finish. Then I cut the fabric to size and stapled it to the underneath, folding the corners like a package. (No foam or batting needed since this is a foot stool.)

Remembering this stool's intended ~~mess-maker~~ user, I covered the top in a second layer of clear plastic shower curtain liner, to protect the fabric from water and stains. Using oil cloth would be perfect for this kind of project, but I didn't think of that until after. You could also use clear contact paper, or laminated fabric.

Now instead of junking up the bathroom with kid gear, this little stool adds to the decor! (Just because kids use it, doesn't mean it has to be hosed down with yellow duckies.)

Of course it looks like this everyday. Don't your kids keep their bathrooms this tidy?!

I chose green to pull from the Anthropologie knobs and plants, and foresee this color ending up on the "5th wall" at some point. The wall stripes and shower curtain have a slight purple undertone that also work well with the fabric.

Someone needs to touch-up that vanity paint. 'Someone' usually means me.

I'd say $6 for paint and fabric is a steal for a custom step stool that looks intentional for this space!

Kid tested and approved!

Have you turned an everyday household object into something special? Don't flog me, but if you're in the know regarding the fabric samples, please share with the class.

** Also linking up to Home Stories A to Z, Tip Junkie, Uncommon Slice of Suburbia, Just a Girl, Remodelaholic, The Shabby Nest, The DIY Showoff, TaterTots & Jello, Serenity Now and Thrifty Decor Chick**

{Pinterest Project} Chalkboard Mugs (as Teacher Gifts!)

2012-01-23T07:00:00.005-06:00

Hello and Happy Monday! I hope you had a grand weekend. We had a fun night out with friends, I struggled through Babygirl's first slumber party away from home (with non-family), and we whipped out some Valentine crafts...so it was a good weekend for us. Oh, and I primed the doors in the Pool Bathroom!

The {Pinterest Project} Series is where I step away from the computer, and actually tackle a project I've pinned...but adding my own twist. I kicked off the series a few weeks ago with Scrabble Coasters, and today it continues with Chalkboard Mugs! My pinsperation is this pin from Wit & Whistle. Amanda's mugs are so fun, but she special-ordered porcelain paint that required ~~patience~~ baking. I wanted to do neither, so I made mine with Martha Stewart's Multi-Surface Chalkboard paint found at my local Michaels for $4 (with coupon).

I found these over sized, flat-bottom ~~girls~~ mugs in the Dollar Spot at Target (aka Danger Zone). I played it safe and painted the bottom half of the mug, so it wouldn't come in contact with food or lips.

Using a small bristle brush, I applied 3 light coats of paint, letting it dry completely between each one. And unlike wall stripes, I found this paint did better if you let it dry completely before pulling the tape off veeeeeerrry slowly. After curing overnight, I rubbed them down with chalk, wiped clean, and personalized with pink chalk.

Yes, I have horrible penmanship. They'll just think the kids wrote it.

I took advantage of the flat-bottom and wrote messages I thought suitable for teachers. Babygirl told me 'Zip It!' wasn't appropriate, so I switched to 'Bottoms Up!' Knowing my kids and their friends though, I'm sure the messages their teachers would choose are even more inappropriate.

And since the mugs are gifts, we wanted to fill them with goodies. I can't get enough of My Owl Barn's free customizable calendar, so I printed extras, backed with thick cardstock, and bound by a heart-shaped brad.

I added shredded paper (I buy mine at the dollar store) and chocolates with the calendar, and tied a piece of chalk to the mug's handle so they could write their own ~~profanities~~ messages. The paint gives no washing instructions, but after this whoopsie, I think it's probably safer to just hand wash.

Each mug is packaged in a clear gift sack and tied with a piece of satin ribbon.

It's the perfect inexpensive Valentine treat, that's sure to show our sweet gratitude. Thanks Wit & Whistle for the great inspiration!

Are you whipping up goodies for your Valentines? What message would you write on the bottom of your mug?

** Also linking up to Home Stories A to Z, Tip Junkie, Uncommon Slice of Suburbia, Just a Girl, Remodelaholic, The Shabby Nest, The DIY Showoff, TaterTots & Jello, Serenity Now and Thrifty Decor Chick**

Well This is Cool!

2012-01-20T07:00:00.005-06:00

Did you know West Elm had a blog? I sure didn't, but now it's on my ~~milelong~~ list of daily reads! Especially after they were kind enough to feature Hi Sugarplum and my new throw pillows! (Slow news day on the West Elm front?)

I think it's pretty cool to have my house and West Elm in the same screen shot. I love their stores, and always devour every single page of the catalog. Their stylists do an amazing job, so I'm thrilled they like what I did with their Ikat Pillows! Thanks West Elm, and feel free to send me anything else you'd like to incorporate in the Sugarplum house! I've got my eyeball on a few things...

And I LOVE all the comments you guys are leaving on the Navy vs. Pink Door post...go voice your opinion if you haven't yet. I don't think I'm any closer to making a decision, so I won't be doing any door painting this weekend. Hopefully I'll bust out a few Valentine projects to show you next week though. What are you up to this weekend? A little West Elm shopping, now that I've added fuel to your lusting fire? Enjoy every second of it, lovebugs!