tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57025848348999655512024-03-20T18:31:15.732-05:00Ballyvaughn MavenJust Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-569895795495234882011-11-28T22:52:00.001-06:002011-11-28T22:52:16.800-06:00Stationery card<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidget" style="width:425px; height:494px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif);"></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter" style="height:482px; padding: 0 6px 0 6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); background-repeat:repeat-y;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewLogo" style="width: 105px; height: 34px; padding: 14px 0 0 14px;"><img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif" style="padding: 0; background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none;"></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewContainer" style="height:350px; text-align:center; padding: 0;"><a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=1AYuGTJy5YtHMg&cid=SFLYOCWIDGET&eid=115"><img src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/1AYuGTJy5YtG/1AYuGTJy5YtGc0/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1322542331000/0/" style="padding: 0; background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none;"></a></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer" style="height:55px; background-color:#f4f4e9; text-align:center; padding: 15px 0 15px 0; line-height: 19px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewTitle" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 15px; color: #333333; font-weight: bold;"><span>Newsworthy Girl Birth Announcement</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewSEOText" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>Shutterfly has cute birth announcements and <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/valentines-day-cards-and-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">Valentine's cards</a>.</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>View the entire <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">collection</a> of cards.</span></div><img width="1" height="1" border="0" style="padding: 0; background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none;" src="https://os.shutterfly.com/b/ss/sflyshareprod/1/H.15/111?pageName=sharekey&c1=msc&c2=blogger" /></div></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetBottom" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bottom.gif);"></div></div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-63184227824287874722010-10-17T14:54:00.002-05:002010-10-17T15:14:00.329-05:00Fall = Dutch Apple Pie and Caramel SauceThis week is my husband's birthday. I asked him what he wanted for a birthday cake. After pondering this question for a few hours he landed on Apple Pie-- my how our taste buds change as we age... last year he wanted a McDonald's Cake.
I love a good dutch apple pie. I love the topping and pie crust-- it's like the best of apple pie and apple crisp all in one dessert. My aunt shared a secret to a great apple pie when I was a teenager. She told me she cuts her apples and prepares the filling (with lemon juice so they don't turn brown) the day before she bakes the pie. It really lets all the flavors come together. I try to marinate the apples overnight if I have time.
Last night I was putting the apples together... side note: if you don't have an apple peeler/corer you have to get one. It's an amazing invention and saves hours of peeling. It also helps us perfectionists get exactly the apple cut the same thickness. I sell them with Pampered Chef, but before I was a consultant I had a Cuisinart one and the suctioned bottom wouldn't stay in place all the time.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjd4y3ZXramvNnqZOi2oQBc-1OGUqcv1NbTYMshfyXoxdgSTOLZECodNjSe5sX_ICYX0ueQ9rXV1C1tk-fqUpImTcOnl9giR2jbTNBDNsJ2H0GZZCi2398GDnrN0f9uwEbZgSjUuVFHw/s1600/dutch+apple.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjd4y3ZXramvNnqZOi2oQBc-1OGUqcv1NbTYMshfyXoxdgSTOLZECodNjSe5sX_ICYX0ueQ9rXV1C1tk-fqUpImTcOnl9giR2jbTNBDNsJ2H0GZZCi2398GDnrN0f9uwEbZgSjUuVFHw/s320/dutch+apple.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529106648997542338" border="0" /></a>
Well this is what I made today. Sorry, it's not my photo, I was too lazy to take pictures and the kitchen is a disaster area. We're having the cabinets painted!!!
Well back to the story about marinading the apples. When you fill the pie with the apples you notice there is a TON of juice left in the bottom of the bowl. I wanted to use the reserved liquid and quickly thought about a caramel sauce. I scoured the Internet for a recipe I could use to make caramel sauce with the liquid. I think I searched apple caramel sauce... I found something at the Better Homes and Gardens Website.
Caramel Sauce
<div id="detailcol"> <div id="ingredients"> <h4>Ingredients</h4> <ul><li class="bg1"> <strong>2/3</strong> cup packed brown sugar</li><li class="bg2"> <strong>1</strong> tablespoon cornstarch</li><li class="bg1"> <strong>1/4</strong> cup apple cider or apple juice (marinade from apples)
</li><li class="bg2"> <strong>1/4</strong> cup butter</li><li class="bg1"> <strong>1</strong> egg yolk</li></ul></div> <div id="instructions"> <h4>Directions</h4> <p><b>1.</b> For the Caramel Sauce, in a small saucepan combine the brown sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Add 1/4 cup apple cider or apple juice and butter. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 2 minutes more. Remove from heat. In a small bowl beat 1 egg yolk; gradually stir in 1/2 cup of the hot brown sugar mixture. Add the egg mixture to the saucepan. Cook and stir until bubbly; reduce heat. Cook and stir for 2 minutes more. Remove from heat; cover and cool. Use 1/2 cup of the Caramel Sauce for the Caramel Cream Filling. If necessary, thin the remaining Caramel Sauce with 1 to 2 teaspoons apple cider or apple juice to make a topping of drizzling consistency. Makes 3/4 cup. </p> <p><b>2.</b> For Caramel Cream Filling, in a bowl beat 1, 8-ounce cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in 1/2 cup of the Caramel Sauce. </p> </div> </div>
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNF6NOLHGLF79dF6_grZEQPxx6hn_90-gBj0VW9qOn1s7HthihbyGlyNKG1N7_CzRhLrInxfZot1VLyXBV9PnuVq-B9ddPy5za-QEK6tskqLvMkpvMcpbyJvh-Rsk_19vgiYdjMQpg70/s1600/caramel+sauce.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 192px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNF6NOLHGLF79dF6_grZEQPxx6hn_90-gBj0VW9qOn1s7HthihbyGlyNKG1N7_CzRhLrInxfZot1VLyXBV9PnuVq-B9ddPy5za-QEK6tskqLvMkpvMcpbyJvh-Rsk_19vgiYdjMQpg70/s320/caramel+sauce.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529106561936547138" border="0" /></a>
Did you notice the caramel cream filling... <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">OHHHH</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">YUMMMM</span>!!! I'm gonna have to think of how I can use caramel cream somewhere. I was thinking on pumpkin bars, spice cake or even a chocolate layer cake? Maybe in between 2 oatmeal cookies?? I'm getting a little carried away.
I was happy to find a recipe where I could use the reserved liquid from the apples- waste not, want not.
Now on to eating the PIE... with caramel drizzled on top :)Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-70143382805890856962010-09-21T21:17:00.003-05:002010-09-21T21:24:17.878-05:00Fall FloralI was at Hobby Lobby last weekend and found this gorgeous pot. Then I quickly realized that I had nothing to put in it. I thought about a house plant, but I think I might kill it. I have 2 in my office and with as much time as I spend there you would think I could water them... well I forget and someone without fail asks if they can water it for me. Oh well, I think the fake ones are just fine!
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0k38nayGs7R3CsmmHrXQ5RBba6H0_D8gvFSmnxEjDCKdw4xUCta0vOinJgP8vat3ayfIzeEk11vTegA1g1QUCLzEAf_ARVXGwPuL9wGzXapXNaMsLSqCnTSkDkuiyGYm9yZRkd9bYLe8/s1600/072.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0k38nayGs7R3CsmmHrXQ5RBba6H0_D8gvFSmnxEjDCKdw4xUCta0vOinJgP8vat3ayfIzeEk11vTegA1g1QUCLzEAf_ARVXGwPuL9wGzXapXNaMsLSqCnTSkDkuiyGYm9yZRkd9bYLe8/s320/072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519556752394529506" border="0" /></a>Of course I got everything for 50% off. One of the stems that is kind of blue berries out the left side was only $1.36. I made this entire arrangement with the pot and filling for $25. Oh, here's a tip: don't buy floral green blocks (I don't know the correct name because I never buy them). I use left over styrofoam from packaging.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wMKzOrJbQDJiyUl0874GNbDTHdLwOmwRd_H4PCRq8fXK0spXy3TpRnbAPIirOWhgxDkzqJz14Mqh4Oy0VNnzrosP-aNQd09NEx02tUBfzlUSnOuql85iCgVHLfrlyUyvCsYxGDvmB9Y/s1600/071.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wMKzOrJbQDJiyUl0874GNbDTHdLwOmwRd_H4PCRq8fXK0spXy3TpRnbAPIirOWhgxDkzqJz14Mqh4Oy0VNnzrosP-aNQd09NEx02tUBfzlUSnOuql85iCgVHLfrlyUyvCsYxGDvmB9Y/s320/071.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519556485078198354" border="0" /></a>I just love having a pretty arrangement to look at as I lay on the couch!Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-83295602552693401182010-09-21T21:03:00.004-05:002010-09-21T21:14:18.311-05:00Fall EntranceThis fall I'm going to finish the kitchen so I'm trying to be as thrifty as possible with my projects. I had this plant stand from a 75% off sale at Hobby Lobby for $5.00. I painted it brown to blend in with the brick.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BULfEmNETy1sYEHLP0SQebPfIMY2w27hA3WT_AB8BuXgupJVbfUtHYVDIMWu35Q8vLmU-tzUSVvyi-B3zBQI-GmyaqFKtfjDC5ckwk5xnNWHrxPGDY2g7ahyphenhyphenHwKpJ5zVhYUHwmr0LVc/s1600/066.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BULfEmNETy1sYEHLP0SQebPfIMY2w27hA3WT_AB8BuXgupJVbfUtHYVDIMWu35Q8vLmU-tzUSVvyi-B3zBQI-GmyaqFKtfjDC5ckwk5xnNWHrxPGDY2g7ahyphenhyphenHwKpJ5zVhYUHwmr0LVc/s320/066.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519554073328428898" border="0" /></a>I decided to put the mum in something and all I could find for a few dollars was a silver bucket. I decided to keep it silver, but I wanted to put something fall themed on it. Believe it or not this is a logo from a picture frame I bought. I changed the words inside the logo to make it fit for fall, but I just loved the logo and knew I would find a way to use it someday.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqynsklAaZs5rRfbo7u4bb33M4w_hr3ZZBXgIcMYjvzf76pgxMbjY9aryQfCmKnkah3SeUrjjjuhd-T-FJw-e2T9aICDtaMoqqpYgvwpp5O0_HgGC8VSwQucjQMKDghzuRCwk852f8ic/s1600/068.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqynsklAaZs5rRfbo7u4bb33M4w_hr3ZZBXgIcMYjvzf76pgxMbjY9aryQfCmKnkah3SeUrjjjuhd-T-FJw-e2T9aICDtaMoqqpYgvwpp5O0_HgGC8VSwQucjQMKDghzuRCwk852f8ic/s320/068.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519553762458304754" border="0" /></a>
I free handed the logo on the bucket with a black paint pen. Who knows what color this bucket could be next?
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_W3j3WH-ir12jfdqkcicOoItCVWD2zlCGh8jGAjpniTMuhakaODIu16VmkWM_7fkr21expWdr8mnbB-WKdY5Wm6iTKsMctPZFKqREeVYN6_g4EMrUnJiHkwNJrYFFcjNQZ3E1CRpgS8/s1600/067.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_W3j3WH-ir12jfdqkcicOoItCVWD2zlCGh8jGAjpniTMuhakaODIu16VmkWM_7fkr21expWdr8mnbB-WKdY5Wm6iTKsMctPZFKqREeVYN6_g4EMrUnJiHkwNJrYFFcjNQZ3E1CRpgS8/s320/067.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519553408228078578" border="0" /></a>
I just found some pumpkins to put around the bottom. Happy fall!Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-91830429708421793862010-09-19T15:23:00.011-05:002010-09-21T20:58:47.608-05:00Coffee Table to Upholstered OttomanThis is another GREAT find at the local thrift store. I found this table around the fourth of July. The special at the thrift store was to pick a star and on the back there was a discount for your entire order. Well I just so happened to pick a 30% off coupon. This table was a whopping $25, so I got it for just over $18 with tax. It had been loved. When I was sanding I found some crayon marks. I'm sure my mom's tables were loved the same way.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMdDDpQ0aav7e_L38kMujhPquLY8R2cJvE8e9ms69rgKe89DiIjONNjvjtRRG7wSUn-xpiyqT8Iup8XoeVnXxksgM9klFyZGj6_gOif1RFa6jL2J0jYFBxxkmJXFwdf6vR9tNcJ0M0QQ/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMdDDpQ0aav7e_L38kMujhPquLY8R2cJvE8e9ms69rgKe89DiIjONNjvjtRRG7wSUn-xpiyqT8Iup8XoeVnXxksgM9klFyZGj6_gOif1RFa6jL2J0jYFBxxkmJXFwdf6vR9tNcJ0M0QQ/s320/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519547451319103682" border="0" /></a>
I sanded the top and legs. My original thought was just paint it black and leave it as a coffee table.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfV3EXKMPduLSI4UESmBj_q9DdPrkR_axwsOisBTjc7Egnc7p3KsJNNOdydbwfGO2Q22iPYflPFdaTjXIDHHv4_tbm8U5MOchb8YLCHDGiBND3stpYGaIFZLlFPsl62kq5Oy8bPgz4a0U/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfV3EXKMPduLSI4UESmBj_q9DdPrkR_axwsOisBTjc7Egnc7p3KsJNNOdydbwfGO2Q22iPYflPFdaTjXIDHHv4_tbm8U5MOchb8YLCHDGiBND3stpYGaIFZLlFPsl62kq5Oy8bPgz4a0U/s320/008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519546967487325538" border="0" /></a>Then one night when we were watching a movie in the family room I got the idea that I should make it a big ottoman. Yes, an idea during a movie. I watch movies with him sometimes and sometimes I pretend to watch them just to spend time together. Now I had to figure out how to do it. This is what I came up with and the questions I asked myself:
<ul><li>What color: people are going to put their feet on this, it can't be cream or white... I found the same fabric I made my pillows out of for $6.99/ yard at Hobby Lobby. It was 3 years later and I didn't think I would be lucky and find the same fabric again.
</li><li>How padded should it be? The upholstering padding is super expensive-- $39/ yard. No way!! I'm using mattress pads from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Walmart</span> and my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">MIL's</span> basement.</li><li>How was I going to attach it? Luckily the coffee table has a small lip on the edges and I was able to staple underneath and hid the staples.</li><li>I didn't want it to look like a big pillow, so how can I make it tufted? This was a great time... my husband got frustrated and thank goodness my BIL was over. He helped me find just the right length of screw and attach it to the table through the fabric. It was a sight. I was holding the fabric and padding down so it wouldn't tear while he was drilling.
</li><li>What type of buttons should I use for tufting? I found the type you can customize with your own fabric. I think this was the only full price item I purchased at $4/ pack of three.</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEz2y6zoUjCfMNvhEC3ssbRyW_4WwVQxV8wPwhzWbcKeeZSZMjaz3uSGKFxizmE7CaVl1-7XHi7yGG2srAcfGLRS9baYWSiytZtvKr-RnObh2xREBDyPl_wrnLfIAazdeihdsI6pwGz8/s1600/049.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEz2y6zoUjCfMNvhEC3ssbRyW_4WwVQxV8wPwhzWbcKeeZSZMjaz3uSGKFxizmE7CaVl1-7XHi7yGG2srAcfGLRS9baYWSiytZtvKr-RnObh2xREBDyPl_wrnLfIAazdeihdsI6pwGz8/s320/049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518724609533815074" border="0" /></a>
You can see here where I stapled around the bottom...
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1sDzQ7czHJWtDQW23YqpV5syvzDoufHYcgaM6pHjdEniSdp2pfzBg-yema7laJQ7Fl0DLi4-RJxggg4rn3r7vx92357DcvRJbiYK0Rmun-Cq-yRajY5wwdpNY0akqwlSSCqCDs2wkBM/s1600/053.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1sDzQ7czHJWtDQW23YqpV5syvzDoufHYcgaM6pHjdEniSdp2pfzBg-yema7laJQ7Fl0DLi4-RJxggg4rn3r7vx92357DcvRJbiYK0Rmun-Cq-yRajY5wwdpNY0akqwlSSCqCDs2wkBM/s320/053.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518724211909220578" border="0" /></a>
The biggest question after I tufted the ottoman was how to attach the buttons.. this picture doesn't show the tufting yet. You'll never guess what I used to attach the button to the screw. BREAD TIES!! I can't believe I make fun of my husband for keeping them, but one Sunday afternoon they came to the rescue when I was desperate to finish this project.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-GcmFgssK3OVcTH9GPk82A6pi0IAw_Sc5fuaDOUOFPx8oYKEOAGSXiIkaj2MYyIumrgCmkYcUw5B51-6LsCRHdq4yC0UEP5JsnbyBEqMVjp0jt_8aRBgy90mqgX3GwgbdN8Ul78hW45U/s1600/058.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-GcmFgssK3OVcTH9GPk82A6pi0IAw_Sc5fuaDOUOFPx8oYKEOAGSXiIkaj2MYyIumrgCmkYcUw5B51-6LsCRHdq4yC0UEP5JsnbyBEqMVjp0jt_8aRBgy90mqgX3GwgbdN8Ul78hW45U/s320/058.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518723757947962530" border="0" /></a>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-39357961850939791572010-05-31T10:27:00.006-05:002010-05-31T10:46:56.717-05:00DIY DrapesI was originally going to make a slip cover for a chair with this fabric. I found it on a huge discount from Hancock Fabrics. Can I just say, I find the best deals there. The back of the store has remnant pieces. I can usually get 3-6 yard pieces for $3-$7/ yard. These lined drapes cost me only $42.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQCBMDJet-YIrameW1ITPTMXEXUbJwnOoZVYJfUgIIqzreasL_87M7Pj7chPNGTNgLxmDTpF9teRfqjha9asPh2538HZHnleGFHFKGbNGyjoGvk4OOMh_y0KRIi28biI7OJFXS_tMiR4/s1600/blog+update+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477457135827626386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQCBMDJet-YIrameW1ITPTMXEXUbJwnOoZVYJfUgIIqzreasL_87M7Pj7chPNGTNgLxmDTpF9teRfqjha9asPh2538HZHnleGFHFKGbNGyjoGvk4OOMh_y0KRIi28biI7OJFXS_tMiR4/s320/blog+update+004.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<div> The fabric was $4/ yard. The lining was $2/ yard at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Walmart</span>. The tabs were FREE. I bought some new black pillows and they were sold as a set wrapped in a ribbon. I sewed the ribbons behind the drapes to have a back tab style. You can find them from $50 -$90 per panel as a solid color. I calculate a savings of 50%-72% by making them myself.
</div><div></div>
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96IQM7n1g30-6JfMTQypAc0jKTCyZt3XlD5blKVqJZkc7ecEUReWM1QyGa_IGUxdcotWYSmoUI8MGYsq9RccSJ-VRLxxyseS2Thj7SnjRORBd9U6hmiCF3nO1ZMT47ku4OF6rBaOOLbU/s1600/blog+update+005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477456862236180706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96IQM7n1g30-6JfMTQypAc0jKTCyZt3XlD5blKVqJZkc7ecEUReWM1QyGa_IGUxdcotWYSmoUI8MGYsq9RccSJ-VRLxxyseS2Thj7SnjRORBd9U6hmiCF3nO1ZMT47ku4OF6rBaOOLbU/s320/blog+update+005.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div> </div><div>Don't worry you can't make drapes. I didn't have a pattern and just took it one step at a time.</div><div> </div><ol><li>Measure your window - take into account how high you want to hang your rod and how thick you want your bottom hem</li><li>Cut your fabric into two identical lengths. If you have patterned fabric, make sure the pattern is going the same direction.</li><li>Pin the lining inside the back of the fabric- this way you finish the edges of the curtains and line them at the same time. </li><li>Only sew the top and sides of the fabric. Allow the bottom to stay unfinished.</li><li>Hang the drapes on the rod and hem them to the exact height you want them from the floor. I think this is the easiest because I hate measuring. Seeing it exactly the want I want it confirms the last bit of sewing will be the last bit of sewing. I don't like resewing something to make it longer or shorter. </li><li>Hang the FINISHED drapes.
</li></ol><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ukw6yDtQBZgzg85nOipWL9wkAkdxVT88KC5MVPKYhywjQo2moY5sp8I_9VSH3qc60KKlK5iY44TIPdiQWn_a-466nIIu7q7nVahKQDkN9iHfeisnewA8Yt1w8DW82jclsXekEQSlCgY/s1600/blog+update+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477456620572669266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ukw6yDtQBZgzg85nOipWL9wkAkdxVT88KC5MVPKYhywjQo2moY5sp8I_9VSH3qc60KKlK5iY44TIPdiQWn_a-466nIIu7q7nVahKQDkN9iHfeisnewA8Yt1w8DW82jclsXekEQSlCgY/s320/blog+update+001.jpg" border="0" /></a> Did you notice this is the same fabric from the lampshade?
<div></div></div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-24915399183995131492010-05-31T10:15:00.006-05:002010-05-31T10:48:54.736-05:00A covered lampshadeDo you have some of these? Do you also have some scraps of fabric?
<a href="http://www.brownslampshades.com/shades/br-005301.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 350px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 241px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.brownslampshades.com/shades/br-005301.jpg" border="0" /></a>
Put them together and see what you get...
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbrFZQTqDQpvuJknKfqqpsQKJKhXpE-VijTMWeUI1s3IdISH6Njw6rD6fZn6cUMH-IZHXDFBDwTP9VJj_AJkwXSepOn4-H1jFUAWoX_N5B_K8Iq4AjAg-yMLwmhFSfEeUevgCM8Ts8pA/s1600/blog+update+033.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477453873769559426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbrFZQTqDQpvuJknKfqqpsQKJKhXpE-VijTMWeUI1s3IdISH6Njw6rD6fZn6cUMH-IZHXDFBDwTP9VJj_AJkwXSepOn4-H1jFUAWoX_N5B_K8Iq4AjAg-yMLwmhFSfEeUevgCM8Ts8pA/s320/blog+update+033.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<ol><li>Get your white lamp shade</li><li>Cut the fabric</li><li>Use iron-on hemming tape at the edges</li><li>Take a complementary color of bias tape and use the hemming tape again on the top and bottom edges</li><li>Don't worry about melting the lamp shade... I thought I ruined it a few times, but it just cools down again and molds back the way it was.</li></ol><p>
</p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8ehmwmjJJY-Wte-2IiGtwc2t_k9FNjcaQPmHpPz9W9-zvmIkO5DkfPYa2WGglb8FE276lY04t_a8EU38J_Y3RvIag7ZYmmzJM83muFEL-CVGEOMni0v0D2eW4GVOy5dMM7jdgr51-h4/s1600/blog+update+032.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477453653376403890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8ehmwmjJJY-Wte-2IiGtwc2t_k9FNjcaQPmHpPz9W9-zvmIkO5DkfPYa2WGglb8FE276lY04t_a8EU38J_Y3RvIag7ZYmmzJM83muFEL-CVGEOMni0v0D2eW4GVOy5dMM7jdgr51-h4/s320/blog+update+032.jpg" border="0" /></a>
Since this was my first shade I made a few mistakes... I forgot to put the original lamp shade seam in the back with the fabric seam. I also should have thought about how dark the fabric was - blocking the light much. I guess it gives the room more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ambiance</span>.
You'll see where the rest of this fabric is from in a minute...
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULhKinYafeW_jfdEgC8m5g78_cSh4QJkkqP2FmNXcJtVIacgrMNTJUahFmbiVdJolV3K-mAfmzlKgFyzgRDMsnZ0PVHNng8bwBY3uJk8CXAIM6yUYP3bmd9TTk89_CRrOM5M7biS3JMQ/s1600/blog+update+032.jpg"></a>
<div></div></div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-78288063950819221602010-05-31T09:52:00.008-05:002010-05-31T10:14:40.978-05:00Eating just got prettierI don't think I've introduced you to my new table... It's half stained and black. The cushions are cream like the old table. We bought 4 more to have a set of 8. We're excited for all of our summer guests.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZPaM0fAHsKODDKWJXnhs8yIGTV-xc38TnAbxr0ClHh5oPf6ftnVDQa7M9gy0V87gvwbvEmEM8NKc1CMblZX4CX2vujjeB6JG8JmVQ6XHlrQbWV0AFa2o1CKgWmYgiPQdw_1V_hQ6djw/s1600/blog+update+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477451009475525042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZPaM0fAHsKODDKWJXnhs8yIGTV-xc38TnAbxr0ClHh5oPf6ftnVDQa7M9gy0V87gvwbvEmEM8NKc1CMblZX4CX2vujjeB6JG8JmVQ6XHlrQbWV0AFa2o1CKgWmYgiPQdw_1V_hQ6djw/s320/blog+update+003.jpg" border="0" /></a> We sold the old table on craigslist in a matter of hours. Two old ladies came by the house the next day with a pick-up truck.
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIjFVYK4I34y30VOL7RZpYY_v_9t9Ta0p_dJRo4mUsqQjaLVZIaI2OYeeXONmDvaummM2EeQW4clJVx9vJ0DeRA9i7Nh4gHCFQOjEVFBwPQVuN3r8e7_Zt7jg5fBSeXWOrOMADFsi_-58/s1600/blog+update+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477450252774818418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIjFVYK4I34y30VOL7RZpYY_v_9t9Ta0p_dJRo4mUsqQjaLVZIaI2OYeeXONmDvaummM2EeQW4clJVx9vJ0DeRA9i7Nh4gHCFQOjEVFBwPQVuN3r8e7_Zt7jg5fBSeXWOrOMADFsi_-58/s320/blog+update+002.jpg" border="0" /></a>I love it. I hope you can enjoy a meal with us soon :)
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFT9m8ZwRojXF7d027J6WoBVmN9X4kLh-N15jolwnonoU7eIN7xriFrPkrVQ0mYkO4sAN9ZR3pGlKlnBWY2skxAMYV8IvCSqpKF2MyZpG-fgNucLcp9P7KvHXGrHRmHkAJp8-BixXDc_4/s1600/blog+update+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477449901865220706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFT9m8ZwRojXF7d027J6WoBVmN9X4kLh-N15jolwnonoU7eIN7xriFrPkrVQ0mYkO4sAN9ZR3pGlKlnBWY2skxAMYV8IvCSqpKF2MyZpG-fgNucLcp9P7KvHXGrHRmHkAJp8-BixXDc_4/s320/blog+update+001.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWNhFSxnQjx7z5XgK2B89NlkWmXdfcXsroecWgJUiCCvTOwnKU9eXNX3LLIa1yXaCEDJ5hOErmtTDUFEDjM7P-GUXWlQxP-6peTmeFPxQFeUJ5DgZTbiLQ3Go4jUkftakhkvXnW1PTx14/s1600/blog+update+033.jpg"></a>
<div></div></div></div></div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-80607776940726132682010-03-30T20:15:00.008-05:002010-03-30T20:55:23.232-05:00Thrift Store RunI had taken a break from the thrift store, mainly because they hadn't had many new donations. I have been waiting for the weather to get warm and people to get motivated to donate again. Our local thrift store is directly related to our local hospital-- so I feel pretty good about donating and buying knowing that I am helping a good cause. I save money and donate to charity all at the same time.
Don't get your hopes up... I had this shelf, but it needed to be painted white to be hung in the gray bedroom. It was just in the basement for my spray paint party on Sunday.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDirNeXRoYziWWbheVJjVzzID87Ik12XnMfAjAXPBZbz4_Mh3U7wyclNniNJiEd9nu70DdZvNe3u5JXllnyO_xKm6rbac_GBKuEBuf_cO9pIQkOKOMxZ3YPzkLaN_SQNl-NkHww9csAzc/s1600/Picture+017.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDirNeXRoYziWWbheVJjVzzID87Ik12XnMfAjAXPBZbz4_Mh3U7wyclNniNJiEd9nu70DdZvNe3u5JXllnyO_xKm6rbac_GBKuEBuf_cO9pIQkOKOMxZ3YPzkLaN_SQNl-NkHww9csAzc/s320/Picture+017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454602686206791954" border="0" /></a>On to what I found at the thrift store... a picture with a frame ($6) and a lamp ($4.50). I forgot to take a picture of the beautiful painting (insert <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">sarcasm</span>) that was in the frame. I have been looking for a large frame to paint white and put a chalkboard inside to mount on the kitchen wall. This project is to be continued...
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5fBfcDdwQT9WDoEVJmzlV4pEFANwvGSQ2W3G9WqhRoVFEIzjJyBuFu-eircjc8ShVjvkPdDvgb2QfgPd4LugThqoJpAEroGFDmPvL4x1lW55yXXwm9l_fYyZ9hga5EkP2lh-eDlLfCI/s1600/Picture+018.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5fBfcDdwQT9WDoEVJmzlV4pEFANwvGSQ2W3G9WqhRoVFEIzjJyBuFu-eircjc8ShVjvkPdDvgb2QfgPd4LugThqoJpAEroGFDmPvL4x1lW55yXXwm9l_fYyZ9hga5EkP2lh-eDlLfCI/s320/Picture+018.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454602397988761378" border="0" /></a>This is the frame... more closeup pictures to come.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qAd_y4VZ3rfQfOLHN2Af-aOh8384y-eRSxN90-byf7BdqbluFBHLccigv-YemKi8HmsZjK8eT9Ce48Z2ThAXASiAxi8WVEQod2EkWfoABxYDvgUhy6PZ8uB9HWtIe5rNXDagS-WXWZ4/s1600/Picture+019.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qAd_y4VZ3rfQfOLHN2Af-aOh8384y-eRSxN90-byf7BdqbluFBHLccigv-YemKi8HmsZjK8eT9Ce48Z2ThAXASiAxi8WVEQod2EkWfoABxYDvgUhy6PZ8uB9HWtIe5rNXDagS-WXWZ4/s320/Picture+019.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454601637033127794" border="0" /></a>The lamp... just the height I was looking for, but it needs spray paint. I was just going to do black, but I was out. Can you believe I ran out of black spray paint? I used the bronzed <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">metallic</span> spray I used on the kitchen cabinet knobs.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHPN2u4PPuv314EeYn7CKc2stKn9gXYP-ffLaRet-2xzeRgXorE52uu59EOQmjv5Rnfsbojxept44ap53aQ9uuYWKIz-gypqqfwJP4US76nCyxz9EssK10HKDQ58X2LT2_ENHZ3BEZFs8/s1600/Picture+020.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHPN2u4PPuv314EeYn7CKc2stKn9gXYP-ffLaRet-2xzeRgXorE52uu59EOQmjv5Rnfsbojxept44ap53aQ9uuYWKIz-gypqqfwJP4US76nCyxz9EssK10HKDQ58X2LT2_ENHZ3BEZFs8/s320/Picture+020.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454601403423936386" border="0" /></a>Always remember to tape off the electronics before spraying.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbaN852aRYaKOQVNh1-zVXxQQscPCu2m7aIzUArcJG5NW01x3cIoI4jhP3EROBO8Uu_6PqSbM0sRSeMxsEOIOAsIyjE1D05Bf_h87b4mMvR323VsWbJovMema1SShFaknjigFP8qadT28/s1600/Picture+021.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbaN852aRYaKOQVNh1-zVXxQQscPCu2m7aIzUArcJG5NW01x3cIoI4jhP3EROBO8Uu_6PqSbM0sRSeMxsEOIOAsIyjE1D05Bf_h87b4mMvR323VsWbJovMema1SShFaknjigFP8qadT28/s320/Picture+021.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454601169238188514" border="0" /></a>
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClL3AVe90CSQzMbPlnkf7v6q9xCgqlPK83eQrGJqf03njN_Qq8yIjEqO3u1pvPpvDPJTwwygcVWaikArnQp5rGQC6V2vcYAFskp34KsIsu33VjWLbxqB84fw1HHFlKeSCYw2pQy4Fj3w/s1600/Picture+022.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClL3AVe90CSQzMbPlnkf7v6q9xCgqlPK83eQrGJqf03njN_Qq8yIjEqO3u1pvPpvDPJTwwygcVWaikArnQp5rGQC6V2vcYAFskp34KsIsu33VjWLbxqB84fw1HHFlKeSCYw2pQy4Fj3w/s320/Picture+022.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454600778416853570" border="0" /></a>What do you think? Pretty good for a $4.50 lamp.Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-46731728571383432532010-03-30T19:57:00.006-05:002010-03-30T20:13:53.797-05:00Bird Houses for Relay for LifeOur Relay for Life team at church is doing an auction of bird houses. I was given a blank slate and a deadline... this is how it was done with things I just had around the house.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52mphuFqky1PQmPFDz7VrGAR7es84LoIBsB7LmWZm-P6UzPJ3Og8pCKJKWqGd8EdzZCWu7vccDi4jTgMaCuFGJ0IUq1JkQsUk01zFygTZ1GnkJ2qZY3ipgcUWb31sQboYwdlG1WBEAgM/s1600/Picture+001.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52mphuFqky1PQmPFDz7VrGAR7es84LoIBsB7LmWZm-P6UzPJ3Og8pCKJKWqGd8EdzZCWu7vccDi4jTgMaCuFGJ0IUq1JkQsUk01zFygTZ1GnkJ2qZY3ipgcUWb31sQboYwdlG1WBEAgM/s320/Picture+001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454597664852069346" border="0" /></a>Leftover wainscoting from the bathroom was added to the roof. The roof was painted white from extra white paint I found in the basement.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtLgcU0GhaNKwefc6_vrgrorbGpWvHQJUo2Pe3Zkm-9dGPXWwYxseTUkOpA8JPFlddyxjgQKaFnGgwrcs1jAUQHDMg9b-Ags4JtsCpQAoYxQBUgsxShIVCMSKS-g2Z27IBFk7W8iiuQk/s1600/Picture+010.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtLgcU0GhaNKwefc6_vrgrorbGpWvHQJUo2Pe3Zkm-9dGPXWwYxseTUkOpA8JPFlddyxjgQKaFnGgwrcs1jAUQHDMg9b-Ags4JtsCpQAoYxQBUgsxShIVCMSKS-g2Z27IBFk7W8iiuQk/s320/Picture+010.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454597190690947010" border="0" /></a>The house was painted the same color as the new bathroom walls and the base was painted a green color I found in my acrylic paints.
I took some dark brown paint to age the paint and bring out the details of the house.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitmiWloIdtvyQhJVRnGuNjzJqpIDG3WSEJT505ddmr35TaVc70O4YxHp_eAHFuNWOC6hCg50mMigdkzkt4CNSzU9CFQ2e9f1aYzTMNjLoidKVM4AsNKB1wUWgCKe8Pj37pmp731J22Wg/s1600/Picture+014.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitmiWloIdtvyQhJVRnGuNjzJqpIDG3WSEJT505ddmr35TaVc70O4YxHp_eAHFuNWOC6hCg50mMigdkzkt4CNSzU9CFQ2e9f1aYzTMNjLoidKVM4AsNKB1wUWgCKe8Pj37pmp731J22Wg/s320/Picture+014.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454596770356393634" border="0" /></a>
I added vines to the sides...
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibn6GDz3622HE4RCU_ecZYr7rlBzUXS8_ZIEaeqeWhW1nQ34cL2UhCsIoM16CveWwRBlJ2OKD4yvRG6mJm1_AA19Oeh6dNZ4NXU-QClnRb1ERb_pocqrl46y0b83Cx-TLFriglhgp9bp8/s1600/Picture+015.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibn6GDz3622HE4RCU_ecZYr7rlBzUXS8_ZIEaeqeWhW1nQ34cL2UhCsIoM16CveWwRBlJ2OKD4yvRG6mJm1_AA19Oeh6dNZ4NXU-QClnRb1ERb_pocqrl46y0b83Cx-TLFriglhgp9bp8/s320/Picture+015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454596509325501890" border="0" /></a>
I stuffed some extra moss in the holes to appear like their was a nest inside.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_y0Nds0U6JTA5H8yDoy63vT4bfKBHx_sL25YE0C0zMR3k7c_dyn0ulJAP2bZkBWdSr9ihQ506X7e9HwA6wkjXFhhyphenhyphenH_DN8hy5POrZWc1K-RcBz5ITTaFeW8kZ3HdlKABoKs6w_0Eg0P0/s1600/Picture+016.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_y0Nds0U6JTA5H8yDoy63vT4bfKBHx_sL25YE0C0zMR3k7c_dyn0ulJAP2bZkBWdSr9ihQ506X7e9HwA6wkjXFhhyphenhyphenH_DN8hy5POrZWc1K-RcBz5ITTaFeW8kZ3HdlKABoKs6w_0Eg0P0/s320/Picture+016.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454596241559792882" border="0" /></a>
I can't wait to see how it helps our relay team raise funds for cancer research!Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-63683094761451751632010-03-30T19:37:00.007-05:002010-03-30T19:57:16.299-05:00Some Spring Decorations<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAsS5FSln3ZQmsO5jQVkpeUiXV6FsDKBFifjecb68qNhSx5Rqx5SdSwAav2h-HojI6d1T_fpdsb4UbS5bv2L8FMdfA6kiSKZUsAsHBkD7kcAH2aokXvef-utDkJWh5VXexARt9TLGWnY/s1600/Picture+007.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAsS5FSln3ZQmsO5jQVkpeUiXV6FsDKBFifjecb68qNhSx5Rqx5SdSwAav2h-HojI6d1T_fpdsb4UbS5bv2L8FMdfA6kiSKZUsAsHBkD7kcAH2aokXvef-utDkJWh5VXexARt9TLGWnY/s320/Picture+007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454591913361324530" border="0" /> <span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></a>
The little birdie was only $1.99 from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Gordmans</span>. The white container was on clearance for $4. I took <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">styrofoam</span> from my new table and used it instead of buying expensive floral stuffing for the bottom of the container. I added white hydrangeas with white floral buds - about $5 with some moss filler.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePaUK1dIh_KytjHTfkYPUPc7Pc8plf3nF-rSzzz32QXmEWfYWB7OHtuadUjPXgn9fDe-OFulZBna6jy1ZECd1zur5GD9_ey8MNNfiyfVhloNmGewHrRp_V-6GGCMTyQIQ649OezbNwV8/s1600/Picture+006.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePaUK1dIh_KytjHTfkYPUPc7Pc8plf3nF-rSzzz32QXmEWfYWB7OHtuadUjPXgn9fDe-OFulZBna6jy1ZECd1zur5GD9_ey8MNNfiyfVhloNmGewHrRp_V-6GGCMTyQIQ649OezbNwV8/s320/Picture+006.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454591607671630450" border="0" /></a>
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKWmNkRYYTnr82PFYGbx5mdLVrcAXFrfL2qgha9x4BxceBsb359xFXpD0LjJ73H_iPLnPtsbQmQn0hUta5emTDyqTp3-rec5FdgXDmcHJcQNMmVmzx27W3gZ1axJpKNJItGFusctu-2Cw/s1600/Picture+005.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKWmNkRYYTnr82PFYGbx5mdLVrcAXFrfL2qgha9x4BxceBsb359xFXpD0LjJ73H_iPLnPtsbQmQn0hUta5emTDyqTp3-rec5FdgXDmcHJcQNMmVmzx27W3gZ1axJpKNJItGFusctu-2Cw/s320/Picture+005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454591387266918498" border="0" /></a>
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAD7WFn4hUKxtqLEYvEEZrc1cyxtWAK3URj_px5su_TkQOk_kaWAhOgzXQtU7dCTYZXLFAl0_fbZlE6qSeQT3ZJjDGR98MxqYDOCGrvw3x6EgMQgIr5gIh4qOikuCgVuLJV-8bBDVHVxE/s1600/Picture+004.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAD7WFn4hUKxtqLEYvEEZrc1cyxtWAK3URj_px5su_TkQOk_kaWAhOgzXQtU7dCTYZXLFAl0_fbZlE6qSeQT3ZJjDGR98MxqYDOCGrvw3x6EgMQgIr5gIh4qOikuCgVuLJV-8bBDVHVxE/s320/Picture+004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454591164662724434" border="0" /></a>This little chickie was only $1.99 too. I took a small 99 cent wreath and glued some moss to make a small nest. The eggs were already spring colors, but I "flicked" brown paint on them to distress them slightly. I know "flicked" is a very technical term, but I don't know what else to call taking watery paint and flicking it in the direction of the eggs.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrS9VDY9FbBv70prLmxUgG4fKSnSntgQvPdH0LTEmeXPDBNYWzgIbm7l5WA3E291YrkFB6MzkSF9q-6U7WdL3wmqL6TucWIjvnRpKHqJ_miOvnDgfVmjT8tUNa0HJoc_ZrWiuD2-zWlI/s1600/Picture+003.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrS9VDY9FbBv70prLmxUgG4fKSnSntgQvPdH0LTEmeXPDBNYWzgIbm7l5WA3E291YrkFB6MzkSF9q-6U7WdL3wmqL6TucWIjvnRpKHqJ_miOvnDgfVmjT8tUNa0HJoc_ZrWiuD2-zWlI/s320/Picture+003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454590943798266642" border="0" /></a>
What are your favorite new spring decorations?Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-79655410009765666312010-03-30T19:22:00.004-05:002010-03-30T19:32:09.421-05:00Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVbAH5gpuKju_ZdTaFZ11ruEQ9uK3acqH_KmtLwdsO0lf7VbOJWx_I2YhgYLjzz9OzuHAE2ia8wMY30JAFTxofdmDpg7UucVTi86-ELGjjw7g_P3ux_CNNuxmMfDs68Gz8eqUS816-EHQ/s1600/Picture+011.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVbAH5gpuKju_ZdTaFZ11ruEQ9uK3acqH_KmtLwdsO0lf7VbOJWx_I2YhgYLjzz9OzuHAE2ia8wMY30JAFTxofdmDpg7UucVTi86-ELGjjw7g_P3ux_CNNuxmMfDs68Gz8eqUS816-EHQ/s320/Picture+011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454587589307111938" border="0" /></a>
This might be my husbands favorite new recipe... to eat. He occasionally asks for rice <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">krispy</span> treats, but they are pretty boring to me. Pampered Chef came through for me again with an awesome recipe!<p>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars</span><p>
¼ cup dry-roasted peanuts
3 cups mini pretzel twists (about 1 2∕3 cups coarsely crushed), divided
3 cups crisp rice cereal
¾ cup butter (1½ sticks), divided
1 bag (10.5 oz) miniature marshmallows
½ cup light corn syrup, divided
1 bag (10 oz) peanut butter morsels
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels
<p>Coarsely chop peanuts using Food Chopper; set aside. Place pretzels into large resealable plastic bag; coarsely crush using flat side of Meat Tenderizer. Set aside ¹∕3 cup of the pretzels. Place remaining pretzels and cereal in Stainless Mixing Bowl.
<p>Place 6 tbsp of the butter in Classic Batter Bowl. Microwave on HIGH 30–45 seconds or until melted. Add marshmallows; microwave on HIGH 45–60 seconds. Stir until marshmallows are completely melted using Mix ‘N Scraper®. Immediately add marshmallow mixture to mixing bowl; mix thoroughly. Spread crust evenly over 9x13 pan; firmly press into pan using waxed paper.
<p>Combine 2 tbsp of the butter and half of the corn syrup in Small Micro-Cooker®. Microwave, uncovered, on HIGH 30–45 seconds or until melted. Stir in peanut butter morsels; mix until melted (mixture will be stiff). Spread peanut butter mixture over crust using Small Spreader.
<p>For <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ganache</span>, place remaining butter and corn syrup in Small Batter Bowl. Microwave on HIGH 30–45 seconds or until melted. Stir in chocolate morsels; mix until smooth. Spread <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ganache</span> evenly over peanut butter mixture. Sprinkle with peanuts and reserved pretzels. Place in freezer 5–10 minutes or until <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ganache</span> is set. Cut into 24 squares; cut squares in half.Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-52859146830262646512010-03-02T20:39:00.006-06:002010-03-02T20:49:15.714-06:00Earings For My New BathroomIs it silly to think of your wall hangings as your rooms <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">earrings</span>? Just like adding jewelry to your outfit, what you put on your walls takes the room up a notch. The previous post included one of the "earrings". I'm getting so excited to hang this stuff up!
<div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444232542716715042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPgbXl_NYkoo43piaTauaskLLfuHm-ntO2xIOL_bWYBpRfYFZppSI0475RLNCuN27gQxg0oWXi5Y_lIYvS1_qv9v_N8ZG3_ow1E_QARWQMA70nf5lAkbuQOEieyBHq9sVqLCdRa7RdHWY/s320/008.JPG" />
<div></div><div>I found this picture in a resale shop in town. Can you guess how much I paid... $5. This piece will help bring out the wall color and introduce the dark brown color I'm thinking of using for the towels. </div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444231997933269666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElnZpkFZAR3mnnNDpPUpWLy-JMUrb9yqFN7JhCtvbF7CXpmgdd6NJ53xWww1YS6jMZhLxRbyfSzkXp7qyWbXLf5eV7GpGPMcAXnSdmLaDPGJ9DLC9DE5id2tJyzmiVCIPGku7h6jHsWc/s320/007.JPG" /></div></div>
<p>This hanging vase was a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Christmas</span> gift from my grandma. It's very elegant and will help me bring in a natural element to the room. I was thinking of putting small sea shells in the bottom. I'll look for natural colored flowers and a just a few stems for this. </p><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444232237929166338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoXnHVAvLovF0jO8x_cQCIz0_ZFuiIh6ffUGowUw9tTHzGM_eVhk_NTIGp_VgrDfteMeX4_XzcZ0XHXwTvBcR1-G4HKCPVwc_N1Xyy4ee05aO_Nzk5nGfs8YjE1t4c0Uv-jfjrAzXJt3c/s320/011.JPG" /></p><p></p>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-63482068739001259622010-03-02T20:31:00.008-06:002010-03-02T20:39:10.427-06:00The man is starting to think like me...Two become one when you get married... but as the years pass it really happens. My husband has started thinking like me. He suggested this re-purpose project! I'm not sure if he's getting creative or trying to save money on the bathroom.
<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444230678942711074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1o_YSsQhmTOpVsYbXPINVfdXNZ3A5r7r00OI6rTVtR9q9RpUHD70H_BI-xQRIN3QvqmKK3Cx-MAbXjEgmwJfZ2wrv3-Y_8PTAG2FZ4q14NLTYh1t3JIg8VAZlVo4DO4MNoZaOhaR658c/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+032.JPG" />
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<div>This black mirror/ picture thing was in our entryway (if that's what you can call it) in our first house. I had a picture of our engagement and wedding. I'm not sure what I'll put in the picture area, but for now it just has some fabric swatches. Since the bathroom has white I just sprayed it white and distressed it. I used the same knobs. </div><div> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444230008338186338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4_SHsymipFNHJYxIDJLCHmRQp9twe_7wzNS8iMZPwNPfuopb0dNIS7XcqsB1K7puQMBhWMijYcJ5Kk4vlwgVXW18_Pv2ZqAsYswc2fymT9lAhRB538Sp9u5DA8u8ZqA2CxlFf5SreWQ/s320/008.JPG" /></div></div>
<p>I'm not sure what I'll fill it with, but I'll think of something. Leave a comment if you have an idea. </p><p>I'd say he's got some great ideas and I didn't do too bad on actually completing the project. </p>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-33855248188918703132010-03-02T20:01:00.010-06:002010-03-02T20:30:14.497-06:00Almost complete bathroom updateIt's almost done!!! We're missing a working toilet, but it's in the right place. Soon I'll post the finishing touches. The end is my favorite-- not because it's almost complete, but that's where I get to do my work with little touches to bring everything together.
The lights are hung...
<div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444222509921887634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlzSKoY9gVMT3lpb4E3Y-i25ZbwKue3q3xAZ21obFJQ2-I7eW8KbfYhlKYRKZcxQGzKEePazkTmXsD1o6dX0yO-LOzadtzqzvMhCf8B3zLZiHZOZI3HihP088jNBz-XvhNyeXkT8PVp1s/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+034.JPG" /> </div><div>The trim is on and painted...</div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444222862758477010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh786AtLbTouTFd49QPtUS2mFxYi97AXLYf-lKqWqp7oTa57caDPA_mQwEfKBuMCHBsvajiS_uk5Ps6LtwcEGj4D4Yvvw1lmC8sO9PJHvCwB4wvijaQySRpQjDv6S0Kyq1mK2XhO9KBO8/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+033.JPG" /> The tub is caulked...<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444227530531186914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jXBzxEZWczOQit1yRS2TK4suLpMbNUJ4kHi-aw2Q4HeEETYdhyphenhyphenzzio62WVLdv3H5t_6idHpV-3xb7xE5a9o8-S2YETdimJEfICE1D9WxAsvQQAYuKiO7i_bK1K4p4Lw96Se2mUHGaLo/s320/006.JPG" /> The mirror and towel bar are hung... <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444227204276937282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJGNvoS9eDKBKCV6Dv1KBOfiwZTt9MWR1DgnA0mv1SnQEZlh-1e4pSuB9qsLq296rdDUlPjlQTbA8SpIDVM2p_suPn5wf8j8vWd9qC4aGf0FSs8RrYtMnpe6s_fPn51dNyutDzt3cTf0M/s320/005.JPG" /> The sink and faucet are working...
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ0p-x2r04cXnHd6qs2Z2_Am4bQwglVBhA_qXFlFLrtiiI6GI3JAsnj-eCCo0CO9FBI8vgM850nbM6MGoBuBJwGkypvpyizf71tBhZ7jnOdPftdPNcfk3IqbEH1pJOHH1uYhEQA7VWImc/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444226167411589170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ0p-x2r04cXnHd6qs2Z2_Am4bQwglVBhA_qXFlFLrtiiI6GI3JAsnj-eCCo0CO9FBI8vgM850nbM6MGoBuBJwGkypvpyizf71tBhZ7jnOdPftdPNcfk3IqbEH1pJOHH1uYhEQA7VWImc/s320/001.JPG" /></a> It's almost a complete bathroom...
<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444226484018037266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGVb36vYs1vfvGRNB-ma22SOf7CrcPQkZry97zOwTMGgHJPlbb6MqZXilJiYHe9KeED2Z0R7UuDPVqRq-uy9m_gO7Qu0efEkkU2NVNicbGyts0AdQzW7aGBcuaah2qSvsqXN52EtgFUW4/s320/004.JPG" />The curtain is hung to hide the peach tub. We're just missing the toilet seat... and a little toilet paper :)
<div><div><div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-67943866177257423492010-03-02T19:52:00.006-06:002010-03-02T20:01:14.020-06:00There's no more mouse in the houseI knew the day would come when we would get a mouse in the house. We have a large open field across the street and the day finally came. Kolin opened a cabinet and there it was.... mouse poo...
For about a week we tried to kill it with the old snap traps, but the peanut butter wasn't cutting it. We just kept finding poo in the empty cabinet, but no mouse. We even found it in the drawer next to the cabinet.
I finally bought the glue traps and we got him the first night... in the middle of the counter!!! What would you do if you had a live mouse stuck in super duty glue on your counter? Well my husband decided to put a bowl over it until we were able to dispose of it. Don't worry he didn't use the pampered chef ones :)
<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444221190672471794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9qVPsyRhxnHbpYavgK5PYfSQUWu2GvJpAoQXU-XRWepuAvdYks-Rw_IP6RhA2qo861UcIIN61jWqgTYSHo3wLXOs9hZVjsVODjyMcMSBMBaYAiuXo8NWicoiox8AuCbf5KM4zMaOvHtU/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+030.JPG" /> <div align="center">Gotcha little mouse!!!</div><div align="center"> </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444220903462439714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicY7TEkNADFO7-6wGuJ6f6qca1DO-EQfcQw_S1GEKIjeYCRp0_B414SP-08r_v8JDqy2EZ34VYG_jT5S_QgNWXU55DUSk0zlEoc56_tRw1A6xT_iLqbrHulxtxmh3I_eA3l45rKMZhxQw/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+031.JPG" />Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-10406067473011746412010-02-21T22:21:00.003-06:002010-02-21T22:29:05.082-06:0060th Birthday CupcakesWe just celebrated my handyman's 60th birthday. For his party I made some special chocolate cupcakes. The recipe was inspired by a recipe in the new Pampered Chef Desserts Cookbook coming out this spring.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGP4BPwXnJa8BmHqSipW2thv8CquvslUlSCK8M9waVVBAgr2I1NWjjyQ66QBqVmNKkdbvFotKbEvJOuTTs7Qim5TRKpxExjWERJAjWTROadr-M_XYlovOsUrswygT1hND7-ynKDPmLPHI/s1600-h/untitled+025.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440918683997829778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGP4BPwXnJa8BmHqSipW2thv8CquvslUlSCK8M9waVVBAgr2I1NWjjyQ66QBqVmNKkdbvFotKbEvJOuTTs7Qim5TRKpxExjWERJAjWTROadr-M_XYlovOsUrswygT1hND7-ynKDPmLPHI/s320/untitled+025.jpg" border="0" /></a> The cupcakes have a truffle in the center. After you back the chocolate cupcakes, take the kitchen sheers and cut an "X" in the top. Push the truffle in the center so it melts to a gooey center. I topped these with Cream Cheese Icing. I only had 12 truffles, so 12 other cupcakes didn't have a filling.
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4HbNbJ1t7KsVdfAVvCG4N5_GR3FIDgUZlTnRAVhDtdPxgbo_RQesXn4MHmhgow4f6T13PXVXaMwxGl5VDdquojHCy5gz45rO05CyH203tSWaPHByu0Eqka1UKPf8nUTlCQrgj7b-21Y/s1600-h/untitled+027.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440918465446041602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4HbNbJ1t7KsVdfAVvCG4N5_GR3FIDgUZlTnRAVhDtdPxgbo_RQesXn4MHmhgow4f6T13PXVXaMwxGl5VDdquojHCy5gz45rO05CyH203tSWaPHByu0Eqka1UKPf8nUTlCQrgj7b-21Y/s320/untitled+027.jpg" border="0" /></a> I used the shaker to sprinkle cocoa on the top of the cupcakes that had a truffle inside. </div><div> </div><div>Many other versions are possible: caramel, rolo, chocolate covered espresso beans, jelly/ jam, etc... </div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-38120637235045865152010-02-21T21:57:00.007-06:002010-02-21T22:20:26.580-06:00Another Bathroom UpdateFriday night was paint night! There is much more to this story... First I thought about using the FREE Gliddon paint (remember that promotion?), but when I opened both cans they were hard as a rock. Moving on to the backup plan. You guessed it, cheap mistints. I found a can of neutral paint for $6 at Walmart a few weeks ago. I figured I could use it eventually. I'm glad I had it because there is nothing worse than being ready to start a project without the right tools.<p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1dzdmYzU_g3lSt8WJi859ixrFywST_KQ3VseDu1u8WWpcpdlHjJCWD0i0-AfHtglkITNKZOZ9h1lf29v9zVkVm_UgFSOVCfJFVzERI5Z3PmAJrv-vCbkAWVLkFmwf6UMehm2Iondb73A/s1600-h/untitled+030.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440913010391984338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1dzdmYzU_g3lSt8WJi859ixrFywST_KQ3VseDu1u8WWpcpdlHjJCWD0i0-AfHtglkITNKZOZ9h1lf29v9zVkVm_UgFSOVCfJFVzERI5Z3PmAJrv-vCbkAWVLkFmwf6UMehm2Iondb73A/s320/untitled+030.jpg" border="0" /></a> What do you think about the color? I think it's better than the gray I was planning on. This blends better with the peachy/ tan bathtub. The tub will be covered anyway... no budget for this one to be repainted now.<p>
<div>This Saturday was a HUGE day in the bathroom. The ceiling was finished... except for 2 tiles. Ooops, we didn't buy enough. That is one disadvantage of living 35 minutes from Home Depot. The tiles will have to wait until the next trip. The ceiling looks beautiful. Did I just say that? Never thought I would say that about a drop ceiling, but it was our only option. I'm glad we replaced instead of repaired or just changed out the tiles. </div><p>
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGrKsnWCyJoGLdW6yQyt3eZE52TBUaIqrYljsRQtEJH9IP6JdoEP-9OINyBnbzTvLpS8FiXJS9hLYexGpcjbKKsw7FS8CDhxYWg6NzvcVrkEWqiIL14fP5ZKSBrkQnwQHGC21Pde-w2zE/s1600-h/untitled+029.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440912770216885298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGrKsnWCyJoGLdW6yQyt3eZE52TBUaIqrYljsRQtEJH9IP6JdoEP-9OINyBnbzTvLpS8FiXJS9hLYexGpcjbKKsw7FS8CDhxYWg6NzvcVrkEWqiIL14fP5ZKSBrkQnwQHGC21Pde-w2zE/s320/untitled+029.jpg" border="0" /></a>
What do you think about the wainscotting? We have to caulk the seams and paint. I still need to pickout the top molding. We have the baseboard and door trim. That's the next step. </div><div><div></div><p>
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQfHEXJnZb68TtRnNGduWtSqvYVO5kpOHdma1tIvNOfhztAePWAoRppyE0f4AoIBH-LYowaHGR8IiyXZ0tUSbeuNYaOX30TLbNeSnhyphenhyphenreixRnuiwFM8F7tCJF0w7fIHx9JpzVQ7GWbvrs/s1600-h/untitled+028.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440912335627224466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQfHEXJnZb68TtRnNGduWtSqvYVO5kpOHdma1tIvNOfhztAePWAoRppyE0f4AoIBH-LYowaHGR8IiyXZ0tUSbeuNYaOX30TLbNeSnhyphenhyphenreixRnuiwFM8F7tCJF0w7fIHx9JpzVQ7GWbvrs/s320/untitled+028.jpg" border="0" /></a> I never finished telling you about the floor. I finished that earlier this week. I finished cutting it and then grouted it. It's much easier dealing with the grout when the bathtub works. Now for cleaning out the sandy grout from the tub - next weekend's project.
<div></div></div></div><p>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-14032943933791400892010-02-14T22:07:00.008-06:002010-02-14T22:18:54.158-06:00Bathroom UpdateI hope you are as excited as I am to get this bathroom finished. Well it's coming along. Here's a little update: <p>
<p>The ceiling is out... but there was even more wallpaper above the drop ceiling. We have to install a new drop ceiling because of the HVAC and plumbing above. You can see the new track along the wall being installed. <p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrfPLaCeKwXhuembv5bbJegxihI7CyHmAa5HnAHXWQmu-IeKzvLr8Ebe-gJIDOLwfTtfZVfs3k2uplivyg2yi88NZm2EmL1-JkMGedGnxoHxg7aS9KzmoC24Eo3fH74kKcynezUrACcE/s1600-h/untitled+020.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438318031140044370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrfPLaCeKwXhuembv5bbJegxihI7CyHmAa5HnAHXWQmu-IeKzvLr8Ebe-gJIDOLwfTtfZVfs3k2uplivyg2yi88NZm2EmL1-JkMGedGnxoHxg7aS9KzmoC24Eo3fH74kKcynezUrACcE/s320/untitled+020.jpg" border="0" /></a> I'm keeping this tub the same neutral peach color... I'm cheap and a shower curtain will hide it - I HOPE!! <p>
<p>You can see the lower half of the wall that was damaged pretty badly. We decided to put wainscotting up to hide the imperfections. The picture below is where the toilet and pedastal sink will be installed. <p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoftdDU-9WAY8rboPxJzYAq55tqkL7o-Z_9oB6fQ4q4vcQUnB_S2ZUPE43_xw01qeIqkdRK5kNAoNYFRo8_x-JoTybZ9i5ZZroSPJl-5MuEyml0cSqYmJOubZF-7pSDg7ZSq0BZIGrsm0/s1600-h/untitled+018.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438317764762954338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoftdDU-9WAY8rboPxJzYAq55tqkL7o-Z_9oB6fQ4q4vcQUnB_S2ZUPE43_xw01qeIqkdRK5kNAoNYFRo8_x-JoTybZ9i5ZZroSPJl-5MuEyml0cSqYmJOubZF-7pSDg7ZSq0BZIGrsm0/s320/untitled+018.jpg" border="0" /></a>This is the flooring I'm installing. It's the same as the other bathroom, but a different pattern. I'm installing it in a zig-zag, so the seams don't meet. <p>
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LqGn-xwxHkDP1uhKH52r6LgJxpTOPASb09_YoWsSDisRk56ZCpM4vv-4C_pcdaE6MaRMGB4PYxU2iTRZR6kXlElzdAhcTYedLDG4O1TFXcUrpYIZormF1O9sPFcDquKgsmAsuoDjMgc/s1600-h/untitled+021.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438317530832035442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LqGn-xwxHkDP1uhKH52r6LgJxpTOPASb09_YoWsSDisRk56ZCpM4vv-4C_pcdaE6MaRMGB4PYxU2iTRZR6kXlElzdAhcTYedLDG4O1TFXcUrpYIZormF1O9sPFcDquKgsmAsuoDjMgc/s320/untitled+021.jpg" border="0" /></a> <p>I hope to have another update once the floor, walls and ceiling are finished. Who knows what color I'll choose! <p></p></div><div></div><div>**I was at Walmart last week and found a mistint that might work. I can't pass up a gallon of good paint for $6.00. </div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-50534257744677451162010-02-14T21:54:00.003-06:002010-02-14T22:06:58.046-06:00Valentine Hoodie<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiszDcC3ryMhsJH_P70I4CxH0lZEsk-mkwpHoNRlGsjnFqGai-uoy7FQGm2lHd9F_e4g5dXK6bsECY_SWnS4aXBWQXnboEtv9tqYr5i4wnLqGIedJn98DCxXpZkKzxO8YbWFwHJ8qhW_4o/s1600-h/cover.gif"></a> What do you get a 1 year old for Valentine's Day? I had no idea either. I found a $4 white hoodie at Target and let my imagination take it from there. When I got home I got out my ribbon box to see what I could put together.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0TmBRjiGdRp1E2HQFpOC1SvgqSdFS8MSfuK5jO-E16x6tmhI51bcu7_K06zeLB2QBOsGycdRk0KXrapO0m6UGbuwe50P116P-0YT6n5wFdjxvOYLrQBjj0AXZm1wMUMq5XLbfxQ1M88/s1600-h/untitled+023.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438314319313863058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0TmBRjiGdRp1E2HQFpOC1SvgqSdFS8MSfuK5jO-E16x6tmhI51bcu7_K06zeLB2QBOsGycdRk0KXrapO0m6UGbuwe50P116P-0YT6n5wFdjxvOYLrQBjj0AXZm1wMUMq5XLbfxQ1M88/s320/untitled+023.jpg" border="0" /></a> This is what I came up with. A thick pink and white ribbon around the hood. A thinner ribbon with smaller polka dots and a white button to hold the ribbon together and to the jacket.
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitF6VNTeYyCfBjWmjaDd-ISgTBurU3Ty2yBMRJuZZJwQWKjoEQkdn2KxSKY81LdrxBAxYg4ESzkcWv03Es5uyeUpohr6nzgfNgjEnOn5sB4rt8yyy_KxELzCbyUwqNnQXQIclWVIOue3Y/s1600-h/untitled+024.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438314089390905570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitF6VNTeYyCfBjWmjaDd-ISgTBurU3Ty2yBMRJuZZJwQWKjoEQkdn2KxSKY81LdrxBAxYg4ESzkcWv03Es5uyeUpohr6nzgfNgjEnOn5sB4rt8yyy_KxELzCbyUwqNnQXQIclWVIOue3Y/s320/untitled+024.jpg" border="0" /></a>
I hope you enjoyed time with someone special today!
<div></div></div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-47834905431553555302010-02-08T21:12:00.001-06:002010-02-08T21:13:41.707-06:00Something to ponder...Accept you were never in control and experience the serenity that resides...Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-44383826574952111992010-02-02T20:35:00.007-06:002010-02-02T20:50:32.166-06:00Chicken & Asparagus (Broccoli) Risotto SkilletThis is a recipe that will be added to my monthly rotation - YUMMY and EASY!! It's a Pampered Chef Classic.
<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 367px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.perdue.com/files/Chicken%20Broccoli%20Rice%20Casserole_1.jpg" border="0" />
<p></p>I wish I would have taken a picture, but honestly we ate it too quickly for me to run to the office to get the camera... oops! Maybe I'll post a picture the next time I make it. This picture is from another blog: <a href="http://mrsbowles.wordpress.com/">http://mrsbowles.wordpress.com/</a>
<p></p><strong>Ingredients:</strong>
<p>1 tbsp olive oil
<p>1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
<p>1/2 tsp salt, divided
<p>1/4 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
<p>1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
<p>1/2 lb fresh asparagus spears, cut into 1 1/2-in. pieces (about 2 cups -- I substitute Broccoli)</p>
<p></p>2 cups milk
<p>1 cup chopped onion
<p>2 oz grated fresh Parmesan cheese (about 1/2 cup)
<p>2 garlic cloves, pressed
<p>1 tbsp lemon zest
<p>2 cups uncooked instant white rice</p>
<p>
<p></p><strong>Directions:</strong>
<p>1.Heat oil in Skillet over medium-high heat 1-3 minutes or until shimmering. Dice chicken into 1-in. pieces. Combine chicken, 1/4 tsp of the salt and black pepper in large bowl; toss to coat. Cook chicken 4-5 minutes or until no longer pink in center. Remove chicken from Skillet; set aside.</p>
<p>
<p>2.Return Skillet to heat; add soup, asparagus, milk, onion, cheese, garlic, zest and remaining 1/4 tsp salt. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 3 minutes. Stir in rice and chicken. Cover; let stand 5 minutes.
Yield: 6 servings </p>
<p></p>I'd love to help you bring dinner to your table in 30 minutes or less by hosting a cooking show. Visit my website to view all the great products you can get FREE for hosting!
<p>
</p><a href="http://www.pamperedchef.biz/bridothager">http://www.pamperedchef.biz/bridothager</a>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-11073380012164337222010-02-02T20:07:00.007-06:002010-02-02T20:34:21.730-06:00Love... the day is coming soon!Now that I'm married I love Valentine's Day even more. Could it be because I can count on having an amazing Valentine each year? I hope you have a wonderful Valentine in your life. <div><div></div>
<p><div>My MIL sent me a link to a very cute blog focused on Love. You can visit it to get some great ideas: <a href="http://www.loveactually-blog.blogspot.com/">http://www.loveactually-blog.blogspot.com/</a></div>
<p><div>There is a t-shirt that I think is pretty cute! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433835011905673186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 216px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ_6rQXt9dKTAROJbQZbjH-9A18Fm0_OvfX2uNlnctRcEFW5MOexT5m3F-7IMfrH3GILhRykT9OL02tgNCCzAK-AwYbPXziEYFg0zsTU6s_UdtQZ_vvMVhd2Se1FgrAd7ABnvPWU7rHC4/s320/t-shirts.jpg" border="0" /></div></div>
<p>Another other idea I want to pass on is from a friend of a friend of a friend. It's a pretty simple and cheap idea. The hard part for me will be remembering. The idea is to begin writing love letters to your husband for a year in a journal. Then at Christmas giving the journal to them. I think you could put a spin on this - do it for a month and give it to them for a special anniversary, the day you had your first date or the day you got engaged. </p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 428px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 288px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://pkp.sfu.ca/ojs/demo/present/public/journals/9/homepageImage.jpg" border="0" />
<p>There is only one happiness in life -- to love and to be loved. --George Sand</p>
<p></p>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-63245360446834889962010-01-24T14:42:00.008-06:002010-01-24T15:21:39.854-06:00Bathroom Destruction<a href="http://z.about.com/d/homerenovations/1/0/7/B/-/-/6.jpeg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 526px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 330px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://z.about.com/d/homerenovations/1/0/7/B/-/-/6.jpeg" /></a>
<div>It has to get worse before it can get better, right? Well this is not the picture of my bathroom. The pictures following are. I found this picture to serve as a sort of inspiration right now. I think this is the direction I am heading for this room. I want to make sure we have a somewhat "manly bathroom" in the house. What better place than the downstairs bathroom by the most manly symbol- The Big Screen? I have to warn you... it won't be very manly, but will incorporate brown or gray or blue when it's all said and done. </div>
<div>I really like this dark brown, but I'm not sure since there is no window in the bathroom... humm... what do you think? We will have a pedestal sink - no more plastic cabinet!</div>
<div></div>
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHicRnOe9rk5tTHvOe2PVXcKTzlOEsSPksBbRtlq0_t_9YoKQIvvBXaUItZHpRPZuklClYrTT2zAzwgqMU8A0G1sxI4_OjoM5LxJgK8LWIqojc9iTJAsc-qoPb6pYYo7PQoRGQVTfY7pE/s1600-h/bathroom-decor-country-theme.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430412913758339666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHicRnOe9rk5tTHvOe2PVXcKTzlOEsSPksBbRtlq0_t_9YoKQIvvBXaUItZHpRPZuklClYrTT2zAzwgqMU8A0G1sxI4_OjoM5LxJgK8LWIqojc9iTJAsc-qoPb6pYYo7PQoRGQVTfY7pE/s320/bathroom-decor-country-theme.jpg" /></a> My handyman "Stan" came over and got sucked into one of my projects. We took out the sink, toilet and 2 layers of vinyl flooring. I'm still removing a few more pieces of wallpaper and sanding the walls. </div>
<div></div>
<div>We still have the following tasks before we can put the finishing touches on the bathroom:</div>
<ul>
<li>Refinish the walls, trim and paint (maybe put up wainscoting??)</li>
<li>Install the laminate tile floor with grout. I think I'm going to stagger the tile this time - sort of a brick pattern</li>
<li>Install ceiling tiles</li></ul>
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYqlBDI2tizixqKS1K9HtHwd1JfkRVle25wFGNZJmAV4Kd2qYnaYEEIcc3kbqMz5a77_wMm6A6EJ38gOeoKuYnEHfIeImV6GR5-2LjLXouIW6cEm2wLykgRlb0KyToVvj1QwVpspmqqQA/s1600-h/Bathroom+Remodel+022.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430412343485311074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYqlBDI2tizixqKS1K9HtHwd1JfkRVle25wFGNZJmAV4Kd2qYnaYEEIcc3kbqMz5a77_wMm6A6EJ38gOeoKuYnEHfIeImV6GR5-2LjLXouIW6cEm2wLykgRlb0KyToVvj1QwVpspmqqQA/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+022.JPG" /></a> I have wall sconces to replace these hanging from the wall. I probably would not have chosen them, but since the electrical was there I'm going with it.
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtk5R6f6sY9tqpcUUWPfNUBBrbBMGlD4Mkkr9kS2JUImRXDo6Od5AaMrOu6KxRAWTxwYlE1WqgHFe8okihS1eM1mQQObUbkfCMjIjvl8SmI5nYR3GQdPKI_ZAk1q_wxbUf4aLnxOoT8GY/s1600-h/Bathroom+Remodel+020.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430411796918585250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtk5R6f6sY9tqpcUUWPfNUBBrbBMGlD4Mkkr9kS2JUImRXDo6Od5AaMrOu6KxRAWTxwYlE1WqgHFe8okihS1eM1mQQObUbkfCMjIjvl8SmI5nYR3GQdPKI_ZAk1q_wxbUf4aLnxOoT8GY/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+020.JPG" /></a> See that pesky wallpaper where the toilet tank was... why did they wallpaper behind the toilet?? My handyman used a plastic cup instead of a rag in the toilet hole (is that the technical term for it??). The white on the floor is the glue and backing of the floor... how will I get that off?
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2mcArgp7n5tV12EjTlOdUqsdgrVv1VeMO-0rQRrKg0f944FCartmvBjoKzU6S5dCtHHw4ZXz0DGi1-mGPYtxbRHSOx-1K44lTKqW6RsBXjMQXAKbjzcrSj-Y_Zru5mgZdiEkUinGL8KU/s1600-h/Bathroom+Remodel+019.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430411175800284322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2mcArgp7n5tV12EjTlOdUqsdgrVv1VeMO-0rQRrKg0f944FCartmvBjoKzU6S5dCtHHw4ZXz0DGi1-mGPYtxbRHSOx-1K44lTKqW6RsBXjMQXAKbjzcrSj-Y_Zru5mgZdiEkUinGL8KU/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+019.JPG" /></a> I think that is a pretty nasty toilet... black mold growing inside it... Let's all make a point never to let our toilets get that nasty.
<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwhyphenhyphengAlM4qKuZBCR1_j9vElpy0eOgVhKYgCmns975dZ5re1KkZvdd5w4ZsqE4F7wESWvM9aMbBROpvNYZL2SRHAiKsfJyK6rR2RFRIwJUht122F2yWm14PFqn9F7NCQGcAuVvcFhyKl44/s1600-h/Bathroom+Remodel+022.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430410800308301282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwhyphenhyphengAlM4qKuZBCR1_j9vElpy0eOgVhKYgCmns975dZ5re1KkZvdd5w4ZsqE4F7wESWvM9aMbBROpvNYZL2SRHAiKsfJyK6rR2RFRIwJUht122F2yWm14PFqn9F7NCQGcAuVvcFhyKl44/s320/Bathroom+Remodel+022.JPG" /></a> And again you see more traces of that pesky wallpaper. There are some places where the wallpaper took off the drywall. I guess we're going to be "muddin" and sanding some walls.
<div>The floor was great - 2 layers of vinyl stuck to cement floor. </div>
<div></div>
<div>I guess I'd better get back to getting the last of the wallpaper off so we can start on fixing the walls. The projects just never end. I'm in the middle of painting some dressers for another project. </div></div></div></div></div>Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5702584834899965551.post-79590596487938468722010-01-10T21:22:00.011-06:002010-01-10T21:46:16.356-06:00Make me an offer... bench<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje69Ioqye4Yvr5Kd9SUA-Ww6Srdakv8gHZTI7PmL3UVYCmvCB3lpnMy1p7X4OTmt2UkikYN1fSGOWJuzN31lQ1UOZV8RNrz89MuctaUKwK26I5DYqk4i9qZ5zy7qkS6fuCmIcHNqoHPTU/s1600-h/IMGP0613.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje69Ioqye4Yvr5Kd9SUA-Ww6Srdakv8gHZTI7PmL3UVYCmvCB3lpnMy1p7X4OTmt2UkikYN1fSGOWJuzN31lQ1UOZV8RNrz89MuctaUKwK26I5DYqk4i9qZ5zy7qkS6fuCmIcHNqoHPTU/s320/IMGP0613.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425319650597083458" border="0" /></a>
This poor bench was in the garbage pile at a make and offer sale. The same day I got a chest of drawers and this bench. I hope to have the chest done soon, but this project was much quicker for this weekend. I got both for $7, so I guess maybe I paid a dollar for this bench?
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEX_9cE3el-RiG-KRIiK4sMSZqRq25s1RYpxDlRYP3J6wnNoB8Sx7lN53rlxNqkC3JXs9puQ_gGg6LiewuyX-bNYm3Xvs8nnH2g1VfGbu_vsYyBR6LMVxQVy4dcZ-kia6zt2zNloCXoQE/s1600-h/IMGP0615.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEX_9cE3el-RiG-KRIiK4sMSZqRq25s1RYpxDlRYP3J6wnNoB8Sx7lN53rlxNqkC3JXs9puQ_gGg6LiewuyX-bNYm3Xvs8nnH2g1VfGbu_vsYyBR6LMVxQVy4dcZ-kia6zt2zNloCXoQE/s320/IMGP0615.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425318910176073410" border="0" /></a>
It had a caned top, but it was broken so I took it out. I had my handyman cut a piece of wood to fit in the hole so I could upholster the seat.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbN6BBVzNf7aparOr6_MTQpwMSuBbghVa_ylUL89VPA9VZfBws7YHn4i2NQvmg15xCLm-vHS8FXYD0ct7l8qpDel1Ra27qA7CLF6u8CDh7IGW3whOfLd6_V8IUhADIQ0p4XNag46UMVM/s1600-h/IMGP0616.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbN6BBVzNf7aparOr6_MTQpwMSuBbghVa_ylUL89VPA9VZfBws7YHn4i2NQvmg15xCLm-vHS8FXYD0ct7l8qpDel1Ra27qA7CLF6u8CDh7IGW3whOfLd6_V8IUhADIQ0p4XNag46UMVM/s320/IMGP0616.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425318698690188994" border="0" /></a>I sanded and then painted the wood with black spray paint leftover from another project.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbKaUlccxIi54ZOD9gmhZxQsePxsR1fCcUGBY1Qq9hsGuCRSPceKVoniyjmxRI54DIsAmkwXortzQ97ycnOGDjWQgsYhxp2BJYDEjYnp9rTk9_lexoPwvSmVwbIKpSMgs7vq6c37y_9I/s1600-h/IMGP0619.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbKaUlccxIi54ZOD9gmhZxQsePxsR1fCcUGBY1Qq9hsGuCRSPceKVoniyjmxRI54DIsAmkwXortzQ97ycnOGDjWQgsYhxp2BJYDEjYnp9rTk9_lexoPwvSmVwbIKpSMgs7vq6c37y_9I/s320/IMGP0619.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425318486158151106" border="0" /></a>Instead of buying an expensive piece of foam for the seat I used some quilt batting to form a cushion. I splurged on this fabric - $5 for a half yard.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_mUXYf0EcJq5-1jmTBbFLg0SbYRzLG-Dgb52DY0VE5e6uneWzgE0RH4ADuN7VLQw3XWopwRgzqUjJTnB_xRXOMj0fGVVkQWSl3WQsV3OOcsiYWMdkG3NI24qIDhUZja_YewV7O0tuDA/s1600-h/IMGP0621.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_mUXYf0EcJq5-1jmTBbFLg0SbYRzLG-Dgb52DY0VE5e6uneWzgE0RH4ADuN7VLQw3XWopwRgzqUjJTnB_xRXOMj0fGVVkQWSl3WQsV3OOcsiYWMdkG3NI24qIDhUZja_YewV7O0tuDA/s320/IMGP0621.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425318279922803394" border="0" /></a>I cut the fabric and folded the batting in multiple layers. Pulled the fabric around each side and used the staple gun to secure it. Make sure to pay special attention to the corners.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrz4diSfvpzXyEwR7cxMt3AnjK9tA7UO3-99kzm80vBFI2V5w2qvrqiur4tYpR125haIW_Pum_15VQHro-3rykhB1ussJoTBgbjZK5If3dbOEBqyyWXMX609pR7TwB4yQFNJ3ftHP5mBY/s1600-h/IMGP0623.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrz4diSfvpzXyEwR7cxMt3AnjK9tA7UO3-99kzm80vBFI2V5w2qvrqiur4tYpR125haIW_Pum_15VQHro-3rykhB1ussJoTBgbjZK5If3dbOEBqyyWXMX609pR7TwB4yQFNJ3ftHP5mBY/s320/IMGP0623.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425318013235529330" border="0" /></a>Here it is! It's slightly more puffy than I thought it would be, but still pretty cute for less than $10. It also provided me something to do on a Saturday night. I'm going to use it in the entry way to sit on when we put on shoes... so we don't have to site on the stairs.
<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJYui9ZJenY2ZPdi-2JgNcku854EioATf6ZAySSpIc8_xVv_Tamsa2QftNiE0MVIFqCL5wTHPCDjdNwDRhjKj6v5hVEzRNfBaZ0ixdXrFrTQNu9mV8qFxeLP3js5f0p14z8o4N7H4f1E/s1600-h/IMGP0627.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJYui9ZJenY2ZPdi-2JgNcku854EioATf6ZAySSpIc8_xVv_Tamsa2QftNiE0MVIFqCL5wTHPCDjdNwDRhjKj6v5hVEzRNfBaZ0ixdXrFrTQNu9mV8qFxeLP3js5f0p14z8o4N7H4f1E/s320/IMGP0627.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425317752610145330" border="0" /></a>What have I inspired you to do? I wish I could find something to inspire me to finish taking down the bathroom wallpaper... I guess I might have to wait until all the furniture in the basement is refinished - either way it all has to get done! :)Just Brihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15675252542309052945noreply@blogger.com0