tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44722691652735262012024-02-07T04:52:28.262-06:00And then She said...Blog, Blog, BlogShe said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.comBlogger156125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-73876302420778527382014-04-06T10:33:00.000-05:002014-04-06T10:33:04.699-05:00Barefoot in the kitchen...Well, I'm back in the kitchen. Barefoot.<br />
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'Mmmkay, yeah...no. I'm <em><strong>not</strong></em> barefoot in the kitchen (Luhvah wishes!). But I am working on getting the kitchen where I want it (i.e. not looking like a cave). I<strike> could</strike> should have started with the cabinets but I'm still burned out on painting cabinets from before at the Kingdom (and continued painting in general here at the Miracle). So, instead, I decided to start with the countertops because it was something new and different. <br />
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I hated the way the counters looked in the Miracle from the second I saw them. <br />
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Never mind that they are laminate. I could handle that. But the faux granite look was so messy. I've always hated it- I mean, even if it were <em>real</em> granite I still wouldn't like the look. I can't stand how splotchy it is, messy-like. It's very popular but I prefer a more subtle look. <br />
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After living with the counters I hated them even more. The uneven splotches made it very difficult to tell if the counters were clean. Are there any bread crumbs? Did you spill any sauce? I mean, <em>everything</em> blended into the counters. They may as well have been <em>camo counters </em>(Kindred, can you imagine?)! In fact, I ran across <a href="http://thisweekfordinner.com/2013/07/12/house-stuff-meet-my-camo-counters-and-my-non-camo-carpets/" target="_blank">this blog post</a> complaining about that very thing- and her <em>real</em> granite counters look very similar to mine. I even found a pic of counter tops in <em>camouflage</em> (ick): <br />
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Anyhow, I was continually running my hand over them to make sure that they were smooth and no jelly was left from the Monkey's afternoon snack. It was rather annoying. <br />
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I want white kitchen cabinets so I decided black countertops would be preferable. My first stop was Pinterest (of course) to get ideas. <br />
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Then, I hit up Home Depot to check out countertop options to see what I might like. I planned all along to paint them when I saw multiple tutorials for painting laminate counters. I think <a href="http://prettylilposies.blogspot.com/2010/11/250-kitchen-makeover-with-20-granite.html" target="_blank">this is the one</a> that first got me thinking about it though. Still, I needed an up close inspiration piece to use for reference. <br />
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At HD, I found this:<br />
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I liked how it was subtle but still had some variety in it. Up close you would see texture, but from far away it would still look like a black counter top. My counters didn't end up exactly like that but it was more of an inspiration piece to guide me. <br />
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I started by taping everything off and priming the countertops. I used 2 coats of this primer:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50wNBVclcTwCrgMq1bixxDQHZBwMsvbsbvuvCqr1qm2YjoESsGIwbHTmUrS2t8jGJU65DRdEPwG6KJKsgjGgFrlGkAx7E7bsVFQCXRCYCEAy6zfbogHNWBMwNB-jHhqg3sYLL4E9pfDc/s1600/IMG_2187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50wNBVclcTwCrgMq1bixxDQHZBwMsvbsbvuvCqr1qm2YjoESsGIwbHTmUrS2t8jGJU65DRdEPwG6KJKsgjGgFrlGkAx7E7bsVFQCXRCYCEAy6zfbogHNWBMwNB-jHhqg3sYLL4E9pfDc/s1600/IMG_2187.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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I already liked it better with the primer. More calming than that busy pattern.<br />
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After the 2 coats I started with basic black. I got lucky one day a few months back at HD and found this on sale:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjtHQMM6E2gj1mS3670hyphenhyphenpTCidvJx_faPK8vWFwsEZSWWaoOTacfPX0UNnriJE916yjguiV8LhRjHyxDQwsi_rgAfP8HppuievPR9eQEayvg0rSvhxYJRcO01mnbMtB66PD2hAN3W5Xqg/s1600/IMG_2190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjtHQMM6E2gj1mS3670hyphenhyphenpTCidvJx_faPK8vWFwsEZSWWaoOTacfPX0UNnriJE916yjguiV8LhRjHyxDQwsi_rgAfP8HppuievPR9eQEayvg0rSvhxYJRcO01mnbMtB66PD2hAN3W5Xqg/s1600/IMG_2190.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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I knew it would be perfect for the countertops (even helps that it's an exterior paint so it's more durable). So I snagged it right up.<br />
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3 coats of it gave me a great base. Here it is after 1 coat:<br />
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Each of the base coats of black, and the primer, I let dry almost 24 hours between to make sure the paint set well. Here's the 3 coats of black: <br />
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After that, I used 2 different colors of acrylic paint (a dark gray and a light gray) and a toothbrush. I experimented a little until I got the look I wanted. Luckily this was very easy. If I didn't like how it looked all I had to do was paint back over it again and start over. Easy peasy. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWjszgemMN8N_5xNS_QbMznhUey_tAX2j5qBKo0BtACwgrqUKM94JI6j-tXeD3MmLcGVZQTCWl7HjZs0cSFZjlR6ZAoMlwIlfecvk3k3tC7KhqtjSQYAEIfgu6R_61-tOGeacphTQATus/s1600/IMG_2209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWjszgemMN8N_5xNS_QbMznhUey_tAX2j5qBKo0BtACwgrqUKM94JI6j-tXeD3MmLcGVZQTCWl7HjZs0cSFZjlR6ZAoMlwIlfecvk3k3tC7KhqtjSQYAEIfgu6R_61-tOGeacphTQATus/s1600/IMG_2209.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
(Tip: if you want to replicate this the key is a <em><strong>dry</strong></em> toothbrush. I kept an old towel handy and a bowl of water, every 2-3 sweeps of the brush and I'd swish it out and dry it. If the brush gets too wet it doesn't splatter as evenly and you'll get a blotchy mess).<br />
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To give it a little more interest and movement, I also added glitter. Not obscene amounts mind you, just sprinkled across after I'd already gotten the look I wanted with the acrylic paints (the very fine glitter too). That way, when you looked at it from certain angles the glitter did its thang. It looked good. Made it look less flat (the inspiration piece above had a glitter surface too). I tried to get a good pic of the glint of a piece of glitter but it didn't come off well in camera- in person it looks amazing-makes it look more like granite or quartz or whatever:<br />
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Here's the finished look:<br />
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As you can see, from far away, it just looks like black countertops. <br />
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But an up close look:<br />
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I love, love, love it.<br />
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To seal it all I used a polycrilic in semi-gloss (multiple coats). The polycrilic said it's good withstanding water which was my big concern. All in all, this cost me 20.00 to do (and 16.00 of that was the sealant). It would run you more based on how large your counters are (I already had the primer and I got the base paint on clearance-2.00). I think it turned out great. I can't wait until I can paint the cabinets to see how much better it looks in here. I'm already thinking it looks amazing just having those busy looking counters gone!She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-46127808442660893102014-04-03T14:24:00.002-05:002014-04-03T14:24:44.687-05:00It's The Doctor...not Dr. Who?Hello y'all! I'm working on something big so I'll be back later hopefully to share that. For now, I wanted to share with you the crafts that I did for the Monkey. <br />
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Lately, she's into everything British (it's sweeping the nation I suppose). So, she loves BBC something fierce. Her big thing is Sherlock and Doctor Who. Doctor Who is very big for her since there are sooo many episodes to watch (as opposed to Sherlock with only 9 episodes). <br />
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Anyhow. For Christmas, (yes, I know this is rather late coming) I decided to make her a Doctor Who inspired nightstand since she was needing one for her room. I'm always rearranging furniture and I happened to have an available nightstand that would fit this makeover perfectly. I found this on Pinterest which helped spur me on:<br />
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I decided I would do something similar with her nightstand. A Tardis nightstand. (If you don't know what the Tardis is, basically, Tardis in Doctor Who = Delorian from Back to the Future). The Tardis looks like this:<br />
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The nightstand started out like this:<br />
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I had already taken off the hardware. Next, I covered the grating so it wouldn't get painted since I was spraypainting this. </div>
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All I did for this was buy 1 can of spray paint from Walmart in what I approximated as a close color to "Tardis Blue". The can cost me only 2.00. After spray painting, I painted the inside of the top drawer black and stenciled the words on in the same way that I stenciled on our <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/before-after-front-door-makeover.html">front door</a> at the Kingdom. <br />
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I haven't yet gotten hardware for the thing (I know, 3 months later...). But she loved it. So, now she has her own Tardis nightstand. What I loved about this Christmas present was it was practical (she needed a nightstand) but whimsical and it caters to her teen obsessions. Plus, it was absolutely cheap, cheap, cheap= 2.00 (and however much hardware may be). It was just a can of spray paint. Everything else I already had on hand. <br />
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The next craft was similar in nature. Again, found this on Pinterest:<br />
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Bleach, easy. I just needed a shirt. I finally pulled the plug when I ran across a rack of $1.00 shirts (No lie, one friggin' BUCK!) on clearance at Walmart. Just basic long sleeve tees. </div>
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If you're trying this I recommend putting something in between the front and back side of the shirt to make sure the bleach doesn't bleed through (I just wanted the front bleached). I used a plastic bag (you can see it sticking out in the pic above). </div>
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I free handed a rough estimation of the Tardis on cardboard and cut it out to lay on the shirt when I bleached around it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSAWBxd45IZKzONMR5Kkw1DiQz9hK5ZNQ_PTRk7QnsDcHpKJMtVbrN_9nIFtYMLwjtAFWramhbeIC3HeJuevcJVe21RRO41w1IsBMu_0rlIGBhGaCShyphenhyphenPLSQb8DfwR4e64IXjqoj3jtg/s1600/IMG_2165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSAWBxd45IZKzONMR5Kkw1DiQz9hK5ZNQ_PTRk7QnsDcHpKJMtVbrN_9nIFtYMLwjtAFWramhbeIC3HeJuevcJVe21RRO41w1IsBMu_0rlIGBhGaCShyphenhyphenPLSQb8DfwR4e64IXjqoj3jtg/s1600/IMG_2165.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I also tucked the sleeves in the side. I was using that orange electrical piece to hold down the paper since it started curling up when it got wet. I simply sprayed straight bleach on the shirt in a galaxy type way. <br />
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Here's the finished product:<br />
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I also showed you the back side of the neck. I forgot to cover the hole up in the front and it bled through. Not a big deal but may want to cover if you don't want to have it on the back. <br />
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Again, this was a cheap craft- only 1.00 for the shirt. And I really love it. So cute. <br />
The Monkey is certainly covered in Doctor Who gear. These were quick and easy crafts. <br />
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I'll try and be back next week to show you the project I'm working on right now. <br />
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-63625271677629618382014-03-15T17:04:00.000-05:002014-03-15T17:04:10.394-05:00Make a good Entrance...Today I wanted to show you my entry or foyer or for<em>-yay</em> if you're fancy. I always believed you only had a for<em>-yay (</em>foyer speak for fancy people) if you were really, really wealthy. Well we're not so I guess I just have an entry to show you. <br />
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I was really excited to decorate this area because we only had a walk in area at the Kingdom, not a really truly true entry. See here:<br />
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One of the things I loved about the Kingdom was how open it was but that meant there wasn't really an entry way specifically. <br />
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Not the case at the Miracle. Here it is on inspection day:<br />
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Really bad picture and it's from the living room looking into it rather than the actual front door but you get the idea. <br />
It was a pretty big area to decorate. I waited to do anything with it until I painted everything (ugh). But thankfully, since this was the main part of the house, I stuck with Revere Pewter by BM and flat white ceilings. <br />
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After painting I hung curtains. I just put up something I already had which I'd used in the master bedroom at the kingdom. But I liked them in the foyer so they stayed. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgSq9kl4vqRU0KY-tRCVAtKHWkwEkgJTNVYPWBV35sNcOckiXFe-DbTENTGjkLanNHgwK5rvRVlnbcO2-Ie8ZkLu_aJLe3UuJOhRcdQkOger_StiXKOOhzkMpyA06NciM4iUx0Yv5AXI/s1600/curtains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgSq9kl4vqRU0KY-tRCVAtKHWkwEkgJTNVYPWBV35sNcOckiXFe-DbTENTGjkLanNHgwK5rvRVlnbcO2-Ie8ZkLu_aJLe3UuJOhRcdQkOger_StiXKOOhzkMpyA06NciM4iUx0Yv5AXI/s1600/curtains.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Next, I had the difficulty of finding a rug. I went to Target and brought home multiple choices to contend with:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-lPgqlPV1WGUoc6LPJB8yfZIZVOw9DphHqabi6ubtv3JZL0YXIdmdfoEEU5YDHIAeyhzD88OownmPgqfuCoMEMW-rRRFdzxmhJrk40xhhYD5WGdboR05EyBDHRKTaIpnY6IQApMlFts/s1600/IMG_2087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-lPgqlPV1WGUoc6LPJB8yfZIZVOw9DphHqabi6ubtv3JZL0YXIdmdfoEEU5YDHIAeyhzD88OownmPgqfuCoMEMW-rRRFdzxmhJrk40xhhYD5WGdboR05EyBDHRKTaIpnY6IQApMlFts/s1600/IMG_2087.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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After looking at them all I figured I could return what didn't work. Oh, and if you'll notice- the door is still smoker's yellow (or cream if you're nice). I plan to change that but I'm trying to decide if I want white, black, or maybe again- a pop of color. IDK. Still deciding. <br />
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Anyhow, on to the rugs. <br />
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I kept this small rug for the walk way between the entry and the living room (to hide a cord and the scuffed up tread):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QYdVqIMpK38uzSxHgLDNxejPCl2nTMixds0vOxHhEBTRT0YcfL82NE-H5bz343Sz0HgxGJJjP8Y7aCgt9bTSL3oqUmvbD8FGPMek-27ql6r_CcZAchHouAk_F3XVCbPRnbAxmUx2elw/s1600/rug+living.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QYdVqIMpK38uzSxHgLDNxejPCl2nTMixds0vOxHhEBTRT0YcfL82NE-H5bz343Sz0HgxGJJjP8Y7aCgt9bTSL3oqUmvbD8FGPMek-27ql6r_CcZAchHouAk_F3XVCbPRnbAxmUx2elw/s1600/rug+living.jpg" height="231" width="320" /></a></div>
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I really wish they would've had a larger version of this rug (it was a small mat if you can't tell). It was exactly what I was looking for in an entry rug. Neutral but still some color and pattern. It was gray, cream, and mustard yellow (if you can't see from the pic). But alas, they didn't have a larger size or my search would've been over.<br />
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So, I tried out the variety of other options. <br />
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1) I picked out this mustard yellow because I thought it was beautiful and different. Giving some color. But when I got it in the entry it clashed with the curtains too much. So, nope.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyu0rB12XLrVAzh3CeUEIkZLc-XlKs0L0KQNE7OXbSYcqOb1hUtvM33wZB1Z0U2nunFZ9q3q-8nCrZUw6KYRbvr_xAo_VQZNoKx4KkWwCMp_PMguKZMKURnikMMwcs9c27z0CnicN_6nI/s1600/IMG_2094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyu0rB12XLrVAzh3CeUEIkZLc-XlKs0L0KQNE7OXbSYcqOb1hUtvM33wZB1Z0U2nunFZ9q3q-8nCrZUw6KYRbvr_xAo_VQZNoKx4KkWwCMp_PMguKZMKURnikMMwcs9c27z0CnicN_6nI/s1600/IMG_2094.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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2) Then I went with this gray greek key pattern (I don't know exactly what this pattern is called). I liked it but it seems too light to hold down the floor, if that makes sense. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeVLYAcbM0Katy_sH-SuzeoHvYnPJdfAawiKqXysYN-i1cng1mQ_ovk0TuTnMRJKUu9Z6etoGX-SIty-B2_bL0htF9Jf07Rr2lzn9J__0wyt7UjFy_ipLq1CD7V2uCZl3IcPrfaS6t0-4/s1600/IMG_2097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeVLYAcbM0Katy_sH-SuzeoHvYnPJdfAawiKqXysYN-i1cng1mQ_ovk0TuTnMRJKUu9Z6etoGX-SIty-B2_bL0htF9Jf07Rr2lzn9J__0wyt7UjFy_ipLq1CD7V2uCZl3IcPrfaS6t0-4/s1600/IMG_2097.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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3) Next was this floral number. It had color, but still seemed neutral. But idk, it was still too busy looking for the curtains and entry in general.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAOTrRbpQu9WNtwzQYUh5MSk89MqDbtVn_HWg0j4V6Mdx09SiGcIf_ofuAlrKKrzqbl_wjOzhbss3kiezdgwU375YZmYgmLzZffSRKmnMlFzeo98i3e5A1KhGMQFO6e0k8oXQlpzzqbg/s1600/IMG_2090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAOTrRbpQu9WNtwzQYUh5MSk89MqDbtVn_HWg0j4V6Mdx09SiGcIf_ofuAlrKKrzqbl_wjOzhbss3kiezdgwU375YZmYgmLzZffSRKmnMlFzeo98i3e5A1KhGMQFO6e0k8oXQlpzzqbg/s1600/IMG_2090.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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4) Then, I tried this green striped number. Which I really liked. It had color and yet was subtle enough not to clash too much with the floral curtains. But still, though you can't tell in this pic, the green was too vivid. Not as muted as I'd prefer. Plus, it screamed SPRING! which was great for the upcoming months but then I'd have to buy another rug for fall/winter. Most people might just buy an additional rug. But if you know me, I'm el-cheapo. So, I needed my rug to do double duty. All year round, baby.</div>
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5) Finally, I tried this trellis patterned gray rug. Ahhhhh....Goldilocks. I liked how this was a darker gray so it felt more weighted. It had a tinge of blue in the gray (whereas the other gray rug was a full gray-gray). So, this one looked like it fit better and didn't clash with my curtains. Yet it certainly stood out more on the floor. This was it. <em>The One</em>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL1CzXiyXKAJMXBtqb0ARepMzPVm7VQxuaS6I6DLHHxQ7c_VxpasKt2NLT7R3uHSEBZA5MEytlpKp5-9eCGNY7sCW7DKQDeZwruaCkRoaZm423QXb8iwfveNsOZ-4A61jy7Lg9-0O1ow/s1600/IMG_2096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL1CzXiyXKAJMXBtqb0ARepMzPVm7VQxuaS6I6DLHHxQ7c_VxpasKt2NLT7R3uHSEBZA5MEytlpKp5-9eCGNY7sCW7DKQDeZwruaCkRoaZm423QXb8iwfveNsOZ-4A61jy7Lg9-0O1ow/s1600/IMG_2096.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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And it looked very good with the other (my favorite) rug:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkt9f8UtqPHpwTdHEhnFSpoqPARBIZyiAuIFm_t9b71lvdIfupKHNm96jblxhHxiyhfxhu8bkpAhspb18cJGknbTOJRa3xyVVLAjoJSaNE7nQ8kEzdRZ0_Zzr2l2Coy5zZkG6J2nB2fnU/s1600/entry+from+living+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkt9f8UtqPHpwTdHEhnFSpoqPARBIZyiAuIFm_t9b71lvdIfupKHNm96jblxhHxiyhfxhu8bkpAhspb18cJGknbTOJRa3xyVVLAjoJSaNE7nQ8kEzdRZ0_Zzr2l2Coy5zZkG6J2nB2fnU/s1600/entry+from+living+3.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMngBnHTYICGrvk1Yos2ELZ1qhf7af_3rqz4dF7N-QK9Zqc5KR10u6bAyqkbnQzYQhxdCmQstkNgM8U5n7VeoN7M7z7kPvsxkjVYUYdX_oekA_xWd4GYlsFdCLLjiGix-0XlVNwtBeXMw/s1600/entry+from+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMngBnHTYICGrvk1Yos2ELZ1qhf7af_3rqz4dF7N-QK9Zqc5KR10u6bAyqkbnQzYQhxdCmQstkNgM8U5n7VeoN7M7z7kPvsxkjVYUYdX_oekA_xWd4GYlsFdCLLjiGix-0XlVNwtBeXMw/s1600/entry+from+door.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Here's the inside corner of the entry too:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJsc-Lfqz2-swPd-jXiLEBmNW9Knk9-KQuX4a2BLtDAGimBtaOJ0D0Nwx76q511FKLfZ2uE_9FEgOssi9i2_worFNmjB9hL5OFn6Zd8eXJe3tDIO3Nyh2-KCRK6DatYR1Wm-UsG7wQNs/s1600/jeeves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJsc-Lfqz2-swPd-jXiLEBmNW9Knk9-KQuX4a2BLtDAGimBtaOJ0D0Nwx76q511FKLfZ2uE_9FEgOssi9i2_worFNmjB9hL5OFn6Zd8eXJe3tDIO3Nyh2-KCRK6DatYR1Wm-UsG7wQNs/s1600/jeeves.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
That lil statue guy there is an ashtray. It was my grandmother's so it has sentimental value. He's been around for as long as I can remember at my grandma's and we named him Jeeves when we were younger cuz he looked like a fancy butler. Luhvah thinks he's hideous but I love him so he stays. <br />
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And I'd be remiss if I didn't show the leash hanger for the dog leash-<br />
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I made this awhile back. 3.00 Ikea dog butt hook and 2.00 wood plaque from Hobby Lobby. Plus scrapbook materials. It was an easy make and looks so adorable hanging in the entry. </div>
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Besides the entry rug (30.00 for the gray and 20.00 for the small yellow) I shopped entirely from the guest bedroom for any décor items. So, other than paint- which was overall for the house, the total renovation for this entry was 50.00. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuQ2Sn2ewQ8qTsUIuNOUFoAaQwCvtRxgSPQb0cpOpFQMBLIafum1MHIhJTyYdM46fj3xzsc18PXVcP2il5drk7iCqrgYfqacmn6CFmJAGWHFaeoufbaG3nm7-xLywV4LVNbO-EerwtQY/s1600/entry+from+door+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuQ2Sn2ewQ8qTsUIuNOUFoAaQwCvtRxgSPQb0cpOpFQMBLIafum1MHIhJTyYdM46fj3xzsc18PXVcP2il5drk7iCqrgYfqacmn6CFmJAGWHFaeoufbaG3nm7-xLywV4LVNbO-EerwtQY/s1600/entry+from+door+2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Oh, and the cat was free too. :)She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-16871585709472905232014-03-05T13:56:00.001-06:002014-03-05T13:56:07.887-06:00Finished product...and a living room tourWell, I'm back to show you the finished product on the fireplace wall. I finally primed and painted as well as decorated it. And I love it! It makes the room feel lighter without that big ol' hole there. <br />
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Here's a before pic:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIoMV5VPjTbfA5d78IvZY1GH48RGc6OUpKE3rNhyphenhyphenSg34XH2oLiy9BJ61FE0XeuP5tOwPb3NrXJK4prxvc8rDL4Ja3MN2H66eY1kKT-HV-MkBNYCokEyl0O1T2KWK74ipIqX3E8ceNhsS4/s1600/IMG_3864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIoMV5VPjTbfA5d78IvZY1GH48RGc6OUpKE3rNhyphenhyphenSg34XH2oLiy9BJ61FE0XeuP5tOwPb3NrXJK4prxvc8rDL4Ja3MN2H66eY1kKT-HV-MkBNYCokEyl0O1T2KWK74ipIqX3E8ceNhsS4/s1600/IMG_3864.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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And now here's the after:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-PLy2WHNSgaTrZvEtCx2Pm0gPoziqpLAbIh0OFYYquDiVhZSE4mT-NqWnjRoBAcCq2UhGjcfc2s6jJeOIXnmLHA8RFyg0MBWcwBSYZisGt4myqDPZ5eitICUD60DrwkU_4bmA1pvSU0/s1600/after+mantle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-PLy2WHNSgaTrZvEtCx2Pm0gPoziqpLAbIh0OFYYquDiVhZSE4mT-NqWnjRoBAcCq2UhGjcfc2s6jJeOIXnmLHA8RFyg0MBWcwBSYZisGt4myqDPZ5eitICUD60DrwkU_4bmA1pvSU0/s1600/after+mantle.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I kept everything as easy as possible and even if it's imperfect I think it looks great. I finally feel like my living room is coming together. I even busted out all the décor items from the middle bedroom:<br />
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Slowly as I decorate my house that pile and disorganized mess looks cleaner. <br />
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Anyhow, back to the living room. It's come a long way from here, approx. 6 months ago:<br />
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I'm so glad the walls are painted, as well as the ceiling. The ceiling is a flat white Behr paint and primer. The walls are Revere Pewter by Ben Moore but color matched in Behr paint and primer eggshell.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-PLy2WHNSgaTrZvEtCx2Pm0gPoziqpLAbIh0OFYYquDiVhZSE4mT-NqWnjRoBAcCq2UhGjcfc2s6jJeOIXnmLHA8RFyg0MBWcwBSYZisGt4myqDPZ5eitICUD60DrwkU_4bmA1pvSU0/s1600/after+mantle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-PLy2WHNSgaTrZvEtCx2Pm0gPoziqpLAbIh0OFYYquDiVhZSE4mT-NqWnjRoBAcCq2UhGjcfc2s6jJeOIXnmLHA8RFyg0MBWcwBSYZisGt4myqDPZ5eitICUD60DrwkU_4bmA1pvSU0/s1600/after+mantle.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I like how the white of the panels plays off the white of the curtains on either side. I still need to paint the backdoor if you can see. Haven't decided if I'm doing white or a color to give it a nice pop. </div>
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Here's a closer look of the actual mantle:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQYN8JRI1-ps9ftKJZFonPmQUXSe8yeevFU-gHnldxQ7p4FwSVk0so2iinmxjPnlmLAIt4rDIDiALjJSefHT76t8gN94VCRflBv6YV2OxqUjLDE17WWGktD1uuHY75BSocG4MShKgfxs/s1600/AFTER+MANTLE+CLOSE+WHOLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQYN8JRI1-ps9ftKJZFonPmQUXSe8yeevFU-gHnldxQ7p4FwSVk0so2iinmxjPnlmLAIt4rDIDiALjJSefHT76t8gN94VCRflBv6YV2OxqUjLDE17WWGktD1uuHY75BSocG4MShKgfxs/s1600/AFTER+MANTLE+CLOSE+WHOLE.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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The lanterns used to look like this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUC71sEEn1_-j7lplbyBSZvHjRNxLbIaO7-x92F-T-_QZEttG9J1rnvOQD_vONnDZ19s2Rm9CSN0_KOkvHB9AyQTOEz5AUmgJUbIHx-bOG93-YMTN-XBvJLa4lbnf02aqhTjZzYH8abME/s1600/IMG_2080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUC71sEEn1_-j7lplbyBSZvHjRNxLbIaO7-x92F-T-_QZEttG9J1rnvOQD_vONnDZ19s2Rm9CSN0_KOkvHB9AyQTOEz5AUmgJUbIHx-bOG93-YMTN-XBvJLa4lbnf02aqhTjZzYH8abME/s1600/IMG_2080.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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You can see I started to paint them a metallic gold. It was Rustoleum I believe and I think they turned out awesome. I draped a magnolia leaf swag across the mantle and added a couple of white candles in jars and it's done. Simple and elegant. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQYN8JRI1-ps9ftKJZFonPmQUXSe8yeevFU-gHnldxQ7p4FwSVk0so2iinmxjPnlmLAIt4rDIDiALjJSefHT76t8gN94VCRflBv6YV2OxqUjLDE17WWGktD1uuHY75BSocG4MShKgfxs/s1600/AFTER+MANTLE+CLOSE+WHOLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQYN8JRI1-ps9ftKJZFonPmQUXSe8yeevFU-gHnldxQ7p4FwSVk0so2iinmxjPnlmLAIt4rDIDiALjJSefHT76t8gN94VCRflBv6YV2OxqUjLDE17WWGktD1uuHY75BSocG4MShKgfxs/s1600/AFTER+MANTLE+CLOSE+WHOLE.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sorry about the weird coloring on the pictures. It was late in the day and the lighting is bad. Plus, I'm no camera expert. </div>
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Anyhow. Here's the other side of the room:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kmOpCv6Jbtsf-ZImxwc8RiHi4zONY9eyesejdKC6JbCmBoMlaaLdpJBC5DRm9a63X2agIfprCPSyXAUPZ_dzNhyphenhyphenPPlLcBOmMvtm5-A5kLjwXZ8HMw_udetVyWuPDHQT6SXhaCDLuwnI/s1600/after+couch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kmOpCv6Jbtsf-ZImxwc8RiHi4zONY9eyesejdKC6JbCmBoMlaaLdpJBC5DRm9a63X2agIfprCPSyXAUPZ_dzNhyphenhyphenPPlLcBOmMvtm5-A5kLjwXZ8HMw_udetVyWuPDHQT6SXhaCDLuwnI/s1600/after+couch.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I went for simple on this side. I got new pillow cases from Hobby Lobby (love HL!!!) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5hjTqoBFGPsJEtekN2D8N1S89G2-5Mde0cptoFyyWlpvjxjKqqAjkQA7NGtY7PX_sfu4xvvRt-xeD8ZRzZvvVtY19gq0vC35CxPB-iTf7dkspq0mxVAn045seZSFiCAMf7qKzbbinthI/s1600/couch+pillows+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5hjTqoBFGPsJEtekN2D8N1S89G2-5Mde0cptoFyyWlpvjxjKqqAjkQA7NGtY7PX_sfu4xvvRt-xeD8ZRzZvvVtY19gq0vC35CxPB-iTf7dkspq0mxVAn045seZSFiCAMf7qKzbbinthI/s1600/couch+pillows+2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
The butterfly one was 3.00 and the yellow chevron was 4.00. (half off when I got them!) the turquoise one I already had.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDydEhnfxHKXqPBw70DC7aXk6sn3hRjOgtfUfS2e78Q2dRju2cyTtaA0HEVa_nk9l503IpXNcIhKawQEzanotwzoO33t2PBpC1jW-Q_E0NgTsqrZ9KB2hfdrrbIPfM5h_a1YNvQWRrvRw/s1600/couch+candles+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDydEhnfxHKXqPBw70DC7aXk6sn3hRjOgtfUfS2e78Q2dRju2cyTtaA0HEVa_nk9l503IpXNcIhKawQEzanotwzoO33t2PBpC1jW-Q_E0NgTsqrZ9KB2hfdrrbIPfM5h_a1YNvQWRrvRw/s1600/couch+candles+.jpg" height="400" width="372" /></a></div>
I painted these lanterns gold as well (I think I'm just on this gold kick for some reason). They used to look like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxbPKClUoM1AaGnWG-0i3WTfrVR3JfV_wpSo4fz20XON_tvXyUvIlkr-iipqp1umyudK1mQShKvrjHYRmLzxZsM_GDyNHVyM-Ya6VhofE8FWbzinABux6hx9miyS7so5X518jx2-lmWoY/s1600/IMG_2110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxbPKClUoM1AaGnWG-0i3WTfrVR3JfV_wpSo4fz20XON_tvXyUvIlkr-iipqp1umyudK1mQShKvrjHYRmLzxZsM_GDyNHVyM-Ya6VhofE8FWbzinABux6hx9miyS7so5X518jx2-lmWoY/s1600/IMG_2110.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
I've had these since forever and I almost got rid of them. But then I decided to try and make them over. I took out the paper part of the lantern which, as you can see, is broken and bent. I spray painted them gold and I feel like they turned out pretty well. <br />
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The candelabra was also this heinous gold color (why did I take things that were gold and paint them other colors and take things that were other colors and paint them gold? IDK)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eN3PjDoSojeXqBeEOvclPsKxbcxms6CbSk-3CctJypBlTWK8kv7uU9Dhxgj5dYtH1okYoRAA3CYLhM7DjK-MlGjvZEWqXQpNVPpRYd7W9R-OxE_lU_TyzX-y31oaYx4Ze54ad3G-WiY/s1600/IMG_2112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eN3PjDoSojeXqBeEOvclPsKxbcxms6CbSk-3CctJypBlTWK8kv7uU9Dhxgj5dYtH1okYoRAA3CYLhM7DjK-MlGjvZEWqXQpNVPpRYd7W9R-OxE_lU_TyzX-y31oaYx4Ze54ad3G-WiY/s1600/IMG_2112.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN79TBDSGlSPjovKVp7sVad0Ss0jXTWMmHHtlnXIo44uyXqrKbkYWp_txr-zDJCzq0CivQdXf5-w51cC5tmSagWPd6t566DSIo9C7KW1wbzITsSX4oeaeJxOEj34zypfZdOTbFzl4GaVI/s1600/IMG_2116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN79TBDSGlSPjovKVp7sVad0Ss0jXTWMmHHtlnXIo44uyXqrKbkYWp_txr-zDJCzq0CivQdXf5-w51cC5tmSagWPd6t566DSIo9C7KW1wbzITsSX4oeaeJxOEj34zypfZdOTbFzl4GaVI/s1600/IMG_2116.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
So I painted it a basic white:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDydEhnfxHKXqPBw70DC7aXk6sn3hRjOgtfUfS2e78Q2dRju2cyTtaA0HEVa_nk9l503IpXNcIhKawQEzanotwzoO33t2PBpC1jW-Q_E0NgTsqrZ9KB2hfdrrbIPfM5h_a1YNvQWRrvRw/s1600/couch+candles+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDydEhnfxHKXqPBw70DC7aXk6sn3hRjOgtfUfS2e78Q2dRju2cyTtaA0HEVa_nk9l503IpXNcIhKawQEzanotwzoO33t2PBpC1jW-Q_E0NgTsqrZ9KB2hfdrrbIPfM5h_a1YNvQWRrvRw/s1600/couch+candles+.jpg" height="400" width="372" /></a></div>
So, that's it. I'm so happy with how my living room turned out. And that the stupid hole is gone:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-PLy2WHNSgaTrZvEtCx2Pm0gPoziqpLAbIh0OFYYquDiVhZSE4mT-NqWnjRoBAcCq2UhGjcfc2s6jJeOIXnmLHA8RFyg0MBWcwBSYZisGt4myqDPZ5eitICUD60DrwkU_4bmA1pvSU0/s1600/after+mantle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-PLy2WHNSgaTrZvEtCx2Pm0gPoziqpLAbIh0OFYYquDiVhZSE4mT-NqWnjRoBAcCq2UhGjcfc2s6jJeOIXnmLHA8RFyg0MBWcwBSYZisGt4myqDPZ5eitICUD60DrwkU_4bmA1pvSU0/s1600/after+mantle.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-55955820864995396222014-03-02T22:16:00.004-06:002014-03-02T22:16:45.570-06:00Happy Birthday Seester!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnCa0wkSDD37QhM2gn_Al5LJQIRK7iebaMz68MK7bk9es1-VC7AfJtdNyMFCeXeN40HOL4K8rOlsXO6woGEDrEaf-ac07pxwuov-iy6QRVzD04t_1HDhX5WxxDg2SKZmu0pn0sxRqkYc/s1600/ecard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnCa0wkSDD37QhM2gn_Al5LJQIRK7iebaMz68MK7bk9es1-VC7AfJtdNyMFCeXeN40HOL4K8rOlsXO6woGEDrEaf-ac07pxwuov-iy6QRVzD04t_1HDhX5WxxDg2SKZmu0pn0sxRqkYc/s1600/ecard.jpg" height="222" width="400" /></a></div>
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Well, well, well, the first year I finally get to spend a birthday with my sister (since we've moved within driving distance!) and what happens? This:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjg9gbUeTVtyAZG9ukGC76c-6wle24zO5brohRnwm2wBFl2LB-fTiS9KtnjxIkmtPDcH_AmywxRl0zGUr9_Ln0vFX63D4gozTVQb_z3fFYPFE9yGext441aLDqsaCOe65CUWPh78pEtOE/s1600/weather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjg9gbUeTVtyAZG9ukGC76c-6wle24zO5brohRnwm2wBFl2LB-fTiS9KtnjxIkmtPDcH_AmywxRl0zGUr9_Ln0vFX63D4gozTVQb_z3fFYPFE9yGext441aLDqsaCOe65CUWPh78pEtOE/s1600/weather.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
Snow Showers? In<em><strong> MARCH</strong></em>?!!! <br />
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<strike>OMGItotallymissFlorida----whatwasIthinking??</strike><br />
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So, this is no time to go out and paint the town red. Streets are crazy icy and therefore we were not inclined to be out in that.<br />
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Still, I wanted to wish her a <strike>Snowy</strike> - I mean Happy- Birthday!<br />
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Maybe we can celebrate in like, June, or something when it's more likely to be nice weather...then we can paint the town red? <strike>(and be back home by 930pm cuz that's how I roll</strike>)<br />
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Well, that's how <em>you</em> roll too-considering you're what, 85 now?<br />
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Anyhow. Happy Birthday You! So, glad I am near you now! <br />
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(Oh, and, despite the fact that I'm closer, it in no way makes me more responsible -aka no present or card. So...yeah, sorry 'bout that, sis.)<br />
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Love, <br />
The lil sis (see what I did thur?)<br />
<br />She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-27793675340974814942014-03-02T21:26:00.000-06:002014-03-02T21:26:00.933-06:00Hole-y Mole-y!So, do you remember the hole above the fireplace which was supposed to house those old tube TVs with the big ass back (baby got back!)? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguR15PfoymPXKf6GsPxXcV7y3ZNp58YVei3Sr7oYr28pv8mGnPE_e7ZzwY0YlrUA-9om1UJM5_MTErCr-92RtvANlluZSqyfENuaPSg9DxELFw7n9mQwSRsC7InvEbmKWkFZULVHdCTxE/s1600/IMG_3864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguR15PfoymPXKf6GsPxXcV7y3ZNp58YVei3Sr7oYr28pv8mGnPE_e7ZzwY0YlrUA-9om1UJM5_MTErCr-92RtvANlluZSqyfENuaPSg9DxELFw7n9mQwSRsC7InvEbmKWkFZULVHdCTxE/s1600/IMG_3864.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now this is the story all about how my hole got flip turned upside down...<br />
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Okay, awful, I know. But it got covered, not flip turned upside down. But I'd still like to take a minute, just sit right there, I'll tell you all about how I did it with a bit of cheap flair...<br />
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All right, all right. I'll stop. It's bad, I know. <br />
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My hole was used over Christmas for my cute little Christmas village:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtkq57anUDQ3Q8HPMVe7c9VDggr156tefA8MP_qP1MxmR_Qn2PbAkiRfonEGk0sGMeBtspuFOxGwiydh1eQ20Q2kSVlvMQz3s04kHPSzLmOotigISCPF3cki7EVlyp5nOUF-Fq-98vEf8/s1600/IMG_1854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtkq57anUDQ3Q8HPMVe7c9VDggr156tefA8MP_qP1MxmR_Qn2PbAkiRfonEGk0sGMeBtspuFOxGwiydh1eQ20Q2kSVlvMQz3s04kHPSzLmOotigISCPF3cki7EVlyp5nOUF-Fq-98vEf8/s1600/IMG_1854.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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But otherwise, it was completely useless to us. So, I had the brilliant idea to cover it with paneling. Similar to this look, which I found on Pinterest:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUepbFpqtx_Ek2uZC26TRQYTO5u_8D8nJ5hS2AMjD2g_aGB5JfpgkrQz9E-tW5wayxBXhpp7eAP9ukmRC_YNyS0YozVA8B3_zAyAQQMFu3UB_jY4ehVAoOnhBcdbVwYlL0UDDQJAy4u8k/s1600/5429b16a003271e3713b07c420b813ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUepbFpqtx_Ek2uZC26TRQYTO5u_8D8nJ5hS2AMjD2g_aGB5JfpgkrQz9E-tW5wayxBXhpp7eAP9ukmRC_YNyS0YozVA8B3_zAyAQQMFu3UB_jY4ehVAoOnhBcdbVwYlL0UDDQJAy4u8k/s1600/5429b16a003271e3713b07c420b813ad.jpg" height="400" width="290" /></a></div>
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I used <a href="http://www.domesticimperfection.com/2012/08/how-to-make-a-plank-wall/" target="_blank">a tutorial here</a> to help me with what material to use. In all, I only spent about 30.00 on this project which was awesome. Almost half of that was the amount for the boards that were cut (about 14.00). I simply took a picture and showed it to the Home Depot guy and he showed me the board, I told him the measurements I needed, and he cut them. Easy-peasy. <br />
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The not so easy part was figuring out a stud. See, I wanted to place a 2x4 stud in the middle of the hole for better support; and, in case I wanted to hang something on the finished paneling, there would be a stud right in the middle to nail/screw into. <br />
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So I took the measurement for the opening from the top of the hole to the top of the shelf and added a 2x4 (cut to size by HD again).<br />
I simply screwed it in on the bottom:<br />
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And then used an L brace on the top back portion of the stud:<br />
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But when I started to place the planks there was still a gap between the plank and the 2x4 because the shelving unit was slightly inset from the surrounding wall (you can sort of see what I mean in the above pic). This caused the gap below:<br />
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<em>Ugh. </em>I've never professed to being a carpenter or "handy". Mostly I just wing it. I'm sure a true DIY would've figured this out ahead of time and done it in a neater fashion. All I do is rig stuff!<br />
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So I had to improvise and add another board (I used a fence post board I had laying around for the thin width). That way when I placed the planks against the wall it also was flush with the "stud" in the middle. <br />
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After that it was smooth sailing. I simply used finishing nails (already had) and nailed the planks in the wall. They were very thin and light so no screws were needed. Oh, and if you're wondering about the fact that I'm closing up the cable plug- there were already 2 more set up in the living room (yay). So I was only closing one that would never been used. <br />
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Here it is half way through:<br />
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And after nailing them all in:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1vIDXi7674cTYTuBwh9QMWHkMdrP0_-cWOkc6sJ2hA7cKnSmVaupYCRJvHl3kRcQtOGd8XJAJD7w4ducYBzNQmqUeydO3U7sUjO5Iide3vWkOuvmv3Q6EmqQEvaWdXg27ftqC1sS_Cs/s1600/IMG_2076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1vIDXi7674cTYTuBwh9QMWHkMdrP0_-cWOkc6sJ2hA7cKnSmVaupYCRJvHl3kRcQtOGd8XJAJD7w4ducYBzNQmqUeydO3U7sUjO5Iide3vWkOuvmv3Q6EmqQEvaWdXg27ftqC1sS_Cs/s1600/IMG_2076.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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I also added small trim to the sides for a more finished look to cover the rough edges:<br />
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All of this was accomplished by simple finishing nails since the plywood was so very light. I didn't liquid nails any of the boards even though I could have for a more secure fit, because I wanted to give the next owners the option to take it down without ruining the drywall (though Luhvah pointed out that it's unlikely they'd even know it was there, nor would they need it open since it's for the old tube tvs).<br />
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Now all that's left is priming and painting. <br />
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I'll be back later to show you the finished results!<br />
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<br />She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-60248854876648941292014-02-20T22:20:00.000-06:002014-02-20T22:20:48.216-06:00Open shelvingOpen shelving in the kitchen is so popular.<br />
Here's the evidence all over pinterest:<br />
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So I figured it'd be a great way to add more space to my teenie-tiny kitchen. Plus, I'd had open shelving on one of my cupboards at the Kingdom:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZEEFzLeywh8T3p5oP1vyKtD5XuI4CUaOFbBOn-xWelcPbOH96YFR894ROmXEQYb0vg-0m-V_MxK4VuJvqbkFNqoqQf-7z5Uo7ckWk2fV81aO3aKLoEo-_aKjzXtYkEnJzH4ir6YWqVjs/s1600/IMG_1921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZEEFzLeywh8T3p5oP1vyKtD5XuI4CUaOFbBOn-xWelcPbOH96YFR894ROmXEQYb0vg-0m-V_MxK4VuJvqbkFNqoqQf-7z5Uo7ckWk2fV81aO3aKLoEo-_aKjzXtYkEnJzH4ir6YWqVjs/s1600/IMG_1921.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I'd really gotten used to the easy access to my plates/bowls on display so I liked the idea of having that at The Miracle as well. </div>
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This time I had to build shelves which was easy as apple pie. I shamelessly stole the corbel look from <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2012/02/thems-the-brackets/">Young House Love:</a></div>
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<a href="http://images.younghouselove.com.s3.amazonaws.com/2012/02/Shelves-1-5-Selected-Bracke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.younghouselove.com.s3.amazonaws.com/2012/02/Shelves-1-5-Selected-Bracke.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the end I don't think I got the right lumber- I believe mine was 12" wide but only 1" thick (I believe theirs was 2" thick). Basically, my board was skinnier looking than theirs. I used "common board" from HD and for a 10ft length it was 20.00. I had it cut into 3 shelves of 40" each. Which worked perfectly on my wall. The corbels were 10.00 each so for 6 it was 60.00+ 20.00= 80.00 for custom shelves.</div>
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Then I got to painting everything white. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyicoT2SHNYlHK-ZxwzR7-1bbFvuXlKo2LB1yoib6Ijcj4s22vyY2L_rmuHMl0wt-P3pBCRc_2Yn8JODlLVr0sXJrZB2bv1OMU775gg0ZCdCjkwu5sri6VFyDQR2JDTMWGchTQNRYFDFU/s1600/corbels+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyicoT2SHNYlHK-ZxwzR7-1bbFvuXlKo2LB1yoib6Ijcj4s22vyY2L_rmuHMl0wt-P3pBCRc_2Yn8JODlLVr0sXJrZB2bv1OMU775gg0ZCdCjkwu5sri6VFyDQR2JDTMWGchTQNRYFDFU/s400/corbels+2.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Here's the finished product:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipzviSH429XttbcpJKwfGxjN5xzxSvkkicD0-g7lSWbK8Dn8qHK7Oy-p36iYbxHj9pUdl0jEnW74146mFzzBqFuD7oiXcSXUce7AYum_CZBYPqzgmeUlIyu6OpslRDYA06Ew1vSFEkBAg/s1600/far+shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipzviSH429XttbcpJKwfGxjN5xzxSvkkicD0-g7lSWbK8Dn8qHK7Oy-p36iYbxHj9pUdl0jEnW74146mFzzBqFuD7oiXcSXUce7AYum_CZBYPqzgmeUlIyu6OpslRDYA06Ew1vSFEkBAg/s1600/far+shelf.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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It gives me much needed space and it's cute as well! I painted the ceiling (see how low it is! Argh!) Which helps with the dungeon but there's still plenty to do in this kitchen. </div>
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I need to paint the cabinets and I will also be trying my hand at painting the ugly laminate counters soon. My job is not over in my attempt to make this kitchen feel more spacious and less like a cave. </div>
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But for now I like the open shelving. It gives me more space and the common dishes used are easily accessible. Check off one more thing that makes this place feel more like home. </div>
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<br />She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-50362464238818760392014-02-16T21:05:00.000-06:002014-02-16T21:05:16.383-06:00Busy, Busy, Busy...I haven't checked in for awhile and that's cuz I've been hell-a busy at The Miracle on 134th St. <br />
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Mostly painting the crap outta it. It's really popular to paint ceilings the same color as the walls here in OK, which I dislike. So, not only am I dealing with changing all the dreaded smoker's yellow trim, I've also had the added task of painting the ceilings back to flat white. It's worth it though because it opens the space up so much better! For example, the kitchen has a really low ceiling. with the same color ceiling as the walls it makes an already low kitchen ceiling feel so.much.lower. I feel like I'm in a cave.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmOryATmSnVLP66ffMfYbs1x6bwN4RfNL5PQBYO_vrJO-o2shAGZg6b4gWnqeGXcefB6S4S_X4wXVe1nN_3YGSQ3Y-2L25CUb4hD0jOvlnQBLExN9VpBFi7ogr6XsPyfulFTphSJb4kE/s1600/IMG_4167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmOryATmSnVLP66ffMfYbs1x6bwN4RfNL5PQBYO_vrJO-o2shAGZg6b4gWnqeGXcefB6S4S_X4wXVe1nN_3YGSQ3Y-2L25CUb4hD0jOvlnQBLExN9VpBFi7ogr6XsPyfulFTphSJb4kE/s1600/IMG_4167.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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(I have no idea why it's so low because they vaulted the ceiling in the living room and it doesn't make any sense why they wouldn't make the kitchen ceiling higher too). Painting ceilings was a must.<br />
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I've also been hanging shelves in the kitchen (more on that to come), organizing and unpacking (remember I'm not one of those who unpacks immediately, I wait to see how we live in the house first...so, despite the fact that we've lived at the Miracle for about 4 months now, I still have some boxes to unpack),<br />
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and other odd projects here and there. <br />
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I've hardly hung anything or done much "decorating". In fact, most of my "decor stuff" is in my guest bedroom ready and waiting to be used or look pretty.<br />
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This wall is primarily filled with decorative items or furniture. What I don't use in decorating I will get rid of (garage sale when weather is nicer).<br />
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I'm waiting to finish up with all the friggin' painting (grrrr). Which, needless to say, I'm completely burned out on. What with painting all the trim and doors, walls, <em>and</em> ceilings--it's never ending. And I haven't even started on bedrooms-- I'm just talking about the main parts of the house- living, kitchen, dining, entry, and halls. Tedious work + me burned out on painting = coming along slowly.<br />
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And since I haven't really decorated it's kinda silly to show you my house considering most of it's blank walls.<br />
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I'm filling my time with cleaning out my boxes:<br />
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and organizing (okay, sort of organizing- at least you can see the bed now! You couldn't in the pic above):<br />
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But I will be posting more because I've been doing some projects I wouldn't mind showing you. <br />
More to come!!!!She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-30693465266403043922013-11-06T11:21:00.002-06:002013-11-06T11:29:16.810-06:00Settling In...The Miracle on 134 Ct<div class="MsoNormal">
Well, like always, I’m more behind than ahead when it comes
to blogging. Okay, scratch that. I’m more behind on <em><strong>more than blogging</strong></em> but that
will be our little secret, ‘mmmkay? It’s been a whirlwind few months since we've moved and we finally found a house and started the process of settling in to school, work, home. </div>
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There are many moments over the past few months that I've screamed <strike>out loud</strike>,in my head "What was I THINKING! AAAAHHHHHH!" but in the end I'm hoping it's all working out for the best. Slowly but surely I'm finding a way to make this place our new home. </div>
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Since we finally did find a new house (and moved in) I wanted to take a moment <strike>to breathe</strike> to show you the new digs. I've taken to calling it The Miracle on 134 Ct. cuz it's a miracle that we even found a house that worked for both me and Luhvah. We both had very specific things we wanted in a house and it was difficult in a tiny little Oklahoma town to find all those things together (without building). </div>
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It isn't my forever home by any means but I still like it and am just grateful to have our own place again (living with other people tries my patience greatly).</div>
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Let's start with the outside. It has great curb appeal already and is situated at the end of a cul-de-sac. </div>
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This time around we wanted a single story home. Luhvah wanted something smaller and more manageable so we did some downsizing too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOES7kD19K_bFApkWJQn4xnyT8x1tZlVhyphenhyphenBNqqdRt2_-bRHAQf6GqS_FLoO4mhyiQBOXinGrx6-WO1kxBZEppU1tnE-rlV7lY_6XgRngEnDDQvrOJiJfsulRSQgWP2PFCe5a10V_6i5Jw/s1600/IMG_3834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOES7kD19K_bFApkWJQn4xnyT8x1tZlVhyphenhyphenBNqqdRt2_-bRHAQf6GqS_FLoO4mhyiQBOXinGrx6-WO1kxBZEppU1tnE-rlV7lY_6XgRngEnDDQvrOJiJfsulRSQgWP2PFCe5a10V_6i5Jw/s400/IMG_3834.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love the front porch area. It's so open and wide which gives me more room to decorate. </div>
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I already started adding pretty things. I'm so glad to come back to colder weather where I get pretty mums:<br />
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Walking into the home we have an entry. Which again, is nice and big (these are from the inside looking into entry).<br />
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I plan on putting in some hooks for hanging backpacks, etc.similar to this:<br />
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Going into the living room we have high ceilings and a fireplace! YAY! It's a gas fireplace, not wood, which is kinda a bummer but it's super convenient since all we have to do is flip a light switch and voila! Instant fire! I plan on getting a fire crackling CD and wood burning candles to hopefully recreate the similar ambiance of a wood burning fireplace. Oh, and have I mentioned that every inch of this house has smokers yellow baseboards/crowns/doors/ fireplace moldings? Ugh. Crack open the white paint can.<br />
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Oh and this opening above the fireplace?<br />
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It's going to be filled in (since we don't use it for tv or anything). I'm thinking of something like this:<br />
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From the living we walk into the breakfast nook. This is where part of the downgrade comes- we don't have a formal dining room. We hardly ever used ours before. It's a bummer for holidays to not have a big dining area, but in the end this little space works for us on a day to day basis since it's just the 3 of us. </div>
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I plan on having a bench built in the nook area for more storage of non-every day items. Like this:<br />
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Which brings us to the kitchen. <i>Not big</i>. I compare this kitchen to my old one and this is where I am most disappointed in the house. Certainly it's smaller (I equate this kitchen to the size of an apartment kitchen -which is just wrong when talking about a <i>house</i>). To maximize my space I've had to get inventive with where to put things. Because there is literally only <i><b>4 full cabinets</b></i>. Most average house kitchens have at least 8+ full size cabinets. Every cabinet you see in these pics (besides the 4) are narrow cabinets, akin to those which are used to store tall, thin cookie sheets etc.<br />
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I plan to hang open shelves on the blank wall (more on that to come). And, as I said, I will build a bench in the breakfast nook to acquire extra storage space. To make it feel more spacious I'll be painting the cabinets white as well. Although I'm so glad to see that these cabinets aren't honey oak, I'm still gonna paint them because this kitchen has a low ceiling and feels like a cave. So I need something to make it feel bigger and brighter. And bigger. Oh wait. I already said that. </div>
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Anyhow...Down the hallway it leads to 2 bedrooms and a bath. The bedrooms are much bigger than my previous house which Monkey really loves. My 3rd bedroom (aka guest room), has been doubling as a storage room for all the things that we don't need right this minute. It has condensed 3 rooms from my previous home into 1 (the loft, guest bedroom, and formal dining room). Although I did get rid of many of the large pieces of furniture in Florida there are still tons of<i><b> things</b></i> I've kept. I'll probably be having a garage sale for some of this stuff at some point.<br />
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Moving back over to the other side of the house we have the master, laundry room, and a small nook/hall between the two.<br />
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I really like this nook because it's a place we can throw our keys and stuff when we come in from the garage (which is attached to laundry like most houses). The laundry room is also much bigger than our previous house. Which I like. In the nook I've already found an awesome little secretary desk that my mom was nice enough to give me (for FREE!) that fits perfectly in the area. Eventually I will be painting it (I'm thinking a pretty pop of muted seafoam or aqua).<br />
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Master Bedroom- a disaster but big. </div>
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Master bath- another disaster, average size. I will say the Master bath is the second place I'm a little disappointed in. The layout is all wrong and I really hate having the closests<i> in the bathroom</i>. Some people like that but not me. They are his and her closests which are a pretty good size.<br />
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I realized when blogging this that I have no pictures of the backyard (what is it with me and not taking pics of a backyard?). But we have a nice porch with deck. The backyard is narrow but long so it's a nice size. Hopefully Monkey and I will be starting a small garden in the spring so we'll see how that goes. I plan on planting a couple of trees as well since I think it's in need of some privacy from the 4 separate homes that abutt us (the downside to living at the end of a cul-de-sac with a large backyard). And there are some other problematic things in the backyard. The back of the house needs a flower bed area to stop water from settling against the home which would also help with aesthetics as well. I also want another fire pit, which we need to build. I'm hoping to make this into a bit of an oasis. I'll post pics soon of it but with winter coming on not much will be done with it until spring anyway.<br />
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And before I leave let me keep it real. Our rooms mostly look like this right now:<br />
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Okay, well it's not quite that bad (these were taken 3-4 days in) but even now, a month in, we still have a lot of clutter and boxes. I'm not one of those "get everything outta the boxes and find a place for it within 24 hours" kinda gals. I'm more of the "learn the way the house functions best for you by living in it and then put things where they seem to flow best" kinda gals. So there's still plenty of stuff in boxes or pushed outta the way but needs to find a place to be hung/set, etc. </div>
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So, that's it. The Miracle on 134 Ct.<br />
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By the way, looking back at all these pictures I realize I do an awful job of getting a complete pic. Some of these pics don't even show the full scope of a room in it's entirety. <br />
But stay tuned because I'm going to try and blog more often from now on, now that things are settling down a bit with jobs, life, etc. and you'll be seeing more of it as I go. <br />
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-74694529640881360832013-08-11T18:22:00.000-05:002013-08-11T18:56:24.927-05:00Move. and a house tour...Sorry for the long hiatus. My life has been flip turned upside (name that song!) and I've been so busy I haven't had time to blog. <br />
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But remember back when I wrote<a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2013/01/a-whole-new-year2013.html"> this post</a> at the beginning of the year? My word for 2013 is <em><strong>move. </strong></em><br />
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Well, that was a very intentional word. Not only did I remark on the running aspect of <em>move</em> (I finished my first ever half marathon - you can read all about it<a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2013/03/131-milesthe-princess-half.html"> here</a>) but I also had a little secret that couldn't yet be told- move meant so much more to me. We were literally <em><strong>moving this year. </strong></em><br />
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This has been in the works since last year and now that summer has come and gone, and Monkey is outta school, it finally happened. Moving. We didn't just move to a new place but moved out of state. Scary. I've never made a secret of the fact that Florida is not the place for me (just read about the many things I don't like about Florida<a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2010/08/rainbow-cupcakes.html"> here</a> and <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2009/10/is-fall-here-i-didnt-notice.html">here</a>).<br />
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While I was excited about moving there are things I will miss. One of the things I will sorely miss is my home and neighborhood. <em>I. absolutely. love. it.</em> I mean, if I could transport my house (and neighborhood) to the new state- I would! But alas, tis not possible. <br />
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As anyone who's ever moved or sold a house knows, there is plenty that has to be done. I'm not going to drone on about a bunch of moving tips or anything but I wanted to discuss the aspect of selling. Selling your house is definitely a stress maker.<br />
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And I gotta say, when you start getting ready to sell your house you realize all the things you've neglected cuz <strike>you're lazy</strike> you're just okay living with it. Cuz it's <em>your house</em>. So, you think- I'll get around to that sometime. If I were a stay-at-home mom I wouldn't have been that neglectful. But with both of us working full time our weekends are precious <strike>(and the lazy in me couldn't be bothered).</strike><br />
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But when you're getting your house ready to sell... well, all those things come screaming out at ya. Cuz nobody wants to see that when buying a home. Neglect I mean. For example:<br />
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Smoke detectors you couldn't bother to replace cuz you already had 4 more in your house so you left the wires hanging out? Check.<br />
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The curb appeal you just never got around to making cuz it required 1 full weekend of your time (and manual labor-shudder!)? Check.<br />
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Finishing those baseboards that started out that awful creamy smokers yellow and you only painted half of them in the house? Check.<br />
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Unfinished <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/stairs-reveal.html">stairs project</a> - that you hadn't touched in 2 years? Check. yes, I lived 2 years in my house with half my stairs looking like this: <br />
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Holes that hadn't been filled, scuffs that needed painting, cabinets that needed painting, rooms that needed decorating, and the cleaning of clutter, clutter, clutter everywhere. Our lists were miles long. <br />
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So, needless to say, I've been busy. Every weekend was dedicated to painting, spackling, packing, painting, painting, painting. If I don't paint for years I'd be happy. But paint works wonders on the overall look of a house (apart from deep cleaning/decluttering). They aren't kidding when they say it's the cheapest way to make an impact. <br />
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All of this to say- I've never really shown pictures of my house. I've shown bits and pieces when doing a project but never really a full tour of it. <br />
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And now that it's "sell ready" I figure I might as well show her off. For posterity's sake. So, enough babbling. Let's take a tour shall we? <br />
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The outside of the house makes the biggest impact so we made sure most of our "upgrade money" went there. We replaced the sod (ourselves to save $) and had the house painted (contracted out). In the 8 years we've lived here we never had it painted and I don't believe the people before us had it done either so it had been well over 10 years since it'd been painted. It needed it. Here are the after pics:<br />
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Look how lush that grass is! Ugh. it's so beautiful I wanna roll around in it. But don't be fooled, Florida grasses are very hard (this is St. Augustine -very typical grass for Florida). It looks lush but it feels stiff-not soft like you'd expect. That's probably why it looks so good from far away though- the upright, stiff, wide blade of it. <br />
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I don't have a close up of the front door but it looks pretty similar to when I last<a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/before-after-front-door-makeover.html"> redid</a> it.<br />
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here's the living room. Our house has an open floor plan and vaulted ceilings into a loft and I love how much light that huge window always brought in (colors on the wall- Light color is Revere Pewter by BenMoore and the Dark color is Rockport Gray by BM). It was difficult painting those high walls but we got it done. Here's the befores:<br />
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And the afters:<br />
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From the living room we move to the breakfast nook. </div>
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Just to show you how lazy I've been- I got those shutters from my In-laws who were getting rid of them about 3 years ago. I've known what I wanted to do with them for over 2 years. I just hung them this year. Lazy.<br />
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The wall they are hanging on used to be red in color. I got tired of that very quickly but only painted it last year when we started actually getting serious about fixing the house up (in preparation for moving!). <br />
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Here's before - you can see the red. It's also a good view of the HOFF (Honey Oak Furniture Flip) that I did on the before kitchen cabinets:<br />
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Anyhow. On to the kitchen. You've seen the most recent pics of it when I <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/kitchen-cabinet-reveal.html">redid the cabinets</a> last year:<br />
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If you'll notice from the other post on the kitchen reveal we've now upgraded our fridge and microwave so it's more seamless rather than those ugly smokers yellow appliances. <br />
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Then we come to the formal dining room:<br />
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Looks a little barren. But it's not much too different from before other than the wall color (BM Rockport Gray) and major decluttering. Here's the before with buttery yellow walls (unk color-was here when we moved in):<br />
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Ironically enough I think the before is nicer. Warmer. But the wall color really had to go and I couldn't keep all that stuff out so, it looks kinda cold now. It could really use a rug in there but oh wells. Working with what I got trying not to spend too much.<br />
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The downstairs powder room:<br />
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Difficult to get a good pic in here. It's tiny. I painted the cabinets black, hung a mirror on the builders mirror. Added new fixtures and that's about it. The wall color is unknown since I just color matched it from the previous owners. <br />
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Further down the hall is the laundry room. I didn't do too much special to this room. It was on the backburner and therefore just functional:<br />
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Downstairs is the master bedroom (which I didn't particularly like being separate from the other rooms).We painted the room a dark, moody color (which I have no idea what it was- it was an OOPS Olympic paint from Lowes): </div>
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But I was in loooooove with the bathroom:<br />
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Again, we painted the cabinets (which was another HOFF project). And I just laid another mirror I had on the builders mirror. New fixtures all around make it more updated. <br />
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Heading upstairs (which are finally done!) :<br />
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into the loft area:<br />
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This was another one of those quickie fixes. We cleared out A LOT of clutter and just rearranged a little. You can even see I failed to put up the curtains I had and I just left it. EH. I call it done. Up here we replaced the carpet (realllly needed it!) and painted and that's about it. You can see I haven't painted that awful Honey Oak futon. It's just crying for a HOFF project makeover. <br />
Wall color is BM Revere Pewter as well like most of the common areas of the house.<br />
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Down the hall we have 2 bedrooms and a full bath:<br />
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You've already seen <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2013/02/teen-girls-bedroom-makeover.html">Monkey's teen room</a>:<br />
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But I'm not sure if I ever showed you the guest bedroom before. It's one of my favorite rooms in the house:<br />
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I actually redid this one almost as soon as we moved in, ages ago, so I didn't have to do anything to it to make it stage ready (wall color is a basic white above and a custom mixed color below that I made with leftover paint colors I didn't like). The chandelier is a decal from whatisblik.com<br />
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Then there is the full bath upstairs:<br />
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Again, painted the honey oak cabinets. I used the same paint color I used on the baseboards throughout the house- a straight off the shelf Behr paint and primer in one white. I even left the old hardware that the previous owners had on it (beach shells and seahorses) not my taste but I was just trying to make it prettier. Not everything is perfect. This is a full bath but I didn't take a pic of the tub/shower. <br />
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And that's it. Our little Kingdom that we sold. I am more than grateful that we sold quickly so that we could move on with little problem but I still struggle with sadness that we left our first home. It was my daughter's childhood home and she will always consider this her home I think.<br />
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I am now living with my sister (OMG NOOOOOOOOOOOO) who has been kind enough to take in me, my husband, and daughter along with a cat and dog until we find a house in the new state of Oklahoma (to be closer to family).<br />
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I just had to show and tell for posterity's sake so that I would have a written document of everything. Unfortunately I didn't get pics of the backyard. I am trying to push off any sadness I have for moving and leaving our home for excitement on starting on a new home with all new decorating potential (which my husband and I have made a pact to not neglect like we did with this house.)<br />
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So that's it. Except to say--moving is hard. And very sad. :(<br />
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-27123378196860799922013-04-17T20:20:00.000-05:002013-04-17T20:20:33.166-05:00Look how optimistic I am!I think I'm becoming more optimistic. I've always been a glass is half empty kinda gal with sarcasm aplenty. So, it came as quite a surprise when I realized that I was starting to see things with a silver lining. <br />
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The other night I had a dream that someone died in my bedroom while I was in the kitchen (freak accident). If you've seen Inception (or have ever dreamed) then you know that dreams feel real when we're in them--it's only when we wake up that we realize something is strange or off. <br />
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So, when I walked in and found my friend dead in the bedroom I immediately thought I'd<em> murdered</em> her. When Luh-vah came home (in the dream), I distraughtly told him that I'd murdered someone and didn't know what to do. <br />
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And, nice guy that he is, <br />
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<em><strong>he helped me hide the body.</strong></em> In the wall<strong><em>.</em></strong> <br />
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About a week after, when we were attempting to patch the drywall, I had a bout of conscienceness and told Luhvah that maybe we should call the police. Which concerned us cuz we'd sat on a dead body for a week and attempted to hide it. We knew that <em>that </em>wouldn't go over well with the police. </div>
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Long story short, I woke up from the dream with this takeaway: </div>
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Even in my dreams I know Luhvah's got my back. I trust him and I honestly know he'd be there for me in my time of need-even if that need<em><strong> is</strong></em> to hide a dead body. </div>
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<em>Check it--<strong>silver lining baby</strong></em>.<br />
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-59978133399220194672013-03-25T14:24:00.000-05:002013-03-25T14:24:00.535-05:00Analyze this:What does it mean when I find the brightest part of my day is the joy I felt when my phone <em><strong>didn't</strong></em> autocorrect the word ''shit'' when I used it? <br />
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I guess my phone has resigned itself that I will never change my vulgarity to "shut". <br />
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One point = me.<br />
Zero points = autocorrect.<br />
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-80437382464661116332013-03-22T07:57:00.001-05:002013-03-22T07:57:05.318-05:0013.1 MILES...The Princess HalfSo, I did. I <em>finally</em> did it. It hurt. I'm not gonna lie. <br />
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I won't bore you with all the gory details (okay, I will--- just for my own record.) But I'll try and make it interesting at least.<br />
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Once Upon A Time... a *ahem* <em>youngish</em> girl (suspend reality a little for this story) set off on an adventure at the Most Magical Place On Earth:<br />
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It all started out benign and exciting. With the allure of the Expo to win her over, our heroine Princess had a grand time getting checked in and browsing the many booths of running paraphenalia. <br />
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Though she was nervous, she knew once it all began that peace would come to her, just as it had at every other run she went on. Still, the butterflies in her stomach would not be contained when she saw the clock counting down as if it were recording a silent death notice:<br />
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Nevertheless, our Heroine Princess found happiness amongst her peers:<br />
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After an exciting day at the Expo it was time to fall into a <strike>deep</strike> not-so-deep slumber. This Heroine Princess had to wake early:<br />
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And dressed in her appropriate Princess outfit:<br />
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With even her glass slippers upon her feet :<br />
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She prepared to embark into the unknown.<br />
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Upon arriving at the waiting location our Heroine Princess took many pictures of the festivities to alleviate her growing anxiety:<br />
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But, alas, before she knew it, it was time for her long (20 minute!) walk <strike>down the plank</strike> to neverland:<br />
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Little did she know, the 2 hour preliminary wait before her run would be her undoing.<br />
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After a very long and lonely wait our Heroine Princess was off! (along with 3000 other people in her group). In all, there were 23,000 runners!<br />
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The Fairy Godmother did right by her and gave a magical send off:<br />
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And just like that, she began the ardurous journey set before her:<br />
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The first paced time of her journey wasn't <em>too</em> bad...despite having a very slow running pace due to the large number of people crowding her:<br />
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It could have been worse. At this point, our Heroine Princess still felt like she had a chance... she was optimistically hopeful that she would be able to finish in a reasonable amount of time...with little to no pain <strike>(ahhh, the optimism of the innocent running virgin!). </strike><br />
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She continued on and arrived at the edge of the Magical Land:<br />
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When she arrived at the castle her hope and vigor was kept strong by the wondrous sites she saw:<br />
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Before she knew it she was almost half way done:</div>
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That is when it started getting very trying. Our poor Heroine Princess was tiring quickly and her feet were much too sore to run well. (If she had truly been chased by some awful monsters no doubt she would not have won.) She slowed down considerably coming up to the 8 mile marker:</div>
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And it was noticeable in her 15K (9 miles) timed pace:</div>
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By the time she rounded the 10 mile marker she was thoroughly exhausted and her feet would barely carry her more than a slow jog. </div>
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It certainly did not help that the crowd was still thick as thieves and she had difficulty going around slower runners without weaving -which caused her to expend her energy faster. </div>
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With much effort, and little peace, our Princess finally came to her last mile:</div>
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The most excruciating mile yet. Although there were distractions:</div>
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our Princess could barely stand the pounding of the pavement. Dismayed by her running time as well, she was feeling all but spent. She did not trust to hope that the finish line would come soon.</div>
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That last mile hurt the most. It did our Heroine in. By the time she crossed the finish line she was very near to tears. Still, she held her head up high and smiled:</div>
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She had done it! She did not need a Prince Charming to come and rescue her --she had accomplished so much on her own! And yet, when all was said and done...he was there, her Prince:</div>
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There to help her as she ungracefully hobbled the half mile to the car. There to tell her he was so proud of her. There when she teared up for some unnamed reason...the relief that it was over? the regret that her time wasn't better? the pain felt in every step she took? What it was, she could not say. But she was glad, nonetheless, that he was with her. He reminded her of the great feat she had accomplished-something no one else had done (okay, maybe 23,000 others had too...). </div>
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When she got back to her car and (finally!) sat down she was able to reflect and realize it <em><strong>was</strong></em> a great accomplisment. And upon reflection, she found her pride in herself. And she realized she did pretty well, all things considered. </div>
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<br />After all, it was all about getting the shiny medal anyway.</div>
She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-46649273949996799632013-03-02T11:42:00.000-06:002013-03-02T11:42:01.428-06:00It's that time again!!! Happy Birthday Seester!These are a few of the things I'd like to say to her today:<br />
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She's going out with her friends to karaoke for her birthday and I just wanted to make a request for her to sing------ It's My Party!</div>
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Happy Birthday sister and I hope you have a great weekend without "wishing I were there with you" too much! </div>
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-25383594367134908832013-02-06T20:32:00.000-06:002013-02-06T20:32:46.069-06:00Teen Girl's Bedroom MakeoverI finally (finally!) put the finishing touches on Monkey's teen room. I am pleased to announce it's pretty much done! And I'm happy to say she loves it (as do I!). <br />
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Remember when I posted the <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/before-teen-tornado.html">hideousness of before</a>:<br />
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Run-down, tired, and pathetic (and that's just <em><strong>ME</strong></em>---take a look at how bad that room is too!). <br />
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So, it was time to paint, paint, and paint some more. Everything got stripped down and moved out to start over. Anyhow, enough talk. Let's look at pictures! <br />
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Like I said, we really love the way it turned out. Aside from the fact that her dresser is on it's last leg. My mother is giving me an old dresser that I will probably use for her room eventually and get rid of this one. You can see in the pic it's peeling. But I used what I had. No big upgrades for this makeover.<br />
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On to the breakdown:<br />
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-Paint on walls (Valspar paint and primer in one -a paint brand I <em><strong>wouldn't</strong></em> recommend- it was very thin and coverage wasn't great IMO- color was: Silver Birch)- $30.00<br />
-Paint for bed (SW color matched in Behr-Sea Salt)- $3.00<br />
- Paint for dresser (SW color matched in Behr-All ablaze)- $12.00<br />
-Turquoise Quilt (Home Goods)- $40.00<br />
-White blanket (Ralph Lauren-Goodwill thrift find)- $4.00<br />
-Coral blanket (Old Time Pottery)- $12.00<br />
- Coral pillow (Ralph Lauren-Marshalls)-$16.00<br />
-Turquoise Chevron (cover-Hobby Lobby)-$3.50<br />
-Curtains (Ikea AS-IS section-1 panel made into 2)-$4.00<br />
-Dragonfly art (Xmas gift from family-dipped in coral paint to pop on wall)-$0.00<br />
-Dressing room sign (old from when I worked at Ross in college!!! Blast from my past and love that I can use in my teens room!)-$0.00<br />
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<strong>Total spent: $124.50!!</strong><br />
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<br />She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-89983005582232920022013-01-15T15:07:00.000-06:002013-01-15T15:07:37.829-06:00Sweets for the SweetOkay, not really. Sweets for me (who's not so sweet but really more sour). If we're talking sweet I have to say that Luhvah takes the <strike>cup</strike>cake on that one. I'm more of an acquired taste (if you're into <strike> bitchiness</strike> stubborn women who like to talk back and never shut up). <br />
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So, I worked a long day yesterday and didn't get home until 1115pm last night. Then had to be back to work today at 700am. Yeesh. And if you remember, I'm one of those people who needs their <strike>9</strike> <strike>10</strike> 14 hours of beauty sleep. So, the 6 hours I got wasn't really cuttin' it. <br />
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Cue my knight in shining armor on his white stallion (aka Luhvah in a polo and shorts pulling up in his compact car).To hand deliver me this at work:<br />
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Just a little summin' summin' to get me through my day. I mean, helloooo SUGGGGGARRRRRRRRR!<br />
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Aren't they so pretty too?<br />
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He gets big big BIG points for this one. Inventive and surprising <strike>plus CHOCOLATE</strike> it was a wonderful little gift that I will forever remember in my <strike>hips</strike> heart. He said he passed this cupcake shop while running errands on a side of town that we don't typically traverse and thought about stopping in. So, he went the extra mile and instead of getting one for <i>him</i> he got <b>4 </b>for me! YAY!<br />
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Off to eat my lovely lil' cupcakes. <br />
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<br />She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-33588681985848297792013-01-08T11:20:00.000-06:002013-01-08T11:20:31.214-06:00A Whole New Year...2013I've been pretty much MIA since November. On one hand, this makes perfect sense- the holidays are always hectic and it really makes it difficult to blog. On the other hand, it's when I decorate the most, as well as craft, so it seems like I would have more to post. I do (did) but I just couldn't be bothered with the actual posting so, of course, it fell by the wayside (it seems a moot point to post 50 pictures of Thanksgiving decor, then Christmas happenings after the new year doesn't it?). <br />
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So, we're just moving on to something else (pun intended) [you'll get the pun in a minute]. And that brings me to <a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/">The Lettered Cottage</a> (one of my favorite blogs). Layla talked about having a word of the year. She mentioned this about a week or two ago and I thought of what my word would be back then. Today she's having a linky party to celebrate words of the year and it reminded me of my word again.<br />
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<b><i>MOVE. </i></b>{please refer to pun above}<br />
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Almost instantly it came to me so it had to be God - it was so quick. I'm never quick with deciding words- I have too many choices, too many words to play with that I love, so I would have pondered <strike>for awhile</strike> forever on <i>the exact right word to fit me for 2013 and still be eloquent. </i>If it had been <b>me</b> I'm sure it would have taken much longer to decide. <br />
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Move can mean so much. It's an action word (something the sloth in me hates). I know right now it means a lot to me because of this:<br />
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Since I'm training for a half marathon it's really meant to motivate me. Seeing her linky party reminded me of the word and it brings a whole new meaning to me today. <br />
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See, 2.5 weeks ago I hurt my foot. Something that I thought was a little thing has turned into a big thing and now I can't run at all right now. I went in last week for Xrays. I can't run a mile without pain shooting up my foot and I can't walk more than 2 miles without it starting to throb. (We're thinking stress fracture-which takes 6-8 weeks to recover). This is very disheartening to me (which is the polite way to say it--really I've cried about it more than once and been a big baby all in all). <br />
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When I hurt my foot I was up to 10 miles. 10 <b><i>MILES</i></b>. I would never have believed that I could be capable of that before. My time was steadily at a 12min. mile. This may be slow for runners out there (average for <i>real </i>runners is 9min miles) but sheesh. The fact that I can keep it up for 10 miles is amazing to me.<br />
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See? Here's the proof:<br />
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The first one is for my 8 mile. Both have me averaging 12min miles.<br />
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For someone who started out running with a program called <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/running-staying-fit-for-zombie.html">"Couch to 5k" </a>you can understand why this is such an accomplishment. <br />
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Especially when I'm getting up on my weekends at 615am and running in the likes of this:<br />
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Okay, so it's no blizzard or below freezing weather but all that fog drenches me by the time I'm done.<br />
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Anyhow. How did this post get turned into a running post?? Oh, right. My word of the day. <b><i>MOVE</i></b>.<br />
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Suffice it to say, I'm not moving too much right now and I'm feeling very defeated. And the jury is still out on whether I will be able to run the half marathon in February. With no running I feel lethargic and unaccomplished.<br />
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So, my word of the year is <b>move</b>. This not only applies to running but also in <i>doing</i>. I am a procrastinator and I tend to be quite lazy so this word-move-should motivate me.<br />
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Some days it will be something as simple as, "Move to the bathroom and brush your teeth."<br />
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Other days it may be "Move your body and run!" (hopefully)<br />
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"Move" can also be used in the terms of something that <i>moves</i> me- aka find more intention in my life. Significance.Find those things that make me have a more meaningful life. <i>Move me</i>. More specifically, get rid of those things that don't. <br />
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So, that's it. Move. move. move. This is the year of <b><i>Moving</i></b>.<br />
Now, if only I could figure out how to work the musical "Moving on Up" into this year it'd be perfect. <br />
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(okay, now it's sounding like those funny wrong words when you say it too much).<br />
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<br />She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-11124753366644336542012-11-09T17:54:00.000-06:002012-11-09T17:54:37.573-06:00Before-The Teen TornadoWe have gotten to the point in my thirteen year old's life that she needs a change. I don't mean plastic surgery change, I mean room re-do change. Much less invasive.<br />
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Now, I'm putting it out there and showing you the before pictures as-is. My daughter is a typical 13 year old and her room is<em> awful</em>! So, try not to judge too much.<br />
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She hasn't had a room re-vamp since she was a young kid-probably 4-5 years ago. At that time, she wanted a jungle theme so we went all crazy with jungle. Doesn't look too great now but it was sooo cool in the eyes of an 8 year old. <br />
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Her room is really rather difficult to take pictures of. The bedrooms are small in our house and hers is a weird shape. It's not a typical square. Her bedroom door is on an angle and it makes it difficult to get a full pic with my crappy camera phone. Here's a basic mock-up of her room.<br />
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And her jungle theme is looking a little worse for wear. Plus, she added in all the One Direction posters (she's obsessed with that band) and it's official-she's outgrown her "kids" room. <br />
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So, we started hunting for a new look. Her favorite color is turquoise blue and it seemed a logical place to start. And since she only halfway cares about decorating I figured I could pretty much have free reign over it as long as I didn't make it too girly=aka PINK (Monkey's a bit of a tomboy). <br />
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Since summer I have been obsessed with turquoise and coral so that's what I decided to go with (not too pink!!!). And she okayed the color pallet. I started pulling pics for inspiration. <br />
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Here are the pinterest pics I found. Some have pink but can easily be adjusted:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/285697170081046547_XeehpHNH_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" rea="true" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/285697170081046547_XeehpHNH_c.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via etsy<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via simply-designgirl (for bedding)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via migonishome<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VIA houseofturquoise<br />
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As you can see I started veering toward that light blue/green seafoam-y color. But my bedding choice brings back the true turquoise for her (which I've failed to take a pic of). <br />
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My plans are to paint her twin bed a color similar to the twin beds above and her dresser that awesome pop of coral. I hope to start her room re-do this weekend (but it won't be done for several weeks). I wanted to show you before pics and inspiration pics. Hopefully the final result will be awesome! <br />
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Cross your fingers for me! :)<br />
She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-46812027312492770152012-11-06T19:38:00.001-06:002012-11-06T19:38:37.532-06:00Opinions on voting and whiskers on minions...Lines at the polls and the lies of politicians...These are a few of my least favorite things. <br />
::::sung to the tune of My Favorite Things from Sound of Music::::<br />
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Okay, well, Julie Andrews would be appalled by my rendition but it's all I've got. <br />
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I certainly wished that I was frolicking through the hills instead of waiting in line for an hour this morning. LOL!<br />
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Just wanted to put in a quick word to say I hope everyone voted today. I'm not the least bit political but I do my part when necessary. I got in line at 630 am and there was already a line out to the road (thank goodness I got a coffee and danish beforehand!). <br />
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And the line behind me got longer very quickly! </div>
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It was a pretty dreary day here as well. Which was no bueno when it came to waiting in a line without an umbrella. <br />
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The helper at the door passed out umbrellas though. He was very helpful. <br />
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Although it took me awhile I felt extraordinarily patriotic filling out my ballot. And luckily, I got the prize at the end of the rainbow:<br />
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It's really all about the sticker for me anyway. <br />
She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-13324536069981414772012-11-01T10:00:00.001-05:002012-11-02T12:21:21.687-05:00Halloween...scare tactics 2012This year for Halloween Luhvah decided to go scary. Our neighborhood kids are getting to the age where little scares them so he decided a creepy clown would be the ticket. We love making homemade costumes. Of course, for me, it's to see how cheap I can possibly make something. For Luhvah's costume we gathered everything from the dollar store and thrift stores. The most expensive thing we got was the bald cap at a Halloween store for 10.00 (ouch!). We made the hair with spider webbing and red spraypaint. His costume came in total to about 20.00. And most of that was the cap. Anyhow. After the whole night was over Luhvah realized he forgot his red nose! Oh NOES! It would have been so much better with it (we bought it but he forgot to put it on in the chaos of the night). Here are the results: <br />
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I edited to show a red nose. Look how much better it woulda been!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jKXVG_mQX1PkbnCcky8ZHjJ2A_gfSdeg_wGN4p6XG13Qv8blcibQFZynGTU5nRX0BCfV7QooX9QhKLw0_ZHCPtXexrUENDlJpf8JOOr1OU0jqb8Q65iNW8PLQDFzJyov0IIfTB08l1g/s1600/MATT+CLOSE+-nose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jKXVG_mQX1PkbnCcky8ZHjJ2A_gfSdeg_wGN4p6XG13Qv8blcibQFZynGTU5nRX0BCfV7QooX9QhKLw0_ZHCPtXexrUENDlJpf8JOOr1OU0jqb8Q65iNW8PLQDFzJyov0IIfTB08l1g/s400/MATT+CLOSE+-nose.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I decided to scare it up a bit myself by painting my face. Also, I made a skeleton shirt copying one I found on Pinterest (what the heck did I ever do before pinterest?). Total was only 1.50 for the shirt to rip up (bought at thrift store).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4MBWdmjklPe8sP8NWpascxe1VrsF5WMC7U_lHjaOwxSSIDkcTqoJPok_V2io2hUWt_0MMw8P0e7v5AVs4hu6wfnzZ7RMjJBO1TZAn3H6xtrAuVq_a6wiET7WrXeEOA_Z_qrbbamSa5I/s1600/KIM+SKULL+FACE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4MBWdmjklPe8sP8NWpascxe1VrsF5WMC7U_lHjaOwxSSIDkcTqoJPok_V2io2hUWt_0MMw8P0e7v5AVs4hu6wfnzZ7RMjJBO1TZAn3H6xtrAuVq_a6wiET7WrXeEOA_Z_qrbbamSa5I/s400/KIM+SKULL+FACE.jpg" width="300" /></a> <br />
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What does it say that I no longer take pictures of my daughter in her costume for Halloween? That she's a teenager, that's what it says. She's too busy running out the door with her friends for me to grab a pic and by the time I remember she's long gone!<br />
This year she was Katniss Everdeen (Hunger Games). Easy and cheap. I only had to buy her a jacket (thrift store-7.00). She had everything else (including bow/arrow).<br />
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Water balloons with glow stick inside hanging in a stocking. I only spent 4.50 on this project so luckily it wasn't a lot out of pocket. But the glow sticks weren't bright enough to see through the balloon (which were white). Maybe I need clear balloons-and more glow sticks in 'em. I still like the idea. Maybe I'll play with it next year. </div>
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Hope you had a Happy Halloween- I'm off to eat some candy!</div>
She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-5398830831492923462012-11-01T08:26:00.000-05:002012-11-01T08:26:03.820-05:00Breast Cancer Awareness-Winner!!!!We won! If ya don't know, we had a contest at work for <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/breast-cancer-awareness.html">decorating a pumpkin</a> for Breast Cancer Awareness month. <br />
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Our lovely lady won the contest! What did we win? A pizza party for the whole dept. Which, of course, all the guys will love up here. <br />
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Now, time for my acceptance speech. ::::clearing throat:::: <em>Ahem</em>,<br />
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"Thank you, Thank you. I would first like to say that this is not something that I could do on my own <strike>(oh yes I could</strike>). Many, many people contributed to the success of our hooker cop. I'd like to thank my wonderful friend Rachael, without which I could not have come up with such a great idea (heck, half the idea was hers peeps!). And my husband, who <strike>mostly</strike> always supports my cocamamie decisions even when they are <strike>insane</strike> a little out there. My boss, who did not dissuade us when we set her up at the front desk for all to see as they came into the station. And last, but certainly not least, our Chief of Police for not having a heart attack when he laid eyes on his "new employee" (Chief can be quite, ahem,<em> conservative </em>and a bit taciturn so the number one question each and every officer asked when they saw the pumpkin cop was, "Has Chief seen it yet?!!!"). But really, <strike>little people</strike> my lovelies, it was a pleasure just being nominated <strike>(no it wasn't, I was in it to win it!)</strike>. I mean,<em> you like me, you<strong> really</strong> like me!"</em><br />
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I promise this win will not go to my head. I am still the down-to-earth loveable (sorta) person I was yesterday. Now, excuse me while I go call my entourage. I need someone to pour me another drink.<br />
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-75892651122024971792012-10-25T19:28:00.001-05:002012-10-25T19:42:25.236-05:00Birthday Care package!October is my birthday month and I love nothing better than getting a bunch of presents and attention! (What can I say? I'm a materialistic attentionwhore.)<br />
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After a hard days work it was an awesome surprise to come home to a great big box from my best friend who lives a bajillion miles away in Hawaii. Which totally blows but I guess she's living it up Hawaiian style so she sent me a little piece of her homeland.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysciqhD8gX9nhHZNcJtMX_FxB_kChCOJbt6LYsLBH1KxvKrfAgh6K5WFAGAitHu8MUXrwEovP5ortLItZ_U01nKRjHE6ZTmUIJBNxqGSdGIlThCSNi4yp-CgFh-tqPir5c6Y9O_S5-Qc/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysciqhD8gX9nhHZNcJtMX_FxB_kChCOJbt6LYsLBH1KxvKrfAgh6K5WFAGAitHu8MUXrwEovP5ortLItZ_U01nKRjHE6ZTmUIJBNxqGSdGIlThCSNi4yp-CgFh-tqPir5c6Y9O_S5-Qc/s400/IMG_1989.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
First, i love a bunch of individual presents to open. Feels sooo special to find out whats in each and every package. She had them all wrapped with little notes attached.I can't tell you how fun it was to open them all and read the responding note. <br />
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The first present I opened was a beautiful headband made out of swarovski jewels---soooo pretty. I forgot to take a pic of it but I plan to wear it soon so I'll take a pic when I do! <br />
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Then I opened these additional presents:<br />
Home fragrance from a spa she works for-this stuff smells heavenly. Like, <em>omgoshsoooogood</em>. I won't use it until after the holidays but it will be the perfect spring smell to make my whole house smell divinely expensive and beautiful:<br />
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The note she attached with this present below says, "Ask me about this next time we talk!":<br />
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I love it! I am blogging before I've even talked to her so I don't even know the backstory to tell you. LOL<br />
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These were a deck of cards...but of course I just had to get the attractive pic out there...How's about 52 copies of him? Le sigh:<br />
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Like my fat arse needs chocolate macadamia anything. But yum!!!!<br />
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I love this next gift...I don't even think she knows how much I have a thing for lil' turtles! <em>Love</em>. This is why my BFF's nickname is Kindred. We are Kindred Spirits-she gave me a turtle without even knowing I'm crazy about 'em. Kindred says they are called Honu's (turtles) and so his name will be Honu (oh and you can kinda see the headband she got behind him!) Plus, another cool thing-he glows in the dark!:<br />
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Some pretty nail art:<br />
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Last gift is a set of smelly goods from her spa--awesome stuff. All of it smells great! </div>
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My favorite note was attached to this one. It pretty much is the epitamy of how we are with each other:<br />
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I tell you this note almost made me tear up --I miss her sooooo much!!!!! How can a note like that make me teary-eyed? LOL. MISS YOU KINDRED! <br />
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She's an awesome friend and I hate that she's soooo far away. I loved all my presents and can't wait to use them all! <br />
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Happy Birthday to me!!!<br />
<br />She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-55799299222354002282012-10-23T11:42:00.000-05:002012-10-25T18:37:16.914-05:00Breast Cancer awarenessThis month is Breast Cancer Awareness month and every Friday has been dedicated to wearing pink to celebrate (celebrate...is that the right term? Seems wrong). Anyhow. <br />
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Our admin asst. came to us and said they are having a contest to see which department can decorate a pumpkin the best for the event. They even gave us a "starter" kit with a pumpkin, some beads, glitter, glue, stickers, paint, etc. Here is what we came up with:<br />
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She's our police lady fighting for a cure. Of course, Luhvah and my friend's significant other says she looks like a hooker police cop (or sexy police woman). She's still cute. Of course, we couldn't keep with the "starter" kit and had to go buy more stuff (25.00 worth of crap. OUCH!) But it was fun. <br />
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Here is Rach with our lady friend. We really need a name for her. I'm thinking Bond Girl names---Officer Pinkchest? <br />
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I heard they are having prizes but I have no idea what they'll be. Cross our fingers we win!<br />
She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-19207201285049939542012-10-23T10:41:00.003-05:002012-10-23T10:41:51.363-05:00Halloween mantle-2012Halloween is right around the corner. October always seems to go by so quickly I never have enough time (probably because it's fall and I want to savour every last moment of everything autumn...so it rushes by too fast for me). <br />
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I had my fall mantle up a few weeks back:<br />
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But as I <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/fall-mantle-2012.html">already said</a>, I wasn't fully pleased with the results. <br />
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I told you I would get back with you on how I played with it. And I didn't. But I did play a little and left it all together dissatisfied again (first world problems, I know!). <br />
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Not really better. But then I left that a week and decided to come back and revamp for Halloween. <br />
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I went to the dollar store and bough the 3 birds and the netting/cloth. Everything else I already owner from previous years. The picture is something I pinned from pinterest:<br />
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I love it for some reason (prob the black cat!) I distressed it with paint to give it an aged feel. <br />
I also pinned this:<br />
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I replicated it by filling some dirt and glitter in a jar and making the distressed label:<br />
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Quick tutorial on how I "distress" this:<br />
1) Print out in whatever font you prefer for the size you need. Tear off of paper for size. (more haphazard the better)<br />
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2) Take acryllic paint in brownish color and dilute greatly with water. (Note: people stain/distress/discolor things easily all the time with tea or coffee. But I wasn't gonna brew any just for these small projects)<br />
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3) Paint quickly on your paper and wipe away: <br />
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4). Burn edges. The best way I've found is using my burner on the stove. It gets the look I want better than using a cig lighter or match (which just burns the paper down rather than smoking the edges):</div>
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I adhered the label to the bottle with tape. Easy peasy. </div>
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So far, these are the only Halloween decorations I have up! Oh noes! I meant to do more on the outside but I was pretty busy this weekend and didn't get a chance. </div>
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I did a spooky look on my picture which makes it look pretty cool:</div>
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I will post more Halloween decor hopefully this weekend!</div>
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4472269165273526201.post-24363828024711358912012-10-16T11:48:00.000-05:002012-10-17T09:02:28.536-05:00Kitchen cabinet revealSo, remember 2 and a half months ago when I blogged about my kitchen cabinets almost being done? Yeah, they've been done for a while but I've been too lazy to take pics. Which is awful cuz I'm soooo outrageously proud of how they turned out. <br />
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I've got a smorgasborg of pictures to show. And FYI peeps-these are all taken with my iphone as I am still without a new camera (RIP). Forgive the quality. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEime26SDUyX1vpJAb6NthFvunyiSPlYXnZpOOPQX8JdZUUk_UGz3RXpwROx7PaYla8BtA2fzndZ3aD-UR7lkqiJ500gBFhK46w4N1Py8dFIsvlnn_4ydppyfFHzBsRdlL_a585yyo69-fc/s1600/FINISHED-RIGHT+SIDE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEime26SDUyX1vpJAb6NthFvunyiSPlYXnZpOOPQX8JdZUUk_UGz3RXpwROx7PaYla8BtA2fzndZ3aD-UR7lkqiJ500gBFhK46w4N1Py8dFIsvlnn_4ydppyfFHzBsRdlL_a585yyo69-fc/s400/FINISHED-RIGHT+SIDE.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiYHr-6BM1Tu-styIFHjLwTejYFW_TTqusZWucnqPy1AyObpNm30W2HcxpaUwvbqUtgaMJKSQrCsgIFcoLvnXvZLOzazkkikVT3gU_xJj24kjt8U_jg6nK0TS9w6KrApnLQAO9ApJrGA/s1600/FINISHED+LEFT+SIDE+FULL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiYHr-6BM1Tu-styIFHjLwTejYFW_TTqusZWucnqPy1AyObpNm30W2HcxpaUwvbqUtgaMJKSQrCsgIFcoLvnXvZLOzazkkikVT3gU_xJj24kjt8U_jg6nK0TS9w6KrApnLQAO9ApJrGA/s400/FINISHED+LEFT+SIDE+FULL.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I am head over heels in love with the way they look. I think it brings so much more of a sophistication to my kitchen and, since I couldn't monetarily upgrade anything this really helped make this room more welcoming to us. Let me point out though that I don't know what peoples obsession is with cream in this house. I mean, is it a builder's thing? Is cream just cheaper than white? I have had to paint every God forsaken peice of trim in my house (including those lovely pantry doors above) a crisp white from that awful cream. And they continued it with the microwave and fridge. Off-white. UGH. It.looks.dirty.people. I refer to this cream color as "smoker's yellow". Since it looks like something that <em>might have been</em> white but a smoker has lived in the house forever and turned everything yellow. Anyhow. I'm stuck with the cream fridge/microwave which really throws off my vibe but whatevs. We'll upgrade when we can. Luhvah wanted to gut everything and has hated the kitchen since we moved in (especially the laminate counters). But since painting I think Luhvah has accepted it a little more. <br />
Remember before the Honey Oak color:<br />
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Okay, awful pic but I couldn't find another (forgot to take before pics like a bozo!). And yes, my house is a mess. Whatevs. </div>
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Anyhow. The after is much better:</div>
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Like I said, brings a whole level of sophistication to my kitchen that it lacked before. And the knobs and pull helped too:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiawSagf39SyKE_P1Ut4kbiC7btWO5JkurusjogIETCqq6x72SW8sPbkB6akA-vdgW5Y48Y0z-j1hs97iNzkgjKHsgpFVzu0LrmmPhHtDOVwk-0wlyWWqYg2L95weQMD9Y5ygE2BD4U7zg/s1600/FINISHED+CABINET+PULLS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiawSagf39SyKE_P1Ut4kbiC7btWO5JkurusjogIETCqq6x72SW8sPbkB6akA-vdgW5Y48Y0z-j1hs97iNzkgjKHsgpFVzu0LrmmPhHtDOVwk-0wlyWWqYg2L95weQMD9Y5ygE2BD4U7zg/s400/FINISHED+CABINET+PULLS.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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The kitchen cabinets were bare when we moved in and just adding hardware I felt it helped them so much. I've vowed to never go nekkid again (at least in the kitchen hardware department). </div>
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When I painted I decided I wanted to try an open shelving area to make it more interesting. After deciding where I wanted the open shelf I just took down the cabinet door that was on it (I couldn't possibly do <em><strong>all </strong></em>open shelves cuz 1) all my dishes aren't that pretty and 2) I keep a hell o' a mess behind those closed doors!) I painted the inside all black as well. Peeps, this is how lazy I am...I didn't even fill in the holes where the hardware went. <strike>Ssssshhhh don't tell.</strike> You don't even notice unless you're studying real hard. And if you are then you'll find plenty wrong with my house so <em>git out! </em></div>
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I had all the dishes already to make it pretty. No need to buy anything. </div>
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Everywhere else I left the insides the original color:</div>
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While we're talking kitchen let me also point out that I would have loved to add white beadboard (even beadboard wallpaper) below the cabinets as a backsplash but I was going cheap so I didn't do it. I didn't mind the backsplash that was put up by the previous owners but they only put it on one side. </div>
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Weird. </div>
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And now it looks to dark and not at all what I want anyway for the kitchen. Maybe down the road I'll get that beadboard wallpaper and do both sides.</div>
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More shots of prettiness:</div>
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Also, let me point out the new wall color:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1XKfvAlh3qajqMnfTVXXW_nTp_rVcn16VJiX7HhiorSCwp-q54mR5GEah9ljBGEB_yy80d1YMLLgqoe5n3YTzE-PRFXoMFgKDKBK93-MmVsaUM8lutw7oUUBYvQEnzXdlIjqtSu9tY8/s1600/FINISHED+RIGHT+SIDE+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1XKfvAlh3qajqMnfTVXXW_nTp_rVcn16VJiX7HhiorSCwp-q54mR5GEah9ljBGEB_yy80d1YMLLgqoe5n3YTzE-PRFXoMFgKDKBK93-MmVsaUM8lutw7oUUBYvQEnzXdlIjqtSu9tY8/s400/FINISHED+RIGHT+SIDE+4.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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It's Revere Pewter color matched to Behr paint/primer. I<em> love</em> it. I'll be showing you more pics to come of the finished product in the whole house. (See, that's my excuse for delaying so long on posting the kitchen-been too busy painting our whole house!) Here's a picture of the color on the walls before with Monkey helping (Revere Pewter is the color in the lower left corner you can barely see):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92qiciSTmLfFvFZRRnB3h6tPnGOZUrqILgSXJh95YBUWOz0Qv0YJwH9oriPepA2hDGpK7QUwNJTVxU-1YjpXW484myem-d7eWY7NvsHuYzR82JjTkrOjHh_StxEyhsvRYh27T6LzN5qA/s1600/MID-KITCHEN+WITH+ABBY.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92qiciSTmLfFvFZRRnB3h6tPnGOZUrqILgSXJh95YBUWOz0Qv0YJwH9oriPepA2hDGpK7QUwNJTVxU-1YjpXW484myem-d7eWY7NvsHuYzR82JjTkrOjHh_StxEyhsvRYh27T6LzN5qA/s400/MID-KITCHEN+WITH+ABBY.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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So, there it is. Finally done. And to keep it real- here was the other side with my sink: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGUGZGIJDZoRh_0vRs-HJJ6sZD55VXBXmYqgV-FoRZumZ_b0mJc6_iG2fM0St3NzCC3iRbeKt8Mlfq8yCVymQMnF_O4m3K3C7FYQmdXhEuLggTHWhO-AL9qhPJdEhFYV1gd-udRXD43g/s1600/FINISHED+DIRTY+DISHES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGUGZGIJDZoRh_0vRs-HJJ6sZD55VXBXmYqgV-FoRZumZ_b0mJc6_iG2fM0St3NzCC3iRbeKt8Mlfq8yCVymQMnF_O4m3K3C7FYQmdXhEuLggTHWhO-AL9qhPJdEhFYV1gd-udRXD43g/s400/FINISHED+DIRTY+DISHES.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Look, even though I have dirty dishes in the sink and on the counter all I can stare at is the pretty cabinets and hardware (<strong>and so should you</strong>!). Le sigh. It was tedious work but I am sooooo glad I did it (and I can't believe it took me this long to do after 7 years at this place-I've been wanting to paint them since we moved in!)</div>
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Here's the breakdown of what I did monetarily and physically:</div>
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1) Primer -Before primer I didn't bother sanding or anything (unless it was super rough). I just slapped primer down after cleaning very well with soap and water (and magic cleaner for really tough grease areas). I already had a quart which I barely used for <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/before-after-front-door-makeover.html">my front door project</a> so I finished that off but it wasn't enough so Luhvah went and got a gallon. We could've easily gone with another quart though and been fine. I did 2 coats of primer (1 Gallon-25.00? I <em>think</em>)<em> </em></div>
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<em>*****EDIT: I found the primer I use online by chance and wanted to share. In fact the blog that talked about it had some interesting points about not having to sand (YAY!) with this primer. You can read about it <a href="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/karlascottage/2011/08/painting-furniture-with-no-sanding-some-short-cut-tips.html">here.</a> Here's the primer I used.</em></div>
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<a href="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83451ead569e2015434936586970c-500wi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" nea="true" src="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83451ead569e2015434936586970c-500wi" width="272" /></a></div>
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2) Paint- after primer I went straight to the paint. FYI peeps- I didn't sand really at all. I know this is a huge step in painting cabinets--sand, sand, sand between each step! But I just didn't have the patience. I got Gripper paint from Glidden I believe (I have to look and report later). I just hope that helped with the many coats of paint and the sealer. </div>
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Anyhow. </div>
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On to paint- I did basic black (Onyx I think from Behr? Maybe Glidden? I totally suck at these breakdowns). I had to do 3 coats of the black paint to get good even coverage and I used a foam roller to cover. (1 Gallon- 30.00)</div>
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3) Poly sealer- I used a Polyuethane sealant on the cabinets and did 2 quick coats on them with a quart of poly I had already for my <a href="http://andthenshesaidblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/stairs-reveal.html">stairs project.</a> (15.00/quart- but I already had it)</div>
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4)Hardware- The pulls were from Overstock and were 18.00 for 10 of them. The knobs were from ebay and were 25.00 for 20. </div>
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I'm not counting the wall color because really it was put all over the house so it goes into the budget from that other project. </div>
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In total I spent 98.00 (if you don't count the poly I already had or the wall color). I think that's an amazing number considering how much of a change it made in my kitchen. $98.00!!!! That's it. Wish I'd done it sooner. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdn-aglMwrIHCTSbd_H__EE41u13Z1N04JBRboAy0peH8tbDMexq8qWS7ZrcC-vzO0fo61odwfk3gfNNcAg2jOgI640s0NMSecRNxEzwZTAQArftwU1v15WNZkwZbHgqScCDTqQYtCfQ/s1600/FINISHED+RIGHT+SIDE+FULL+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdn-aglMwrIHCTSbd_H__EE41u13Z1N04JBRboAy0peH8tbDMexq8qWS7ZrcC-vzO0fo61odwfk3gfNNcAg2jOgI640s0NMSecRNxEzwZTAQArftwU1v15WNZkwZbHgqScCDTqQYtCfQ/s400/FINISHED+RIGHT+SIDE+FULL+3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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She said.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10442315393429501307noreply@blogger.com2