Are you ready?  Ready to see what Meredith has in mind for our Kitchen/Living room/Dining room?

The reason we are designing all three is because as you may remember from our house lay out, it’s an open concept area.  There was no way to rip out the cupboards and have this amazing looking kitchen into a dining room and living room that just didn’t fit.  Paint will extend most of the walls on the main floor and the look and feel will carry throughout.

Are you ready? As you can imagine we have been blown away and are beyond excited.

The pieces in the idea boards aren’t all finalized – some are (for example, I think that amazing chandelier and small fabric sample will be our drapes.  I know right? Love it).

But these pictures will give you a real idea of the look we are going for.  Eventually I’ll be able to share the colours of the island and the cabinets which I love so much and the island is going to be like a piece of furniture.  YAY!

Colour scheme: Greys, blacks, whites, accented with yellow.

Source: meredithheron.com via Rebecca on Pinterest

Source: meredithheron.com via Rebecca on Pinterest

In recent months, my children have taken a real interest in story telling, colouring, writing – basically expressing themselves on paper.

As you may remember, my son wrote a comic strip and I often have paper taped to the kitchen table for them to scribble on. My daughter will colour and draw for a very long time happily.

Even though they can’t fully write words (although my son can write letters so often will ask me how to spell certain words), I want them to be encouraged to continue their expression in any form.  Eventually, they’ll be able to write words, then sentences and weave stories or poems or thoughts as they come to their minds.

So, for $1.50 per book at Michaels, I got them each a journal.  The coffee cup filled with crayons, markers and pencils is always accessible to them in the kitchen (and typically they are used only for paper) so now each of them have a book to use when inspiration strikes.  Sometimes there are letters, scribbles, pictures, stickers – it doesn’t matter.  They don’t have to ask to write it in, or show me, but they are always there for them. When they fill that one up, I will happily replace them.

It seems like a simple thing but I know they like it.  And I like encouraging them to express themselves.

You may remember I wrote about our kitchen renos and designer we hired a few months ago (for a recap and the before pictures, check out this post). Meredith Heron is no stranger in the design or TV world and now I get to welcome her into my home to help make it a house to stay in.  Her plans are already blowing us away (more on that in a few posts!) and we are so excited.

Meredith has been a pleasure to work with.  I suspect part of the design/reno process and experience when working with a professional really has a lot to do with ‘fit’.  Finding someone that not only meets your style preferences but also that you enjoy working with.  This process is not easy and the wrong ‘fit’ could be troublesome.  That’s one of the reasons we have been so happy with our process so far.  There’s a great fit!

I highly recommend following her blog to see her sketching, fabric loves and design process.  You can also keep up to date on her Facebook page and chat with her on Twitter (@meredithheron).

And seriously, when you see the design stuff you’re mind will be blown

Recently Meredith was kind enough to answer some questions about designing and parenthood.  I hope you enjoy her answers as much as I do! (Thank you Meredith!)

1- You write a fabulous blog called Sashay about your projects, design ideas and more which just won Design Bloggers Best New Blog (congrats!!).  How important has blogging become to designers?

Oh this is a loaded question…

I think that writing a blog is great if you have some sort of social media plan. You MUST have a big picture goal. Writing a blog because everyone else is writing one is a waste of time and undoubtedly you will get frustrated and quit or it will show in the writing. There are other options out there such as a Tumblr or even a Pinterest Feed whereby you can communicate inspiration without having to be tied to a weekly/daily writing journal.  Blogging is about finding your voice and sharing it and it’s a SERIOUS amount of work. For me personally it’s been huge in two ways: A) it gets my voice and point of view out there for people to see and B) it’s way freaking cheaper than therapy. Seriously, it’s therapeutic for me I love the outlet it offers.

2- What’s a colour trend you are seeing right now and loving? What’s one you aren’t loving so much?

I don’t think that there is any one colour trend out there in decor. I mean people are trying to push certain colours at us and tell us that they are trendy but I really see current design/decor being about following your own heart/interests/trends. Decor has become so much more personal of late whether it be through curation or handmade. I see Decor more often than not telling a story. At least if I have anything to do with it. I hate beige, brown and bland. Especially if accented with Condiment colours of red/yellow/green. Shoot me now. That palette makes me go squirrely. Not Autumnal Decorating. JUST SAY NO.

3- We’re re-doing the kids’ rooms, trying to keep them fun for their personalities but not too ‘kid-like’.  Have you designed your son’s room? How did you select the design look to keep both of you happy?

I have designed Luke’s Baby-Toddler room – it should be out in the near future in a fabulous Canadian Magazine! I like you, opted to not pigeon-hole the space into a baby/toddler room. I could easily remove the crib and add a bed and call it a snazzy guest room in a pinch. I chose bold horizontal stripes, plaid drapery and bedskirt in an unusual colour combo of periwinkle/indigo/white and then have accented the room in Vivid Citrine, Red and Turquoise if you can imagine. Lots of pattern and interest but the stripes are kept to one wall and the remaining walls are a warm white – very gallery inspired. We have a lot of art on display in his room, including valuable pieces we’ve collected. I think it is imperative to teach Art Appreciation as early as possible to children. He loves the space but can still sleep in it. Very important in a child’s room!!! I don’t believe in ever using vivid or bright colours in a child’s room. A play room sure. Sleeping Room  NEVER. A room that they do homework in – no way no how. It’s important to think about the desired use/outcome before you paint.

 4- What’s your favourite room in a house to design and decorate?

Foyers and Powder Rooms are insanely fun because people will usually let you be bold in these areas. I love most rooms but I do find bedrooms the hardest. The bedding scheme is always tricky (well at least if budget is a consideration)…

5- Off the topic of design, anyone who reads your blog knows that you write about life as a mom and your son Luke too.  What are your tips for balancing work and family time?

Me giving advice on the work/life/family balance…. HIGH-LARIOUS. I’m a workaholic. Let’s call a spade a spade. You see I’m a former teacher turned interior designer. I made my hobby my passion into my profession. I could work all day every day if I was allowed.

I’m often policed by my son Luke who at 2.5yrs says “Momma, put the (com) pewwwwwter (his pronunciation) down now,” or  ”Momma read to me NOW not in a second.” Humbling to hear that come from a 2.5 yr old. It’s a constant struggle for me to be honest. I’ve gotten better at saying no but I’m a people pleaser so I tend to answer yes and then slap myself on the forehead and say “That wasn’t very well thought out now was it!” When you run your own business, it’s really like having another child…

What I do do well though is integrate Luke into my work. He is a regular attendee at events that I’m invited to or are involved in. He travels with my husband & business partner Asa all the time. In fact, if he’s not welcome, I often decline, though I rarely ask and just bring him along. He loves being a part of our world and is very adept at selecting fabric swatches. He’s most especially fond of any projects that involve us going to a restaurant or designing a restaurant though, he is familiar with many of our clients’ by name and often asks to go and visit their very nice houses.

Some sleeping in, delicious breakfast cooked by my family, a trip to Parliament Hill for a walk on a sunny, gorgeous day, bakery goodies, and family fun with my parents, siblings and their families basically leaves Mother’s Day a success.  I have a warm heart and feel very loved and surrounded by wonderful people.

I hope your Mother’s Day was wonderful and I send warm thoughts to those of you who are missing their mother’s or have motherhood in their hearts.

from my first Mother's Day with both kids

Even though I like to think mom’s should be doted on year-round, Sunday is Mother’s Day which hopefully means a little extra something special for moms.   I have to admit, I’m spoiled with love all the time, but this day is always nice.  Sometimes we go out, sometimes we just stay in and enjoy the day together.

This year we’ll be spending it together just the four of us, and then joining all of my family to celebrate with my mom.  It should be a very fun day.

While I love getting chocolate and flowers and books (year round even), here are a few gifts (aimed to moms with kids still at home) to give that are some of my favourite that cost nothing (or next to nothing at least).   The point: To show her how special she is. It’s not about the gifts – it’s about the thought. 

Remember – there is not too many times to say ‘thank you’ and ‘I love you’!

1 – Let mom sleep in

Honestly, this is what I want.  And for me, sleeping in could  be 8 am (especially if we decide to go do something).  But sleep, especially for mothers with young children, is still highly coveted and valued.

2 – Her favourite food (at home or out – it doesn’t matter, but depending on the age of the kids, whatever involves the least stress!)

Make mom her favourite meal or treat or incorporate it some how.  It can be breakfast in bed (although, I have a feeling that may be tricky here) or have the kids help put together a tasty surprise.  Don’t forget the coffee, but let the adults take care of that.  The key here: She doesn’t do the planning (or shopping preferably) or the clean up.

A few years ago I got a steak and lobster meal cooked by Andy.  That was pretty impressive.

3 – Home made gifts/cards

It may sound corny, but when your kids run up to you with something they made just for you, you can’t help but feel special right?  They get very excited about their creations and I love that.  It’s very special.  Not sure what to make dads? Do something simple like painting or stickers on folded paper to make a card.  Or check out these flower crafts by momstown.

4 – Spend time together – but relax

We have a pretty clear ‘no cooking or cleaning’ rule on Father’s Day and Mother’s Day (for whoever is the ‘parent’ of honour).  I like that rule.

I look at Mother’s Day as being perfect when I’m surrounded by the family.  I love a little sleep in, even some quiet time to read a book, but I want to spend the day with the kids doing something we all enjoy.  On nice days this may mean drive to somewhere  outside, play time at a park etc.   Even though we’ll be joining the rest of my family in the afternoon, having some special time – where I don’t have to worry about a meal, about cleaning, about laundry – together in the morning will make my day wonderful.

How will you be spending Mother’s Day if you are celebrating (as a mom or with a mom!) 

Ottawa has been a dark and rainy and not-so-warm place lately.  Considering it’s May 8, I expect more.

Yes, we were spoiled with ridiculously warm weather in March, and we all *knew* it couldn’t last, but still. I want some nice weather back.  I don’t need 28 degrees, just a nice steady 19 or 20 degrees with sun and less wind would be lovely.

I appreciate the rain in April – look how my garden grows!

iris

hydrangea

But now, I’m over it.  I can remember last year at this time was much warmer.  I know that because I was reading new books in the back yard after the kids went to bed in May.

This weekend, and yesterday was amazing. Warm, lovely sunshine that lifted spirits across the city.  It was nice to get outside for walks, to the park, and read in the backyard.  This is the weather I want.   But now we’re back to rain. For how long? I’m not sure, but it’s been dark and dreary a lot lately.  We need more sun!

The kids and I have been busy during the day, we’re crafting and learning and playing and having play dates.  That’s not the issue.  However, we are all missing the park.  And extended time in our back yard.  I swear, last week my son asked if it was time to pull the sprinkler out. Because last year at this time we had!

So, dear May, a little extra sun if you don’t mind?

What’s the weather been like in your neck of the woods?  Ottawa friends, are you missing the sun too?

I know many of you are also fellow bloggers (yay!).  I find there is so much information out there for us to learn and grow.  Courses, e-books, conferences, blog posts – I love learning so I try to read as much as I can about this online world to continue my own growth.

I have discovered the only way to improve what I do, or how I do it, is simply to write and try new things.  Some ideas work well, others fall a little flat.  But the act of trying and trying some more is all part of the learning and growth process.

I’ve written about blogging before – ways that small changes have helped my readership.  Or how bloggers can successfully work with PR people.  I still believe content rules though (beyond the numbers and stats), and the more we read and share, the more our own words will flow.

Want to meet the Ottawa blogging community? I can’t recommend the Blog Out Loud event enough that is coming up in June.  I read the past two years and it was thrilling.  It’s amazing to hear blog posts being read by those who wrote them.  It brings life to the words in a whole new way.  There’s still time to apply to read this year, but even if you don’t read, it’s a wonderful event to attend in support of the Ottaaw blogging community (no matter if you are just starting to blog now, soon or have been for years)

Also, if you’ve been thinking about doing something to improve your blog (new design? courses? etc) I wanted to let you know that Mom Central Canada is offering blogger grants.  Applications for the first round of grants ends May 15.  This is a really unique opportunity to get some funding for those projects you’ve been hoping to do, but cost something.

I have had a fantastic experience within the blogging community – fellow bloggers I have run into are extremely supportive and I really appreciate that.

How do you work to improve your blog? What do you hope to do with it in the next 6 months? Will I see you at Blog Out Loud Ottawa?

Yes, I’m still blogging over at A Little Bit of Foodsense (along with fabulous contributors).  However, I have been terrible about keeping them up. My iPhone is covered with pictures of recipes, but I struggle to keep up with the recipe writing.

Part of it is simply time. When I’m writing for this blog, or for momstown, those gigs take precedent.  But Bit of Foodsense is where my stomach always leads me.  I love food, writing about food and capturing those recipes.

This post is a commitment to get BACK into that sharing.  Don’t get me wrong, there’s been a lot of eating and cooking going on – it’s just what I do, but it’s the sharing that I need to get better at.

So, in no particular order, here are 5 recipe from Bit of Foodsense that I think you will enjoy – and stay tuned for more!

1 - Chocolate Chip Cake

2 - Slow Cooker Ribs

3 - Whole Wheat Flax Seed Bread Maker Bread

4- Mashed Cauliflower

5 - Pizza Crust

Sometimes, I get emails enquiring about advertising from companies that I already shop at or that I really love (the advertisers on the side bar pretty well sum that up!).  It’s really wonderful to work with products that we use already.  That’s why I couldn’t help but laugh when an email came from a PR company representing Dorset Cereals – as I was eating it.

We are a cereal family, and we do try to be conscious about the cereals we eat.  We have some favourites, some have more sugar than they should, others are tasty and healthy.  I bought Dorset Cereal at Farm Boy one day – the raisin and coconut mix really grabbed my attention and I really loved it.

As part of our advertising partnership I was sent other boxes to try (although I still have a hard time liking anything better than coconut and raisins) but there are some other wonderfully tasty choices using whole grains, seeds and nuts.  The kids eat it too!

I eat mine with milk, but my son and husband love theirs with yogurt.  So many choices!

There are no added sugars (yay!) but there is sugar content because of the dried fruit.  In the information the PR company sent me, I was especially drawn to the commitment to quality ingredients – I’m told that the company works closely with their suppliers and use products free of GMOs and while not certified organic, they do testing often to ensure GMOs and pesticides aren’t used in their products.  I really appreciate that, especially when trying to eat healthy.

Above all else – they are tasty!  Welcome Dorset Cereals to the Bit of Momsense website.

You can follow them on Twitter too @dorsetcereals

WIN!

You have a chance to try them too!

Dorset Cereals are giving away 2 gift packs that include 4 7 (updated – even more yummy goodness to be won!) of their cereal recipes and a reusable lunch bag.

To enter: Comment below and tell me what your favourite nut/seed/grain/fruit is in your cereal – I’ve always been partial to raisins and my husband has always seemed to like almonds.

Open to Canadian residents only, excluding QC.  2 draws will take place via random.org on Friday, May 11 9 pm EST.  Please note products have nuts in them if allergies are a concern.  

It’s funny how no matter what fancy toys we buy the kids, the old joke about the cardboard box being what they play with remains true.

I love it when we get boxes that we can turn into cars or forts or castles.   I love it.  Imagination runs wild.  I’m sure the recycle pick up guy is used to seeing rainbows of coloured pictures all over every box we put to the curb.  Sometimes Andy gets a little too ambitious and takes apart/cuts down boxes early before we’ve played with them.  He doesn’t do that as often any more after we requested it stop

This week I ordered packing boxes from movingboxes.ca.  They delivered right to my door and I really needed a variety of sizes so it saved me having to hunt for boxes.  Of course, the kids just assumed I ordered a bunch of boxes for their playing pleasure.

The fort/house dd made today out of the new boxes. She was busy putting stickers on them tucked just outside of the picture

Today using boxes from the garage and recycle bin we made a post office.

First, I set up a small ‘drop off’ box.

Then, I made a slotted area to have mail and parcels sorted and picked up.

Parcels were made using small boxes from the recycle bin wrapped in used paper

My son used a bag to collect the letters and packages for delivery.  He used stickers for stamps and mail was delivered all over the house.

We used stationary envelopes and a really great felt envelope from Green Planet Parties which is always fun.

So much fun with simple cardboard!

What are some creative uses you’ve had for your recycled cardboard or boxes? Feel free to share your links in the comments!