Little Miss Martha

Yikes Stripes!

2012-02-08T06:35:00.000-05:00

I knew I wanted to do something kind of fun and different in the Nursery closet. I thought about trying to stamp the walls with a potato stamp, but decided that would not work out as I'm not really artistic. I wasnt really sure, but i wanted there to be a space on the floor to play, read, whatever.

So I decide to stripe the closet walls to start the space off. When I was 9 months pregnant. Oh yea, Mr. K was not very happy with my decision so I did it while he was not home. AND I didn't make him help me at all.

The biggest problem with the closet was the shelves/hangings that were already in there. Mr. K was very adamant that I did not remove them. So I had to work around them. For this reason, I choose to do uneven stripes in the closet. They are all different sizes...although I'm not sure you can tell it.

I started with a blank canvas and measured the wall - floor to ceiling. Then I just started to divide it up into different sizes and hoped that they added up to that height. I made it so they did. Then I marked the wall and put the painter's tape up.

I marked the ones that would be staying white with little pieces of tape so that I didn't paint there!

Here's what it looked like once I had all the tape up.

Then it was time to paint!

I did the same color as the walls in the bedroom and white stripes.

I never thought I'd really tackle a project where I striped the walls, but it really wasn't that bad! The hard part was making sure the lines were straight and taping everything off! That was a pain. But once I got to the painting it was super easy.

There are a few places that need some touch ups, but overall I'm super excited for this space!

I know it is just a closet, but just wait!

Lining Dresser Drawers

2012-02-07T06:35:00.000-05:00

I felt like our dresser nursery needed something else...

It was white, but I felt like the drawers need something...

So I decided to line them.

I started with the bottom of the drawer like this.

Then I found different scrapbook papers that I liked and cut them to fit the size of the bottom of the drawers. In this situation, I used 3 pages of scrapbook paper. I had to cut them into different sizes of rectangles that worked together and ended up lining the entire drawer.

Once the pieces were cut, I coated the bottom of the drawer with modge podge. Once it was coated edge to edge, I placed the papers down over the wet modge podge. Make sure to push out the air bubbles as best as you can. This can be hard and mine definitely has a few wrinkles, but I used a flat edge to push them out as well as I could. I let this sit for 24 hours.

Then I repeated the modge podge step over the newly lined drawers.

And Voila! Lined drawers that coordinate with the room! Love them!

And it was so easy!

Just gives a plain jane dresser (or great craiglist deal in this case) a little sass!

A Visit From Mr. Stork

2012-02-06T06:35:00.000-05:00

You may have noticed my absence over the last week...

Well, we had a couple of things going on...

We welcomed our first baby girl on Wednesday morning.

Ella Maeve was born on February 1st at 9:51 in the morning.

I was going to be induced around 5:30am on the 1st anyways, but little miss decided to start the process of her arrival a little bit sooner. We went to the hospital Tuesday night when Mr. K forced me to go... I waited as long as I could - did some laundry, made some muffins, cleaned up all the rooms in the house and took the dogs on a walk. But after my contractions had started to get worse, he basically had to put me in the car. I was sure that we would be sent home.

Nope... they admitted us and by 10 am the next morning, we had become a family.

I'm in love with my little girl and so is Mr. K.

We are all happy and healthy and loving life!

What a great way to kick off (even if it's a little late) the new year!

The Big Game!

2012-01-31T06:35:00.000-05:00

So I'm totally bummed that I am unable to attend the Superbowl Festivities here in Indianapolis. I feel bad because my husband is itching to go (he says he isn't but I know he is) but he won't because he's waiting for me to pop!

But there are some great things going on down there! I am living vicariously through other people.

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First - The Superbowl Village

I love that we have what they like to call "Hoosier Hospitality." This is the closest that the Superbowl has been to us since Detroit. Apparently that's the closest it's ever been! So how cool is it that it's in my hometown!?!? And let me tell you, the preparations were taken to make this a memorable experience for all those who live in the city of Indianapolis and all the visitors!

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We have a zip line like they had at the Vancouver Olympics - and it's actually run through the same company. Mr. K just came home from his hockey game the other day with a ticket for the zip line so he better get down there sooner or later! He was also advised to take the Flip when he goes... as it will be a once in a lifetime thing and why not record yourself zipping down Capital Avenue in the middle of the winter?!? On a side note, it is the perfect week to go as it will be 50 degrees here Monday through Thursday. Can you believe that?!?

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Check out the Superbowl Roman Numerals located on Monument Circle in the heart of Indianapolis. I have seen multiple pictures of them at this point and they are awesome! I want to get a picture in front of them... can someone show me how to photo shop?!?!

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Second - The NFL Experience

For only $25, you can stay as long as you like all day! Due to the fact that there are interactive games, everyone must complete a waiver. There are participatory games, entertainment attractions, kids football clinics, free autograph sessions, and the largest football memorabilia show ever!!! It's located at the 500,000 square-foot Indiana Convention Center!

Attractions:

Free autograph sessions with NFL superstars
Kids, learn the skills of the game in the Play 60 Youth Football Clinics. Get in line early. First come, first served basis.
Visit the NFL SHOP for official Super Bowl XLVI merchandise
See the Vince Lombardi Trophy up close
Visit the NFL Rush Zone for scaled down versions of the adult games

Third - Combining our Indy Cars with the Superbowl

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They will be moved to locations around the city that were just recently announced!

And lastly the CELEBRITIES all around town!

I've heard that Kim Kardashian has been seen roaming the streets of downtown. And this is my absolute most favorite new Superbowl picture of 2012 (so far)

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And with that, I leave you...
Make sure to check out all the great things going on here in Indy if you are around and also keep up with us on the web if you aren't!

And Go Giants - I'll root for a Manning since ours isn't there!

Nursery Closet Dividers

2012-01-30T06:35:00.000-05:00

Good Monday Morning to you all out there! I hope my fellow blog hogs had a great weekend! I did... It was filled with tons of nothingness really, but I did manage to finish up a few projects that have been lingering...

No, no baby yet.

Still waiting on that one...

She's got her own timeline in mind apparently.

We shall see...

Any who... I was told by a friend that the best thing her sister did when she was pregnant was invest in closet dividers. I hadn't really thought of it before she said something as I figured I would just arrange them in order. But after doing a little laundry and hanging the clothes in the closet, I did decide to go ahead and give them a shot!

So I went to The Container Store and purchased 5 closet dividers for .99 cents! Cheapo Cheapo! Gotta love that! Then I took them and traced them onto the remaining scrapbook paper I had leftover from the drawers of the dresser.

*Did I ever share that project with you? Can't remember... will check and if not share this week!*

Then I cut out the tracings to fit onto the dividers.

Then I hot glued the paper to the dividers and was left with these below! Too easy!

So here they are... but they still needed to be labeled otherwise they wouldn't really serve a purpose.

So I found white sparkly scrapbook letters/numbers to stick to the tops of them. I probably could have used Puffy Paint or something, but I figured this would be just as easy, and ready quicker. Haha.

And here's what I ended up with! I think I kind of love them.

Not only does it help separate the clothing size wise, I assume it will also help with knowing what can be sold to the children's resale, what can be packed and what is still available for wearing!
Did you utilize anything like this for your kids rooms?!

Thrifty Thursday { Nursery Art on the Cheap }

2012-01-26T06:35:00.000-05:00

As I finished up the nursery this week, I was thinking it needed something on this one wall where I had hung the hooks I found at Urban Outfitters in Memphis.

I had a huge mason jar of buttons that my mom used for one of the games at my baby shower and I'd been meaning to do something with them, but I wasn't sure what. I initially thought about doing the letter of Baby Girl's name, but since we still haven't decided on a name yet that couldn't get done. So I just kept thinking about what I had and what I could do...

I found an old 8x10 canvas and painted it teal.

Then I grabbed the buttons...

And sorted through them to find the ones that coordinated with the room...

And then I went to town with my new best friend - the glue gun - and came up with this!!!

And here it is on the wall...

So total cost for this project was $0!!! I had everything already!!!

Then I felt that the wall behind the rocker felt a little boring and bland because it didn't have anything on it. My mom commented that I did a lot of art in there, but I want the babe to be interested and have things to look at and ponder!

I found these printables on Sprik Space. I saved them and printed them out on card stock.

They only cost me the price of the frames at $5 each from TJ Maxx Home Goods. I love them! Love Love Love!

And here they are on the wall behind the chair!

And lastly, you may be wondering about that picture above the Mockingbird print. Again, FREE, just the cost of the $4 frame.

I used some remnants of scrapbook paper that I had used to line the drawers on the dresser to make up the background of this piece. The diaper is actually an invite to the first baby shower that Mr. K's Mom and Aunt threw. I think it's a cute touch to the room.

I've tried to incorporate all things that mean something. Well, I've just tried to incorporate what I already had at home or were mine as a child or are from people who love Mr. K and I.

Just really excited that I could complete the room, keep it classy, and keep the cost down! 3 projects all for under $15! Jack to the Pot! Jackpot!

*- Linking up a couple of places today -*

Once Upon a Time

2012-01-25T08:52:00.004-05:00

What's my new obsession with Fairy Tales? Is it the baby?

I don't know... but have you guys been watching this show?!

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I am going to be honest here. I started watching Once Upon a Time on ABC for one reason - Ginnifer Goodwin was a part of the cast. And since I can't get anymore of her through Big Love, I needed a new fix! I have a girl crush on her... not sure why, but I do. I just love her. I love everything she does. She's so versatile and lovely.

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The show is about Emma Swan who is 28 and a bail bondsman. She's lived a rough life and been taking care of herself she since she was abandoned as a baby. Then one day, Henry - the son she gave up for adoption 10 years prior - finds her. He's desperate for Emma's help and believes her to be the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming. He believes that Storybrooke, the sleepy New England town he calls home, is really a part of a curse cast by the Evil Queen that has frozen fairytale characters in the modern real world leaving them no memory of their former fairytale selves.

We all know I already heart Ginnifer Goodwin, but the cast really is a great ensemble! There are so many great people associated with this show...

Below you have:

John Doe/Prince Charming played by Josh Dallas - I'm partial because he's an Indiana native. ;)

Mary Margaret/Snow White played by Ginnifer Goodwin

Emma Swan played by Jennifer Morrison

Sherrif Graham played by Jamie Dornan - SPOILER ALERT - he's now dead :( Woamp Woamp.

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But on last week's episode, we were introduced to a new HOTTIE, I mean Character - The Stranger - played by Eion Bailey.

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And here's another one for just some more eye candy - Maybe he should have been Prince Charming?!?

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Anyways, I digress... so now we have all these crazy questions like "Who is the Stranger?" He tells us he's a writer and finds inspiration in Storybrooke, but seriously, Who is he? I mean, really... I'd like to know.

The series is from the creators of LOST so I figure that I'll have more questions before I get any answers, but I'm intrigued by the show and so far while the questions are piling up, they aren't bothering me that much yet. I do think that sometime soon they'll need to give us just a couple of answers or clear a few things up...

Until then, I'll keep watching on Sunday nights.
Anyone else obsessed?

Wal-Mart Sectional Options

2012-01-24T07:30:00.001-05:00

So I've shown you my loft recently... it's a hot mess.
A hot mess of un-coordinating pieces that don't match look good or really even fit the space...

In it's defense, this was prior to painting. It looks a lot different now.
I need to actually update my photo of the loft!

Yep, a hot mess.

So, I've been looking (and secretly saving) up for at least a new sofa up there as we currently have a sofa that looks like a futon but isn't...

Mr. K doesn't know about my secret stash so lets keep that between you and me. And I am holding off for a little while longer to see how much little Baby Kake's costs me... because this secret stash might have to go to her!

But I've been seeking out "smart" solutions. I need something under $600 because I'm cheap. I've been scouring Craigslist like a crazy person hoping that I'll find a gem for about $300-$400 again, because I'm cheap, but so far no luck.

So... remember when Nate Berkus did that Living Room Make-Over with Oprah all by using items found on Wal-Mart.com? Ok, me either really because at that point I wasn't really into Oprah... it was more Dawson's Creek and Real World and if you want me to compare talk shows it was Rosie O'Donnell Show all the way over Oprah. But I do remember hearing my mom talk about it and how she couldn't believe how it turned out! She was so impressed that Wal-Mart.com had all these options!!!

He took this:

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To this:

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Not really my style, but they've come a long way since then - I believe this was in 2006. So... naturally when I started looking for sectionals, Wal-Mart never crossed my mind. Hah!

But, they do have these two that I'm seriously considering...

The first one is BHG Slip Cover chaise Sectional in Chocolate. First, I love the look. It's exactly what I'm looking for. Shape, Size, Color, and Price! Check, Check, Check, and Check!

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It is $599 though and that's not including shipping. Kind of a bummer when I'm going to be missing my supplemental income for at least a month here with the babe. Which is why I'm trying to watch my pennies...

Then there's this one:

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Another great option at $399, but again without the cost of shipping. Actually this one could be without the cost of shipping because it will ship Site to Store - a feature I love about Wal-Mart. However, there are some cons to this bad boy. Sure, the price is a true pro, but I feel like this one doesn't look as comfortable nor does it look as well constructed as the other. It looks cheaper. There, I said it. It does though and probably because it is. But, beggars can't be choosers... although I think you get a lot more for your money with option #1.

So, I continue on my quest to finish up my loft. I'm going to try to keep the Sectional as the only expensive piece in there. We'll see how that goes... Maybe if I wait long enough, Craigslist will pull through.

And on a side note... Nursery is DONE!!! Look for the reveal later this week.

Mood Board Monday { Blue Gray Bathroom }

2012-01-23T09:41:00.003-05:00

Good Monday Morning Blog Hogs! I hope you had a lovely weekend! I'm back at work for my last week and hoping to make it! We'll see how all that goes...

Anyways, it's been a few weeks since I shared a mood board and I thought that would be a good way to start out the week. I am thinking about semi-redecorating my downstairs hall bath while I'm off with the baby and was looking for ideas... While this one is not a hall bath, nor exactly what I'm looking for, it's the color scheme I'd like to try for.

My walls in the bathroom are already that color. The only thing is that it's about 1/4 the size of what this bathroom would be. I'm looking more for maybe a stencil and some art at the moment - and changing the color of the towels and accessories. But I do love this bathroom above.

I love that light fixture. How Gorgeous?! Love Love Love! And those furniture pieces... I die.

I am also in love with the two prints that I selected above. The bird print is from Urban Outfitters and only $49 and the Life is Beauty Full is on wood and $29 from Home Decorators. I don't shop at either of these places much, but they do have some great deals!

The shower curtain is the Roma Shower Curtain also from Home Decorators. I thought it just had a nice pattern that would compliment the colors and fixtures chosen.

Now for my bathroom...
I think I need a Stencil like this from Royal Design Studios - And if I get one, I'll make sure to use a coupon or discount code!

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Some neat hardware and accessories like these shelves...

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And maybe some black and white pictures to hang on the wall... I already have a few... but these would be nice from etsy.

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Hmmm... how to proceed?

Happy Monday!

Cute As a Button Baby Shower

2012-01-20T15:43:00.002-05:00

My mom, sister, and her friend threw me a baby shower at the beginning of the month! We had to work around my sister's schedule as far as timing went because she's in school in Memphis.

The theme was "Cute As A Button" and here are some pictures from the day!

My mom made this sign from scrapbook paper and actually found that button at Meijer. It's in the nursery now.

Here was the table - set with gifts, a few little pictures my mom put together and the thank you bags filled with cookies that my mom made.

She makes these with just scrapbook supplies and they are cute. Both of these are in the nursery now too.

Here's the invitation we made. She glued the buttons on before she sent them. We just uploaded the design to Vista Print and we had invitations for less than $20.

This is the dessert table. Mom made the strawberry cake from scratch and my sister made the cake balls. I love how she decorated everything with the button theme.

The snacks for everyone... She made the cake stands from some old candle holders she had and some platters she found at Dollar General.

The fruit cups which she found at JoAnn Fabrics and then added the buttons to the front just for a bit more fun.

Our little thank you bags had button butter cookies in them.

The mason jars for drinks was my sister's idea and then my mom decided to use twine and buttons to give them a little more flair. Love them.

The diaper cake that my cousin Sarah made for me in the colors of the nursery.

Libby and Emily

My cousin Lanah and I

My sister and I

The entire group in the living room at my parent's house while I was opening gifts.

This picture cracks me up because they all have their legs crossed the same way and hands on their knees. Love it!

Three and a half generations picture.
From left: me, Grandma Gallops, my mom, and my sister

Another one for good measure and because we kept messing them up.

And my dad playing around thinking he is as cute as a button once everyone had left. Dorkus!

Thanks to everyone who came to the party and to my mom, Anne, and Lib for making it As Cute As A Button! I enjoyed every bit of it!!! I love when my family gets together for "parties." We always have such a great time!!!

Happy Weekend... we are waiting on some snow!

Thrifty Thursday { Textured Vases }

2012-01-19T06:32:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I did a Thrifty Thursday. I need to get back into it! These are always fun.

I was super inspired by Living Savvy's No Spend Challenge she completed the other day!
You can check it out here.

Basically, she took vases that she already had at home and took them from plain jane to fabulous all with just a little glue! Look!

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So I decided to give this one a try. Since I have nothing to do after work now for the next couple of weeks or until the baby comes, I thought why not try something that I should have at home all ready to go!

I did decide to run into goodwill to see if they had any cute, plain vases to use, but the glue gun was at home. Found these....

So, here's what I came up with...

I got really tired and unmotivated so I didn't finish the second. Ooops! Plus, I was a little disappointed in how they were turning out. I think it might be time for a new glue gun. I was getting frustrated with mine because it seemed to not be getting hot enough!

You can see that I started to attempt the other one, but 9 months pregnant and trying to find a comfortable place to craft while sitting wasn't working in my favor!!!

I got bored, tired, and super uncomfortable really quickly.

But I do really love the first. It's got a unique look to it. I'm sure I'll find a home for it soon!

Linking up over at Somewhat Simple today!!!

Our { New } Hall Wall

2012-01-18T10:37:00.003-05:00

I always thought when I was younger that I'd have pictures hanging up all over my house. My family didn't really hang that many pictures. My mom (no offense mom) was very fickle about what went on the walls and where and how they were hung etc.

But for the last couple of Christmases I was asking for black picture frames. I received 2-3 sets of 10 and then we randomly collected other black frames during that time as well. And in the de-cluttering process, I decided it was time to hang them up!

Here they are after they made their way out of "storage" into the hallway for placement. Make way for baby changes are going on all over! And it does actually feel good to be getting everything (kind of) in order.

And here they are up on the wall. There are a few "blank" spots that I'm hoping to fill in like on the far left. But other than that, I'm very happy with how it all turned out. They are just the right pop of color on the barely there wall color. And the pictures inside of them will most likely be changed out. Getting them off the floor was the first feat.

Last night I actually replaced all the pictures that were not pictures but what the frames came with when purchased. I scoured through some old pictures of Mr K and I and found some interesting ones as well as some others from our wedding. I'm sure that those will soon be changed out to include Baby Girl.
I like the change. And don't worry, that $10 picture ledge will be finding a new home in the guest room which will soon be revealed as well! Lot's going on at The Kellermeyers!

The Rocker Redone

2012-01-17T06:57:00.002-05:00

Well, things are slowly but surely coming together.
I've been spending every waking minute getting my house in order... and I still can't find stuff! Can you believe it?! I can. And you would if you saw our guest bedroom closet! HA!

Anyways, remember the chair that I found on Craigslist for $30? The rocker for the nursery?

Well, it's finished!
We actually got it back right after Christmas, but there has been so much going on that I haven't been able to post about it! But now is the time...

So... here she is!

The cushion was a bit squishy and the upholsterer I found to do the chair did not redo or reinforce pillow seats so she suggested to make it all one section in the middle there - an irremovable seat. And I agreed knowing nothing. It also saved us on fabric because the estimate she gave me through pictures was going to be cutting it close once she saw the chair. Oops! Oh well, I'm very happy with how it all turned out.

Mr. K sanded and stained the rockers to match the bottom of the crib for me and they turned out pretty well. For some reason, once sanded, the stain didn't take as much in some areas as others. Luckily you can only see the fronts and they look pretty good.

Here's the whole corner set up. The chair is a bit big and bulky, but it's comfy and will serve the purpose.

And the fabric is Covington Belami Jacquard Sterling that I ordered on Fabric.com - one of my new favorite websites... why, I don't know because I don't sew... but it is!

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Which I realized is a party of the Glenna Jean Grayson bedding set while I was walking through Buy Buy Baby this week.

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So the breakdown goes as follows:

Chair from Craigslist - $30

Fabric - $95

Upholstery - $175

Total - $300

If I had to do it all over again, I would probably just save up the extra $300 and get the chair that I really wanted - or settle for a different chair - but All in all, I think that we made a good decision and the chair will work well for years to come!

Linking up with House of Grace's Twice Owned Tuesday Party

And Home Stories A to Z's Tips and Tutorials Link Party

And on Somewhat Simple!

I RESOLVE 2012

2012-01-12T06:48:00.000-05:00

Read more books -

Already starting this one on the right foot! I've been reading The Help and attempting to read it nightly. It's a long book, but I'm sure I can get through it. Then I have The Hunger Games on my To Read list as well as some home decor books. I always start out right with this goal and it fails as the year gets busier and busier. I just need to make sure to make time. And find GOOD books. Any suggestions?

Go to gym religiously -

By religiously, I mean 3-4x a week. I think that is doable. I hope it is. This baby weight is going to have to come off ASAP! Someone at work told me that I should make a new years resolution to lose weight because once Baby Girl comes, that will be a check! haha... I laughed. I think the gym should still be involved.

Go to church -
Mr K and I are not that religious. We both grew up Catholic, went to church, went to Catholic schools and then stopped going to church. With the baby, we'll need to start going again, but finding a church that you like and that you don't feel like they are shoving God down your throat is hard. I'm hoping we'll be able to find one to work for us.

Pay Off Debt & SAVE SAVE SAVE -
Enough said? I'm thinking about trying the Dave Ramsey system. I was reading over at Thrifty Decor Chick (who I occasionally run into at Goodwill's around town - she has no idea who I am) that they paid off some crazy amounts of debt! I'd love to do that. I can be poor for a while, right?!? I can be poor now to be secure later right? I think yes.

Blog Monday through Friday -
Goal - To give you GOOD posts Monday through Friday. I'm sure this year will be filled with many baby posts and I'd like to offer a DIY of some sort once a week. I'll have to get my creative juices flowing for this one. There are so many things to do around my house though that I don't see it being a problem.

Use more coupons -
This is starting ASAP. I need to do better with our money. Coupons to me need planning so I'm going to try to get organized and set up a time on the weekends whether it be Sunday a week prior or Sunday for that week to get to clipping and planning the weeks foodies.

Keep house cleaned up -
Mr K and I are those people who let clutter hang around until someone tells us they are stopping by. Oops! I've been working on this lately. It's a part of the nesting thing I'm told. But our house has to be more organized and cleaner! I was working on using a cleaning calendar I found on the blogosphere, but I might have to start in Feb.

Mike New Car -
I'd love sometime this year for Mr. K to get a new car. His car will be paid off come March and we'll need something dependable that's not going to continue to cost me a fortune. And with Baby Girl arriving soon, I want her to be in something safe. Problem is that Mr. K LOVES his car (minus the troubles it gives us on occasion) and he thinks it's completely safe. This will be a hard sell because we could use the money to pay down some debt as is a goal from above.

12 in 12 Family Pictures -
I got this idea from Rachel over at Running Backwards in High Heels. The idea is to take a family picture every month of the year! I love this idea... although it means that I'll probably have to take the time to make myself look presentable again! Ugh to that! And it probably means that our January picture will either be with baby or without baby and if it's with then our family photo for that month will be me in my pretty labor and delivery get-up! Oh well, everyone has that picture, right?!?

Oh yea, and we'll be having a baby! That's a big one, right? Probably should have added that one in... oh well, it's a given.

And please, hold me accountable! :)

2012 Home Goals

2012-01-11T09:56:00.003-05:00

Here is our home:

Here is what our home will be someday...

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Setting my sites too high?

Ok, maybe more like this then...

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Or, I could live in the house I used to live in... with a family as a nanny...

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Not turning that first home into these others, but more like moving there... or somewhere close to there within the next few years... maybe there will be another stepping stone house in the middle... we shall see... Anyways, I digress...

For now though, I have a few goals for my current home.

Taking the kitchen as it currently is from this...

To this...

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By changing the cabinet colors to white or gray and adding a banquette to the corner.

This was on my 2011 Home Goals, but we just got sidetracked apparently. We'll attempt again in 2012.

Taking my current living room from this:

To something ala this...

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By possibly getting hardwood floors, adding new furniture, and redoing some of the furniture currently living in the living room.

Taking our loft as it is now from this:

I know, crazy mess - please don't judge!

To this...

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By adding some built-ins for storage and display.

By getting all new furniture as we don't have anything but hand-me-downs and furniture from our first "house" together... Long Story.

By actually decorating it!

Taking our Bedroom from this:

To this...

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Or this...

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By getting some grown up furniture to actually tie the look together.

By working on an actual color scheme and plan for in there.

Taking the outside of our home from drab (as is currently):

Wish I had a non-snowy picture!

To fab...

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Our yard really only goes about 13 feet from the side of our house. We have a side yard. I'd like to do something like that above for the side yard area.

Front yard something like this:

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By updating the landscaping and redoing the brick planter

Adding a fence

Adding a patio to drink my Saturday and Sunday morning coffee on during the spring, summer, and fall (and heck winter at this point)

Wow... am I taking on too much?

I'll just keep telling myself

One thing at a time...

And that's how it'll have to be!

And I'll be linking up with The Nesting Place on her Home Goals Link Party!

Our Spring Line is HERE!!!

2012-01-10T06:49:00.000-05:00

It's here!!!

And it's GORG!!!

The fashion show was LIVE in Dallas on Sunday night and if you missed it, you can watch it here.

But below are some of my faves from this new line!

I am in love with the Sidewinder Series seen below!

There's something about those cute little snakes that I just adore!

And these are all at GREAT price points!

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And a few statement pieces for your viewing pleasure!!!

The Bianca can be worn at different lenghts! Love!

The Alexandria is just GORG and would look great over Navy, Black, or Coral - all hot for this spring!

The Zoe is a perfect lariat to compliment any ones jewelry collection! And it's a mix of gold and silver! Sold!

And the Serenity is just that - Serene with it's gorgeous stones and colors - It's one you're sure to love!

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I'd love to hear your feedback on the new line!

I'm getting ready to go on Maternity Leave so I probably won't be doing that much selling for the next few months, but I wanted to share it with you all!

It's something too good to not share with your girlfriends!

There's also still through the end of January a Sign On Special!

And also Hostess Bonus Days!

If you are interested in doing either of these, please contact me through email!

I'd love to help you start your own business!

Stella and Dot has been a life-saver for me!

It's gotten us through some tough times here at the Kellermeyer household and without my earnings from Stella and Dot, we might not have made it! We recently went completely down to almost one income from two and this was our Saving Grace - It could be yours too! Or, just your fun money! Either way, it's a great company to work for! :)

Monday's with Martha { Scrapbook Ideas }

2012-01-09T06:34:00.000-05:00

With the little one on her way... hopefully not tonight with the full moon... I'm brushing up on my scrap booking skills with a little help from my friend Martha.

I used to scrapbook all the time. I have about 10 at home. They range from things like my skating show, to skating through the years, to high school, to Mr. K and myself. But for the babe, I want to make sure I include just about everything! I've saved cards, bags, game pieces, accessories - you name it, I have it from the last 9 months and I'm ready to get going on this major task once Baby K gets here!

Here are just a few ideas from the real Miss Martha:

I'm loving this one for when the baby girl gets older. I wonder how long I'll be able to keep this up? Hmmm... I was thinking one for every year... we shall see...

Love this idea! It's like a scrapbook inside a scrapbook! I was thinking maybe baby nurses pictures... Who knows what I'll do?!? But I do love it!

Love. Love. Love.

This could totally be attached inside a scrapbook and still be able to flip through all the pages.

I can't wait to start on this project! It's been so long since I scrap booked!

This might be a neat idea to use with all the pictures that I don't really like or don't really have room for?!? Might be neat to use with all the non-used daily, weekly, monthly photos taken!

I just like the looks of these corners. They really are too cute and I like how they are all different.

But using corners gives such a clean, crisp look to the pages without ruining the pictures.

Family Tree - A total must for this baby book.

And just a really sweet photo page of the babe sleeping. I love the sheep and the ribbon. Too sweet.

And in case you wanted to do a little more DIY to your scrapbook than usual, Martha also offers cover templates, iron ons, clip art, and cut outs!

Here are a few of my faves:

- These are iron on transfers that look to be screen printed! -

- Print out photo borders -

- I'm sure I'll be using the baby clip art! These look like Darcy Miller's scrapbook pictures! -

Just a few things for me to start looking into! Once I finally get all my baby stuff in order, I'll have to start getting my scrap booking stuff in order! Oh Baby! Oh scrapbooks! Oh Baby!

Happy Monday!

{ all images via marthastewart.com }

Nursery Progress - DIY Mobile { Part Three }

2012-01-06T06:30:00.000-05:00

Well, it's official...
I'm done with the mobile, it's hung, and I'm satisfied.

It only took us like 3 months to get it that way!

I felt like the biggest dummy while working on this because we could not figure out how to hang this bad boy (1) at the desired height and (2) level! It was like we needed a "Dummies Guide to Hanging a Handmade Mobile. Seriously. No joke on this one. It was a process. A long process which included the occasional yelling at each other... Oh yea, home projects and work around the house causes the most yelling! HAHA... that and driving in Chicago.
First we thought we'd hang it over the crib as is the case in most nurseries... and we liked that idea. Then the more time it took to hang it and the more difficulty we had with the fishing wire to hang it, we decided that might not be a good spot for it. I mean, what if it fell in the crib?! Mr. K was sure this was going to happen and then was sure that if it did, our baby would be stuck in a fishing wire mess and something bad was going to happen...

So we decided to try another spot.
The final spot.

While I went and returned some holiday gifts this past weekend, Mr. K decided he'd work on this project for the last time. While he hung it too low initially, he did hang it. And it looks pretty good. See....

What do you think?

Now, all we need is some sort of mirror. I'm really wanting to use my Great Grandmother's that I have in the garage, but it's soooo old and it's SOOOO heavy that I'm not sure it will work. Hmmm....

I was also hoping to possibly find one like John and Sherry did for their nursery at Marshalls and then just paint it... Hmmm....

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Then I think we are about finished...

But at least you can be done hearing about this darn mobile for now! It did take us forever to finish, but we did it and before Baby K's arrival!

Sharing this on Whipperberry

The Shabby Nest

Our Loft { Now and Then }

2012-01-05T06:30:00.000-05:00

There have been a few changes made around here lately... especially this past weekend!

I had a complete 4 days off of work and I wasn't going to not utilize every stinkin' minute of them. We had a to do list and we accomplished just about everything on it! It included finishing painting our house and making preparations for baby's arrival. We are down to 30 days and our house is now officially completely painted (on the inside minus closets).

In order to make room for the nursery, we had moved our office out into our loft. I wasn't a big fan because it felt so full and crowded. Plus, we'd found some bookcases a while back on craigslist and they ended up being very unstable. So, with the baby on her way, I felt like we needed to get rid of those as they were sure to fall on Baby K at some point. You may remember my discussion with Santa about them... They truly resembled the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Here's what became of the bookcase...

But we decided to paint the loft finally this weekend! We went to Lowe's and picked out a color.

I originally wanted to use the same color that I'd used in the guest bedroom, but it would be too dark as we only have one window in this room and not very much lighting - natural or artificial.

This is the disarray that became of the loft while painting...

Do not judge us based on this crazy clutter shown...

And the color we picked was what we thought was a tan... but ended up being more of a creamy color.

Here's the before:

And here's the finished product:

It's just an off white. It does look more warm than the harsh white even though you probably cannot tell the difference through the pictures, but if I could make Mr. K help me paint it again (which I can't) then I would choose something with a little more color.

It'll still work with my ideas for up there though...

As a part of my 2012 Home Goals, I'm including exclusively for the loft:

The purchase of a chocolate sectional - so if you know of one at a decent price, let a sista know!
built in Bookcases a la Ikea and a little Kellermeyer Love
new TV to probably mount on the wall
new coffee table

All of these can be just "new to me." I'm not above using used goods! I just want my space to feel homey and look pretty!

The closer I can get it to look like this:

The BETTER!!!

Nursery Art Wall

2012-01-04T06:35:00.000-05:00

The nursery is still in progress...

Yep, you read that right...

If I were to pop tomorrow, we still need the following:

Crib Mattress Pads

Crib Sheets

Changing Pad

Changing Pad Cover

Mirror

To Hang Mobile

To Finish Closet

I guess writing that down there, it's not too bad! I'm sure I'm missing items - things I won't know I need until I need them. I am having another shower, thrown by my mother, sister, and my mom's friend in about a week so maybe I'll get those things then.

But until then, things are starting to come together.

They are not quite close enough, but they are getting there.

The other night we hung some art on the wall over the bed.

I don't want to give it all away before the big reveal, but here's what I'm hoping it will really look like!

You may have noticed the two empty picture frames...

Some free printables, pictures found around the internet, and fabrics were used!

I love the pieces in the middle from Sycamore Street Press on Etsy!

12 Days of Christmas { We were spoiled on Christmas morning }

2012-01-03T06:35:00.000-05:00

Ummm.... please don't judge the crazy prego girl in this picture! I can't believe I'm even sharing this! I look like a whale!

But, here's Mr. K and I on Christmas morning 2011 in our traditional Holiday pajamas!

Every year we open gifts with my in-laws on Christmas Eve and we do the Christmas Day thing with my parents. This year was no different.

Opening gifts at The Kellermeyers was fun. We finished dinner with Mr. K's cousin, and grandparents and were all settled into our Jammers (as you can see from above).

So lets give a run down of our spoiledness at Christmas One:

Me:
Gift cards to Michaels, Banana Republic (for after the baby), and some cash.
A donut maker
Domino Decor Book
The Perfectly Imperfect Home Book

Mike:
Some items for his desk at work like a clock and Colt's notepad
Some golf balls
Some clothes

Oh, and an Ipad 2!

We usually finish unwrapping then move into the family room to watch A Christmas Story because Mr. K's dad always wants to watch it.
Then Christmas morning we wake up early and go to my house where everyone hangs out in their jammers until about 11 or 12. It's so mellow! This year I was really bad about taking pictures of everyone, but I was able to snap a few. Please don't judge the people in these pictures... they were either being silly or just remember we'd just woken up.

Our spoiledness at Christmas Two included:
Me:
Kate Spade Purse - Holla!
Black Sperry Flats
Amazing Grace items from Philosophy
A toaster!

Mr. K:
Banana Republic Sweater and Shirt
Notre Dame Hockey Jersey
Hartford Whalers Hat
Ipad Case

I'm sure I am forgetting things, but lets just say it was a stellar Christmas for Mr. K and I. We really made out. Even Baby K got me a gift and received some thing too!

Happy Belated Christmas!

Today Only - GMA DEAL

2011-12-29T11:13:00.004-05:00

Today only, get the Stella & Dot Awakening Charm Necklace for only $40

This is one of my favorite pieces! You can wear it with blacks, browns or neutrals and it works everytime! You can also double it up!

Shop it here:

And be sure to add a few other favorites to get the Toujours Bracelet for Free ($99 purchase required)

12 Days of Christmas { Holiday Photos }

2011-12-29T07:40:00.000-05:00

Holiday Photos from this year and years past...

2008:

* No Mike because he took the picture*

*Christmas morning at the Kellermeyer's*

2009:

*Christmas Pajamas*

*Christmas Evening*

2010:

*Christmas Pajamas by the fire*

*The Hake Girls*

2011:

*Christmas card attemped picture*

*Christmas Pajamas*

Recap of 2011 { 2nd Six Months }

2011-12-28T14:04:00.001-05:00

Round 2!

The second six months around here have been pretty hectic! Mr. K and I have both been working our bums off trying to figure out how to handle this entire pregnancy. I was sick from about May through September! And working and skating and all that jazz!

So here's a round-up of the second half of 2011!

July:

I went to San Francisco - my second trip to the West Coast - for Stella & Dot. It was a ton of fun and I got to meet and listen to so many inspiring women. Hoping to continue with this in 2012!

Mr. K and I celebrated our One Year Anniversary at another wedding. Kinda crazy that we spent the exact same weekend in Iowa celebrating with Kevin and Breigh!

I started to work on the gallery wall by pulling together lots of mismatched frames and inspiration!

August:

I continued to work on our gallery wall at the top of the stairs! I used paper to decide where to hang everything! It's finally up now and I think I can reveal it at some point... prego brain got the best of me on what I shared when finished and what I didn't.

I finished the bench for the end of our bed. I ordered some sassy fabric from Fabric.com and was on my way to this! And we love it!

I shared with you guys the big announcement that we were expecting!

September:

My mom made a new brooch bouquet for Sara and we attended her wedding in Chicago. I love this one as it looks like wild flowers picked from a field. It's completely different than mine.

I shared with you guys that we are expecting a little baby girl come January 2012! No names yet but you can see nursery/baby posts here.

I added art to the walls of my bedroom without breaking the bank by using free printables and frames found at goodwill!

I made my own version of the very trendy now ruler growth charts. I think it's really cute... but am now kind of at a loss as to where to place this bad boy!

And I found a rocker for the nursery for only $30 on craigslist! Jackpot!

The harder part was finding a reupholsterer!

October:

I had my first crazy pregnancy dream... yea, it was weird.

I attempted to dye lampshades with the tutorial that I found over at Little Green Notebook.

We officially turned the office into a nursery by starting the process and painting... No picture here.

We decorated for Halloween in Kellermeyer Fashion. Scared a few kiddos in the process with the Monster Box and Rodger! Hoping to add to our display in 2012!

We found the dresser for the nursery on Craigslist after searching EVERYWHERE! And by EVERYWHERE, I mean EVERYWHERE!

With the help of some cork squares, I organized my jewelry so that I could see it so that I could wear it! It has since fallen off the door so I need to rethink this one! The jewelry was too heavy...

I attempted to make a ghost for Halloween (although I'd call it a semi-fail) with guidance found at The Lettered Cottage. He was cute, but looked nothing like theirs!

November:

Went to Memphis to visit my sister and delivered some chairs to her for her patio. We originally went for her Senior night, but she was injured and is now going to do another year or half year. So I guess we'll be making one more trip to Memphis!

I had my first baby shower hosted by Mr. K's mom and aunt. Kind of a bummer because people are turds, but we had great time with who was there and I got a lot of cute things!

I started working on the mobile for the nursery. I saw the idea all over the Internet... apparently everyone has tried this.

I hosted Thanksgiving at my house for about 10 people. It was decided last minute that we would host a small dinner, that turned into a bigger dinner because Mr. K was supposed to have hockey the day after Thanksgiving and I had to work. It was good though... I tried a few new recipes!

December:

I continued to work on the mobile... what seems to be the never-ending project. Which still isn't done and I'm considering reworking it... Great...

I made my own version of the snow globes found at Anthropologie. They were a hit with everyone! And I love them especially!

And I hosted a Cookie Decorating party and started a 12 Days of Christmas (which I only completed 9 or 10 days) - maybe I'll finish those up this week!

So there you have it! There are only a handful of days left in December so I figured I could cut it off there! What was your favorite thing about 2011 or do you have a favorite post her or elsewhere?! Do share!

Nursery Dresser Reveal

2011-12-28T13:52:00.000-05:00

Since lately I've been told "I"ll do it" instead of me being the one saying that, I have missed out on a few "before" pictures. Like that of our dresser.

Remember this dresser we found on Craigslist?

Well, that's the only before picture I've got so it will have to do!

Mr. K used the new paint sprayer that I purchased to spray this bad boy down. To take it from yellow to crisp white so that it would better fit in the nursery. At one point, we had contemplated keeping it yellow as it's a super cute dresser as is, but once we got the yellow in the room we decided it had to be white.

Mr K painting a bed - to be revealed later...

Stealing the idea from a few other blogs of using the original hardware but just spray painting it, I went out on the search for the perfect shade of teal. It's actually a teal that I'm in love with! My sister brought it back with her from school last year and I've been holding on tight to the spray can since then! However, I was going to need more than that to do my projects for the nursery. So... I went to Home Depot to find my beloved color! Lagoon by Rustoleum. Teal, Turquoise, Lagoon...whatever you want to call it, it's the best color ever!

So here are the handles/hardware in the middle of the process... They needed two coats, but they are cute and were too good to not use! And look how cute they are teal!

So with the dresser being sprayed white and the hardware ready, it was time to assemble the drawers again and bring it up to the nursery.

And TaDa! I think I'm in love and am so happy with how it turned out!

Full frontal view! I'll be adding a changing pad and a basket to the top and possibly a mirror and the mobile over it.

The handles up close. Look at the details in them. I couldn't pass up using them!

And a final view... I'm super pleased with how this turned out!

Thanks Mr. K for taking charge on this one painting wise!

Next up with Lagoon, the mini rocker!

Linking up with Thrifty Decor Chick!

Starting the New year off with some new reveals!
Happy 2012 everyone!