Restyled Home

Irish-German Wedding Bells...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 12:30:00 +0000

Guess who was a co-flower girl?!

My brother got married last weekend to a beautiful, kind woman and I count myself lucky to have been there to share in the celebration. And what a celebration it was! With an Irish groom and a German bride, the wedding was the perfect blend of both heritages and cultures. My brother and his groomsmen wore kilts and the bride and her attendants wore dirndls. My new sister-in-law and her daughter, escorting her down the aisle:The floral arrangements were a lovely fresh mix of thistle and natural field flowers, and the wedding cake bore smart tartan trim.

We are so pleased to welcome my brother's new wife and her daughter into our big family. They are both wonderful additions and have brought a lot of joy to us all.

The wedding party...those that are related to me:

The newly blended family...and my little niece, Ella!

My brother and the flower girls (Sophie is at left):

My beautiful niece and mum:

My eldest brother and sister-in-law (and one of my best friends!):
My handsome brother and me:

My niece and the next generation of boys (missing three...):

There's another: my gorgeous nephew, Connor, the groom's son. Isn't he rocking that kilt?

Now we have a nice even number of grandaughters...strength in numbers!

My "little" brother, sister-in-law and my sister:

Father-daughter dancing with the handy man:

Guess who caught the bouquet?

...and mighty proud of it!

Speaking of the handy man: here he is with some of the other men in my life:

...with my Dad

...and my brothers and brother-in-law (on the end)

My sister, mum and me...I love those women!!

See, I told you we are a big family!!

Congratulations Harry and Christine!!

Storage...like no other

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 14:41:00 +0000

Storage. We all could use more of it, and would need less of it if we could only bite down and purge. Still for those of us who can't seem to make do with the storage space we have, yet seek stylish options to do so, here is a round-up of storage ideas that pack not only great functionality, but superb style in every cranny.

Stylish and creative concealment:

Awkward corner meets fabulous built-in:

Statuesque floor-to-ceiling catch-all...for those pesky pillows...

Bookshelves that not only store collectibles, but do double-duty as a headboard:

Bumped-out niches make for beautiful built-ins:

What is your best example of finding creative storage solutions in your own home?

Photo sources:

image one: Cottage Living.com
image two: House to Home.com

image three: Windsor Smith

image four: Country Home.com

image five: Rate My Space.com

Not your ordinary nursey...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 03:05:00 +0000

Have you ever seen anything sweeter? Forget bunny themes or Disney characters, why not push the limits when decorating your little one's nursery? Gone are the days when all we had to choose from were the matching crib sets laid out in the pages of the Sears catalogue. There is no better place to glean creative, modern inspiration when decorating a child's space than Ohdeedoh.

If you've never been, you should. Ohdeedoh is fun, and fun is good!!

I couldn't resist...

(above pics) photo source, Ohdeedoh.com

(above two pics) photo source, House to Home.com

Take a Bow Tuesday

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:01:00 +0000

It's that time again, and there's no need to waste time with words, so get your link button firing and go check out this week's round-up of great ideas to either inspire you, or as some would say, make you feel bad about all the unfinished projects you have on the go:

Now, I know many of you have seen Just a Girl's amazing mudroom makeover before, but just in case you haven't let it be my gift to you!! You know how I love a great mudroom!

Now, many of you know Melaine, at My Sweet Savannah. If not, you are missing out on a great blogger who is so dedicated she updates her blog at least once daily, often more. I bow down to her dedication and the inspiration you get there is always top drawer. Not only is her blog great, but her Etsy shop is sooo much fun. And she keeps that stocked plentifully, too!!

Remember my penchant for a retro fridge? Seems I'm not the only one, but I am not as enterprising as this blogger, Jane of Out of the Crayon Box. She hates her old fridge and is bound and determined to pretty it up! This is just one of the reincarnations of her fridge. Check out this timeline of changes, in her mission to get what she wants. Right now it is one giant chalkboard...so cool!! Jane, if we ever get our pretty blue retro fridges, we can celebrate together!!

I have shared my love for camping before, and pretty campers are right up there on my list of things I like to drool over. Well, if you are like me, get ready to drool: here is another beauty to peek into. I cannot describe how cute it is. Have a look-see for yourself!

It is things like this that set Mrs. Limestone apart from the pack. If I ever thought I made creative invites, well...that notion just went out the window! I refuse to berate myself, however, and simply remind myself that she has mad talent, and runs a stationery design business, too.

Check our these fantastic bachelor party invites she and her hubby designed and executed.

Your jaw will drop...

By the Pool Transformations...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 15:23:00 +0000

Remember this little treasure? Found at a real, bonafide junk spot? Well, look at it now, doing serious lifeguard duty:

The handyman was busy, too, building a changing area so wet feet don't have to track through my house. This is the before photo:

And the after:

Need to see it up close?

I made this little light holder, junk style, because I was trying to copy Ki and her infinite creativity:

Oh, and I gave a make-over to this little beach chair. It used to have Bratz fabric on it (ick!!) so I removed it and sewed up this striped Sunbrella fabric and painted the frame. I also picked up the vintage cooler for $10 at a thrift shop. It is my favourite shade of blue:

I will be unplugged for a few days while I enjoy some summer family time, and will return any emails as soon as I can. I want to thank everyone so much for the kind wishes and comments you gave me with regards to the new magazine. Ki, Matthew and I are overwhelmed and thrilled with the outpouring of support and excitement over this endeavour. Flea Market Style magazine will not fail to please, I can guarantee you that!! We will bring you more updates and answer any questions you have once the blog is up and running...we are aiming for mid-August.

Watch for it!!

On the Cover of a Magazine...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Well… not exactly, but I do have news that is so exciting I could pinch myself (if only I could find an inch…hah!).

Now, let’s make this clear: this is not news that affects just me, but also all of you – especially those of you who love the following:

a)vintage style

b) flea markets, thrift shops, occasional sales, salvage shops and yard sales

c) Matthew Mead and Ki Nassauer

d) magazines and

e) all of the above plus recognition for bloggers like you - finally recognized for the inspiration you so willingly share with your peers and the online community!

Without further adieu, I happily announce (as I squeal inside with excitement) the wonderful news that Matthew Mead and Ki Nassauer have pooled their incredible talents as style and junk experts, respectively, to produce and create a new magazine titled,

Flea Market Style – a 144 page newsstand magazine, chock full of vintage-style decorating, projects, collecting tips, special features and more - to be released in early spring, 2010. The magazine cover (at left) is a mock-up and the actual cover will be revealed when the magazine is released!

Now, normally this would be enough to send bubbles of anticipation through me (I love a great magazine), but here’s the icing on the cake for me: Ki and Matthew have invited me along for the incredible ride, and entrusted me in the role of Editor-at Large!! In fact, as I hinted, I will be in charge of bringing the point of view of the blogging community to the magazine and shining the spotlight on some incredibly talented bloggers, on-line shop owners, and Etsy artists. I will also be interviewing and featuring some of your favourite design celebrities to get their take on vintage/flea-market style and more. Matthew and Ki are also pleased to have the immeasurable talents of Heather Bullard on board as a contributor. Heather is a talented stylist and photographer whose work has been featured in a variety of publications, and many of you are familiar with both her beautiful blog and boutique.

Now, I will need someone to lean on for a second as I process this last detail: Matthew and Jenny Mead will be visiting yours truly this summer to photograph pockets of my home! I am beyond thrilled to not only be a part of such a wonderful magazine, but to be able to be a fly (probably a pretty pesky one) on the actual wall of a magazine photo shoot. It is almost more excitement than I can bear!! The only thing better would be if Ki could come along, too!!

Now, lest you think you will have a long wait until you hear more about this magazine, you should know me better. Matthew, Ki and I will be creating a new blog devoted to the making of Flea Market Style Magazine, where you will be invited to follow along on - via snippets of photo shoots, junking adventures, Ki’s Junk Bonanza, and the overall production process. I am so excited to be part of a magazine for home-owners who strive to decorate on a budget, using and repurposing items that are just waiting to be rediscovered and given new pride of place in their homes. I am also excited to fully engage this wonderful community of bloggers I have become part of and I hope you will follow us along on this exciting journey and feel a part of the finished product. We hope to have the blog up and running by mid-August, and we will let you know as soon as it happens.
Ki, Matthew and I truly hope you are as excited to have this new magazine hit newsstands as we are!

Check out their announcements here:

Matthew Mead's blog

Ki Nassauer’s Junk Camp and at Heather Bullard's blog.

Summertime...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:13:00 +0000

Busy day, lots to do, sun is out...finally! I thought I would just share some of my favourite summertime photos to remind ourselves that it really is summer!!

By the way, check back tomorrow for my big announcement!!

photo sources:

image one: my house

image two: Anthropologie.com

image three: Katrin Cargill.com

image four: Canadian Home and Country.com

Take a Bow Tuesday

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:57:00 +0000

It seems there an awful lot of creative folk here in Blogland. Don't you people ever rest??!!

Lucky for us, there is still a lot going on this summer. Maybe it's all this crazy rain that keeping us cooped in and thinking up projects.

With birthdays on my mind (my son's), here are a few party ideas and some other creative home projects for your enjoyment:

Check out Wendy's Lego party for her little boy. Sweet and simple, but oh so fun!

A fun (yes, fun!) tutorial about how to hang a chandelier. Kind of reminds me of my own chandelier hanging fella...

She's at it again! The lovely and talented Heather, over at Splaneyo doesn't let the fact that she has four kids (one being a new baby) stop her from creating some of the the most beautiful cakes

I've ever seen. Check out this beautiful 3-D lemon cake she made her mum for her birthday. Can you say, Cake Boss??!!

Speaking of parties, this fellow Maritime blogger (from Prince Edward Island) shares a beautiful tea party she had in her garden. Can you even imagine anything so pretty?

This blogger shares an easy, fun wall art idea, originally found on House and Home magazine's website. Check out the rest of her blog for some inspiring posts on decorating and more!

One last party link: Shannon has the most amazing party ideas blog I think I've ever seen. If you have kids, or just want to drool, head on over!!

Ladies, Take a Bow!!

A Rose, by any other name...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 22:43:00 +0000

Remember a while back when I revealed this wanton desire? How hot envy stabbed at my heart in a most unvirtuous way after seeing this veritable round-up of perfection? How could a girl not be envious? It seems everyone had one. Jen had one. Jerusalem had one. Heather`s was divine. Ki had a really cool one...of more ample proportions...a real renaissance girl. Margo showed hers off, bejewelled and lovely. It was more than I could bear.

The hunt was on.

Which was a bit of a joke, really, if you knew what I have to pick from for vintage shops and the like. Treasures like that don`t come `round these parts too easily.

But Rose had other ideas.

By the way, have you met Rose?

Yes. Rose found her way to me, ever so humbly, on my most recent trip to my favourite antique shop. I almost missed her. She was hiding in the dress-up corner of the shop, under a long, black coat. I rescued her. Yes, I did..for the sweet tune of $40.

It made my weekend, yes it did!!

Oh, and her name? Well, Rosie would be the name I would give to another daughter, if I lost my mind and decided to have another child (which I won`t!) Of course, Rose just fits better for my dress form. Now I have the perfect spot to display my large collection of vintage aprons.

Believe me, they look way better on Rose than me!!

International Flair, from me to you!

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 20:02:00 +0000

Coming off two international events, Canada Day and the Fourth of July, I thought it only fitting to pay tribute to some of the countries of my other readers. Now, I am the first to admit I don't know many dates of other countries birthdays, at least without thinking really hard - which I'm not always up for - but I did give it a thought this morning as I ate beans and toast (beans on toast), which is a popular meal from my mother country (Ireland). While I ate it, I thought of where I came from and what traditions and traits still remain with me, all these years later. It also got me to thinking about chip sandwiches, which my mother resorted to feeding us when she was low on groceries or just wanted to fill us with a quick, tasty supper. Now, chips in my house growing up weren't the same thing as chips in North American homes today. Chips were french fries, deep fried in a chip pan, which was really just a deep pot filled with fat that was heated and reheated again and again. Sounds a bit unappetizing, but let me assure you: when Mum served up a plate filled with crispy, salted french fries and some soft white bread, it didn't take us long to make a happy marriage of the chips, bread and a squirt or two of ketchup by wrapping them all up temptingly together. Yumm!! Crispy, salty, sweet...don't judge it till you try it. Unfortunately, I haven't had one since I was a child (we don't own a deep fryer or chip pan) but I keep threatening to break down and treat myself to a little taste of my childhood someday. For those hailing from England, a chip sandwich is more commonly called a chip butty.

In a nod to my German readers (and there are a few) I will soon be attending the wedding of my brother to his lovely German bride. She will be wearing a dirndl, and she has promised there will be hearty German fare served up hot and plentiful at the reception. And I will do my bit to partake in this most international of culinary feasts.

I draw the line at swigging German beer, though...

To my Aussie friends, all I can think of is how much I love your lovely accent, and how much more attractive your men seem because of it! Australia is somewhere I have never been, but if I ever win that lottery I talked about a few posts ago, I just might head down and see you!

I realized today that my outfit was quite patriotic to my American friends:

Red, white and blue, the white being my legs, of course...

Aren't my shoes cute? $5...what a steal!

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Watch for my big announcement by mid-week!

I cannot wait to share it with you!!

Happy Fourth!!

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 04:40:00 +0000

photo source: Country Living.com

Happy Fourth of July, to all of my American friends!! I hope you all enjoy a relaxing holiday, and fire off a few good firecrackers so even we Canadians can hear them!! I look forward to heading down that way myself later this month. The turnip truck will be filled to the brim!!

Oh, I'll tell you what I want, what I really, really want!!

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 01:00:00 +0000

Why do I always gravitate to song titles for my own post titles? Probably because I can never remember any of the lyrics to anything. But I can always remember that chorus!!

Anyway, this is a very light and fluffy post for you today, folks, as opposed to the deep and meaningful posts I usually write..hah!! Today, it's all about my shopping fantasies. Those are always fun to share. Basically, what I would do if I had bucket loads of money, access to great shops instead of aimlessly wandering the aisles of Walmart...

Ah well, here is my dream list of what I'd buy with a lottery win (after I did my bit to help solve the world's problems, of course). After all, if you consider what others would blow their money on, my list is quite tame!!

First up, a Big Chill (below), or if I wanted to remain loyal to my fellow Canadians, A North Star fridge.

Seriously, the thought of owning one of those beauties sends shivers of happiness up my neck! Now, in the real world, I could just buy me some of this cool spray paint - meant for painting your refrigerator really fun, retro colours. Does anyone know if they sell this in North America? Those Brits...they are so smart! They know the importance of having a pretty, coloured fridge!!

This photo of my dream camera is just taunting me with its realistic size portrayal. Maybe that's hoe they sell so many. The ad is just too good! I have fantasized about owning one of these beauties for as long as I have drooled over the great photos on some of my favourite blogs. Isn't it pretty? Go on, reach out and touch it. I can just imagine myself clicking away. Well, at least after I studied the manual for six months!!
Now, as much as I love and appreciate my little tent trailer, my upcoming trip to the U.S. would be sooo much more comfortable in this beauty:

photo source: Airstream.com

(If you'd like to see inside, go here).

I would also like these lights...yes please:

photo: Coastalliving.com

photo source: besweden.com

Because you know I love lighting. Honestly, if the handyman were more agreeable, I'd have him change out some of my lights every couple of years. Of course, if I were a lottery winner, I could pay someone else to do it, and the handyman and I could drink cocktails by the pool!

I wonder is this lady knows how lucky she is? I mean, not one, but four beautiful blue chairs to sit and read on? And that view?! If I have any money left over after my big shopping spree, I would recreate this idyllic setting in my own home. I wonder if she won the lottery?

photo source: Coastal Living.com

Because I don't even play the lotto (I just fantasize about winning it...go figure) this list will forever remain my dream list, won't it? Well, maybe someday the camera will be within reach. Won't you all be excited if that day comes, so you won't have to squint at my pathetic personal photos?!

And if you want to see over-the-top spending, check out this: A Big Chill in someones back porch??!! Now that is just showing off!! Frivolous decadent, over-indulgence, pure and simple!

photo source: Big Chill.com

Pfft...I'm not one bit envious!

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Now check out Julia's "Hooked On" party over at Hooked on Houses. It's quite a patriotic celebration over there!!

I am Canadian...Happy Canada Day!!

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 03:49:00 +0000

Although I began my life far across the ocean in Northern Ireland - and I am Irish, first and foremost - I definitely identify as a proud Canadian. I love that my country is a wide expanse of terrain that changes dramatically as you travel from east to west. Rich culture, diverse cities, prairies, staggering mountains, two oceans, the Niagara Falls, and the northern territories...a trip across the country is one I plan to take someday, and I look forward to acquainting myself with the beauty and wonder of this country I call home.

It may seem smug, but I think we can lay claim to some of the most talented singers (Celine Dion, Shania Twain, Bryan Adams, Nickelback, etc.), comedians (John Candy, Dan Aykroyd, Jim Carrey, Mike Myers) and designers (Debbie Travis, Candace Olsen, Sarah Richardson, Karim Rashid, Patricia Gray and more!) in the world. Like I said, I am proud to be Canadian, and when I sing our national anthem, I feel such a rush of that pride.

Canada Day, for us, always means fireworks, a parade, a few tattoos, outdoor games and a barbecue with all of the trimmings (thanks to well-organized and generous friends!). While the boys have outgrown their tolerance for donning a matching red, Canada Day t-shirt, Sophie is still game and wears the maple leaf with pride!

To my fellow Canadians - and as those of you south of the border head into your own Fourth of July celebrations - celebrate and enjoy what your country means to you. Fire up your barbecue and submit to a (temporary) patriotic tattoo or two. Fly those flags high and take a moment to reflect on what your country means to you.

Happy Canada Day, one and all!!

Take a Bow Tuesday

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 02:55:00 +0000

I don't mind saying I am struggling with this commitment thing. I am not a blogger who does well with an organized posting schedule. True to my nature, I am a bit of a fly-by-the-seat -of-my-pants kind of blogger. When a thought or post idea pops into my head, I start writing. Still, I am bound and determined to stick with my Tuesday feature of honouring my talented blogging friends.

And here is this week's edition:

The most lovely laundry room ever...and she's Canadian, too!
For those of you who love chalkboards, check out this fun alternative to labels. She also has the most amazing oil cloth products in cheery, Cath Kidston-style patterns!
Check out the Design Dazzle website, where you get limitless inspiration for kid's spaces and parities, including this mermaid party - which is perfect for this time of year!
You know how much I love camping and campers, especially vintage ones. Check out this lady's camper makeover...and she really likes pink!
This blogger has one of the prettiest collection of empty picture frames, and knows just what to do with them. Be prepared to drool!

Now, please go and visit these bloggers and enjoy the view!!

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Stay tuned till later in the week, when I announce some very exciting news. I'd love to hear any guesses...and no, there is absolutely no baby involved!!

Just Passing Through...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 03:00:00 +0000

While many of us focus our energy (and budget) on decorating the major living spaces of our homes, how many of us actually focus any attention on the hallways, corridors and foyers of our homes?Indeed, few of us are lucky enough to have large hallways that can be adorned with artwork on the walls and where children run carefree for more than a few feet. Still, the hallowed halls of our homes are the perfect spot for the following accessories and/or details:

Family photos

Collections, on shelves, in shadow boxes, or simply hung on the walls

A beautiful clock, to be glanced at as we hurry about our day

A gallery of our children's artwork, either framed or clipped causally onto dollar store clip boards

A great mirror to sneak a peak at our frazzled reflections as we rush out the door

A smart, stylish rug

Wallpaper, for those hesitant to "try it again for the first time" anywhere else:

A chalkboard wall, for those gutsier homeowners:

(photo: Wish magazine)

functional built-ins:

A mural, or other fun wall treatment (like this decal):

Architectural detailing, like this panel moulding:

Walls painted in bold, snappy stripes:

Or kept simple but highlighted by a fabulous lighting fixture:

So, as you walk down your hallway, don't just pass on by a great opportunity to decorate the passageways of your home. Look at them differently.

Because, as we all know, sometimes the journey can be so much better than the destination...

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(all photos, unless otherwise noted, from House to Home UK)

...and I am a Mother.

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:14:00 +0000

I have been thinking about my role as a mother lately. As I embrace the return of my children to my twenty-four hour care, I find myself not overwhelmed by them, but overwhelmed by the depth of my belonging to this role called mother. I have yet to feel the full effects of this thing called summer, but I am certainly feeling the finality of a series of endings.

Maybe it was the noticeable change in my youngest son's voice. Once husky and sweet, it is now hesitant and monotone, deeper, and not yet familiar. Perhaps it is the independent streak in my daughter, the baby, who still climbs up on my lap. yet skips away happily when another offer comes forth. More certainly, it is the transition of my eldest who is leaving behind junior high for the lofty heights of high school. The realization that I really love him as a person, has sent new fears to my heart that in three years time I will lose him, in the way that is expected, yet dreaded by mothers not ready to deliver their children to adulthood. As I watched him receive his diploma (a now common rite of passage from kindergarten to high school. apparently) and enjoyed the slide show of changes as the students travelled the path from grade seven to nine, I felt like bolting. I cannot explain it. As tall as his father, I don't feel ready to hand him over to this rapid transition. I remember feeling the same way on elementary registration day for my daughter: half annoyed that "these people" were dictating the submission of my youngest child. Preposterous really, when you think if it. Someone else is to be trusted with the children you had previously not let out of your sight?

The emotion ends full circle. I feel such a deep sense of gratitude that I have been entrusted in this role. I am so proud to wear the label, and honoured that these children love me back. I have always known it and felt this way, but somehow knowing that a season is closing in on me faster than I'd like sobers me, and makes me appreciate this gift I have been given.

This role, and these children, has and always will be my greatest gift.

One word of advice: the tough parts of parenting will ease, but the depth of your feelings will multiply until the day you die. Of this I am certain.

Appreciate your role.

Nautical By Nature...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 03:00:00 +0000

(all images, Coastal Living.com)

As I chill out to the drone of my newly re-installed air conditioner, I am led to thoughts about the importance of keeping cool in the summer. While this summer has been highly anticipated after the long snowy winter we had, one only has to suffer through a day or two of high humidity and temperatures to crave cool breezes and/or a refreshing dip. While my pool is a bit too cool for me to take a dip just yet, I have done plenty of life-guarding for my more hardy offspring.

As I sat on the lounge chair today - sweat trickling down my lip and hair growing frizzier by the second - I tried to distract myself from my raging inner thermostat by planning how I can pretty up my pool deck. Things are almost complete on the little change house/area the handyman built, the flowers have been planted in their pots, and I have picked up some nautical accessories from my local vintage store. Still, I am pining for a more beachy feel, cooler colours and snappy style.

Basically, I am craving a little bit of this:

nautical done well,

and pretty on the inside and out!

If the threat of rain and the incessant humidity ever subsides, I will finish up my projects and share them with you. Stay cool!!

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Head on over to Julia's Hooked on Fridays event for more creative ideas from your favourite bloggers (and some sure to become favourites!).

Take a Bow Tuesday

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 02:16:00 +0000

It's that time again. My weekly round-up of great finds I've come across on some really great blogs. Honestly, I could list one hundred things, but instead I pop them all into my feature file to share with you all in due time.

Be sure to check out the following bloggers:

Holly and her yummy "ice cream cone treat", perfect for celebrating that last day of school a summer birthday party, or just a really great summer's day that deserves a special nod!

City Farmer is one of my favourites. This lady can repurpose furniture like nobody's business, but check out this patio umbrella makeover. Honestly, where do you ladies come up with this stuff??

The Design Ties ladies have done what is arguably the best post featuring my very favourite colour of all times: turquoise (in all its intensities). If you share this colour passion, you must head on over there!! Oh, and did I mention they are Canadian, like me?

Now, you all know Eddie...Eddie Ross, that is. Well, this design superstar be stilled my heart with his fabulous makeover of some Salvation Army finds, using some great retro-inspired fabric. Not fair: my local Salvation Army doesn't carry finds like the chairs Eddie transformed!!

Sweet Aimee, who just had a new baby, somehow finds the time to keep her home beautiful and come up with some great decorating projects. Despite this, you really will like her, and her inventive way to re-use an old window to solve a curb appeal problem.

Now, take a bow, ladies (oops, and Eddie!)!!

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If you like give-aways, head on over to my friend P.J's for a great one.

She is giving away a $50 "e" gift certificate to Amazon.com. Starting Wednesday, June 24th, she will be posting her usual "What's Up For Wednesday". This time it will be called "You Write The Caption." She will post a photo and, to be entered in the drawing, all you need to do is post a caption.

Anyone interested in entering has until midnight Sunday 6/28. The winner's will be drawn on Monday, 6/29.

Now, all you have to do is enter!!

Vacation or Staycation?

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 02:32:00 +0000

photo source: Country Living.com

There seems to be a whole lot of catch phrases rolling around the tongues of magazines and blogs these days. Upcycling, Repurposing, and more! A favourite of mine is the totally "new" concept of Staycations. When I was young, it simply meant you weren't lucky enough to go on a real vacation (and we didn't). Nowadays, it is a socially acceptable practice that centers around exploring ones own town/city/ province/state in day trip form and/or tricking out your "outdoor space" to coax you into wanting to stay put. Harried mothers, desperate to entertain their children and keep to their budgets (it is a total fallacy that summer is less expensive than winter), comb though their local tourist guides and newspapers, searching for fun and entertaining destinations close to home.

Jumping waves with family...free!

Things like collecting seashells and munching on picnic lunches at the beach to painting the sidewalk with a bucket filled with water are making their way onto many to-do lists. Trips to the zoo and drive-in movies are glamourized by mums like me and indoor rock climbing excursions seem almost affordable when compared to the luxury of renting a cottage by the sea for a week.

Tubing outside of Fredericton, N.B.

$10/person...I think!

Many are also looking to their back yards to corral their families and friends with promises of excitement. Many parents have upped the ante and added a trampoline and/or pool to the backyard landscape.

photo source: Coastal Living.com

Hot tubs, outdoor fire pits, badminton nets, outdoor kitchens offer up a resort-like atmosphere for those lucky enough to afford it. Gone are the days of plastic lawn chairs, picnic tables and metal swing sets. Families used to plush comforts at home are even turning up their noses at the ever affordable camping, especially in a tent . Of course, camping in our day didn't require deep pockets for theme parks, either.

I, myself, have fallen victim (happily) to the staycation concept. Although we have a camping trip to the states planned, we have added the above-ground pool and fire bowl as a way of keeping the kids happy throughout the summer months.

photo source: Toast.uk

Luckily, we also have the most spectacular beaches nearby so day trips really can be almost free (save for a few popsicles and a picnic lunch!). While our tent-trailer offers the opportunity for quick and affordable lodging when travelling, the cost of gasoline, snacks, and entertainment when on the road does not really make it as affordable as some would have you believe. Indeed, I honestly don't know how some afford to pack up the camper and family and go away every weekend!

What about you? What approach do you take to summer? Do you travel, rent cottages, or simply be tourists in your own town? Have you decked out your backyard spaces with all the trappings of rest and relaxation, so you can vacation at home?

Will you vacation or staycation?

Run Daddy, Run!!

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:25:00 +0000

Remember last year, when I ran what felt like a marathon, but was actually just 5K (~3 miles)? Well, that time rolled around again today, and my boys all laced up their sneakers and ran their part. Our two sons ran the 5k student challenge (in 22 and 23 minutes, respectively), and the handyman ran the half marathon...his idea of a great Father's Day (go figure...).

Did I run?

Well, no.

The reasons? You decide:

a) an injury sustained during training?

b) heel trauma induced by a cheapskate pedicure?

c) someone had to cheer on the runners (in the rain, no less).

d) somebody has barely run since last year, and can now barely run the length of herself...

The answer is d), but if I had planned to run, all of the above would have provided the perfect excuse to change my mind!!

Now, you all can make the shape of and L, and put it to your foreheads in my honour.

Really, I don't mind...

Don't you wish your girlfriend was dumb like me?

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 01:54:00 +0000

photo source: flickr.com

Have you ever gone through a dumb spell? I guess technically I'm not dumb: I have my nursing degree (some would say I'm dumb not to use it anymore) and was the official Queen Bee if my elementary school spelling bees (that's sayin' something).

But I can be dim at times.

Growing up, I was always pretty happy-go-lucky: in my own little world, you might say. My sister would always say I was academically smart, but a bit flighty in most other situations. Always clumsy, I could break anything that wasn't tied down, trip over invisible obstacles, and never clued in to what was going on. Always gullible, it wasn't difficult to pull the wool over my eyes.

A bit sharper as an adult, I seem to be suffering a bit of a relapse this week. Although I chalk it up to too much on my mind, I have done some dumb things this week. Always wanting to share in the lessons learned from my mistakes, I offer up the following advice:

Don't mow grass while wearing flip-flops. While you might be thinking I amputated a toe or something, that would at least elicit sympathy. No, I have been simply left with grass-green feet, which despite soaking them everyday, still remain...one week later!! Not very pretty!! I would not be good with those foot fetish fellas...

Don't be so cheap that you attempt your own pedicures. Now I'll be honest; I have never had a pedicure (or manicure). Like I said, I am cheap in many ways, so it was with real excitement that I saw an at-home pedicure kit (on sale, no less). Well, several "treatments" later, with what looked like a cheese grater (no, I didn't clue in at that point), in the hopes of restoring baby soft skin on my heels, and I am in pain. Like, cannot weight-bear on either foot pain. I hobble around like a senior citizen with a broken hip, yelping in pain with each step. Sure, I have pink soft heels, but only because I grated off the first two layers of skin.

But guess what? The soles of my feet are still green!!!

Don't fuel your car when you are half asleep. Because I stay up too late and have allergies, some mornings I wake up needing toothpicks to hold open my eyelids. The other day was one of those times. I took the boys to school and realized that I was literally driving on fumes (I always forget to check the gauge). I fueled up, hopped back into my car, and was thisclose to driving away. Oh, and a police car was parked in the lot of gas station. I screeched to a halt, hopped out and paid, trying to look all cool, like I meant to do it. Which, considering the proximity of the policeman, was probably really dumb...!

**At least I wasn't wearing my p.j.'s. Because I have been known to drive my boys to school that way - which you just know is a disaster waiting to happen!!

Anyway, throw in a few forgotten /mixed up appointments for myself and the kids and you have the makings of my week. Like the saying goes, "Stupid is as stupid does"

Great quote, but I have always been clueless as to what that means!!

Take a Bow Tuesdays

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 02:59:00 +0000

By the skin of my teeth, I got this post up before the clock struck midnight and it was Tuesday no more. As you can see, I am having difficulty sticking to my new schedule. I don't know how some bloggers have planned posts for each day of the week. I find it hard to commit to one!

Well, moving on, here is my weekly round-up and all things great in Blogland:

This blogger had me green with envy at her incredible find...and at a price even I could afford!!

Over at This Young House, I got the kick in the pants that I needed to get me inspired to rip open the box on my newest purchase...only they were purchased over a month ago! I seem to be very good at dilly-dallying lately, but after reading this post, I am thoroughly motivated to apply mine to some eager wall in my home. Now to go clear said wall, because you know I haven't really left a wall empty in my home...

Now, seeing as I posted about my playhouse, why not continue along the same vein and show you this awesome tutorial: how to make your own play kitchen. Even better is that hers is pink. Yours could be, too! Oh, and check out her blog, too, if you haven't already!

Now I know you have all probably seen this nugget of goodness, but if not, go check out Chris' new lockers. Being the Mudroom Locker Queen (I crowned myself that after I realized it was the number one Google search that brought newbies to my blog). Don't believe me? Just Google it yourself: mudroom lockers, I pop up at number one!

I take pride in small achievements.

But I digress...

Last but not least,

This blog just makes me laugh, nod my head, and makes me feel like I am normal when I am not wearing my rose-coloured glasses. Because after all, my faourite blogs are those with really great writing, chock full of humour and reality. Check her out.

Oh, and she makes really beautiful cakes!

There, I did it! I stuck to my Tuesday timetable. Don't forget to check out Matthew Mead's new summer website, and enter his give-away contest here.

A Little Landscaping...

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:06:00 +0000

Have I mentioned before that my yard is small? Of course, it doesn't help that we used up much of our back garden for our pool (above ground) area. So, adding charm to a geographically challenged area is a challenge in itself.

Sophie planted her own windowbox and vintage baby buggy

You have all seen the playhouse before. While it is complete on the inside, I am slowly, but surely, landscaping around it - attempting to surround it with a cottage-garden feel - as every playhouse deserves. Because our pool deck abuts it, it makes for a pretty barren landscape, indeed. My humble attempt to trick the eye into believing there is more than just deck boards as its vista, led me to do try a little Trompe L'oeuil of my own. Of course, because I am no artist, there was no paint involved...

Here is the before:

And after adding a grapevine garland, a door handle, knocker and some left over lighting from a former reno:

I know, it's not perfect, but it's all I could come up with!

Here is the playhouse with the little bit of landscaping I have done thus far. I still need to add a climber to that trellis, and a little flower bed filled with farm-girl favourites like daisies, cosmos, Sweet William and more. Literally, where that chair sits is basically where my garden ends.

It. is. tiny.

I did finally manage to get my planters filled. I can't wait until they fill in and get lush. I love daisies, so they fill most every container I own. I'll take a daisy over a rose any day...

Which is basically a perfect metaphor for me: more common daisy than elegant rose!!

********************************************

In other news:

I am happy to report that the flip house is sold!! It was listed on a Friday, and sold by that Monday!!

Woohoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

***************************

And for those who are wondering, I will post my Take a Bow Tuesday feature at 11:59 pm tonight. I may be squeaking it in under the wire, but it will still be Tuesday!!

Summer Lovin'...with Matthew Mead

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 03:00:00 +0000

Matthew Mead is kicking off summer in style!

As many of you who visit his beautiful website know, Matthew refreshes its content with the seasons. Well guess what? Matthew Mead has declared summer is here and it is time to start enjoying the season and all its bounty. From flowers to food, collecting to crafting, Matthew has put a delicious spin on that which tantalizes our senses. From the sweet tang of a blackberry as it pops in one's mouth to the succulent juices of the plump peaches he fills pies and tarts with, every recipe Matthew has shared with his readers leaves us wanting more. Heeding our call, Matthew has revamped the way he delivers the inspiration we seek. For those of us missing his monthly presence in (the former) Country Home, Matthew's new online magazine, found at Matthew Mead Style, is the perfect way to get our style fix. To preview the magazine, head on over; and if you want to see the entire e-zine - and ensure permanent access to all of the many crafting, collecting, cooking, downloads and decorating ideas Matthew shares - opt for a membership to his site, which you can find more information about here. Don't forget Matthew also has a blog where he shares updates on his busy life, work, and projects.

Matthew also want you to know that he is hosting another give-away, where you can win one of ten three-month memberships to his site! According to Matthew, to enter all you have to do is head over to his blog and leave a comment "describing your favorite summer recipe made with the berry featured on page six of the free summer preview and you can WIN. In addition to the membership, one lucky winner will also win a vintage piece of purple transferware selected by me" ...Matthew Mead

Take it from me, a membership to Matthew Mead Style is worth every penny! So head on over and check out what all the fuss is about... and enter the contest. You can tell Matthew I sent you!

What you Gonna Do with all that Junk?

linda@restyledhome.ca (Restyled Home) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 03:00:00 +0000

Don't you just hate that song? Still, it is very fitting for me as I look around at my latest purchases. I have found that I have very little interest in what is in the shops lately, so I have been checking out my favourite junking/thrifting haunts. I love all things vintage, as many of you know, and while I am not in the leagues of those who transform junk as an art form, I do enjoy wielding a can of spray paint in the name of repurposing.

When on a consulting job recently, I found myself on a back road as my route home. I had heard about a true junking spot, where only the die-hards could see gold in the pile of real junk. Being one of those die-hards, I spotted my newest project as soon as I pulled up and scanned the piles...
What do you think I found?
Have you spotted it yet?

A quick trip to the paint store for a can of my favourite blue spray paint, a little fume inhalation, and it (my new stool, below)will be ready for your approval (hopefully). I have the perfect spot for this beauty, and I can't wait to set it in place. I have always yearned for those fun, aluminum stools that you see everywhere...the perfect example of cool retro. Now, I have the next best thing!

If it doesn't rain today you will find me adding yet another colour to my gravel driveway, which will be gone soon, I am happy to report. The only downside? I will have to find a new spot on which to transform my version of junk!

Stay tuned...!