Today Along The Journey....

Welcome 2012

2012-01-02T12:48:00.019-05:00

I am happy to be starting in a new year. For me it is a time to regroup, renew and reorganize. 2011 was a very busy year for our family and I felt like I didn’t have the time I wanted to spend on my blog. I began scripting a blog post many times and then scrapped for another time. This year with all the baggage that goes with finishing grad school out of the way, new grand magnificent safely here (and doing spectacularly), I have no excuses.

In the last post I mentioned a few projects were completed but because they were gifts, I had to wait until after the holidays to share. This is one of those projects. If you have ever re-upholstered furniture, you know where I’m going with this; reupholstery can take quite a bit of time.

The client did not want the wood repainted and after it was complete the color was perfect with her chosen fabric.

Before photos

Isn’t the detail of the woodwork lovely?

When I removed the double welting, I found hundreds (maybe thousands, I didn’t count) of upholstery tacks. This chair had 9 separate sections, each carefully tacked every 1/4 inch.
After I was about three quarters of the way finished removing the tacks, I learned of a very handy tool. For less than $5 I could have saved so much time and agony to my hands. Oh how I wish I’d had one in the beginning but, I have one for the next project for sure.

A few of the after photos.

The client was very, very happy with the finished project and I was as well. I learned a great many lessons with this project which will come in handy the next time. A few words of advice before saying yes to a job, ask to take a look under the hood (or in this case, under the top layer). You will have a much better idea of the time required. Double welt cord requires a lot of time to sew, so be sure to figure extra time if your project requires this type of cording.

Linking up to these parties:

Stay tuned.....

Project updates

2011-12-04T10:40:00.001-05:00

I’ve been crazy busy catching up on all the projects that have been on hold the last year. It’s been fun digging in and I’m making some serious head way.

This little crib was first on my list. It is from a family member but needed some updating. After a good sanding and scrub, I used ASCP Louis Blue on the head and foot board and then gave the entire crib another two coats of ASCP Old White followed by a coat of clear wax to protect it. Since it is only used for infants, there is no concern of “chewing” on the rails.

The before shots

The original mattress was feather and while it was cute, I decided a new piece of dense foam was in order. I made a fitted sheet from a softly worn, cozy Egyptian Cotton top sheet. A bed skirt was fashioned from a bolt of blue cotton that I had purchased some time ago and just new I’d find a use for it. I tried my hand at tie-dying on a light weight cotton cover. It’s been a long time since I did any tie dying but it brought back some great memories.

This is a very small crib. I laid a yardstick inside for some reference to the size. I’m very happy with the results and hope lots of grand magnificents get to nap in it over the years.

More updates on the way stay tuned…..

Time flys by

2011-11-20T14:59:00.001-05:00

And the days seem to meld into each other. I can’t believe it’s been over 2 months since I posted here. I apologize for the serious slacking but I promise I have tons of things to share with you.

For now here is a sneak peak of where my time has gone.

Here

And here

And most importantly here

I forgot how quickly babes grow and change.

Be back soon with final updates and pics.

Stay tuned…..

Favorite summer quick salad

2011-09-14T00:27:00.000-04:00

I have fresh basil galore right now so I’m cutting and drying most. What I don’t dry I use in our all time quick summer salad. It is simple, quick and goes with just about anything. (Disclaimer; cooking is not something I enjoy and I don’t think I’m all that good at it).
I do enjoy cooking when I know all our kids and the grand magnificents will be at the table than I really do enjoy the labor of it all. Other than that, cooking is just one of those things I do to keep us alive. On to the recipe.
3 main ingredients:
fresh tomatoes (garden raised are the best) thanks Daddy-O, sweet onion, and fresh basil.

I slice the tomatoes and dice the onions,

Wash, stack and slice the fresh basil…..yum.

Chop the basil (this is probably a culinary faux-pax)

Add a kosher salt, fresh ground pepper, garlic powder, balsamic vinegar and olive oil (didn’t make the photo shoot, oops)

Toss and savor the summer flavors!

One of the few things I’ll miss about the summer.

Stay tuned…..

A blessing for our family

2011-08-29T21:32:00.003-04:00

After a day like this……….

We cut our strings…….

After the arrival of our grandson ……..

Wyatt James
We are so very blessed

Hunkering down

2011-08-27T22:02:00.003-04:00

Irene is headed our way. We have water to drink, the bathtubs filled for whatever else, a generator for our sump pump just in case.

Candles, oil lamps and flashlights for during the night. Bring it on Irene we are ready. Hope all of you are warm, dry and safe this weekend.

Stay tuned…..

Dresser made into a changing table

2011-08-23T22:42:00.003-04:00

I’m so relieved and excited to have the dresser/changing table finished and delivered.

I’m apologizing first the photos are not the best, still using my iphone camera.
What started out as a paint and turn around quickly became a major overhaul which took weeks. This is the dresser before. Wasn’t crazy about the blue wood handles and the fact that the two lower drawers (sorry the top drawer and the bottom drawers in the photo are in the wrong slots)had one pull in the center of the drawer.

I removed the top rail on the dresser and reattached it around the front and sides to provide a stop for the changing pad.

LOTS of my favorite new go to glue.

I used Annie Sloan Old White over Louis Blue and clear wax. Only a bit of color was requested and I think just a hint of the blue worked well.

I painted the chrome inserts on the glass knobs, the chrome seemed harsh.

A little distressing and two coats of clear wax and wha-lah a changing table.

Here is a hint of what I’m working on next.

Stay tuned…..

Finished……(almost)

2011-08-13T11:48:00.001-04:00

It’s been some time (2 years) since we started our stairway/foyer project and I’m happy, so happy it is almost completed. Unfortunately I did not take photos before so I’ll sum it: full carpet stairs (what was I thinking), a cubbyhole door on the landing to a ~~storage~~ stuff everything and anything room. It was a 12 x 14 room with a sloped roof line that held a ton. Another cubbyhole door at the top of the stairs (no folks we do not have an attic thank goodness) which would constantly blow open and let hot or cold air billow down the stairs.

Now there is no longer a cubbyhole door on the landing YAHOO.
We closed off the storage completely which means we have less room to stuff things.

And at the top of the stair the cubbyhole door was replaced with a full sized door. Another YAHOO

All the wainscoting down the stairs is complete as well.

In the foyer the doors, baseboard trim, and door trim were replaced as well. We continued the Wainscoting throughout the foyer. It looks so fresh and clean and FINISHED.

Oh and I painted the front door too. Eventually would like to replace the steel door but that may be a deal breaker since hubs believes wood doors don’t seal well. (I may have to just settle on this one).

Then since we were working in the foyer, I decided to paint the powder room. (ok paint and bead board but it was a way to keep hubs on my team).

Before: plain off white walls, it has been a safe color for me all these years.

After: bead board walls and paint. Which turned into repainting it 3 times till I felt comfortable with the color. Man-O-man, without a window in this room the colors are so different. It’s hard to tell but this color is actually Gray Owl.

I’m happy with the calm, fresh look. I painted the bead board before installing it now I’m debating on whether to second coat it. Right now it looks similar to a whitewash.

Now for the almost part; the stair treads.

We can’t decide whether to stain again or paint. I’m wanting to paint but I can’t decide on a color. I know the paint will show the scratch and wear marks but I don’t mind. The original stain color was the color of the handrail (see above) and I didn’t like it. So I’m open to suggestions. Paint ? or stain? and what color?

One last note. A guest told us we installed our door levers upside down. Hmmmmm. I guess I like the end flowing up rather than down towards the floor. I’m different.. I’m just saying.
Off to work on another project.

Stay tuned…..

I don’t know how I missed it …..

2011-08-01T22:43:00.002-04:00

But….I did and I feel bad.
I didn’t post the addition of our first fir baby grand-dog. The picture I’m posting is old and he is 5 times the size now and still GROWING!!!!
Without further ado, Here is Duke…our English Mastiff grand-dog. He is enormous but a real lover.

I hope to have all 3 grand-dogs together again soon so I can take a group shot.

Stay tuned…..

Weekend away, ongoing renovations and a new fur baby

2011-07-21T14:26:00.002-04:00

The annual float trip was a much needed get away. We did have to bag the floating part of th trip as the river was even lower than this time last year and my knees and buttocks were extremely thankful. Next year’s trip will be earlier in the Spring when the water will be cold but the level will be higher and of course much more fun.
We slept in a tent this year complete with a high-rise air bed and A/C. Yes to all my die-hard camping family and friends, I confess I’m a camping wimp. I also know with 90 degree plus temperatures, 100% humidity and sleeping on the ground I would not have been able to function. This body needs some pampering I’m just saying.
A few pics from the tent. Oh yes, we had both dogs with us and this was their first tent experience. They did really well and having a 3 room tent, allowed them to have plenty of room to Lab-stretch out.

AND I broke down and bought a pair of the most comfortable yet unfashionable shoes I’ve ever owned. Yup I am now an official fan of Keens.

On to the on-going renovations. We are finishing the foyer, YAY! Here’s an in-progress photo.

And we have a new fur-baby grand daughter, Gracie.

In all her Chesapeake bay sweetness…..

The boys are happy to have another 4 legged playmate in the family and she is typical puppy go,go,go and then crash and burn.

Well painting, measuring and cutting are calling.

Stay tuned…..

A weekend away

2011-07-08T00:08:00.002-04:00

We are off for the 4th annual rafting, tubing, drag-your-butt down the river weekend. I was going to stay home and kick some of these overdue projects out of the way but I caved. I admit it, I saw that dangling carrot and I’m going for it.
The thought of my family away, camping, rafting, laughing till your sides hurt, late nights around the campfire telling stories, the smell of breakfast wafting through the tent walls did it. (Don’t get me wrong I will have a memory foam topped air mattress and A/C in my tent) but I still say it’s camping!

Here is last years photo from the cabin.

I’ve had some personal set backs recently (but that’s for another post) and as much as the house could use some TLC, I need some down time more.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Stay Tuned…..

A little project that gave me a big smile

2011-06-02T22:14:00.012-04:00

We have this little stool which unfortunately was very attractive to our dog as a puppy. Two of the corners were badly chewed and the top had lots of surface scratches.

I have wanted to give this little stool some First Aid for years but because of the destruction on the corners, I wasn't sure exactly what to do with it. Then one night it came to me, cut the corners off the stool.

I measured the corners, drew a diagonal and gave each a quick cut with the circular saw.

I used Annie Sloan chalk paint. I first learned of this wonderful paint from Miss Mustard Seed. This paint does not require sanding, priming, removal of paint or stripping of the finish....nothing. It adheres to practically any surface but I was Skeptical with a big S.

Well Miss Mustard Seed you were soooo right and this skeptic is now a Believer. 1 coat of paint, distressing and finished with dark wax. I did lightly sand over the scratches but didn't remove completely because they are part of the journey this little stool has had.
I wanted a less "re-finished look" and the distressing did the trick.
Waxing gave it a smooth as glass feel and I’m just tickled with the results.

I'm linking up to

Stay Tuned.....

Kick back

2011-05-28T11:56:00.001-04:00

Hope all of you are finding time to kick back and take a breather this weekend. I found this photo on tumbler and it just makes me chuckle. Happy Saturday.

A little of this and a little of that

2011-05-10T12:22:00.002-04:00

Hi there, it’s been awhile since I posted. I didn’t really feel I had anything to share with all of you and then as I was sorting through photos on my phone tonight I realized I actually have done some creating in the last few months. I apologize this is a mis-mosh of things.
Two precious babes joined our family recently, TWINS we are very, very blessed. They were a bit early, spent time in the hospital and poor mom and dad spent the time traveling back and forth but I am happy to report the two little bugs are home, catching up on loving from their big brother and mom and dad are no doubt catching up on some rest. (from driving that is)

Miss Lilly and Sir Elliot, just beautiful!

While we were awaiting their arrival I used some of my neat tie-dyed look flannel for some booties.

On a different note, I tore down the arbor at the pool gate which was in sad, sad shape.

Most of it was rotted and for the past two years I’ve crossed my fingers that it didn’t collapse. I drew plans from the old pieces, picked up lumber and hubs did the rest!!

Next I made an apron from an old pair of jeans

Surprised Bob and up-cycled her desk chair to match her room

Made a anthro-knock-off necklace

and a word book for a sweet young lady.

I have a few more projects that I’m slowly working on between studying.

What have you been up to????

Happy Easter

2011-04-20T09:24:00.000-04:00

Still here just trying to keep my head afloat, no worries it will all be good.
I know this has been around for years and yet it still makes me laugh.

Happy Easter

No time for projects

2011-03-25T16:17:00.003-04:00

But I did manage to get a few photos of that awesome moon this past weekend.Not the best photos for sure but it sure was fun trying different settings. The first one is actually an Uh-Oh moved the camera moment. The rest were taken from the tripod.

Stay Tuned.....

For Japan

2011-03-18T17:15:00.000-04:00

Go here to donate and participate.

I have Spring fever and it just might snow

2011-03-05T15:34:00.003-05:00

I have officially taken down the winter/valentine decorations and started to break out the spring décor.
For me that is a first (and probably the last) time I’ve had ANY decorations up more than the week before a holiday or season. I wouldn't be surprised if we end up with a blizzard tomorrow!!
Some decorations are old like the eggs (these are all real eggs that I store from year to year) 13 dozen and counting. Only one broke from last year.

And if you are wondering what to do with Wellies that no one wears any longer how about a holder for your (not yet blooming) forsythia?

What is your most unusual vase?

Stay tuned…..

I am pleased to introduce

2011-03-03T01:00:00.003-05:00

Meadow Muffin Gardens ~ A beautiful line of natural products with wonderful essential oils.

Stacy founder and owner of MMG, has a fabulous line of facial and body products to pamper and sooth as well as balms and salves for those times when your skin needs a little more TLC.

You can find Stacy’s Etsy shop @ Meadow Muffin Gardens and you can read more about her philosophy and skin care line on her blog. ~Enjoy~

Disclaimer: I have not received nor been offered any type of compensation from Meadow Muffin Gardens or their affiants. Stacy is a hometown (or should I say village) gal that has a lovely product line!

Happy Blogiversary and Birthday to……

2011-03-02T12:56:00.000-05:00

Drum roll……….

To celebrate HoH blogiversary, Allison from HoH is sponsoring a Silhouette give away complete with some great vinyl. Please head on over for your chance to win and if you are new to HoH stay awhile and check out some of Allison’s amazing tutorials.

Good Luck everyone!

And

In honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday, Wal-Mart is offering Dr. Seuss books for as low as $3 plus FREE shipping today, that’s right FREE SHIPPING. Hope you can score a few for your library.

Stay Tuned…..

Disclaimer: I have not received nor been offered any type of compensation from Wal-Mart-Mart, Dr. Seuss, or HoH or any of their affiliates for posting this content. It’s strictly cause I want to and cause Allison has so much to share!

My necklace found a mate

2011-03-01T11:53:00.002-05:00

As I was sipping my morning coffee and reading blogs I follow (oh the list is getting longer and longer), I was thrilled when I read about a talented photographer who will be sharing online tips for both DSLR and point and shoot users. I am holding out for my dream camera and in the meantime I'm determined to make the most of my current camera.
Stick with me here, do you remember this necklace I made a while back?

I was intrigued by the upcoming photography lessons so I hopped on over to her blog. I nearly choked on my cup jo when I saw these lovelies

Image credit

Wouldn’t they look great with my necklace?

Leilani Rogers of My Many Colored Days is the creator of these great earrings and she is also the photographer who will be offering the photography tips at Brown Paper Packages.

Head on over to both blogs, I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Stay Tuned…..

A piece of the past

2011-02-28T13:56:00.002-05:00

A few weeks back I was helping our mom in her attic. I came across this adorable suit which belonged to our Dad when he was a little tike. I don’t know which I’m more taken with; the simplicity of the structure or sweetness of the embroidery. These photos are definitely going into my inspiration file. Enjoy.

This is the back closure ~ simple two strap with button.

The collar detail

Cutest applique

Stay Tuned…..

last chance

2011-02-26T08:00:00.003-05:00

Today is the last day to enter the Silhouette give away over at my repurposed life. Hurry over for your chance to win, contest ends tonight 8pm EST. Good luck to all.

Stay Tuned…..

Love Eternal

2011-02-25T12:22:00.002-05:00

33 years ago today I said “I will” to my love. In the big scheme of things, we have had a fabulous 33 years together. Yes we have had our share of arguments, disagreements, sleepless nights, worried hours, “non-talking” days, sick kids, late payments, flooded basement, ranting binges, etc. But we have also had some of the best days anyone could ask for.

When we married some said it wouldn’t last that we were too young and would grow apart as we “grew up.” We had no idea whether any of that would be true all we knew was we loved each other and wanted to be together forever. I had spent time in the service living overseas and he had worked in his father’s business since high school. I think for the most part, we were old souls before our time; mentally more mature than our biological ages. We’ve always been the happiest when working on projects together. Minus the disagreements about the way I thought things should be done (there I’ve publicly admitted I have a few control issues) we work very well as a team. The older we become the more I find myself enjoying being home together, something I didn’t always look forward to. Now after 1/2 a lifetime together and raising a family I’d say we are like Jenny and Forrest ~ Peas and Carrots.

Incidentally, we met on a blind date on the 4th of July so we cheat and celebrate two times a year. Happy Anniversary Big G, I am blessed and I love you forever.

How did you meet your love?

Sterling Silver 16” necklace for $5.99

2011-02-22T13:03:00.000-05:00

Hurry over to Amazon.com for this incredible deal. $5.99 for a 16'” SS necklace and FREE shipping. Crazy and too good to be true but it is for real. I just purchased 2 and they are on their way. (the original add was 16 or 20 but I only noticed the 16” available). Either way it’s a steal
Run, I don’t think this will last long.

Right now on Amazon, you can purchase a Sterling Silver Box Style Necklace (16 or 20 inches) for only $5.99 plus FREE shipping! Regular price $59.99.

Stay tuned…..