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	<title>At The Picket Fence</title>
	
	<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com</link>
	<description>Two Homes * Two Sisters * One Blog</description>
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		<title>Hardwood Floor Hallway Makeover</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/wood-floor-landing-and-hallway-makeover.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/wood-floor-landing-and-hallway-makeover.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Vanessa</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Good Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hallway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hallway makeover]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[landing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wood floor landing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wood floors]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4974</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The first time I walked through the doors of our home I saw it. It was kinda hard to miss. Green carpet. Oh, sure, it wasn&#8217;t everywhere. There were hardwood floors in the kitchen and breakfast nook, slate in the entry and mudroom, neutral carpet in the family room and bedrooms. But everywhere else there [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood_floor_landing_and_hallway_makeover-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4989" alt="wood_floor_landing_and_hallway_makeover www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood_floor_landing_and_hallway_makeover-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>The first time I walked through the doors of our home I saw it. It was kinda hard to miss.</p>
<p>Green carpet. Oh, sure, it wasn&#8217;t everywhere. There were hardwood floors in the kitchen and breakfast nook, slate in the entry and mudroom, neutral carpet in the family room and bedrooms.</p>
<p>But everywhere else there was green carpet. Up the staircase which greets you from the front door and running down the upstairs hallway. In the office to the right of the entry and in the living room and dining room to the left.</p>
<p>Green carpet. It wasn&#8217;t the most offensive shade of green but it certainly wasn&#8217;t doing the house any favors!</p>
<p><span id="more-4974"></span></p>
<p>I didn&#8217;t hesitate for a second about buying this house because it ticked so many of the boxes and besides&#8230;I would be replacing that green carpet lickety split, right?</p>
<p>Fast forward almost 5 years and we finally replaced the carpet in the <a title="Living Room Makeover" href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?slide=living-room-makeover">living room</a>, <a title="Drop Cloth Chair Skirts" href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/how-to-make-drop-cloth-chair-skirts.html">dining room</a> and office. But, frankly I was stumped about the upstairs hallway. You see, the bedroom carpets were in really good shape and they were a nice neutral shade. We didn&#8217;t want to have to replace them but we also had to take into consideration the flooring in the other parts of the house. Slate in the entry (right below this hallway), hardwood floors in the kitchen and carpet in other rooms). That&#8217;s a lot of different things going on!</p>
<p>So, after hemming and hawing and pondering and questioning I FINALLY made a decision!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/hallway-before1-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4983" alt="hallway before1 atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/hallway-before1-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And the upstairs hallway got new hardwood floors!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em id="__mceDel"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood-floors-on-landing-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4988" alt="wood floors on landing atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood-floors-on-landing-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></em></p>
<p> Green carpet? What green carpet? It&#8217;s always looked like this, right?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood_floor_hallway-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4978" alt="wood_floor_hallway atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood_floor_hallway-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Now, I have to admit something. While I was writing this post I was thinking about how many people are going to tell me they don&#8217;t like my yellow walls. That yellow is &#8220;out&#8221;. So I hesitated.</p>
<p>I almost didn&#8217;t share this makeover.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/hallway-before3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4985" alt="hallway before3" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/hallway-before3.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">But, you know what? 5 years later I still love my yellow walls. I mean, come on people! I live in Oregon. I gotta get my &#8216;sunshine&#8217; one way or another, right?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/hall_table_with_lamp-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4975" alt="hall_table_with_lamp atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/hall_table_with_lamp-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And, are you ready for another confession? That lamp isn&#8217;t plugged in.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Because there is no outlet on that wall. But there SHOULD be one!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">So, I put a lamp there anyway. Just for looks.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/lamp-on-console-table-in-hallway-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4976" alt="lamp on console table in hallway www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/lamp-on-console-table-in-hallway-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And it is a looker of a lamp, isn&#8217;t it?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/books-in-tray-on-table-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4981" alt="books in tray on table atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/books-in-tray-on-table-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And, since I&#8217;m already confessing things I might as well fess up about my addiction to trays. I gravitate to them in a store like my son gravitates to <a title="Homemade Toaster Pastries and Precipices" href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/homemade-toaster-pastry.html">pie crust</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/basket_under_table-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4980" alt="basket_under_table www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/basket_under_table-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Oh and baskets&#8230;I&#8217;m kind of addicted to them too. This one perfectly softens up the hardwood and is filled with old quilts.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood_floor_landing_and_hallway_makeover-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4989" alt="wood_floor_landing_and_hallway_makeover www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood_floor_landing_and_hallway_makeover-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And yes&#8230;that is <em>another</em> basket in our master bedroom. It&#8217;s a problem. I know.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Thanks so much for meeting me at the Fence today!</p>
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		<title>Homemade Toaster Pastries and Precipices</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/homemade-toaster-pastry.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/homemade-toaster-pastry.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Vanessa</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Good Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade pop tarts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade toaster pastry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pop tarts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toaster pastry]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4941</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The other night I was finally getting around to folding the laundry that had been piled up on the love seat at the foot of my bed when it happened. I know I should have been more prepared for it. I mean, there had been warning signs leading up to this point but I must [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemad_toaster_pastry-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4942" alt="homemad_toaster_pastry www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemad_toaster_pastry-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="510" /></a></p>
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<p style="text-align: left;">The other night I was finally getting around to folding the laundry that had been piled up on the love seat at the foot of my bed when it happened.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I know I should have been more prepared for it. I mean, there had been warning signs leading up to this point but I must have ignored them.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I went to put my sons white socks in his pile and my white socks in my pile when I realized I had mixed them up.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Because they were so close to the same size.</p>
<p>When did this happen??? How did this happen??? It cannot be possible that my little boy has feet that are almost as big as mine and will very soon surpass mine in size.</p>
<p><span id="more-4941"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/rolling-out-pie-crust-atthepicketfence.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4945" alt="rolling out pie crust atthepicketfence" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/rolling-out-pie-crust-atthepicketfence.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Lately I&#8217;ve been feeling like I&#8217;m standing on a precipice. I know I can&#8217;t go back but I&#8217;m clinging to the last bits and pieces of this season in my life. Of little hands that still instinctively reach for mine when we&#8217;re crossing the street or just walking through the park. Of wooden puzzles and trains that rarely get played with anymore but I can&#8217;t bring myself to part with. Of a boy who will be 10 next week but still has a vivid imagination and even humors his sister by pretending to be her pet cheetah or various other animals. I sneak in at night and watch him sleeping and he looks like he did when he was four. He still has &#8216;Paco&#8217;, his trusted stuffed horse, nestled in with him and I wipe his hair off his forehead. And I pray for him.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Then I catch a whiff of that not-so-pleasant &#8220;boy&#8221; smell that seems to follow him everywhere these days no matter how often he showers and I&#8217;m reminded of that precipice.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> It&#8217;s not that I don&#8217;t totally and completely enjoy the moment&#8217;s of today and look forward to the moment&#8217;s of tomorrow!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">It&#8217;s just that I feel so intensely the proverbial finishing of one chapter of the book and beginning of the next.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/sliced-pie-crust-dough-atthepicketfence.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4946" alt="sliced pie crust dough atthepicketfence" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/sliced-pie-crust-dough-atthepicketfence.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Life is a series of precipices, isn&#8217;t it? And we arrive at the edge of each one knowing full well that there are more ahead.</p>
<p>So, I do those things that provide continuity. The things which seem to be invisible threads running between each precipice.</p>
<p>Things like baking.</p>
<p>And so I make my almost double-digit boy <strong>Homemade Toaster Pastries</strong>.</p>
<p>Because he loves pie crust and would frankly be happy with just a plate of pie crust with nothing on it or baked into it.</p>
<p>But, I thought he might like these too. Little rectangles of pie crust filled with strawberry jam. Others filled with Nuetella (those may or may not have been eaten in a matter of seconds!).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemade-toaster-pastry-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4944" alt="homemade toaster pastry www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemade-toaster-pastry-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>And topped with icing or powdered sugar. Or both.</p>
<p>He wanted both.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemade_toaster_pastries-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4943" alt="homemade_toaster_pastries atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemade_toaster_pastries-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p> As he sat at the counter eating the warm, fresh from the oven toaster pastry we talked and laughed and everything felt so much&#8230;the same. We&#8217;ve had this moment before, him sitting at the counter eating and chattering while I cleaned the kitchen.</p>
<p>And we&#8217;ll have it again.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemad_toaster_pastry-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4942" alt="homemad_toaster_pastry www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemad_toaster_pastry-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="510" /></a></p>
<p>And, maybe next time I&#8217;ll make his dreams come true and just give him a plate full of pie crust!</p>
<p>
    <div id="zlrecipe-container-15" class="zlrecipe-container-border" style="border: double;">
    <div itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Recipe" id="zlrecipe-container" class="serif zlrecipe">
      <div id="zlrecipe-innerdiv">
        <div class="item b-b"><div class="zlrecipe-print-link fl-r"><a class="butn-link" title="Print this recipe" href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="zlrPrint('zlrecipe-container-15'); return false">Print</a></div><div id="zlrecipe-title" itemprop="name" class="b-b h-1 strong" >Homemade Toaster Pastries</div>
      </div><div class="zlmeta zlclear">
      <div class="fl-l width-50"></div>
      <div class="fl-l width-50"></div>
      <div class="zlclear">
      </div>
    </div><div class="img-desc-wrap"><p class="t-a-c">
			  <img class="photo" itemprop="image" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/homemade_toaster_pastries-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" title="Homemade Toaster Pastries" alt="Homemade Toaster Pastries"  />
			</p></div><p id="zlrecipe-ingredients" class="h-4 strong">Ingredients</p><ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list"><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Refrigerated Pie Crusts (Store bought or homemade)
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Filling of your choice (I used both jam and Nuetella)
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"></li></ul><p id="zlrecipe-instructions" class="h-4 strong">Instructions</p><ul id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" class="instructions"><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Preheat oven to 375
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Roll out pie crust on floured surface.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Use sharp knife or pizza slicer to cut dough into appx. 8 rectangles.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Place 1 Tbsp. of filling on a rectangle and then top with another piece.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Repeat until you have 4 filled toaster pastries.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-5" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Press edges down to seal and then crimp with fork.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-6" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Prick tops of the crust with fork 3-4 times.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-7" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Back for 10-12 minutes.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-8" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-9" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Top with homemade icing or powdered sugar. 
</li></ul><div class="zl-linkback" style="display: none;">Schema/Recipe SEO Data Markup by <a title="ZipList Recipe Plugin" alt="ZipList Recipe Plugin" href="http://www.ziplist.com/recipe_plugin" target="_blank">ZipList Recipe Plugin</a></div><div class="ziplist-recipe-plugin" style="display: none;">2.2</div><a id="zl-printed-permalink" href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/homemade-toaster-pastry.html"title="Permalink to Recipe">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/homemade-toaster-pastry.html</a></div><div id="zl-printed-copyright-statement" itemprop="copyrightHolder">This recipe is copyrighted by At The Picket Fence</div></div>
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<p>Thanks so much for meeting me here At the Picket Fence today,</p>
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		<title>Can’t Sew? No worries! {No Sew Round Up}</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/no-sew-projects-round-up.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/no-sew-projects-round-up.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2013 15:59:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>At The Picket Fence</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DIY]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Round-Up]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tutorials]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[no sew]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sewing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4920</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; One of us can sew. The other can&#8217;t. We&#8217;ll let you try to figure out which is which. But whether you can sew or not, sometimes it&#8217;s just a drag to well drag out the sewing machine or needle and thread. Here are several fabulous No Sew Projects that will have you fooling everyone [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/12-Easy-No-Sew-Projects.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4933" style="border: 0px;" alt="12 Easy No Sew Projects" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/12-Easy-No-Sew-Projects.jpg" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>One of us can sew. The other can&#8217;t. We&#8217;ll let you try to figure out which is which.</p>
<p>But whether you can sew or not, sometimes it&#8217;s just a drag to well drag out the sewing machine or needle and thread.</p>
<p>Here are several fabulous <strong>No Sew Projects</strong> that will have you fooling everyone into believing you spend all day bent over a sewing machine!</p>
<p><span id="more-4920"></span></p>
<p><strong>We all love custom curtains! Here are several &#8220;no sew&#8221; options:</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/drop-cloth-no-sew-curtains.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4921" style="border: 0px;" alt="drop cloth no sew curtains" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/drop-cloth-no-sew-curtains.jpg" width="634" height="436" /></a></p>
<p><em>Vanessa</em> created these <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2012/05/drop-cloth-curtains-with-fabric-trim.html">&#8220;no sew&#8221; drop cloth curtains with fabric trim</a> for her family room!  Add fun trim in a variety of patterns and colors to create custom inexpensive curtains!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/diy-no-sew-cornice.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4922" style="border: 0px;" alt="diy no sew cornice boards" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/diy-no-sew-cornice.jpg" width="640" height="397" /></a></p>
<p>Cornices can be expensive and heavy! <em>Heather</em> created these <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2011/08/how-to-make-easy-diy-window-cornice.html" target="_blank">&#8220;no sew&#8221; diy cornices</a> out of foam board and tablecloths for her kitchen and bay window.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-diy-burlap-curtains-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4923" style="border: 0px;" alt="no-sew-diy-burlap-curtains-2" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-diy-burlap-curtains-2.jpg" width="600" height="906" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>We LOVE these <a href="http://www.fourgenerationsoneroof.com/2013/05/no-sew-diy-white-burlap-curtains.html" target="_blank">&#8220;no-sew burlap curtains&#8221; </a> from <em>Jessica</em> of <strong>Four Generations One Roof</strong>.  She added polka dots of sisal roping for a fun addition!</p>
<p><strong>Pillows are another great candidate for &#8220;no-sew&#8221; sewing!</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-owls.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4924" style="border: 0px;" alt="no sew owl pillows" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-owls.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></p>
<p>These <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2011/10/no-sew-owl-pillow.html" target="_blank">&#8220;no-sew&#8221; owl pillows</a> that <em>Vanessa</em> created for her kids are super easy and super cute!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-ruffle-pillow.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4925" style="border: 0px;" alt="no sew ruffle pillow" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-ruffle-pillow.jpg" width="424" height="293" /></a></p>
<p>Do you love the look of ruffles, but gave up on them since you couldn&#8217;t sew? Well fret no more. <em>Kim</em> of <strong>Sand and Sisal</strong> has a <a href="http://sandandsisal.com/2011/02/no-sew-ruffle-pillow.html" target="_blank">&#8220;no sew&#8221; ruffled pillow</a> tutorial with step by step instructions.</p>
<p><strong>There are many other &#8220;no sew&#8221; options for the house</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Faux-Chair-Slipcover.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4930" style="border: 0px;" alt="Faux-Chair-Slipcover" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Faux-Chair-Slipcover.jpg" width="460" height="800" /></a></p>
<p>How about this<a href="http://www.thistlewoodfarms.com/faux-chair-slipcover" target="_blank"> &#8220;no sew&#8221; faux chair slipcover</a> from <em>KariAnne</em> of <strong>Thistlewood Farms</strong>? Isn&#8217;t it fabulous?!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/No-Sew-Burlap-vanity-skirt-www.atthepicketfence.com_1.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4926" style="border: 0px;" alt="No Sew Burlap vanity skirt www.atthepicketfence.com_1" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/No-Sew-Burlap-vanity-skirt-www.atthepicketfence.com_1.jpg" width="527" height="786" /></a></p>
<p>like this darling <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/04/no-sew-burlap-bathroom-vanity-skirt.html" target="_blank">&#8220;no-sew&#8221; burlap bathroom vanity skirt</a> <em>Vanessa</em> created to cover up a not so pretty vanity.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/diy-no-sew-bed-cornice.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4927" style="border: 0px;" alt="diy no sew bed cornice" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/diy-no-sew-bed-cornice.jpg" width="480" height="640" /></a></p>
<p>She also created a beautiful <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2011/05/diy-cornice-fit-for-princess.html" target="_blank">&#8220;no sew&#8221; diy bed cornice</a> for her daughter&#8217;s bed, making it fit for a princess!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-fringed-drop-cloth-table-skirt-At-the-Picket-Fence.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4932" style="border: 0px;" alt="no-sew-fringed-drop-cloth-table-skirt-At-the-Picket-Fence" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-fringed-drop-cloth-table-skirt-At-the-Picket-Fence.jpg" width="528" height="755" /></a></p>
<p>drop cloths were put to good use once again when <em>Vanessa</em> made a <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/03/no-sew-drop-cloth-table-skirt.html" target="_blank">no sew fringed drop cloth table skirt</a>&#8230;one might think <strong>SHE</strong> was the one who couldn&#8217;t sew. <img src='http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><strong>The holidays are also a great place for no-sew ideas.</strong> With the Fourth of July just around the corner here are a few patriotic no sew projects!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/4th-of-July-No-Sew-Pendant-Banner.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4928" style="border: 0px;" alt="4th of July No Sew Pendant Banner" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/4th-of-July-No-Sew-Pendant-Banner.jpg" width="500" height="500" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Heather</em> created this <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2011/06/4th-of-july-no-sew-pennant-banner.html" target="_blank">&#8220;no sew&#8221; Fourth of July pennant banne</a>r from bandannas</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-patriotic-pillows.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4929" style="border: 0px;" alt="no sew patriotic pillows" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-patriotic-pillows.jpg" width="403" height="600" /></a></p>
<p>as well as these <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2011/06/no-sew-patriotic-bandana-pillows-and.html" target="_blank">&#8220;no sew&#8221; patriotic pillows</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-patio-tablecloth-with-umbrella-hole.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4931" style="border: 0px;" alt="no sew patio tablecloth with umbrella hole" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/no-sew-patio-tablecloth-with-umbrella-hole.jpg" width="640" height="427" /></a></p>
<p>and what&#8217;s summer without a pretty patio tablecloth! <em>Brittany</em> from <strong>Pretty Handy Girl</strong> created this<a href="http://www.prettyhandygirl.com/2012/06/no-sew-patio-tablecloth-with-umbrella-hole.html" target="_blank"> &#8220;no-sew&#8221; patio tablecloth</a> complete with umbrella hole out of a shower curtain!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">With such a fabulous round up we&#8217;re ready to get sewing&#8230;or wait&#8230;we guess that would be &#8220;not sewing&#8221; these amazing projects!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/12-Easy-No-Sew-Projects.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4933" alt="12 Easy No Sew Projects" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/12-Easy-No-Sew-Projects.jpg" width="600" height="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Do you have a favorite no sew project?</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/dual-signature2.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1929" alt="dual signature" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/dual-signature2.png" width="266" height="83" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Place Mat Wall Art and a Bad Attitude</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/place-mat-wall-art.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/place-mat-wall-art.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>At The Picket Fence</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[creative wall art]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hanging place mats on the wall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[place mat wall art]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[place mats]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4888</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I think it was the sweet peas that got me. I&#8217;ve always called me kids my sweet peas. But, I might have been feeling a tad grumpy. Everything in my home was in upheaval as we prepared to have new carpet and hardwood installed. I was really excited about the new flooring but the process [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Place-Mat-Wall-Art-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4891 aligncenter" alt="Place-Mat-Wall-Art atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Place-Mat-Wall-Art-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>I think it was the sweet peas that got me. I&#8217;ve always called me kids my sweet peas.</p>
<p>But, I might have been feeling a tad grumpy. Everything in my home was in upheaval as we prepared to have new carpet and hardwood installed. I was really excited about the new flooring but the process of having it done was reminding me of why I had put it off for so long.</p>
<p>Change&#8230;mess&#8230;unexpected flooring issues and decisions&#8230;moving most of my house into the garage&#8230;endless rainy days&#8230;it was all starting to wear on my last nerve.</p>
<p>So, I headed out to run some errands and made a quick stop at the craft store.</p>
<p>And saw the sweet peas.</p>
<p><span id="more-4888"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood-placemat-wall-art-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4892" alt="wood placemat wall art atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood-placemat-wall-art-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Oh sure, they were on a wood place mat along with turnips, asparagus and eggplant.</p>
<p>And sure, I didn&#8217;t actually know what I was going to do with them. But they made me smile. And my smile got even bigger when I realized they were only $2 each.</p>
<p>I didn&#8217;t realize just how big a &#8220;deal&#8221; these simple place mats would end up being.</p>
<p>You see, I live a really blessed life.</p>
<p>Sure, I&#8217;ve had my share of bigger problems but on this particular day the only problem with me was&#8230;well&#8230;me.</p>
<p>I wasn&#8217;t handling my home upheaval with the best attitude. Here I was finally getting the flooring we&#8217;ve been waiting and saving to get for years and I was grumbling about what a pain it all was!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/placemats-as-wall-art-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4890 aligncenter" alt="placemats as wall art www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/placemats-as-wall-art-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="533" height="800" /></a></p>
<p>I got home just as the flooring guys were arriving for another day of pulling, ripping, pounding and pounding and pounding and pounding and did I mention pounding?</p>
<p>And as they worked on the floors and as I worked in the kitchen I felt humbled.</p>
<p>Humbled that I have this home. Humbled that I could spend $8 on wood place mats that I didn&#8217;t really need. Humbled that we were able to pay for new flooring. Humbled that I&#8217;m not more grateful for the times when my problems are small.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/place-mats-as-wall-art-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4893 aligncenter" alt="place-mats-as-wall-art www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/place-mats-as-wall-art-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="533" height="800" /></a></p>
<p>So, I hung those place mats on a narrow wall (using Command strips) in my kitchen, just around the corner from the dining room.</p>
<p>Most people will just walk past without noticing them.</p>
<p>Others will wonder why on earth I have place mats hanging on the wall!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Place-Mat-Wall-Art-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4891 aligncenter" alt="Place-Mat-Wall-Art atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Place-Mat-Wall-Art-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>But when I catch a glimpse of those sweet peas, asparagus, turnips and eggplant I see so much more.</p>
<p>I see reminders.</p>
<p>Reminders to &#8220;give thanks in all circumstances&#8221; (1 Thessalonians 5:18).</p>
<p>Reminders to have a healthy perspective on life and my &#8220;problems&#8221;.</p>
<p>Reminders of how truly blessed I am.</p>
<p>And maybe even reminders to get my own &#8220;sweet peas&#8221; to eat their vegetables!</p>
<p>I love having you visit with me here and so appreciate you stopping by today,</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-4374 aligncenter" alt="1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B.png" width="107" height="56" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<p style="text-align: left;">Sharing this here:<br />
<a href="http://www.impartinggrace.com/2013/05/grace-at-home-no-58.html" target="_blank">Grace Imparted</a></p>
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		<title>Drop Cloth Chair Skirts</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/how-to-make-drop-cloth-chair-skirts.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/how-to-make-drop-cloth-chair-skirts.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 May 2013 19:19:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Vanessa</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crafts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dining Room]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DIY]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Good Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chair skirt tutorial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chair skirts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chair slipcovers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DIY chair skirts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[drop cloth]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[drop cloth slipcover]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4850</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I knew it would happen. It always does. You start working on one project and all of a sudden it leads to another project&#8230;and another project&#8230;and another project. Until you find yourself pulling out leftover drop cloth remnants and making chair skirts for your dining room immediately after having your entire house turned upside down [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/drop_cloth_chair_skirt_tutorial-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4855 aligncenter" alt="drop_cloth_chair_skirt_tutorial www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/drop_cloth_chair_skirt_tutorial-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
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<p style="text-align: left;">I knew it would happen. It always does. You start working on one project and all of a sudden it leads to another project&#8230;and another project&#8230;and another project. Until you find yourself pulling out leftover drop cloth remnants and making chair skirts for your dining room immediately after having your entire house turned upside down while new flooring was being installed.</p>
<p>I mean, it makes perfect sense, right? Forget putting the house back together. Let&#8217;s make some chair skirts!</p>
<p>I&#8217;m all about the essentials. <img src='http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><span id="more-4850"></span></p>
<p>Now, I have never made chair skirts or slipcovers or anything of the kind. But after spending a huge chunk of change having new carpet and hardwoods installed there was no way I was going to be buying them ready-made. I had quite a bit of drop cloth left over from a previous project and the best part about using it is that it already has seams. Gotta love anything that lets me skip a step!</p>
<p><strong>HOW TO MAKE DROP CLOTH CHAIR SKIRTS:</strong></p>
<p>1) Measure the seat of the chair and cut fabric accordingly being sure to include a one inch allowance on each side.</p>
<p>2) Determine how much of a &#8220;drop&#8221; you want for your skirt. Measure the length of the sides and front of your seat and then cut strips of drop cloth using the &#8220;drop&#8221; as your width.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chair-skirt-tutorial-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4857" alt="chair skirt tutorial atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chair-skirt-tutorial-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>3) Hem the ends of the side pieces.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chair_skirt_tutorial-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4858 aligncenter" alt="chair_skirt_tutorial www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chair_skirt_tutorial-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="533" height="800" /></a></p>
<p>4) Attach the side and front pieces (similar to making a pillow where the right-sides match up) to the &#8220;seat&#8221; piece being sure to have the hems facing towards the middle.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chair_skirt_tutorial_step_2-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4859" alt="chair_skirt_tutorial_step_2 www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chair_skirt_tutorial_step_2-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>5) Stitch each side onto the seat. This is how the skirt for the arm chairs looks. If you are doing chairs with no arms there will be only 3 straight side pieces. If you are making them for arm chairs you will have to allow for the skirts to slip between the arms by making the 2 side pieces &#8220;split&#8221; as seen here.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/arm_chair_skirt_tutorial-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4851" alt="arm_chair_skirt_tutorial atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/arm_chair_skirt_tutorial-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>6) Once completed, secure the skirt to the chair by lifting up the cushion from the frame and tucking the back fabric underneath, then reattach the cushion.</p>
<p>7) Repeat process depending on how many chairs you have.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chair_skirt_tutorial-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4852" alt="chair_skirt_tutorial atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chair_skirt_tutorial-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Here is how the arm chair skirts will look once completed.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/drop_cloth_chair_skirt-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4854" alt="drop_cloth_chair_skirt atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/drop_cloth_chair_skirt-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Chairs <strong>BEFORE</strong>:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dining-room-chairs-before.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4853" alt="dining room chairs before" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dining-room-chairs-before.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Chairs <strong>AFTER</strong>:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/arm_chair_drop_cloth_chair_skirt-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4856" alt="arm_chair_drop_cloth_chair_skirt atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/arm_chair_drop_cloth_chair_skirt-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>This dining room set was our very first BIG purchase as a married couple. I&#8217;ve often thought about selling it and getting something more &#8220;in&#8221;. You know, weathered wood. A farmhouse table and a chippy hutch.</p>
<p>But, frankly, I like this set and I&#8217;m not ashamed to admit it.</p>
<p>I love the rich, dark wood and feel sentimental every time I look at it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/drop_cloth_chair_skirt_tutorial-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4855" alt="drop_cloth_chair_skirt_tutorial www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/drop_cloth_chair_skirt_tutorial-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Besides, it&#8217;s getting chippy all on it&#8217;s own!</p>
<p>Every single chip and scratch represents all of the family gatherings and romantic dinners for two this table has seen over the last 15 years.</p>
<p>There have been rowdy celebrations and quiet heart-to-hearts. There have been spills and tears and even a few forts made out of sheets using the table and chairs.</p>
<p>No, I don&#8217;t think this dining room set is going anywhere anytime soon!</p>
<p>Thanks so much for joining me at the Fence today and please don&#8217;t hesitate to ask me questions about this tutorial. I tend to do my sewing projects in a &#8220;wing and a prayer&#8221; manner so I make no guarantees! <img src='http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4374" alt="1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B.png" width="107" height="56" /></a></p>
<p>Check out these other beautiful dining rooms:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/redheadcandecorate-dining-room.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4863" alt="redheadcandecorate dining room" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/redheadcandecorate-dining-room.jpg" width="323" height="431" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.redheadcandecorate.com/4/post/2012/12/kitchen-makeover-part-3.html">Redhead Can Decorate</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/DiningChairMakeover.jpg"><img class="wp-image-4862 aligncenter" alt="DiningChairMakeover" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/DiningChairMakeover.jpg" width="324" height="490" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://celebratingeverydaylife.com/how-to-recover-a-dining-room-chair/" target="_blank">Celebrating Everyday Life</a></p>
<p> Sharing this here:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2013/05/wow-us-wednesdays-118.html" target="_blank">Wow Us Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://diybydesign.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Swing into Spring</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2013/05/be-inspired-140-i-love-junk.html" target="_blank">Be Inspired</a></p>
<p><a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Feathered Nest Friday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://nominimalisthere.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Open House Party</a></p>
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		<title>There’s nothing borderline about this cute skirt! {DIY skirt tutorial}</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/how-to-make-a-borderline-skirt.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/how-to-make-a-borderline-skirt.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 May 2013 12:27:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Angelina</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tutorials]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Angelina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kid's clothes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[layered skirt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sewing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4842</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It&#8217;s that time of year where light and airy skirts are coming out to play. Hi!! It&#8217;s me Angelina from JoJo and Eloise and I am so excited to be here, At the Picket Fence. I am all about SKIRTS. Making them, wearing them, and shopping for them. They have to be one of the [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Borderlineskirtjojoandeloise.png" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4843" style="border: 0px;" alt="How to make a Borderline Skirt" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Borderlineskirtjojoandeloise.png" width="900" height="598" /></a></p>
<p>It&#8217;s that time of year where light and airy skirts are coming out to play.</p>
<p>Hi!! It&#8217;s me Angelina from<span style="color: #99cc00;"><a href="http://www.jojoandeloise.com"><span style="color: #99cc00;"> JoJo and Eloise </span></a></span>and I am so excited to be here, At the Picket Fence.</p>
<p>I am all about <strong>SKIRTS</strong>. <em>Making them, wearing them, and shopping for them</em>. They have to be one of the prettiest pieces of clothing ever. They are so versatile in their wear. You can dress them up for a nice evening out around town or wear them as casual as you would like.</p>
<p>If your a long time Picket Fence reader you may remember the tutorial I shared on how to make a Rainbow Layered Skirt and just in case you missed it you can check that out <span style="color: #99cc00;"><a href="http://jojoandeloise.com/2013/03/spring-rainbow-skirt/"><span style="color: #99cc00;">here</span></a></span>.</p>
<p><span id="more-4842"></span></p>
<p>Today&#8217;s Borderline Skirt is made using the same concept of the layered skirt and I am going to show you how you can take that same idea and make something totally different.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jojoandeloise.com/?attachment_id=4545" rel="attachment wp-att-4545"><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" alt="how-to-make-a-twirl-skirt" src="http://jojoandeloise.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/how-to-make-a-twirl-skirt1.png" width="598" height="900" /></a></p>
<p>Your going start by measuring the desired, TOTAL length of your skirt. From the waist to where you would like your skirt hem to fall. ( ex. mid calf, ankle, below the knee, etc..)</p>
<p>I used basic quilters cotton, purchased from <span style="color: #99cc00;"><a href="http://www.joann.com/"><span style="color: #99cc00;">Joann&#8217;s</span></a></span>. One color for the main body of the skirt and a Coordinating color for the Borderline Stripe.<br />
Cut your fabric pieces straight across the folded edge of your fabric.</p>
<p>You are going to Cut 6 pieces total. 3 for the front of the skirt and 3 for the back.</p>
<p>For reference I cut my older daughters skirt: Waist Band 3.5 inches wide ( length as needed) Top skirt piece 15inches tall, Borderline 6 inches wide and bottom skirt piece 3.5</p>
<p>My younger daughters skirt pieces: 3.5 inches wide <em>(length as needed)</em>Top skirt piece 10 inches tall, Borderline 6 inches wide and bottom skirt piece 3.5 inches</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jojoandeloise.com/?attachment_id=4536" rel="attachment wp-att-4536"><span style="color: #888888;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4536" style="border: 0px;" alt="borderline-skirt-tutorial-twirl" src="http://jojoandeloise.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/borderline-skirt-tutorial-twirl.png" width="900" height="900" /></span></a></p>
<p>Take the RIGHT side of your Borderline piece and place it on top of the RIGHT side of the BOTTOM of your Top skirt piece. Sew in place. Turn over, press and top stitch.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Repeat the same thing with the bottom edge. You are basically piecing your front and back pieces of your Skirt together.<br />
<a href="http://jojoandeloise.com/?attachment_id=4539" rel="attachment wp-att-4539"><span style="color: #888888;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4539" style="border: 0px;" alt="girls-twirl-skirt-bordered-tutorial-summer-pink-gold" src="http://jojoandeloise.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/girls-twirl-skirt-bordered-tutorial-summer-pink-gold.png" width="900" height="900" /></span></a></p>
<p>You can see more on how to finish off your skirt by checking out the <span style="color: #99cc00;"><a href="http://jojoandeloise.com/2013/03/spring-rainbow-skirt/"><span style="color: #99cc00;">Rainbow Layered Skirt</span></a></span> Tutorial that I mentioned above. The possibilities and color combinations for this skirt are endless.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jojoandeloise.com/?attachment_id=4541" rel="attachment wp-att-4541"><span style="color: #888888;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4541" style="border: 0px;" alt="girls-circle-skirt-summer-pink-jojoandeloise.com" src="http://jojoandeloise.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/girls-circle-skirt-summer-pink-jojoandeloise.com_.png" width="900" height="588" /></span></a></p>
<p>And, don&#8217;t think that this is for Kids only. I used the same technique and pattern on a skirt I made for myself.</p>
<p>So get creative and have fun making while making these Borderline Skirts.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jojoandeloise.com/?attachment_id=4542" rel="attachment wp-att-4542"><span style="color: #888888;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4542" style="border: 0px;" alt="girls-circle-skirt-striped" src="http://jojoandeloise.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/girls-circle-skirt-striped.png" width="900" height="598" /></span></a></p>
<p>Here are some other fun projects you might enjoy checking out!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Learn how to make your very own State Stencil. I will also show you, how to turn standard acrylic paint into fabric paint. You can see that<a title="How to make your own Stencil" href="http://jojoandeloise.com/2013/05/how-to-make-your-own-stencil/"> Here.</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a style="text-align: center;" href="http://jojoandeloise.com/?attachment_id=4519" rel="attachment wp-att-4519"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4519" style="border: 0px;" alt="How to make a stencil, State Stencil, Fabric Paint" src="http://jojoandeloise.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/How-to-make-a-stencil-State-Stencil-Fabric-Paint.png" width="399" height="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <em id="__mceDel" style="text-align: center;">We all love bubbles, but how about kicking them up a notch. <em>I will show you how to do just that<a title="Diy Scented Bubbles" href="http://jojoandeloise.com/2013/04/diy-scented-bubbles/"> Here</a>.</em></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jojoandeloise.com/2013/04/diy-scented-bubbles/scented-bubbles-girls-party-tea-party-spring/" rel="attachment wp-att-4343"><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" alt="Scented Bubbles, girls party, tea party, spring" src="http://jojoandeloise.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Scented-Bubbles-girls-party-tea-party-spring.png" width="399" height="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Hope to see you there!</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Angelina-signature.png" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2842" style="border: 0px;" alt="Angelina signature" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Angelina-signature.png" width="166" height="55" /></a></p>
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		<title>Balsamic Roasted Asparagus With Goat Cheese</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/balsamic-roasted-asparagus.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/balsamic-roasted-asparagus.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2013 23:40:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Vanessa</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Side Dishes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[asparagus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[asparagus with goat cheese]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[balsamic asparagus with pancetta]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[roasted asparagus]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4774</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I was thinking recently about how often I find myself saying something to my children that sounds so ridiculous but makes perfect sense to us. Things like, &#8220;Hey guys, we&#8217;re not going to pretend to be cheetahs while we&#8217;re at church, OK?&#8221; And then there are those times when you&#8217;re having a simple conversation with [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Balsamic-roasted-asparagus-with-goat-cheese-and-pancetta-www.atthepicketfence.com_1.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4822 aligncenter" alt="Balsamic roasted asparagus with goat cheese and pancetta www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Balsamic-roasted-asparagus-with-goat-cheese-and-pancetta-www.atthepicketfence.com_1.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.atthepicketfence.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fbalsamic-roasted-asparagus.html%20&amp;media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.atthepicketfence.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F05%2Fbalsamic_roasted_asparagus_with_pine-nuts_goat-cheese_pancetta-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg&amp;description=Balsamic%20Roasted%20Asparagus%20with%20Goat%20Cheese%2C%20Toasted%20Pine%20Nuts%20and%20Pancetta%20from%20www.atthepicketfence.com" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above"><img class="aligncenter" alt="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" width="40" height="20" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I was thinking recently about how often I find myself saying something to my children that sounds so ridiculous but makes perfect sense to us.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Things like, &#8220;Hey guys, we&#8217;re not going to pretend to be cheetahs while we&#8217;re at church, OK?&#8221;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And then there are those times when you&#8217;re having a simple conversation with your child, innocently answering their questions, never realizing that those answers could come back up sometime later.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Usually this involves embarrassment, hilarity or both.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span id="more-4774"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/asparagus-with-lemon-goat-cheese-pine-nuts-www.atthpicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4775 aligncenter" alt="asparagus-with-lemon-goat-cheese-pine-nuts www.atthpicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/asparagus-with-lemon-goat-cheese-pine-nuts-www.atthpicketfence.com_.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Case in point&#8230;while making this yummy dish of <strong>Balsamic Roasted Asparagus with Goat Cheese, Toasted Pine Nuts and Pancetta </strong>for Easter, my son wandered into the kitchen just as I was opening the packet of pancetta.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">&#8220;What&#8217;s that mom?&#8221;, he asked.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">&#8220;Well, it&#8217;s called pancetta&#8221;, I replied. &#8220;It&#8217;s kind of like bacon. Expensive bacon.&#8221;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The word &#8216;bacon&#8217; in our house is sacred. Revered. We love bacon&#8230;in moderation of course! He reached his hand out to grab some, I swatted it away (it&#8217;s expensive!) and that was the end of that&#8230;or so I thought.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">We loaded into the car and headed over to my in-laws home for Easter dinner.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/asparagus-with-goat-cheese-pine-nuts-pancetta.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4821 aligncenter" alt="asparagus-with-goat-cheese-pine-nuts-pancetta" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/asparagus-with-goat-cheese-pine-nuts-pancetta.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
    <div id="zlrecipe-container-14" class="zlrecipe-container-border" style="border: double;">
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			  <img class="photo" itemprop="image" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Balsamic-roasted-asparagus-with-goat-cheese-and-pancetta-www.atthepicketfence.com_1.jpg" title="Balsamic Roasted Asparagus with Goat Cheese, Pancetta, Pine Nuts" alt="Balsamic Roasted Asparagus with Goat Cheese, Pancetta, Pine Nuts"  />
			</p></div><p id="zlrecipe-ingredients" class="h-4 strong">Ingredients</p><ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list"><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Asparagus 
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Goat Cheese (flavored variety like lemon and herbs)
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Pancetta 
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Pine Nuts
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Lemon
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Balsamic Vinegar
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Olive Oil
</li><li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7" class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">Sea Salt and Black Pepper</li></ul><p id="zlrecipe-instructions" class="h-4 strong">Instructions</p><ul id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" class="instructions"><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Preheat oven to 425
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">After washing and trimming off ends of asparagus, pat dry and place on foil lined baking sheet.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Drizzle 2 Tbsp. of olive oil over top followed by 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Sprinkle with appx. 1 tsp. sea salt and 1 tsp. pepper. Using hands roll asparagus back and forth until all sides are coated.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Bake in oven for 10-15 minutes making sure asparagus is soft but still firm to the touch.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-5" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">While asparagus is roasting, lightly crisp pancetta in a frying pan. 
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-6" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Toast pine nuts in small frying pan (do not use oil in the pan). 
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-7" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Remove asparagus from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-8" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Top with crumbled goat cheese, crumbled pancetta, pine nuts.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-9" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Squeeze juice from fresh lemon over the top.
</li><li id="zlrecipe-instruction-10" class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Serve immediately. 
</li></ul><div class="zl-linkback" style="display: none;">Schema/Recipe SEO Data Markup by <a title="ZipList Recipe Plugin" alt="ZipList Recipe Plugin" href="http://www.ziplist.com/recipe_plugin" target="_blank">ZipList Recipe Plugin</a></div><div class="ziplist-recipe-plugin" style="display: none;">2.2</div><a id="zl-printed-permalink" href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/balsamic-roasted-asparagus.html"title="Permalink to Recipe">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/balsamic-roasted-asparagus.html</a></div><div id="zl-printed-copyright-statement" itemprop="copyrightHolder">This recipe is copyrighted by At The Picket Fence</div></div>
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<p style="text-align: left;">And as my father-in-law went to reach for the dish of Balsamic Roasted Asparagus with Goat Cheese, Toasted Pine Nuts and Pancetta, my son said, &#8220;Oh, hey Papa, just so you know that bacon is REALLY expensive!&#8221;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">My father-in-law just stared for a moment and then we all dissolved into laughter.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And pancetta will now forever be known in our house as the &#8220;expensive bacon&#8221;.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">My life as a mom seems to be divided into two categories. There are those big, huge moments. The ones that are videotaped and preserved in photos and talked about over and over again.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">But, then there is the other category.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">It&#8217;s filled with small moments. Small moments of laughter over a funny comment from my kids. Small moments of praying with them at bedtime. Small moments of going on a ladybug &#8220;expedition&#8221;. Small moments of cooking together in the kitchen and having water balloon fights and going for walks in the woods and losing my patience and asking for forgiveness. Of holding a little hand in mine. Of holding another hand that used to be little but now is almost as big as mine. Of snuggling and wiping tears and kissing &#8220;owies&#8221; and answering tough questions.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/roasted-asparagus-with-goat-cheese.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4777 aligncenter" alt="roasted asparagus with goat cheese" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/roasted-asparagus-with-goat-cheese.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And these moments, collected together end up being just as meaningful as those seemingly &#8220;bigger&#8221; moments. Perhaps even more meaningful. They are the stuff of my everyday life. The ins and outs of this roller coaster ride called motherhood. My journey to being called &#8220;mommy&#8221; was not easy. It was fought for.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">You can read about it in my <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?cat=23" target="_blank">A Labor of the Heart </a>series.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Cropped-Family.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4823 aligncenter" alt="Cropped Family" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Cropped-Family.jpg" width="640" height="609" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">As I was writing this post I began to notice something.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Every time I wrote out the word &#8216;moment&#8217; I saw the word &#8216;mom&#8217;.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And I don&#8217;t think I will ever pronounce it the same again.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">From now on, it will always be &#8216;mom&#8217;ent to me.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Thank you so much for taking the time to meet me today At the Picket Fence,</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B.png"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-4374" alt="1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B.png" width="107" height="56" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<p style="text-align: left;">Sharing this here:</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/2013/05/tutorials-tips-and-tidbits-49.html#more" target="_blank">Tutorials Tips and Tidbits</a></p>
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		<title>Living Room Makeover Reveal</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/living-room-makeover-reveal.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/living-room-makeover-reveal.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 13:00:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Vanessa</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Good Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[formal living room]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[french country living room]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[living room]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[living room makeover]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mirrored furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[traditional living room]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4764</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[People who know me well will tell you that I&#8217;m a person of convictions. I feel strongly about things. Things like properly brewed coffee. What is the point of drinking weak coffee? If it doesn&#8217;t jolt you awake you might as well just become a tea drinker. Not that there&#8217;s anything wrong with that! And [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/traditional-formal-living-room-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4819 aligncenter" alt="traditional-formal-living-room www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/traditional-formal-living-room-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="649" height="893" /></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;">People who know me well will tell you that I&#8217;m a person of convictions. I feel strongly about things.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Things like properly brewed coffee. What is the point of drinking weak coffee? If it doesn&#8217;t jolt you awake you might as well just become a tea drinker. Not that there&#8217;s anything wrong with that! <img src='http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And there are some clothing styles which were debatable the first time around but are downright horrid when you see them making a comeback&#8230;ahem&#8230;stirrup pants!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I also firmly believe that when decorating your home it is important to honor the architecture and style of the house itself. It doesn&#8217;t have to be a confining thing but if you recognize the fundamental roots of your home and then infuse it with your own personality, the marriage between the two is seamless.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span id="more-4764"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">When we first moved into our home, decorating the living room was fairly low on the priority list. This house was quite a bit bigger than our previous one and with a 5 year old and a toddler I didn&#8217;t have much time or energy to devote to this rarely used space. Plus, frankly it intimidated me. I was still figuring out my style and the green carpet was definitely a hindrance. It dictated which colors I could use and well&#8230;here you have it.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">This is my living room BEFORE&#8230;as in 2009 before. Yep.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Living-room-before.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4797 aligncenter" alt="Living room before" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Living-room-before.jpg" width="675" height="498" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Ours is really a quintessentially <em>traditional</em> home. It just lends to a more formal style but I really didn&#8217;t want it to feel stuffy. Slowly but surely I made little changes here and there but until we could get rid of the green carpet, nothing was going to ever seem quite right.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Here is the same room last Christmas.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Christmas-Living-Room-At-the-Picket-Fence.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4798 aligncenter" alt="Christmas Living Room At the Picket Fence" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Christmas-Living-Room-At-the-Picket-Fence.jpg" width="738" height="492" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And here it is now.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">New carpet, mirrored chests on either side of the fireplace, 2 button-tufted chairs and lots of other little changes have all come together to create a space that is soothing&#8230;warm&#8230;kinda traditional&#8230;kinda french country&#8230;and very ME!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Formal-French-Country-Living-Room-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4779 aligncenter" alt="Formal French Country Living Room www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Formal-French-Country-Living-Room-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.atthepicketfence.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fliving-room-makeover-reveal.html&amp;media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.atthepicketfence.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F05%2FFormal-French-Country-Living-Room-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg&amp;description=Traditional%20French%20Country%20Living%20Room%20Makeover%20www.atthepicketfence.com" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above"><img class="aligncenter" alt="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" width="40" height="20" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">If it were possible to be in love with chairs then these two sweethearts would have my utter devotion&#8230;actually, they do!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/button-tufted-chairs-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4791 aligncenter" alt="button-tufted-chairs www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/button-tufted-chairs-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Don&#8217;t you just love the multi-colored fabric buttons? I swoon every time I walk into the room and see them there and I&#8217;m swooning now just looking at this picture. Swoon, swoon, swoon.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/fabric-covered-button-tufted-chair-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4766 aligncenter" alt="fabric covered button tufted chair www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/fabric-covered-button-tufted-chair-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">For years my husband had been asking me if we can get rid of the glass coffee table that has been sitting in our attic. And for years I&#8217;ve been telling him that I could just feel in my gut that we were meant to hold onto it. After all, we purchased it as newlyweds and I knew one day it would find it&#8217;s place of honor again. The MOMENT those carpet guys left I was hauling it out of the attic!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/glass-coffee-table-with-tray-vignette-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4784 aligncenter" alt="glass coffee table with tray vignette www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/glass-coffee-table-with-tray-vignette-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Our fireplace is perfectly centered in the room and I&#8217;ve always felt like it needed to be flanked by matching pieces. Kind of creating a &#8220;built-in&#8221; look. These mirrored dressers (found at Tuesday Morning) did the trick.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/mirrored-dresser-next-to-fireplace-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-4793" alt="mirrored dresser next to fireplace www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/mirrored-dresser-next-to-fireplace-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">These chippy door frames with iron inserts were the perfect way to add height above the cabinets. I would like to tell you that I scoured and scoured flea markets and went hither and yon to find them. I would like to say that I was driving through the countryside and spotted an old barn sitting at the top of hill of wildflowers and after pulling open those creaky barn doors I discovered these gems lying their in all of their chippy glory.</p>
<p>But, I can&#8217;t. Cause I got them at the craft store. It&#8217;ll be our little secret, OK?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood-door-with-iron-detail-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4792 aligncenter" alt="wood-door-with-iron-detail www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wood-door-with-iron-detail-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/antique-books-and-glasses-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4783 aligncenter" alt="antique books and glasses atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/antique-books-and-glasses-atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">My grandmother&#8217;s china cabinet was moved over to this wall and is a perfect fit.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/formal-living-room-in-a-traditional-home-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4768 aligncenter" alt="formal living room in a traditional home www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/formal-living-room-in-a-traditional-home-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>This cabinet will never be painted.</p>
<p>The end.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/china-cabinet-with-cream-ware-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4765 aligncenter" alt="china cabinet with cream ware www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/china-cabinet-with-cream-ware-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="675" height="1013" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/tapestry-living-room-drapes-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4799 aligncenter" alt="tapestry-living-room-drapes www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/tapestry-living-room-drapes-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="608" height="912" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/formal-french-country-living-room-makeover-www.atthepicketfence.com_1.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-4816 aligncenter" alt="formal-french-country-living-room-makeover www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/formal-french-country-living-room-makeover-www.atthepicketfence.com_1.jpg" width="675" height="450" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">This room and I have come a long way. We&#8217;ve honed our style. We&#8217;ve waited and saved and waited and saved in order to make choices which I believe will last us along time. Oh sure, we&#8217;ve made a few mistakes along the way. But just like any great relationship, it has only served to make us stronger!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And, remember that green carpet? Well, it wasn&#8217;t only in this room. Yep. Just like stirrup pants, it wouldn&#8217;t go away! It was also in the dining room, office, on the staircase and down the upstairs hallway. So in the coming weeks I&#8217;m going to have more fun makeovers to share with you!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Until then, thanks so much for joining me in saying farewell to green carpet (stirrup pants) forever!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-4374 aligncenter" alt="1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B.png" width="107" height="56" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Want to see more of our room makeovers?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2012/04/powder-room-reveal.html" target="_blank">Powder Room Makeover</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/powder-room-makeover.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4803 aligncenter" alt="powder room makeover" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/powder-room-makeover.jpg" width="421" height="432" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/02/vintage-girls-bedroom.html" target="_blank">Vintage Girl&#8217;s Bedroom</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Vintage-Vanity-table-At-the-Picket-Fence.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-3041 aligncenter" alt="Vintage Vanity table At the Picket Fence" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Vintage-Vanity-table-At-the-Picket-Fence.jpg" width="389" height="298" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2011/11/dining-room-makeover-reveal.html" target="_blank">Dining Room Makeover</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dining-room-makeover2_thumb2.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4804 aligncenter" alt="dining room makeover2_thumb[2]" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dining-room-makeover2_thumb2.jpg" width="384" height="258" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/04/french-country-bathroom-makeover.html" target="_blank">Bathroom Makeover</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/French-Country-Bathroom-Makeover-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-4001 aligncenter" alt="French Country Bathroom Makeover www.atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/French-Country-Bathroom-Makeover-www.atthepicketfence.com_.jpg" width="324" height="414" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Sharing this here:</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com">Feathered Nest Friday</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://designdininganddiapers.com/2013/05/inspiration-gallery-link-party-35/" target="_blank">The Inspiration Gallery</a></p>
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		<title>Living in the moment….</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/outshine-fruit-bars.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/outshine-fruit-bars.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 May 2013 11:30:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Heather</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Desserts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fruit Bars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outshine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Treats]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[&#160; Lately I&#8217;ve been contemplating what it means to live in the moment.  As the mother of a young adult and a newly minted teenager, I see the days going by in a blur. &#160; I find myself clinging to precious moments with them.  The moments when I can get them to sit down with me [...]]]></description>
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<p>
&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Lately I&#8217;ve been contemplating what it means to <strong><em>live in the moment</em></strong>.<strong> </strong> As the mother of a young adult and a newly minted teenager, I see the days going by in a blur.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-6.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4213" style="border: 0px;" alt="Outshine Fruit Bars from At The Picket Fence" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-6.jpg" width="675" height="475" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I find myself clinging to precious moments with them.  The moments when I can get them to sit down with me for a few minutes and share with me about their day.  Open up about their hopes and dreams. I have learned the best way to get them to linger a little longer is to make sure there&#8217;s a snack close at hand.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">There&#8217;s something about chatting on the front porch on a warm spring evening, our feet propped up on the porch and our wicker rockers swaying in sync that slows down time.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Not wanting to waste precious minutes with the kids in the kitchen baking a treat, I love to keep sweet, but healthy, spur of the moment snacks on hand.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4202" style="border: 0px;" alt="Living in the Moment with Outshine Fruit Bars " src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-2.jpg" width="675" height="493" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> <span id="more-4200"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Our new family treat is Edy&#8217;s <a href="http://goo.gl/jBSMR" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Outshine</a> Fruit Bars.  We each have our favorite flavor, so I like to keep several varieties in the freezer.  My sweet and sassy daughter loves the <strong>Outshine</strong> <strong>Peach</strong> fruit bars, while my son tends to gravitate towards the tart <strong>Raspberry</strong>.  <em>Isn&#8217;t it funny how flavors can match our personalities?</em> grin!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">My husband loves the old fashioned goodness of <strong>Strawberry</strong>, while my new favorite is the <strong>Coconut Waters with Bananas</strong>.  I am craving all things coconut these days and the Outshine Coconut Waters Fruit Bars satisfy that need in a low-calorie way.  In fact, there are <strong>24 bright flavors</strong> to choose from..so there&#8217;s a <em>snack brighter</em> flavor perfect for everyone!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-3.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4206" alt="Outshine Fruit Bars " src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-3.jpg" width="675" height="475" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Made with real fruit or fruit juice, they rival the bowl of fresh fruit I like to serve alongside.  <em>Rocking and snacking</em>. <em>Dreaming and dishing the dirt.</em> I cherish each moment spent with my children and the glimpse they give me into their hearts.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-4209" style="border: 0px;" alt="Outshine Fruit Bars " src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-1.jpg" width="675" height="863" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">As their lives get busier and the pull of friends and jobs and school becomes stronger I hope that knowing mom is always waiting at the door for them, <em>with a listening ear and a treat in the freezer</em>, will bring them back to the front porch.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Back to the rocking chair and a waiting <a href="http://goo.gl/jBSMR" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Outshine</a> fruit bar in their favorite flavor.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">In fact, the occasion may even warrant serving them on a silver platter!</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" alt="Outshine Fruit Bars from At The Picket Fence" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Outshine-Fruit-Bars-6.jpg" width="675" height="475" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Be sure to check out the <strong><a href="http://goo.gl/jBSMR" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Outshine Facebook Page</a> </strong>for more great ways to enjoy life&#8217;s moments with this healthy treat!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Leave me a comment with which Outshine flavor you&#8217;ll be picking up next time you&#8217;re in the freezer section and you&#8217;ll be entered to win a $100 Visa Card!</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong>Which Outshine Fruit Bar flavor would you like to try?</strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/signature-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2398" style="border: 0px;" alt="signature 1" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/signature-1.jpg" width="116" height="72" /></a></p>
<p> <em>I was provided product and compensation for this review, but all opinions express are my own.  </em></p>
<p>Sweepstakes Rules:</p>
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<p>You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:</p>
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<p>This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.</p>
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<p>This sweepstakes runs from 5/8/13 – 6/12/13.</p>
<p>Be sure to visit the <a href="https://www.blogher.com/outshine">OUTSHINE brand page on BlogHer.com</a> where you can read other bloggers’ reviews and find more chances to win!</p>
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		<title>Are you a “Thrifting Diva”?</title>
		<link>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/are-you-a-thrifting-diva.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2013/05/are-you-a-thrifting-diva.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2013 12:43:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>At The Picket Fence</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Round-Up]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twitter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hometalk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[thrifting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[twitter party]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.atthepicketfence.com/?p=4742</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; Do you love a good &#8220;find&#8221;? Do you like the thrill of the hunt as you did through piles of discarded items for that one treasure? If you are a thrifter than you totally get what I mean.  That &#8220;ah ha!&#8221; moment when you discover a diamond on the rough under an old afghan, [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Do you love a good &#8220;find&#8221;? Do you like the thrill of the hunt as you did through piles of discarded items for that one treasure?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hometalk.com/b/788879/thrifting-divas" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" alt="Round up of  30 projects from thift store finds atthepicketfence.com" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HeatherThriftingDivas06051-468x1024.jpg" width="468" height="1024" /></a></p>
<p>If you are a thrifter than you totally get what I mean.  That &#8220;ah ha!&#8221; moment when you discover a diamond on the rough under an old afghan, 3 discarded Christmas wreaths and endless pieces of yellowed tupperware on the shelves of the Goodwill.</p>
<p>Or when browsing the aisles of your favorite thrift fair or market, you find that Olive Bucket you&#8217;ve been dying to own and refused to pay $150 for at Pottery Barn!</p>
<p>It&#8217;s such a great feeling.</p>
<p>We have had some great thrifting finds over the years here.  Like Vanessa&#8217;s <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2012/05/diy-kitchen-cupboard-turned-dartboard.html" target="_blank">upcycled kitchen cabinet turned dartboard</a> or Heather&#8217;s toolbox turned <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2011/06/making-outdoor-dining-easier.html" target="_blank">Dining Caddy</a> and <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2012/06/from-humble-goodwill-box-to-faux-wine.html" target="_blank">old crate turned faux wine box</a>.</p>
<p>I have rounded up an amazing list of projects and posts to inspire the &#8220;thrifting diva&#8221; in you! There are so many fabulous ideas for repurposing, upcycling and rehabbing thrift finds!</p>
<p>Projects like these <a href="http://www.hometalk.com/699741/painted-lace-vintage-tins" target="_blank">vintage lace tins</a> from The Graphics Fairy:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/vintage-lace-tins-from-The-Graphics-Fairy.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4745" style="border: 0px;" alt="vintage lace tins from The Graphics Fairy" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/vintage-lace-tins-from-The-Graphics-Fairy.jpg" width="574" height="507" /></a></p>
<p>or this awesome post on <a href="http://www.hometalk.com/1272813/toolboxes-are-really-for-flowers-didn-t-you-know" target="_blank">ways to use old toolboxe</a>s from Funk Junk Interiors:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/tool-box-uses-from-Funky-Junk-Interiors.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4746" style="border: 0px;" alt="tool box uses from Funky Junk Interiors" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/tool-box-uses-from-Funky-Junk-Interiors.jpg" width="381" height="507" /></a></p>
<p>Be sure to visit my <a href="http://www.hometalk.com/b/788879/thrifting-divas" target="_blank"><strong>Thrifting Divas</strong></a> board at Hometalk for even more fabulous ideas!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">But maybe you have some <strong>questions</strong> or needs some<strong> tips and tricks</strong> on how best to shop on your favorite thrift outings! Maybe you&#8217;d love to just spend a little time hanging out with other thrifting divas and some of your favorite &#8220;thrifty idols!&#8221;</p>
<p>If so, I&#8217;d <strong>LOVE</strong> to invite you to join me this <strong>Thursday, May 9th, at 9 PM EST</strong> for a fun Twitter Chat on all things thrifting! I am being joined by a fabulous panel of experts:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Hometalk-Lucketts-Twitter-Chat06054.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4743" style="border: 0px;" alt="Hometalk Lucketts Twitter Chat" src="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Hometalk-Lucketts-Twitter-Chat06054.jpg" width="633" height="575" /></a></p>
<p>Seriously, does it get any better than this?!  Donna of <a href="http://www.funkyjunkinteriors.net/" target="_blank"><strong>Funky Junk Interiors,</strong></a> Marian of <strong><a href="http://missmustardseed.com/" target="_blank">Miss Mustard Seed</a></strong>, Karen of <strong><a href="http://graphicsfairy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Graphics Fairy</a></strong> and the <a href="http://www.luckettstore.com/" target="_blank">Old Lucketts Store</a> will be hanging out with us to answer our questions on thrifting and share their secrets!</p>
<p>Be sure to RSVP to enter the &#8220;Thrifting Money&#8221; giveaways during the chat!</p>
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<p><strong>How to participate</strong><br />
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Use <strong><a href="http://tweetchat.com/room/hometalk" target="_blank">Tweetchat</a></strong> for easy chatting.</p>
<p>Anyone can participate, but you must be following @Hometalk and RSVP before the chat!</p>
<p><strong>Follow us here</strong><br />
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<p><strong>RSVP here</strong><br />
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<p>P.S. Winners will be selected at random from RSVP&#8217;s. (If a winner is chosen who RSVP’d but did not attend a 2nd winner will be chosen.)</p>
<p>Leave us a comment if you have any questions.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Can&#8217;t wait to tweet with you Thursday night! See you then!</p>
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