Updating on a Budget

So, I'm totally over the cheap Target TV Armoire in my Living Room. It is looking a little worn and I'm feeling overwhelmed by all of the wood furniture in the room. But, what to do? I just came across this article from Southern Living - the catalyst for my next home improvement project. It features a creative way to get "an upscale look for a bargain price." Upholster it! Sounds crazy, huh? Well, nailheads and fabric have been on my mind as of late and what a great, inexpensive way to update the cabinet and ditch some wood! Here are the photos of their example.




Along the same lines, I've been considering the storage situation in our home and my ever growing china, serving piece, and glassware collection (with no real end in sight- I love this stuff). My thought has been to get a bigger hutch/buffet- our dining room can handle a larger scale piece and I can definitely handle more storage space. Another large piece of furniture isn't exactly in my budget these days, though. So, how about this gem of an idea from Southern Living as well? Install shelves and have a kick pleat skirt made to cover the goods. My only concern? Baby proofing. Any suggestions?

Little People

I was just introduced to this artist out of the UK by Beach Bungalow 8. Some of it is a bit disturbing, but overall really interesting (and humourous) stuff. Check it out.

Citrus & Pebble

Here's my latest inspiration for our Master Bedroom. Not that we are at all in the market to update- the nursery is kind of the big priority right now... But who can resist Brocade Home?

The Black Apple

Found these prints by The Black Apple at Etsy- love them for a girl's room!

Take a Moment...

These bears have the right idea.
Slow down and enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going too fast - you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.
Eddie Cantor
Via Ethos

Nancy Drew

For as long as I can remember, I've wanted to collect all of the old Nancy Drew books. And now that we know we're having a girl, I'm all the more motivated so that she can experience the thrill of a Nancy Drew Mystery. Forget the new ones and all of the spin off series, I want the classics. Or, at least, what I thought were the classics. However, I've just discovered that the ones we grew up reading were actually revised editions (the first 34 that is). From 1959 through 1978 the Stratemeyer Syndicate removed stereotypes, outdated language and generally updated and shortened the stories for modern readers. So, apparently we've been missing out and didn't even know it. I just purchased the above titles on Ebay, and I'm pretty confident they are the revised versions. Oh, well, I have a few years to work on my, er, her, collection before she's able to read. Check out the Nancy Drew Library for all you'll ever need to know about every girl's favorite sleuth.

Nursery Art

Just came across this great idea for art in the nursery from designer Windsor Smith. I'll have to keep my eyes open for vintage letters at the flea market this weekend.

Welcome.

So, a variety of circumstances has gifted me with a few months of less chaotic time before our baby girl is scheduled to arrive in November. So, I'm jumping on the bandwagon and starting a blog. Thanks to Anjuli for making the first leap. May this become, most of all, a place for me to collect my varied self and catalog my inspiration. And, maybe, hopefully, a source of inspiration for others...