tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79013570765089122492024-03-29T04:02:13.467-07:00everywhere beautiful at Little Mountain CreekChloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-8257542363192535072015-10-24T20:12:00.000-07:002015-10-24T20:59:51.305-07:00Cottage Kitchen Update On A Dime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I really love our new kitchen. It's more cottage-y, more country, more me! There are still a few big projects left in here that we will complete when we can afford it, the biggest being the floors. I have dreams of extra wide plank pine and hopefully we can get that done in the next year. </div>
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Here is what we started with. This was taken before we moved in.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVl3TOKUEPel5yRfDGGBgJS0AiM1N7p5qjCcmahoDPPPm4PXBEgjdecPD2zLpHokX_CMY9hZS0hCKd2M38kmgnIxYssm5IMeDJuHaErFVMCBwScdwYZ3GQq8VvFfY22isgTNTqA-FFlJB/s1600/IMG_3662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVl3TOKUEPel5yRfDGGBgJS0AiM1N7p5qjCcmahoDPPPm4PXBEgjdecPD2zLpHokX_CMY9hZS0hCKd2M38kmgnIxYssm5IMeDJuHaErFVMCBwScdwYZ3GQq8VvFfY22isgTNTqA-FFlJB/s640/IMG_3662.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here it is today.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TgHEee-hlc_buGzBII06Q-f87y7G2umTFdA_VyTfMwkU8jnPD9oIjRlP0KO78yJEgagm_QeH_tZlXdCLEtvhDRbfE3L_a7QHawh6i3f7JgM5tZX5h4kqbgrimjX5uUcZ6-GggJZDfThH/s1600/IMG_7632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TgHEee-hlc_buGzBII06Q-f87y7G2umTFdA_VyTfMwkU8jnPD9oIjRlP0KO78yJEgagm_QeH_tZlXdCLEtvhDRbfE3L_a7QHawh6i3f7JgM5tZX5h4kqbgrimjX5uUcZ6-GggJZDfThH/s640/IMG_7632.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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As you can see, one of the most awkward aspects of the old kitchen was this tiny upper cabinet that ended well before the base cabinets. We decided to put in open shelving to fill the gap. I had also originally planned to raise all the upper cabinets up about 6", but because of how they were attached to the walls it was impossible. </div>
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Even though it looks like we have had new countertops installed I swear we didn't! I spray painted the old ones with a textured spray paint and topped them with several coats of polycrylic (more info on our countertop makeover process coming soon). My husband put up the bead board backsplash and I painted it a neutral gray/beige</div>
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We took out the "bridge" that connected the upper cabinets above the window and added a pendant light. We also added new trim around the window</div>
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I kept all the original hinges and pulls. I absolutely love these cabinet pulls! They are so 60's and I think they fit the house perfectly. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwThtnzTqlVdu0Y50ND9yK07GmbrH93ZWRd6DDN4nlih-2kSl6YWaNVqp7FOKMuWqcuB5AddgOqaM6sc1F_7D7X07E4RObzwZ-jg4cFHb6NJny-NjaAPkAMjrwCWOaOXVPcBD9vgLQ2F4g/s1600/IMG_7619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwThtnzTqlVdu0Y50ND9yK07GmbrH93ZWRd6DDN4nlih-2kSl6YWaNVqp7FOKMuWqcuB5AddgOqaM6sc1F_7D7X07E4RObzwZ-jg4cFHb6NJny-NjaAPkAMjrwCWOaOXVPcBD9vgLQ2F4g/s640/IMG_7619.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
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We've had this Ikea bookcase for years and it fit perfectly in this space and adds lots more storage to our kitchen! We use the bottom cabinet as our pantry which has worked out very well. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACjdDoY1lUbOLGWn8mq0ujkd7s8lU9jHYEnZThBKGrTKYk5l7p4YnOA4IO5vdWBpKJLuSPbQKcIAqHikRQmoZmgTCoI83d4Q0_uyDzsJiTld99TzqQD8hbrdqsoGTqEfr2AjZt9gzgEYG/s1600/IMG_7639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACjdDoY1lUbOLGWn8mq0ujkd7s8lU9jHYEnZThBKGrTKYk5l7p4YnOA4IO5vdWBpKJLuSPbQKcIAqHikRQmoZmgTCoI83d4Q0_uyDzsJiTld99TzqQD8hbrdqsoGTqEfr2AjZt9gzgEYG/s640/IMG_7639.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I estimate that we've only spent about <b><u>$200</u></b> total on this kitchen and I think it looks pretty good for costing so little. </div>
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Besides replacing the floors we also plan on getting a new sink and faucet, and making a built in cubby for the fridge, so its not just floating off to the side. After those adjustments I think we will be all set!</div>
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Let's do one last before and after....</div>
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Before:</div>
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After:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6ao3wJrBNWiIPOFg9N0a6HnxazpcbJeV75_P-w9wrR4FEHLUSbBQwhAqbn7cq0lxi_Lic32DuBeZszNKW8Jn4k47t-8k9ijCBjuU-mzb829u-HPGtXuHGMOHZyTpuOQMv8zWpVT1uOo2/s1600/IMG_7622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6ao3wJrBNWiIPOFg9N0a6HnxazpcbJeV75_P-w9wrR4FEHLUSbBQwhAqbn7cq0lxi_Lic32DuBeZszNKW8Jn4k47t-8k9ijCBjuU-mzb829u-HPGtXuHGMOHZyTpuOQMv8zWpVT1uOo2/s640/IMG_7622.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU_Rbew5Sw-JQw0tL6cYrPC32kWKgOyZ4d_tt2rQtAVZBe28T51w-uWUUfzDp7wo5SQ4ksq1Zxgxaif9XPfSkdOlN2tKlKj7gO7NWLYAfuUdSEqYaMnLaSVd_p6IhY6YIsZyHj7Bub98e/s1600/IMG_3648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIM_GKTfurYjE_FJTC2GX-9YGkDFjXMXkPci8OgPph02R49By9pRj5afz9sNBM2G6ZSzJxTY8mbgr9nNYWPPiUsgdlkx9N-j8H7E3XnxbnPXuwBoYeRQco8eSA0W8toUKCzyxif_IBUKf/s1600/IMG_7622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIM_GKTfurYjE_FJTC2GX-9YGkDFjXMXkPci8OgPph02R49By9pRj5afz9sNBM2G6ZSzJxTY8mbgr9nNYWPPiUsgdlkx9N-j8H7E3XnxbnPXuwBoYeRQco8eSA0W8toUKCzyxif_IBUKf/s1600/IMG_7622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU_Rbew5Sw-JQw0tL6cYrPC32kWKgOyZ4d_tt2rQtAVZBe28T51w-uWUUfzDp7wo5SQ4ksq1Zxgxaif9XPfSkdOlN2tKlKj7gO7NWLYAfuUdSEqYaMnLaSVd_p6IhY6YIsZyHj7Bub98e/s1600/IMG_3648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU_Rbew5Sw-JQw0tL6cYrPC32kWKgOyZ4d_tt2rQtAVZBe28T51w-uWUUfzDp7wo5SQ4ksq1Zxgxaif9XPfSkdOlN2tKlKj7gO7NWLYAfuUdSEqYaMnLaSVd_p6IhY6YIsZyHj7Bub98e/s1600/IMG_3648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU_Rbew5Sw-JQw0tL6cYrPC32kWKgOyZ4d_tt2rQtAVZBe28T51w-uWUUfzDp7wo5SQ4ksq1Zxgxaif9XPfSkdOlN2tKlKj7gO7NWLYAfuUdSEqYaMnLaSVd_p6IhY6YIsZyHj7Bub98e/s1600/IMG_3648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><br />
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Thanks for stopping by! Be sure to keep an eye out for more updates on our new home!<br />
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-Chloe<br />
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Stop by my Etsy shop for rustic handmade art and decor.
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LittleMountainCreek?ref=offsite_badges&utm_source=sellers&utm_medium=badges&utm_campaign=en_isell_1"><img height="200" src="//img0.etsystatic.com/site-assets/badges/en/en_isell_1.png" width="200" /></a>Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-46515348364280031292015-10-20T19:46:00.000-07:002015-10-20T21:36:06.919-07:00Choosing to Live Small One year ago our family was looking to move back to Utah, but this time we wanted something a little different. We wanted to live somewhere rural and somewhere that had cooler summers. We looked at houses for only one day before finding the perfect fit for us.<br />
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We found a little old cottage in the mountains and so far it has been heaven! Don't get me wrong, this house has definitely been a project. We've accomplished a lot but we still have quite a ways to go. I'm excited to share the progress we've made so far, but first I'd like to share something else I've learned this past year.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Smaller is Better.</span><br />
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I said it, and actually lots of people are saying it lately. I just want to share the reasons why I feel this way.<br />
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Before we downsized I was nervous to make that switch so I was always trying to find blog posts about this topic to ease my worries, but I found very few that were helpful. Most were about couples with no kids living in tiny houses (which is great and all but it's not helping me) or about families forced to temporarily downsize because of financial trouble. I wasn't planning on living in a small house until we were "back on our feet", I was choosing to live small, for good.<br />
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The idea of downsizing started when we were living in Arizona. We would often take trips up to towns at higher elevation (and more importantly cooler temps) and our favorite place to stay was a tiny a-frame cabin in the mountains. It had one bedroom plus a loft for the kids, a miniature kitchen that was open to a living room/dinning room, and one bathroom. Instead of feeling cramped, it felt comfortable. We were always so happy there and would just think "THIS is all we need!". If you haven't had this same epiphany here are some points to consider:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. You will acquire less junk.</span><br />
With limited space you really think twice about what objects are important to you and what you can live without.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. You will spend more time with your family!</span><br />
This is a big one for me. With one living room and no playroom we do everything together, it's that simple. We all can still retreat to our bedrooms when needed, but our kitchen, dining room, and living room are all one space so that's usually where the party is.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. You will spend less time cleaning!</span><br />
I didn't realize how much less time it would take to clean my smaller house. I can do a standard deep clean (bathroom, kitchen, vacuuming, dusting, change bedding, and tidying up every room) in 2 hours! If that doesn't sell you on a smaller house I don't know what will.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. You will stay more organized.</span><br />
We all share one small bathroom and it is never left a mess because that is just not an option. With a single vanity with basically zero counter space there just isn't room for anything to be left out. We LOVE our tiny bathroom! (nearly) Everything in our house has a place because there isn't any extra space to shove items aside.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. You will save money.</span><br />
This one is obvious. Less square footage costs less than more square footage. A smaller mortgage will make you happier! Less stress and more money to do fun things like travel with your family! And let's not forget about all the money you will save on utilities.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. It's better for the planet.</span><br />
Enough said.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. You will be happier!</span><br />
Okay, this is not a guarantee but it has been true for us and I think there is a good chance it will be true for you too.<br />
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If living small is something you've been considering I hope this has helped you to take the next step!<br />
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-Chloe<br />
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<br />Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-16693800086255707272013-11-17T14:50:00.001-08:002013-11-17T14:51:07.745-08:00Instructions To Build A Gingerbread House<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center; text-autospace: none;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13pt;"> Have you ever wanted to built your own gingerbread house from scratch but felt too overwhelmed by just the thought of it? My goal today is to break the process down into (semi) simple steps that anyone can follow. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 17px;">Whether</span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13pt;"> you </span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 17px;">want</span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13pt;"> to make </span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 17px;">something</span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13pt;"> elaborate or just keep it simple, you can have the outcome you want and start a new holiday tradition with your family. </span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">(To get some ideas and see the houses I have made you can check out <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-love-affair-with-gingerbread.html">this post</a>.)</span></span></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbz7MokBK-982Ionw708H5THtuW306hhie3H6qoUa-7VUePTFNbaB3zV1mhnix-jpeyZxJ7rSRFy6Ak5vDCW8yHwpIK0SQ7YjBsWQvF1uyv1kpYcqSJ9MCZ-Pt-ZVV0T8zTZqVRlDdAX9a/s1600/photo-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbz7MokBK-982Ionw708H5THtuW306hhie3H6qoUa-7VUePTFNbaB3zV1mhnix-jpeyZxJ7rSRFy6Ak5vDCW8yHwpIK0SQ7YjBsWQvF1uyv1kpYcqSJ9MCZ-Pt-ZVV0T8zTZqVRlDdAX9a/s320/photo-4.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"> The first Step is to decide how you
want your gingerbread house to look. I like to look up classic styles of houses
online to get ideas. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Second, it is a good idea to sketch a
picture of the house so you can decide exactly what you want to build. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"> You will now need to create templates
from cardboard for your gingerbread house walls and roof. Don’t forget smaller
details such as doors, front steps, etc. You can assemble the cardboard pieces
with scotch tape to make sure everything is the correct size. If you are making
a particularly large house it is a good idea to make an additional side wall or
two to be placed in the center of the house to help carry the weight of the
roof.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Gingerbread Recipe<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1/2 cup sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1/2 cup margarine<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1/2 cup dark molasses<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1/4 cup cold water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">2 1/2 cups flour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">3/4 tsp salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1/2 tsp baking soda<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">2 tbsp powdered ginger<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1 tsp cloves<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1 tsp allspice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Cream margarine and sugar well. Blend
in molasses and water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Sift together remaining ingredients
and blend together until dough forms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Knead for a couple of minutes, adding
a little more flour if it is too sticky.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Chill 2 to 3 hours. Depending on the
size of your house you will need several batches of this dough. I have used as
many as 15 in my largest house.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Roll dough out about 1/4 inch
thickness directly onto parchment paper or a baking sheet. You should not roll
out and then transfer the pieces to a cookie sheet as they tend to lose their
shapes in the transfer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7yHsqpPIOrz5ytUPMGH1GLiBdStLNjxhjJsYHHsuagVmollb3M31-BqrEmL3JbiL6R-lom6v11gxxrMvZ56R-rPISPobHwn_I-G72grmxNy7vn9LWKRniuG3Q0Oa9p3O0Pp-DDTy7HFr1/s1600/IMG_0362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7yHsqpPIOrz5ytUPMGH1GLiBdStLNjxhjJsYHHsuagVmollb3M31-BqrEmL3JbiL6R-lom6v11gxxrMvZ56R-rPISPobHwn_I-G72grmxNy7vn9LWKRniuG3Q0Oa9p3O0Pp-DDTy7HFr1/s320/IMG_0362.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Use your templates as a guide to cut
the dough into the desired shapes. The best way I have found to get straight
edges is to use a pizza cutter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Windows and doors can be cut out at
this stage as well if you plan to<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">make candy windows for an internally
lit house. The back of the house<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">should be plain with a hole large
enough to insert a set of mini lights.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">The number of lights depends on the
size of your house. A set of 100 is usually enough for quite a large house.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Bake at 350 degrees F. These pieces
should be baked as long as possible without burning as the drier they are, the
stronger the pieces will be (upto 25 min for very large pieces). Aluminum
baking sheets are best for this, preferably the ones without rims.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Trim edges and windows as necessary
while the gingerbread is still hot. Straight edges are a must. The gingerbread can change shape slightly while baking. I like to set my
template on top of the gingerbread piece as soon as it comes out of the oven and run the pizza cutter along the edges
making sure everything is exactly the right size.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Cool on the baking sheet or another
completely flat surface. Prepare the pieces for making the candy windows by
placing them on cardboard covered in a few layers of plastic wrap, or better
yet, silicone baking mats. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Candy Windows:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">3 cups sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1 1/2 cups white corn syrup<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1 cup water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">*Combine sugar, syrup and water in a
large saucepan with a candy thermometer. Cook over medium high heat until the
temperature reaches at least 260 degrees. The mixture will come to a boil
quickly, but then it will need to simmer for a while in order to get hot
enough. The temperature is critical because the hotter the sugar gets, the
harder the candy will set up later. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">*Pour into the window spaces of your
baked gingerbread. Re-heat gently if the mixture becomes too thick to pour
easily. Be very careful while pouring hot candy, you can sustain a very serious
burn if you spill it on your skin. It’s best to keep the kids out of the
kitchen for this part.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Royal Icing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">It is very important to use grease
free utensils and glass or metal bowl when making this icing. This icing dries
very hard and acts as the glue to hold your house together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To cover your roof in "snow",
the consistency will be somewhere in the middle where soft peaks form but it
does not run. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Royal Icing Recipe<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">4 cups (440 grams) confectioners'
(powdered or icing) sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">3 large egg whites, room temperature<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Whip all ingredients together until
very stiff and fluffy, preferably with the whisk attachment if your mixer has
one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NTZq3rQIU04ieDNmdPWiMcyoyNPNE-j9_Hu82y7s6i1d2qhmzxWfa9wZuSB6Dfw9FgzWWScyRDHS82Z8RiTsY-Ajb6Zho7HDeaU487vuAGi9IdtKAXIOtegrNIEmgHxPKgeswnxfvEYe/s1600/IMG_0364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NTZq3rQIU04ieDNmdPWiMcyoyNPNE-j9_Hu82y7s6i1d2qhmzxWfa9wZuSB6Dfw9FgzWWScyRDHS82Z8RiTsY-Ajb6Zho7HDeaU487vuAGi9IdtKAXIOtegrNIEmgHxPKgeswnxfvEYe/s320/IMG_0364.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">If you wish to "paint" your
house, you can do so by outlining all the edges of your pieces in Royal Icing
using a number 4 piping tip. This includes the entire perimeter of the piece
plus around any windows and doors. Trace the outline twice with Royal Icing to
double the height of your outline. Next, color more royal icing with food coloring
and add enough water ( or even better spoonfuls of egg white), a TBSP at a
time, to the royal icing so that it will pour into your outline easily but not
so thin that it will be too runny (I "painted" the back of my house first to be sure my icing was the right </span><span style="font-size: 17px;">consistency). </span><span style="font-size: 13pt;">Leave this to dry for a couple of days to a week.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQNJXhBnCBwIl1vDFYAnfcxCdsRNwfX5QYcpD69FjfZAFeo9bipfxruDFKYlWciGP79gsUckBhxd1MIYAenz_PksOC5YUjPOh-_15Tzz69ZLhvwRWR-Xn698rjlZ26S6YdgWoFZmuM8OOf/s1600/IMG_0411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQNJXhBnCBwIl1vDFYAnfcxCdsRNwfX5QYcpD69FjfZAFeo9bipfxruDFKYlWciGP79gsUckBhxd1MIYAenz_PksOC5YUjPOh-_15Tzz69ZLhvwRWR-Xn698rjlZ26S6YdgWoFZmuM8OOf/s320/IMG_0411.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">At this stage you may want to
decorate your windows with icing. You can create molding or shutters or any
other details you would like! This in another part where looking at pictures of
real houses can really help. I like to add wreaths (using a star tip) to some
of the windows at this point too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">You are now ready to assemble your
house! An extra set of hands may be helpful but it is not essential (I have
always done it on my own). A batch of very stiff Royal Icing is needed for
"glue". Using a #12 tip, pipe royal icing onto both edges to be
joined and on the bottom where it will adhere to the base, and push them
together. Run your finger along the inside corners to spread the icing tightly
into the corners. This will greatly help the stability of the structure. You
can even pipe extra Royal icing into these inside corners to add extra “glue”.
This is very necessary in larger houses. Continue until the outside walls (and
internal supports, if any) are in place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Let these pieces dry for several
hours or overnight before attaching the roof sections in the same way. Don’t
rush to get the roof on, the whole thing can collapse if the "glued"
walls are not completely dry. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Finally! This is when the real fun
begins! Decorate your house however you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I usually like to try for a realistic house as opposed to a
more traditional candy covered one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">You can get creative with what you
use to decorate your house. I like to walk through the candy, cookie, snack,
and cereal isles and just browse looking for anything that could work. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Some things I have found that work
particularly well are;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 17px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Courier New;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Malt-o-Meal brand golden grams for roof shingles<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Courier New;"> </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Licorice Nibs (cut in half) for bricks</span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Pretzel sticks for fences</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Marzipan is wonderful for other
little details like snowmen or anything else you can think up!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEy1tgdvRi14E3O1CQwO8RSxaJpgPHw5R-JuVThp_dBWSGU53gMLKvZNVm7XI6gXnugSuDtoiJ35P370CcjrjzK_U76Wsg19eJMAGW20ZzM2KOTEQ-KnZDXr0Rr4dnoZ-UsJ5JRB-FCw1Q/s1600/IMG_4924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEy1tgdvRi14E3O1CQwO8RSxaJpgPHw5R-JuVThp_dBWSGU53gMLKvZNVm7XI6gXnugSuDtoiJ35P370CcjrjzK_U76Wsg19eJMAGW20ZzM2KOTEQ-KnZDXr0Rr4dnoZ-UsJ5JRB-FCw1Q/s200/IMG_4924.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPerPtWurUVp4N-1abklOIfr1BUbGgfBL37LooC-VcknYJOikUlR5pbXq10dYpIxHK2gEImf2rkFMU8_Ro2yED1nVmkg4iAEoWZs4XxANR7lU5CHD1gr2WqmlRIEJk8FtgDTYPdvQBQng/s1600/IMG_4913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPerPtWurUVp4N-1abklOIfr1BUbGgfBL37LooC-VcknYJOikUlR5pbXq10dYpIxHK2gEImf2rkFMU8_Ro2yED1nVmkg4iAEoWZs4XxANR7lU5CHD1gr2WqmlRIEJk8FtgDTYPdvQBQng/s200/IMG_4913.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">If you like, you can landscape your house
with Royal icing trees. You can do this by using a star tip to pipe green royal
icing onto sugar ice cream cones. I usually cheat a little with my trees. I make cone shapes in </span><span style="font-size: 17px;">different</span><span style="font-size: 13pt;"> sizes out of paper and apply the icing right over the paper. I have read that you can use a foil covered cone and when the icing has </span><span style="font-size: 17px;">hardened</span><span style="font-size: 13pt;"> you can remove the foil so you are left with an icing only tree, but that has never worked for me. The icing dries so hard and </span><span style="font-size: 17px;">sticks</span><span style="font-size: 13pt;"> to everything it touches like cement! This is my one and only "cheat", if you know of a way to make 100% edible trees I'd love to hear it!</span></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">When you need colored icing (for
trees, wreaths, etc.), I prefer to make them with white icing. Then when
completely dried, I paint them with food coloring using a small paint brush.
Mixing the food coloring directly into the icing makes it runnier which results
in everything looking kind of melted. Dipping your brush in water from time to time adds more depth to the color and just makes it look prettier. This same technique can be used with
anything you make out of marzipan.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0aVxPmdV7bnVbH0LFCeEvGrNFufxhNktkM4EyCspnOhXAOwkJmrzf0FOheI8AN-S3GLk26RbIbFVwXC6FYJr9Xu5cJL971QOHXxhCR28JvWO3Ou0eywWcOdC5SujMv5XUfqbNO2pE48Fx/s1600/IMG_4923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0aVxPmdV7bnVbH0LFCeEvGrNFufxhNktkM4EyCspnOhXAOwkJmrzf0FOheI8AN-S3GLk26RbIbFVwXC6FYJr9Xu5cJL971QOHXxhCR28JvWO3Ou0eywWcOdC5SujMv5XUfqbNO2pE48Fx/s640/IMG_4923.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
I hope you can now feel ready to attempt a gingerbread house of your own!<br />
If you have any advise that I did not mention here I'd love to hear it!<br />
<br />
-Chloe<br />
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<br />Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-68927508543529277102013-11-16T23:15:00.000-08:002014-12-16T12:54:38.135-08:00A Love Affair with Gingerbread I have a little secret I have yet to share with the blogging world. It may be a little strange and make me seem like an old lady but here I go, I am going to confess..... I have an obsession with gingerbread. To be more specific, gingerbread pieces glued together with icing to form a house. Wow, what a load of my mind to finally have that out in the open! Now we can get down to business.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0aVxPmdV7bnVbH0LFCeEvGrNFufxhNktkM4EyCspnOhXAOwkJmrzf0FOheI8AN-S3GLk26RbIbFVwXC6FYJr9Xu5cJL971QOHXxhCR28JvWO3Ou0eywWcOdC5SujMv5XUfqbNO2pE48Fx/s1600/IMG_4923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0aVxPmdV7bnVbH0LFCeEvGrNFufxhNktkM4EyCspnOhXAOwkJmrzf0FOheI8AN-S3GLk26RbIbFVwXC6FYJr9Xu5cJL971QOHXxhCR28JvWO3Ou0eywWcOdC5SujMv5XUfqbNO2pE48Fx/s200/IMG_4923.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
Tonight as I was searching online for pictures of cute houses that I could replicate for my gingerbread house this year it dawned on me, I want to share what I have learned about gingerbread houses the past few years with all of you! It is November 16th and I feel I am running a little behind schedule to get this gingerbread house done in time for the beginning of the Christmas season. I first attempted a gingerbread house 5 years ago and I immediately fell in love with every aspect of building one. I have made one each year since and I learn so much with each one.<br />
<br />
In this post I will share a little about each of the gingerbread houses I have made. For detailed instructions and recipes go to <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2013/11/instructions-to-build-gingerbread-house.html?spref=fb">this post</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Year One:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Pf8jjw54zZo1_PvG463Nv6GGG4_JiWq1F8eyKTADD4JJyFM1Id9MctcZSqYmzk3Lte9MZzvtUXYHW9hnhR0vjyJ6y7-kqNhUfz2Xlb528FFLoaEVEjnofMnkGsAZTIo11_X9AHmBlovP/s1600/IMG_0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Pf8jjw54zZo1_PvG463Nv6GGG4_JiWq1F8eyKTADD4JJyFM1Id9MctcZSqYmzk3Lte9MZzvtUXYHW9hnhR0vjyJ6y7-kqNhUfz2Xlb528FFLoaEVEjnofMnkGsAZTIo11_X9AHmBlovP/s320/IMG_0071.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I started with a very basic shape. It only took a couple of days from start to finish but I was so excited to make another, more complex house...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrwRZwzDYxY_bDBABTHv3Hun7ZLLIQ1uVyMUzpz819Uo9vUmDujqtfxQAKVT-_VbBXnix_j_LOPOEm1ynsTRVcneeH6UE3OQR9rHQkkAvl0g7vRNWqxBO3z7gTZ4nz0CT95Fh9kmoGA9N/s1600/IMG_0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrwRZwzDYxY_bDBABTHv3Hun7ZLLIQ1uVyMUzpz819Uo9vUmDujqtfxQAKVT-_VbBXnix_j_LOPOEm1ynsTRVcneeH6UE3OQR9rHQkkAvl0g7vRNWqxBO3z7gTZ4nz0CT95Fh9kmoGA9N/s320/IMG_0075.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Year Two:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQyl9Sf9ZImiTpY_HudtevDED1bMXfjCBulQ59I-n0aEGYob1W6AUht1t7f-U3JDUfozXeEoY0IMbUbQ8VOmEYNe5TVTJabOhQxitwBbRtTcwM3vb5O6T6woXn2ga7cfoh-UR9TmUHt6m/s1600/IMG_0365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQyl9Sf9ZImiTpY_HudtevDED1bMXfjCBulQ59I-n0aEGYob1W6AUht1t7f-U3JDUfozXeEoY0IMbUbQ8VOmEYNe5TVTJabOhQxitwBbRtTcwM3vb5O6T6woXn2ga7cfoh-UR9TmUHt6m/s400/IMG_0365.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIQjUQ_EDl4NmEpRJJ9mB4ZkF1ASrQE-_OOlqKqI9KVFPcRAcLPdZiEm92stINt976Aj5vJrxVHavLhoBZWUYZG5maW5Oz3uYD4ZaTeC3AxoHfQiJQNcc13kBu9rl6FtMChCEE-uFhRSs/s1600/IMG_0368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIQjUQ_EDl4NmEpRJJ9mB4ZkF1ASrQE-_OOlqKqI9KVFPcRAcLPdZiEm92stINt976Aj5vJrxVHavLhoBZWUYZG5maW5Oz3uYD4ZaTeC3AxoHfQiJQNcc13kBu9rl6FtMChCEE-uFhRSs/s320/IMG_0368.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
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So excited in fact that I couldn't wait until the next christmas so I made this haunted halloween house. This house was a ton of fun but after spending so much energy on it I was completely burnt out and didn't make a Christmas one that year! Which is the reason I have only made Christmas houses since.<br />
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This was my first attempt at "sugar glass" windows. I didn't get the outcome I wanted until just last year. Hopefully my instructions will help you make it work more easily.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdAjCUyUIFl_v2jRpVZAr85bXUQBHSvlM4LVL4AjFdUeJHSPC7f5XXp5obgLqXjg21518S72binkFkkOD_pYzGD2ug_ZxdWSmLPFtyGr4DkmLDT6b4r1vaEkh-bw-nTskLaAUa7AbaJI1t/s1600/IMG_0371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdAjCUyUIFl_v2jRpVZAr85bXUQBHSvlM4LVL4AjFdUeJHSPC7f5XXp5obgLqXjg21518S72binkFkkOD_pYzGD2ug_ZxdWSmLPFtyGr4DkmLDT6b4r1vaEkh-bw-nTskLaAUa7AbaJI1t/s320/IMG_0371.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLQRoQ7r7oS-m5qEdhIc9TP-EabyHb5eDZTjFBhe36RY10khqcq4BZFbvNnH2FS7ZbkR7PZOo3mMSlYJ4iNo6ER0suw7EFWZGrUeVA8Gk6gBej2uzO03itVKoGq8jtGQV43lAnX1EnPZu/s1600/IMG_0373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLQRoQ7r7oS-m5qEdhIc9TP-EabyHb5eDZTjFBhe36RY10khqcq4BZFbvNnH2FS7ZbkR7PZOo3mMSlYJ4iNo6ER0suw7EFWZGrUeVA8Gk6gBej2uzO03itVKoGq8jtGQV43lAnX1EnPZu/s400/IMG_0373.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a> The pumpkins, tombstone, and noose are marzipan and the grass is coconut dyed with food coloring.<br />
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I places a flickering light inside the house to turn on at night. Spooky!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Year Three:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQp88YSup1MfoG-OGFqiCRr9UeOWI8drLwtWn_LV7OYonWoPTF9ZDOI27R6ubPc7PgRgRrxZ3lAKBRXRBMjWzjam4bEArn3GBfyU8OqjPZyNzfdLoaCKQLjQ62kn7sbx4BHOM3gr5a9FKL/s1600/IMG_1882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQp88YSup1MfoG-OGFqiCRr9UeOWI8drLwtWn_LV7OYonWoPTF9ZDOI27R6ubPc7PgRgRrxZ3lAKBRXRBMjWzjam4bEArn3GBfyU8OqjPZyNzfdLoaCKQLjQ62kn7sbx4BHOM3gr5a9FKL/s640/IMG_1882.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a> This house was a monster! I think all of the houses photograph a little small but you really cannot tell how huge this one really was. At about 40 inches it was taking up half of our dining table!<br />
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The windows are a little better but still not totally transparent.<br />
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It is lit with a string of white Christmas lights places inside.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Year 4:</span><br />
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This is my most recent house. It was the first time I "painted" the house with icing and I absolutely loved it!<br />
The "glass" windows turned out perfectly so you are able to see the Christmas tree in the front window.<br />
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You may have noticed that I have a thing for pretzel fences, licorice nib bricks, and cereal roof shingles. What can I say, I know what I like. Unless I find something I think works better you will most likely see all of those things on my gingerbread house this year.<br />
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Those are the 4 house I have completed and I can't wait to get working on a 5th!<br />
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I hope I have gotten some of you excited to try making your own gingerbread house this year! I am happy to answer any questions.<br />
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-Chloe<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>********UPDATE!********</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Christmas at The von Trapp's</span><br />
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For my 5th house I decided to replicate the home of the von Trapps in the movie The Sound of Music. This was the first time I made a replica of a real house and it proved to be lots of fun getting all the details right. <br />
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Everything (except the interior lights) is edible. The structure is gingerbread that has been "painted" with royal icing. The front door and surround are marzipan, the white trim is fondant, the roof tiles are made out of Bid Red gum, and the wreath and garland are made out of royal icing.<br />
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<br />Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-21326550991012855362013-09-24T12:16:00.000-07:002013-09-24T12:16:28.129-07:00House for Five feature!I want to send a huge THANK YOU over to Deme at <a href="http://www.houseforfive.com/2013/09/reader-spot-nautical-playroom.html">House for Five</a> for featuring our playroom makeover today! If you haven't already, pop on over and check out her fabulous blog. It is one of my favorites, you won't be disappointed!Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-72175934281608496422013-09-21T16:31:00.000-07:002013-09-21T17:47:04.143-07:00Taking on the Laundry RoomI recently tried to spruce up our laundry room. It is a place we see often and use constantly. In addition to doing laundry, we also use the space for storage and as a mudroom. Yes, this tiny space is pulling triple duty! Which is why I felt something had to be done to save my sanity.<br />
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Here is our laundry room when we first moved into our new house...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7ey4MiC82QE0JyLG6GIpuSRuccVK6_kCF2c_rBGtHqxFAjpIq6qc6Ofw6Ls_zf9kysY001PctALp8iWuOeAiyL0bELPjng7iyyKDT7z9ocZBXLMRVvrkD-5YdLc8aTOMQPD6onlcBjo5/s1600/IMG_5227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7ey4MiC82QE0JyLG6GIpuSRuccVK6_kCF2c_rBGtHqxFAjpIq6qc6Ofw6Ls_zf9kysY001PctALp8iWuOeAiyL0bELPjng7iyyKDT7z9ocZBXLMRVvrkD-5YdLc8aTOMQPD6onlcBjo5/s640/IMG_5227.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljCpz4bNJwyYO7uNn7OvTjLyjzsSqbq-7i1UA2egCKHJr9Kj_5trXXC22WlgjuCogB7OpupCErPaVkGPE28lYcao1d3MCesAtNX44MSZ-9PBKLfuNy_NoUBXSbK9iCOCRJnzkEyB6P5uR/s1600/IMG_5229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljCpz4bNJwyYO7uNn7OvTjLyjzsSqbq-7i1UA2egCKHJr9Kj_5trXXC22WlgjuCogB7OpupCErPaVkGPE28lYcao1d3MCesAtNX44MSZ-9PBKLfuNy_NoUBXSbK9iCOCRJnzkEyB6P5uR/s640/IMG_5229.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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And here is our laundry room today....</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1UhLmxCOo28jTk1xMGVyZjTmvFgRQ66-ctpTvtQkZgaJZmFCXyJFsB21cbZeAXIkJm8fofTOU7jxNuDykPoUr1a0ofCJn_D_2L08i7BSG1rS5_u47R4G1WIvoEQOGupe1njpNjgi-HLHW/s1600/IMG_5810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1UhLmxCOo28jTk1xMGVyZjTmvFgRQ66-ctpTvtQkZgaJZmFCXyJFsB21cbZeAXIkJm8fofTOU7jxNuDykPoUr1a0ofCJn_D_2L08i7BSG1rS5_u47R4G1WIvoEQOGupe1njpNjgi-HLHW/s640/IMG_5810.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">One of my very first blog posts was on <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2012/06/hall-closet-make-over-will-make-you.html">organizing our hall closet</a> at our old house. Most of these bins (along with the junk inside them) were from that closet makeover. Since I already had containers, organizing was easy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">I made new labels for the bins, hung some vintage hooks on the wall that I already had, and installed the new key hooks. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyzh0FMb_8NEDyYG5XX3CtgTEvfXr_aCAOa-9c5n6uoVsyGapRG9ANMVUSq49_45Jk5MJiA2ECj2i6uYmI5PoXiboeBvidavcxU8RuQEW_hi62tXvjS7BFmnMUlWLHqVSqJGQA_mkRjF0/s1600/IMG_5781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyzh0FMb_8NEDyYG5XX3CtgTEvfXr_aCAOa-9c5n6uoVsyGapRG9ANMVUSq49_45Jk5MJiA2ECj2i6uYmI5PoXiboeBvidavcxU8RuQEW_hi62tXvjS7BFmnMUlWLHqVSqJGQA_mkRjF0/s400/IMG_5781.jpg" width="266" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ysIz1m3qgMKOzqZL3VkyPwceTSW63zjvXQSB-eNilwYrKm6V4q_B_o_ptwuAmDY2zadmbuCe7H5UwUcW1AHCbCMrEEB_K84XfE0RIc2TF2c9dQrpLPcOQd8eUyHWd-oh2e0PKvPWCCNc/s1600/IMG_5804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ysIz1m3qgMKOzqZL3VkyPwceTSW63zjvXQSB-eNilwYrKm6V4q_B_o_ptwuAmDY2zadmbuCe7H5UwUcW1AHCbCMrEEB_K84XfE0RIc2TF2c9dQrpLPcOQd8eUyHWd-oh2e0PKvPWCCNc/s400/IMG_5804.jpg" width="218" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> The other side of the room is the laundry space </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Since we don't own our house painting wasn't really an option but the walls desperately needed some color. I found some cute contact paper for a good price and I think it gives the room just the look I was going for. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I used four galvanized buckets on the shelf. One for Oxy clean, one for detergent, one for trash, and the last one for extra supplies I buy in bulk, such as dryer sheets and spray 'n wash. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You may recognize the chalkboard labels from my playroom makeover. When I bought them they came in a package of 12, and at the time I thought that was way too many, but they were cheap so I bought them anyway. Well I have used almost all the chalkboard labels now, I love them so much I may need to order more!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Above the dryer are these small buckets I found in the dollar section at Target. I think they are so cute. They keep clothes pins, mesh wash bags, and dryer sheets handy</span></div>
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Over the washer I hung three knobs that hold a measuring cup I use for bleach, Spray 'n Wash, and a jar of flowers because this space just needed some pink!</div>
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This pretty white metal basket is also from Target. It holds our bleach and fabric softener. </div>
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I think my favorite part of the room is the quote I typed up and pinned to the basket. It helps me smile when doing laundry, which is a miracle in itself!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXON8PFI2OjIHgZsya3zzMh0_oj4IwuOe0rE7FdskzZBOmvJyJ-0kQJbHyVT2wPzIDrNFr-9MPbxg4Ls-gLGmS-XUoIAqo-pBvjI8xr3F2mZ0Z5B2mLqmwfL9gjVJ6HGy4htHNcz1CvZUw/s1600/IMG_5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXON8PFI2OjIHgZsya3zzMh0_oj4IwuOe0rE7FdskzZBOmvJyJ-0kQJbHyVT2wPzIDrNFr-9MPbxg4Ls-gLGmS-XUoIAqo-pBvjI8xr3F2mZ0Z5B2mLqmwfL9gjVJ6HGy4htHNcz1CvZUw/s640/IMG_5805.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Probably the most helpful part of the room is this little "Guide to the Laundry Room". Seriously, I can't be the only one who is dumbfounded by the care symbols on clothes, right? Well, confusion be gone! I now know that a triangle means I can use bleach and that a circle means dry clean only!</div>
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Let's take one last look at the before and after....</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laundry Space "Before"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Storage Space/Mudroom "Before"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storage Space/Mudroom "After"</td></tr>
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Thanks for stopping by today!</div>
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-Chloe</div>
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Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-14605599343908721462013-08-30T14:02:00.000-07:002013-08-30T14:02:53.957-07:00Garden Twine InitialMy little guy has something new in his room that he absolutely loves! If you came to our house he would love to show it to you and tell you that "E is for Everett".<br />
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This was an easy project and I (as usual) made it all out of things I had on hand.<br />
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I started by cutting the letter out of cardboard with a razor blade. Then I just tightly wrapped the twine around. This is just simple garden twine used to tie up plants but I have used it several times when decorating our house.<br />
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In the picture you can see I began wrapping the letter vertically first but that was a mistake. I had to undo it and start over wrapping the twine horizontally, then wrap vertically. When I got to the end of the letter I would just hot glue the last bit of twine to the back. </div>
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The frame was an ugly color of oak so I painted it white, and the gingham fabric was left over from when I made my son's curtains. I hot glued the E onto the fabric but still thought it needed a little something extra, so I added the red ribbon on top. The ribbon is just for decoration, it is not actually holding the weight of the frame. </div>
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Here it is finished hanging in his room!</div>
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I feel like I say this all the time, but I really really love making things out of stuff I already have, and also making things up as I go along. I don't know why, but it makes me feel so good and energized! It puts me in my own little world where time passes way too fast and I would never notice that the kids have dumped the giant carton of goldfish onto the couch and are now dancing on them (yes, that happened), or that it is 5:00pm and we are all still in our PJs (also happened). I cant' be the only one, right? Does anyone else feel the same way?<br />
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-Chloe<br />
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Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-2755789606181702142013-08-16T14:29:00.000-07:002015-10-19T13:06:30.952-07:00Nautical Playroom Reveal!I am so happy today to finally be showing you our completed playroom! When I began this, I had plans of pretty paint and wainscoting for the walls but when we thought we may be moving, those plans were put on hold. We decided that we would be renting a house when we moved to Arizona so paint and wainscoting was no longer an option. It can be hard to get the feeling you want in a house when you have to work around existing paint colors, but I am totally happy with how this room has come together!<br />
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Let's go back and remember where we started with the "before" pictures from our last house.<br />
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Pretty depressing, right?</div>
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The biggest challenge we had was with space. Specifically, the lack of space. This new loft playroom is about 1/4 the size of our old basement playroom. A couple of the bigger toys, like my daughter's kitchen and my son's rocking airplane, had to be moved to the kids bedrooms. This has worked out very well since their bedrooms are right next door to the playroom.<br />
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Okay, enough of this chitchat, lets get to the reveal!<br />
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Drumroll please......</div>
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I have already blogged about using two <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50103086/#/70103085">Expedit shelving units</a> from Ikea for our toy storage (You can read all about our toy storage <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2012/10/playroom-update-toy-storage.html">here</a>) and they have been absolutely perfect! Toys are always neat and easy to find.<br />
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I made the curtains, and all new pillow shams (except for the "map"one which is from Ikea) to give new life to our old sofa. I bought the fabric for the curtains and used what was leftover to make the pillow shams along with some other fabric I had on hand.<br />
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For the small pillow, I made the same kind of knot I used on the lampshade (You can find that tutorial <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2013/08/some-major-changes-and-diy-nautical.html">here</a>) and some burlap ribbon I found in the floral department. I just kind of made the shams up as I went along but they all totally work! Don't you love it when that happens?<br />
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My son recently inherited a large Lego collection from my little brother. The Legos have been stored in this blue tub. The tub works well and fits perfectly in one of our cubbies, but I wanted to spruce it up a bit. I spray painted the front with chalkboard paint and added a piece of rope for a handle.<br />
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Ever since I first made these <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2012/10/playroom-update-2-kids-art-display.html">artwork display frames</a>, I've wanted to label them somehow to make them specific to each child. I ended up making these rope initials.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhth3WVDguVbXCK6iG9pGFJRIN5QXMi8iuDN9YWQi2_VGKEbbDz5jWS-Uz2gd20RPqFPOrYOSVZwrMEQge5nmYzo50onItHz11Q0g-s9c6ASsjgX15VL4OFuCdCiSEO0irMCqJZBiSD4ePi/s1600/IMG_5287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhth3WVDguVbXCK6iG9pGFJRIN5QXMi8iuDN9YWQi2_VGKEbbDz5jWS-Uz2gd20RPqFPOrYOSVZwrMEQge5nmYzo50onItHz11Q0g-s9c6ASsjgX15VL4OFuCdCiSEO0irMCqJZBiSD4ePi/s640/IMG_5287.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ztFUm6rUH6LV_X92ffRBd6OtNLM72Tt7wC6sKcuqDHHTTZBJj8COkb9eIdk0RYAhSLxRGeF0tEcguGxI24LPORelk5RmG6t4dVtF2BOLQk75QNZvij55k9odP14Tt4f4Q1vQa0QiWdQj/s1600/IMG_5274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ztFUm6rUH6LV_X92ffRBd6OtNLM72Tt7wC6sKcuqDHHTTZBJj8COkb9eIdk0RYAhSLxRGeF0tEcguGxI24LPORelk5RmG6t4dVtF2BOLQk75QNZvij55k9odP14Tt4f4Q1vQa0QiWdQj/s320/IMG_5274.jpg" width="275" /></a>All I did was hot glue (you may have noticed by now that I am slightly obsessed with my glue gun and use it almost daily) rope to a piece of card stock in the shape of the letter, then cut it out with an X-acto knife.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8rghtnQarfkCpv54mI7XSmI0ZMNNZIFLKCYVzxrjhM4ni7WDms3PvhFVEgYqyg3ySUaKSC9en-S3Oy9VrUt82pNuXxNpZjvROZJX2Pwidj6xh6CShyGWaZyU3tHxChfppLf1zmrpk0OVN/s1600/IMG_5271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8rghtnQarfkCpv54mI7XSmI0ZMNNZIFLKCYVzxrjhM4ni7WDms3PvhFVEgYqyg3ySUaKSC9en-S3Oy9VrUt82pNuXxNpZjvROZJX2Pwidj6xh6CShyGWaZyU3tHxChfppLf1zmrpk0OVN/s320/IMG_5271.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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The lantern I got a Walmart for less than 4 bucks. I thought it was cute black, but painting it white would help give the room the light airy feeling I was going for.</div>
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The kids art caddy is from Target and I glued the little chalkboard label on the front. It is always stocked with Color Wonder mess free markers and paper. Our kids get into this daily and bring me new works of art to be displayed. I have a separate bin of "messy" art supplies that we get out and use together. My kids cannot be trusted to be alone with even a single crayon!<br />
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The answer is...well... A LOT! </div>
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This chalkboard was originally a magnetic bulletin board from Ikea that we had in our home office. We hadn't been using it since the move, so I gave it a few coats of chalkboard paint and hot glued rope around the edge for a little extra charm. We had some old brightly colored magnet numbers that I decided to paint white and bring up to the playroom. To hold chalk and an eraser, I used a small pale I got at Target for a buck.<br />
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Was that enough projects for one post or what?! Sorry for the overload, there were just so many small DIY projects in this space! We originally set a $500 budget for the playroom but I can tell you that I didn't even come close to hitting that number. We came in way under budget! Seriously, how often does that happen??<br />
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Having a pretty and organized playroom has made me one happy mama! The kids are up there all the time and I love hanging out in there with them! It is the first thing you see when you walk up our stairs and it just makes me smile when I pass by such a cozy and inviting space. </span></div>
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What kinds of projects are you working on to keep kid spaces tidy and functional?<br />
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-Chloe</div>
If you like my style be sure to check out my etsy shop for handmade decor!
<a href="//www.etsy.com/shop/LittleMountainCreek?ref=offsite_badges&utm_source=sellers&utm_medium=badges&utm_campaign=en_isell_1"><img width="200" height="200" src="//img0.etsystatic.com/site-assets/badges/en/en_isell_1.png"></a>Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-84304071318748256472013-08-13T19:10:00.000-07:002013-08-13T19:10:30.032-07:00Some (MAJOR) changes and a DIY nautical knot lampshade tutorialFirst off, there have been some huge changes around here, the biggest being that we have MOVED! Yes, we put so much love and work into our last house but we always knew we would be leaving before long. The Mr. got a new job in Phoenix, Arizona so we put up a For Sale sign and headed south. We plan to be here for about 1-2 years so for the time being we are renting a house in an awesome neighborhood just outside of Phoenix.<br />
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Renting has presented a whole new set of storage/decorating/organizing challenges, and it seems I have been tackling them all at once! Back in Utah my biggest project was making our playroom pretty and organized (you can catch up on old posts about it <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2012/10/playroom-update-toy-storage.html">here</a> and <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2012/10/playroom-update-2-kids-art-display.html">here</a>), so that is where I want to start. We are still sticking with the nautical theme for the playroom and before I reveal the entire finished room I want to share this nautical knot lampshade I came up with today.<br />
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It was easy to make and I am totally in love with how it turned out. </div>
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I bought the plain beige shade at Walmart along with the lamp that was a dark copper color until I gave it a few coats of white spray paint. The rope is from the laundry isle (hangers, baskets, clothes pins, etc.) and is meant to be a clothes line. I am so glad I picked that up! I wasn't sure what I would use it for, but at less than $2 a package I couldn't lose.<br />
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I searched on Pinterest for a tutorial showing how to tie a nautical knot and found <a href="http://youseriouslymadethat.blogspot.com/2011/02/knotted-headband.html?m=1">this one</a> which is actually for a knot headband but there are good, easy to follow instructions for tying the knot.<br />
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I was in love already!</div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"> Hello gorgeous! Where have you been all my life?</i></div>
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After I got the knot nice and flat I hot glued it to the shade. </div>
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Then, zig zagged hot glue across a few inches of the rope and stuck it on the shade. I just repeated that all the way around the shade with all four groups of rope strands. </div>
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And I was done! I told you it was easy!</div>
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Here is a sneak peak of the playroom with the lamp all finished!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by after all this time! I can't wait to share everything else I've been working on!</div>
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-Chloe</div>
Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-3354659007601383812012-11-16T18:41:00.000-08:002012-11-16T18:41:26.956-08:00Fall decor: Keeping It Simple<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Fall is such a magically beautiful time of year. All the colors, styles, and changing landscape put me in a sort of blissful fog. I stager around with my eyes wide open just wishing this feeling would last forever. </div>
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This year I have had so much fun bringing that same magical fall feeling into our home. I think a lot of the time we think that fall decorations need to be dark, rich, and heavy but they DON'T! They can be light and simple, which is what I will be sharing today.</div>
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You won't find any porcelain pilgrims or wood cut-out turkeys. Instead, I've used plants we've gathered that bring an autumn feeling, along with other simple touches. </div>
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The most important thing I've learned is to<b> <span style="font-size: x-large;">keep it simple.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">In our Entry:</span> </b>A couple pumpkins that escaped being carved for halloween next to family outerwear (this has that magic fall feeling all over it!).</div>
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Pine cones and ribbon bring so much to the sconces, and the indian corn on the mirror seems so classically Thanksgiving. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>The front door:</b></span> I saw something similar to this on Pinterest and altered it to fit my style. It was so easy, just pinecones, hot glue, and ribbon.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeTAh2oXbYWATcpwoC7JKHOJHgLQJCE4mHy99DXXOpt2qZtkk2Pw8uq34D8q36AlxbXflIsEUHIjBQO-sOOFwb_8pvsF3j8-O3oZpNjT2tJyWeJcegYR1kPY9LECPYHXacLenEN0oXoCG/s1600/IMG_4779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeTAh2oXbYWATcpwoC7JKHOJHgLQJCE4mHy99DXXOpt2qZtkk2Pw8uq34D8q36AlxbXflIsEUHIjBQO-sOOFwb_8pvsF3j8-O3oZpNjT2tJyWeJcegYR1kPY9LECPYHXacLenEN0oXoCG/s640/IMG_4779.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQuILZPEwYKqnDOimCbg03IrQezEB4MdPkQUYgTjDVeNkMGdQBGQMczS_1UpR7ekSI5NjKPJg1KS4HGxIbGSrEkwHV2KfGOXiE3jfxfB5d-nGH6kwLUHAdWzVm04OSa5gIyc_mPxnDkzY/s1600/IMG_4788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOIkJG7uVJR7N3LXbhs6NvJuRunGCut92W-jff9jAFU-xXnqBuEerj21FR9NZUrzqDsNV-FEz4bqgw0gr1GrsOj1Bj5f4KdqBr8349jJ63hXYuiynoUPQKexFfuQ9dJA2BikSVg9mW1a8/s1600/IMG_4782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOIkJG7uVJR7N3LXbhs6NvJuRunGCut92W-jff9jAFU-xXnqBuEerj21FR9NZUrzqDsNV-FEz4bqgw0gr1GrsOj1Bj5f4KdqBr8349jJ63hXYuiynoUPQKexFfuQ9dJA2BikSVg9mW1a8/s400/IMG_4782.jpg" width="265" /></a><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQuILZPEwYKqnDOimCbg03IrQezEB4MdPkQUYgTjDVeNkMGdQBGQMczS_1UpR7ekSI5NjKPJg1KS4HGxIbGSrEkwHV2KfGOXiE3jfxfB5d-nGH6kwLUHAdWzVm04OSa5gIyc_mPxnDkzY/s400/IMG_4788.jpg" width="266" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>On the shelves:</b></span> A bowl of pinecones, a bundle of dried grass, and some fall branches. Each of these are gorgeous and... oh yeah, FREE! Even that bottle the branches are in is an old salad dressing bottle!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>The Dining Table:</b></span> I put some dried grass (from our yard) in an old bbq sauce bottle and wrapped it with ribbon. On the chandelier I just placed some branches I clipped from outside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTKtgUa3aX0lhTkpNFWL2dzeiKuiiItzg3kD0CmGZAH4O1M66rG4jTW5QuUjY67N8ZdSJv5Y-YiumBrJjd0ELqSrSSqWBWVxvIamxLzMcWAqUzXnIOJRMJ4GXQTJXH8C7oJL1sinipiH6/s1600/IMG_4798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTKtgUa3aX0lhTkpNFWL2dzeiKuiiItzg3kD0CmGZAH4O1M66rG4jTW5QuUjY67N8ZdSJv5Y-YiumBrJjd0ELqSrSSqWBWVxvIamxLzMcWAqUzXnIOJRMJ4GXQTJXH8C7oJL1sinipiH6/s640/IMG_4798.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyOJHgNPqM0CjhV-M_SjHm2ra3PcqMFP351er5uZD5Ngo7dbbsQQzI2NWvrJbewYL8LTl9KmYJf__UYZmN23_kkeRn2yt_Hl9lHEmwBVnRCrK_3bb5zxfBXhLXp9T3CC8rcHdftYjh55D1/s1600/IMG_4793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyOJHgNPqM0CjhV-M_SjHm2ra3PcqMFP351er5uZD5Ngo7dbbsQQzI2NWvrJbewYL8LTl9KmYJf__UYZmN23_kkeRn2yt_Hl9lHEmwBVnRCrK_3bb5zxfBXhLXp9T3CC8rcHdftYjh55D1/s400/IMG_4793.jpg" width="266" /></a><br />
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The white pumpkins are the ONLY actual fall decorations I own that are from a store, and I am obsessed with them. I love that they can be out from September through November!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVN2HhnJMW4kN1U6C-KCT3QS41PJl8t3UPbN_4dzZdXxRo3TirJR9UMfBt1Lyt0qOehjowtkPNZU2ikZHdCffzSlpmlhRwDTzQ46tdnfCQD4Jm45i4XosZAoLqMKjUyiskPWu1-3OLoirr/s1600/IMG_4815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVN2HhnJMW4kN1U6C-KCT3QS41PJl8t3UPbN_4dzZdXxRo3TirJR9UMfBt1Lyt0qOehjowtkPNZU2ikZHdCffzSlpmlhRwDTzQ46tdnfCQD4Jm45i4XosZAoLqMKjUyiskPWu1-3OLoirr/s400/IMG_4815.jpg" width="266" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaNMarRk_WHz4qEE1gmVl7lfMg6ZGw3r3B1RQ9kXx45R7PmR4R_QZTzWJ0C3owTZ7-4Jh4tCy-M9-m3UoBgnP7j3EbITj-l3rPKCQdH9Z0fp59Viv2d7cyKB-zr4Yq5mWSqCDcR-g5bU4/s1600/IMG_4808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaNMarRk_WHz4qEE1gmVl7lfMg6ZGw3r3B1RQ9kXx45R7PmR4R_QZTzWJ0C3owTZ7-4Jh4tCy-M9-m3UoBgnP7j3EbITj-l3rPKCQdH9Z0fp59Viv2d7cyKB-zr4Yq5mWSqCDcR-g5bU4/s400/IMG_4808.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>End Table: </b></span>place a leaf on the heated wax of a candle and when cooled, the leaf stays put. An easy, cheap way to get a more interesting candle. (The leaf was dried and pressed first, otherwise it would not have kept it's shape or color.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZl9A9KPK7FLKXmZqJwb2Wq4YT8F5ft_xMsfT67YNYmkpi18bTMNubTId1ssygOScu8XP0Uhq8M_Wcv4nCSaTRseMYnxAuwRynrrxq7sv0yrPdC5s3q8mF1eRNrBa9wLrVyqC9SOcxK5Ll/s1600/IMG_4775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZl9A9KPK7FLKXmZqJwb2Wq4YT8F5ft_xMsfT67YNYmkpi18bTMNubTId1ssygOScu8XP0Uhq8M_Wcv4nCSaTRseMYnxAuwRynrrxq7sv0yrPdC5s3q8mF1eRNrBa9wLrVyqC9SOcxK5Ll/s400/IMG_4775.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Lastly:</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>A little sweater pillow makes this room feel warm and cozy.<br />
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I still have no idea how I will be decorating the dining tables for Thanksgiving. Any Ideas on how to make it beautiful while leaving plenty of room for all the food?<br />
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-ChloeChloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-6144394830795149472012-10-24T14:17:00.000-07:002012-10-24T14:24:20.386-07:00Playroom Update 2: Kid's Art Display(To read part 1 of my playroom update click <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2012/10/playroom-update-toy-storage.html">here</a>.)<br />
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I love the idea of using children's artwork to decorate the home. But what are we to do when our kids are bringing home a new painting from school every week? or even more often than that?<br />
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This is the solution we have come up with in our home to easily display and rotate artwork.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UIFn4IkCnaCHcP6DbzgRcD8f1hyphenhyphenfbpQlz_efB5zaBIZ_JzZdG0UTwkratOQrCd5nacaQIjbQKnHxSW1l7mW22WYThg23Qer2Lt3PKioYzq8Ae4UyFhurbbHx4l-spryk7bWLIoZAPcWQ/s1600/IMG_4580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UIFn4IkCnaCHcP6DbzgRcD8f1hyphenhyphenfbpQlz_efB5zaBIZ_JzZdG0UTwkratOQrCd5nacaQIjbQKnHxSW1l7mW22WYThg23Qer2Lt3PKioYzq8Ae4UyFhurbbHx4l-spryk7bWLIoZAPcWQ/s640/IMG_4580.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A place for each child to proudly display the art they worked to hard on. It can be admired and appreciated until we are ready to put up a new masterpiece! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVjIY0vLKe0DgYvZUwrk-btGnTPAkMFSyITtA4Pf0z1THzsNMM8e8YhwM1fUH6_2WIxG7LhXWai6WiiB1J6ef2-ugZIizmv677-lcJePlgNNDMglHR9pZlbFdXmO5Sl2P01GYWdXyHMSwt/s1600/IMG_4569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVjIY0vLKe0DgYvZUwrk-btGnTPAkMFSyITtA4Pf0z1THzsNMM8e8YhwM1fUH6_2WIxG7LhXWai6WiiB1J6ef2-ugZIizmv677-lcJePlgNNDMglHR9pZlbFdXmO5Sl2P01GYWdXyHMSwt/s640/IMG_4569.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I started out with two black frames I picked up at Walmart. After removing the back and the glass I spray painted them white (If I could have found frames for the same price that were already white, it would have meant a little less work. Painting them was quick and easy though, so it didn't matter to me what color they were when I bought them.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyhOhi6ekdzMUK4yXYuYhcKgnuHROqr5XGaAvqvXi_Yoh5y3fg1NJCkzUUppZ2W6z0kGtOWapzdusOj1qYuzHNTgRo1BVSf4X4o2xypN_sBcH0zdel2ETOuonzjPrL57OdDmNFd4e7nrD3/s1600/IMG_4217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyhOhi6ekdzMUK4yXYuYhcKgnuHROqr5XGaAvqvXi_Yoh5y3fg1NJCkzUUppZ2W6z0kGtOWapzdusOj1qYuzHNTgRo1BVSf4X4o2xypN_sBcH0zdel2ETOuonzjPrL57OdDmNFd4e7nrD3/s400/IMG_4217.jpg" width="266" /></a>Then I used painter's tape to make the stripes, and a mini foam roller to apply the navy blue paint. Four coats of paint later and I was able to remove the tape! The foam roller really did a great job at limiting the paint bleeding underneath the tape.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLd6Gaf_n8UzzHSKsnj0aEww38ikyC9F9PmtbjJKIEPDeqsU48y1zeFATKHTXBtcnMafxpflh4iD_yRL-cWWaIwovIbCivaASLW_SoOuatkO0I-jQfhD7mTUOtSHtnL0Fd3Cx9FYYCjlqe/s1600/IMG_4579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLd6Gaf_n8UzzHSKsnj0aEww38ikyC9F9PmtbjJKIEPDeqsU48y1zeFATKHTXBtcnMafxpflh4iD_yRL-cWWaIwovIbCivaASLW_SoOuatkO0I-jQfhD7mTUOtSHtnL0Fd3Cx9FYYCjlqe/s400/IMG_4579.jpg" width="266" /></a><br />
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I found this grey polka dot fabric in the remnant section for a super deal. All I had to do was hot glue a piece to the backing of the frame. The white matting came with the frame so I just popped that back into place.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1GAxwN0AqS5vPYSw9gxZAB4y_tojDwrRYKRQybJF4zNwA1qZPb_T6u1SKKJtCpTnNZV4W13HAfPHBqc8obYv8l6Q8AU7ueE0B-Y2HXbjktbreW5BQmBk3OHbrxv7OLI-HDJHa00rlgn5g/s1600/IMG_4578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1GAxwN0AqS5vPYSw9gxZAB4y_tojDwrRYKRQybJF4zNwA1qZPb_T6u1SKKJtCpTnNZV4W13HAfPHBqc8obYv8l6Q8AU7ueE0B-Y2HXbjktbreW5BQmBk3OHbrxv7OLI-HDJHa00rlgn5g/s400/IMG_4578.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The final step was just to attach these clips. I hot glued each one on and that was it! Done! Wasn't that easy?<br />
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So far I am loving theses display frames! Still have a lot to do (including painting the entire room!) but things are beginning to come together!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-9JeAxsQZ70J2GEN25l1AgpkoGPpltIhxywoIibBxKsb2hmop5qaLeeV79cOcqeyZcOaYurUNQLNdWpr5aTcPWPIAbZnsCyicQf0e0T0B5lH14tlVTtfFvJGDzUy0vk76yACjgxZ7lP0/s1600/IMG_4566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-9JeAxsQZ70J2GEN25l1AgpkoGPpltIhxywoIibBxKsb2hmop5qaLeeV79cOcqeyZcOaYurUNQLNdWpr5aTcPWPIAbZnsCyicQf0e0T0B5lH14tlVTtfFvJGDzUy0vk76yACjgxZ7lP0/s640/IMG_4566.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9_vSJLySrVeO7iyeA3WzwLbfci660OW51u8eprMNkEJz-ewFgjYy7mkE4DqCoOMqBVjdjnizCIpO-FX5M1DzYEfVYpwMRHTqXO9ycxvKWGhJ_SS0MzRsr78PdHterTMvrv47sOnQoqh4/s1600/IMG_4576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9_vSJLySrVeO7iyeA3WzwLbfci660OW51u8eprMNkEJz-ewFgjYy7mkE4DqCoOMqBVjdjnizCIpO-FX5M1DzYEfVYpwMRHTqXO9ycxvKWGhJ_SS0MzRsr78PdHterTMvrv47sOnQoqh4/s640/IMG_4576.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I would like to label them for each child somehow. I am thinking maybe a wooden initial hanging right above each frame. What do you think? Any other Ideas?<br />
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-Chloe<br />
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<br />Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-20665876579175662612012-10-01T13:43:00.000-07:002015-10-19T13:07:45.328-07:00Playroom Update: Toy Storage A few months ago my husband and I decided on a budget to (I don't want to say "redo" because we never did it to begin with... so I'll go with "do") do our playroom. I got to planning, measuring, and shopping right away. We're going with a nautical theme for the room; aqua, navy, and white. <br />
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We had an awesome space in our basement but it wasn't functioning as well as it could. The kids weren't spending a whole lot of time in there and since it was the ugliest, messiest room in the house, it wasn't exactly my favorite place to hang out either. When it was clean, that just meant all the toys were arranged on the floor or up against the wall. We still kept a lot of toys in the kid's bedrooms since there was no storage at all in the playroom.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibApRxtYJ2yVmb2BtO_YtW-CfjcqJI8k6SfPlTETh67NoKvj2WdLMxFoeomoy-IbsdXPBYVZOTCLFcw_GQGOniTqZlosrQNgsHq7bHC0BKLFq4CB1XJFSN7Upl5c-k-tRJMQjcd87NR7Fo/s1600/IMG_3517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibApRxtYJ2yVmb2BtO_YtW-CfjcqJI8k6SfPlTETh67NoKvj2WdLMxFoeomoy-IbsdXPBYVZOTCLFcw_GQGOniTqZlosrQNgsHq7bHC0BKLFq4CB1XJFSN7Upl5c-k-tRJMQjcd87NR7Fo/s640/IMG_3517.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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After scouring the internet (well, mostly Pinterest) for pictures of beautiful and functional playrooms, I decided what would work best for us, the space, and our budget was an Expedit shelving unit from Ikea. So, I know that using an Expedit in a playroom is no new thing. In fact, it seems to be in nearly every playroom on Pinterest, but that is just because it functions SOOO well for little ones and is a bargin at only $69.99! They can be used standing up vertically or laying horizontally which makes them very versatile. We bought two to put in the corner.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHy3uMUf-I1ebmnwXFJjn5zl-vGe8Qw3Gg1A-v9c4EY7iK65IkHYjqgsM7oPkyQFwoPyyqZzyUsYKFBHenRk69jsHmQz6-GH49fZOYSQrtyjrSrktXZakfiXL985zGf-u8C2uYSMguZjq8/s1600/IMG_4307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHy3uMUf-I1ebmnwXFJjn5zl-vGe8Qw3Gg1A-v9c4EY7iK65IkHYjqgsM7oPkyQFwoPyyqZzyUsYKFBHenRk69jsHmQz6-GH49fZOYSQrtyjrSrktXZakfiXL985zGf-u8C2uYSMguZjq8/s640/IMG_4307.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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I also got 4 <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20110540/">Knipsa Baskets</a> from Ikea that fit perfectly in the spaces of the Expedit. These baskets are ultra sturdy and can fit a ton of toys! Perfect!<br />
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I wanted to label the baskets so my kids would be able to tell what is in each basket and to be able to help at clean up time. Since neither of our kids can read yet, the labels needed to have pictures instead of words. I found these <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0056ICCVG/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00">mini chalkboards</a> on Amazon at only $8 a dozen that work great. I wasn't a huge fan of the square hole that was in the middle of the baskets so I just hot glued the chalkboards right over it. There is still plenty of room at the top for your hand to pull the basket out. I love that I can so easily change up what is on the label as my kid's toys change over time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMlN67yIP9hLEYQsNqbye2BmPBhnFH6YToorHWHUIvxBmAJFhqxl94n-lvkJ63k4KnUhxhGyQNsZC66w75dzwoaPUXGlUU7lRsSvrveNiI-M8chaRocADBs0bFhOhj1EIN-Rl4pKOIRL_M/s1600/IMG_4312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMlN67yIP9hLEYQsNqbye2BmPBhnFH6YToorHWHUIvxBmAJFhqxl94n-lvkJ63k4KnUhxhGyQNsZC66w75dzwoaPUXGlUU7lRsSvrveNiI-M8chaRocADBs0bFhOhj1EIN-Rl4pKOIRL_M/s320/IMG_4312.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxTL6c2MPcPWhN9ZL05ufRdP9OHl9DXoABMSPMR1R7DvYGOXgJzDN0zuVxPO070CFafSQDldNSx2ivp-Pmk-wkrAsN56oZVSEj8h5NYxGGtoioKc1yT1Ongbf_IyrRUp5mb9Tmyo-d6Bh/s1600/IMG_4309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxTL6c2MPcPWhN9ZL05ufRdP9OHl9DXoABMSPMR1R7DvYGOXgJzDN0zuVxPO070CFafSQDldNSx2ivp-Pmk-wkrAsN56oZVSEj8h5NYxGGtoioKc1yT1Ongbf_IyrRUp5mb9Tmyo-d6Bh/s320/IMG_4309.jpg" width="213" /></a><br />
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For smaller toys like cars and blocks, I bought 4 white <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wald-Imports-2-Inch-Round-White/dp/B004L9LABY/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1349118831&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=wald+Imports++white+pail">metal buckets</a> also from Amazon. These were kind of a splurge even though they were the cheapest buckets I could find this size. to add to the nautical theme I painted navy blue stripes on each bucket.<br />
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I used painter's tape and first gave them a coat of white (to create a seal and limit the blue paint bleeding under the tape) then a few coats of navy blue.<br />
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I really am in love with these buckets! I find myself wanting to use buckets to store things all over the house now! They are just so darn cute!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHy3uMUf-I1ebmnwXFJjn5zl-vGe8Qw3Gg1A-v9c4EY7iK65IkHYjqgsM7oPkyQFwoPyyqZzyUsYKFBHenRk69jsHmQz6-GH49fZOYSQrtyjrSrktXZakfiXL985zGf-u8C2uYSMguZjq8/s1600/IMG_4307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHy3uMUf-I1ebmnwXFJjn5zl-vGe8Qw3Gg1A-v9c4EY7iK65IkHYjqgsM7oPkyQFwoPyyqZzyUsYKFBHenRk69jsHmQz6-GH49fZOYSQrtyjrSrktXZakfiXL985zGf-u8C2uYSMguZjq8/s640/IMG_4307.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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That's all the toy storage for now. We still have a lot of work to do in this room and I'll be sharing all the updates as they come along!<br />
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-Chloe
If you like my style be sure to check out my etsy shop!
<a href="//www.etsy.com/shop/LittleMountainCreek?ref=offsite_badges&utm_source=sellers&utm_medium=badges&utm_campaign=en_isell_1"><img width="200" height="200" src="//img0.etsystatic.com/site-assets/badges/en/en_isell_1.png"></a>Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-34048292058070253342012-09-22T17:21:00.002-07:002012-09-22T17:21:40.137-07:00Remodelaholic Feature! My little blog was recently featured at <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-lovely-multi-purpose-closet.html">i heart Organizing</a> which was such an awesome experience, and today <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/2012/09/big-kitchen-makeover-budget/">Remodelaholic</a> is featuring my kitchen remodel! I can't believe the interest everywhere beautiful has gotten lately! I have loved getting to know the blogging world, everyone is so inspiring and encouraging! Thank you everyone for taking a minute to stop by!Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-62816714668843314962012-09-17T19:31:00.001-07:002012-09-17T19:31:37.984-07:00Hidden Kitchen OrganizationWhat I love most about having this blog is that it keeps me motivated to work on all my projects around the house. I also love finding ideas and inspiration from all of your blogs and I hope my blog does the same for you!<br />
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Lately I have really been working on organizing the unseen areas of our home (cupboards, drawers, closets, etc.). Today I'll share the progress I have made in our unseen kitchen spaces.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">1. </span><br />
First up is the space beneath the kitchen sink.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGRujSncSxwoV0S-Lliq4VTIiuIwA-AvB-aztbUVlzP4SCG4qfpuY67qHz7ds9GLWonhmh3s3dfBbQez4dQ7eBme-J3LsH1PA_YJHDObs_b7SO6LMEDp_mXA8UzsEuyEy6OX7oHFiG1bzU/s640/IMG_4116.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiY8isxFQtTvWbHTGyHcgD7GNA8QO0fq63MyOxZosKvc1XKzMdAJ8N2cQbnreTToTBdL6OtZJbCVmC3r_ylOsNetwPttYqke9say98-lO919jt2sfztUk9Ba1MlH4djcJIYq9Ur_XWHHfx/s640/IMG_4162.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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This is a space that gets used all throughout the day. It's where we keep our trash, along with cleaners, soaps and dish gloves.<br />
I started by cleaning out the cupboard and getting rid of any empty bottles or unneeded items.<br />
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Next I put down some cute contact paper I picked up at the dollar store. I love that contact paper can make the normally ugly space under the sink pretty!<br />
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It was sometimes hard to find what I was looking for because the cupboard is so deep and dark so I needed a way to easily see everything. I had an extra Antonius wire basket left over from when I <a href="http://everywherebeautiful.blogspot.com/2012/06/hall-closet-make-over-will-make-you.html">organized my hall closet</a> that was the perfect solution! It holds everything I need and can slide out like a drawer, so even the things in the back are easily accessible.<br />
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I also added a 3M Command hook to the inside of one of the doors to hang my dish gloves.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">2.</span><br />
In our kitchen we have very limited drawer space. There is one huge drawer and 4 tiny drawers. I have come to really like my giant everything drawer and I like it even more now! It holds every cooking utensil I have plus all of our silverware. Making sure everything has a specific place has been the key to keeping this drawer efficient. Again, I used the same contact paper from the dollar store along with a few wire containers also from the dollar store.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">3. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnN93kmIGlgJARzSTfnwiDemCvYoA1s3aD7-8bcPmI9ipF-VqrpL6KeNpsqbzIGY-1pfFn8hjSkeQ4j7oS04AJomy5qrNYPeqr0wCkGtOrOOFhxgGLJ20DqXK9qsEF3m4lUS31k4R_4_aY/s1600/IMG_4204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnN93kmIGlgJARzSTfnwiDemCvYoA1s3aD7-8bcPmI9ipF-VqrpL6KeNpsqbzIGY-1pfFn8hjSkeQ4j7oS04AJomy5qrNYPeqr0wCkGtOrOOFhxgGLJ20DqXK9qsEF3m4lUS31k4R_4_aY/s400/IMG_4204.jpg" width="266" /></a>I have finally figured out how to keep a junk drawer organized! So what's the secret? Don't treat it like a "junk" drawer! Instead of it being a catchall be more thoughtful about it. Before I stick anything in there I think to myself "Is this really the best, most efficient place for this item?" and it really has worked! Of course my husband will throw just about anything in there but it's nothing I can't handle. If I happen to see something that doesn't belong I take it out right away. It has been great being able to find a clothes pin or pair of scissors so easily!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">4.</span><br />
Next is a simple one. I like to go through the mail as soon as it comes in the house. Most of it goes straight into the recycling bin but what about the rest? Here is our handy place to keep mail from cluttering up counter space.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">5.</span><br />
Lastly, we have some organized upper cabinets.<br />
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Keeping our canned food organized was always hard because the cabinet is so deep and I could only see what was in the very front. I found these can organizers for a buck each (there are two in there), they make every can visible so I can easily see what we have. We keep the bulk of our canned food in a food storage room in the basement, so the kitchen cabinets don't get too cluttered.<br />
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Our spice cupboard had the same problem as the canned food but since the spices are so much smaller than the cans, I needed a different solution.<br />
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Now, don't laugh (Okay, I guess you can laugh) but I have been using a few spaghetti boxes to raise the spices. It actually has been working out perfectly!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOs72Tx55E3N12E-kRsHWDrY-uo05ucv1EjTHZAH9Et1u6rK7ykVVbonGFlG_IvXauQGjHqT0vPBZdbb1JJNJ5AR1qHP80Bo6WtdwR8P3ilmnAzYruaOtRo80A3dh1iWvHPJhv8qPd89F8/s1600/IMG_4175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOs72Tx55E3N12E-kRsHWDrY-uo05ucv1EjTHZAH9Et1u6rK7ykVVbonGFlG_IvXauQGjHqT0vPBZdbb1JJNJ5AR1qHP80Bo6WtdwR8P3ilmnAzYruaOtRo80A3dh1iWvHPJhv8qPd89F8/s400/IMG_4175.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrdk0g8dREvapwffTP6-dFYqsfsN5_qg4URjFoGZbhKeP3gb6lkYFKbccN_JpAnjqag-R1bhKHPye8JJXh8taPijMdD3LEUZzyyraZFaFSLkweUpChAePijW2qpcOiQ7mj0lC66Xi0-gz/s1600/IMG_4210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrdk0g8dREvapwffTP6-dFYqsfsN5_qg4URjFoGZbhKeP3gb6lkYFKbccN_JpAnjqag-R1bhKHPye8JJXh8taPijMdD3LEUZzyyraZFaFSLkweUpChAePijW2qpcOiQ7mj0lC66Xi0-gz/s200/IMG_4210.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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As for everything else in the cabinet, like with the junk drawer, it all has a specific place. It's easier than you'd think to just put the salt or whatever you used, back in the same place. I love opening an organized cupboard everyday and I never would have thought that it would be so easy to keep it this neat!<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q_dP8XUgUQ_0hinWsHW5USnwEdI_OFQp5MCKBUyfkTyBGoKyhKgFaXvrjwl49kdhI69guazB2-f3fyAdNYUthjAMf2dK_rklIjjUoUlo7H_5bZWO_2WcggLlON-tSB26nYK0xk8xibQv/s640/IMG_4177.JPG" /><br />
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The more spaces I organize the more I realize how easy it is to keep<i> </i>it that way. Going the extra mile to make the space pretty is just more to motivate you to keep it nice and neat.<br />
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Like always, I'd love to hear any tips you have found for keeping your kitchen organized and efficient!<br />
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-Chloe<br />
<br />Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-27495833403307911052012-09-07T13:09:00.002-07:002015-10-19T13:03:14.626-07:00Kitchen Remodel: Big Results on a Not So Big BudgetCrisp white kitchen cabinets have been my dream ever since I can remember (I couldn't have been the only 12 year old dreaming of remodeling my future kitchen? Right?), So when my husband and I were shopping for a house I was specifically looking for a kitchen with potential. I was hoping for icky looking cabinets that were sturdy and in good shape, plus a layout that would work.<br />
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When I saw this kitchen I knew exactly what I needed to do to make it look like this<br />
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I have learned that there are a few very important (in my opinion) things that are often overlooked during a remodel. Of course there are the big changes like painting the cabinets and installing new countertops, but I want to talk about the smaller details that can make all the difference.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Add crown moulding to builder's grade cabinets.</b></span><br />
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Before we bought our house I began to notice that cabinets in high end kitchens usually had thick beautiful crown moulding along the top. This is an easy change that I think has the biggest impact of any I will mention here. I also added bead board to the sides of my cabinets but that is just a personal style choice.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Stager upper cabinets</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OsohWNDyYT7Y-e9yDs-zuU2NKFjBA6Hj-So_OGIFqCxUi_t_-Jm7QmA_N6K4-ruQqCMR9mHXinepM9cmI4wJSn_E762_OOoecKVEORjqI5WoFWdlEgZ-Lu2rudF6AGMPwQnlayRUQf70/s1600/IMG_4067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OsohWNDyYT7Y-e9yDs-zuU2NKFjBA6Hj-So_OGIFqCxUi_t_-Jm7QmA_N6K4-ruQqCMR9mHXinepM9cmI4wJSn_E762_OOoecKVEORjqI5WoFWdlEgZ-Lu2rudF6AGMPwQnlayRUQf70/s320/IMG_4067.jpg" width="213" /></a>We raised the cabinet above the microwave and popped it forward a couple inches too. I think it gives the kitchen more of a custom feel. I wish now that we had also raised the cabinet above the refrigerator but that can be done another day I guess!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Cut out center of cabinet door and add glass</span></b><br />
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I had no idea how simple this would be! We just cut out the center panels then took the doors to a glass place (I'm sorry, I really don't know what else to call it!) and they installed a pane of glass in each. The best part is that it only cost 20 bucks for the two of them!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. Add new hardware</span></b><br />
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New pulls and knobs give you a chance to personalize your kitchen a little more. Replacing old knobs may be a given but if your kitchen doesn't already have any to begin with I would definitely add some. When it comes to hinges, they will make cabinets look fresh and clean (plus hinges are totally cheap so you really can't lose!).<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. A new faucet</span></b><br />
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A pretty faucet will liven up the kitchen! I got mine at Costco for a great deal and it had all the practical features I was looking for.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. Backsplash</span></b><br />
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We went with tile but there are lots of options. All the tile for our backsplash cost about $200 which I thought was a good deal but you could definitely spend a lot less and still have good results. Shop around for your tile, don't just choose from the selection at the big chain stores. I prefer a more neutral colored backsplash as opposed to a fun, trendy colored one that may not be trendy for long. You can always add color with accessories that can be changed out whenever you feel like it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4c5bUxsfz39U7EXdL7Xd77urnMwOA9QQmEwmTNHzTmkXHaOVAR1tK466qnndl-1Y6pL6_cZ-KFU8owZX54bgumwYy6V8iBHD-B2rOeXpcP-A21R8HPKCilEF5yGy_L3MkhguJMDSJtlD/s1600/IMG_4085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4c5bUxsfz39U7EXdL7Xd77urnMwOA9QQmEwmTNHzTmkXHaOVAR1tK466qnndl-1Y6pL6_cZ-KFU8owZX54bgumwYy6V8iBHD-B2rOeXpcP-A21R8HPKCilEF5yGy_L3MkhguJMDSJtlD/s400/IMG_4085.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">7. Remove outdated features</span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqlN_KEwVgifYBv7FJqby-FgUlGknJoRYlgLJ8lTo4wLvVbFWwQ4qLPlm3F4X5VNB2TL3GnRFj6sksi2_DHiOV_2Oz73IxlYeVxk-DyX2PjZp4ShqflQj4dKPlWX2gyhL8uS138vuNG9k/s1600/IMG_0218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqlN_KEwVgifYBv7FJqby-FgUlGknJoRYlgLJ8lTo4wLvVbFWwQ4qLPlm3F4X5VNB2TL3GnRFj6sksi2_DHiOV_2Oz73IxlYeVxk-DyX2PjZp4ShqflQj4dKPlWX2gyhL8uS138vuNG9k/s320/IMG_0218.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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In my case I had one of those...what are they called? Appliance garage? Not really sure. All I knew was that it had to go, and look at all the extra counter space i've got now!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5sD5UGDneZkc2c-SAq0abFFGkdl4OI1RMGsEhnixq9Ja-5P6iikQrpzIi8IonBcKtgHjoE1yVNa3ZtS04WIyKd0g_BIoA8RhPAp39MGA5D5BjyR_BQCKG0mfRRJzxK5HQUmhMhVknJly/s1600/IMG_4094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5sD5UGDneZkc2c-SAq0abFFGkdl4OI1RMGsEhnixq9Ja-5P6iikQrpzIi8IonBcKtgHjoE1yVNa3ZtS04WIyKd0g_BIoA8RhPAp39MGA5D5BjyR_BQCKG0mfRRJzxK5HQUmhMhVknJly/s400/IMG_4094.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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That's it! If you have any other advise to add I'd love to hear it!<br />
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-Chloe<br />
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If you like my style be sure to stop by my etsy shop for handmade decor!
<a href="//www.etsy.com/shop/LittleMountainCreek?ref=offsite_badges&utm_source=sellers&utm_medium=badges&utm_campaign=en_isell_1"><img width="200" height="200" src="//img0.etsystatic.com/site-assets/badges/en/en_isell_1.png"></a>Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com72tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-18124662634692116172012-09-03T15:48:00.002-07:002012-09-03T15:51:47.129-07:00Circus Party<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My son's circus birthday party was so much fun to plan. Thanks to my endless searching online and at the dollar store, making things ourselves, and borrowing what we could from friends, we only spent about $100!</div>
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I wish I had been able to get some pictures before the kids started to arrive but it was a crazy day. Luckily I do have a bunch of pics from during the party! Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_MBxHDB4vy8OiYWqQeIBUEolqDQ0N3THUFlS8MtR98lLAcSL2Qp4JzBW76-96gNru6L3Cm-EFVqZg05HwlEg04YZvAPEbsvcs6oRhtbiaWtp9JU9SHLejbMxX0mGRwQMGKXSAuhqZb5Y/s1600/IMG_3419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_MBxHDB4vy8OiYWqQeIBUEolqDQ0N3THUFlS8MtR98lLAcSL2Qp4JzBW76-96gNru6L3Cm-EFVqZg05HwlEg04YZvAPEbsvcs6oRhtbiaWtp9JU9SHLejbMxX0mGRwQMGKXSAuhqZb5Y/s640/IMG_3419.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I absolutely loved making the invitations and signs! There are so many cute circusy fonts you can download for free! I got most of my fonts <a href="http://www.fontspace.com/search/?q=circus">here</a>, just search "circus" or "carnival".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQs9hMrQr7QTM1TYhzm43foVWT0FTXQeZN7u3_1pw_hr2-VovcI0wkH3xegSQNbNY4Zzee6uOdNfjvLgGENXs2GNcM1509uFFFQugPU3D5n4ASze3JOlWSemyyqM-KVfzhEUEyaZXJXol/s1600/IMG_3394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQs9hMrQr7QTM1TYhzm43foVWT0FTXQeZN7u3_1pw_hr2-VovcI0wkH3xegSQNbNY4Zzee6uOdNfjvLgGENXs2GNcM1509uFFFQugPU3D5n4ASze3JOlWSemyyqM-KVfzhEUEyaZXJXol/s640/IMG_3394.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgx2rplJMudT039hHEeynlAoiLzAHDiDFap24L9MCxN58K9lQKfdyYTC897YGRC0q8g-IGQG1b0il6K3F7rmrEth8KnMnCw_A0hyphenhyphenSf8NU4he5h9yhM4gFrkX48ovN02gzx4ykwPwRwC25h/s1600/IMG_3392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgx2rplJMudT039hHEeynlAoiLzAHDiDFap24L9MCxN58K9lQKfdyYTC897YGRC0q8g-IGQG1b0il6K3F7rmrEth8KnMnCw_A0hyphenhyphenSf8NU4he5h9yhM4gFrkX48ovN02gzx4ykwPwRwC25h/s320/IMG_3392.JPG" /></a> "Welcome to the Circus!" I got the idea for these signs from some things I saw on Pinterest. The banner is just made out of some old poster board that had been used on one side. </div>
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The goodie bags are dollar store bags (10 for a buck) with labels that I made glued on the front. <br />
Each party guest got a bag, a clown nose (I don't know how, but I don't have a singe picture of any kids wearing the clown noses!), a horn and unlimited tickets (also from dollar store) to use to play games.<br />
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The kids won a piece of candy at each carnival game so the bags were used to hold all their loot!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQH4GyQgJCbwzpV7UjiDwTIl2gkpk8Yjmx95TM7maSgb6RemvMV4M9g-U95nV2oHO29LQLIbqCD6xdLrltwCFqQLAx5i0NCfJ2QewAyQQaLSY_ZUyiSaijkdr6zg8AAbGLBRAh2Bzu5mC/s1600/IMG_3335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQH4GyQgJCbwzpV7UjiDwTIl2gkpk8Yjmx95TM7maSgb6RemvMV4M9g-U95nV2oHO29LQLIbqCD6xdLrltwCFqQLAx5i0NCfJ2QewAyQQaLSY_ZUyiSaijkdr6zg8AAbGLBRAh2Bzu5mC/s320/IMG_3335.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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This was our "big top". I bought a red and white striped table cloth roll from Oriental Trading that had so many uses for this party!<br />
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The balance beam along with the other fun stuff under the tent I was able to borrow from someone who runs a gymnastics class.<br />
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The cake! This may be one of my favorite thing from the party. I found these adorable <a href="http://onecharmingparty.com/2011/01/31/the-circus-party/">free printables</a> to top off the cake. Notice how the ball on the seal's nose is really a lolly pop? I just can't get enough of this!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1U859Ir15m7l8fw3hg7Hn9f65WT-92j3VwQ-nQqIfQz1GRPRTRBNivRTK1rHj2zTRshlwwXz5gUXnzR2lNL5cKqJCxNTef3ZDQJbQeMrJaz4M4_diJV5meFmIAhnnsfzqRcEGz60UH3KN/s1600/IMG_3322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1U859Ir15m7l8fw3hg7Hn9f65WT-92j3VwQ-nQqIfQz1GRPRTRBNivRTK1rHj2zTRshlwwXz5gUXnzR2lNL5cKqJCxNTef3ZDQJbQeMrJaz4M4_diJV5meFmIAhnnsfzqRcEGz60UH3KN/s640/IMG_3322.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Corn dogs for lunch worked out well and we absolutely had to have cotton candy!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> GAMES!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>I got some temporary circus tatoos from Oriental Trading that were a hit!<br />
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And of course we couldn't have a circus without peanuts!</div>
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My husband downloaded a couple circus/carnival like albums that really helped create a fun circus atmosphere! The music was definitely my favorite part of the party!</div>
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I can't wait until his next birthday party! There are so many fun themes to choose from!</div>
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-Chloe</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw6ZsqxQ0MH1zzvnIS-eTYwLZtZxJqUVLiGqYatBH5LhkR0GtHCIFN2lkK12qnveDNPzvl8xucyidomGwsrVg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-79474403809799173942012-09-01T21:18:00.000-07:002015-10-19T13:05:59.195-07:00Easy Airplane Art for Little Boys RoomMy little guy's room was feeling bare with a big wall of nothingness next to his bed. Like most of my design dilemmas I start by asking myself "what can I buy to fill this space?". I don't know why it takes me so long to start thinking "what can I MAKE to fill this space?". Once I was in the "making" mindset it didn't take long for me to come up with this<br />
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All three canvases were completed start to finish in less than a day and cost next to nothing to make!<br />
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First I looked online for airplane silhouettes (although you could do anything, trucks, robots, etc.). when I decided on three I liked I enlarged them to the size I wanted (it doesn't matter if they are blurry or pixelated) and printed them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOuh6eAZmyvxRsS-prdkOW3Ao1_1tZrifP3TKaQlAF4ThffUltdHRiY1KK3jr0oSQYv3SyzQHmqisLOFso0Ka-OQCqVEtpd-11p_0zpIij3DjZIpLow7OM7Yn62o3mNWXjasfRh52xEkj/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOuh6eAZmyvxRsS-prdkOW3Ao1_1tZrifP3TKaQlAF4ThffUltdHRiY1KK3jr0oSQYv3SyzQHmqisLOFso0Ka-OQCqVEtpd-11p_0zpIij3DjZIpLow7OM7Yn62o3mNWXjasfRh52xEkj/s400/IMG_4030.JPG" width="400" /></a>The pictures I chose were fairly intricate so scissors would not have worked. Luckily I got a nice set of<br />
X-acto knives and a cutting mat for mother's day that I love to use any chance I get!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDwUSzS8WKkRHKPpoUWRmwBAETJIslElvQn01D73ofbYoYUZUPX4UaTtLkWAFW8jrb1_c62iAdcEt-0YeVOxMCgdY9Y6X7b-AgKfN3tD4PZl8Pn3v-9mA_gRmRR2Nj8bjsJLmAmFldfwfD/s1600/IMG_4046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDwUSzS8WKkRHKPpoUWRmwBAETJIslElvQn01D73ofbYoYUZUPX4UaTtLkWAFW8jrb1_c62iAdcEt-0YeVOxMCgdY9Y6X7b-AgKfN3tD4PZl8Pn3v-9mA_gRmRR2Nj8bjsJLmAmFldfwfD/s400/IMG_4046.JPG" width="400" /></a>I painted a couple coats of white in the area I was planning on putting the plane then left the canvases to dry. Next, I set the silhouette cutout on the canvas and went over it again with the white paint. This ensures that the colored paint won't bleed underneath the paper stencil. When that was dry I just painted over the entire canvas, one blue, one grey, and one red (2 or 3 coats depending on the paint color).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJnLZh66SD_NEyDW60kdBNwOuDAEOsim2eGEKLD69FX8srs1350R9skE4CC4Jii51YdWTDgNKC1kvp345ARkjujCdexpe4EcWViZhogHL9mV2j8bb3zxkchDnIL4nB3XzMbrfQdT79ZGc/s1600/IMG_4052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJnLZh66SD_NEyDW60kdBNwOuDAEOsim2eGEKLD69FX8srs1350R9skE4CC4Jii51YdWTDgNKC1kvp345ARkjujCdexpe4EcWViZhogHL9mV2j8bb3zxkchDnIL4nB3XzMbrfQdT79ZGc/s320/IMG_4052.jpg" width="213" /></a>As soon as I finished the last coat of paint I peeled off the paper airplane stencils. It was a little hard to get off in places and I had to use a knife to cut or scrape it from the canvas.<br />
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And that's it! Wasn't it easy? I think I'll try to get white frames for them eventually but I'm not in any rush. I think they look pretty cool, if I do say so myself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwiWy5RI8wL4ucxhfWrgudm02Da3vY89kgRdDWAtjaVm77tHeLsfYPQJcRkgheyjgtG-FErFWeydVohZgSDYulfiPdLLupWvP389Y3stufUi23tDCMsL5JRLEvqEeA0h40lJzsqA-ohTX/s1600/IMG_3990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwiWy5RI8wL4ucxhfWrgudm02Da3vY89kgRdDWAtjaVm77tHeLsfYPQJcRkgheyjgtG-FErFWeydVohZgSDYulfiPdLLupWvP389Y3stufUi23tDCMsL5JRLEvqEeA0h40lJzsqA-ohTX/s640/IMG_3990.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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-Chloe
If you like my style be sure to check out my etsy shop for handmade decor!
<a href="//www.etsy.com/shop/LittleMountainCreek?ref=offsite_badges&utm_source=sellers&utm_medium=badges&utm_campaign=en_isell_1"><img width="200" height="200" src="//img0.etsystatic.com/site-assets/badges/en/en_isell_1.png"></a>Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-25092247216727025732012-08-31T14:04:00.001-07:002012-09-01T23:23:39.067-07:001/2 Bath Makeover<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihA33b9TGRjEHY9hvqAuPBzMhuV78PTmM7YnB16DuS0yRZRRavRuJ6nQG89eWXpUrrk4iS-MfH97Z33b65WpdSRJGryPAuCTDLyxUAUEro8JEUYrAtcSZsSzEYDwnFpk4QQPjL25_OLZD7/s1600/IMG_3972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihA33b9TGRjEHY9hvqAuPBzMhuV78PTmM7YnB16DuS0yRZRRavRuJ6nQG89eWXpUrrk4iS-MfH97Z33b65WpdSRJGryPAuCTDLyxUAUEro8JEUYrAtcSZsSzEYDwnFpk4QQPjL25_OLZD7/s200/IMG_3972.jpg" width="133" /></a>Let me start by just saying that bathroom makeovers are super fun. Not quite as fun as a kitchen makeover, but close.<br />
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I think one reason they are so fun is that they can be simple and still have professional looking results. By making just a few changes we now have a bathroom I adore and one I'm not afraid to let gusts use (unless my 3 year old has just been in there, in which case guest may want to just hold it).<br />
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In this post I will go through all the steps we took to get to where we are now. But first we need to start at the beginning, the orangey oak and laminate counter beginning...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcLLfyTunxvVyWBzUVGqs9MS36yOhnbBS9Y4Germy6B93ib2SWPpKELGvvt4h2Y721yl5HsdX54e_2NWnF85mTOg18e5h-3RCwtQ8WWWyqhbcCYVuunkelZI9UJzAM4cagWSOJSwp72Hu/s1600/IMG_0238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcLLfyTunxvVyWBzUVGqs9MS36yOhnbBS9Y4Germy6B93ib2SWPpKELGvvt4h2Y721yl5HsdX54e_2NWnF85mTOg18e5h-3RCwtQ8WWWyqhbcCYVuunkelZI9UJzAM4cagWSOJSwp72Hu/s400/IMG_0238.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5LjIXIM5vnTuOmNXqhf4lT4xH2fb_NBd7V3HkEwGjPepcH2B2BeWk_m9o_OXqggRA781DAECZ6L8mzpRa9vwEDywYrmY8d2-Dq0hhdnChYQ1wepZ3rSrhtSt6hDmI9HbA4To1pIXX59u/s1600/IMG_0237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5LjIXIM5vnTuOmNXqhf4lT4xH2fb_NBd7V3HkEwGjPepcH2B2BeWk_m9o_OXqggRA781DAECZ6L8mzpRa9vwEDywYrmY8d2-Dq0hhdnChYQ1wepZ3rSrhtSt6hDmI9HbA4To1pIXX59u/s400/IMG_0237.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
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First things first, something needed to be done about that vanity cabinet. Since I am obsessed with white cabinets wherever they may be, you could not convince me that it should be any other color than white. The handles and pulls are from Target (seriously, Target has the prettiest, cheapest options you'll find) and I LOVE them!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSr87F144FUCbskhVWLsnnzoVPM1QtCzD36zGuYGgFe6inOa4g4UGkoB_3DKGe0WyTGIrA8vTkiipmE9egCArH6FEZ_XjKwwi52R6-CAG3yiReGyCCzsUCHtJnwZV3EOu2QTUySayu9bNQ/s1600/IMG_3934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSr87F144FUCbskhVWLsnnzoVPM1QtCzD36zGuYGgFe6inOa4g4UGkoB_3DKGe0WyTGIrA8vTkiipmE9egCArH6FEZ_XjKwwi52R6-CAG3yiReGyCCzsUCHtJnwZV3EOu2QTUySayu9bNQ/s400/IMG_3934.jpg" width="266" /></a><br />
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Next on our list was the walls. A pretty aqua blue and some beadboard wainscoting was exactly what I needed. My husband put up the bead board and moulding and I got to paint.<br />
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How about the hand towel and toilet paper holders? Again, Target. Seriously, go to Target for this stuff!<br />
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It was about at this point in the reno (with counter ripped out and no lights) that I was 38 weeks pregnant, at my dr. appointment trying to convince my doctor that "I get that I am dilated to a 5 and fully effaced, but I HAVE to have one more week to get my bathroom remodel done before this baby comes!". Needless to say, I didn't get that extra week. Amelia came and we were so blissfully in love with our tiny girl we didn't care that the house was torn apart. Home from the hospital and it was back to work!<br />
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Finally off to Home Depot to get the big stuff. The countertop, faucet, mirror, and light fixture.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJpGyKTKIR6BR0aJFecJyC1xRxO_kqAPABhvHjPbkXFMD4wb8MeyuRpcpd-NhnMOikNQ5pERn47CfFLQqJabcYIAIqYwlIDNn5Arc20b2I6W0mKrmhxyETl0zqr1t70HeSjrsTsy_GMYb/s1600/IMG_3954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJpGyKTKIR6BR0aJFecJyC1xRxO_kqAPABhvHjPbkXFMD4wb8MeyuRpcpd-NhnMOikNQ5pERn47CfFLQqJabcYIAIqYwlIDNn5Arc20b2I6W0mKrmhxyETl0zqr1t70HeSjrsTsy_GMYb/s400/IMG_3954.JPG" width="400" /></a> If your vanity is a standard size (chances are it is) there is no need for a custom (and expensive) vanity top. Both Home Depot and Lowe's carry them with faucet holes already drilled (you'll need to pay attention to the holes when picking out your faucet) and they come with the sink basin attached. You can choose from granite or solid surface, I'm a solid surface kind of girl. All you need to do is run some caulk along the top of your vanity and set the top in place, easy peasy. <br />
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The old countertop came up higher along the wall than the new one and the wall was pretty badly damaged. It took a lot of spackling and sanding to get it smooth. My husband thought I was crazy for even trying, he thought we needed a pro for sure but he now admits it looks fabulous! well, he doesn't actually say "fabulous" but you get my point.<br />
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Just need to hang the mirror and install the light fixture (left that for the hubs to do) and voila! A brand new bathroom!<br />
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I forgot to mention hanging the little cabinet. Found it for a few bucks at a yard sale. It was covered in black scuff marks I thought I would never get off but at last I tried a Magic Eraser! Those things really are magic! The cabinet works perfectly in the space and I am just glad I didn't have to repaint it.<br />
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Do you have any tips on getting the most bang for your buck when trying to beautify a bathroom? Tell me about it!<br />
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-ChloeChloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-47849716620194526252012-07-28T22:50:00.000-07:002012-09-01T23:26:12.086-07:00Baby Girl's First Birthday<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Here is what I did for my daughter's first birthday party. Hopefully it can be a source of inspiration.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I bought this set of printables on Esty at <span style="color: #e06666;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BelvaJune">Belva June</a>. </span>She has so many adorable printables! I am just in love with how everything turned out.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">For the banner I just added doilies and ribbon (When in doubt, add more bows!).</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoau9WKiW08WeB756W3Zm7YtML5iSvYUfTVzePw-xbNactJxytQ8EnUOA_QiWB8biPTAIGPyYWMj1szfpmQ0MhKRlvJZ1yxoN_qyZDbYMs0wdlv8bEbLStTz35O-qHwg1-RoNAlgyjeB6/s1600/IMG_2394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoau9WKiW08WeB756W3Zm7YtML5iSvYUfTVzePw-xbNactJxytQ8EnUOA_QiWB8biPTAIGPyYWMj1szfpmQ0MhKRlvJZ1yxoN_qyZDbYMs0wdlv8bEbLStTz35O-qHwg1-RoNAlgyjeB6/s1600/IMG_2394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9hnqALkrL3lnIrYPCX5d9_Xfky_QNPExpvKSWPB314MJsJgBcc58sE8gTJSl8lCYsPlU1tYb2OTJYD7uW3Gxz_zRQZdH6m7lNFhXO8G0diKk9IUECOXE9jwKycO2l9M_5BZFi2pj2sMKb/s1600/IMG_2375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9hnqALkrL3lnIrYPCX5d9_Xfky_QNPExpvKSWPB314MJsJgBcc58sE8gTJSl8lCYsPlU1tYb2OTJYD7uW3Gxz_zRQZdH6m7lNFhXO8G0diKk9IUECOXE9jwKycO2l9M_5BZFi2pj2sMKb/s640/IMG_2375.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9hnqALkrL3lnIrYPCX5d9_Xfky_QNPExpvKSWPB314MJsJgBcc58sE8gTJSl8lCYsPlU1tYb2OTJYD7uW3Gxz_zRQZdH6m7lNFhXO8G0diKk9IUECOXE9jwKycO2l9M_5BZFi2pj2sMKb/s1600/IMG_2375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="color: #e06666;">I folded some light blue card stock to make this hanging decoration for above the table</span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;">I made a ton of tissue paper pom-poms to hang from the ceiling. I ordered the tissue paper from amazon because I needed really big pieces to make really big pom-poms (they are much bigger than they seem in the pictures) along with smaller pom-poms. You can learn to make these <span style="color: #e06666;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/how-to/tissue-paper-pom-poms-how-to">here</a></span> from Martha. The bonus with these is that they are now hanging in my daughter's room above her crib and they look adorable!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">The cup cake toppers and wrappers looked darling with the pink icing and pearl sprinkles.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">With some extra tissue paper, I cut out butterflies and used a needle and thread to string them together.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSeuLlUZFV-4HKd5bdUVxRWTxH1aAhx-wWYgH21O1SrfguDm2sU0YBsliDXlKDdaiWiFlniDSJnFAXw4Ahe0DHfWb3PotMvU5VE15CUI8ZmKy_shMFmE9xVM1HQHJOwr9FKvPqs3L-IcwV/s1600/IMG_2503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSeuLlUZFV-4HKd5bdUVxRWTxH1aAhx-wWYgH21O1SrfguDm2sU0YBsliDXlKDdaiWiFlniDSJnFAXw4Ahe0DHfWb3PotMvU5VE15CUI8ZmKy_shMFmE9xVM1HQHJOwr9FKvPqs3L-IcwV/s640/IMG_2503.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="426" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;">One of my favorite things at the party was this number 1 made of flowers. I just cut a piece of cardboard into the shape of a 1 and glued the flowers onto it. The stems that I cut the towers off of were used to hold the 1 into the flower pot. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">Pretty birthday gifts!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;">The birthday girl's very own cake. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;">And finally, The birthday girl in her party dress!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">Planning this party was so much fun! I can't wait 'till next year!</span></div>Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-88087120759430581412012-07-27T23:11:00.000-07:002012-09-01T23:26:55.793-07:00Television Surround Makeover on a $0 budgetFor the past year or so I have had a love/hate relationship with having a tv in the bedroom. It's not something that gets used a lot (a couple times a week at most) but when we do use it, it's wonderful! One of my favorite things to do is cuddle up in bed to watch Cranford (or some other BBC period drama) and eat the good cookies i've been hiding from the kids.<br />
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So what's the "hate" part of this relationship? Well, tv's aren't pretty. No matter how slim and shiny they are, a room will always look better without a tv in the middle of it. This being the case, our tv has been traveling frequently. It would stay in the bedroom for a bit, be moved to the playroom or even in to a closet, then travel back to the bedroom and around and around again, but not anymore!<br />
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We have decided to permanently keep the tv in our bedroom which means it needs to <i>look</i> like it permanently belongs there. The blank wall surrounding our tv was literally keeping me up at night (yes, I'm crazy, but I know it so it's okay). I wanted a solution fast and most of all free. After two days this is what I came up with.<br />
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The wood is from an old wood pallet we had that I cut, then glued the pieces together with wood glue. Then I painted them white and glued on some pressed leafs and flowers (that I had leftover from my pressed botanical art that I blogged about earlier) and that was it!<br />
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I love the contrast between the rough, raw wood and the flowers. It has a clean country feel that I love for my home.<br />
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Although I do like things to be simple, it is still a little sparse for my taste but for now I am very happy with it. Whenever the day comes that I can get my wonderful husband to finally mount the tv on the wall, I already have plans to make it gorgeous!<br />
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Have you had to come up with a solution to decorate around a tv or other large electronics? I'd love to hear your ideas since I am still trying to figure out my own space!<br />
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<br />Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-88878321650312523852012-06-25T21:23:00.001-07:002012-09-01T23:23:39.076-07:00Stainless Steel Update for Your Dishwasher<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmlh-cSxg6r5els8AhE0pmEyO4e04MWhgeH-MzWA6pPDf0xrOkxN1fcy-htLkdmQwuUxZ6Mqhui1WFZ5TNOWsdoSB7Cr-sJOYL6K36wNUZ75PSYou8ZFB-n-FWvnl_RdLR8kbjf_DOA79/s1600/IMG_3303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmlh-cSxg6r5els8AhE0pmEyO4e04MWhgeH-MzWA6pPDf0xrOkxN1fcy-htLkdmQwuUxZ6Mqhui1WFZ5TNOWsdoSB7Cr-sJOYL6K36wNUZ75PSYou8ZFB-n-FWvnl_RdLR8kbjf_DOA79/s320/IMG_3303.jpg" width="213" /></a><br />
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when we first bought our home, it needed all new kitchen appliances. Well, nearly all. The dishwasher was almost new,it had hardly been used but it was BLACK! I really wanted all stainless steel appliances BUT I didn't want to have to get rid of a perfectly good dishwasher. Luckily I found the perfect solution!<br />
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It's a product called Faux Stainless Steel Film and it is amazing! I ordered it from www.fauxsteel.com. It's basically a big roll of soft but thick, stainless looking material that is adhesive on one side.<br />
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All I had to do was cut it to size, peel off the backing, and carefully stick it to my dishwasher. The website had instructions and I found additional help from youtube.<br />
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While sticking it on I thought for sure I had wasted my money. It was wrinkling and bubbling and just looking like a mess. I didn't think there was anyway it would look decent and that I would just have to peel it off. Then I stood up and to my surprise it looked amazing! All of the little flaws were no longer visible. Only if you bend down and look at it super close can you tell there are any imperfections.<br />
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It cost about 40 bucks which seems a little pricey, but not too bad considering the end results you get.<br />
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The website had a suggested size of film to buy if you are covering a dishwasher, but when I measured I found I could use a much smaller (and cheaper) piece. They also say you can use it on all your appliances but nothing else seems to look good in the end. I would only want it for a dishwasher.<br />
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Sorry I don't have a closeup picture of the dishwasher "before". This one is during the renovation.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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I am very happy with my now matching appliances!</div>
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If you are considering doing this I would love to answer any questions you have!</div>
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Good Luck!</div>
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<br /></div>Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-50308993855507089852012-06-06T20:56:00.000-07:002015-10-19T13:08:44.074-07:00Hall Closet Makeover<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSsc5qdF5WtXlyYsROgY651X_FfcAUNZcwHUZCLD0_BP9nw-_UU1DsWLjXzV1xGlT8OdLPzTUD3E5FMUqxRETd-ad4zPUAhQfmeDJtp406WGEu1TIR_c9frxZlYhuikXTSYRiBomdYG1c/s1600/IMG_2505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSsc5qdF5WtXlyYsROgY651X_FfcAUNZcwHUZCLD0_BP9nw-_UU1DsWLjXzV1xGlT8OdLPzTUD3E5FMUqxRETd-ad4zPUAhQfmeDJtp406WGEu1TIR_c9frxZlYhuikXTSYRiBomdYG1c/s200/IMG_2505.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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We have a hall closet that gets A LOT of use. It's where we store towels, bed linens, diapers, cleaning supplies, craft supplies, and much much more. Even though I worked hard to keep it organized, it was always an eyesore when left open. I wanted it to look nice but most of all I didn't want to have to constantly be reorganizing it to keep it from getting out of control.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmLtRMRtBEhl_6vW4g4QOTcvz7s14TYjTVlTLG5EXIJsKKdPf2NdNCF-VsD42nJkeNAYIpEOCtzM3gmdDucWkMdUdlr94rDi2lwUSC04mD0QQ-rOe4Tq9FpFOekb-LeVRuYsEosTi73iX/s1600/IMG_2513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmLtRMRtBEhl_6vW4g4QOTcvz7s14TYjTVlTLG5EXIJsKKdPf2NdNCF-VsD42nJkeNAYIpEOCtzM3gmdDucWkMdUdlr94rDi2lwUSC04mD0QQ-rOe4Tq9FpFOekb-LeVRuYsEosTi73iX/s200/IMG_2513.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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I decided I needed containers. I would have liked baskets (because they are cute) but let me tell you, baskets are not cheap (especially when you need 14 of them like I did). I searched stores and online for something that would work and eventually went with Snalis boxes from Ikea. Just a simple, white translucent container for $1.99 each. I am really happy with these. I realize now that wicker baskets wouldn't be best for holding cleaning supplies. Unlike wicker baskets, the Snalis boxes are easily cleaned.<br />
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I made labels for each box which may be more for aesthetics than practicality but love them!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZhLAJHe8LYCvpdfIOy9M-t2y7Rt1eKMkWn7-km6qIdzxlR6xamQevPgVhIOVtx0zGPhjh6QSheDrgwvuvgX7W1MlyzZc06h2eZSYZZmPpJXxckA2PVJjKuC4RBDkXAc3feByvBXfWxnU/s1600/IMG_3157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZhLAJHe8LYCvpdfIOy9M-t2y7Rt1eKMkWn7-km6qIdzxlR6xamQevPgVhIOVtx0zGPhjh6QSheDrgwvuvgX7W1MlyzZc06h2eZSYZZmPpJXxckA2PVJjKuC4RBDkXAc3feByvBXfWxnU/s320/IMG_3157.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I also got one larger size version of the Snalis box for $4.99 to hold diapers and wipes (I have 2 kids in diapers so of course I needed something giant!).<br />
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For all the linens (towels, bedding, table cloths, etc.) I chose the Antonius wire basket also from Ikea. They are a shallow, white wire basket at $2.50 a piece. So far they are working out very well.<br />
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Here is the result!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTETvI6RR7a39b7HwVDQ9WUpAi8YyufpTRT-bihl-P24PL9t0_CDtDQAQwJT0MPf8gYGLDiSyWx9AvkiAV6do1YZmJd-z_awvVfJ-CiMJiEQEmyvoDXOHT-Mwo2d6fjBHFw8Su2aoX06yl/s1600/IMG_2505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTETvI6RR7a39b7HwVDQ9WUpAi8YyufpTRT-bihl-P24PL9t0_CDtDQAQwJT0MPf8gYGLDiSyWx9AvkiAV6do1YZmJd-z_awvVfJ-CiMJiEQEmyvoDXOHT-Mwo2d6fjBHFw8Su2aoX06yl/s400/IMG_2505.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmLtRMRtBEhl_6vW4g4QOTcvz7s14TYjTVlTLG5EXIJsKKdPf2NdNCF-VsD42nJkeNAYIpEOCtzM3gmdDucWkMdUdlr94rDi2lwUSC04mD0QQ-rOe4Tq9FpFOekb-LeVRuYsEosTi73iX/s1600/IMG_2513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmLtRMRtBEhl_6vW4g4QOTcvz7s14TYjTVlTLG5EXIJsKKdPf2NdNCF-VsD42nJkeNAYIpEOCtzM3gmdDucWkMdUdlr94rDi2lwUSC04mD0QQ-rOe4Tq9FpFOekb-LeVRuYsEosTi73iX/s400/IMG_2513.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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I love my hall closet so much I kind of like leaving the door open! With a specific box for everything, the closet is always neat with no need to clean it out. Maybe you are bored now, but maybe you want to makeover your own closet! Go for it and let me know how it goes!<br />
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If you like my style be sure to check out my etsy shop!
<a href="//www.etsy.com/shop/LittleMountainCreek?ref=offsite_badges&utm_source=sellers&utm_medium=badges&utm_campaign=en_isell_1"><img width="200" height="200" src="//img0.etsystatic.com/site-assets/badges/en/en_isell_1.png"></a>Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-25676130680561048672012-05-30T21:26:00.000-07:002012-09-01T23:27:24.372-07:00DIY: Pressed Botanical Art<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfMxEdLrs_2by5On8cN8Dflu9ZRx5NmDlv45HHuzsKlj7Rxftki4njUFaxi1r9x5_H-JATUuB31KPjb8zN6_7xHftJZh95uu23ZV-q2gH1kc4vBOUPcrQTG1mydS9aQU6gdBdhqF0ZIsV2/s1600/IMG_3084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfMxEdLrs_2by5On8cN8Dflu9ZRx5NmDlv45HHuzsKlj7Rxftki4njUFaxi1r9x5_H-JATUuB31KPjb8zN6_7xHftJZh95uu23ZV-q2gH1kc4vBOUPcrQTG1mydS9aQU6gdBdhqF0ZIsV2/s200/IMG_3084.jpg" width="133" /></a><br />
Like a lot of people, I had the problem of not knowing what to do with a certain big blank wall in our home. I originally wanted a set of botanical prints to hang there, but I couldn't find any I liked under $200.00 (way out of my price range). Finally, I realized I didn't need to look beyond my own back yard or spend more than $18.00 (all I had to buy were the frames!) to get the look I wanted. In fact, I am so in love with my set of pressed botanicals that I am sure glad I wasn't able to find cheap prints!<br />
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Here is how I did it:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBqzjIUd9af3ADVYvj65ARAmIU5ynYzNzsX_xJ8P8PtPY5Bhyi0CR1uOex8PWCaiVWaoa3BqhE7QvFWZ36AQQHg1jKUsJCIECK4lMTQpTmVQql1q4gf1fQOUxJYdR4qDmzOXAEXgNhh-1/s1600/IMG_3026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBqzjIUd9af3ADVYvj65ARAmIU5ynYzNzsX_xJ8P8PtPY5Bhyi0CR1uOex8PWCaiVWaoa3BqhE7QvFWZ36AQQHg1jKUsJCIECK4lMTQpTmVQql1q4gf1fQOUxJYdR4qDmzOXAEXgNhh-1/s200/IMG_3026.JPG" width="200" /></a>Materials Needed:<br />
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plants you wish to press<br />
several telephone books<br />
paper towels<br />
white glue<br />
small paint brush<br />
paper (to mount plants on)<br />
picture frames<br />
paint (if you want to paint your frames)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1st-</b> </span> you need to gather your plants. You can use what grows around your house or maybe collect plant life from meaningful places (i.e., where you got engaged, a favorite hiking trail, etc.).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNyUkKcAe-Ly89M6PoGXudPpBKIOkc7SjXWF2szXKvhLX58lqLf4p8yWhW7ncxPpR1W2UGabtzsxDVh-h1IVrqYqVjJUMcNdMy0V1YxmlCuBMJMe4LHG3Liek7SnVE43GyTxWDwpY4VaCZ/s1600/IMG_3100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZMSfxeRLoFpnmAFNbkvzB9B0A3mf-lhBibnkucMqw7n-SsP5LkuuH14Ixgu9XNZC_ccd_XnBD373Jfk_Jb-WKFB_71Sng-cBFCTZroIZTDIO-WBT-TNH9z-dH8Ac7JfAuBHH2-7ylNWa/s1600/IMG_3106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> Here are the plants I chose from our yard.<br />
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Keep in mind that most flowers loose a lot of their color when dried, but can still be beautiful. Also, the thicker the plant is, the longer it needs to be pressed.<br />
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Pick more plants than you will need. Not all will work out the way you want or you may not be happy with the color once dried.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2nd-</span></b> It's time to press!<br />
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Gather your phonebooks (I used 3 large phone books and 2 small). Place a paper towel on both pages of an open book. Then, lay the plant in the way you want it to be pressed and gently close the book. You can fit several plants in one phonebook. Just be sure to space them enough apart that the pages of the book are smooth and flat.<br />
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When you have finished, leave the phonebooks in a place they won't be disturbed with heavy objects on top (I used several large books).<br />
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It's a good idea to check on them after a few days. If the paper towels are damp you should replace them with new towels.<br />
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Pressing may take between 3 days and 3 weeks depending on the plants and your climate. Where I live it is very dry but I waited 3 weeks before removing any of my plants just to be safe.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3rd-</span></b> Mounting your plants onto paper.<br />
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Choose a nice, heavyweight paper for this (I like to use something with texture). Then play around with how to lay out your plants (this may take a while).<br />
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When you are happy with how everything looks, it's time to glue. Put a little glue in a bowl and use a small paint brush to apply the glue to the back of the plants. For more delicate flowers it may be easier to use a spray adhesive (I only used white glue because I didn't want to spend the money on the spray). Next, just flip over, lightly press down on the plant, and leave to dry.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4th-</span></b> All you need to do is frame them and hang them!<br />
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I got my frames at Wal-Mart for $3.00 each. They were a very ugly color of oak so I painted them. You could find frames at a dollar store, thrift store, or you may already have some in a closet!<br />
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Here is the finished product! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9Lw_O3ICPWEl0gxLq5ogqy1BiP3P-WXBNNk3j7t0rRv7lywYrvxLgCmHiFcXZq1sOro1xi5uaVH-qoT2Lq3Bkzx-IsWp1-WvjA3DE-r89pKFci1_VDefwvzYByquMqTou6Y-gqXuWj_0/s1600/IMG_3080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9Lw_O3ICPWEl0gxLq5ogqy1BiP3P-WXBNNk3j7t0rRv7lywYrvxLgCmHiFcXZq1sOro1xi5uaVH-qoT2Lq3Bkzx-IsWp1-WvjA3DE-r89pKFci1_VDefwvzYByquMqTou6Y-gqXuWj_0/s320/IMG_3080.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE-BZdyEWuYVuxNJbJvSTgC5Zp2L2J09S_OdS1VT4yDehZgkjOLd6ZusBzaO7oPWELL2bINGgEAhROV-6M-qfPqo7zvM6aoWldLek3aqjfCjYgPG-Y876Ta95zIm2cqWakFjh-nv0lqrm7/s1600/IMG_3067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE-BZdyEWuYVuxNJbJvSTgC5Zp2L2J09S_OdS1VT4yDehZgkjOLd6ZusBzaO7oPWELL2bINGgEAhROV-6M-qfPqo7zvM6aoWldLek3aqjfCjYgPG-Y876Ta95zIm2cqWakFjh-nv0lqrm7/s320/IMG_3067.jpg" width="213" /></a><br />
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I had a lot of fun making these and I am so happy with the results! I hope this has inspired you to create your own pressed botanical art!<br />
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<br />Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7901357076508912249.post-6566082743744167782012-05-28T22:08:00.001-07:002013-08-31T12:45:35.620-07:005 quick and easy steps to a more beautiful kitchenMaybe I'm just crazy, but clutter makes me anxious. And to me, kitchen clutter is the worst kind. How are we supposed to really cook in here with all this stuff everywhere?!<br />
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We all spend a lot of time in our kitchens, so here are 5 easy changes anyone can do to make that space more enjoyable to be in! I wish I could say I have always followed these guide lines, but I have really only made these changes in the past few years.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">#1- Keep dish washing supplies out of sight</span><br />
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There's nothing pretty about an old dish brush, bottle of soap, or dish gloves. So why do we leave it out on the counter all day? There is no need to, so put it away! (rhyme not intended;) </div>
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I have a sort of "secret compartment" for my dish brush. The false drawer front below the sink is hinged at the bottom so it can be tipped open. It has two little cubbies attached that hold my dish brush, bottle brush, and sink plugs. You certainly don't need a "secret compartment"though. It is as easy as installing a hook or wire basket below the sink to have a handy place to store brushes, sponges, and gloves.<br />
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As for the bottle of dish soap, I have eliminated that all together with a built in soap pump. They are cheap , easy to install (depending on the material of your countertops) and very easy to refill. If this is not an option, just put the bottle away when you are done. It really does make all the difference in the world to keep these things out of sight while they are not in use.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">#2- Invest in an attractive, reusable soap pump</span><br />
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Unlike a dish brush, hand soap needs to be on your countertop at all times so it should look like it belongs in your kitchen.<br />
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I splurged on this Williams-Sonoma pair of hand soap and lotion. I love the stainless steel caddy and pumps that match my faucet and appliances plus they're yellow(the accent color in my kitchen)! Like I mentioned, they were expensive so (don't tell anyone) I've been refilling the soap with a big bottle of generic lemon soap. The lotion just isn't being used as fast so I haven't had to deal with that (yet). I just love the way they look so for me it was worth it.<br />
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A reusable pump normally sold for bathroom use would work perfectly as well.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">#3- Don't use your refrigerator as a bulletin board</span></div>
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Well, at least don't use the <b>front</b> of your refrigerator as a bulletin board.</div>
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I use the side of mine which is not normally seen (it was a little difficult to get in a position to take this picture).</div>
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You could also use the inside of a cupboard door as a place for grocery lists, wedding invitations, and reminders. </div>
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With it clean and clear you will feel like you have a brand new fridge!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">#4- Clean your stovetop everyday</span></div>
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This one is so simple but often times gets overlooked. As you are wiping down your countertops just wipe down your stovetop as well. It takes less than a minute when done regularly. Occasionally (like once every few months) I use spray on oven cleaner to get the cooked-on greasy grime off, but I try not to use it too often because of the fumes. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">#5- Keep contents of glass-door cupboards neat and neutral in color</span></div>
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I like to keep the dishes in mine mostly white or clear glass with a couple pops of color here and there. Keeping the colors neutral helps it appear less cluttered. </div>
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These are all things that work for our family and they may not be perfect for everyone.<br />
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Do you have any simple tips you use to keep your kitchen looking it's best?</div>
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Chloehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17261401120992808752noreply@blogger.com12