tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64923635258006831572024-03-13T13:05:48.375-04:00cottage instinctscindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.comBlogger489125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-10900896530129571052016-09-12T19:10:00.003-04:002016-09-12T19:10:40.759-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hello Friends!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just popping in with some exciting NEWS</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and some pretty pics :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am now regularly blogging on my new site</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.acottagegirl.com/">www.acottagegirl.com</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Same gal, same decor shenanigans,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
new site!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hope you'll head over and join me there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s45m4E32vmU/V9c0tOp8MlI/AAAAAAAA_oA/Dg9WLJblRwAsO2NJy7kahSMgW2TDhqJ7wCLcB/s1600/IMG_5209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s45m4E32vmU/V9c0tOp8MlI/AAAAAAAA_oA/Dg9WLJblRwAsO2NJy7kahSMgW2TDhqJ7wCLcB/s640/IMG_5209.jpg" width="513" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-21787926783302770352015-06-20T16:58:00.000-04:002016-09-12T19:19:51.560-04:00::Going Mirrorless::<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
PSSSST...I'm no longer blogging here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can now find me at</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.acottagegirl.com/">www.acottagegirl.com</a></span></div>
<div>
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
<br />
Ready for some happy photography bits? Your wish is my command :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ADxA3LCNmJg/VYRNjjaDJSI/AAAAAAAA7H0/EUfmB3koORU/s1600/Olympus9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ADxA3LCNmJg/VYRNjjaDJSI/AAAAAAAA7H0/EUfmB3koORU/s640/Olympus9.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
In January, I sold my Canon Rebel T3i. I wasn't blogging anymore, and my iPhone 6 seemed fine for quick snapshots. My big girl camera just sat gathering dust.<br />
<br />
Then came our family trip in February to Disney, and I was uber disappointed in our photos....11 iPhones and nary a decent capture of Robyn meeting the princesses, of Walter hugging Tigger, or of the food (always the food). I kinda missed that 'ole Canon, but I knew I prolly wouldn't have wanted to drag it around the parks either.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PBFrNsGv1UM/VYRMa5RneBI/AAAAAAAA7Hk/2JQSVzFNHFM/s1600/elsa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PBFrNsGv1UM/VYRMa5RneBI/AAAAAAAA7Hk/2JQSVzFNHFM/s640/elsa.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
(taken from hubs' iPhone 6. Even editing didn't help much, even though Robyn is adorbs)<br />
<br />
As I began to consider firing up the blog again, I knew I'd need a new camera, but DREADED another big, bulky, pricey DSLR. I looked into some top-of-the-line point and shoots, but I really wanted that artistic control you get in a manual setting...fiddling with aperture and shutterspeeds and ISOs and lenses....(don't I sound like I know what I'm talking about?)<br />
<br />
Unbeknownst to me, there was a new player on the photography field, and tons of professional shooters are switching over. That was enough for me to go check 'em out....but there weren't many to check out locally. In fact I had to hit the only camera shop in town to get my hands on the specific model I was interested in trying. Curious what the heckola I'm talking about?<br />
<br />
Bam.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KX6afDENvoY/VYNC0R5XfWI/AAAAAAAA7Fc/_wrKM8rgbEU/s1600/olympus4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KX6afDENvoY/VYNC0R5XfWI/AAAAAAAA7Fc/_wrKM8rgbEU/s640/olympus4.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
Meet my new bestie. A Micro Four Thirds camera. No mirror in this baby (hence my title of going 'mirrorless', although I'm seriously considering going mirrorless in my house too...*rolling eyes*). Lightweight and tiny, it fits in your hand AND purse....as in, it's the same size as a point and shoot without a lens attached. See how small it is with out it?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YpOXX_ttV-c/VYNCk3JpLHI/AAAAAAAA7FU/f3njWGoGRzg/s1600/olympus2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YpOXX_ttV-c/VYNCk3JpLHI/AAAAAAAA7FU/f3njWGoGRzg/s640/olympus2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Don't ask me about how it captures the same quality as a DSLR, but it does. Do a search on youtube and you'll be set for the afternoon. Pour yourself a drink.<br />
<br />
Here's the best part. $300 new. With a really nice kit lens. NEW. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ADxA3LCNmJg/VYRNjjaDJSI/AAAAAAAA7H0/EUfmB3koORU/s1600/Olympus9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ADxA3LCNmJg/VYRNjjaDJSI/AAAAAAAA7H0/EUfmB3koORU/s640/Olympus9.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
After reading about all the brands, I went with the Olympus EPL6 (Penlite). BTW, Nikon and Canon are slow-comers to the Micro Four Thirds scene due to the popularity of their DSLRs, but many say Micro Four Thirds are the wave of the future and they're missing the boat BIG TIME. Hence their offerings in this segment lag WAY behind the leaders.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iqvWIdzIY0M/VYNA5S6_0qI/AAAAAAAA7E4/ZF94nVCvtjg/s1600/olympus1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iqvWIdzIY0M/VYNA5S6_0qI/AAAAAAAA7E4/ZF94nVCvtjg/s640/olympus1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
You can see in the picture above, it has all the same kind of settings as your standard DSLR, and mine comes with a dandy touch screen you can use to control settings as well as actually shooting. It tilts out and up and down and I love that I can move it perpendicular to the camera and look down at the screen instead of actually getting on my hands and knees to snap a pic of my cute dog. I hold the camera at his level, and just look down into the screen to frame my shot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M6TxZN2Labo/VYNCdInwjBI/AAAAAAAA7FM/Y1ERK4H-Wtw/s1600/Olympus3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M6TxZN2Labo/VYNCdInwjBI/AAAAAAAA7FM/Y1ERK4H-Wtw/s640/Olympus3.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
(my thumb is blocking the menu dial and such....)<br />
<br />
Ok, here's my favorite part. Everyone knows the camera body is the least costly part, right? Well, I learned you can purchase adapters and use old lens from the film days with them....and they'll cost you a SONG. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8hkCJ0V3kg/VYNDjP8ht_I/AAAAAAAA7F4/PIjJNTJtMQU/s1600/olympus7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8hkCJ0V3kg/VYNDjP8ht_I/AAAAAAAA7F4/PIjJNTJtMQU/s640/olympus7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I bought an adapter and an old 50mm prime lens made for a film camera for less than $45 (ebay, folks). WHAT? I know. Very fun possibilities just opened up for you, right? Here's the deal, though. You'll be doing your shots in manual....as in you manually twist the dials on the lens to the proper aperture AND manually focus (see pic below). Because it's not electronically connected to the camera, you lose those two settings. Shutterspeed and ISO are controlled on the camera body as usual.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C6hcOLU2TJ4/VYNFB4UtjXI/AAAAAAAA7GE/-ehY3J62ne0/s1600/olympus5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C6hcOLU2TJ4/VYNFB4UtjXI/AAAAAAAA7GE/-ehY3J62ne0/s640/olympus5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"> Also, a 50mm lens on a Micro Four Thirds is the rough equivalent to a 25mm lens... so there are some differences in using older lenses. Be prepared for a bit of a learning curve to using these older lenses. I should also mention that a 'real' Olympus 25mm lens for this camera runs about 500 smackaroos....that's why I looked into adapters and such. If anyone is interested I can post my favorite youtube tutes that chat about all this stuff :)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm still learning how it all works, and re-learning how to use the settings best. I'm still shooting mostly in auto when dealing with the grandies, so I thought I'd show you some pics I took with it in that auto mode with the kit lens.....with minimal tweaks in picmonkey :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I give you WALTER WYN--15 months of AWESOME:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f0rpvAUl4ak/VYNFuXxkghI/AAAAAAAA7GU/oGPv5BHlhtg/s1600/WalterWyn1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f0rpvAUl4ak/VYNFuXxkghI/AAAAAAAA7GU/oGPv5BHlhtg/s640/WalterWyn1.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bjiLZ8tkqYg/VYNFuW8UR0I/AAAAAAAA7GM/P3CNFzY66sw/s1600/WalterWyn2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bjiLZ8tkqYg/VYNFuW8UR0I/AAAAAAAA7GM/P3CNFzY66sw/s640/WalterWyn2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SS1YlaDIb4A/VYNFuc_EzxI/AAAAAAAA7GQ/7PkO353Bxj4/s1600/walterwyn3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SS1YlaDIb4A/VYNFuc_EzxI/AAAAAAAA7GQ/7PkO353Bxj4/s640/walterwyn3.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
And ROBYN ROSE--3 years of making my world go 'round:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NFxUvJjAcaM/VYNGRLY6l2I/AAAAAAAA7Go/LJPnWCETEEo/s1600/RobynRose1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NFxUvJjAcaM/VYNGRLY6l2I/AAAAAAAA7Go/LJPnWCETEEo/s640/RobynRose1.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wlsHoLwCtVM/VYNGRNvGpsI/AAAAAAAA7Gs/d8cDnT6ro2Q/s1600/RobynRose2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wlsHoLwCtVM/VYNGRNvGpsI/AAAAAAAA7Gs/d8cDnT6ro2Q/s640/RobynRose2.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FpRm7cO3MY0/VYNGRHWBA6I/AAAAAAAA7Gk/EU_jpvUeB-w/s1600/RobynRose3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FpRm7cO3MY0/VYNGRHWBA6I/AAAAAAAA7Gk/EU_jpvUeB-w/s640/RobynRose3.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So have I convinced you yet to ditch that bulky DSLR? Or at least go have a look-see at these marvelous little Micro Four Thirds?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ready for svelte and reasonably priced without giving up the quality?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I know I'll never look back!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As I use it more, I'll post other tips and tricks I'm learning. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nunaM4_zSoA/VYNDjHZvc_I/AAAAAAAA7F8/Q-S8XvalTLo/s1600/olympus6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nunaM4_zSoA/VYNDjHZvc_I/AAAAAAAA7F8/Q-S8XvalTLo/s640/olympus6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
okaybye,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
cindy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-15221480504833746572014-04-17T06:37:00.001-04:002016-09-12T19:21:50.534-04:00::Fireplace Before and After::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
PSSSST...I'm no longer blogging here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can now find me at</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.acottagegirl.com/">www.acottagegirl.com</a></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XktbsoPt6dw/U0-k0M93owI/AAAAAAAAg5Q/Wuht84terKE/s1600/IMG_7681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XktbsoPt6dw/U0-k0M93owI/AAAAAAAAg5Q/Wuht84terKE/s1600/IMG_7681.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well, y'all know I have <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2013/04/about-that-fireplace.html">a thing about fireplaces and mantels</a>, yeah?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's the before....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-doaU9NvCa5s/U0-k0nmwBiI/AAAAAAAAg5k/qbmjgod9IpM/s1600/fpbefore3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-doaU9NvCa5s/U0-k0nmwBiI/AAAAAAAAg5k/qbmjgod9IpM/s1600/fpbefore3.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'd been itching to work on the new house's fireplace/mantel since moving in. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had some wishy-washy ideas that began to solidify when a dear friend gave me this piece of scrap pallet wood...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1cjRKt5kPY/U0-kzxmAYqI/AAAAAAAAg5M/VbzlU7c8pW4/s1600/fpbefore1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1cjRKt5kPY/U0-kzxmAYqI/AAAAAAAAg5M/VbzlU7c8pW4/s1600/fpbefore1.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At which point I started obsessing about paint colors.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When we were deciding on finishes, it was cost-prohibitive to carry the stone all the way up to the peak....so I always intended to do some sort of 'treatment' to blend the drywalled part with the stone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XwOPfvgIi6w/U0-k05qLYaI/AAAAAAAAg5s/4w34kte9xtE/s1600/fpbefore4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XwOPfvgIi6w/U0-k05qLYaI/AAAAAAAAg5s/4w34kte9xtE/s1600/fpbefore4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I started by finding a swatch of colors from Sherwin Williams that blended well with the colors on my stone...which happen to have both pink and yellow undertones....which I happened to learn thru this process don't really play nicely with eachother. It took me no less than 10 samples to get the right shade....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This shows one of the first oopsies at the top.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I won't show you the 8 other shades of 'bandaid' I tried.....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7rvQvW7L8H0/U0-k0djjLHI/AAAAAAAAg5w/vwTTWHK0s_4/s1600/fpbefore2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7rvQvW7L8H0/U0-k0djjLHI/AAAAAAAAg5w/vwTTWHK0s_4/s1600/fpbefore2.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The one that made the room sing ended up being <b>Interactive Cream</b>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
BAM.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U120x7EbQbY/U0-kz7o4PKI/AAAAAAAAg5U/wTKYwDrSld8/s1600/IMG_7666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U120x7EbQbY/U0-kz7o4PKI/AAAAAAAAg5U/wTKYwDrSld8/s1600/IMG_7666.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I painted the pallet piece with left over wall paint (Glidden's Antique White), and heavily distressed it with my palm sander. Hubs used 4 ginormous screws to attach it to the wall.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4ctprG1Puk/U0-lmoWYmxI/AAAAAAAAg6o/hRaLzznFAGo/s1600/IMG_7670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4ctprG1Puk/U0-lmoWYmxI/AAAAAAAAg6o/hRaLzznFAGo/s1600/IMG_7670.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4vuMXiNGBE/U0-lkOXc7jI/AAAAAAAAg6E/0fVyS8iiwo0/s1600/IMG_7673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4vuMXiNGBE/U0-lkOXc7jI/AAAAAAAAg6E/0fVyS8iiwo0/s1600/IMG_7673.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sewed up some wispy panels with poor-man's linen....osnaburg muslin.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
20 yards at $3/yd using my 50% off coupon at JoAnns. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TflWsq-11RU/U0-po74PywI/AAAAAAAAg64/I6dJ6b5cYXA/s1600/IMG_7698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TflWsq-11RU/U0-po74PywI/AAAAAAAAg64/I6dJ6b5cYXA/s1600/IMG_7698.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They're not hemmed yet, and I think I'm gonna do some bishop sleeves.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Instead of fiddling with a DIY corner rod, I just used those good old fashioned metal rods that cost like $3 each. No finials or anything. Lowe's had 'em in oil rubbed bronze.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Score. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z55sFyOISCY/U0-p06W77wI/AAAAAAAAg7A/czFLHeB7Oqs/s1600/IMG_7695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z55sFyOISCY/U0-p06W77wI/AAAAAAAAg7A/czFLHeB7Oqs/s1600/IMG_7695.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
See how nicely they meet in the corner?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Total cost for dressing my three super large windows...$75.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They really helped pull the room together, bringing the fireplace to the center.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uukpEPU59yg/U0-lk-2U0NI/AAAAAAAAg6U/zz_Hzo2PIWI/s1600/IMG_7679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uukpEPU59yg/U0-lk-2U0NI/AAAAAAAAg6U/zz_Hzo2PIWI/s1600/IMG_7679.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had originally thought I'd plank the drywall above the stone, but when serendipity strikes, you grab it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The cast-off pallet wood works perfectly.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7mk3HXGNfg/U0-llfVj-ZI/AAAAAAAAg6g/wuZPcPgVIHo/s1600/IMG_7682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7mk3HXGNfg/U0-llfVj-ZI/AAAAAAAAg6g/wuZPcPgVIHo/s1600/IMG_7682.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love the rustic texture....as I was sanding, it brought out the yellow undertones in the white paint....hard to see, but trust me, it looks awesome.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oFoaACgViS4/U0-llxncYsI/AAAAAAAAg6s/7Yj7GDgGtGU/s1600/IMG_7703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oFoaACgViS4/U0-llxncYsI/AAAAAAAAg6s/7Yj7GDgGtGU/s1600/IMG_7703.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My great room is finally coming together....it's not a large room, but with the massive windows and vaulted ceiling, everything felt a bit lost. Adding some color and texture has helped it feel warm and welcoming. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbO5LYDPeEc/U0-llBLuv8I/AAAAAAAAg6c/wlmhbKMXQ40/s1600/IMG_7680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbO5LYDPeEc/U0-llBLuv8I/AAAAAAAAg6c/wlmhbKMXQ40/s1600/IMG_7680.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'll share some other things I did in the room next post. Of course it's not done yet (as if it ever gets 'done'). I hope to add planking and beams to the ceiling eventually, and I'm considering painting the white walls a neutral called 'Biscuit', which happens to be the lightest shade on that strip from Sherwin Williams. I'm hording lighting ideas, including some sconces or lanterns for either side of the rustic wood board. The small rattan uplights from Target up there currently look awesome turned on at night, but look dinky during the day. And I have some more sewing to do to tie in the green chairs to the scheme.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy for now :) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8GoOm9n3wko/U0-lkCvcljI/AAAAAAAAg58/32HA5aLwAe4/s1600/IMG_7668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8GoOm9n3wko/U0-lkCvcljI/AAAAAAAAg58/32HA5aLwAe4/s1600/IMG_7668.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm almost done with the master re-do as well. I'll be showing off the new paint color, sewing projects, headboard building, and decor soon!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So what do ya think? Improvement?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Think I'm nutso for putting a huge piece of scrap wood on my mantel?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-57cRo1eqOYg/U0-tC8T4reI/AAAAAAAAg7M/2LsSfn6PUUw/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-57cRo1eqOYg/U0-tC8T4reI/AAAAAAAAg7M/2LsSfn6PUUw/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hauling my Fireplace/Mantel here:<br />
<a href="http://www.thistlewoodfarms.com/coffee-crate-organizers">Junkers United</a>, <a href="http://bec4-beyondthepicketfence.blogspot.com/2014/04/under-100-link-party_16.html">Under $100 Linky</a>, <a href="http://cityfarmhouse.com/2014/04/makeover-madness-project-tutorial-linky-party-hosted-better-homes-gardens.html">Makeover Madness Link Party</a>, <a href="http://shabbyartboutique.com/2014/04/shabbilicious-friday-link-party-45.html">Shabbilicious Friday</a>, <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2014/04/feathered-nest-friday_17.html">Feathered Nest Friday,</a> <a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2014/04/be-inspired-185.html">Be Inspired,</a> <a href="http://www.redouxinteriors.com/2014/04/thebest-linky-party-150-features/">Best Linky Party,</a> <a href="http://www.jenniferrizzo.com/2014/04/fab-creative-friday-linky-party.html">Fab Creative Friday Linky,</a> <a href="http://www.thededicatedhouse.com/2014/04/before-and-after-wednesday-week-13.html">Before and After Wednesday,</a> <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.com/2014/04/catch-as-catch-can-160.html">Catch as Catch Can,</a> <a href="http://www.craftberrybush.com/2014/04/the-inspiration-gallery_17.html">The Inspiration Gallery,</a><a href="http://www.thecottagemarket.com/2014/04/diy-projects-junkin-joe-april-18-2014.html"> Junkin' Joe</a>, <a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2014/04/18/diy-party-10/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:">That DIY Party</a>, <a href="http://modvintagelife.blogspot.com/2014/04/mod-mix-monday-149.html">Mod Mix, Monday,</a> <a href="http://www.domestically-speaking.com/2014/04/inspire-monday-4.html">Inspire Me Monday,</a> <a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2014/04/213th-inspire-me-tuesday.html">Inspire Me Tuesday,</a> <a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/2014/04/the-scoop-115.html">The Scoop</a>, <a href="http://knickoftimeinteriors.blogspot.com/2014/04/knick-of-time-tuesday-133-vintage.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:">Knick of Time Tuesday,</a> <a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/2014/04/nifty-thrifty-tuesday-no209.html">Nifty Thrifty Tuesday</a>, <a href="http://www.greenwillowpond.com/2014/04/what-we-accomplished-wednesday-51.html">What We Accomplished Wednesday,</a> <a href="http://elizabethandco.blogspot.com/2014/04/be-inspired-features-and-link-party-115.html">Be Inspired Linky,</a> <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2014/04/fireplace-before-and-after.html">Twirl and Take a Bow</a>, <a href="http://www.timewashed.com/2014/04/blissful-whites-wednesday_23.html">Blissful Whites Wednesday</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-43270689115925736252014-03-20T15:11:00.000-04:002014-03-20T15:11:01.352-04:00::Beginnings::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">Walter Wyn joined our family last night at 9:57.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">My first grandson, 2nd grandchild.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">Robyn Rose's baby brother.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lDeJfKew0g/Uys5ktfeWcI/AAAAAAAAg3Q/6Fi0mkI4ix0/s1600/walter+wyn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lDeJfKew0g/Uys5ktfeWcI/AAAAAAAAg3Q/6Fi0mkI4ix0/s1600/walter+wyn.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He was delivered at (my) home, right on Gramma's bed. :) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WD2YEECmscs/Uys6chDP_XI/AAAAAAAAg3o/lMeKZB6Ruoo/s1600/IMG_7532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WD2YEECmscs/Uys6chDP_XI/AAAAAAAAg3o/lMeKZB6Ruoo/s1600/IMG_7532.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then the midwife weighed him all wrapped up in a towel....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7lb. 11oz., 21in. long.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of sheer Goodness. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ni9Ep3tMMg/Uys5mPYKqmI/AAAAAAAAg3Y/MbPUpx_ddq4/s1600/walter+wyn+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ni9Ep3tMMg/Uys5mPYKqmI/AAAAAAAAg3Y/MbPUpx_ddq4/s1600/walter+wyn+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> Robyn has learned to say 'Baby Wawwt'. (Baby Walt)</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FmFPlz7bpD0/Uys8jh-3DfI/AAAAAAAAg30/spt30TOjT0c/s1600/IMG_7587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FmFPlz7bpD0/Uys8jh-3DfI/AAAAAAAAg30/spt30TOjT0c/s1600/IMG_7587.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My daughter Kristen was a goddess thru it all.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So proud of her.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xHigo_-rzDc/Uys5oJ1tKQI/AAAAAAAAg3g/qSTcQuESJaM/s1600/walter+wyn+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xHigo_-rzDc/Uys5oJ1tKQI/AAAAAAAAg3g/qSTcQuESJaM/s1600/walter+wyn+3.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We're all in babymoon. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Life is very, very wonderful.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eu7wj31aQo8/Uys89D_wpHI/AAAAAAAAg38/z2dXeYfXk8k/s1600/buttons+sign+offs+headers13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eu7wj31aQo8/Uys89D_wpHI/AAAAAAAAg38/z2dXeYfXk8k/s1600/buttons+sign+offs+headers13.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-70854025715520048082014-02-17T18:41:00.001-05:002014-02-17T18:41:25.482-05:00::Goodwill Caddy Do-Over::Greetings from the frozen tundra of NE Indiana.....<br />
After a glorious week in Florida with perfect weather, coming home to this slop has been quite a splash of ice water in the face. Literally. Ick.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewo4kQ1kwWk/UwKawbd7MGI/AAAAAAAAg2E/NViQ9jckQ_U/s1600/caddy5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewo4kQ1kwWk/UwKawbd7MGI/AAAAAAAAg2E/NViQ9jckQ_U/s1600/caddy5.jpg" height="496" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Anyway, just before leaving, I played around with more of my products from <a href="http://www.countrychicpaint.com/">Country Chic Paints.</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvSnsjLZpAc/UwKZU9x619I/AAAAAAAAg1c/zFqWh_3JStE/s1600/countrychic1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvSnsjLZpAc/UwKZU9x619I/AAAAAAAAg1c/zFqWh_3JStE/s1600/countrychic1.jpg" height="516" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Remember the <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2014/02/chalky-paint-reviewcountry-chic-paints.html">desk I did </a>using their shade called 'Elegance'? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5vhOJpNpxfM/UwKZYJdcjWI/AAAAAAAAg1k/ohwu-bfmNKc/s1600/countrychic14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5vhOJpNpxfM/UwKZYJdcjWI/AAAAAAAAg1k/ohwu-bfmNKc/s1600/countrychic14.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, this time I decided layer some colors, distress and dark wax. I picked up this unfinished wood caddy thingy at Goodwill a few weeks back, and got busy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OfvIj05ZlhU/UwKZaaR7aYI/AAAAAAAAg1o/6ks8PpHLgIE/s1600/caddy1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OfvIj05ZlhU/UwKZaaR7aYI/AAAAAAAAg1o/6ks8PpHLgIE/s1600/caddy1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I used one coat of Burgundy first....just sorta slopped it on. Slop and it's various versions are my word of the day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUTg5FD8n68/UwKZ5cvs6MI/AAAAAAAAg1w/7-ef6guV8w4/s1600/caddy2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUTg5FD8n68/UwKZ5cvs6MI/AAAAAAAAg1w/7-ef6guV8w4/s1600/caddy2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It reminds me of a terra cotta color. Reddish/brownish/orange-ish. Perfect for an undercoat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ylr_zbbDUgE/UwKaFj3FgQI/AAAAAAAAg14/jYv-XzIndjQ/s1600/caddy3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ylr_zbbDUgE/UwKaFj3FgQI/AAAAAAAAg14/jYv-XzIndjQ/s1600/caddy3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
When that dried, I slopped on a coat of Elegance, distressed it with 180 grit sand paper to show the Burgundy beneath, waxed with their clear wax first, then lightly brushed on their dark wax here and there, immediately wiping it in and off with a rag. <br />
The whole ding dang project took like 45 minutes of 'work'....the rest was just waiting for paint to dry. Great little project for a snowy afternoon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLVlXUwQY3w/UwKbkGB5biI/AAAAAAAAg2I/6rj4WskudZM/s1600/caddy6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLVlXUwQY3w/UwKbkGB5biI/AAAAAAAAg2I/6rj4WskudZM/s1600/caddy6.jpg" height="640" width="498" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6YZua8oNupQ/UwKbki6PVWI/AAAAAAAAg2Q/4WU27jxZ8C4/s1600/caddy4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6YZua8oNupQ/UwKbki6PVWI/AAAAAAAAg2Q/4WU27jxZ8C4/s1600/caddy4.jpg" height="640" width="518" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1p8mL96n4U/UwKbkGtqq-I/AAAAAAAAg2M/LLm8Gk3U-SQ/s1600/caddy7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1p8mL96n4U/UwKbkGtqq-I/AAAAAAAAg2M/LLm8Gk3U-SQ/s1600/caddy7.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I wanted to mention that I still don't feel confident using waxes, especially dark wax. I'm still waffling on what products I'll use to finish projects. There really is no substitute for the way a waxed piece looks and feels, but the cost and effort on large pieces still gives me hives. I'll be trying a couple other paints that require no top coat in the next month, so stayed tuned for those. <br />
<br />
As far as the actual chalk-style paints, though, Country Chic Paints are right up there in my top picks for ease, cost, color palette, and coverage. Just beautiful paints. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JiL74B8xgmc/UwKeDWFcSCI/AAAAAAAAg2k/kNFv8V-9-vA/s1600/eggsgfairy004-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JiL74B8xgmc/UwKeDWFcSCI/AAAAAAAAg2k/kNFv8V-9-vA/s1600/eggsgfairy004-1.jpg" height="204" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-70679250170697193982014-02-07T09:36:00.001-05:002014-02-07T09:36:31.579-05:00::Chalkboard Wall Valentine::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VKsAGiCadYo/UvToMhCNO2I/AAAAAAAAg0k/Q8vfjNlkJg8/s1600/love3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VKsAGiCadYo/UvToMhCNO2I/AAAAAAAAg0k/Q8vfjNlkJg8/s1600/love3.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
Ever since I looked at the floorplan and model for our new house, I knew I'd have me a chalkboard wall.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kQwg9JqK0DU/UvToM-kou2I/AAAAAAAAg0o/-hQTTOKVgf4/s1600/love2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kQwg9JqK0DU/UvToM-kou2I/AAAAAAAAg0o/-hQTTOKVgf4/s1600/love2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even though everyone on Pinterest has one.....I still feel like they're awesomesauce.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-33fZkeVic/UvToMsotSlI/AAAAAAAAg0g/yKQwW_TxRtA/s1600/love1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-33fZkeVic/UvToMsotSlI/AAAAAAAAg0g/yKQwW_TxRtA/s1600/love1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Mine just happens to be right at the bottom of my stairs in the dining room/kitchen, so I can leave squishy love notes for my boys. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NpaOL4_AXio/UvToNNsWqVI/AAAAAAAAg0w/k-bQQryEPmU/s1600/mumfordchalk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NpaOL4_AXio/UvToNNsWqVI/AAAAAAAAg0w/k-bQQryEPmU/s1600/mumfordchalk.jpg" height="640" width="342" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's the wall before:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XNYZSLj0KoI/UvTn7ii44iI/AAAAAAAAg0Y/nGautjccuOU/s1600/IMG_7309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XNYZSLj0KoI/UvTn7ii44iI/AAAAAAAAg0Y/nGautjccuOU/s1600/IMG_7309.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I'll be leaving for Florida soaking up as much Vitamin D as possible before returning to the frozen tundra of NE Indiana. I hope you spend your Valentine's Day with the ones you love.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-06-8VGsE6xQ/UvTmVK-FyXI/AAAAAAAAgz4/5vvaFE6whOo/s1600/love5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-06-8VGsE6xQ/UvTmVK-FyXI/AAAAAAAAgz4/5vvaFE6whOo/s1600/love5.jpg" height="640" width="216" /></a></div>
<br />
(Quote is from Mumford and Sons "Sigh No More", Love me some Mumford!)<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/xvmjuqvlYIU?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RhJmA6o-2SE/UvTqd3v5UsI/AAAAAAAAg1E/CnX2tnQuPGM/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RhJmA6o-2SE/UvTqd3v5UsI/AAAAAAAAg1E/CnX2tnQuPGM/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-1726458397099082322014-02-05T19:23:00.001-05:002016-09-12T19:22:31.411-04:00::Chalky Paint Review....Country Chic Paints::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
PSSSST...I'm no longer blogging here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can now find me at</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.acottagegirl.com/">www.acottagegirl.com</a></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
So you guys know I love me some chalky paint. Especially when I get to try it for free in exchange for an honest review. So here we go!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ybA_RPR50Tc/UvLLNBdP1OI/AAAAAAAAgwk/OaivhSAxJik/s1600/countrychic1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ybA_RPR50Tc/UvLLNBdP1OI/AAAAAAAAgwk/OaivhSAxJik/s1600/countrychic1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Today I'm reviewing a newcomer on the scene....<a href="http://www.countrychicpaint.com/">Country Chic Paints</a>. Their packaging is gorg. And though I picked out two colors and some wax to review, they sent all of the above! Very generous :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Here are the sah-weet colors I chose: Elegance on the left, Rustic Charm on the right.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yns0dOyA4lA/UvLLfsEm6kI/AAAAAAAAgws/jLQfEs2YKu8/s1600/countrychi4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yns0dOyA4lA/UvLLfsEm6kI/AAAAAAAAgws/jLQfEs2YKu8/s1600/countrychi4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Their clear wax is at the top, and they sent their dark Antiquing Wax and Gold Wax as well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nY8yriZee0o/UvLLiOw_EDI/AAAAAAAAgxY/ugEWorBGA1A/s1600/countrychic2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="596" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nY8yriZee0o/UvLLiOw_EDI/AAAAAAAAgxY/ugEWorBGA1A/s1600/countrychic2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Annnnd....some sample pots: Vanilla Frosting (hello), Burgundy and Dark Roast.<br />
I love the names of their paints :) Just don't eat or drink them. *snicker* BTW, there's no odor at all to the paints or waxes. They are no-VOC, and get this: they'll color match a favorite shade! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RzZ1uI5U6Mo/UvLLgUY1fkI/AAAAAAAAgw4/xEsuV71AK50/s1600/countrychic3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="614" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RzZ1uI5U6Mo/UvLLgUY1fkI/AAAAAAAAgw4/xEsuV71AK50/s1600/countrychic3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I pinched this 80's roll-top desk off craigslist for a song. It's partly oak and partly laminate, so I thought it'd make a good candidate for a makeover using <a href="http://www.countrychicpaint.com/">Country Chic</a>'s paints.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x9QXqtUfiB4/UvLLgjXE9QI/AAAAAAAAgxA/i4mZWFTdu-k/s1600/countrychic5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x9QXqtUfiB4/UvLLgjXE9QI/AAAAAAAAgxA/i4mZWFTdu-k/s1600/countrychic5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I'd already taken out the lower drawer, and I also removed the cubby piece inside to paint separately.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEWL_JmEhsM/UvLLhKp2FBI/AAAAAAAAgxI/tCsPcYBR2Gw/s1600/countrychic6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEWL_JmEhsM/UvLLhKp2FBI/AAAAAAAAgxI/tCsPcYBR2Gw/s1600/countrychic6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I like to turn my can upside down for a bit before stirring well and painting. (those are some of the drawers that go with the inside cubby in the background)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-px6u_THSDwQ/UvLLhrYxs1I/AAAAAAAAgxQ/a9krhIGSg7M/s1600/countrychic7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-px6u_THSDwQ/UvLLhrYxs1I/AAAAAAAAgxQ/a9krhIGSg7M/s1600/countrychic7.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I wiped the piece down with some Simple Green before painting, but didn't sand.<br />
Country Chic Paint is nice and thick. I almost got away with one coat! See how thick?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sbTQeMt1oGY/UvLLhzyFRpI/AAAAAAAAgxw/Dlltq4RLHP4/s1600/countrychic8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sbTQeMt1oGY/UvLLhzyFRpI/AAAAAAAAgxw/Dlltq4RLHP4/s1600/countrychic8.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
This is after the first coat.....really great coverage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DYdNkeEF-sQ/UvLLicrbR8I/AAAAAAAAgxg/n46J0jOXsNU/s1600/countrychic9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DYdNkeEF-sQ/UvLLicrbR8I/AAAAAAAAgxg/n46J0jOXsNU/s1600/countrychic9.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPuOsaBcLds/UvLOaX_Z9QI/AAAAAAAAgx4/m49V1p-znrI/s1600/countrychic11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPuOsaBcLds/UvLOaX_Z9QI/AAAAAAAAgx4/m49V1p-znrI/s1600/countrychic11.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
After the (light) second coat dried, I prepared to wax. Country Chic's wax is a bit more solid then most of the others I've used, but it went on easily. One thing I appreciate about their wax is that after you wipe or brush it on, you go back and wipe off excess AND buff at the same time. I just used an old wash cloth. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9JQsLZHj4Y/UvLOaXsD7RI/AAAAAAAAgx8/Ej5RdcmeSgg/s1600/countrychic12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9JQsLZHj4Y/UvLOaXsD7RI/AAAAAAAAgx8/Ej5RdcmeSgg/s1600/countrychic12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I kept the original hardware from the piece, and used my sample pot of Dark Roast to paint them up, then waxed and buffed. It buffs to a pretty, matte finish. Nice and smooth. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6xbYywuNX8/UvLOahcNGMI/AAAAAAAAgyE/k4FyBD7y03g/s1600/countrychic13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6xbYywuNX8/UvLOahcNGMI/AAAAAAAAgyE/k4FyBD7y03g/s1600/countrychic13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And here's the 'after'!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SL64Oq-sZiQ/UvLPzfu8AlI/AAAAAAAAgyY/6BtW_EUIHak/s1600/countrychic14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SL64Oq-sZiQ/UvLPzfu8AlI/AAAAAAAAgyY/6BtW_EUIHak/s1600/countrychic14.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XufmtbU2cpI/UvLPzSwwcMI/AAAAAAAAgyk/L2cPOXG8itA/s1600/countrychic15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XufmtbU2cpI/UvLPzSwwcMI/AAAAAAAAgyk/L2cPOXG8itA/s1600/countrychic15.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I love how the Dark Roast hardware pops off the Elegance blue. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kZGEoUTRN9Q/UvLPzctnbHI/AAAAAAAAgyU/FvQKfX06WOU/s1600/countrychic16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kZGEoUTRN9Q/UvLPzctnbHI/AAAAAAAAgyU/FvQKfX06WOU/s1600/countrychic16.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dL0HXGY-MtM/UvLPz5fE5lI/AAAAAAAAgyg/-fdG5mFtFnU/s1600/countrychic17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dL0HXGY-MtM/UvLPz5fE5lI/AAAAAAAAgyg/-fdG5mFtFnU/s1600/countrychic17.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-40vxQ7gtfEM/UvLP0bmek2I/AAAAAAAAgzA/bw_Ci4xYvW8/s1600/countrychic18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-40vxQ7gtfEM/UvLP0bmek2I/AAAAAAAAgzA/bw_Ci4xYvW8/s1600/countrychic18.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdG8uzHe85k/UvLP0iUOwqI/AAAAAAAAgy4/ZBp1X9iI3F0/s1600/countrychic19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdG8uzHe85k/UvLP0iUOwqI/AAAAAAAAgy4/ZBp1X9iI3F0/s1600/countrychic19.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8WMnaAdtTLM/UvLP0zHAfeI/AAAAAAAAgy0/FUDDr7syMOM/s1600/countrychic20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8WMnaAdtTLM/UvLP0zHAfeI/AAAAAAAAgy0/FUDDr7syMOM/s1600/countrychic20.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Just a lovely chalky paint!<br />
Now, get on over to their <a href="http://www.countrychicpaint.com/">cutie-patootie page</a> and sign up for their contest...winner gets $250 in free Country Chic products! AND, while you're over there, sign up for a free sample of paint and wax. You can find Country Chic on facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CountryChicPaint">HERE,</a> Pinterest <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/countrychicp/">HERE</a>, and You Tube Tutorials <a href="https://www.youtube.com/countrychicpaint">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
I'll be painting up another piece with the Rustic Charm Green when I return from vaca to Florida, as well as show off a smaller piece I did using the Antiquing Wax over Elegance. <br />
<br />
Partying at: <a href="http://www.greenwillowpond.com/2014/02/what-we-accomplished-wednesday-40.html?showComment=1391647749408#c2424023746582037616">Green Willow Pond</a>, <a href="http://www.domestically-speaking.com/2014/02/214th-power-paint-party.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:">Domestically Speaking,</a> <a href="http://elizabethandco.blogspot.com/2014/02/be-inspired-features-and-link-party-104.html">Elizabeth and Co</a>., <a href="http://bec4-beyondthepicketfence.blogspot.com/2014/02/under-100-link-party.html">Beyond the Picket Fence</a>, <a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2014/02/be-inspired-175.html">Common Ground</a>, <a href="http://shabbyartboutique.com/2014/02/shabbilicious-friday-link-party-35.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:">Shabby Art Boutique</a>, <a href="http://www.craftberrybush.com/2014/02/the-inspiration-gallery.html">Craftberry Bush</a>, <a href="http://www.redouxinteriors.com/2014/02/link-party-141-and-les-features/">Redoux Interiors</a>, <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2014/02/feathered-nest-friday.html">French Country Cottage</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-efhsG43H_eQ/UvLVV-_E1SI/AAAAAAAAgzU/y7DGUTLUgwQ/s1600/eggsgfairy004-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-efhsG43H_eQ/UvLVV-_E1SI/AAAAAAAAgzU/y7DGUTLUgwQ/s1600/eggsgfairy004-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-71597642668275381792014-02-01T16:54:00.000-05:002014-02-01T16:54:43.907-05:00::The Master (Bedroom) Plan::Wow. I mean, seriously, wow.<br />
<br />
You guys gave me super awesome advice on my <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2014/01/a-minecraft-master.html">last post</a>! Many, many ideas confirmed the direction I figgered I needed to go to rid myself of the Minecraft face. And many of you gave me other ideas that I hadn't even thought of! What great readers I have...<b>THANK YOU</b> for your input! It's that kind of give and take that makes me love blogging....<br />
<br />
So, because I'm a weirdo, I started painting my bedroom yesterday. While I was in the midst of 3 other projects. Yeah. Here's after the first coat:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B5tcbzn_LZI/Uu1kgKUYS1I/AAAAAAAAguY/cqjoI3mgUQQ/s1600/IMG_7359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B5tcbzn_LZI/Uu1kgKUYS1I/AAAAAAAAguY/cqjoI3mgUQQ/s1600/IMG_7359.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Then I ran outta paint. Of course I did.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_gDKzYAQb58/Uu0yPg2IiCI/AAAAAAAAguA/pp9lre4-DbM/s1600/newwallcolor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_gDKzYAQb58/Uu0yPg2IiCI/AAAAAAAAguA/pp9lre4-DbM/s1600/newwallcolor.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
But it gives you an idea of the difference in color, which is called 'Reed' by Martha Stewart (at Home Depot). She has this nifty symbol system to coordinate colors. The original color was 'Brown Alpaca' which has a flower symbol, and since I'm keeping the bathroom that color, I wanted something lighter in the bedroom that would still coordinate....'Reed' also has a flower. Martha is on my *#&^ list right now, but dang she has awesome colors.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4w5QIqJ1qp4/Uu1nR5Dj9OI/AAAAAAAAgug/oREl9KldsWE/s1600/IMG_7379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4w5QIqJ1qp4/Uu1nR5Dj9OI/AAAAAAAAgug/oREl9KldsWE/s1600/IMG_7379.JPG" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A few suggested I use a pale aqua, and I seriously considered it. In the end, I decided to stick with a warm, creamy beige because most of the rest of my house is already pale aqua (Martha Stewart's Spring Rain), plus my previous bedroom was aqua and I wanted something different.....although there will be plenty of aqua in this room. For instance...<br />
<br />
My beloved, faded, chippy shutter....delicious against the new wall color:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7SkJH2wq1fQ/Uu1oG3DcKwI/AAAAAAAAgu4/pnzKu5vvRCE/s1600/IMG_7367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7SkJH2wq1fQ/Uu1oG3DcKwI/AAAAAAAAgu4/pnzKu5vvRCE/s1600/IMG_7367.JPG" height="640" width="612" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fabrics I'm hoping to utilize....and more shutters:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bxhkZ4tncrQ/Uu1odhcQNpI/AAAAAAAAgvA/VuZaH0UxT4E/s1600/fabricsbedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bxhkZ4tncrQ/Uu1odhcQNpI/AAAAAAAAgvA/VuZaH0UxT4E/s1600/fabricsbedroom.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And get this....a friend who does renovations was installing our water filter yesterday and brought me 2 circa 1904 windows for free that just happen to be <u><i>exactly</i></u> the right size to hang below those <strike>Minecraft eyes</strike> windows! The glass needs removed, and they need cleaned up and sealed, but really? How perfect. Serendipity, I tell ya.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AbQbgsI7dfg/Uu1pG-mxYXI/AAAAAAAAgvQ/4kBXIXijqnA/s1600/windows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AbQbgsI7dfg/Uu1pG-mxYXI/AAAAAAAAgvQ/4kBXIXijqnA/s1600/windows.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
ANNNDDDD...hubster and I made a trip to the ReStore today and found 3 old wooden louvered closet doors to make a headboard. We paid a whooping $14 with tax. If y'all are lucky, I'll try to remember to take pics as we build it if you'd like to try your hand at constructing a $14 king size headboard.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mwr7yU2e4oY/Uu1p_B7CTbI/AAAAAAAAgvY/Eh6WGrTUny0/s1600/IMG_7372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mwr7yU2e4oY/Uu1p_B7CTbI/AAAAAAAAgvY/Eh6WGrTUny0/s1600/IMG_7372.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So....I have my work cut out for me over the next week before we take off for a 10 trip to warmer climes (Orlando, FL). I'll try to get as much painting, building, sewing, frouffing done as I can. I usually don't mess with the master bedroom till all the other areas are done, but since it's right off the main living area where God and everyone can see it, I wanted to make it awesome from the get go. Again, thanks <b>SO much</b> for your input! I am excited for how the room will take shape. <br />
<br />
PS: I also painted my entryway and a chalkboard wall, I'm painting my soon-to-make-an-appearance grandbaby #2's room next door, and I'm preparing another chalky paint brand review, so ::cottage instincts:: is back on the playing field :) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T7Q4Rpu5UOs/Uu1sst711GI/AAAAAAAAgvk/S7fJZx7Oifc/s1600/buttons+sign+offs+headers15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T7Q4Rpu5UOs/Uu1sst711GI/AAAAAAAAgvk/S7fJZx7Oifc/s1600/buttons+sign+offs+headers15.jpg" height="295" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-82978952202180730812014-01-29T22:57:00.000-05:002014-01-29T23:08:37.900-05:00::A Minecraft Master::Hello!<br />
I need a little help brainstorming about my master bedroom.<br />
Here's what I'm working with. I thought it'd be nifty to have those two square windows, but now I'm not so sure. They're just kinda hanging around up there...floating in nothingness. With 9 foot ceilings, they remind me of 2 ginormous eyes, and my headboard is a frown. Like some sorta creepy, blocky Minecraft character. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZ30ur04mas/Uum9fAGTnUI/AAAAAAAAgsk/LCoseKeg4_I/s1600/bedroom+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZ30ur04mas/Uum9fAGTnUI/AAAAAAAAgsk/LCoseKeg4_I/s1600/bedroom+1.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Lemme show you a wider view: See the frowny face? <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o6yYQEDUszA/Uum-arpzWCI/AAAAAAAAgss/2fKh2oXBncs/s1600/bedroom+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o6yYQEDUszA/Uum-arpzWCI/AAAAAAAAgss/2fKh2oXBncs/s1600/bedroom+3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And while I'm at it, lemme just say that the ding <strike>dong</strike> dang framers (Amish Dudes) didn't get them even from the corners. The one on the left is farther away from the wall than the one over the blue table....which shifts the whole bed towards the bathroom door, leaving more space on the side with the big windows. Kinda irritates me, but whatev.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-st0B5-y8YOQ/Uum_L5hfXHI/AAAAAAAAgs0/M4Pa33x0_QE/s1600/bedroom+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-st0B5-y8YOQ/Uum_L5hfXHI/AAAAAAAAgs0/M4Pa33x0_QE/s1600/bedroom+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So, I'm also not sure I'm in love with the color (though I love it in the ajoining bath). I used this color (Martha Stewart Brown Alpaca) in my old kitchen and loved it, but my cabinets were white. Maybe I need to paint the nightstands white? I'm also kinda over the headboard. I think I need a statement headboard to fill up some of that wallspace...also one that I can lean against as opposed to say,<i> fall thru </i>when I'm blog-stalking before bed on my laptop. *rolling eyes*<br />
<br />
One of my tricks when I'm feeling stuck is to take pictures. Sometimes it helped me get a 'big picture' of what I'm dealing with. Unfortunately, all it did for me today was show me a Minecraft face.<br />
<br />
Here's some of my inspiration pics from my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/cottageinstinct/sah-weet-master-suites/">sah-weet master suites Pinterest board</a>.....(and I just went to take a gander and realized EVERY picture except one features pale blues/greens, cream or white walls. Ugh. Think I'll be doing some painting in there.....)<br />
<br />
A shutter headboard?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fYKneBJEXAE/UunEljrAMtI/AAAAAAAAgtE/_IyzHjKV3oQ/s1600/b2df7809131b748f591d68eeb599d558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fYKneBJEXAE/UunEljrAMtI/AAAAAAAAgtE/_IyzHjKV3oQ/s1600/b2df7809131b748f591d68eeb599d558.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/decorating-style/cottage/blue-cottage/?socsrc=bhgpin051913shuttersbedroom&page=8&crlt.pid=camp.QVw6B0soWz1L">(source)</a></div>
<br />
A canopy bed?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QATASrb8QAI/UunGNOnb_GI/AAAAAAAAgtM/OQQTLnDMyk8/s1600/85217749b8e3f75d0645e4cc60cb287c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QATASrb8QAI/UunGNOnb_GI/AAAAAAAAgtM/OQQTLnDMyk8/s1600/85217749b8e3f75d0645e4cc60cb287c.jpg" height="570" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(dead link)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's the only one with dark-ish walls, and it's surrounded by white....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nVXJja2zLY/UunHbSCbJAI/AAAAAAAAgtU/Vr_lvTDNkw0/s1600/5a33e1052b169672d14c5e274e8e034a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nVXJja2zLY/UunHbSCbJAI/AAAAAAAAgtU/Vr_lvTDNkw0/s1600/5a33e1052b169672d14c5e274e8e034a.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/decorating-style/cottage/cottage-style-decorating-ideas/#page=12">(source)</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So....your turn. Ideas? Opinions?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Should I just draw a giant nose over the headboard and call it a day?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lEpLEA0d9iQ/UunMj3xBq6I/AAAAAAAAgtg/GDZ43FVPYv0/s1600/bedroom+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lEpLEA0d9iQ/UunMj3xBq6I/AAAAAAAAgtg/GDZ43FVPYv0/s1600/bedroom+4.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lc_bMFXlesA/UunM1uhc9II/AAAAAAAAgto/fCht4sJxKxo/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lc_bMFXlesA/UunM1uhc9II/AAAAAAAAgto/fCht4sJxKxo/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-3111124272797965682014-01-24T18:00:00.000-05:002016-09-12T19:23:07.746-04:00::Happy Things Part 2-The Kitchen and Master Bedroom::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
PSSSST...I'm no longer blogging here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can now find me at</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.acottagegirl.com/">www.acottagegirl.com</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
----------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you read <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2014/01/happy-things.html">my previous post<u> about my great room</u> </a> you'll know I spent some time snapping pictures of my home in an effort to capture those spaces that make me happy....because I'm in a pretty nasty season of life right now, and want to put whatever energy I can muster into creating gratefulness to offset the blues. That didn't include cleaning up before taking the pictures, don'tchaknow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In looking thru the pics from my last post, I began to see my intentions in bringing in more color to my spaces and in using pieces that have sentimental value regardless of matching are serving me well so far. In sticking with <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/p/i-wrote-a-couple-years-ago-stuck-it-up.html">my 'loves' and letting go of some 'likes'</a>, I've made space for the things that support my energy, and have become tools in navigating my way thru the aforementioned nasties.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So here's the kitchen. (Blue color on cabinets is SHERWIN WILLIAMS 'Watery') My Target clearanced boxwood wreath makes me all kinds of happy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Please note I am missing a knob on the upper cabinet, and that stack of dirty pots from 2 days ago. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oZuz-WW5h3E/UuJu_KYtkSI/AAAAAAAAgqY/jfJoQ8DWoYA/s1600/IMG_7259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oZuz-WW5h3E/UuJu_KYtkSI/AAAAAAAAgqY/jfJoQ8DWoYA/s1600/IMG_7259.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Those would be my brown socks. On the counter. And an almost empty bag of valentine M & M's in the fruit basket.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No judgement. They also make me happy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hard to see, but lots of birdies from my ever-growing collection have found their way into this space.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u2wRu9iMA8A/UuJu_iJdgCI/AAAAAAAAgqg/vR_5uKfZKrc/s1600/IMG_7260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u2wRu9iMA8A/UuJu_iJdgCI/AAAAAAAAgqg/vR_5uKfZKrc/s1600/IMG_7260.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The painted box next to the vintage mason jars belonged to my mama. She is everywhere in my home.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That makes me happy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RJECerw5xxA/UuJu_2ydOkI/AAAAAAAAgq4/HnARzKkjRk8/s1600/IMG_7262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RJECerw5xxA/UuJu_2ydOkI/AAAAAAAAgq4/HnARzKkjRk8/s1600/IMG_7262.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A couple of $15 Target stools I painted up quick until I can find some counter stools I love. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They make me happy because they remind me that temporary solutions can be perfect for a season.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tTcBQwFr8Sk/UuJvA402_WI/AAAAAAAAgrE/ySFwf_8B_WU/s1600/IMG_7282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tTcBQwFr8Sk/UuJvA402_WI/AAAAAAAAgrE/ySFwf_8B_WU/s1600/IMG_7282.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A colorful runner I picked up on a whim several months ago just happens to match my kitchen cabinets perfectly! Happy, happy...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-smiltvBWkcE/UuJvAp-91QI/AAAAAAAAgrg/XsBhixUUMQ0/s1600/IMG_7281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-smiltvBWkcE/UuJvAp-91QI/AAAAAAAAgrg/XsBhixUUMQ0/s1600/IMG_7281.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Looking into the entryway, the vignette on my gramma's dry sink holds my mom's old gold oil lamp, and <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2013/11/bloggers-making-my-world-go-round.html">the signage</a> my blog friend <a href="http://followyourheartwoodworking.blogspot.ca/">Julie Rose</a> made for me hung on a thrifted beaded board door I painted. A rubbermaid tote just hanging out, as well as my winter coat thrown over a chair....whatev. It has ruffles on the be-hind, and of course that makes me happy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fbsne_CBKbE/UuJvAHQ30VI/AAAAAAAAgq8/b4b6TzEXVCw/s1600/IMG_7263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fbsne_CBKbE/UuJvAHQ30VI/AAAAAAAAgq8/b4b6TzEXVCw/s1600/IMG_7263.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pretty clearanced runner on the table, with a zillion little things that say "a family dwells here".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, happy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dJqbU0pfsL4/UuJvAXP4RfI/AAAAAAAAgrA/Vg1VT08VwDk/s1600/IMG_7278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dJqbU0pfsL4/UuJvAXP4RfI/AAAAAAAAgrA/Vg1VT08VwDk/s1600/IMG_7278.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The china hutch. Oh the china hutch. This is it's current incarnation (the 3rd so far), while I decide if I like the color. It came from my hubby's uncle. It's a happy color, but I'm still trying to decide if it plays nicely with some other elements in the room.....It's a couple shades darker than my blue cabinets on the opposite side of this space.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yzswxJwr6GI/UuJu_DDqk4I/AAAAAAAAgqo/QKBtTDvnH_Q/s1600/IMG_7257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yzswxJwr6GI/UuJu_DDqk4I/AAAAAAAAgqo/QKBtTDvnH_Q/s1600/IMG_7257.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I haven't started on the bottom yet, so it sits in all it's mismatched glory while I ponder the color (It's ASCP Provence, rubbed back to show Shabby Paints Worn White).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love me some thrifted white ironstone and pretty platters, though!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-chN8jIEy6cA/UuJu_Me2-uI/AAAAAAAAgqc/Els5_gD0UIw/s1600/IMG_7256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-chN8jIEy6cA/UuJu_Me2-uI/AAAAAAAAgqc/Els5_gD0UIw/s1600/IMG_7256.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Under the stairs, in plain view of the dining room and great room is this office nook/dump station. It makes me happy because I know someday it will be awesome. For now, it's functional, and this pic will make a fabulous 'before' shot, yeah?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S8EG0VtOx8I/UuJvBZAiqsI/AAAAAAAAgrc/fDVZl9HDH0k/s1600/IMG_7289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S8EG0VtOx8I/UuJvBZAiqsI/AAAAAAAAgrc/fDVZl9HDH0k/s1600/IMG_7289.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My bedroom. I <strike>never </strike>rarely make my bed. No real curtains or stuff on the walls yet. But it's a haven. That headboard was a $40 bright brass beauty from the 80's that I sprayed with textured brown paint. Can't decide if I love the wall color, but I love that this room is on the first floor! Steamer trunk in a lovely shade of blue belonged to some of hubby's relatives. It makes me happy except when I jamb my toe into it on one of my nightly jaunts to the ta.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8effm8m5VzE/UuJvBsb7t6I/AAAAAAAAgro/ts57iC3rBK0/s1600/IMG_7290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8effm8m5VzE/UuJvBsb7t6I/AAAAAAAAgro/ts57iC3rBK0/s1600/IMG_7290.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mom's corner cabinet found it's home in here too, showing off my collection of pitchers. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happiness!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8SGf1DjYSQE/UuJvCohTTvI/AAAAAAAAgsA/WKt-lqMNi1o/s1600/IMG_7296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8SGf1DjYSQE/UuJvCohTTvI/AAAAAAAAgsA/WKt-lqMNi1o/s1600/IMG_7296.JPG" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
By far, my most happiest place in the house can be seen thru this pocket door...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xLW2f72VrRk/UuJvCcjbrUI/AAAAAAAAgr8/kChUgO2GEJg/s1600/IMG_7294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xLW2f72VrRk/UuJvCcjbrUI/AAAAAAAAgr8/kChUgO2GEJg/s1600/IMG_7294.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I get giggly every time I walk in here.....</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X832j-EznYs/UuJvB7PONHI/AAAAAAAAgrk/olZTlF8YW-g/s1600/IMG_7291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X832j-EznYs/UuJvB7PONHI/AAAAAAAAgrk/olZTlF8YW-g/s1600/IMG_7291.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I painted the secondhand mirror with ASCP in Duck Egg and distressed it. PERFECTION. And my wee china hutch fits perfectly between the vanity and the tub. Beadboard also makes me very happy. Duh.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GyjDq6bXPi8/UuJvCKvEVzI/AAAAAAAAgsM/7c1ui9icrM8/s1600/IMG_7292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GyjDq6bXPi8/UuJvCKvEVzI/AAAAAAAAgsM/7c1ui9icrM8/s1600/IMG_7292.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And lastly for today, my little glass collection of birdie things....just sitting here on my gramma's old sewing cabinet-turned jewelry holder until I get inspired to<strike> dust them</strike> move them to a more permanent location.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CbjGCsJmTz4/UuJvDBUqJQI/AAAAAAAAgsE/pQ5ljGjNbbg/s1600/IMG_7298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CbjGCsJmTz4/UuJvDBUqJQI/AAAAAAAAgsE/pQ5ljGjNbbg/s1600/IMG_7298.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm surrounded by family heirlooms and items that make me happy. Don't underestimate the power your own spaces and things carry that can affect your moods.....I'm really gobsmacked by how documenting all the pretty things I have curated for my home conjur sweet memories and connect me with what's important in life. My house doesn't look like a magazine shoot or frumpy catalogue, but it fills me with peace and comfort for my frazzled emotions and twirling thoughts. <br />
<br />
I think I may need to have an impromptu linky in which you, dear ::cottage:: readers, can share 'a day in the life' of your own home, even if it's in the middle of a renovation (<a href="http://suzyq-vintagous.blogspot.com/">ahem, Suzan...</a>), singling out the decor that speaks to you, feeds you, and makes your home YOURS. Cleaning beforehand not necessary or recommended.<br />
<br />
What say you? Wanna play? <br />
<br />
(pssst: sharing this with <a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2014/01/26/diy-party-time/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:">That DIY Party</a>, <a href="http://modvintagelife.blogspot.com/2014/01/mod-mix-monday-137.html">Mod Mix Monday</a>, <a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/2014/01/nifty-thrifty-tuesday-no197.html">Nifty Thrifty Tuesday,</a> <a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/2014/01/the-scoop-103.html">The Scoop,</a> <a href="http://www.cozylittlehouse.com/2014/01/tweak-it-tuesday-75.html">Tweak it Tuesday,</a> <a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2014/01/201st-inspire-me-tuesday.html">Inspire Me Tuesday,</a> <a href="http://cityfarmhouse.com/2014/01/the-inspiratio-exchange-linky-party-34.html">Inspiration Exchange,</a> <a href="http://www.greenwillowpond.com/2014/01/what-we-accomplished-wednesday-39.html">What We Accomplished Wednesday,</a> <a href="http://elizabethandco.blogspot.com/2014/01/be-inspired-features-and-link-party-103.html">Be Inspired</a>, <a href="http://arttisbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/01/twirl-and-take-bow-link-party-and_28.html">Twirl and Take a Bow,</a> <a href="http://knickoftimeinteriors.blogspot.com/2014/01/knick-of-time-tuesday-122-vintage.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:">Knick of Time Tuesday,</a> <a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2014/01/be-inspired-174.html">Be Inspired</a>, <a href="http://www.craftberrybush.com/2014/01/the-inspiration-gallery_30.html">The Inspiration Gallery,</a>cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-21731566114746741642014-01-23T21:08:00.000-05:002014-01-24T23:06:04.535-05:00::Happy Things::Just about every year, at just about this same time, I begin battling the blahs. I've written in the past how I struggle with Major Depression, and this year with winter really making an obnoxious appearance, I'm noticing the old familiar patterns.....lots of sleeping, loss of interest in anything, negativity, etc. I've also been dealing with and processing some very painful personal health issues, some family relationship issues, and the simple stress of getting settled in our new home. <br />
<br />
Anyway, today I decided to get out my camera with the new tripod my kiddos got me for Christmas, debated whether or not I would clean up first (didn't), and just took some snapshots of my life <i>in the moment</i>. What my beautiful new house looks like with mounds of ice and snow outside reflecting the sun's rays into my living spaces on January 23, 2014. To literally <i>focus</i> my attention on the things that make me smile....and I want to share them with you. I'm attempting to cultivate gratefulness, and my word this year is 'creativity'....so I"m being creative in battling my depression by taking pictures of stuff that makes me happy. In no particular order:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My new retro celery green velour side chairs, picked up on craigslist for $35. Yes I did.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fFrgy6XSsE/UuHDXcegNxI/AAAAAAAAgoE/6TE5pB_SWy4/s1600/IMG_7237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fFrgy6XSsE/UuHDXcegNxI/AAAAAAAAgoE/6TE5pB_SWy4/s1600/IMG_7237.JPG" height="640" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MvyTCktzR4c/UuHDXfY9SXI/AAAAAAAAgoI/N1Y3tcjQqGw/s1600/IMG_7243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MvyTCktzR4c/UuHDXfY9SXI/AAAAAAAAgoI/N1Y3tcjQqGw/s1600/IMG_7243.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The spray of (fake) pussy willows in my favorite shade of blue IKEA container.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2xV-ePnKUew/UuHDXfHLLlI/AAAAAAAAgoA/IHclfe6BqY8/s1600/IMG_7245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2xV-ePnKUew/UuHDXfHLLlI/AAAAAAAAgoA/IHclfe6BqY8/s1600/IMG_7245.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Old shutters framing a work of art depicting my husband's vacation spot growing up....his family owned an island with a camp in upstate NY on Big Moose Lake. A family relative painted this for his parents years ago, and they gave it to us as a housewarming gift.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIQqLjkl0ko/UuHDYLF0xAI/AAAAAAAAgoM/vW93iXPP_hw/s1600/IMG_7248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIQqLjkl0ko/UuHDYLF0xAI/AAAAAAAAgoM/vW93iXPP_hw/s1600/IMG_7248.JPG" height="526" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLjc3UuHyEE/UuHDYdC4X_I/AAAAAAAAgok/wVFkiANVkc0/s1600/IMG_7253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLjc3UuHyEE/UuHDYdC4X_I/AAAAAAAAgok/wVFkiANVkc0/s1600/IMG_7253.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sunlight streaming in the big windows, over my mama's picture sitting on my old dresser. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V09oICgnlLU/UuHDYa1dLBI/AAAAAAAAgog/-zIMNnMhAp4/s1600/IMG_7254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V09oICgnlLU/UuHDYa1dLBI/AAAAAAAAgog/-zIMNnMhAp4/s1600/IMG_7254.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vNXt4k-5t2M/UuHGG8BppBI/AAAAAAAAgo8/GhszMIBodQk/s1600/IMG_7270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vNXt4k-5t2M/UuHGG8BppBI/AAAAAAAAgo8/GhszMIBodQk/s1600/IMG_7270.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The squishy, pale aqua sofa my parents helped us buy several years ago.....that my daughter graciously traded back to us after I wasn't content with the beige sofa we got from my dad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwQlEf-uFHw/UuHGG8XzS0I/AAAAAAAAgo0/ZYyD4A65wM4/s1600/IMG_7246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwQlEf-uFHw/UuHGG8XzS0I/AAAAAAAAgo0/ZYyD4A65wM4/s1600/IMG_7246.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My chippy coffee table, a 1700's writing desk my mama gave me, which hubs cut down to size for me.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eT1c8T-IzuU/UuHGG6uEolI/AAAAAAAAgo4/MEx7d_JtVXI/s1600/IMG_7272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eT1c8T-IzuU/UuHGG6uEolI/AAAAAAAAgo4/MEx7d_JtVXI/s1600/IMG_7272.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My new TV entertainment center, purchased for $25 on craigslist. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gonna remove one of the middle drawers to make space for electronics, etc. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XFnoGJH8wvg/UuHGH9y4LbI/AAAAAAAAgpM/1OAtIos_xYY/s1600/IMG_7305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XFnoGJH8wvg/UuHGH9y4LbI/AAAAAAAAgpM/1OAtIos_xYY/s1600/IMG_7305.JPG" height="550" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love the green knobs and relief pattern on the doors...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7EkF6PXtwt0/UuHGHc89ZlI/AAAAAAAAgpU/5ZUpsNTf8eM/s1600/IMG_7274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7EkF6PXtwt0/UuHGHc89ZlI/AAAAAAAAgpU/5ZUpsNTf8eM/s1600/IMG_7274.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Antique pie safe that belonged to my mom....she painted it this gorgeous color. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4bEXYQU5SXA/UuHGHhY07MI/AAAAAAAAgpQ/h-If0MTdIZs/s1600/IMG_7285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4bEXYQU5SXA/UuHGHhY07MI/AAAAAAAAgpQ/h-If0MTdIZs/s1600/IMG_7285.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A set of vintage prints from my friend <a href="http://thriftystyleatsixty.blogspot.com/">Rebecca</a> (who I hope will take me thrifting when the weather turns!)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8MgVMDacGXQ/UuHHa5SwTgI/AAAAAAAAgpk/5CPsAlrw1Hg/s1600/IMG_7277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8MgVMDacGXQ/UuHHa5SwTgI/AAAAAAAAgpk/5CPsAlrw1Hg/s1600/IMG_7277.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My grandbaby Robyn Rose's toy/book shelves, and the hind quarters of my sweet dog Bogart.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QR709pewIIY/UuHHayDZvsI/AAAAAAAAgpo/3xzqoOP24uI/s1600/IMG_7287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QR709pewIIY/UuHHayDZvsI/AAAAAAAAgpo/3xzqoOP24uI/s1600/IMG_7287.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My music....I've begun playing and writing music again in my new church. My daughter told me after watching me play and sing during last week's service that "you are so beautiful when you're doing what you love...." *sniff* (see a snippet <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=603054803082971&set=vb.145747708813685&type=2&theater">HERE</a>)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1X0-McxEgs/UuHHa8ZIA4I/AAAAAAAAgps/Vp9cQ11NF6A/s1600/IMG_7297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1X0-McxEgs/UuHHa8ZIA4I/AAAAAAAAgps/Vp9cQ11NF6A/s1600/IMG_7297.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And lastly...my baby boy lounging around reading his Kindle after school. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KiQzF_zJPdc/UuHHbiu69nI/AAAAAAAAgp4/qGA1bpy_0r8/s1600/IMG_7306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KiQzF_zJPdc/UuHHbiu69nI/AAAAAAAAgp4/qGA1bpy_0r8/s1600/IMG_7306.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Next up, I'll share some other spaces that bring me peace in the midst of a chaotic season. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What spaces in your home center and ground you?<br />
(EDITED: Part 2 of Happy Things is <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2014/01/happy-things-part-2-kitchen-and-master.html">HERE</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pcc8cbb537o/UuHK2xgKuFI/AAAAAAAAgqE/oOVis-uzRqc/s1600/buttons+sign+offs+headers13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pcc8cbb537o/UuHK2xgKuFI/AAAAAAAAgqE/oOVis-uzRqc/s1600/buttons+sign+offs+headers13.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-24248718644943140512014-01-06T19:39:00.002-05:002014-01-07T20:16:02.031-05:00::Taking the Time::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RptK99-93gg/UstAPnrvgkI/AAAAAAAAgls/r31PDbwsI4g/s1600/antique+dresser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RptK99-93gg/UstAPnrvgkI/AAAAAAAAgls/r31PDbwsI4g/s1600/antique+dresser.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Hey ::cottage:: Readers....<br />
<br />
We're snowed in here in NE Indiana...they just lifted a snow emergency, but everything is still closed tomorrow. Wind chills are in negative double digits. I trudged thru snow drifts up to my hoohah (can I say hoohah on this blog?) to get to the garage next door for paint supplies this afternoon. Decided to start on this baby:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H1gV-2u8Tjo/UstGDLAzNuI/AAAAAAAAgms/vcEmllMORJU/s1600/kitchenxmas8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H1gV-2u8Tjo/UstGDLAzNuI/AAAAAAAAgms/vcEmllMORJU/s1600/kitchenxmas8.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
The hutch, not the dining set.....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I've also spent my time planning my Florida vacation next month :)<br />
<br />
And sleeping. Ok, let's just call it what it is: hibernating.<br />
<br />
In the few moments I'm awake I stalk pinterest and houzz and my blogfeed and craigslist looking for inspiration for my new house. Colors, furniture arrangements, crafts, sewing projects. All stuff I have little motivation and even less cash.<br />
<br />
I'm a leeetle overwhelmed at this point.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_qHBapeBiIg/UstFAg6ikeI/AAAAAAAAgmM/yYSI1ohN778/s1600/dresser2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_qHBapeBiIg/UstFAg6ikeI/AAAAAAAAgmM/yYSI1ohN778/s1600/dresser2.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(a few signs of spring to get me thru til April)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I'm coming to the realization (that I come to every time I undertake a re-do). I'm just gonna have to LIVE HERE for awhile. And then I'm gonna have to listen to what my own style, my furnishings, my budget, my time and energy, and my HOUSE tell me. Dang it.<br />
<br />
The most frustrating thing is seeing ideas I really LIKE, but not yet sure I LOVE....and realizing that without starting from scratch, those ideas prolly won't happen. I have lots of antiques that mean a lot to me, passed down from my mom and gramma, things I don't want to paint or sell. Things I love looking at, but don't really mesh with the colorful interiors I'm feeling drawn to on pinterest and such. I want to make them work somehow in my new spaces without my house feeling like 'gramma's house'. I'm digging stuff like this:<br />
<br />
<a data-pin-do="embedPin" href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/287878601154915415/"></a>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-utD45LqOX_s/UstJvDAsQRI/AAAAAAAAgm8/w9icz1s_p_k/s1600/f0e57c7d75ce85d6626963d400879694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-utD45LqOX_s/UstJvDAsQRI/AAAAAAAAgm8/w9icz1s_p_k/s1600/f0e57c7d75ce85d6626963d400879694.jpg" height="640" width="522" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(no link from pinterest)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I think I love the blue couches and green ottomans. The floral might be a bit bright except for welcoming spring :) But I'm noticing for the most part, I'm still drawn to images like these, which still incorporate blue and green, but with softer colors, and can easily handle a few antique wood and chippy salvaged items sprinkled in:<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lBs4UdHr1QU/UstLY_ZTOfI/AAAAAAAAgnM/UVw6Fz93B0k/s1600/cba8de8eef4043f549ae7aeed334eff7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lBs4UdHr1QU/UstLY_ZTOfI/AAAAAAAAgnM/UVw6Fz93B0k/s1600/cba8de8eef4043f549ae7aeed334eff7.jpg" height="436" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/huka-lodge/photos">(source)</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-apfTlfJ7T2w/UstMDDkyTzI/AAAAAAAAgnU/fnHuhkUbSoQ/s1600/028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-apfTlfJ7T2w/UstMDDkyTzI/AAAAAAAAgnU/fnHuhkUbSoQ/s1600/028.jpg" height="504" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cobblestonefarms.blogspot.com/2012/12/watching-movie-by-tree.html">(source)</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
There's a few things I know I'm gonna need: soft furnishings....rugs, curtains, slipcovers, maybe even some fabric 'wallpaper' and beadedboard. The openness and high ceilings are delicious, but it's a bit echo-ey and boundary-less. Having only lived in homes with small, low-ceiling-ed, closed-off rooms, this open concept dealio is a bit challenging. <br />
<br />
I *am* happy with this little arrangement. The dresser was mine growing up. The chair is 1000 million years old and for show only from my Mom's stash. The signage is an old orphaned mirror I painted up to look like a chalkboard using a stencil that cost almost as much as my house. Other stuff is thrifted or bought on the cheap. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V65GSIjY64E/UstFOHGamnI/AAAAAAAAgmU/-1McT9kClQA/s1600/dresser3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V65GSIjY64E/UstFOHGamnI/AAAAAAAAgmU/-1McT9kClQA/s1600/dresser3.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So I'll wait. And hibernate.<br />
<br />
Oh, and go back and<a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/p/i-wrote-a-couple-years-ago-stuck-it-up.html"> read my own advice</a>. There's an idea. <br />
<br />
If you're dealing with the cold and snow, be safe and warm. If you're not, be thankful. It's pretty, but it's a mess to deal with. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-szoMzeDtZ80/UstE3NHTNrI/AAAAAAAAgmI/_a6CD22CSS0/s1600/dresser4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-szoMzeDtZ80/UstE3NHTNrI/AAAAAAAAgmI/_a6CD22CSS0/s1600/dresser4.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Sharing at <a href="http://cityfarmhouse.com/2014/01/the-inspiration-exchange-linky-party-31.html">City Farmhouse</a>, <a href="http://elizabethandco.blogspot.com/2014/01/be-inspired-features-and-link-party-100.html">Elizabeth & Co.</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r886uEN2CI0/UstCxZwngHI/AAAAAAAAgl0/KOJ_J5lChhE/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r886uEN2CI0/UstCxZwngHI/AAAAAAAAgl0/KOJ_J5lChhE/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-74978148838922940162013-12-24T19:30:00.003-05:002013-12-24T19:30:17.739-05:00::Happy Christmas::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l623gWNLM0s/Urom9wqOoiI/AAAAAAAAgcE/qkpdPBVjKAg/s1600/IMG_4130-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l623gWNLM0s/Urom9wqOoiI/AAAAAAAAgcE/qkpdPBVjKAg/s640/IMG_4130-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-67306706216746997632013-12-20T16:52:00.001-05:002013-12-20T16:52:21.747-05:00::Christmas Kitchen::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I teased you with this pretty little aqua and red vintagey vignette in my <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2013/12/new-house-christmasfication.html">last post.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UBE2hSk_XYo/UrS5MJG2RwI/AAAAAAAAgag/_NCkYHMq_as/s1600/kitchen1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UBE2hSk_XYo/UrS5MJG2RwI/AAAAAAAAgag/_NCkYHMq_as/s640/kitchen1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
It actually sits behind my big corner sink....one of my favorite things about our new house!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciZGJnGdYf8/UrS5t8CiEkI/AAAAAAAAgbU/v9coU94yPXo/s1600/kitchenxmas9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciZGJnGdYf8/UrS5t8CiEkI/AAAAAAAAgbU/v9coU94yPXo/s640/kitchenxmas9.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some white bottle brush trees, epsom salt and red jingle bells nestled inbetween dollar store white poinsettas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2Qhtyss4RE/UrS5TVv_KGI/AAAAAAAAgao/pO_JsJJnYnU/s1600/kitchenxmas1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2Qhtyss4RE/UrS5TVv_KGI/AAAAAAAAgao/pO_JsJJnYnU/s640/kitchenxmas1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--O1PzDwswNs/UrS5XqRUTEI/AAAAAAAAgaw/9Vy5Q_8k0QE/s1600/kitchenxmas6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--O1PzDwswNs/UrS5XqRUTEI/AAAAAAAAgaw/9Vy5Q_8k0QE/s640/kitchenxmas6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Looking the other direction toward our dining area. Yes, that Ethan Allen piece will be painted. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The dining set will not.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AxouYeieCf0/UrS5iaf5xiI/AAAAAAAAga4/yQQzoCugxwY/s1600/kitchenxmas8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AxouYeieCf0/UrS5iaf5xiI/AAAAAAAAga4/yQQzoCugxwY/s640/kitchenxmas8.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ornaments from Hob Lob last year.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DbCLB7uQvBM/UrS5lkNbuwI/AAAAAAAAgbA/aNMKif8fKag/s1600/kitchenxmas4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DbCLB7uQvBM/UrS5lkNbuwI/AAAAAAAAgbA/aNMKif8fKag/s640/kitchenxmas4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Same stockings from last year, but I thought they'd look fun on the stairway instead of the mantel.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-29bwg_DW5fE/UrS5oIDtyxI/AAAAAAAAgbI/TmYsp1GEM7A/s1600/kitchenxmas7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-29bwg_DW5fE/UrS5oIDtyxI/AAAAAAAAgbI/TmYsp1GEM7A/s640/kitchenxmas7.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I took a bazillion pics, but it's raining out, and my daughter has my tripod, so everything came out blurry.<br />
These were the only salvageable ones. I asked Santa for a new tripod, so hopefully my camera skillz will improve!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uIixDB4nI0s/UrS7XnaVg7I/AAAAAAAAgbc/tRG8mSuTtNc/s1600/kitchenxmas5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uIixDB4nI0s/UrS7XnaVg7I/AAAAAAAAgbc/tRG8mSuTtNc/s640/kitchenxmas5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shopping is almost done, and I'm getting stuff wrapped around boxes and such. Hope you're enjoying these last busy days before Santa arrives :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Y6Lcwh6RNE/UrS8B_cOlLI/AAAAAAAAgbk/i08RwZfshDg/s1600/angelboygfairy003c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Y6Lcwh6RNE/UrS8B_cOlLI/AAAAAAAAgbk/i08RwZfshDg/s320/angelboygfairy003c.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-30166681242137540642013-12-16T17:09:00.000-05:002013-12-16T17:38:05.977-05:00::New House Christmasfication::Well, we're moved. Mostly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o4u_UcMaAUY/Uq9xAz-4tLI/AAAAAAAAgXY/XUiKhUnJH14/s1600/tree2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o4u_UcMaAUY/Uq9xAz-4tLI/AAAAAAAAgXY/XUiKhUnJH14/s640/tree2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Still have the cra(p)ft room to move over from the house next door, and some boxes 'o crap in the garage, but basically, we're moved and getting settled. Mostly.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKpR2IrXOdI/Uq9xbMYddwI/AAAAAAAAgXg/10dZkIZmdEk/s1600/fireplace1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKpR2IrXOdI/Uq9xbMYddwI/AAAAAAAAgXg/10dZkIZmdEk/s640/fireplace1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
There's no curtains up, and I've lost my underwear, but by golly, the mantel is Christmasfied.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KWj713ghyeE/Uq9xlAcRNLI/AAAAAAAAgXo/f0k1ECUXE1c/s1600/mantel1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KWj713ghyeE/Uq9xlAcRNLI/AAAAAAAAgXo/f0k1ECUXE1c/s640/mantel1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I only like (rein)deer at Christmastime.....the other trendy deer head thing creeps me out on the same scale as the Elf dude clogging up my Pinterest feed. No offense if that's your thing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fhu9DQLgc1I/Uq9yJJudLXI/AAAAAAAAgXw/NeVfD5VQaFk/s1600/mantel3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fhu9DQLgc1I/Uq9yJJudLXI/AAAAAAAAgXw/NeVfD5VQaFk/s640/mantel3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYwFrnxfNfs/Uq94cWQtHmI/AAAAAAAAgaA/beNBqbyK_5Y/s1600/mantel5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYwFrnxfNfs/Uq94cWQtHmI/AAAAAAAAgaA/beNBqbyK_5Y/s640/mantel5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
We didn't do a real tree for the first time in years and years and years....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9yQivtNyJck/Uq9ygju-wOI/AAAAAAAAgX4/KHARIG3Sin4/s1600/tree1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9yQivtNyJck/Uq9ygju-wOI/AAAAAAAAgX4/KHARIG3Sin4/s640/tree1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
...with just 10 days till Christmas we went with my cheesy, white Walmart tree.....which is dwarfed by my new great room, but it's good enough this year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bJkwahG1eQ/Uq9zdO6lBiI/AAAAAAAAgYQ/ozZ2eyX3KXs/s1600/tree3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bJkwahG1eQ/Uq9zdO6lBiI/AAAAAAAAgYQ/ozZ2eyX3KXs/s640/tree3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Found myself using lots of red stuff this year. Most of it I already had on hand, although some sah-weet vintage-type ornaments and red mercury glass candleholders found themselves in my cart here and there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G-GcaHKlVu4/Uq91OVptiAI/AAAAAAAAgZA/xYBGj7oKvH0/s1600/fireplace2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G-GcaHKlVu4/Uq91OVptiAI/AAAAAAAAgZA/xYBGj7oKvH0/s640/fireplace2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zxgM4YKTcOQ/Uq91IS0beSI/AAAAAAAAgY4/8e-FtfLvFv0/s1600/fireplace3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zxgM4YKTcOQ/Uq91IS0beSI/AAAAAAAAgY4/8e-FtfLvFv0/s640/fireplace3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
What I don't show you in this room is the lack of a couch, mismatched furniture that I will soon be painting now that I've finished up custom orders for the year, and a plethora of boxes yet to be unpacked. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wpgQ0EityZ0/Uq92MCl9iII/AAAAAAAAgZU/13WQIXMIJz0/s1600/fireplace5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wpgQ0EityZ0/Uq92MCl9iII/AAAAAAAAgZU/13WQIXMIJz0/s640/fireplace5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
So....you get snippets for now. I'll get some pics of the festification of the kitchen soon. Here's a sneaky-peeky:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OT_pm2fhKyk/Uq92dPT57DI/AAAAAAAAgZc/e531v2mYLLg/s1600/kitchen1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OT_pm2fhKyk/Uq92dPT57DI/AAAAAAAAgZc/e531v2mYLLg/s640/kitchen1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Back to unpacking. If you find my underwear, give me a shout.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Q3OQBJzCwY/Uq9w0ZKmHKI/AAAAAAAAgXU/iKbC-CQlg7w/s1600/fireplace4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Q3OQBJzCwY/Uq9w0ZKmHKI/AAAAAAAAgXU/iKbC-CQlg7w/s640/fireplace4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Sharing at <a href="http://www.cozylittlehouse.com/2013/12/tweak-it-tuesday-69.html">Cozy Little House,</a> <a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2013/12/195th-inspire-me-tuesday.html">A Stroll Thru Life,</a> <a href="http://modvintagelife.blogspot.com/2013/12/mod-mix-monday-132.html">Mod Vintage Life,</a> <a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-home-tour-party.html">Coastal Charm,</a> <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2013/12/welcome-to-the-2013-christmas-tour-of-homes.html">Nesting Place,</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SXvjpsQonFc/Uq95TkOkJuI/AAAAAAAAgaE/tvNKxYa1eZo/s1600/1aaaaaladyskater007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SXvjpsQonFc/Uq95TkOkJuI/AAAAAAAAgaE/tvNKxYa1eZo/s320/1aaaaaladyskater007.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-36150825670976388182013-12-02T19:08:00.000-05:002013-12-02T19:08:10.799-05:00::Need a Little Christmas::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJzAd3IhMy0/Up0fCYvaIeI/AAAAAAAAgW0/IDdD6_rsd-M/s1600/christmascheer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJzAd3IhMy0/Up0fCYvaIeI/AAAAAAAAgW0/IDdD6_rsd-M/s640/christmascheer.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Went next door to add a bit of Christmas cheer to the empty house. I'm so beyond frustrated with our builder, I've spent the better part of 2 hours composing a scathing letter, engaging all my powers of wit at sarcasm to rail against the stupidity of it all. <br />
<br />
And I'm a truth-teller. I must speak truth. When this whole mess is over, and I'm finally moved, I will write a whole series of posts about what to beware of when building a house. I wouldn't wish this journey on any bright-eyed, bushy-tailed blogger/designer. <br />
<br />
I flatter myself in letting them know in these ranty letter that I have a huge local following and wield much power in encouraging or discouraging their future customers via social media outlets like this blog and facebook. It's the only card I hold at this point. May not be an ace, but it's all I got. <br />
<br />
Hope you enjoyed your holiday weekend. I tried to be thankful I've not spent the last 9 months in an apartment. I tried to be thankful my grandbabies will live next door. I tried to not eat an entire pumpkin pie.<br />
<br />
Didn't have much success with that last item there.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-77009711892366163422013-11-29T20:18:00.002-05:002013-11-29T20:18:51.410-05:00::Christmas Past Pt 1: Mantels::So I'm feelin' kinda sorry for myself 'cause I won't be doing much holly day decorating this year. That would be thanks to my builder who is taking so ding dang long to get us closed. <br />
<br />
I thought I'd get all my mantels together from the past 4 years of blogging. It might make me feel more in the mood and give me something to post that fits with what everyone else is blogging. Just want to be a team player, ya know. Links go to the actual posts with more pics and stuff.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2009/12/stockings-were-hung-by-chimney-with.html"><span style="font-size: large;">My first Christmas blogging was 2009</span></a>. I attempted to go with the rustic 80's look of our fireplace at the time. Try not to be blinded by the shiny brass on the doors. I also about killed myself and anyone within striking range by making stockings. Which I don't show in this shot....but they're in the next one. So there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SNzIeztfVU8/Upk1fwHiNSI/AAAAAAAAgVY/bR_GItClh6Q/s1600/100_2027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="578" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SNzIeztfVU8/Upk1fwHiNSI/AAAAAAAAgVY/bR_GItClh6Q/s640/100_2027.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's take two with the evil stockings...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u6YfVbtGPig/Upk1ulYlnKI/AAAAAAAAgVg/6pTXLfRlCfo/s1600/100_2217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u6YfVbtGPig/Upk1ulYlnKI/AAAAAAAAgVg/6pTXLfRlCfo/s640/100_2217.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2010/11/glitterfied-christmas-mantel.html"><span style="font-size: large;">Christmas 2010</span></a> was a totally different look as we completely redid the fireplace and mantel. I glitterfied the entire thing and drank the coffee filter wreath kool-aid. I also made burlap stockings that I'm pretty sure someone from Country Living copied and put in their mag. Whatever. It's still one of my most popular and pinned posts to date. Voila!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dShrLc9Sf8Q/Upk23IsUL_I/AAAAAAAAgVs/ssdPuf9bvm4/s1600/IMG_3938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="604" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dShrLc9Sf8Q/Upk23IsUL_I/AAAAAAAAgVs/ssdPuf9bvm4/s640/IMG_3938.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
(If you want to read about how we painted the fireplace, <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2013/04/about-that-fireplace.html">click here</a>.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S_WUiJ5R54I/Upk5dD8b7gI/AAAAAAAAgWI/rZQ8AYfKdNY/s1600/IMG_3970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S_WUiJ5R54I/Upk5dD8b7gI/AAAAAAAAgWI/rZQ8AYfKdNY/s640/IMG_3970.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Next up is <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2011/11/ye-olde-mantel.html">Christmas 2011</a>, </span>which might be my favorite, but it didn't make a big splash in the blogosphere like the previous year. I repurposed Dollar Store white stockings instead of making some from scratch. Hallelujah. I was also drowning in ginormous pinecones due to my middle <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2012/01/crafting-diy-rustic-chic-wedding.html">daughter's rustic chic wedding</a> a week after Christmas. Boom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcGpcZt3fsQ/Upk4_QopqFI/AAAAAAAAgV4/pIoynB2bCqM/s1600/IMG_5287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcGpcZt3fsQ/Upk4_QopqFI/AAAAAAAAgV4/pIoynB2bCqM/s640/IMG_5287.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Loved it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wZxKGnYjbRw/Upk5IURkWuI/AAAAAAAAgWA/U45kn8JRYYk/s1600/IMG_5296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wZxKGnYjbRw/Upk5IURkWuI/AAAAAAAAgWA/U45kn8JRYYk/s640/IMG_5296.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-blue-and-whites.html"><span style="font-size: large;">Last year's Christmas mantel</span></a> was a study in aquas and whites. I've gathered quite a collection of blues and whites for my holly day decor, so it was pretty easy to put this together. Repurposed those white stocking from Dollar Store yet again. Ta Da!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gsf5N3Ynako/Upk679b3EyI/AAAAAAAAgWU/ArolT5xVPPM/s1600/IMG_5103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gsf5N3Ynako/Upk679b3EyI/AAAAAAAAgWU/ArolT5xVPPM/s640/IMG_5103.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was soft and wonderful.....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6EmFyQb57aI/Upk7RDmotaI/AAAAAAAAgWc/V0RSLM1DMcc/s1600/IMG_5030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6EmFyQb57aI/Upk7RDmotaI/AAAAAAAAgWc/V0RSLM1DMcc/s640/IMG_5030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Which brings me to this year......in a temporary home with no mantel. :( <br />
<br />
There's a really awesome one next door in our new house, so I hope there will still be time to decorate it once we close and move. I may be posting Christmas mantel decor in mid-January. You never know.<br />
<br />
So which is your favorite?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8pLtZCmFjrY/Upk73fnopmI/AAAAAAAAgWk/ClM4ZPzVXiM/s1600/turkeydaygfairy005c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8pLtZCmFjrY/Upk73fnopmI/AAAAAAAAgWk/ClM4ZPzVXiM/s320/turkeydaygfairy005c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-31924094518541898472013-11-27T19:57:00.000-05:002016-09-12T19:18:23.392-04:00::Tour My New House::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
PSSSST...I'm no longer blogging here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can now find me at</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.acottagegirl.com/">www.acottagegirl.com</a></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gr89ONo8MRs/UpaMAvC4NQI/AAAAAAAAgPs/sy31lmB8lzs/s1600/house1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gr89ONo8MRs/UpaMAvC4NQI/AAAAAAAAgPs/sy31lmB8lzs/s640/house1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So, the house is pretty much done.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, today was the third scheduled closing that was cancelled. :( <br />
<br />
There was a mess-up with the electric company, so we have no power....and with the storms that hit our area last week, they are behind. So we keep waiting. And waiting. <br />
<br />
In the meantime, I thought I'd go over and take some decent pics. Bogart decided to play Tour Guide Barbie....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Come on in.....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ridkLURNXHw/UpaMCSLEf2I/AAAAAAAAgQE/jzt3jrgztqQ/s1600/house2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ridkLURNXHw/UpaMCSLEf2I/AAAAAAAAgQE/jzt3jrgztqQ/s640/house2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Bogart notices someone is waiting for us....Robyn Rose left her stuffed kitty to watch over stuff while we're waiting to move....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_dOY_DmpTY/UpaMJxhFBoI/AAAAAAAAgRw/_3ZbN8tUCKo/s1600/house3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_dOY_DmpTY/UpaMJxhFBoI/AAAAAAAAgRw/_3ZbN8tUCKo/s640/house3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyway, this is the view as you enter my house. One of the things I LOVE is all the arched doorways. There's lots of craftsman details throughout.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're yummy :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yz9nefTaRqI/UpaL-dMt5hI/AAAAAAAAgPM/xwoL9Febsj8/s1600/house14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yz9nefTaRqI/UpaL-dMt5hI/AAAAAAAAgPM/xwoL9Febsj8/s640/house14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kitchen.....lots going on here, and I'm hoping it will all congeal once I get it decorated. The builder dude did our walk-thru with us yesterday and mentioned that I should take pics and upload them to Houzz. He thinks it looks super awesome. He loved that we didn't do standard stuff.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqTTXan-9PA/UpaMJlQjsNI/AAAAAAAAgR0/G41OPIXnl60/s1600/house5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqTTXan-9PA/UpaMJlQjsNI/AAAAAAAAgR0/G41OPIXnl60/s640/house5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Laminate butcherblock. Will replace with real butcherblock eventually methinks. Cabs are painted "Watery" by Sherwin Williams.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LYtU6uqh0K0/UpaL9KI5rdI/AAAAAAAAgO8/uK0qh7Ol85k/s1600/house11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LYtU6uqh0K0/UpaL9KI5rdI/AAAAAAAAgO8/uK0qh7Ol85k/s640/house11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Didn't do a farmhouse sink, but did go with a single basin cast iron with this faucet....finish is called 'champagne bronze'....because obviously if they called it 'antique brass' no one would want it *rolling eyes*<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5iD89hsupjM/UpaMLWWdIvI/AAAAAAAAgSY/EUdnWQkMtaQ/s1600/house8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5iD89hsupjM/UpaMLWWdIvI/AAAAAAAAgSY/EUdnWQkMtaQ/s640/house8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's the other counter with some blue in it to coordinate with the cabs. LOVE LOVE LOVE my antique brass pulls! Not so down with the knobs, but they're easily changed out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NI64vfWqqYo/UpaMLmiWhXI/AAAAAAAAgSQ/scg4ibzBPD4/s1600/house9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NI64vfWqqYo/UpaMLmiWhXI/AAAAAAAAgSQ/scg4ibzBPD4/s640/house9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Floors are laminate too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hJkFQUukLUU/UpaL9CWgoMI/AAAAAAAAgO4/94hfWMUjbtY/s1600/house10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hJkFQUukLUU/UpaL9CWgoMI/AAAAAAAAgO4/94hfWMUjbtY/s640/house10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Uppers are a (bad) color match to Gliddens 'Antique White' which is used on the trim and walls throughout the house. Not sure I like how taupe it looks. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vrPwLHDpDms/UpaL93TRegI/AAAAAAAAgPA/-d5rUdPqVPc/s1600/house12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vrPwLHDpDms/UpaL93TRegI/AAAAAAAAgPA/-d5rUdPqVPc/s640/house12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Also, I have 2 industrial pendants to replace the ORB ones. Walls are Martha Stewart 'Spring Melt'...a sweet blue/green/grey.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WknqhNQJR6U/UpaMA6BINOI/AAAAAAAAgPo/D4tg2RZMOos/s1600/house13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WknqhNQJR6U/UpaMA6BINOI/AAAAAAAAgPo/D4tg2RZMOos/s640/house13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bogart is showing me where he'll be stationed much of the time...by the door to watch evil squirrels off the back covered porch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kc46Tz4eJ6w/UpaNymsq_3I/AAAAAAAAgSs/eAV4OJVBF3U/s1600/Ihouse26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kc46Tz4eJ6w/UpaNymsq_3I/AAAAAAAAgSs/eAV4OJVBF3U/s640/Ihouse26.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Looking into the dining area (laundry/mud room off in the distance...) Chandy will also be replaced with a super cool antique brass one I found on craigslist from a 70's house. It's all kinds of awesome.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ye-CxIxKQPE/UpaMLAygRWI/AAAAAAAAgR8/TlLFyQAhgfo/s1600/house7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ye-CxIxKQPE/UpaMLAygRWI/AAAAAAAAgR8/TlLFyQAhgfo/s640/house7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And here's looking into the great room....master is that doorway on the right.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0qDrLOdeEM/UpaMK-_xnBI/AAAAAAAAgR4/kxI5RuxJE7Y/s1600/house6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0qDrLOdeEM/UpaMK-_xnBI/AAAAAAAAgR4/kxI5RuxJE7Y/s640/house6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Looking back to the entryway....to the right is the office/den...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zd1nU64Sk3I/UpaL_DtvPBI/AAAAAAAAgPU/MsuAAYz9ZqY/s1600/house15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zd1nU64Sk3I/UpaL_DtvPBI/AAAAAAAAgPU/MsuAAYz9ZqY/s640/house15.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
See?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E5Dt19Wf_1U/UpaMMeZsKNI/AAAAAAAAgSU/P0_8gY3xe-Y/s1600/house4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E5Dt19Wf_1U/UpaMMeZsKNI/AAAAAAAAgSU/P0_8gY3xe-Y/s640/house4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And standing in the office looking across the way is an alcove with a coat closet and our 1/2 bath...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pgPdXYv1hZo/UpaMGF_9tyI/AAAAAAAAgRA/XWUwN_arR9o/s1600/house28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pgPdXYv1hZo/UpaMGF_9tyI/AAAAAAAAgRA/XWUwN_arR9o/s640/house28.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They hung my gramma's antique mirror for me :) This bath has a pedestal sink, but it's super modern and sleek. I'll have to cottagefy it with a skirt.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h5qVslCgohI/UpaMG0jgzJI/AAAAAAAAgRE/DwRRMv3eT6s/s1600/house29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h5qVslCgohI/UpaMG0jgzJI/AAAAAAAAgRE/DwRRMv3eT6s/s640/house29.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Back to the great room...got big plans for it after we get settled. It's a blank canvas now!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MeWpfOX2lMU/UpaL_24jo5I/AAAAAAAAgPc/Rm_Yixi1Akk/s1600/house16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MeWpfOX2lMU/UpaL_24jo5I/AAAAAAAAgPc/Rm_Yixi1Akk/s640/house16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Love the vaulted ceiling and huge windows...which look small in this pic, but you'll have to take my word for it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E0tXxDeTYk4/UpaMARhdYGI/AAAAAAAAgPw/9GESDzwuLek/s1600/house17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E0tXxDeTYk4/UpaMARhdYGI/AAAAAAAAgPw/9GESDzwuLek/s640/house17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Looking back to the front of the house from the fireplace.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bQD4Cc_3IpE/UpaMEzSn-fI/AAAAAAAAgQs/dkT_TaC_H1s/s1600/house18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bQD4Cc_3IpE/UpaMEzSn-fI/AAAAAAAAgQs/dkT_TaC_H1s/s640/house18.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I think we may do a window seat for this corner. Bogart is preparing to stalk squirrels....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s2entEduAkY/UpaMB-f3gNI/AAAAAAAAgP8/DZKuuh-uxf8/s1600/house19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s2entEduAkY/UpaMB-f3gNI/AAAAAAAAgP8/DZKuuh-uxf8/s640/house19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That cut out under the stairs will be a desk area/family command center. Or a piano.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No sure yet. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xxso7To7DpE/UpaMJPO9kXI/AAAAAAAAgRg/V6MpDXfSc04/s1600/house31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xxso7To7DpE/UpaMJPO9kXI/AAAAAAAAgRg/V6MpDXfSc04/s640/house31.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Just off the great room is the Master suite. Love the wee windows :) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GDQzcL_MoDI/UpaMC668VPI/AAAAAAAAgQM/p0dwILOrI88/s1600/house20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GDQzcL_MoDI/UpaMC668VPI/AAAAAAAAgQM/p0dwILOrI88/s640/house20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Lots of light, so I chose Martha Stewart's 'Brown Alpaca' for the walls. I used it in my old kitchen. It's a marvelous warm shade of brown....not too yellow, not too taupey/grey. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FP6pW650wZ0/UpaMDZSBwVI/AAAAAAAAgQQ/JNto_ySlFB8/s1600/house21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FP6pW650wZ0/UpaMDZSBwVI/AAAAAAAAgQQ/JNto_ySlFB8/s640/house21.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Looking back out to the main part of the house.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ToehPc3T5Vc/UpaMGcvDd4I/AAAAAAAAgQ8/4YJJWFCHisc/s1600/house22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ToehPc3T5Vc/UpaMGcvDd4I/AAAAAAAAgQ8/4YJJWFCHisc/s640/house22.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's my bath! I have waited 28 years to have a big tub....I've gone over to sit in it just to practice.<br />
Pocket door is cool too :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TPXZIdO4iSc/UpaMEPmUY5I/AAAAAAAAgQc/l7NGpLuS_MU/s1600/house23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TPXZIdO4iSc/UpaMEPmUY5I/AAAAAAAAgQc/l7NGpLuS_MU/s640/house23.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Marble-look laminate in here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PthHEwvG8JQ/UpaME5k1aFI/AAAAAAAAgQk/Fl2tIUGBxlc/s1600/house24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PthHEwvG8JQ/UpaME5k1aFI/AAAAAAAAgQk/Fl2tIUGBxlc/s640/house24.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Reflection from mirror to stool cubby and walk-in closet with another pocket door.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7DXQVs0CIVY/UpaMFt39hiI/AAAAAAAAgQw/feYSH6avwk4/s1600/house25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7DXQVs0CIVY/UpaMFt39hiI/AAAAAAAAgQw/feYSH6avwk4/s640/house25.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Nothing fancy for the shower because we had to fit the big tub in the floorplan. Yes, that's beaded board around the tub. Duh.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-36l4Ckd-87E/UpaMIk00L2I/AAAAAAAAgRc/cY_tRtDqM1A/s1600/house27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-36l4Ckd-87E/UpaMIk00L2I/AAAAAAAAgRc/cY_tRtDqM1A/s640/house27.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, that's all I got for today. Bogart's ready to go. I'll show you the upstairs another time...as there's no power, it's kinda dark for pics.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uni0OuAtzdo/UpaMHgB12dI/AAAAAAAAgRY/AcMxHyef-tQ/s1600/house30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uni0OuAtzdo/UpaMHgB12dI/AAAAAAAAgRY/AcMxHyef-tQ/s640/house30.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
It's been torture to see everyone decorating for the holidays when my new house sits empty next door....we were supposed to close Nov 8th. I hope we'll be moving in the next couple weeks so I can start christmasfying it! <br />
<br />
If you have any questions, give me a shout. And hey, have a happy Thanksgiving!<br />
Sharing at Start at Home's<a href="http://startathome.blogspot.com/2013/11/furniture-and-paint-party-25-happy.html"> Furniture and Paint party</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D1MLeQYb95E/UpaUwu7SlnI/AAAAAAAAgTA/TQSN5iAtoMo/s1600/turkeydaygfairy005c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D1MLeQYb95E/UpaUwu7SlnI/AAAAAAAAgTA/TQSN5iAtoMo/s320/turkeydaygfairy005c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-32581091581785329732013-11-13T21:05:00.001-05:002013-11-13T21:06:02.080-05:00::Bloggers Making My World Go Round::There are many times I think I should just let this blog give up the ghost......<br />
<br />
Other times I think I could really make this place hoppin' and popular and trendy and and and....<br />
<br />
Most times I float in between those two extremes....I think, eh, it is what it is. I'm here sometimes, I'm not here sometimes. Eh.<br />
<br />
But let me just say one of the most beautiful things about blogging (and why I always hesitate to quit) is the wicked cool, kind and talented gals I've connected with thru the years. <br />
<br />
Cases in point (there's two in this post):<br />
<br />
Julie Rose of <a href="http://followyourheartwoodworking.blogspot.ca/">follow your heart woodworking</a>. This chick has skillz. Mad skillz.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Behold:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lJmbxAgocuo/UoQe-dkLQGI/AAAAAAAAf9A/lXasUX3J4MU/s1600/DSC_0709+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lJmbxAgocuo/UoQe-dkLQGI/AAAAAAAAf9A/lXasUX3J4MU/s640/DSC_0709+(2).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://followyourheartwoodworking.blogspot.ca/2013/11/the-serendipity-house-shaped-sign.html">from her post giving the tutorial on how she made this INCREDIBLE signage for me</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Look familiar?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tr_YHZDvQqo/UoQfOr2NrdI/AAAAAAAAf9I/OdJEiNpwqGM/s1600/headercollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tr_YHZDvQqo/UoQfOr2NrdI/AAAAAAAAf9I/OdJEiNpwqGM/s640/headercollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://theserendipityhouse.blogspot.com/">From my header on my biz site</a></div>
I know. Seriously.<br />
<br />
Julie contacted me about making my biz logo as she was so taken with the vintage graphic (from <a href="http://thegraphicsfairy.com/">The Graphics Fairy</a>, BTW.)<br />
<br />
Who was I to refuse? No one, that's who. Bring it on.<br />
<br />
And she did. Beautifully. <br />
<br />
Since I'll be selling my furniture out of my new house, which is the REAL Serendipity House and the inspiration for starting my furniture refinishing biz, the sign is PERFECT. Yes it is.<br />
<br />
I can't wait to hang it over my blue beadboard doors to welcome friends, family and customers!<br />
<br />
Julie makes custom logo signs.....and she's all about collaboration....so if you want one, <b><a href="http://followyourheartwoodworking.ca/">contact her here</a>.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
My heartfelt thanks to Julie for the time and energy she took to make such a special piece for me. :)<br />
<br />
Case in point #2:<br />
<br />
Rebecca of <a href="http://www.olderandwisor.com/">Older and Wisor</a>.<br />
<br />
Peeps. You need Rebecca in your life. Go. <br />
<br />
She is a crafter of supreme ability and humor (which is most important). She also wraps crap better than Martha herself. She was even on TV showing off her crap-wrapping super powers.<br />
<br />
So I got one of her thing-a-ma-bobs. Happens to be a brooch, which doesn't rhyme with smooch. <br />
But which *is* what I wanted to do to her when I got her package in the mail. Wouldn't you?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dwBwKi-A5OM/UoQq50EENrI/AAAAAAAAgAk/BdBaOFjUJjs/s1600/rebecca4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dwBwKi-A5OM/UoQq50EENrI/AAAAAAAAgAk/BdBaOFjUJjs/s640/rebecca4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Look at her artistry! Come on now.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ieoLu6Eurak/UoQn3byPsDI/AAAAAAAAf98/1szakbOAHD4/s1600/rebecca1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ieoLu6Eurak/UoQn3byPsDI/AAAAAAAAf98/1szakbOAHD4/s640/rebecca1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
She wrapped my<strike> crap</strike> pretty in this handmade puff pouch thingy....with the cereal of my choice, of course.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jBqXO_9O29U/UoQn80W76CI/AAAAAAAAf-M/_nslftYelYM/s1600/rebecca3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jBqXO_9O29U/UoQn80W76CI/AAAAAAAAf-M/_nslftYelYM/s640/rebecca3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Which was Robyn's favorite part. Of course.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j63WWFhUmhA/UoQn5n3PgmI/AAAAAAAAf-I/iqd3tUvtw9k/s1600/rebecca2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j63WWFhUmhA/UoQn5n3PgmI/AAAAAAAAf-I/iqd3tUvtw9k/s640/rebecca2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
So here's what was inside!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uejf6AFoPd4/UoQsBleQZFI/AAAAAAAAgA4/kYKtvkzzbOM/s1600/rebecca7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uejf6AFoPd4/UoQsBleQZFI/AAAAAAAAgA4/kYKtvkzzbOM/s640/rebecca7.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I may safely say I'm one of the only people I know in NE Indiana with a flower pin made from Dr. Pepper.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-37erIhKhxW4/UoQoF941WHI/AAAAAAAAf_M/EmhVKC9HJik/s1600/rebecca6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-37erIhKhxW4/UoQoF941WHI/AAAAAAAAf_M/EmhVKC9HJik/s640/rebecca6.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>I loves it</b>. I actually attached it to my purse so folks could see the awesomeness each and every time I go out. Which may or may not be often, but still. <br />
<br />
You can get your own soda pop awesomeness in Rebecca's Etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheRecyclePin?ref=em">The Recycle Pin</a>. We can be soda pop pin sistas. <br />
<br />
So I rest my case. Blogging has brought some unbelieveably talented and kind womenfolk into my life (Julie and Rebecca being supreme examples of each).<br />
<br />
Therefore, you will continue to be subjected to my sporatic postings and wit. You're welcome.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pw_ZY6q6jq4/UoQuYE0xP2I/AAAAAAAAgBM/L1V3M6YULpw/s1600/turkeydaygfairy005c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pw_ZY6q6jq4/UoQuYE0xP2I/AAAAAAAAgBM/L1V3M6YULpw/s320/turkeydaygfairy005c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-83127219153458448302013-11-12T09:18:00.002-05:002013-11-12T09:21:20.605-05:00::Gracie's Big Day::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's a good thing everyone has phones with cameras these days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
'Cause Mothers of Brides ain't got no time for dat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We're too busy making sure the decorations don't blow away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's a smattering of photos from friends and family of my 3rd daughter Gracie's Big Day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(I'll post some from the Real Photographer when I get them).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2p4u7FvOcg/UoI0WxoEO5I/AAAAAAAAf70/uBTOOLAzV6A/s1600/gracegreg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2p4u7FvOcg/UoI0WxoEO5I/AAAAAAAAf70/uBTOOLAzV6A/s640/gracegreg.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Stephenson.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oBmxoiwty48/UoIzxF53KrI/AAAAAAAAf6s/Qgo8XmICCX4/s1600/wedding3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oBmxoiwty48/UoIzxF53KrI/AAAAAAAAf6s/Qgo8XmICCX4/s640/wedding3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Me with my youngest: Ben the Bigger and Sam the Smaller.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L5USf2EhNQU/UoI0mQ3kZNI/AAAAAAAAf8U/YnYtPUzvHh8/s1600/aisle1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L5USf2EhNQU/UoI0mQ3kZNI/AAAAAAAAf8U/YnYtPUzvHh8/s640/aisle1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last walk with Daddy.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GWDArGHqhHg/UoI0OnaaxYI/AAAAAAAAf7k/zQ4QRbOQh40/s1600/dadwedding16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GWDArGHqhHg/UoI0OnaaxYI/AAAAAAAAf7k/zQ4QRbOQh40/s640/dadwedding16.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My grandbaby Robyn Rose (when did she get this big????)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NTR1sK31Nt4/UoI0B6s52mI/AAAAAAAAf7E/LGnyIJLIz3I/s1600/wedding15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NTR1sK31Nt4/UoI0B6s52mI/AAAAAAAAf7E/LGnyIJLIz3I/s640/wedding15.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We had a gorgeous day, a bit nippy, but the colors were still showing off next to the river.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Yes, I made all the ding dang decorations, as per usual, but thankfully this daughter was more about her dress and the actual ceremony....not as much into a <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2012/01/crafting-diy-rustic-chic-wedding.html">craftapalooza like my middle daughter's wedding.</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AnrDz3pTur0/UoIz246vkwI/AAAAAAAAf68/5_-0s5c0bdE/s1600/wedding7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AnrDz3pTur0/UoIz246vkwI/AAAAAAAAf68/5_-0s5c0bdE/s640/wedding7.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Unbelieveably gorgeous bride!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8Dm7LvXiCI/UoI0FACbP1I/AAAAAAAAf7M/q0X__ufBxQA/s1600/wedding4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8Dm7LvXiCI/UoI0FACbP1I/AAAAAAAAf7M/q0X__ufBxQA/s640/wedding4.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Maids....left to right: my daughter in law Andrea, my 22 week preggers Kristen (also Robyn's mama), my oldest Maddie.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0W3fQbpCrY8/UoI0ITrNRfI/AAAAAAAAf7U/yn3Yb4rk__A/s1600/wedding17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0W3fQbpCrY8/UoI0ITrNRfI/AAAAAAAAf7U/yn3Yb4rk__A/s640/wedding17.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Such a pretty setting! So grateful for decent weather as the groom had his heart set on an outdoor wedding...which is pretty dicey for November in Indiana.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdVDg_8fGJY/UoI0Zp9Ws6I/AAAAAAAAf78/7IRqHcvMdeY/s1600/pappaprobyn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdVDg_8fGJY/UoI0Zp9Ws6I/AAAAAAAAf78/7IRqHcvMdeY/s640/pappaprobyn.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Me and the Hubster with Robyn Rose....photo bomb compliments of my youngest Sam the Smaller. (Love that dimple!)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCcQr90Izi4/UoI0z5xEVGI/AAAAAAAAf8c/z3Jwd4hv0y4/s1600/IMG_6972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCcQr90Izi4/UoI0z5xEVGI/AAAAAAAAf8c/z3Jwd4hv0y4/s640/IMG_6972.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I gave a plain grocery store cake Kim Kardashian status.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUGHvbEuI6M/UoI03vf5d-I/AAAAAAAAf8k/r72qCriqnPE/s1600/IMG_6969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUGHvbEuI6M/UoI03vf5d-I/AAAAAAAAf8k/r72qCriqnPE/s640/IMG_6969.JPG" width="472" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Couldn't resist throwing this one in there....my daughter Kristen with Robyn Rose.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RG6qEwNkob0/UoI1JIBjsWI/AAAAAAAAf8s/2U3UwkYPUOE/s1600/wedding2-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RG6qEwNkob0/UoI1JIBjsWI/AAAAAAAAf8s/2U3UwkYPUOE/s640/wedding2-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yay! Let's go eat cake!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-45636871298060456562013-10-30T20:52:00.001-04:002013-10-30T20:52:52.277-04:00::Miss Me?::Helllloooooo out there in bloglandia!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--70XlhCQPZU/UnGmci4BLCI/AAAAAAAAfu0/qSi6jAOGBIQ/s1600/IMG_0920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--70XlhCQPZU/UnGmci4BLCI/AAAAAAAAfu0/qSi6jAOGBIQ/s640/IMG_0920.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>(message left for us from the stone masons working on our house)</i></div>
<br />
As usual, when life gets overwhelming and things need to shift, ye olde blogge is the first to go. <br />
<br />
Here's a quick overview of my last 6 weeks:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--aHA1gJ1AGM/UnGiF8Yxt6I/AAAAAAAAftg/qxY2-FUkutE/s1600/stock-illustration-11852700-hits-the-fan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--aHA1gJ1AGM/UnGiF8Yxt6I/AAAAAAAAftg/qxY2-FUkutE/s320/stock-illustration-11852700-hits-the-fan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The family had the sickies, and I had some doctor visits and testing due to constant migraines. More on that another time....<br />
<br />
I painted up some new pieces, had some custom paint orders and a couple benefit auction shows for The Serendipity House:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XVfj_6bhvgY/UnGo1B1r44I/AAAAAAAAfvA/J3SMEZH7ZWU/s1600/IMG_0922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XVfj_6bhvgY/UnGo1B1r44I/AAAAAAAAfvA/J3SMEZH7ZWU/s640/IMG_0922.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xhz-vz4Y--U/UnGi74AmoFI/AAAAAAAAft4/-CeIgUzqVzQ/s1600/IMG_0927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xhz-vz4Y--U/UnGi74AmoFI/AAAAAAAAft4/-CeIgUzqVzQ/s640/IMG_0927.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>(this one was for Cancer Services of Fort Wayne....took my pink vanity set and highlighted my momma's beautiful picture to honor her.)</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I went to Disney in Florida with my sis and some cousins last week....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tKh5n9geutA/UnGirUHnMKI/AAAAAAAAftw/xO918bXiU8Q/s1600/IMG_0969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tKh5n9geutA/UnGirUHnMKI/AAAAAAAAftw/xO918bXiU8Q/s640/IMG_0969.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Been scrambling to get stuff ready for my daughter's wedding<b> this coming weekend</b>:<br />
(Here's a shot from the bridal shower....toilet paper dresses, my daughter Grace on the right is the bride-to-be, my daughter Kristen is on the left.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--CCMXp5yrEw/UnGkaxoIxYI/AAAAAAAAfuo/akwiQudQIlc/s1600/IMG_0918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--CCMXp5yrEw/UnGkaxoIxYI/AAAAAAAAfuo/akwiQudQIlc/s640/IMG_0918.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
And of course staying on top of the new house build....we're supposed to close in 3 weeks! <br />
<br />
Here's some pics of our kitchen.....I got brave and did two-tone beadboard cabinets with antique gold hardware. Yes I did. Blue cabs are Sherwin Williams 'Watery', white is Glidden "Antique White".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pd_W5MLCdNU/UnGjzWlRfoI/AAAAAAAAfuA/SUhPYJTwbrU/s1600/kitchen1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pd_W5MLCdNU/UnGjzWlRfoI/AAAAAAAAfuA/SUhPYJTwbrU/s640/kitchen1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Island is fake wood laminate, but hope to replace it in the near future with real butcher block.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4kkm2-AgGYA/UnGj2QIG0QI/AAAAAAAAfuI/ro-XyRTiKgI/s1600/kitchen2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4kkm2-AgGYA/UnGj2QIG0QI/AAAAAAAAfuI/ro-XyRTiKgI/s640/kitchen2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Walls are Martha Stewart 'Spring Melt'....all appliances will be white.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-54a0McrNBbo/UnGj7WXJ9BI/AAAAAAAAfuY/M7FKciDRjW4/s1600/kitchen4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-54a0McrNBbo/UnGj7WXJ9BI/AAAAAAAAfuY/M7FKciDRjW4/s640/kitchen4.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Couldn't do a farmhouse sink because of the corner, but did do a white cast iron single bowl with a vintage look faucet in 'champagne bronze'...which is basically liked a brushed gold....instead of brushed nickel.<br />
I'm seriously in love with it. Seriously.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9WrOq0ooAg/UnGj41IlXhI/AAAAAAAAfuQ/Yshwqw_AN7Y/s1600/kitchen3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9WrOq0ooAg/UnGj41IlXhI/AAAAAAAAfuQ/Yshwqw_AN7Y/s640/kitchen3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's the stone fireplace.....planning some planking action in this room, maybe a built in corner seat by the windows.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PE6XpYZ8Cg/UnGj9pGx3pI/AAAAAAAAfug/tnA7jhn4gHw/s1600/fireplace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PE6XpYZ8Cg/UnGj9pGx3pI/AAAAAAAAfug/tnA7jhn4gHw/s640/fireplace.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
So October flew by with all the happenings. I missed decorating for the fall....and anxious to be in the new place for the holidays. Still overwhelmed, but excited and grateful for the goodness happening on all levels. <br />
<br />
Thanks for the emails checking up on me! I apologize for not returning them as computer time just needed to take a back seat to Real Life for awhile :) I'm looking forward to jumping back into painting and decorating once the wedding has been enjoyed and moving commences.<br />
<br />
I'll try to post some pics from the wedding next week, then more sneak peeks of the house :)<br />
Happy Trick or Treating!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XmHlJrJsCkM/UnGps7CHMCI/AAAAAAAAfvI/DHteygHlZo0/s1600/ravengfairy006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XmHlJrJsCkM/UnGps7CHMCI/AAAAAAAAfvI/DHteygHlZo0/s320/ravengfairy006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-7531615253359642282013-09-07T19:19:00.000-04:002016-09-12T19:18:55.675-04:00::A Photo Shoot with BH&G::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
PSSSST...I'm no longer blogging here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can now find me at</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.acottagegirl.com/">www.acottagegirl.com</a></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
---------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had to wait until Big News #3 actually happened before I could post!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">Back in the early summer I was contacted by a field editor from Meredith Corp about my kids' kitchen.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">They'd seen the <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2013/04/my-kids-kitchen-before-and-afters.html">'before and after' post I wrote</a> after I'd helped paint their kitchen cabinets and walls and offered a sounding board for my DIL as she picked finishes.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eai1ZuE4ZJs/Uiun2aCYsTI/AAAAAAAAfmg/LUeSEI5QZdU/s1600/photoshoot6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eai1ZuE4ZJs/Uiun2aCYsTI/AAAAAAAAfmg/LUeSEI5QZdU/s640/photoshoot6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They came on Thursday...Betsy was the stylist and will also write the copy. She was so so great!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She brought a ton of fun stuff for staging.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I got to fill the potato and onion bins.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, and that dish detergent decanter at the sink.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm just that talented, yo.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gG1kRFFrKRs/Uiun8n-3hdI/AAAAAAAAfmo/TIOumAhjmis/s1600/photoshoot27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gG1kRFFrKRs/Uiun8n-3hdI/AAAAAAAAfmo/TIOumAhjmis/s640/photoshoot27.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is Justin, who was just thrilled that I was taking this pic.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Besides offering his talent for taping the blind cords out of sight, he was the photoshop magician :)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A6HP0l4bIrk/Uiun_zAOfgI/AAAAAAAAfmw/BOC6llTQAoQ/s1600/photoshoot11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A6HP0l4bIrk/Uiun_zAOfgI/AAAAAAAAfmw/BOC6llTQAoQ/s640/photoshoot11.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This here is Warner, the main photographer who also offered me some tips with my own Canon. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not that I remember what he told me.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I0fUJW7Xcxc/UiuoBspaMPI/AAAAAAAAfm4/pCKB8wAzXWE/s1600/photoshoot5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I0fUJW7Xcxc/UiuoBspaMPI/AAAAAAAAfm4/pCKB8wAzXWE/s640/photoshoot5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is Warner's gear, which I drooled over.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vv_aJU_oQIU/UiuoDbRTFDI/AAAAAAAAfnA/tO70uwtnI7c/s1600/photoshoot3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vv_aJU_oQIU/UiuoDbRTFDI/AAAAAAAAfnA/tO70uwtnI7c/s640/photoshoot3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is my DIL's cat Bermen, who claimed Warner's gear for the afternoon.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uG6OnTKUWL0/UiuoOFkY74I/AAAAAAAAfns/gNG25w_nTX4/s1600/photoshoot15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uG6OnTKUWL0/UiuoOFkY74I/AAAAAAAAfns/gNG25w_nTX4/s640/photoshoot15.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Including this light tree as well.....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dxcdVTo-Uec/UiuoMTkxXAI/AAAAAAAAfnk/yzmyZ9hAYr4/s1600/photoshoot14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dxcdVTo-Uec/UiuoMTkxXAI/AAAAAAAAfnk/yzmyZ9hAYr4/s640/photoshoot14.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is my DIL Andrea showing Warner how to make friends with Charlie, another of her brood.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ou92GRUxvg/UiuoKrYrprI/AAAAAAAAfnY/wEEi3EM4HfA/s1600/photoshoot13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ou92GRUxvg/UiuoKrYrprI/AAAAAAAAfnY/wEEi3EM4HfA/s640/photoshoot13.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ou92GRUxvg/UiuoKrYrprI/AAAAAAAAfnY/wEEi3EM4HfA/s1600/photoshoot13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ou92GRUxvg/UiuoKrYrprI/AAAAAAAAfnY/wEEi3EM4HfA/s1600/photoshoot13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ou92GRUxvg/UiuoKrYrprI/AAAAAAAAfnY/wEEi3EM4HfA/s1600/photoshoot13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: center;">This is Kingsley with Charlie who thought all the cords were new chew toys....</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2SL2DN_jZis/UiuoQ5W259I/AAAAAAAAfn0/1GW6UmtF7x0/s1600/photoshoot16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2SL2DN_jZis/UiuoQ5W259I/AAAAAAAAfn0/1GW6UmtF7x0/s640/photoshoot16.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ok, enough of the cats....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Betsy was great at asking Andrea how she liked the staging and open to her input.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because my DIL also works on photoshoots as a graphic designer, it was really awesome that they included her in lots of the decisions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e7FI2zu4hLA/UiuoIB17koI/AAAAAAAAfnQ/WNPwBfn6pdA/s1600/photoshoot9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e7FI2zu4hLA/UiuoIB17koI/AAAAAAAAfnQ/WNPwBfn6pdA/s640/photoshoot9.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>(that industrial island was bought for the shoot, and the kids get to keep it!)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here they are discussing 'tangents' and 'hot spots' and other tech speak about the first shot.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That first shot takes FOREVER to get. They tweak the staging, the lighting, the angle, etc.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once they get that, the rest goes fairly quickly. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hTQItSM3ovI/UiuoXtwqD6I/AAAAAAAAfoM/zduAII0vcRg/s1600/photoshoot18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hTQItSM3ovI/UiuoXtwqD6I/AAAAAAAAfoM/zduAII0vcRg/s640/photoshoot18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I tried to stand out of the way and take pictures of really interesting things like the messy table and cats.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(See how well I filled the onions and 'taters in the baskets back there?)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dh5y0xBxtNY/UiuoUDzhANI/AAAAAAAAfn4/8Z6ZfNyBrkg/s1600/photoshoot4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dh5y0xBxtNY/UiuoUDzhANI/AAAAAAAAfn4/8Z6ZfNyBrkg/s640/photoshoot4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Warner and Andrea discussing another shot.....also, please notice how cool she painted her chairs!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We're hoping they use a shot that included them.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SKBV-mWW22I/UiuoVbAec-I/AAAAAAAAfoA/L7Db_dqa6HI/s1600/bhgshoot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SKBV-mWW22I/UiuoVbAec-I/AAAAAAAAfoA/L7Db_dqa6HI/s640/bhgshoot.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Justin doing his thing....offering suggestions on lighting and so forth as each shot appeared on his monitor.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Betsy froofs in the background.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(And there's a bit of the <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2013/09/nother-one-and-hint.html">crendenza I showed you yesterday</a> that I painted up for the kids.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQosSAYKBLY/UiuoEyfiFhI/AAAAAAAAfnM/QOyzQL7gOcg/s1600/photoshoot2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQosSAYKBLY/UiuoEyfiFhI/AAAAAAAAfnM/QOyzQL7gOcg/s640/photoshoot2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I managed a few artsy shots of some props and the kitchen space, but I don't want to give too much away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TCBCKm7qxYI/UiuoZmKs3-I/AAAAAAAAfoQ/xvcvSj2bDC4/s1600/photoshoot19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TCBCKm7qxYI/UiuoZmKs3-I/AAAAAAAAfoQ/xvcvSj2bDC4/s640/photoshoot19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xitaHcCTKoc/UiuocH2K-ZI/AAAAAAAAfoY/YQENLtzaNeY/s1600/photoshoot17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xitaHcCTKoc/UiuocH2K-ZI/AAAAAAAAfoY/YQENLtzaNeY/s640/photoshoot17.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RaglPMS-pNM/UiuoeoWR7cI/AAAAAAAAfog/jKgRroofvYE/s1600/photoshoot20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RaglPMS-pNM/UiuoeoWR7cI/AAAAAAAAfog/jKgRroofvYE/s640/photoshoot20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Doesn't it look great?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HIQLDAH2JyQ/UiuohpjAcoI/AAAAAAAAfoo/v426jAjQQD4/s1600/photoshoot25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HIQLDAH2JyQ/UiuohpjAcoI/AAAAAAAAfoo/v426jAjQQD4/s640/photoshoot25.jpg" width="388" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
They got the pendants from West Elm.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sWHULsf2ucU/UiuokvU9PqI/AAAAAAAAfow/YtqvLPlEU5Y/s1600/photoshoot21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sWHULsf2ucU/UiuokvU9PqI/AAAAAAAAfow/YtqvLPlEU5Y/s640/photoshoot21.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The artwork is Andrea's own, and I was so happy they wanted to use it for the shoot!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7maoK0AU0Bs/UiuombtRDVI/AAAAAAAAfo4/cbT3RjiEVO0/s1600/photoshoot7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7maoK0AU0Bs/UiuombtRDVI/AAAAAAAAfo4/cbT3RjiEVO0/s640/photoshoot7.jpg" width="346" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We had a ball, learned a lot, laughed a lot, and felt very thankful her kitchen was chosen for their magazine.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It will appear in their "Kitchen + Bath Makeovers" Special Interest edition which comes out 5-6 times a year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We have no idea when the piece will run, but I will let everyone know when it does!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LCcD1vXXtls/UiuowL1wKoI/AAAAAAAAfpA/eVMKGQrR5Xc/s1600/photoshoot24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LCcD1vXXtls/UiuowL1wKoI/AAAAAAAAfpA/eVMKGQrR5Xc/s640/photoshoot24.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know lots of bloggers get magazine features, but I'm so tickled that I got to participate in this one! My kids style is very different than mine, but I was honored to help with a bit of the design and work that went into this space....and was happy that sharing it on the blog brought us this opportunity!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now I shift gears again and start crafting for the wedding in November, painting up custom furniture orders, and picking out kitchen finishes for the new house :) Never a dull moment.....</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sxyhAL9FLHg/UiuxiLjKQvI/AAAAAAAAfpQ/mjQ06Ao62Qc/s1600/buttons+sign+offs+headers15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sxyhAL9FLHg/UiuxiLjKQvI/AAAAAAAAfpQ/mjQ06Ao62Qc/s320/buttons+sign+offs+headers15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-28258783721707781532013-09-06T22:31:00.000-04:002013-09-06T22:31:09.632-04:00::'Nother One and a Hint::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NU8lIB-1ihY/UiqMYeb8TCI/AAAAAAAAfl0/SUspte-8efU/s1600/septmarket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NU8lIB-1ihY/UiqMYeb8TCI/AAAAAAAAfl0/SUspte-8efU/s640/septmarket.jpg" width="490" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So my group of Paint Mavens (of Awesomeness) are doing another vintage market tomorrow, so if you're in the area (NE Indiana), stop by Emiley's Haute Cottage to check out our wares!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's a couple wee pieces I did to add to what's already on the floor at the shop:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Veronica the Mid-Century end table. Played up her legs and gave her some gold toes :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ij0JO0JNZU/UiqMb1OO_oI/AAAAAAAAfl8/lw_IiBCY62o/s1600/veronica.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ij0JO0JNZU/UiqMb1OO_oI/AAAAAAAAfl8/lw_IiBCY62o/s640/veronica.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This shabby pale pink chair matches Rita, a retro vanity I haven't shown you yet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ShQpbkuBvQU/UiqMhIBwF3I/AAAAAAAAfmI/R3cg3xcQQKo/s1600/chair.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ShQpbkuBvQU/UiqMhIBwF3I/AAAAAAAAfmI/R3cg3xcQQKo/s640/chair.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not going to market, but I wanted to show you the other mid-century piece I finished up.....my kids' bought this credenza to use as a bar, but it was in pretty bad shape. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hubs and I repaired it, then I painted the the outside bright white, used vinegar and oil to clean and shine the drawers/cabinet, and brasso to shine up the original hardware. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ETb0Z-tEVtQ/UiqMKfc5OcI/AAAAAAAAflo/EaWFgG5108o/s1600/IMG_6847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ETb0Z-tEVtQ/UiqMKfc5OcI/AAAAAAAAflo/EaWFgG5108o/s640/IMG_6847.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you look closely in these two pics of the crendenza in my kids' house, you'll see hints regarding</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
BIG NEWS #3....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(<a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2013/09/so-whats-my-big-news.html">BIG NEWS #1 & #2 are here</a>)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nd__1YkQhHA/UiqMNsK_zfI/AAAAAAAAflw/Nqm9q440uOA/s1600/IMG_6834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nd__1YkQhHA/UiqMNsK_zfI/AAAAAAAAflw/Nqm9q440uOA/s640/IMG_6834.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Any guesses? I'll spill the beans Sunday night!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Until then, wish me lots of pixie dust for good sales this weekend....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1LPnUTxvlHM/UiqPOxmILxI/AAAAAAAAfmQ/mSM-DpD9FcE/s1600/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1LPnUTxvlHM/UiqPOxmILxI/AAAAAAAAfmQ/mSM-DpD9FcE/s320/birdvireogfairy004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-54760467432782758022013-09-04T21:15:00.001-04:002013-09-04T21:15:32.282-04:00::So, What's My BIG News?::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
BIG NEWS #1:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--cOxzi5hjBo/UifXaXx93zI/AAAAAAAAfj0/ikerWtR6x_s/s1600/newbaby1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--cOxzi5hjBo/UifXaXx93zI/AAAAAAAAfj0/ikerWtR6x_s/s640/newbaby1.JPG" width="436" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sEfG4q5kMJo/UifXcz_dbyI/AAAAAAAAfj8/pDHFHN1BiB4/s1600/newbaby2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sEfG4q5kMJo/UifXcz_dbyI/AAAAAAAAfj8/pDHFHN1BiB4/s640/newbaby2.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-POLV50aEaEU/UifXfOmk_HI/AAAAAAAAfkE/VdU1T_70tRI/s1600/newbaby3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-POLV50aEaEU/UifXfOmk_HI/AAAAAAAAfkE/VdU1T_70tRI/s640/newbaby3.JPG" width="440" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
These three pics were in my hubby's birthday card :) Robyn Rose is 16 months old now, but will be 23 months when when her new baby sibling arrives. Whoop whoop!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(And they'll all be our next door neighbors when the house is done)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
BIG NEWS #2:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mnz_jKngXpg/UifYGlC8CSI/AAAAAAAAfkM/Q8aAPTngyf8/s1600/Graciering.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mnz_jKngXpg/UifYGlC8CSI/AAAAAAAAfkM/Q8aAPTngyf8/s640/Graciering.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
#3 daughter got herself engaged! Here she is with my son-in-law-to-be at the Mumford concert Monday:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Fdn8fv_jCo/UifYfIDaqPI/AAAAAAAAfkU/e2gtS7I5BZk/s1600/1184806_10151659862894514_563466161_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Fdn8fv_jCo/UifYfIDaqPI/AAAAAAAAfkU/e2gtS7I5BZk/s640/1184806_10151659862894514_563466161_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
They are getting hitched November 3rd.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Why yes, that *is* just 7-ish weeks away.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's just how we roll around here. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(psssst....wanna see <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2009/08/my-biggest-creative-endeavor-yet.html">Daughter #1's wedding</a>? or <a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2012/01/crafting-diy-rustic-chic-wedding.html">Daughter #2's wedding</a>?)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm armpit high in wedding planning, picking colors for the house, and helping with Robyn Rose as her momma struggles thru morning sickness.....ANNNNND I have 3 custom orders waiting in the garage and another vintage market this weekend.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Send chocolate.</div>
<br />
BIG NEWS #3 will have to wait a couple days, but I promise not to keep you hanging too long.....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mNtmK09ZZo/UifbDrtqpiI/AAAAAAAAfkg/qGCLg_CCZf8/s1600/buttons+sign+offs+headers15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mNtmK09ZZo/UifbDrtqpiI/AAAAAAAAfkg/qGCLg_CCZf8/s320/buttons+sign+offs+headers15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492363525800683157.post-58389798122185508492013-09-03T20:08:00.000-04:002016-09-12T19:24:02.398-04:00::Desks::<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
PSSSST...I'm no longer blogging here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
You can now find me at</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.acottagegirl.com/">www.acottagegirl.com</a></span></div>
<div>
----------------------------</div>
<br />
<br />
I'm trying to catch you up on recent do-overs, so today will also be a two-fer. Ain't cha lucky?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Meet Penelope. She went home with a customer from last month's Vintage Market.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yAQXT8CA9HM/UiZ1FLLyz6I/AAAAAAAAfhw/4SyDa5w7qo4/s1600/Penelope1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yAQXT8CA9HM/UiZ1FLLyz6I/AAAAAAAAfhw/4SyDa5w7qo4/s640/Penelope1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Before....That mirror piece is detatchable.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0sQW49t9fDg/UiZ1IDV7E8I/AAAAAAAAfh4/iVLtcOoNWmc/s1600/dresserdesk1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0sQW49t9fDg/UiZ1IDV7E8I/AAAAAAAAfh4/iVLtcOoNWmc/s640/dresserdesk1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Penelope also hides another secret...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RIB2VpuzYHs/UiZ1hpbU_BI/AAAAAAAAfik/73YLZ-MkT4k/s1600/Penelope2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RIB2VpuzYHs/UiZ1hpbU_BI/AAAAAAAAfik/73YLZ-MkT4k/s640/Penelope2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pull out her top drawer....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jb9bNxak_mc/UiZ1Wf_YgWI/AAAAAAAAfiQ/jsdkTy72sqc/s1600/Penelope6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jb9bNxak_mc/UiZ1Wf_YgWI/AAAAAAAAfiQ/jsdkTy72sqc/s640/Penelope6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Drop the drawer front down...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tE2Lyfcui4c/UiZ1STem-mI/AAAAAAAAfiI/iq4RVbUzo8A/s1600/Penelope5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tE2Lyfcui4c/UiZ1STem-mI/AAAAAAAAfiI/iq4RVbUzo8A/s640/Penelope5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And she becomes a desk!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0SgilZl_oXU/UiZ1PMywdKI/AAAAAAAAfiA/I24gYpbsVPs/s1600/Penelope4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0SgilZl_oXU/UiZ1PMywdKI/AAAAAAAAfiA/I24gYpbsVPs/s640/Penelope4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I did Penelope's makeover using MMS milk paint in Kitchen Scale mixed 1:1 with Homestead Milk Paint "Combed Wool" (a warm white) to get this soft color. I also used the bonding agent.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBhhvTV3ptg/UiZ2rv1viHI/AAAAAAAAfiw/XUkz6NjSC0Y/s1600/Penelope3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBhhvTV3ptg/UiZ2rv1viHI/AAAAAAAAfiw/XUkz6NjSC0Y/s640/Penelope3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some distressing of course, and wax finished her off.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Can't wait to use this color again!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CisE7ucD5Fs/UiZ1dBTqtjI/AAAAAAAAfiY/uhKZGaadzeI/s1600/Penelope7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CisE7ucD5Fs/UiZ1dBTqtjI/AAAAAAAAfiY/uhKZGaadzeI/s640/Penelope7.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Next up is Brittany....with no before :( Imagine just plain 70's wood.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hpmEC4zQww/UiZ3g86kYVI/AAAAAAAAfi0/_JiXqyFICas/s1600/brittany2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hpmEC4zQww/UiZ3g86kYVI/AAAAAAAAfi0/_JiXqyFICas/s640/brittany2.jpg" width="470" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I did a two-tone treatment using a DIY chalky paint color match for AS cream for the lighter color.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VcaioJWHcV8/UiZ3lbqugmI/AAAAAAAAfi8/DvRJeEFbfSc/s1600/brittany8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VcaioJWHcV8/UiZ3lbqugmI/AAAAAAAAfi8/DvRJeEFbfSc/s640/brittany8.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brittany is so unique because her drawers can be viewed from all sides.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rhhkN_AcIeU/UiZ3ocryS0I/AAAAAAAAfjE/BdW0SSwCaVg/s1600/brittany3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rhhkN_AcIeU/UiZ3ocryS0I/AAAAAAAAfjE/BdW0SSwCaVg/s640/brittany3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: center;">I did those in actual Annie Sloan Provence, dry brushed actual Annie Sloan Cream over that, and used a baby wipe to smear the two colors together....after they were dry.</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RBrXJ-YJ6I/UiZ3pkfekcI/AAAAAAAAfjM/vTrc9qCdYjs/s1600/brittany6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RBrXJ-YJ6I/UiZ3pkfekcI/AAAAAAAAfjM/vTrc9qCdYjs/s640/brittany6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Used the original hardware, which also got a coat of AS Cream with some light distressing.</div>
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mjRboC9TOzc/UiZ3rCInbYI/AAAAAAAAfjU/64Tn1JqBgfE/s1600/brittany4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mjRboC9TOzc/UiZ3rCInbYI/AAAAAAAAfjU/64Tn1JqBgfE/s640/brittany4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brittany is residing in her new home, and this week I'm painting up an antique caned chair in cream to match.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2qygU3Mc-A/UiZ3u792O5I/AAAAAAAAfjc/dCpf9L88_i0/s1600/brittany7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2qygU3Mc-A/UiZ3u792O5I/AAAAAAAAfjc/dCpf9L88_i0/s640/brittany7.jpg" width="474" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's today's show off! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3VKYYcNJ-LU/UiZ5PcFeHcI/AAAAAAAAfjo/FIeiINmJACU/s1600/eggsgfairy004-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3VKYYcNJ-LU/UiZ5PcFeHcI/AAAAAAAAfjo/FIeiINmJACU/s320/eggsgfairy004-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231641398378820087noreply@blogger.com6