my new favourite coffee shop + some Canadian musicians

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMvneIOlf6K1GP-m4byJdyGnp3KipW20jk9HHjo2QGQYLTGiQiqrlfW-d7NtRddu_zGzqg8uBAMZ9OG6YcpNtsLQ5Tx7djxsqs_CBaocAqbC1iSJlvN5u09rJ3B0fmpG9ZKsK9Ab9_Ro/s1600/blank_Square35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMvneIOlf6K1GP-m4byJdyGnp3KipW20jk9HHjo2QGQYLTGiQiqrlfW-d7NtRddu_zGzqg8uBAMZ9OG6YcpNtsLQ5Tx7djxsqs_CBaocAqbC1iSJlvN5u09rJ3B0fmpG9ZKsK9Ab9_Ro/s1600/blank_Square35.jpg" /></a></div>In an effort to get rid of that creative block I've decided to try switching up my work environment. I had to go to an eye appointment this morning (<a href="http://aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.ca/2014/01/bits-pieces_10.html" target="_blank">no fainting!!</a>) and stopped in at a new coffee shop in my neighbourhood and <a href="http://web.stagram.com/p/665918652905867463_14524273" target="_blank">decided to sketch while nursing a cup of coffee</a>. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/madhuscafe" target="_blank">Madhüs Cafe</a> (982 Kingston Rd) is perhaps the best thing since sliced bread. And a welcomed addition to the neighbourhood.<br /><br />First of all, the atmosphere is amazing. Hints of Mid Century modern decor won me over. Then, who should I meet. But <a href="http://www.fredpenner.com/" target="_blank">Fred Penner</a> who was recording with <a href="http://duanegibson.wordpress.com/about/" target="_blank">Duane Gibson (D.O)</a> this song that I loved listening to from a distance. But afterwards I introduced myself and Fred Penner hugged me and was so absolutely sweet that I had a fan girl moment. I don't have fan girl moments with many people. And then he and I chatted about Wacom graphic tablets. *Sigh* My morning was made.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="518" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/C8WYejoFONY?rel=0" width="690"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Here is a video from <a href="http://web.stagram.com/n/madhuscafe/" target="_blank">MadHus's Instagram feed</a> just a few hours ago - I was in the other room drinking a coffee, sketching listening to this song. What you don't get to hear is Duane's voice which is too bad because he was amazing, and the combination of the two of them was really beautiful.<br /><br />So I'm skipping my regular Bits + Pieces Friday post to share my morning, my new favourite coffee shop and some Canadian musicians who are collaborating together. The owners are crazy amazing - check out this video from their Kickstarter campaign that I had to share - because it shows you the vibe of what the place is, what it's all about and how it's not just a coffee shop.<br /><br /><iframe frameborder="0" height="518" scrolling="no" src="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/166423209/madhus-our-very-first-cafe/widget/video.html" width="690"> </iframe> <br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/madhuscafe" target="_blank"> Madhüs Cafe</a> has music nights, and I know I'll be going back to listen with girlfriends, Aubrey, or even Oscar.<br /><br /><br /><b>My new favourite coffee shop in Toronto</b>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/madhuscafe" target="_blank">Madhüs Cafe</a> (982 Kingston Rd)<br /><b>Links to these amazing performers</b> / <a href="http://www.fredpenner.com/" target="_blank">Fred Penner</a> / <a href="http://duanegibson.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Duane Gibson </a><br />Watch this interview with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXLql4rFwUQ" target="_blank">Fred Penner on CBC here</a>!<br /><br />

my new favourite coffee shop + some Canadian musicians

In an effort to get rid of that creative block I've decided to try switching up my work environment. I had to go to an eye appointment this morning (no fainting!!) and stopped in at a new coffee shop in my neighbourhood and decided to sketch while nursing a cup of coffee. Madhüs Cafe (982 Kingston R…

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DIY Weekend Projects

Happpy Friday friends. It's still an arctic tundra here in Minneapolis (-25 degree windchill when I walked to the bus) so we'll be spending the weekend inside working on the house. Will spring ever come to us?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12835542573/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="DIY Weekend Projects by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="DIY Weekend Projects" height="480" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2823/12835542573_50a5786b29_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upcycledtreasures.com/2014/02/diy-sharpie-rug-west-elm-rug-knockoff/" target="_blank">West Elm Rug Knockoff</a> // <a href="http://www.tinysidekick.com/diy-hexagon-sharpie-wallpaper/" target="_blank">Hexagon Sharpie Wallpaper</a></div><br />Here are my favorite DIY projects of the week. These two are <i>amazing</i> projects that have definitely been added to my list of things I need to DIY.

DIY Weekend Projects

Happpy Friday friends. It's still an arctic tundra here in Minneapolis (-25 degree windchill when I walked to the bus) so we'll be spending the weekend inside working on the house. Will spring ever come to us?West Elm Rug Knockoff // Hexagon Sharpie WallpaperHere are my favorite DIY projects of the …

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A broken wrist and a chocolate factory...

Parfois les choses ne se passent pas tout à fait comme prévu... Comme la semaine dernière, où j'ai pris quelques jours pour aller faire du ski de fond dans les Vosges avec mon fils. Je n'avais pas vraiment prévu de me casser le poignet et terminer la semaine dans un bloc opératoire. Maintenant j'ai une broche et trois clous en titane dans mon poignet... Heureusement c'était la main gauche, ce qui me permet encore de manipuler une souris, même si taper sur le clavier avec une seule main n'est pas très rapide :-/<br /><br /><i>Sometimes things don't turn out exactly the way they were meant too... Like last week, when I took a couple of days off to go cross country skiing with my son in the Vosges area in northeast France. I hadn't exactly planned to break my wrist and end the week in an OR. Now I have a metal rod and three nails in my wrist... Luckily it's the left hand which means I can still handle a mouse, although typing with only one hand takes a looong time :-/</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsngPw9_usIFoP97vuTZien3-JFw3O0FjWpwrbhA9plpnlru4D3xWYtuxOhX28Co5jij-QbFbHzD80cS0Rv73OwuZm1fROww-ELEeX5T1gKPtB_U0NLPVcDeTn56AEZy5gWgERfWUfjNw/s1600/capture-20140228-130802.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsngPw9_usIFoP97vuTZien3-JFw3O0FjWpwrbhA9plpnlru4D3xWYtuxOhX28Co5jij-QbFbHzD80cS0Rv73OwuZm1fROww-ELEeX5T1gKPtB_U0NLPVcDeTn56AEZy5gWgERfWUfjNw/s1600/capture-20140228-130802.png" /></a></div><br />J'ai encore des photos de mon voyage à Stockholm à vous montrer, mais en attendant, voici des images du <a href="http://www.oscarproperties.com/projekt/chokladfabriken/" target="_blank">dernier projet de Oscar Properties</a>. Cette fois-ci il s'agit d'une ancienne usine de chocolat en plein centre de Stockholm qui sera transformée en appartements fabuleux. Voilà, rêvons un peu pour bien commencer le weekend!<br /><br /><i>I still have photos from my Stockholm trip to show you, but meanwhile here are some pictures from <a href="http://www.oscarproperties.com/projekt/chokladfabriken/" target="_blank">Oscar Properties' latest project.</a> This time it's an old chocolate factory in the city centre of Stockholm that will be converted into fabulous apartments. Let's start the weekend with some dreaming!</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-OsRk1elmwCpKQb5H6B5zIz-0pZ61quWCYJfJh8pm8AXn57En8_Z8wID22pbffGd6TxjIa0hbE20Mr27r1X3wvroqKgYl_2QfH6xo-Sv_Yd_ae88dyEwyyZgrxfFTSFQMhmx-ktpyK_M/s1600/capture-20140228-130918.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-OsRk1elmwCpKQb5H6B5zIz-0pZ61quWCYJfJh8pm8AXn57En8_Z8wID22pbffGd6TxjIa0hbE20Mr27r1X3wvroqKgYl_2QfH6xo-Sv_Yd_ae88dyEwyyZgrxfFTSFQMhmx-ktpyK_M/s1600/capture-20140228-130918.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvVB98jFEk8umpkncV3j7veRPSJKZiIyBTfnF2seOl4smK11LZyDMUWThrlpjJjPhG07h_xFj9alQKUmYcTyhOKPu2333evgfK3LVQJLXBOQb3H1GIOKi1jntj8ePkQ5kW2cj7BHfTr-E/s1600/capture-20140228-130739.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvVB98jFEk8umpkncV3j7veRPSJKZiIyBTfnF2seOl4smK11LZyDMUWThrlpjJjPhG07h_xFj9alQKUmYcTyhOKPu2333evgfK3LVQJLXBOQb3H1GIOKi1jntj8ePkQ5kW2cj7BHfTr-E/s1600/capture-20140228-130739.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyTElcizhgxZjr1iOWahTtBmpGycpmegKWIGUGzKBwp_grMvg_VkuF7RgwcYiM400gXaB5H287YGkyg9A2AAYWtPlLR4gtwHWvqQs-U7lmhfGtLhyLb0oWgkfu42X3x9fBjqZXKY8FKA/s1600/capture-20140228-130452.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyTElcizhgxZjr1iOWahTtBmpGycpmegKWIGUGzKBwp_grMvg_VkuF7RgwcYiM400gXaB5H287YGkyg9A2AAYWtPlLR4gtwHWvqQs-U7lmhfGtLhyLb0oWgkfu42X3x9fBjqZXKY8FKA/s1600/capture-20140228-130452.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfZqn1I3KZowW6CqJw9VDRK13jhcAxoa7GLimCkPhu_ynJ8hLOReVgSAbqHlowNrcJQOKqkpu0Z4ECXkwKjjapnbU3PMYnpYkWkktKTTPGSXWjS4GnWZZn_14TUaFW4yuebor9Ygz4qk/s1600/capture-20140228-131130.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfZqn1I3KZowW6CqJw9VDRK13jhcAxoa7GLimCkPhu_ynJ8hLOReVgSAbqHlowNrcJQOKqkpu0Z4ECXkwKjjapnbU3PMYnpYkWkktKTTPGSXWjS4GnWZZn_14TUaFW4yuebor9Ygz4qk/s1600/capture-20140228-131130.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuocFVLA3hHv64eFjxjgSaS_P0p1PuHfq6wqt2JAGEUtj-jGU_si4B9VjVuZHZyIScFR1UnyP1DWtwnSctKzIMGthvnXPPqw3ZR7GoIOIrxj9NWqszIJ1fxngrI7UW0ew9DZGTFpmTYwQ/s1600/capture-20140228-131229.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuocFVLA3hHv64eFjxjgSaS_P0p1PuHfq6wqt2JAGEUtj-jGU_si4B9VjVuZHZyIScFR1UnyP1DWtwnSctKzIMGthvnXPPqw3ZR7GoIOIrxj9NWqszIJ1fxngrI7UW0ew9DZGTFpmTYwQ/s1600/capture-20140228-131229.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUBcO6G-TydexgYMNocY0cDAP-xg8AH7LJBSCU-Oio2fKoyyvP5aqDOczhPU9Hyj5t1mAc0mwocvOOgMZf3rqec7frSQe3WYaW3AYeai_sgcYpRuleHSG0Nro7xsdC97OEgOXVuGy3d6k/s1600/capture-20140228-130625.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUBcO6G-TydexgYMNocY0cDAP-xg8AH7LJBSCU-Oio2fKoyyvP5aqDOczhPU9Hyj5t1mAc0mwocvOOgMZf3rqec7frSQe3WYaW3AYeai_sgcYpRuleHSG0Nro7xsdC97OEgOXVuGy3d6k/s1600/capture-20140228-130625.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw121aBtaybMRHYrpss98EoRvhfwf0Cl5F6h4-td8KH8TlcilrYwMcoao-7CsCVWY00z18lseWp-Sc6sRQibU5jjrw1ng2LTm45ATtYmt3fnwO6RR1xCx-X1PCQXfnmj9Cpa3ubLkFEPs/s1600/capture-20140228-131202.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw121aBtaybMRHYrpss98EoRvhfwf0Cl5F6h4-td8KH8TlcilrYwMcoao-7CsCVWY00z18lseWp-Sc6sRQibU5jjrw1ng2LTm45ATtYmt3fnwO6RR1xCx-X1PCQXfnmj9Cpa3ubLkFEPs/s1600/capture-20140228-131202.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Source: screen shots from <a href="http://www.oscarproperties.com/projekt/chokladfabriken/" target="_blank">Oscar Properties</a></i></div>

A broken wrist and a chocolate factory...

Parfois les choses ne se passent pas tout à fait comme prévu... Comme la semaine dernière, où j'ai pris quelques jours pour aller faire du ski de fond dans les Vosges avec mon fils. Je n'avais pas vraiment prévu de me casser le poignet et terminer la semaine dans un bloc opératoire. Maintenant j'ai …

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Showing off our Windows at Teal & Lime

Happy fourth Thursday of the month! And that means that today we're showing off <a href="http://www.tealandlime.com/2014/02/how-to-install-craftsman-style-window-trim/" target="_blank">how to install Craftsman Style window trim</a> over on Teal & Lime. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12813860365/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="DIY Craftsman Style Window Trim by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="DIY Craftsman Style Window Trim" height="468" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2863/12813860365_a87b678502_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />You too, can make a transformation like this!!  It's simpler than you think.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12813947153/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Update your window trim by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Update your window trim" height="978" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2820/12813947153_55a6cf6684_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Swing by Teal & Lime to <a href="http://www.tealandlime.com/2014/02/how-to-install-craftsman-style-window-trim/" target="_blank">see our step-by-step instructions</a>! <br /><br /><b><b><b><b>Linking up to: <a href="http://www.maisondepax.com/" target="_blank">Give Me The Goods Monday</a>, <a href="http://thededicatedhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Pretty Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.keepingitsimplecrafts.com/" target="_blank">Motivate Me Monday</a>,  <a href="http://www.creativelylivingblog.com/" target="_blank">Monday Funday</a>, <a href="http://diyshowoff.com/" target="_blank">That DIY Party</a>, <a href="http://modvintagelife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mod Mix Monday,</a> <a href="http://mariaelenasdecor.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesdays at Our Home</a>, <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/2013/09/washi-tape-home-decor-ideas/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic</a>, <a href="http://www.thegunnysack.com/" target="_blank">Time to Sparkle</a>,  <a href="http://theturquoisehome.com/" target="_blank">Work It Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://www.simplydreamandcreate.com/" target="_blank">Simply Create Thursdays</a>, <a href="http://www.thegirlcreative.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Best</a>, <a href="http://www.lizmarieblog.com/" target="_blank">Inspire Me Please</a> <a href="http://www.shakentogetherlife.com/2013/09/whats-shakin-link-party-77-share-your-creativity.html" target="_blank">Creativity Unleashed</a>, <a href="http://www.oneprojectcloser.com/thebetterhalf/" target="_blank">The Humble Brag</a>, <a href="http://www.thejennyevolution.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flash Blog</a>, <a href="http://www.seasonedhomemaker.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Ladies Linky</a>,  <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/" target="_blank">Wow Us Wednesday,</a>  <a href="http://gracelangdon.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Making Monday</a>, <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Before and Afters,</a> <a href="http://lemonpaperdesigns.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://croppedstories.blogspot.com/p/the-pincentive-blog-hop.html#.UoA0f-i6Tui" target="_blank">Pincentive Blog Hop,</a> <a href="http://www.gingersnapcrafts.com/" target="_blank">Wow Me Wednesday,</a><a href="http://www.livelaughrowe.com/" target="_blank"> </a> <a href="http://designdininganddiapers.com/" target="_blank">Inspiration Gallery,</a>  <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Feathered Nest Friday, </a> <a href="http://whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">The Party Bunch,</a> <a href="http://twoityourself.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Link it or Lump it,</a>  <a href="http://www.thecasualcraftlete.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Crafty Home Party</a>, <a href="http://diybydesign.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's a Party</a>, <a href="http://thecraftiestallie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Worthwhile Wednesday's</a>, <a href="http://www.tinysidekick.com/" target="_blank">The Makers</a>, <a href="http://www.mabeyshemadeit.com/" target="_blank">Do Tell Tuesdays</a>, <a href="http://lifeinvelvet.com/" target="_blank">Thursday Style</a>, </b></b></b></b>

Showing off our Windows at Teal & Lime

Happy fourth Thursday of the month! And that means that today we're showing off how to install Craftsman Style window trim over on Teal & Lime. You too, can make a transformation like this!!  It's simpler than you think.Swing by Teal & Lime to see our step-by-step instructions! Linking up to: Give M…

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1 Kanal Modern + Simple + Elegant House Design For Karachi , @ PLot size 50' X 90'

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhA_7-jDKMfnBGRWwPBIqJQ16dF8LnnRL2udtGYO_hPYsl0TN0m0ox84V2Hm5p42qwledfOdOWTyuHvn8oNE1eXNGvVNjVBU84odvnAkEACOJ0qJC3w_futlbOWfwidyg-0cHqpmt1-gr/s1600/1+Kanal+Contemporary+Design+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhA_7-jDKMfnBGRWwPBIqJQ16dF8LnnRL2udtGYO_hPYsl0TN0m0ox84V2Hm5p42qwledfOdOWTyuHvn8oNE1eXNGvVNjVBU84odvnAkEACOJ0qJC3w_futlbOWfwidyg-0cHqpmt1-gr/s1600/1+Kanal+Contemporary+Design+(1).jpg" width="1280" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnlzfmnlCyN-RIjRbhFky4AkKXaMDKff9KbKFFfmYL8pt6I1w6QsUdXSpChdzl0aFBWO1Rb3-Y3G5DcRGGEauyu6xHy38HHCUaAL7HhkQw8v6Pz67xGPWjgDFQPkXyEOFLdvrhKOgloUDp/s1600/1+Kanal+Contemporary+Design+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnlzfmnlCyN-RIjRbhFky4AkKXaMDKff9KbKFFfmYL8pt6I1w6QsUdXSpChdzl0aFBWO1Rb3-Y3G5DcRGGEauyu6xHy38HHCUaAL7HhkQw8v6Pz67xGPWjgDFQPkXyEOFLdvrhKOgloUDp/s1600/1+Kanal+Contemporary+Design+(2).jpg" width="1280" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpTF6X525A60wZTdoL9jaAnSc9wxRh3Ttj2Uo3ObV2A-rJPDp8pJETcvTZEiZ4WK5Zd0IPiW75DYV3inQtOUaoHYCzFxgJtOibFtLxG7fArfYfAJvg_fArbLvy9q-GQm1dtyNP7VhW3uI_/s1600/1+Kanal+Contemporary+Design+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpTF6X525A60wZTdoL9jaAnSc9wxRh3Ttj2Uo3ObV2A-rJPDp8pJETcvTZEiZ4WK5Zd0IPiW75DYV3inQtOUaoHYCzFxgJtOibFtLxG7fArfYfAJvg_fArbLvy9q-GQm1dtyNP7VhW3uI_/s1600/1+Kanal+Contemporary+Design+(3).jpg" width="1280" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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1 Kanal Modern + Simple + Elegant House Design For Karachi , @ PLot size 50' X 90'

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Optimizing our Closet

As part of our Master Suite Remodel, we're building a brand new closet so I've been planning out how to best optimize the space.<br /><br />While I don't have any great photos of our old closet <i>(honestly, it was too small to really take photos large enough to tell what was going on)</i> I do have this one. Overwhelming, right? <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12795112034/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Closet by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Closet" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3732/12795112034_cf114ba83c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />I've got <i>a lot</i> of clothes. And shoes. And scarves. I may be addicted. <br /><br />The square footage of our new closet is almost identical to our last, in a longer, rectangular shape. But I'm hoping with some optimization, we'll be able to make the space much more manageable. I've thought long and hard about what I want this space to achieve and how it can be better optimized for us. <br /><br /><h4>Must Have's for Optimizing Storage in Closet:</h4><ul><li>Lots of space for hanging clothes</li><li>A tall space for long dresses and pants to hang</li><li>Drawers or shelves for folded clothes like sweaters and gym clothes </li><li>Shoe storage</li><li>Purse storage</li><li>Scarf storage</li><li>A space for jewelry, sunglasses and other random pieces</li></ul>And lastly, I want it to look nice. How can we make it look as organized and beautiful as possible, instead of the cluttered mess our last closet was?<br /><br />So here's our plan:<br /><br />Back wall of closet, view from door: <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12794700855/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Closet Plans1 by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Closet Plans1" height="826" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2808/12794700855_f52d81b2e9_c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Left wall of closet, view from door:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12795119594/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Closet Plans2 by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Closet Plans2" height="813" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7361/12795119594_d11660e49c_c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />We'll be building this all ourselves, so it's can be completely custom to our design. I'll have plenty of shelf space for everything from shoes to sweaters to scarves.<br /><br />One of the ways I'm planning to make the space look more organized, is with some really smart storage solutions. Things like front-flap shoe boxes, purse storage and plenty of cute baskets.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12795174923/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Closet Storage Solutions by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Closet Storage Solutions" height="400" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2823/12795174923_06cd4597bb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://rstyle.me/n/fyg2d342w" target="_blank">Purse Storage</a> // <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/fyg39342w" target="_blank">Drawer Organizers</a> // <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50107975/" target="_blank">Fabric Storage Baskets</a> // <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/fyg2v342w" target="_blank">Drop-Front Shoe Storage Boxes</a> // <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40164947/" target="_blank">Clear Drawer Organizers </a></div><br />So what do you think? Did I miss anything?<br /><br /><b><b><b><b>Linking up to: <a href="http://www.maisondepax.com/" target="_blank">Give Me The Goods Monday</a>, <a href="http://thededicatedhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Pretty Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.keepingitsimplecrafts.com/" target="_blank">Motivate Me Monday</a>,  <a href="http://www.creativelylivingblog.com/" target="_blank">Monday Funday</a>, <a href="http://diyshowoff.com/" target="_blank">That DIY Party</a>, <a href="http://modvintagelife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mod Mix Monday,</a> <a href="http://mariaelenasdecor.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesdays at Our Home</a>, <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/2013/09/washi-tape-home-decor-ideas/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic</a>, <a href="http://www.thegunnysack.com/" target="_blank">Time to Sparkle</a>,  <a href="http://theturquoisehome.com/" target="_blank">Work It Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://www.simplydreamandcreate.com/" target="_blank">Simply Create Thursdays</a>, <a href="http://www.thegirlcreative.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Best</a>, <a href="http://www.lizmarieblog.com/" target="_blank">Inspire Me Please</a> <a href="http://www.shakentogetherlife.com/2013/09/whats-shakin-link-party-77-share-your-creativity.html" target="_blank">Creativity Unleashed</a>, <a href="http://www.oneprojectcloser.com/thebetterhalf/" target="_blank">The Humble Brag</a>, <a href="http://www.thejennyevolution.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flash Blog</a>, <a href="http://www.seasonedhomemaker.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Ladies Linky</a>,  <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/" target="_blank">Wow Us Wednesday,</a>  <a href="http://gracelangdon.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Making Monday</a>, <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Before and Afters,</a> <a href="http://lemonpaperdesigns.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://croppedstories.blogspot.com/p/the-pincentive-blog-hop.html#.UoA0f-i6Tui" target="_blank">Pincentive Blog Hop,</a> <a href="http://www.gingersnapcrafts.com/" target="_blank">Wow Me Wednesday,</a><a href="http://www.livelaughrowe.com/" target="_blank"> </a> <a href="http://designdininganddiapers.com/" target="_blank">Inspiration Gallery,</a>  <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Feathered Nest Friday, </a> <a href="http://whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">The Party Bunch,</a> <a href="http://twoityourself.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Link it or Lump it,</a>  <a href="http://www.thecasualcraftlete.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Crafty Home Party</a>, <a href="http://diybydesign.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's a Party</a>, <a href="http://thecraftiestallie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Worthwhile Wednesday's</a>, <a href="http://www.tinysidekick.com/" target="_blank">The Makers</a>, <a href="http://www.mabeyshemadeit.com/" target="_blank">Do Tell Tuesdays</a>,   </b></b></b></b>

Optimizing our Closet

As part of our Master Suite Remodel, we're building a brand new closet so I've been planning out how to best optimize the space.While I don't have any great photos of our old closet (honestly, it was too small to really take photos large enough to tell what was going on) I do have this one. Overwhel…

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Value Village: Coloured Glass

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif7IDP8lJMcPWkw9AAPiSwTvqM3qanmvOhyAPiCpmNLTf2jy0qqAaGoWpP3XmJkgcGJSkdtTO4G2z2IOW-2hN6EKtOfkSH9CXdLNttUM052CFmLyhtmPXagjcc_xYOzGwuxiR1Uoy3o3c/s1600/glass_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif7IDP8lJMcPWkw9AAPiSwTvqM3qanmvOhyAPiCpmNLTf2jy0qqAaGoWpP3XmJkgcGJSkdtTO4G2z2IOW-2hN6EKtOfkSH9CXdLNttUM052CFmLyhtmPXagjcc_xYOzGwuxiR1Uoy3o3c/s1600/glass_1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA45Dxc4q-dRJxfcZSFaIPxQOS95pYnQCCZZc1FGYvXl9gioX4bm097oBsYLt1BtX8Sdm7pJ2fK2ki9jXQYZGRHT2xRig70olFCRbiFF-caIg_B3b5xQHun6Krq29aKuDmoti9ujyn4dU/s1600/IMG_1263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA45Dxc4q-dRJxfcZSFaIPxQOS95pYnQCCZZc1FGYvXl9gioX4bm097oBsYLt1BtX8Sdm7pJ2fK2ki9jXQYZGRHT2xRig70olFCRbiFF-caIg_B3b5xQHun6Krq29aKuDmoti9ujyn4dU/s1600/IMG_1263.jpg" /></a></div><br />I found some new treasures at Value Village a few weeks ago. One was this glass vase, or perhaps bowl? Aubrey's reaction when he saw it was "What's <i>that</i>?" I guess it <i>is </i>pretty weird looking. But the pink was too beautiful not to pass up. I have no idea really what it is, but I think it adds a nice pop of pink to our living room (it's not staying there, as shown below) but was the best light. Value Village always has coloured glass vases up for grabs, I liked this particular one because it was low, so it doesn't demand a lot of real estate in the house. Too tall and it would be more of a statement - the size and colour really are what attracted me to it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNwcGGa1JjtTv2RTNkzsAMuuvb8voMP2Xm01V5EhRJYkFadPclBwSTAWRVeqiki9UHL67Gzl8XME1el_t40AyIvzr913-o_8Xepkrlfb2mn_l1sQ6fa64csIAW5iXOr9yvxPg4JTE4O8/s1600/IMG_1257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNwcGGa1JjtTv2RTNkzsAMuuvb8voMP2Xm01V5EhRJYkFadPclBwSTAWRVeqiki9UHL67Gzl8XME1el_t40AyIvzr913-o_8Xepkrlfb2mn_l1sQ6fa64csIAW5iXOr9yvxPg4JTE4O8/s1600/IMG_1257.jpg" /></a></div><br />If you are in Value Village or thrift shops don't pass by those colourful glass bowls / vases / weird things. Sometimes all their function needs to be in a home is to add some colour and make you smile. (Or make your husband think you've lost your marbles)

Value Village: Coloured Glass

I found some new treasures at Value Village a few weeks ago. One was this glass vase, or perhaps bowl? Aubrey's reaction when he saw it was "What's that?" I guess it is pretty weird looking. But the pink was too beautiful not to pass up. I have no idea really what it is, but I think it adds a nice p…

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Master Bedroom Rug Decisions

As you probably have realized, I'm a very visual person. Before I can pull the trigger on any design decisions in our home, I need to be able to visualize what it will look like. And today I'm shopping for a rug for our Master Bedroom.<br /><br />Here are four rugs I'm eying from <a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/" target="_blank">NaturalAreaRugs.com</a>. Excuse my terrible Photoshopping skills here, but which one would you choose? <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12682349695/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Master Bedroom Rug Options by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Master Bedroom Rug Options" height="428" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3691/12682349695_4c9dcbaa15_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12682823494/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Master Bedroom Rug Options Two by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Master Bedroom Rug Options Two" height="428" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3733/12682823494_ccc5854843_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Top Left: <a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/custom-wool-rugs/pre-made-ariana.php?mm=114" target="_blank">Ariana Wool Rug</a> // Top Right: <a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/custom-wool-rugs/pre-made-ashton.php" target="_blank">Ashton Wool Rug</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Bottom Left: <a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/contemporary-shag-rugs/radiance.php?mm=114" target="_blank">Radiance Rug</a> // Bottom Right: <a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/custom-wool-rugs/pre-made-winslow.php?mm=114" target="_blank">Winslow Wool Rug</a> </div><br />I'm leaning towards the bottom two. Thoughts?<br /><br /><b><b><b><b>Linking up to: <a href="http://www.maisondepax.com/" target="_blank">Give Me The Goods Monday</a>, <a href="http://thededicatedhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Pretty Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.keepingitsimplecrafts.com/" target="_blank">Motivate Me Monday</a>,  <a href="http://www.creativelylivingblog.com/" target="_blank">Monday Funday</a>, <a href="http://diyshowoff.com/" target="_blank">That DIY Party</a>, <a href="http://modvintagelife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mod Mix Monday,</a> <a href="http://mariaelenasdecor.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesdays at Our Home</a>, <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/2013/09/washi-tape-home-decor-ideas/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic</a>, <a href="http://www.thegunnysack.com/" target="_blank">Time to Sparkle</a>,  <a href="http://theturquoisehome.com/" target="_blank">Work It Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://www.simplydreamandcreate.com/" target="_blank">Simply Create Thursdays</a>, <a href="http://www.thegirlcreative.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Best</a>, <a href="http://www.lizmarieblog.com/" target="_blank">Inspire Me Please</a> <a href="http://www.shakentogetherlife.com/2013/09/whats-shakin-link-party-77-share-your-creativity.html" target="_blank">Creativity Unleashed</a>, <a href="http://www.oneprojectcloser.com/thebetterhalf/" target="_blank">The Humble Brag</a>, <a href="http://www.thejennyevolution.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flash Blog</a>, <a href="http://www.seasonedhomemaker.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Ladies Linky</a>,  <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/" target="_blank">Wow Us Wednesday,</a>  <a href="http://gracelangdon.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Making Monday</a>, <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Before and Afters,</a> <a href="http://lemonpaperdesigns.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://croppedstories.blogspot.com/p/the-pincentive-blog-hop.html#.UoA0f-i6Tui" target="_blank">Pincentive Blog Hop,</a> <a href="http://www.gingersnapcrafts.com/" target="_blank">Wow Me Wednesday,</a><a href="http://www.livelaughrowe.com/" target="_blank"> </a> <a href="http://designdininganddiapers.com/" target="_blank">Inspiration Gallery,</a>  <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Feathered Nest Friday, </a> <a href="http://whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">The Party Bunch,</a> <a href="http://twoityourself.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Link it or Lump it,</a>  <a href="http://www.thecasualcraftlete.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Crafty Home Party</a>, <a href="http://diybydesign.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's a Party</a>, <a href="http://thecraftiestallie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Worthwhile Wednesday's</a>, <a href="http://www.tinysidekick.com/" target="_blank">The Makers</a>, <a href="http://www.mabeyshemadeit.com/" target="_blank">Do Tell Tuesdays</a>,  </b></b></b></b>

Master Bedroom Rug Decisions

As you probably have realized, I'm a very visual person. Before I can pull the trigger on any design decisions in our home, I need to be able to visualize what it will look like. And today I'm shopping for a rug for our Master Bedroom.Here are four rugs I'm eying from NaturalAreaRugs.com. Excuse my …

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sketches

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmkAsB1R_p7pPE3q-RvvHvy2Kk6g27LKKSq84lCKdB-wdi5ooLai07641oyfizypAchg4Fq3DtEmTZy8vfObu72dAAmUYDJ7aUA-7PDH1fSU2S5yf_BEvuK2ObAHqk2GYCJgeWYcM92m4/s1600/IMG_1236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmkAsB1R_p7pPE3q-RvvHvy2Kk6g27LKKSq84lCKdB-wdi5ooLai07641oyfizypAchg4Fq3DtEmTZy8vfObu72dAAmUYDJ7aUA-7PDH1fSU2S5yf_BEvuK2ObAHqk2GYCJgeWYcM92m4/s1600/IMG_1236.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnElE9vJtj-22K1ljsCCN63R2eWlJh3Go9dQN_TgW7s8aN_qYF2iIjmp8ReSceNC641uzb8TNR2TRLjUVKf68lBgfJ-QaFR4HMUR4CXHCXCImfJZx17jzjCvYusbsqV0V5TJgkti1SWpE/s1600/IMG_1256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnElE9vJtj-22K1ljsCCN63R2eWlJh3Go9dQN_TgW7s8aN_qYF2iIjmp8ReSceNC641uzb8TNR2TRLjUVKf68lBgfJ-QaFR4HMUR4CXHCXCImfJZx17jzjCvYusbsqV0V5TJgkti1SWpE/s1600/IMG_1256.jpg" /></a></div><br />Over the last year I have struggled with not being inspired to draw / sketch. A younger me could have drawn for hours upon hours - but I've lost the interest in my<a href="http://aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.ca/2011/10/sketches.html" target="_blank"> cartoon drawings of "Penny People"</a>. It has started to bother me that I didn't know <i>what </i>to draw. The lack of interest and passion to do it was a source of a little stress. And so, I have been focusing on trying to get out of that funk.<br /><br />I've been doing a few things - I invested in some new tools to draw with and I started looking at art I would have in my home - art that I loved to look at. I've realized that my love is lying with abstract as I mentioned in <a href="http://aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.ca/2014/02/abstract-art-inspiration.html" target="_blank">this post</a>, but also - the lines of figure drawing and sketching of people. And in this exploration of art, I started to be reacquainted with some famous men such as-  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henri_Matisse" target="_blank">Matisse</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pablo_Picasso" target="_blank">Picasso </a> and saw that they have varying styles of art. With these new discoveries I've been finding inspiration everywhere and have an overwhelming desire to sketch and draw.<i> </i><br /><br />As an artist, it's terribly hard to deviate from a style of work people know you for - I don't know if one ever grows out of being timid to show work.  I framed the sketch of gentlemen that I did a few weeks back, and it hangs in our living room (shown above). Funny thing, it actually reminds me a lot of my Dad. It's amazing - a few lines and you have a face, and one that can remind you of someone. I may work up the courage to sell the prints as I think they are absolutely beautiful (I'm biased obviously) But I have to work on a more cohesive collection. If you like the same type of art, below will be of interest to you...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvhBL8iGG5UUKeBB62xBis_p-KedNcvwL-SfHSQPVDsjKo-l1iZTKmVjsp2F0JaNhadgNu2PXJPZaRCgSxGtz82vUWjGuitvlM4tcRMGrrnrvrXYpudB83qoVcje27jXQMq2i_VROsaMg/s1600/11111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvhBL8iGG5UUKeBB62xBis_p-KedNcvwL-SfHSQPVDsjKo-l1iZTKmVjsp2F0JaNhadgNu2PXJPZaRCgSxGtz82vUWjGuitvlM4tcRMGrrnrvrXYpudB83qoVcje27jXQMq2i_VROsaMg/s1600/11111.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://prf.hn/click/camref:11l3pT/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etsy.com%2Fpages%2Flittlehouseblog%2Fsketches%3Fref%3Dpg_index_21" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Above - Art via Etsy</i></span></a></div><br />If you like the look of simple lines and sketches - I thought I'd show some <a href="http://prf.hn/click/camref:11l3pT/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etsy.com%2Fpages%2Flittlehouseblog%2Fsketches%3Fref%3Dpg_index_21" target="_blank">of the ones I found on Etsy</a>. I think the top are absolutely <i>beautiful</i>. A younger me may have been embarrassed at the nudes but I think bums are terribly cute and I think the human form - especially a womans, is beautiful. Maybe because my body changed after childbirth and I've grown more comfortable with it - can I see the beauty in the curves. Anyhow, just some reflection today on my art, where it was and where it's going I suppose.<br /><br /><i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">*affiliate links are in this post</span></i>.

sketches

Over the last year I have struggled with not being inspired to draw / sketch. A younger me could have drawn for hours upon hours - but I've lost the interest in my cartoon drawings of "Penny People". It has started to bother me that I didn't know what to draw. The lack of interest and passion to do …

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Richard Scarry's "Best Mother Goose Ever"

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GnLc1pI1yLgYCJfzcYlfCgSTieXkLOCC4zQL9eKQCzUzgojzYrSGMrPFDfkmX-s6OO5GsRey82zhBcLzRs9plz4Z7cxERtJwhHgiiKNCaljwETKgEGqe-NIbTl-K57FIs9e1RJVCxWo/s1600/IMG_1242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_bI3jXushtdvA90FF12XXKCx8N8JFhnDCwwMnZxSW0PGfXal16sIxVcOu6ok914Izpbn7AdVYBVYlsIN8y8wE6j1TqGhpDCD6br54YuQ3lgo-wenEyGJmho45dsSAUQvxGzth4f-lF8/s1600/IMG_1244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_bI3jXushtdvA90FF12XXKCx8N8JFhnDCwwMnZxSW0PGfXal16sIxVcOu6ok914Izpbn7AdVYBVYlsIN8y8wE6j1TqGhpDCD6br54YuQ3lgo-wenEyGJmho45dsSAUQvxGzth4f-lF8/s1600/IMG_1244.jpg" /></a><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GnLc1pI1yLgYCJfzcYlfCgSTieXkLOCC4zQL9eKQCzUzgojzYrSGMrPFDfkmX-s6OO5GsRey82zhBcLzRs9plz4Z7cxERtJwhHgiiKNCaljwETKgEGqe-NIbTl-K57FIs9e1RJVCxWo/s1600/IMG_1242.jpg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5sYFd_nrUoyu1bOVR5SY4LWDk0q7rjB5ZyGaDCyXusVoyCYqB3uFfkXY4JwS5luiq8-3yFKmuL9eVyfO-MlQS_mJk5QkmyoyZSO-KuCyWoRmHw-GpWDKIO0s_HQLU8aw88F33zWk4vPQ/s1600/IMG_1243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5sYFd_nrUoyu1bOVR5SY4LWDk0q7rjB5ZyGaDCyXusVoyCYqB3uFfkXY4JwS5luiq8-3yFKmuL9eVyfO-MlQS_mJk5QkmyoyZSO-KuCyWoRmHw-GpWDKIO0s_HQLU8aw88F33zWk4vPQ/s1600/IMG_1243.jpg" /></a></div>I found a vintage <a href="http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/richard-scarrys-best-mother-goose/9780307155788-item.html?ikwid=Richard+Scarry%27s+Best+Mother+Goose+Ever&ikwsec=Home&gcs_requestid=0COC1nPCb5bwCFYVD5wod8DAAAA" target="_blank">Richard Scarry's Best Mother Goose Ever</a> on the shelf at Value Village - complete with an inscription to Lindsay, dated 1977. Obviously, the book was meant to be mine. ;) I'm a sucker for Richard Scarry. It's the sweetest Mother Goose book and still in production. Have a new baby on the way, or, looking for a gift for someone? This book will be a classic in their library! Love, love, love. Oscar and I snuggle up and read this at night - the illustrations are just so sweet and captivating.<br /><br />Available on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Richard-Scarrys-Mother-Little-Golden/dp/0307155781" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, and <a href="http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/richard-scarrys-best-mother-goose/9780307155788-item.html?ikwid=Richard+Scarry%27s+Best+Mother+Goose+Ever&ikwsec=Home&gcs_requestid=0COC1nPCb5bwCFYVD5wod8DAAAA" target="_blank">Indigo</a>.<br /><br />

Richard Scarry's "Best Mother Goose Ever"

I found a vintage Richard Scarry's Best Mother Goose Ever on the shelf at Value Village - complete with an inscription to Lindsay, dated 1977. Obviously, the book was meant to be mine. ;) I'm a sucker for Richard Scarry. It's the sweetest Mother Goose book and still in production. Have a new baby on…

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The DIY'ers #51

Welcome back to The DIY'ers! I'm excited to see what you've been DIY'ing lately. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/11788719513/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="The DIY'ers Header by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="The DIY'ers Header" height="300" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7350/11788719513_187df8e2b6_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Here's what we've DIY'ed this week!<br /><br /><b>Kayla's Projects from Home Coming </b> <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12727507933/" title="DIY'ers Projects Collage by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="DIY'ers Projects Collage" height="400" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2890/12727507933_5482e4fc64_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br /><a href="http://homecomingmn.blogspot.com/2014/02/shop-room-our-ikea-guest-bedroom.html" target="_blank">Shop the Room: Guest Bedroom</a> // <a href="http://homecomingmn.blogspot.com/2014/02/home-renovation-progress-update-3.html" target="_blank">Home Renovation Progress Update #3</a> // <a href="http://homecomingmn.blogspot.com/2014/02/ask-audience-how-to-stencil.html" target="_blank">Stencil Fail</a></div><br /><br /><b>Rea's Projects from Home for 4 Sweet Home </b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12727503463/" title="Rea's Project Collage by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Rea's Project Collage" height="400" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3707/12727503463_ab2c9c1b42_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://homefor4sweethome.blogspot.com/2014/02/repurpose-juice-can-to-headband-holder.html" target="_blank">Repurpose: Juice Can to Headband Holder</a> // <a href="http://homefor4sweethome.blogspot.com/2014/02/chocolate-dipped-pretzel-rods.html" target="_blank">Chocolate Dipped Pretzel Rods</a> // <a href="http://homefor4sweethome.blogspot.com/2014/02/last-minute-valentine-shirt-for-my-son.html" target="_blank">Heart Button Covers</a> // <a href="http://homefor4sweethome.blogspot.com/2014/02/fashion-friday-spring-fever-outfit.html" target="_blank">[Fashion <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_494475638"><span class="aQJ">Friday</span></span>] Spring Fever Outfit</a><span class="HOEnZb"><span style="color: #888888;"><br /></span></span></span></div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/9496245376/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="The DIY'ers Top 3 by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="The DIY'ers Top 3" height="140" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3826/9496245376_98a6eaf077_o.jpg" width="600" /></a><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12727180515/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Wooden Ladder turned blanket rack by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Wooden Ladder turned blanket rack" height="841" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7364/12727180515_2d1c33b190_c.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://whimsyrenee.blogspot.com/2014/02/wooden-ladder-turned-blanket-rack.html" target="_blank">Whimsey Renee</a> shared her Wooden Ladder turned Blanket Rack. Such a good idea! </td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12727333633/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Kitchen Update on a Budget by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="Kitchen Update on a Budget" height="425" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3778/12727333633_70ee70f8b1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amy from <a href="http://www.delineateyourdwelling.com/2014/02/kitchen-updates.html" target="_blank">Delineate Your Dwelling</a> shared how to get a high end looking kitchen on a budget.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22623969@N03/12727180685/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="DIY Labels by Home Coming, on Flickr"><img alt="DIY Labels" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2811/12727180685_a0e8b6b28e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katie from <a href="http://viewfromthefridge.com/dirty-little-secret-friday-labels/" target="_blank">View from the Fridge</a> shared a smart DIY Label making idea. </td></tr></tbody></table>All featured projects will be pinned to <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/klacowsky/the-diyers-party-highlights/" target="_blank">The DIY'ers Pinterest board</a> - so don't forget to follow. Or, follow along with all of my Pinterest boards <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/klacowsky/" target="_blank">here</a>!<br /><br /><br /> <a data-pin-board-width="640" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="200" data-pin-scale-width="115" href="http://www.pinterest.com/klacowsky/the-diyers-party-highlights/"></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br />Now onto the party!<br /><br /><a href="http://homecomingmn.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20DIY%27ers" target="_blank" title="TheDIYers"><img alt="The DIY'ers" height="100" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8492982155_c22507aecc_t.jpg" width="100" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><div style="font-weight: bold;"></div><textarea cols="18" name="Grab My Button" readonly="readonly" rows="3"><a href="http://homecomingmn.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20DIY%27ers" target="_blank" title="Running on Happiness"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8492982155_c22507aecc_t.jpg" width="100" height="100" alt="The DIY'ers" /></a> />

The Rules? They're simple!

1. Follow each host somehow; any way is fine! 
2. Take a picture of your DIY and link it up below. 
3. Text link back to Home Coming, Home Sweet Home or pick up The DIY'ers button from the left sidebar and include it in your post so others can get involved in The DIY party.
   

The DIY'ers #51

Welcome back to The DIY'ers! I'm excited to see what you've been DIY'ing lately. Here's what we've DIY'ed this week!Kayla's Projects from Home Coming  Shop the Room: Guest Bedroom // Home Renovation Progress Update #3 // Stencil FailRea's Projects from Home for 4 Sweet Home Repurpose: Juice Can to…

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Questions about Faucet Choices, Paint Colors, and Wicker Furniture

<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1090097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1090097.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> We’re getting ready to sell our home. The faucets in both bathroom sinks match the faucets in the tub and shower stalls.<br /><br />They all work and are in good condition, but they are shiny chrome, and dated. Should I invest in new ones that look more in step with the times? – Sarah H.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A:</span></b> Spend your money somewhere else. There’s no sense removing and replacing this kind of hardware that is functioning just fine.<br /><br />The fact that they are all the same style makes them appear new-ish, more like what you might find in a new house rather than an older one that’s had repairs over the years when things broke. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I would give the same advice to people with “dated” hinges and doorknobs, and even window locks. Working, and matching, keep them! When it comes to hardware like this, unless you want to purchase pricey top of the line stuff, most of what you buy today doesn't compare to the quality commonly available even a few decades ago.   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> I am planning to stage the condo we just moved out of. It’s vacant except for a dining set, some end tables, and lamps. I’d like to add some wicker furniture because that’s easy to find at reasonable prices here in <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>. What do you think of wicker?  -- Erica S. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>As long as it is in good condition and comfortable, I would use wicker. Make sure any cushions look new and that the colors or patterns are not too bright or distracting. You’ll probably need a few pieces of contemporary or vintage upscale furniture (or what looks upscale) as well, so the condo doesn’t look too budget-conscious. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I don't recommend using outdoor wicker indoors. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/liz-williams-interiors-amelia-island1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/liz-williams-interiors-amelia-island1.png" width="492" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Wicker doesn't have to be white. But in a staged room it probably <br />shouldn't be neon pink and lime green either. These simple wicker headboards <br />got a style boost from black paint. Photo: Liz Williams Interiors</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> All the rooms in my house are now different colors – mint green in the living room, a burnt orange in the family room, peach in one bedroom and blue in another. I want to paint all the rooms myself, and paint them all the same color. Doing one at a time, I know I can do it. My question is how do I figure out what color that will work with all the rooms?   -- Justine P.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>Good for you for tackling the staging job yourself! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">You need to determine what elements in all your rooms will remain in the house and then find a color that works with these “fixed fixtures.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">These fixtures could be the vinyl or tile in the bath, for example, or the carpet in the bedrooms. I would bring home from the paint store all the brochures that feature shades of neutrals and white, and find one color that has the undertones that harmonize with all your fixed fixtures. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I've blogged about the details of <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-choose-paint-color-easy-way.html" target="_blank">how to choose a paint color</a>. And, yes, white walls are fine for staging!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/a2c633f4db1a009a2fd9024e17686bef1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/a2c633f4db1a009a2fd9024e17686bef1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">White walls make it easy for you to use the furnishings you already own,<br />and white walls make it easy for the new owner to postpone painting.<br />There's a reason museums and art galleries use white walls.<br />It  makes a great background color.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q: </span></b>Our home is for sale, and we have moved to a nearby town. The house is clean and empty. What can I do to make it sell fast?  Don’t say add furniture because there is no way I can afford that.  -- Keesha M.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>I understand. Although I always recommend <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/02/strategies-for-staging-vacant-house.html" target="_blank">staging an empty home</a>, my experience is that if a house is clean, in good repair, and priced right, you will find a buyer. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Make sure there is no deferred maintenance (a home inspection would help). The walls and possibly the trim should be freshly painted or at least look like they have been recently painted. And if there is carpet, it should be new or appear new. These are investments that pay off with a faster sale. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Good appliances, updated light fixtures, and extra-special curb appeal will sweeten the deal. Here are some other <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/08/staged-and-vacant.html" target="_blank">tips for selling an unoccupied home</a>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> We are listing our home with a realtor. He took a photo of the house just after it snowed. It looks pretty but I don’t want people to think about problems like snow when they see the photo, which will be the featured photo in our MLS listing. The exterior won’t look great until spring. What can I do meanwhile? -- Rachael and Alex B.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>There isn’t much you can do unless you have another <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/how-not-to-photograph-your-home.html" target="_blank">photo of your house in</a> another season. Most people don’t, so there is a lesson here for all home owners: Even if you are not thinking of selling your home immediately, having good pictures of your home in different seasons can come in handy in the future. <br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-bigstock-Middle-Class-House-547336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-bigstock-Middle-Class-House-547336.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A photo of a snow covered property can be charming, but the profile photo <br />of your home on a listing should be current with the season so the home doesn't <br />appear to have been on the market for a long time.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">When your exterior gets some springtime color, you can substitute another photo. Meanwhile, just be glad your realtor didn’t photograph your house when the snow turned mushy, icy and dirty.   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Don't forget that you can get answers to the most common home staging questions, plus much, much more, in my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">$5 home staging eBook</a>, <i>DIY</i> <i>Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar. </i></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>

Questions about Faucet Choices, Paint Colors, and Wicker Furniture

Q: We’re getting ready to sell our home. The faucets in both bathroom sinks match the faucets in the tub and shower stalls.They all work and are in good condition, but they are shiny chrome, and dated. Should I invest in new ones that look more in step with the times? – Sarah H.A: Spend your money s…

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