tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72061009731818494202024-03-13T15:56:39.603-04:00The Abundant AbodeMy journey to living the abundant life.Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-75840739173076016952014-02-12T10:58:00.000-05:002014-02-14T16:49:11.165-05:00Creating a Comfortable Nursery<div style="text-align: justify;">
A nursery is the place new parents will spend much of their time with their newborn. It is a room that the child will grow into, and will need to be ready for the ever changing needs of a rapidly growing little munchkin. There were several musts on my list when creating our nursery, and now that we have been home with our little one for over two months I have a little more insight as to what makes for a cozy comfortable space.</div>
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/overall_zps0c32e3e0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/overall_zps0c32e3e0.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">Nursery Rockers, Gliders and Everything in Between</span></strong><br />
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Gone are the days of the plain wooden rocking chair as the only option to feed and rock the little one off to dreamland. Initially I found myself swooning over a handful of modern rockers. While the form of these options would have been a perfect match for the look I wanted, I luckily decided that the function would leave a lot to be desired for myself and my husband. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/Herman-Miller-C2AE-Eames-RAR-Molded-Plastic-Rocking-Chair_zps4e62bb38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/Herman-Miller-C2AE-Eames-RAR-Molded-Plastic-Rocking-Chair_zps4e62bb38.jpg" height="273" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.allmodern.com/Herman-Miller-%C2%AE-Eames-RAR-Molded-Plastic-Rocking-Chair-RAR-HML1161.html?refid=GX14010112996.Eames+rocker~e&position=1s2&network=g&pcrid=14010112996&device=c&gclid=CLfZv8K2xLwCFXNo7AodKygA8Q" target="_blank">Eames Rocker from All Modern</a></td></tr>
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Many people can sacrifice a little comfort for aesthetic...that is how four inch pumps exist! However, for others function comes before form. Therefore my search continued as I knew I wanted a fully upholstered chair with a high enough back that could support my head. Things to consider when searching for your perfect nursery chair should include comfort, cleanability, affordability and long-term post-nursery plans. While we live in a "disposable" world, I knew I wanted to find a chair that could be used in another room once the little one transitions into a big boy room. Some gliders even come as slipcovered options {like the one from Crate & Barrel below} making cleanability and future reupholstering a breeze.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/chairoptions_zps0773b8b6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/chairoptions_zps0773b8b6.jpg" height="234" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/sedgwick-recliner-g573/?pkey=cliving-room-seating&cm_src=living-room-seating||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-" target="_blank">West Elm</a> | <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-furniture/28101475.jsp?cm_sp=Grid-_-28101475-_-Large_2" target="_blank">Anthropologie</a> | <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/luxe-slipcovered-swivel-glider/s132078" target="_blank">Crate & Barrel</a></td></tr>
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Then there is deciding between a rocker or a glider, and deciphering the features such as swivel and recline. If you forgo the reclining option be sure to include an ottoman with your chair, and consider a non-matching ottoman to add a little punch of color or pattern. We chose one that doubles as storage for blankets and toys. For convenience we have a <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50227973/" target="_blank">rolling cart</a> as a side table for extra swaddling blankets, burp cloths and sheets as well as his sound machine. An industrial style bin holds an abundance of books for our bedtime reading.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/chairandbooks-crop_zps88da75a6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/chairandbooks-crop_zps88da75a6.jpg" height="640" width="499" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/graham-glider-g667/?pkey=cliving-room-seating&cm_src=living-room-seating||NoFacet-_-NoFacet" target="_blank">Graham Glider from West Elm</a></td></tr>
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<strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">Deck the Walls</span></strong></div>
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Wall color, finish and decor play a vital role in creating the atmosphere of any nursery. Tranquil colors can help create a soothing space for feedings and sleeping; remember that calm colors do not have to be muted. Bright blues and greens are wonderful options for a playful space that still reads peaceful and serene. Even if you are having a little girl, you no longer are expected to use pink, purple or yellow. Feel free to pull in traditional boy colors like pastel blue, navy blue or turquoise.</div>
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There is more than just color to think about for your walls. Features such as beadboard or board and batten can do more than upgrade the look of a room. By using a semi-gloss paint on these features that are often on the lower part of the wall, an easily washable surface is created. Once that little bundle of joy is on the move that added benefit will be much appreciated. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/CribandGlider_zps7e6900a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/CribandGlider_zps7e6900a1.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://theabundantabode.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-nursery-walls-part-ii-board-and.html" target="_blank">DIY Board and Batten</a></td></tr>
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Many nursery guides state that because a baby's eyes take a while to achieve 20/20 status it is not important to add art or decor early on. Perhaps there is merit in that; however, our two month old has been fascinated by his artwork for weeks. Even if they do not see it as mom and dad do, art can provide great accent decor opportunities and provides contrasting elements for baby to gaze towards. Most of our nursery art is DIY to keep our overall budget for the space reasonable.</div>
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/art_zps93880cf5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/art_zps93880cf5.jpg" height="234" width="640" /></a></div>
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If DIY art is not for you there are wonderful options including 3-D decor available for all design motifs! Look at these adorable selections from <a href="http://www.rhbabyandchild.com/catalog/category/products.jsp?categoryId=rhbc_cat337024" target="_blank">RH Baby & Child</a>.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/RH_walldecor_zpsf8a61391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/RH_walldecor_zpsf8a61391.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">Patterns, Textures and Accents</span></strong><br />
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<span style="color: black;">While some may becoming weary of the chevron craze, do not dismiss this pattern as an option for your nursery. In just a few short weeks of birth that little baby will find zig-zag patterns fascinating. High contrast patterns in general will amuse the little ones non-yet developed sight, so even if chevron is not your thing look for bold patterns on subtle backgrounds or vice-versa. Just as in any space, use a couple different patterns to keep it interesting. We have stripes {the roman shades}, chevron {drapery and crib sheet}, and dots {pillow and crib skirt}. Though it sounds like a lot for one room, by selecting fabrics that all contain navy and using each fabric in specific quantites, those three patterns read well together.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Mix up your textures as well; microfiber and velvet-like upholsteries are great for gliders, and washable cottons or poly-blends for pillow covers and crib skirts will prove durable compared to many dry-clean only options out there. Of course the occasional ruffle, sequin or furry accent pillow for the glider can add that little extra pop - an accent pillow is the perfect place to ignore practicality! Look at these fun pillows from <a href="http://www.landofnod.com/kids-throw-pillows/kids-bedding/1" target="_blank">Land of Nod</a>. I may have to go grab that little brotosarous! If we had a little girl I would have definitely gone for that pink ruffle pillow.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/pillows_zpsf434f394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2014%20Posts/pillows_zpsf434f394.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="color: black;">When determining your window treatment look for black-out lined options that will help keep the room as dark as possible when it's time for baby to be asleep. Layering <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90221276/" target="_blank">roller shades</a> or cordless roman shades with drapery panels is a way to incorporate additional patterns and also provides multiple light filtering options. <a href="http://www.blinds.com/control/product/productID,8683" target="_blank">Grasscloth, woven wood, or bamboo</a> are also great shade options that can add an earthy texture to your space. To save some money, while we purchased the cordless roman shades from <a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/harper-roman-shade/?pkey=cwindow-roman" target="_blank">Pottery Barn Kids</a>, and I sewed the drapery panels myself.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/completeddrapery1_zpsb7d858e1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/completeddrapery1_zpsb7d858e1.jpg" height="640" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://theabundantabode.blogspot.com/2013/10/diy-blackout-lined-drapery-panels.html" target="_blank">DIY Blackout Lined Drapery Panels</a></td></tr>
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Have you recently welcomed a little bundle of joy into your family? What have you noticed about your space that has been a success, and are there any aspects that need a do-over? For more information on products in our nursery visit my post, <a href="http://theabundantabode.blogspot.com/2013/11/revealing-nursery.html" target="_blank">Revealing the Nursery.</a> For more tips on creating a comfortable nursery visit <a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/info/home/the-most-comfortable-chairs-for-your-nursery/" target="_blank">One Kings Lane,</a> and don't forget to check them out for unique accents for your nursery!</div>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-78122001840888566022014-01-08T16:08:00.000-05:002014-01-08T16:08:12.426-05:00And I was doing so well with posting...<br />
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The third trimester was quite busy, so I went on hiatus. From wrapping up little things around the house, to projects at work, to by bi-weekly OB appointments I had little free time. Yes - bi-weekly appointments with ultrasounds at each one. The upside to being high risk for some scary complications is that I was able to see my little munchkin a whole lot! Even better upside is that most of the complications the doctors were concerned about we didn't ever encounter, and our little bundle arrived December 4th!<br />
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/L-Dubs/birth_zpsf6046528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/L-Dubs/birth_zpsf6046528.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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And this is the two of us on his actual due date December 15th...<br />
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-47785738122629852672013-11-08T19:00:00.000-05:002013-11-10T09:08:00.317-05:00Revealing the Nursery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is finally done! Our little one will be here December 10th, and his room is all ready for him. His mother and father on the other hand...not so sure.</div>
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Compared to the empty dingy room that was there when we moved into the house the nursery is now bright, colorful, and simply modern. {And compared to when we moved in my belly is 15" larger...hello baby.}</div>
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/Before-After_zps396bb90b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/Before-After_zps396bb90b.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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As you know I'm not one for over accessorizing...sure it looks great in a magazine photo, but not practical for my life. I have better things to do than spend hours dusting a bunch of little items! The wall shelves provide just enough stylizing for me. I also liked being able to reuse those which have been sitting in a closet since we moved. (From Target back in 2006 - used in my college exit show!)</div>
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/overall_zps0c32e3e0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/overall_zps0c32e3e0.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The little silver items on the shelves are from my mother-in-law. On the L shelf is a little silver cup she had engraved when my husband was born with his name and birthday. On the W shelf is a matching pewter cup she had engraved with L-Dubs first name as well as a pewter rattle. <br />
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/CribandGlider_zps7e6900a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/CribandGlider_zps7e6900a1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The glider and the crib are my favorite purchases. I decided not to compromise on what I wanted for those two items. The glider is <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/graham-glider-g667/?pkey=cliving-room-seating&cm_src=living-room-seating||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-" target="_blank">West Elm</a> and the crib is <a href="http://www.babyletto.com/hudson-3-in-1-convertible-crib/" target="_blank">Babyletto</a>, but I purchased locally at <a href="http://www.newbabyproducts.net/" target="_blank">New Baby Products</a> since they had it in stock, and it's always good to support local business! I love my little aqua rolling cart by the crib and glider. Perfect for stashing extra swaddle blankets and burp cloths as well as the sound machine and monitor. <br />
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/chairandbooks-crop_zps88da75a6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/chairandbooks-crop_zps88da75a6.jpg" height="400" width="312" /></a></div>
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The art wall is the bane of my existance...okay not really. I just cannot ever be happy with these type of projects because I know what I really wanted, but could not justify spending over $400 for it all. So...other than the vintage camera sculpture art it is all DIY...the center one is actually a wallcovering strike-off from work...The art above the crib was also DIY. Another truly devastating compromise was the dresser. Well maybe not devastating, but certainly annoying. It is super hard to find dressers between 50-58" wide! All the ones I loved were over 60" and that wouldn't fit between the bedroom door and the closet door...I thought my life was over. Perhaps that was the hormones... </div>
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/DresserWall2_zpsfbfa4fe4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Final%20Nursery/DresserWall2_zpsfbfa4fe4.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/WShelf_zps128c85d3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/WShelf_zps128c85d3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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For some of the other items:</div>
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<a href="http://theabundantabode.blogspot.com/2013/10/diy-blackout-lined-drapery-panels.html" target="_blank">Window Treatments</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Umbra-Candid-Three-Piece-Vintage-Camera-Wall-Decor-Set-470165-660-UMB1895.html" target="_blank">3D Vintage Camera Art</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/harper-chevron-stripe-crib-sheeting-boys/?pkey=bboys-nursery-sheeting&" target="_blank">Chevron Crib Sheet</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/South-Shore-Fynn-6-Drawer-Dresser-3237027-TH2646.html" target="_blank">Dresser</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80225524/" target="_blank">Rug</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-arc-lamp/-/A-14727399#prodSlot=medium_1_26" target="_blank">Floor Lamp</a></div>
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<a href="http://theabundantabode.blogspot.com/2013/10/diy-blackout-lined-drapery-panels.html" target="_blank">Aqua Cart by Crib & Glider</a></div>
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Crib Skirt & Glider Pillow DIY - Info to Come</div>
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Now all the nursery needs is the baby!! </div>
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<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2013/11/link-party-palooza-weeks-fantastic-giveaways.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FOivM+%28Tatertots+and+Jello%29" target="_blank">TT&J Link-Party-Palooza</a> / <a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2013/11/10/that-diy-party-42/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed" target="_blank">DIY Showoff</a> / </div>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-23117705751304648212013-10-18T19:00:00.000-04:002013-10-29T07:53:47.676-04:00DIY Blackout Lined Drapery PanelsHooray for Friday! As I'm approaching 33 weeks preggo on Sunday the overwhelming exhaustion has certainly found a way into my everyday life. (As in I thought I posted this last Friday and JUST realized I did not!) I could seriously do nap time everyday, but there is no time for that! Maybe I'll give in to that in a couple more weeks...I've been told I should get my sleep now since I won't EVER SLEEP AGAIN....well that's an exaggeration. Eventually, maybe...when he is grown up, out of the house and married I may be able to sleep again.<br />
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<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/completeddrapery1_zpsb7d858e1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/completeddrapery1_zpsb7d858e1.jpg" height="640" width="490" /></a></div>
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On to other things like an almost completed nursery! A few weeks ago you had a sneak peak at the window treatments with the non-DIY roman shades. Initially I was going to have custom ones made, but I realized Pottery Barn sold ones very similar to what I wanted for only $148 per window. I couldn't pass that up. I considered only having these shades as the window treatment; I love the simplicity of it. However, given my window condition there is a lot of light leak along the sides of the window. I opted to add drapery panels to the side. There is a lot of talk about not having full length drapery panels in nurseries, but I will hope for the best. If this child is like his father then we probably won't have a problem with him swinging from the drapery...if he is like me...well that could be an issue. 50-50 shot, right?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/RomanShadeHardware_zps17f5aff2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/RomanShadeHardware_zps17f5aff2.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Underside of Pottery Barn Roman Shade Showing Mechanism</td></tr>
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Why stop at just a drapery panel? I though I should go ahead and make it a blackout lined drapery panel...really should have done this project before my belly expanded 12". I could have done this as a video DIY and provided everyone with a laugh as I attempted to crawl around on the floor to lay this out and iron over the hems. This also would have been good to do before furniture went into the nursery since that was the only empty room with tons of floor space to lay out the fabric; while this is a relatively easy project it is a lot of fabric to deal with! <br />
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First you will want to have a space (the floor or a very large table) that you can lay out the fabric. My drapery fabric is from Premier Prints, so the 54" fabric is actually 55" wide edge to edge. The blackout fabric is from Hobby Lobby and is 53" wide which gave the perfect 1" overlap on each side. After ironing the chevron fabric and cutting the length I needed I laid it face down on the floor. I determined the length by ceiling height + 2" double turned bottom hem + 1" double fold top hem + 5" double fold top for drapery pole pocket.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/1-layitout_zps240ce94c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/1-layitout_zps240ce94c.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric face down plus blackout lining face up</td></tr>
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A double fold hem is when you simply fold over the fabric and stitch. A double turned hem is when you fold over the fabric and then fold it over once more, so you are folding then "turning." They really should have come up with better lingo for all that!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/3-afewstripsofstitchwitch_zpse9704e0d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/3-afewstripsofstitchwitch_zpse9704e0d.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stitch Witch in lieu of pinning</td></tr>
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Several months ago I did similar sized panels for our master bedroom that were not blackout lined. It is much easier to lay out the fabric, iron over the hem and then go sew the hem when you are not worried about keeping the lining fabric in place. Sure a "professional" would pin it in place, but that is a lot of pins poking out everywhere...and this fabric has a white background...and I am a bit of a klutz...so it seemed like a bad idea. Light bulb moment! I'll just use a few strips of stitch witch (or whatever brand you like) to hold it all in place for me to sew the hems. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/4-IronDoublefold_zpsf5ae3097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/4-IronDoublefold_zpsf5ae3097.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iron all your hems in place; use 4-6" strip of stitch witch every 12-24"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/5-CompletedDoubleFoldatSide_zps0eaf51c2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/5-CompletedDoubleFoldatSide_zps0eaf51c2.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double Fold Hem Along Sides</td></tr>
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At the top of the drapery I cut back the blackout on the portion I will fold over to create the pocket for the pole - no sense in having the extra weight. Slight warning: given the thickness and weight of the completed panel the pocket style may not have been the best idea...certainly the easiest, but it does not hang as effortlessly as I would like. I plan to go back and either add grommets or "button holes" to attach drapery hooks...once I don't have this belly in the way!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/61a11b94-d73b-4602-aa17-02bcd7897114_zps3c4a6a3d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/61a11b94-d73b-4602-aa17-02bcd7897114_zps3c4a6a3d.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of Drapery Panel</td></tr>
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The top is a multistep process. First I did the same double fold method as the sides and sewed that hem in place along with the other two sides and bottom. Then I double checked my length by measuring the distance from the floor to the mounted drapery pole in order to determine how much I needed to fold over the top for the pocket. Once I determined that distance I ironed that fold and did a quick stitch across. If you are a more experience seamstress then you would do a blind stitch, but I'm not that experienced! A blind stitch is barely noticeable on the finished side of the drapery as it just slightly grabs the fabric rather than the needle going all the way through the fabric and back to the other side.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/polepocket_zpsb2738fe7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/polepocket_zpsb2738fe7.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pole Pocket</td></tr>
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Next week I should have all the artwork up and I can reveal the COMPLETED NURSERY! <br />
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<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2013/10/link-party-palooza-burlap-blue-giveaway.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FOivM+%28Tatertots+and+Jello%29" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">TT&J Link Party Palooza / </span></a><u><span style="color: #0066cc; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2013/10/27/diy-party-40/" target="_blank">DIY Showoff /</a> <a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/tutorials/tutorials-tips-link-party-132.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+thestoriesofa2z%2FVisw+%28Home+Stories+A+to+Z%29" target="_blank">Home Stories A to Z</a> / </span></u></div>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-46125557551762098052013-10-04T12:29:00.001-04:002013-10-09T14:13:32.915-04:00Electrical Outlets and Switches Perfect for Kids Rooms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/InstallingIlluminatedSwitch_zps2903254d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/InstallingIlluminatedSwitch_zps2903254d.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our 1991 house is covered in almond outlets and pole switches. We replaced just the switch plate covers when we moved in because the almond is so dingy looking. For the nursery I wanted an <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Leviton-Decora-15-Amp-Illuminated-Switch-White-R72-05611-2WS/202035002#.UkNWPoZWbK0" target="_blank">illuminated switch</a>, and also placed one of these in our hallway at the top of the stairs. It's nice not to have to feel around in the dark for that switch. {Especially the one at the top of our stairs - I've come close to stepping a bit too far before!}<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/100684055" target="_blank">Tamper Resistant Outlet</a></td></tr>
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The other item we updated from 1990's almond are the duplex outlets. We used these <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Masque-1-Gang-Duplex-Wall-Plate-White-2000W-10/100143773?N=c6r3Z1z140hbZ1z0v9zgZ1z0v9qg#.UkNM3oZWbK0" target="_blank">handy duplex wallplates</a> in other areas of the house when we first moved. Eventually we will replace all our duplexes that are in "kid areas," but for now we focused on the nursery as the practice round. Rather than using those little plastic inserts to protect L-Dubs from electricuting himself, we installed tamper-resistant outlets. The outlets come in a 10-pack at Home Depot for $19.99 plus $5.90 for the 10 pack of wall plates. I did the slightly nicer kind because I like the clean look of the flush face. </div>
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If you have installed a hardwired light before then you can do both of these updates. If you have common sense than you can also do this! {If you stink at following instructions, then please leave electrical up to a professional - don't burn down your house.}<br />
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First, turn off the power. You will need to do this at your breaker box. Just turning a light switch to off does not mean the power is off; electrical current is still running through the wires. As additional precaution, use a voltage tester to ensure electricity is not running through the wires before beginning work.<br />
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Second, remove the face plate and screws from the oulet you are replacing. When you pull it from the wall it will look like this:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/OldOutlet_zps7d18247a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/OldOutlet_zps7d18247a.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Outlet Hanging from Wall - Oh the Dust</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/Neutral-HotWires_switch_zpsf5585316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/Neutral-HotWires_switch_zpsf5585316.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wires at Light Switch (both are black - they just had paint on them from builder)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/GroundedWire_Switch_zps12531cf0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/GroundedWire_Switch_zps12531cf0.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grounding Wire on new Light Switch</td></tr>
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A typical duplex will have 5 total wires and a typical light switch will have 3. The important thing to note is the location of the white and black wires in relation to the finish of the screws for the duplex. This is intentional. "Hot" wires {which are usually black, sometimes colored} attach to the brass screws {<strong><u>b</u></strong>lack to <strong><u>b</u></strong>rass). The "neutral" wires {white} attach to the silver screws. Our new outlets said on the back plate which went to which side, but it is the most critical thing to know here. Doing this incorrectly is what will send sparks flying. In addition to the two white and two black wires is the copper grounding wire which attaches to the green screw {<strong><u>g</u></strong>round to <u><strong>g</strong></u>reen}. Also, some outlets may have slightly different wiring if the top or bottom outlet is switch operated. {If you have a light switch that can operate a lamp plugged into that outlet.} A typical light switch will just have the two black wires and the copper grounding wire. There will be more wires if you have a light switch that operates more than one light, and that will require a different switch than what I have shown.</div>
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Third, once you have made note of how the existing outlet is attached then you can loosen the screws and pull out the wires. Many outlets have a little hole to push a pin through to "release" the wire, but it takes a bit of a tug as well. At least to me it was more of a tug than I expected.<br />
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Fourth, attach the wires to your new outlet. Remember: white to silver, <strong><u>b</u></strong>lack to <strong><u>b</u></strong>rass, copper/<strong><u>g</u></strong>round to <u><strong>g</strong></u>reen. Do a gentle tug on the wires to ensure they are securely attached, and then push it all back in your wall, re-screw, and add your cover plate. My new light switch conveniently labled "top" and "botton" on the unit. Now you are done, so turn back on your power!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/WiresatOutlet_zps54460b8b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/WiresatOutlet_zps54460b8b.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Newly Attached Outlet - See Green and Silver Screws</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Installed Oulet and Cover</td></tr>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-27504755092117105282013-09-27T09:00:00.000-04:002013-09-29T16:14:50.272-04:00The Nursery Walls Part II: Board and Batten...kindaAre you excited to see the finished walls?! And because I forgot to take a non-camera phone photo previously you will also see a sneak peak of our non-DIY window treatments. You lucky duck.<br />
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I absolutely love the fresh, clean and bright feel of this room now. Do you remember the before?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nursery Before</td></tr>
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To start on this you will want to determine how you want your placement and take precise measurements. Given my day job contains lots of computer aided drawing and detailing I have our whole house (and yard-to-be) drawn up in AutoCAD...that's normal, right? Therefore I triple checked the nursery dimensions, updated the drawing, and elevated all my walls to aide in my OCD planaholic personality. A simple sketch would suffice, too...but why would I <em>just</em> do that? I later decided to delete the crown moulding - with only 8'-0" ceilings it really limited my options for art sizes, shapes and placement. Trust me - I did about 10 other elevations playing with art and shelving just to be sure.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevation Drawings</td></tr>
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We made our trip to Lowe's as my research indicated they had the primed MDF boards at the sizes that best suited our space. We needed eight 1x3x8's for the vertical (which we would cut exactly in half) and six 1x4x12's for the base and chair rail. For anyone new to lumber dimensions the width and thickness are NOMINAL sizes. A 1" thick board is generally 3/4" thick (depending on if it is wood, composite, or MDF). A 3" wide board is actually 2-1/2" wide and a 4" wide board is actually 3-1/2" wide. Check out more on that at trusty old Wikipedia: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lumber" target="_blank">Lumber</a>. <br />
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I also picked up: Liquid Nails, caulk, and 1-3/4" long primed finishing nails. Initally I hoped to use our nail gun, but the longest nail it accomodates is 1-1/4." In our situation we have the 3/4" thick lumber plus 5/8" thick gypsum board which totals 1.375." A nail that is 1.25" wouldn't even make it into the studs, and that would be useless. Note: I was stoked about the primed finishing nails. I didn't use those when we added trim to thicken up our crown moulding downstairs, so I thought they would be the coolest nails ever for this. Um, no. After a few taps with a hammer the primed finish came right off 75% of the nails. {sad face}<br />
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Back when I primed and painting the ceiling, I went ahead and primed the walls and used a coat of the cheaper flat finish ceiling paint as my first coat of white paint where I was installing the batten. As you increase the sheen level in your paint the price increases as well. Not that a coat of paint is all that costly, but with the set up and clean up process of painting (the paint trays, the rollers, the brushes) it just made it easy to go ahead this way.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painting Progress</td></tr>
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When making my cuts for the base and chair rail I decided not to overcomplicate things. With the exception of my one outside corner I butted all my joints together. Why miter if I don't have to? If you did not see last week's post about removing base board then check that out here: <a href="http://theabundantabode.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-nursery-walls-part-i-removing-base.html" target="_blank">The Nursery Walls Part I.</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/1InstallingNewBase_zps3bde43f5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/1InstallingNewBase_zps3bde43f5.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside corner with mitered edge; inside corner straight - overlapping the perpendicular board</td></tr>
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First was the base, second the vertical battens, and last the chair rail. This is a camera phone photo, so it's a little blurry. Don't fret - the glider was covered in a canvas crop cloth and plastic drop cloth when all the painting occurred!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/2BattenProgress_zps8a2e426e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/2BattenProgress_zps8a2e426e.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And I chose neither of those paint colors! Left: SW6218 Tradewind, Right: SW0019 Festoon Aqua</td></tr>
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Now ideally you want to hit studs with your nails...and ideally the duplex outlet isn't DIRECTLY where you want your center batten...ON ALL FOUR WALLS. Seriously...shut up. I just pushed the board I wanted to be centered over and slightly respaced the other boards. I considered just cutting the board at the outlet, but hey...six one way, half a dozen the other. Whatever floats your boat. We hit studs with the base and the chair rail, and then about 30% of our vertical boards. The rest we are trusting in Liquid Nails and the nails that are just through the drywall. <br />
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Once you have completed attaching all your boards you can caulk away. Follow the instructions on your caulk to determine how long you need to wait before painting (usually 2 hours). Since the boards and walls were already primed and the walls already had a coat of paint, I only had one full coat of semi-gloss white paint to do plus a little touch up here and there. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/BoardBattenNursery_zps4847df90.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/Nursery%20Progress/BoardBattenNursery_zps4847df90.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See...this paint color is kinda in between the other two swatches...SW6477 Tidewater</td></tr>
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See that annoying outlet placement? Oh well. Speaking of electrical...next week we can talk about updating our old almond colored duplexes and light switches to white ones. And just like our walls were so much more than paint...our electrical updates ARE MORE THAN JUST A COLOR CHANGE! I know you are on the edge of your seat in anticipation...<br />
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-10515353937069006052013-09-20T09:00:00.000-04:002013-09-20T09:00:01.781-04:00The Nursery Walls Part I: Removing Base Moulding<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Last week I revealed the ceilings of the nursery and hinted at the <span style="color: #674ea7;">SO MUCH MORE THAN PAINT</span> work we did on the walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I've been seeing stripe wall tutorials out the wazoo lately, so I'm sure that probably crossed your mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT NO!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is the feature in the "green guestroom" next to the nursery, so no need to repeat it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I was inspired by several possible treatments with just a little more flare.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/569297/Board-and-batten-office--home-office-indianapolis"><img border="0" src="http://st.houzz.com/simgs/e6d121580f39c8fc_8-0342/-home-office.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/home-office" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Home Office</a> by <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/media-and-blogs/indianapolis" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Indianapolis Media and Bloggers</a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/thriftydecorchick/thrifty-decor-chick" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Thrifty Decor Chick</a></small></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pinned from a Broken Link via <a href="http://whiteandgolddesign.blogspot.com/2012/02/chevron-beadboard-pendant-free-kitchen.html" target="_blank">White|Gold Design </a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pinned from a Broken Link via Cocokelley.blogspot.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ultimately I choose to stay timeless, and go with board and batten.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Nothing but the best for L-Dubs (the tots nickname). </span>Well, semi-board and batten.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>True board and batten uses wide "boards" pieced together along the wall with the "battens" being the thin pieces covering the joints of the boards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The majority of tutorials out in blog land (along with this one) uses only the batten part of the equation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The added expense of the boards is not necessary in my situation; however it could be a good solution if you are dealing with damaged walls.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our home was built in 1991, so our first step was to remove the existing builder grade base moulding which has the curved top edge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A straight top edge is needed for the vertical elements to extend from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The new base moulding would be just a tiny bit taller than our existing which makes the removal a little easier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will need a utility knife, painter's multi-tool like a 5-in-one tool, screw driver, pliers and hammer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may also want a pry bar and a small spare piece of wood (about 6-12" long x 4-6" high). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were able to remove the base without those last two items, but it will depend on how yours was installed.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">First, use an blade and cut along the top edge of the existing base and then go back with either a caulk remover tool or a 5-in-one painters tool to remove all the existing caulk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is an incredibly important step as you do not want to pull the base off with the gypsum board paper still attached - it could rip all the way up your wall, and that is no fun to repair!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I removed the caulk with the 5-in-one tool, I pushed the tool between the base and the wall to continue the separation by loosening the nails from the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> At times I wedged the screwdriver between the wall and the base board a foot or so ahead of me to help as I pulled the base off.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loosened Base Moulding</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now that you will not be ripping the paper face off your gypsum board you can really start pulling out that base.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used the pliers to reach behind the base and loosen the nails from the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I initially tried the pry bar and spare wood method of removing, but the nails were ripping up the drywall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure, it would be covered with the new base moulding, but it was making me cringe to watch it happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of the base could be pulled about a 1/2" from the wall making it pretty easy to reach in with pliers and continue to loosen the nail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once your nails are loosened the base mostly pops right off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your corners - where the base is connecting to another run of base - will be the more difficult part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had one pesky corner where I grabbed my Dremel saw attachment and cut through the attached corner because it just would not separate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No pictures of that - no need to see a pregnant lady's hormonally induced moment of rage!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I actually forgot to take photos during most of this demo process, but I did remember a few when installing the batten.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Oh right, most of this was done with my belly looking like this -</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A week after this photo we found out his body is in the 61% and head is in the 98%...<br />
Let's hope he evens out towards the 61%.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">All the squatting and bending would have been much easier if we tackled this project around the 20 week mark instead of 23ish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Holy growth spurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh well, mentally I simply wasn't ready to work on the nursery at that point, but that's a whole other story.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next week I'll walk through the installation of the battens!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a mostly easy process with the exception of one wall of ours that is a little wonky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wonky = curves slightly outwards which makes keeping those boards flush a <span style="color: #674ea7;">SUPER FUN PROCESS</span>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again, may have had a few hormonally induced moments of rage...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span>Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-51236716105972296872013-09-13T09:00:00.000-04:002013-09-14T08:15:51.757-04:00Sayonara Textured Ceiling!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There has been a project I have been wanting to try since purchasing our house a little over a year ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fearful is an understatement of why I have yet to tackle this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First, I thought I'd give it a try in the powder room since it is such a small size.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But that never happened...along with taking the flamestitch wallcovering down in that room, but that is a project for another day {or year}.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A couple weeks ago West Elm began their 15% seating sale, so I pulled the trigger on the glider for the nursery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With less than a two week lead time the nursery renovation had to begin immediately unless we planned on having the glider hang out in the hallway when it arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time to go to Home Depot.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Homax-Ceiling-Texture-Scraper-for-Popcorn-Ceiling-Removal-6104/202061374#.Uii6M8ZWbnE" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Homax Ceiling Texture Scraper</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/BEHR-Premium-Plus-1-gal-Ultra-Pure-White-Flat-Zero-VOC-Interior-Paint-105001/202761505?N=bbbpZ1z140hbZ7wpZ1z140hbZ1z10m12#.Uii7RcZWbnF" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">ZeroVOC Interior Flat Paint</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We already had some of this </span><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/KILZ-2-1-gal-Water-Based-White-Interior-Exterior-Primer-Sealer-and-Stain-Blocker-20941/100096395#.Uii6bcZWbnE" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">KilzPrimer, Sealer and Stain Blocker</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You see where I'm headed with this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This horrid 1990's ceiling was about to meet his end.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Prep 1: Lay down plastic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if you do not plan to give your walls a make-over as well than you should cover your walls in plastic, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a messy and dusty process.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Prep 2: Fill a spray bottle with water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The room I did is about 10x11, so a basic spray bottle worked well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tool I purchased was a life saver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know the reviews are mediocre, but I say 5 stars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It hooked up to the end of the extension rod we use with our paint rollers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recommend using a midsized thick plastic shopping bag to attached to the tool - like one from Old Navy or another clothing store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not a grocery bag and not a big trash bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn't take much before the bag becomes heavy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rather than taking off the attached bag and hooking on a new one we just dumped the debris into a large trash bag, and we continued with the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Step 1: You are ready to officially start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put on some goggles and a mask and begin working in small sections (about 4 foot x 4 foot).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spray the ceiling with water, wait about 60-90 seconds, and the begin scraping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the tool instructions tell you, apply even pressure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surprisingly, it doesn't take much pressure at all for the nasty popcorn to just peel away and fall nearly perfectly into the attached bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A little debris misses, but I'd guess 95% goes in the attached bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do not dig into your ceiling - it's more for you to patch and repair later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can always go back and squirt more water and do another swipe, but once you pull away a chunk of drywall paper or actual drywall you can't go back!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As your attached bag becomes heavy empty it into a large trash bag - do this often and save your arms the pain.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Texture all Gone!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Step 2: Once you have successfully removed the textured ceiling you are ready to patch, repair and sand as needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To me this was the messiest step.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will probably have a few areas that have a thin layer of texture remaining.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is where some medium grain sand paper will come in handy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do that first and then use spackle to fill any areas where you may have removed chunks of drywall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had a few areas at the beginning while I was becoming used to the necessary pressure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then some areas at the end when my arms hurt and I was becoming lazy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the spackle dries go back and sand using a fine grit sand paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may also need a small hand tool to scrape any remaining areas of texture particularly around the perimeter of the room or around the rough-ins for electrical or HVAC.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Step 3: I have read so many tutorials on this that skip this step!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you didn't notice during step 2 this is a dusty process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That dust is everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any surface that you have not covered in plastic needs a good wipe down; especially your ceiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recommend a sponge mop and two buckets of water - a "clean water" bucket and a "rinse bucket" {like the way you should wash a car}.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I emptied the "rinse bucket" 8 times for this tiny room because that is how much dust and dirt came off the ceiling and uncovered walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>{Certainly you don't want to paint all that into the room permanently!?}</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Step 4: Once the ceiling is dry you can begin to prime and paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I use Kilz for priming because it's what we use in contract jobs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only does it prime but it seals the surface and most importantly is a stain blocker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a small area of former water damage on this ceiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The leak had been fixed long before we moved in the house, but a 2" wide by 5 foot long stain was visible when we removed the popcorn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The stain blocker element of the Kilz will ensure that will not reappear later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course if a new leak occurred than a new stain would appear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do a good even coat of primer, wait the recommended two hours, and then start your first coat of ceiling paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We needed a second coat of ceiling paint and a couple touch up areas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And that is all there is to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seems like a lot, but really the priming and painting took the most time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The prep and scraping took less than an hour and a half, and that was the part I was most fearful about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end, I look up that glorious white ceiling and think, <em><span style="color: #674ea7;">I am so doing this in our master, in the hallway and in the great room</span><span style="color: #674ea7;">!</span></em><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> We've tenatively determine we should do a new space every six months...seems realistic. </span>Out of all my projects thus far, this is the most rewarding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Next week? Onto the walls - it's so much more than a coat of paint, and I LOVE it!</span></span></div>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-51343554613108563602013-09-06T09:00:00.000-04:002013-09-06T09:00:08.621-04:00Making a Come Back<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So...been a while.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Life has been pretty busy, and I am not so sure if the
blogging thing is really for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At
least not in the capacity in which I began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sure DIY projects can be entertaining to post about, but it is not a
subject which I can write solely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, I think I will give this another go around as life around this
place is changing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Initially my departure was a result of long hours at
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This little venture of creating a
"real" design arm within an already successful purchasing company
seems to actually be working.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luckily
three more people have been added to our now team of six which is helping
greatly with reducing the long hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And to think, less than two years ago it was just me and my boss!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a good thing we expanded when we did...
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The husband and I took an early anniversary trip to the
Biltmore the first weekend in April.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
had just started talking about trying to start a family maybe sometime in May.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The night we returned from that weekend in
North Carolina, I had a strange thought pop into my head,<em><span style="color: #674ea7;"> hey
you...before you bust open another bottle of vino go take a pregnancy test.</span></em><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/TuesdayMorningatBiltmore_low_zps229e7cc4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/2013%20Posts/TuesdayMorningatBiltmore_low_zps229e7cc4.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Biltmore</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The instructions said I should do it in the
morning, so I held off on opening that bottle of Pinot, and the next morning
did what that strange little voice in my head told me to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had done one of these tests before back in
November when I first went off birth control and was unsure of this whole basal
temperature tracking method of natural birth control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This time the second line began to appear
before I could even cap the thing and turn it over to wait those three grueling
minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I quickly flipped her over, and
thought, <em><span style="color: #674ea7;">you're seeing things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just
wait the stupid three minutes.</span></em><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So
I waited...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was not seeing things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Two lines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Holy mackerel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two lines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I just spent the weekend drinking about as much wine as our 1 year
anniversary trip to Sonoma.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This little
nugget is drowning in alcohol.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><em><span style="color: #674ea7;">Dear
Lord...I'm already the worst mother ever and I'm only two weeks in.</span></em><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This poor kid doesn't stand a chance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then I ate a turkey sandwich for
lunch...<em><span style="color: #674ea7;">crap, I'm not suppose to eat deli meat!</span></em><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Epic Failure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then, I snapped out of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seriously; women go months without knowing
their pregnant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not really sure how, but
apparently some people are truly disconnected from their bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As far as I know they don't have kids walking
around with three eyeballs or a foot for a hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <em><span style="color: #674ea7;">Hmm...a</span></em></span><em><span style="color: #674ea7;">t least I started taking prenatal vitamins
when I went off birth control in November.</span></em></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;">{Now before there are a zillion comments about if it is
or is not okay to drink alcohol, consume deli meat, or why some children are
born with abnormalities let me be real clear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><strong>Go post somewhere else</strong>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do not
care what you think; I do not mean to be rude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am just being honest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will
not post your comment, so do not even bother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have my own convictions I live by, and for the most part respect what
others choose to do for themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
whole guilting and shaming other women into feeling horrible about themselves
is out of control.}</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Back to fun things! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Over the next several weeks expect to see a
transformation of this dingy ugly space into a fabulously modern little boys
nursery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>We have a good bit completed
now, but why reveal it all at once?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
can join in on the nearly month long process of updating the ceiling, walls,
trim and electrical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All DIY of course!</span><br />
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-83144330325477016602013-02-21T08:30:00.000-05:002013-02-21T08:35:26.176-05:00A Little Feature on Apartment TherapyI know I have been MIA for some time now. Things took off after my last post regarding that fun little boutique project. Quite frankly, I'm becoming completely spoiled with this client & project. It's an upper upscale hotel (yes, that is a real term), we are blending 1920's with French with old bank because the building was an old bank built in the 20's and the owner wants it Frenchy. Oh, and the client likes everything I've done. And there is no Brand to submit to and impose their standards and overworked design ideas. Seriously. I'm spoiled now. What will I do when reality hits on my other projects?<br />
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Alas, I have neglected any projects for myself. However, I may have the kick I need to get back into things. <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/before-after-ikea-rast-to-nailhead-bedside-tablethe-abundant-abode-184355#comments" target="_blank">Apartment Therapy</a> mentioned my most successful project, my Nailhead & Marble Ikea Rast Hack. I finally did find a little something purple to add that pop of color I wanted. <br />
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Guess how shocked I was when the Hubbs texted me a photo of a mid century modern table and chairs one Saturday afternoon. I was curled up on the sofa feeling a bit under the weather. He had been on a quest to find old watches, but ended up at a flea market in Alpharetta. Enticed by the photo he sent, I managed to make my way over there. Along with the 1950's dining set for $400 we returned home with this little fragment of amethyst colored quartz for $20. </div>
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I'm holding out on you though. I will wait to unveil the tables and chairs when I finally complete the reupholstering. I have removed fabric and foam from one of the four chairs...so it may be a while! The goal is mid March. We do have a list of spring projects to accomplish, so hopefully I'll be back again soon!<br />
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-91166334999336829052012-12-25T07:00:00.000-05:002012-12-25T11:47:29.323-05:00Merry Christmas!<div style="text-align: left;">
For my birthday my husband gave me a macro lens and one of my gifts from mom was a tripod, so I spent Christmas Eve learning how to do macrophotography! I have a long ways to go, but for just popping it on and going I did create a few good shots for Christmas.</div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!</span></div>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-36482733586170641312012-12-22T11:00:00.000-05:002012-12-22T11:00:00.292-05:00Boutique Project InspirationIt has felt even longer than it has been since my last post. Work is busy times 10. So busy that earlier this week I worked 12 hours straight with hardly a moment away from the computer. As I was explaining the hectic day to my coworkers via email I said, "I had a hot dog bun for for lunch. Not a hot dog...just the bun. No time to heat up the hot dog part." {Literally, that happened.} Then woke up the next day to do the same thing. Of course I'm paying for it now with an incredibly sore and stiff neck. <br />
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However I did completely redesign an entire guestroom floor that contained 15 different room types. The architect loved it, so now I'm waiting for the client to tell me how much they love it, too{hehe}. Cross your fingers for me.<br />
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I've really enjoyed collecting imagery and concepts for this little boutique hotel, so I thought I'd take a moment to share some of the bathrooms and guestrooms I have discovered in my search for inspiration.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Boutique%20Hotel/AquaandWhiteBedroom_zps6dc4b0d7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Boutique%20Hotel/AquaandWhiteBedroom_zps6dc4b0d7.jpg" width="524" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colors and Nightstand | Via Houzz</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Boutique%20Hotel/Guestroom2_zpsf6065eb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="409" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Boutique%20Hotel/Guestroom2_zpsf6065eb2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Large Pendants at Nightstands | Lori Gentile Design Studio via Houzz</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sliding Mirror Doors at Bath | St Regis Atlanta</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bed and Drapery | Chateau Elan Inn</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vanity Design and Frameless Mirrors <br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">{Not sure of source, maybe a Waldorf Astoria}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vanity Design | St. Regis Atlanta</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wet Room Concept (Tub & Shower in One Room) | Pulp Design Studios</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three Vertical Niches at Tub | Miller Greene Design Studio</td></tr>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-77828162461640387642012-12-03T10:00:00.000-05:002012-12-03T10:12:41.626-05:00Cocktail Table with Ottomans<br />
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Well we have a working, but not completed cocktail table AND our ottomans arrived! I thought about turning our old coffee table into an ottoman, but I preferred two separate than one big one. Then I saw these guys on Overstock and fell in love. With free shipping and a discount code they were about $125 for the pair. <br />
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I used more of those wonderful 12x24 white carrara marble tiles that I used on our nightstands. {I may have a slight obsession with white carrara.} The frame is simply 1x2 select pine boards with 2x2's for the legs; most all the joinery is done with pocket screws via a Kreg Jig. Since staining pine is less than fabulous, I just spray painted. I used Krylon Oil Rubbed Bronze to give more dimension to the finish than just black paint. It needs another coat, but I'm waiting until I figure out an edge detail. I have half an idea in my head, but I need to sketch it through to make sure it works before I proceed.<br />
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I really tried to do the whole "styled" table, but I just couldn't go through with it. It is simply not me. I find that half way through the arranging I can't stop thinking "ugh the dusting will take FOR-EV-ER." While I could just do it for the photo, it kinda feels like lying, so if you were to come to my house this is what it looks like - well maybe with a glass of wine and an IPA to the side, too.<br />
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For those of you wondering the difference between all the table verbiage I use here is how we distinguish it in my day job:<br />
Coffee Tables: Low, usually between 15-19" high<br />
Cocktail Tables: Low-Mid, usually between 20-22" high<br />
Dining Tables: Mid, usually between 28-30" high<br />
Console Tables: High, usually between 31-34" high<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hubbs is happy about the ottomans, too</td></tr>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-7063976529423716322012-11-29T10:00:00.000-05:002012-11-29T10:00:03.718-05:00Dreamy Dwelling Guest PostToday you can hop over to <a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" target="_blank">It's Overflowing</a> to check out my guest post and snoop around the rest of my house {hehe}. Aimee is full of wonderful ideas and tips on so many different things.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Crafts & DIY Decor</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/2012/10/simple-diy-candle-holders/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=simple-diy-candle-holders" target="_blank">Simple DIY Candle Holders</a></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/2012/11/tufted-wool-wreath/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tufted-wool-wreath" target="_blank">Anthro Inspired Wreath</a><br />
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</a><a href="http://www.barnsandnoodles.com/crockpot-sugared-pecans/" target="_blank">Crock Pot Sugared Pecans</a></div>
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Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-5175448661008678282012-11-25T19:00:00.000-05:002012-11-25T19:56:43.251-05:00Indoor Christmas Decor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now that Thanksgiving is behind us - time to decorate for Christmas! We almost completed the outside today, and we have a completed mantle inside.</div>
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This will be our first year with a REAL tree, and I have discovered an exciting assortment of light options - so exciting that I just had to share!</div>
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Target has these indoor string lights in several varieties, my favorite being the mixture of opalescent, clear faceted, and sugared. They are only 25 feet long, but for only $10 I was hoping three sets would be enough when mixed in with more traditional plain lights. The ones I found are also from Target and look like the clear faceted ones, but are Phillips LED.</div>
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I'm fearful of the tree not making it alive to Christmas, so we are going to wait til the 1st to pick one up. Hopefully next week I can show you what those lights look like on our tree! We will be setting up the tree in time to watch Georgia maybe somehow miraculously beat Alabama in the SEC championship. {Come on - with the Irish being the other one in the championship game I'm feeling a little hope that 1980 can happen again! Go Gurshall!}<br />
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Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-60127734519042153922012-11-18T20:00:00.000-05:002012-11-18T20:12:54.537-05:00Outdoor Christmas DecorThe hope was to show you our new coffee table...but I have spent too much time watching football this weekend, and not enough time constructing! It was glorious to watch Kansas State and Oregon loose Saturday night, but the hubbs is going to be livid if 'bama wins another National Championship. {He's just angry it took this long for his coach to be fired.} It may take a miracle, but I am hoping for Georgia to pull this thing out. We haven't had a championship in my lifetime - I"M READY!<br />
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We have slowly started preparations for our first Christmas in our house! The mailbox is decked out with a battery operated lighted garland, I have painted and glitter "dipped" the letters NOEL for the mantle, and made one cluster of ornaments to suspend from one side of the mantle. {I'll wait until after Thanksgiving to finish up the mantle for a photo.}<br />
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I could easily spend about $1000 on all the different elements I want for decor this holiday season, but I know if I wait until after Christmas I can load up on more for half the price. So, there is a strategic plan in place here! My dream is garland around all the handrails of the staircase {inside stairs and the back deck}, wreaths on every front facing window, icicle lights from the eaves, snowflake lights at the covered entry, net lights on all our shrubs, big ornaments hanging on our dwarf Japanese Maple, and <b><i>so much more!</i></b><br />
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I guess I am a little Christmas crazy. Perhaps it is because my birthday is the 23rd, maybe it is because it is something I did a lot with my Dad before he passed, or it could just be because it is awesome and you are lame if you don't love it. {Hehe.}</div>
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<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/Decor-Holiday-Decorations-Christmas-Lights-Specialty-Lights/h_d1/N-5yc1vZc3tg/R-203475018/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051" target="_blank">Clear Sphere</a></div>
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These lighted spheres come in 6" for $39, 8" for $55, and 10" for $85. I think one of each size suspended as a grouping from the corner of our front entry overhang would be ah-mazing. However, even at half off after Christmas, I'm not sure I feel great about spending that much. Maybe that would be too much glow in one spot anyway?</div>
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I like all the lighted path lights as well. The candy canes and lollipops could be great for houses with children, but these little trees or twigs are a little more my style. I just wish the little swirly trees did not have the star on top. {Not that I don't like the Biblical reference to the North Star, but it's just a little much on all four trees.}</div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/philips-warm-white-winterberry-twig-stake-set-of-3/-/A-14092982#prodSlot=large_1_10" target="_blank">Philips Warm White Winterberry Twigs</a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/Decor-Holiday-Decorations-Outdoor-Christmas-Decorations-Path-Lights-Yard-Stakes/h_d1/N-5yc1vZc3t7/R-202532747/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051" target="_blank">18" Spiral Tree Pathway Lights</a></td></tr>
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There are even a few items I think may could solve a few of our landscape lighting problems throughout the year. I would love some pathway lighting in the backyard, but the sunlight is spotty depending on the time of year, so solar lights are not an option. These two options have super long cords and are simply plug into a regular outlet; going all-out with hardwired low voltage lighting is not in our landscaping budget anytime soon.</div>
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<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/Decor-Holiday-Decorations-Christmas-Lights/h_d1/N-5yc1vZc3tb/R-202207356/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051" target="_blank">LED Garden Lights</a></div>
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I'll wait to share all the wondrous indoor discoveries some other day! Hope your Thanksgiving week is full of delightful family moments.<br />
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<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-10509990957986231712012-11-11T09:00:00.000-05:002012-11-18T08:46:31.386-05:00Wood Wall Sculpture Inspired by Talking DeadThe DIY art continues...<br />
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This time my inspiration came while watching Talking Dead {the after show for The Walking Dead which I partially watch through my fingers or listen to as I hide under a blanket}. Last week I showed that the end result does not have to be anything like the initial inspiration. Designers often see something and it sparks an idea that has very loose ties to the original. Personally, I think that's what being a designer is all about.<br />
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This time there is definitely a resemblance to my inspiration, but not an exact match. I did go smaller in scale, and I also choose to leave the wood unfinished. In part because I did not want to put the extra time in, but mostly because I think the family room needed this light natural finish in contrast to all the dark upholstery and stained wood in the other furniture items. I had the cheap 2x2 pine boards from another project that I changed my mind on {shocker}, and they were perfect for this project. As I began chopping away with my miter saw I realized "I should plan this out." I proceeded to cut 3", 2-1/2", 2", 1-1/2" and 1" long pieces. I should have gone with about a 1/2" and not exceeded 2" because this started becoming heavy pretty quickly - another reason why I stopped at the approximately 13x13 inch overall size.<br />
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I started with a completely random pattern...however, considering statistically it is difficult to achieve true randomness I decided why attempt that here? Vertically the blocks are stacked according to height starting with the shortest, I add the next size on each side of that piece and continue in both directions. I then shifted that up and down "randomly" as I went across to each column. I used a 12x24 board I had down in the "craft room" and cut it in half for the back. Now I have the other half for the other side of my fireplace. Not sure exactly what I'm going to do yet with it, but ideas are flowing. I would like it to stay in-keeping with this one, but not matching or even coordinating. {Did you know there was a difference?}<br />
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I toyed with the idea of shifting the grouping of two {wood sculpture and framed print} over to allow for a vertical painted canvas about the same height as the two elements combined. I really liked the grouping of three and the mixing of mediums; however, it seemed cramped and just too much on this focal wall with the mantle action happening as well. Given the weight of my little wood guy, I thought it best to find a stud for attaching. And wouldn't you know? The stud is centered between the wall and the fireplace. So, that ended the debate right then.<br />
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I used the attachment hardware than came with an old Ikea full length mirror - one centered at top and bottom. For now, I do not think it will be necessary to add any to the sides. Hopefully I won't have a heart attack in the middle of the night when it crashes to the floor.<br />
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<a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/11/11/diy-project-parade-58/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=diy-project-parade-58" target="_blank">DIY Showoff - Project Parade</a><br />
<a href="http://homestoriesatoz.com/uncategorized/tutorials-tips-link-party-85.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed: thestoriesofa2z/Visw (Home Stories A to Z)" target="_blank">Home Stories A to Z </a><br />
<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2012/11/weekend-wrap-up-and-100-michaels-gift-card-giveaway.html" target="_blank">TT&J Weekend Wrap Up</a><br />
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/2012/11/overflowing-with-creativity-49/" target="_blank">It's Overflowing - ...with creativity</a></div>
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<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-43551862981341051622012-11-04T10:32:00.001-05:002012-11-11T16:43:28.223-05:00Sunday in Suburbia: Antiquing Mirrors<br />
Today we are in the foyer. Our foyer is rather small thanks to our angled staircase, but it creates a little corner perfect for a focal element. My long term plan will include a pedestal with sculpture; however finding a piece of sculpture that evokes the right feeling is not an easy process. Especially when I want to keep it under $150. {Too bad I don't have access to welding equipment anymore or I would do it myself!} So far, everything I find is simply too...pedestrian. {I laugh just saying that; one of the hotel brands I work with says this all the time!} So, I decided on a temporary solution that could be used elsewhere in the house when the permanent solution occurs.<br />
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Several weeks ago when searching for accessories on a project I came across this wall sculpture from Phillips Collection.<br />
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It's a little rustic for me, but it sparked an idea. Six square mirrors from Ikea no longer had a home when we moved from the apartment...so I was off to Home Depot to purchase muriatic acid to antique those mirrors.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/1-GettingStarted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/1-GettingStarted.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Setting Up</td></tr>
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What you will need:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Paint Stripper</li>
<li>Plastic Putty Knife</li>
<li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-202690263/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&keyword=muriatic+acid&storeId=10051" target="_blank">Muriatic </a>Acid</li>
<li>Water</li>
<li>Mask, Eye Protection, and Chemical Resistant Gloves (I used one kind for the stripper and the heavy duty kind when handling the acid)</li>
<li>Spray Bottle for the Muriatic Acid </li>
<li>Spray Paint - black and gold are the most commonly used</li>
<li>Paper towel and Cotton Rags</li>
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First, you will need to strip the paint off the back of the mirrors using paint stripper. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/2-SpreadingonPaintStripper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/2-SpreadingonPaintStripper.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evenly spread the paint stripper on the back of the mirror.</td></tr>
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I am not sure if my paint stripper was old and less potent or if the Ikea mirrors just had a hard core painted back...The first couple mirrors I let the stripper sit for about 30 minutes and they did not turn out well and took a lot of scraping. This is not an ideal situation as you do not want to damage the mirror surface under the paint. Then I decided to let the stripper sit for 8 hours, and it worked great - just gently pushed away the stripped paint. {After doing this I read a different how to article which suggested aerosol paint stripper - perhaps that works better.}</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/3-PaintStripper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/3-PaintStripper.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left: Stripper after 30 Minutes | Right: Stripper after 8 hours</td></tr>
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Clean up the entire mirror using water and paper towels. It is okay to still have some of the painted back on the mirror - this can help keep you from removing too much of the mirror finish in the next step.</div>
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Second, once the surface is dry spray the muriatic acid on the back of the mirror. The more you spray the more "silver" mirror finish will be removed making the mirror completely see through. Only let it sit for about one minute, and then pour on the water. Carefully blot up the water with dry cotton rags. Keep your mask, goggles and gloves on until you have disposed of all the tainted rags and paper towels. Here is the front and back of my favorite one after the muriatic acid process. If you are going for a true "antique mirror" look than aim at the edges of the mirror. This will provide the most realistic end result as true antique mirrors begin the wearing around the edges.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/5BackandFrontofFavorites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/5BackandFrontofFavorites.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left: Back of Mirror | Right: Front of Mirror</td></tr>
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Third, it is time to repaint the back of the mirror. Before painting be sure to thoroughly clean the back side of the mirror - you don't want any residue or fingerprints when you go to spray paint. I have seen black or gold spray paint used for this part; however, I think it would cool to do another color for a different look. {I may do that for another project.}</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/7PaintingBackSide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/7PaintingBackSide.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painting Process</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/CompletedMirrors-3shots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Antiquing%20Mirrors/CompletedMirrors-3shots.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Completed Mirrors Mounted to Wall</td></tr>
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The one on the left is the same I showed above as my favorite. I was concerned this one would be my least favorite - that I took off too much of the mirror finish, but in the end I love it. I still want my pedestal and sculpture, but for now provides a little more interest from the entry. {And, I know another place for it when I come across that perfect sculptural element!}</div>
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Remember, I was not going for a true antique mirror look. I just wanted to "industrialize" those cheap boring mirrors. If you are aiming for a true antique mirror look then I recommend these two tutorials that I reference: <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/bedrooms/how-to-antique-a-mirror/index.html" target="_blank">Layla Palmer</a> and <a href="http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/decor/how-to-antique-a-mirror/" target="_blank">Kristan Cunningham</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/11/04/diy-project-parade-57/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=diy-project-parade-57" target="_blank">DIY Show Off - Project Parade</a><br />
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/2012/11/overflowing-with-creativity-48/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=overflowing-with-creativity-48" target="_blank">It's Overflowing with Creativity</a></div>
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Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-21225136233281013082012-11-02T17:00:00.000-04:002012-11-11T16:43:50.528-05:00Faithful FridaysNovember!? How did you get here so fast? That means we are just a few short weeks away from our first year of Christmas decorations in the new house! We may have already been eyeing those Christmas aisles at Home Depot and Target...and we may be starting the purchasing this weekend. I mean...what if they run out of the net lights for our shrubs and the icicle lights for the roof line? I would be devastated to say the least.<br />
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November also means our zombie friend from the front yard has been packed away for next year. So {not} sad.<br />
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A new month means another first Friday of the month, and I'm going to toot my own horn. That New Year resolution from January? I'm still on target. At least I am on one of them; however, it was the most important, so double {toot toot} for me.<br />
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The resolution was to follow one of these reading plans <a href="http://www.ligonier.org/blog/bible-reading-plans-2012/" target="_blank">{here}</a>, and I was going to be lazy and do the 5x5x5 plan, but the hubs chose the 52 week plan - read the entire Bible in one year. I begrudgingly decided to do the same one. Seriously? I failed on the three year plan on week two, so cramming it into one year seems unlikely. I honestly was prepared to be over it by February 1. <br />
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We always hear having an accountability partner is the key to success. This is clearly my personal proof to that. It's not like we read together, or say "did you read today?" We don't have to. Either we see each other reading in the morning or we don't. For both of us, it only takes a couple days of not reading and seeing the only one doing it to get back on track. I would highly recommend the same reading plan to any of you who are interested. It breaks the Bible up into genres and each day you do a different genre; that way you do not spend two or three weeks in Leviticus or Deuteronomy going "THIS IS HORRIBLE I CAN'T CONTINUE." {No...I never <i>said </i>that...I mumbled it as I was hitting my head against the table.}<br />
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So the question is -- are you still committed to any of your New Year Resolutions?<br />
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<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-16444302101434236802012-10-26T17:00:00.000-04:002012-11-11T16:43:08.138-05:00Our Master Suite<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While we are not completely done with our master bedroom, this weekend is Master Suite Link Up at Remodelaholic! <a name='more'></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/October-Master-Suite-Linkup1-428x600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/October-Master-Suite-Linkup1-428x600.png" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/2012/10/home-sweet-home-budget-master-bedroom-furnishings-linkup/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic</a></td></tr>
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This morning I decided that the half day I took off from work to clean and prep for a party tomorrow, would include making that small purple ombre pillow on the bed. I have been procrastinating on this pillow since I had the brilliant idea two months ago.</div>
<img border="0" height="438" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Master%20Bedroom/headboardwalldetail.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; clear: left; color: black; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">You know those moments when you realize you are totally in over your head? Yesterday the boss and I realized we {meaning me} need to wrap up the drawings on one of our projects. As I began detailing millwork for the buffet and bar I asked "who is our kitchen consultant?" Hahahaha...apparently I am! Let's forget than I am "just" an interior designer; how about that I have never worked in a restaurant. {We can just add it to the list of other things I have done that I am completely unqualified to do alongside egress calculations, corbeling details, parapet details, roof plans...} So while I felt the urge to do more things I'm unqualified for I decided to do this pillow. Three hours later I had a not-so-fabulous pillow. See, I'm a beginner and very mediocre sewer. My mother spent time attempting to teach me how to sew fancier things, but I loose patience quickly. Other than a straight line...check that, almost straight line...there is not much I can sew.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Master%20Bedroom/HerNighstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Master%20Bedroom/HerNighstand.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{My Side of the Bed}</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Master%20Bedroom/HisNightstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Master%20Bedroom/HisNightstand.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{His Side of the Bed}</td></tr>
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However, that did not stop me from sewing the nearly...not really...straight seams for the drapery panels, Euro pillows, lumbar pillows, bed throw, and pathetic excuse for a pintuck ombre pillow. Which by the way I had planned on two for the full ombre effect. Hey - I tried. Those Euro's even have zippers. Oh yes, I'm advancing. Gold star? Well, maybe silver.<br />
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Under $500 Budget Breakdown {because clearly I'm all about "value engineered" design}:<br />
<ul>
<li>Paint: Valspar to match Sherwin Williams Mysterious Shade $25 {quite frankly, wish it was a little more "mysterious" - more purple than I planned}</li>
<li>Bedding & Bed Frame: West Elm was purchased in 2010 shortly after our wedding</li>
<li>Headboard: West Elm, Christmas 2010 Present from my Mom {now that we raised our bed by adding the Sleep # Foundation, it's a little short - but I have an idea for that!}</li>
<li>Fabric: Premier Prints Ikat, Royal Suzani, and Lulu Stripe {reverse of Euros} bought when on sale from Fabric.com - about $72 total</li>
<li>Nightstand Lamps: Target $20 each; Shades, Ikea $9 each</li>
<li>Nightstands: $89 each {see <a href="http://theabundantabode.blogspot.com/2012/09/sunday-in-suburbia-nailhead-marble-ikea.html" target="_blank">here</a> for details}</li>
<li>Bed Throw: Boucle Suiting fabric from Joanne's on sale $12 plus $5 for the lining</li>
<li>Purple "leather" Frames on Nightstands: Target sale $6 each</li>
<li>Dresser {temporary - to be moved to another room when we get what we want}, Ikea when they had their Hemnes Sale, $119</li>
<li>Art & Other Accessories: either by me or free</li>
<li>We will be adding 1x6 MDF as crown and drapery valance, about $25</li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Master%20Bedroom/StripedEuros.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Master%20Bedroom/StripedEuros.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{The Other Side of the Euro Shams}</td></tr>
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<a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/10/28/diy-project-parade-and-fl-vacation-pictures/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=diy-project-parade-and-fl-vacation-pictures" target="_blank">DIY Showoff - Sunday 10/28</a></div>
<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-78484975024747318442012-10-21T14:30:00.001-04:002012-11-11T16:44:14.212-05:00Sunday in Suburbia: Enjoying Patio Weather <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The past few week of fall weather have been glorious. This is the time of year in Georgia where outdoor spaces are enjoyable rather than miserably hot. Last time the weather was pleasant for outdoor dining we were still in our apartment with our tiny courtyard view patio...and our mosaic tile patio table that started to bite the dust only a few short months after purchase. The husband was ready to dump this table before we moved into the house...not so fast mister...that metal frame is salvageable! <a name='more'></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/ApartmentPatioSpace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/ApartmentPatioSpace.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patio at Our Old Apartment</td></tr>
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Rather than have the moving guys have to deal with glass tiles falling out everywhere, I disassembled this guy while still on our postage stamp sized patio. Ugh I do not miss it. {Or the obnoxious Alabama fans that lived below us.} The photos make it look good - it was so much worse in person. Not to mention annoying when glass tiles were falling out every time it was bumped. Also not good for Chloe, who kept trying to eat the grout. {Poor dog, she is a cutie, but lacking in the smarts department.}<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/Discoloration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/Discoloration.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Discolored Tiles, Cracking Grout</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/dyingtable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/dyingtable.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiles Falling Out & Rusted Metal Frame</td></tr>
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With a few extra boards lying around from the indoor console table and bathroom mirror frame I decided to buy a few more in varying sizes and do a super simple plank table with a warm stain. I used Minwax English Chestnut 233 with a satin finish polyurethane. See <a href="http://theabundantabode.blogspot.com/2012/09/sunday-in-suburbia-chevron-inspired.html" target="_blank">my chevron console table</a> for tips on prepping and staining.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/stainingtheboards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/stainingtheboards.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staining the Boards</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/TableDetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Outdoor%20Coffee%20Table/TableDetail.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Boards inset in Existing Frame</td></tr>
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Next on the outdoor list? Sewing a few outdoor pillows for the bench and the swing down below the deck.<br />
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<a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/10/21/diy-project-parade-55/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=diy-project-parade-55" target="_blank">DIY Project Parade - Sunday 10.21.2012</a><br />
<a href="http://farm%20girl%20blog%20fest/" target="_blank">Farm Girl Blog Fest</a><br />
<a href="http://homestoriesatoz.com/tutorials/tutorials-tips-link-party-82.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+thestoriesofa2z%2FVisw+%28Home+Stories+A+to+Z%29" target="_blank">Home Stories A2Z - Tuts & Tips</a><br />
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/2012/10/overflowing-with-creativity-25/" target="_blank">It's Overflowing</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" title="TDC Before and After"><img alt="TDC Before and After" src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
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Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-19719815725731820712012-10-14T09:00:00.001-04:002012-10-14T09:58:16.526-04:00Sunday in Suburbia: Painting our Doors<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I knew before we ever found and bought our home that I
wanted something other than white trim + white doors throughout our house. I
just was not sure what it was I wanted. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Did I want to keep the trim + panels white, but paint the
stiles and rails? </span>Or white trim + colored doors? Or colored trim + white doors? Or walls + trim + doors all the same color?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/DoorOptions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/DoorOptions.jpg" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{See end of post for sources}</td></tr>
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Or about a bajillion other options. Seriously. A bajillion. And then, what about the color? So I waited.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px;">..and
waited...I then I realized what I knew all along. I heart black. Forever and
always. White trim + black doors it shall be. Thank you Grayson Manor via
Revenge for reminding me.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/Victorias-living-room-chair-wide-shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="350" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/Victorias-living-room-chair-wide-shot.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hookedonhouses.net/2011/10/03/the-hamptons-beach-houses-on-the-tv-show-revenge/" target="_blank">Hooked on Houses</a></td></tr>
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I almost did not move forward this way because it seems
like EVERYONE is doing this. However, I still love it, so I bought a gallon of
black paint {satin finish} and began the long, long, long process of prepping,
sanding, priming and painting a freaking lot of doors. But, I couldn't just
stop there. Thanks to a little inspiration from Martha Stewart {via my former
co-worker, Kristin and her lovely blog <a href="http://thehuntedinterior.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-art-of-accent-door.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FejmrE+%28The+Hunted+Interior%29" target="_blank">the Hunted Interior</a>.}</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/MarthStewartLiving-AccentEdge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/MarthStewartLiving-AccentEdge.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/857730/door-projects#/397053"><span style="color: blue;">Martha Stewart - Door Projects</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I
am a hint hesitant to do all the doors, but I'm doing a test run in my office.
I have the teal for guestroom no. 1 and green for guestroom no. 2, and nearly
ready to pull the trigger. I do quite adore it here in my office. {Really, could one ever go wrong with red + black?}</span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/OfficeAccentDoor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/OfficeAccentDoor.jpg" width="481" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Door with Red Accent</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/OverallOffice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/OverallOffice.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Door with Red Accent - Office</td></tr>
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I also spray painted the door knobs which were 100% shiny brass - think 1990. Long term I will buy new...long term I will buy new doors, too. Both the door and the knobs have been beat to death; if we did not already know the previous owners had six kids than the condition of items like doors, door knobs and cabinets made it ever clear. Good grief; I did not even know you could dent a door knob!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/DoorKnobDetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="269" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Accent%20Doors/DoorKnobDetail.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Door Knob in Rustoleum Carbon Mist</td></tr>
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How do you like that blurred background? It is guestroom number 2. Expect more on that in November!<br />
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Sources: </div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/lda-architecture-interiors/lda-architecture-interiors">LDa Architecture & Interiors Via Houzz</a>, </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="http://www.heredesign.net/" target="_blank">HERE Design</a> via my former co-worker <a href="http://afteradornment.blogspot.com/2012/07/paint-trim-instead.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AfterAdornment+%28After+Adornment%29" target="_blank">Lissa at After Adornment</a>,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/907092/door-nail-head-trim" target="_blank">Martha Stewart</a>, </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/paint-talk-matc-98698" target="_blank">Apartment Therapy</a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linking Up</td></tr>
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<a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/10/14/diy-project-parade-53/" target="_blank">DIY Show Off Project Parade</a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-69259101912695759732012-10-12T20:00:00.000-04:002012-10-15T16:34:52.427-04:00Faithful FridaysI missed out last Friday on my Faithful Friday's post {first Friday of the month}, but my day job opened a new design studio in Atlanta last week and therefore I was preoccupied! No worries - I still had time for a project, so come back Sunday to see our *new* interior doors and for a sneak peak of my home office!<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Can you believe it's mid October? We are just a few short weeks away from a presedential election, and I would like to take a brief moment away from DIY projects and recipes to remind you that if you can legally vote than it is not only your responsibility as a citizen, but also as a Christian to vote in this {and every} election. Listen to this short broadcast if you question why you should take the time to vote: <a href="http://www.focusonthefamily.com/radio.aspx?ID={4C1E2349-7A18-4DC9-8D14-7BECF52F6733}" target="_blank">Why Should Christians Vote</a> with Tony Evans.<br />
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Regardless of who you vote for it is an important liberty to exercise, and it is vital to know WHAT you are voting for as well. Know where you stand on the key issues of national defense, the national debt, and the role of government in the economy, society, industry and healthcare. Once you know how you feel about these issues it is easy to determine what each candiate believes about the same issues, and you can vote for who aligns the closest to your convictions. <br />
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If you are a big book reader, than I would recommend <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Should-Then-LAbri-Anniversary-Edition/dp/1581345364/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top" target="_blank">How Should We Then Live? The Rise and Decline of Western Thought and Culture.</a> This book by Francis Schaeffer chronicles the rise and fall of nations throughout history, and while published in 1976 provides a rather prophetic parrallel between the current state of our country and the Roman Empire. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://commit2vote2012.com/" target="_blank">Commit2Vote 2012</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.senate.gov/civics/constitution_item/constitution.htm" target="_blank">US Constitution</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.usdebtclock.org/" target="_blank">US Debt Clock</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.northpoint.org/messages/recovery-road" target="_blank">Recovery Road</a></div>
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<a href="http://yourmove.is/watch/god-and-country/" target="_blank">God & Country</a></div>
Renee @ The Abundant Abodehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164988737265777988noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-51375085555624607782012-10-06T10:00:00.000-04:002012-10-15T16:35:07.461-04:00Sweet Spot: Mint Chocolate Ice Cream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Food%20Blog/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="520" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Food%20Blog/Untitled.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mint Chocolate Ice Cream</td></tr>
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It has been WAY to long since a food post! I made this tasty treat earlier this summer when my cousin and her husband visited for a week. We enjoyed this scrumptious dessert while playing Bohnanza; it is always amazing when I can convince my husband to play games with me. I was raised in a hardcore game playing family, but apparently one tiny incident of me throwing Sequence cards in his face early on in our relationship has made him hesitant to play with me again. Whatev.<br />
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I was not sure exactly what I would end up with, but this is one of those fortunate discoveries. If you are looking for a traditional mint chocolate taste filled of artificial flavor then you may be disappointed; however, this pleasant and subtle flavor is pure splendor. I use an ice cream maker to ease the process. The Cuisinart Ice Cream maker is about $80 {and use that 20% coupon from Bed Bath & Beyond for the best deal.} Growing up we used one of the old fashioned kind that looked like a wood barrel with a hand crank, and this Cuisinart electric one is so much better. {And not so messy.}<br />
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Prep Time: 5 minutes<br />
Mixing Time: 20-25 minutes<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1 1/2 cups whole milk (you can use 2%, but it will be <i>very </i>soft unless placed in freezer)<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
3 cups heavy cream<br />
1 1/2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract<br />
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder<br />
1/2 tablespoon pure peppermint extract<br />
6 large mint leaves - finely chopped<br />
A few mint leaves for garnish<br />
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips<br />
Don't forget that the freezer bowl needs to be in the freezer for about 24 hours prior to use.<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
Use a medium size mixing bowl with a hand mixer on low speed to combine milk, sugar and cocoa powder {1-2 minutes.} Stir in peppermint & vanilla extract with heavy cream until blended. Turn on ice cream machine and gently pour mixture into freezer bowl. Add in mint leaves and chocolate chips after 15 minutes of mixing. Allow an additional 5-10 minutes for mixture to thicken to a creamy and soft texture. If a more traditional, firm texture is desired, freeze for another 1-2 hours in an air tight container.<br />
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<b>Side Note:</b><br />
You know what would be fun? Delete the peppermint extract and 1/2 cup of the milk and add 1/3 cup peppermint schnapps! I haven't tried it, but it just came to me, and all desserts are better with schnapps :)Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7206100973181849420.post-4477723899681427532012-09-30T09:00:00.000-04:002012-10-15T16:35:31.010-04:00Sunday in Suburbia: Nailhead & Marble Ikea Rast Hack <br />
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I finally hunted down more trim at a different JoAnn's location which had plenty to spare. At this point I would have been better off just purchasing from Overstock, but oh well. At least they are completed! And they are fabulous! {Well, I think they are pretty fabulous.}</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Nailheadandmarble_zps1b30a25f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/Nailheadandmarble_zps1b30a25f.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nailhead & Marble Ikea Rast Hack</td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>Required Items:</div>
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<a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/75305709/" target="_blank">Ikea Rast Dresser</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flooranddecoroutlets.com/s21100409.html" target="_blank">12x24 Floor Tile</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.overstock.com/Crafts-Sewing/Nailhead-Trim-5-Yards-Silver/6788947/product.html?cid=202290&kid=9553000357392&track=pspla&kw=%7bkeyword%7d&adtype=pla" target="_blank">Nailhead Trim</a> {design shown is about 7 yards per dresser}</div>
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<a href="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/products/small-silver-antique-hollow-square-glass-knob-485789/" target="_blank">Silver Antique Glass Drawer Pulls</a></div>
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primer, paint, 4" paint roller, fine grit sandpaper, tack cloth, mallet, pliers </div>
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Optional: clear silicone or liquid nails</div>
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Step 1: Assemble the unit per the manufacturer's instructions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It may be easier to paint before assembling, but it would stink to paint and then have issues assembling :) You can leave off the drawer pulls though.</div>
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Step 2: one coat of primer {I recommend Kilz for light colors or Glidden Gripper Grey for dark colors}.</div>
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Step 3&4: After allowing the recommended drying time for the primer, apply one coat of paint using a 4" smooth roller for furniture or cabinet painting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used a semigloss finish for my paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After it dries, lightly sand using a fine grit sandpaper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use tack cloth to remove grit, and then apply your second coat of paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again, once it dries do one more round of light sanding, wipe down with tack cloth, and then a final coat of paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>{Tack cloth is much more effective than just a wet rag and a pack of three is less than $3.}</div>
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Step 5: Use a mallet to hammer in the trim in your preferred pattern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This diamond shape is super easy to create.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Start in the outside corner and go into where the pull will be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leave a little room for the base of the pull {will vary depending on the pull style you use.}<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do this for each of the four corners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Find the midpoint between the knobs and then mark at the top and bottom of each drawer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The center diamond of trim will go from the knob to each of these marks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In some areas of the wood it will be incredibly easy to just push the nail in with your fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There will be some areas of the wood grain that are a pain to push the nail through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may want to purchase a separate package of just the decorative nails to make up for the few that become too bent and rendered useless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can use pliers to pull out the stubborn ones that decide to go in crooked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>{Blame the nail, not yourself! That's what I do at least.}</div>
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Step 6: Attach your drawer pulls.</div>
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Step 7: Lay your piece of tile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have left mine loose since I change my mind on a regular basis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> =) </span>However, you can easily apply clear silicone on the nightstand top to adhere the tile in a more permanent fashion.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/NighstandTop_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://i1170.photobucket.com/albums/r527/AbundantAbode/Sunday%20in%20Suburbia/NighstandTop_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detail of Marble Top</td></tr>
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I would love a little aubergine accessory for my nightstand, but nothing I have seen has really inspired me. For now I like my light and bright simple styling. The pillar candle is actually the unity candle from our wedding, and the feathery bejeweled item is my hair clip also from our wedding, so at least there is some meaning and purpose. I'm planning a trip to the Scott Antiques market soon, so maybe I'll uncover the perfect accent item!</div>
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<a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/09/30/diy-project-parade-52/" target="_blank">DIY Project Parade - Sunday</a></div>
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Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17124248726557118511noreply@blogger.com28