~ Proper Prim ~

The Ugly Room Reveal

2012-01-27T17:19:00.004-05:00

Are you ready folks...

The "Ugly Room" is ready for it's big reveal. If you want to catch up on the other phases of this saga, click on these links...

First Chapter

Second Chapter

This 10' x nothing room has literally exhausted me and my savings. Things that I thought would work... didn't. Things that I really wanted to work... wouldn't. I ended up having carpet installed in all three bedrooms and the hallway leading to them. The remainder of the makeover was either re-vamped or thrifted.

the vanity... before

It doesn't require too much imagination to improve on these images ~

anything would be a major improvement...

Let's start at the beginning... before

In case I forgot to tell you the plan...

this space was created for Gramma and Mya to make special memories...

whether it be rocking in the chair...

reading a story...

or wondering what adventure these two little ones are off to...

while we snuggle under the quilt...

or play make believe with the little doll house shelf...

or read Gramma's blog at the new desk made from the old vanity...

or admire all the treasures on the re-vamped cubby shelf...

or contemplate some inspirational sayings on the new chalkboard...

or watch time pass us by on the thrifted clock...

or maybe we can do some crafts...

or play with Gramma's childhood doll...

or play with blocks...

or spell her name with the letters Gail of My Re-purposed Life so kindly donated last year.

No Gail, I didn't forget about them and the colours couldn't have been more perfect...

(the bookshelf will be getting a new paint job when the weather warms up and I can use my sprayer in the garage)

So folks this is what I have procrastinated about for 6 loooooong years...

now it is time to purge this chapter and carry on to the next room...

So what do you think...

is it a fitting space for a beautiful little Princess to share some

special moments with her ~~favourite~~ Gramma?

or do you think she will be disappointed?

or be so excited, she'll want to call all her friends...

or give Gramma big kisses for at least trying hard...

Thrift Store Purchases;

new handmade quilt - $2.99

frame for chalkboard - $4.00

The Grandest Child of All plaque - $1.00

Consignment Shop Purchases;

little boy and girl pic - $26.00

dollhouse shelf - $20.00

clock - $17.00

All remaining pieces pulled from around the house...

tomorrow, I am headed to IKEA to purchase this chair, I think that will be a nice touch to finish it off.

Thanks for stopping by...

Tell me what you think... I truly appreciate your comments.

Hope you all have a great weekend...

Hugs,

Linking up to:

http://whisperwoodcottage.com/

http://itallstartedwithpaint.com

Play a Little ~ Work a Little ~ Phase 11

2012-01-15T19:20:00.000-05:00

It seems like I had a paint brush attached to my hand this whole weekend.

It all started Thursday afternoon, when I found this cute little handmade shelf at my fav consignment shop.

It really isn't that cute the way it is, but I could see beyond that. You know I am a sucker for anything wood and handmade is a bonus... score for $20.00....

the before...

I then had to shoot over to Rona for a piece of wood for another project, which just

happens to be across the street... can't go in without stopping by the oops counter... it was calling my name...

I found this pretty paint...$5.00...

I knew immediately where it was going to be used.

this is for Mya's corner...

After two days of painting the shelf , it was time to get moving onto the next project.

This one is for Gramma's corner.

remember the vanity huddled in the ugly room...

It is now this perfectly sized desk... I added the top and a piece in the middle and gave it a fresh coat of white paint, I am loving it...

Took a break from painting and hung the curtains I found on Ebay... I truly love Priscilla curtains... I have had them in every house I have ever lived. There is just something so soft and feminine about them.

The blank frame on the wall is going to be a chalkboard... I will pick up the wood for that tomorrow.

The carpet salesman came Friday to price out new carpeting for the room, the other two bedrooms and hallway. Hopefully that will be done this coming Friday. It really puts you at a standstill when there is no carpet on the floor. As you can see, I went ahead and decorated anyway. I couldn't wait until next week, I wanted to see it done now.

Well that is the end of Phase 11... stay tuned for the finale next week. Keep you toes and fingers crossed it all goes according to plan. Back to work for another rest tomorrow... so I can store up some energy for next weekend.

So what do you think?

Thanks for popping in...

Hugs, Deb

Work a little ~ Play a little...

2012-01-08T19:11:00.003-05:00

well I am... I don't make resolutions, I make excuses.

THE WORK PHASE....

I have procrastinated six L O N G years to get to this project. I don't know what took me so long to go in there and tackle this ghastly deed. Aside from the fact the room was utterly depressing and downright U G L Y. I hated to even walk in there... other than to grab a pair of socks out of the dresser and run like hell to get out before the boogey man nabbed me. My daughter wouldn't even open the door... she said the room creeped her out.

Now, let me explain. I had nothing to do with this room. It was a bonus when I bought the house. It is part of the original house before "they" renovated. Did they fear going in this room too???

Okay it's coming... this is a warning to you. If you want to run for cover, do it now. Grab your drink it's a long one.

Remember this is just Phase One... It is far from completed but a girl can tease a little along the way. At least I am pre warning you this time.

even the vanity and dresser are huddled together in fear of being alone in there...

I have big plans for that vanity, but that won't be until Phase 11... just saying.

check out the beautiful carpeting and lovely panel board...

NOT...

let's not forget that hideous stain on the cheap window trim either...

it took hours, just to fill holes and they weren't even mine.

Check out that graining in the board... deep groovey graining, people.

Do you know how hard it is to paint that crap???... with a brush no less...

yeap, just me and my Purty.

Santa did bring me a Command Max paint sprayer and I did two coats of primer with it...

no matter what I did, I couldn't get a nice even finish... it just wasn't built for a job like this.

wow, what a difference a few paint strokes make.

don't be asking about the colour either... I was determined to use up what I had in the house.

I mixed and mixed until it didn't look like a dog's breakfast and then slapped it on the wall. My best guess is, it is a true Khaki colour... it is slowly growing on me.

this weekend, I finally ripped out that lovely carpet with full intentions of laying new floor tile.

But as I said this is part of the original house... I don't think they owned a level or even understood what the word square meant. Tile with lines... not this girl. Did I mention how anal I am... about straight lines. I did the next best thing and called a carpet place and they are coming next week to re-carpet... with no lines.

NOW ONTO THE ~~FUN~~ PLAYING PART...

After painting all the trim white and waiting for it to dry, I decided to go treasure hunting in my room downstairs..

This was hiding behind the door in the ugly room... it was an old CD tower I had bought many moons ago when CD's were in fashion. Now I download right to my IPOD, so no more CD's to store.

What the heck was I going to do with it now?

I took it apart and cut the top and bottom flush with the last shelves... then re-assembled...

and used the top side pieces to make inside shelves as shown above ~

glued scrapbook paper to the back, then painted it white...

turned it sideways, hung it, then went shopping in the house...

let's steal a little bit from here, a little bit from there...

and before you knew it... it was full...

with my collection of ink wells, caligraphy pens and other treasures.

I then dug this little beauty out of the closet and hung her up...

look how lovely that frame looks against the paint.

then I pulled this $5.00 garage sale find out of the linen closet...

That has been hiding in there for the past 3 years...

used the Cricut and etching vinyl and added the saying...

"Moments Make Memories"

installed the chain,

then hung it in the freshly painted window.

This will be much nicer when I get the curtains up...

and last but not least...

a Mya fix...

~~sorry bad pic but too precious not to show~~...

can you tell what her newest expression is?... lol

finally a pic with her pearly whites...

and those blue eyes,

just melt me...

Tuesday, she finally decided to ditch her ride and started walking...

she was hell on wheels with this puppy.

Well off to relax a bit... back to work for a rest tomorrow.

So what ya been working on?...

Stay tuned... Phase 11 will begin next week...

Thanks for popping in...

Hugs,

That Was Easy...

2011-12-30T12:08:00.000-05:00

As we embark on a New Year, I thought I would share a great email I received the other day from a dear friend. She knows I am a tip fanatic. I don't know the original source of this... but who ever did this is a genius.

25 CLEVER IDEAS TO MAKE LIFE EASIER

Hull strawberries easily using a straw.

Rubbing a walnut over scratches in your furniture will disguise dings and scrapes.

Remove crayon masterpieces from your TV or computer screen with WD40
(also works on walls).

Stop cut apples browning in your child’s lunch box by securing with a rubber band.

Overhaul your linen cupboard – store bed linen sets inside one of their own
Pillowcases and there will be no more hunting through piles for a match.

\Deborah\eas to make life easier
Pump up the volume by placing your iPhone / iPod in a bowl – the concave shape
Amplifies the music.

Re-use a wet-wipes container to store plastic bags.

Add this item to your beach bag. Baby powder gets sand off your skin easily –
Who knew?.

Attach a Velcro strip to the wall to store soft toys.

Look up! Use wire to make a space to store gift wrap rolls against the ceiling,
Rather than cluttering up the floor.

Gotcha! Find tiny lost items like earrings by putting a stocking over the vacuum
hose.

Make an instant cupcake carrier by cutting crosses into a box lid.

For those who can't stand the scrunching and bunching: how to perfectly
Fold a fitted sheet.

Forever losing your bathroom essentials? Use magnetic strips to store bobby
Pins (and tweezers and clippers) behind a vanity door.

A tip for holiday packing. Store shoes inside shower caps to stop dirty soles
Rubbing on your clothes. And you can find them in just about every hotel!

A muffin pan becomes a craft caddy. Magnets hold the plastic cups down to
Make them tip-resistant.

Bread tags make the perfect-sized cord labels.

Bake cupcakes directly in ice-cream cones – so much more fun and

easier for kids to eat. Love this idea.

Microwave your own popcorn in a plain brown paper bag. Much healthier and
Cheaper than the packet stuff.

Brilliant space-saver: install a tension rod to hang your spray bottles. Genius!

This is going on my must have shopping list.

Win friends at breakfast with this heart-shaped egg tutorial.

Wouldn't this be perfect for a Valentine's breakfast.

Turn your muffin pan upside down, bake cookie-dough over the top and voila –
You have cookie bowls for fruit or ice-cream. Click here for recipe.

Freeze Aloe Vera in ice-cube trays for soothing sunburn relief.

Gutter garden: Create a window-box veggie patch using gutters.

Perfect for a herb garden.

Use egg cartons to separate and store your Christmas decorations.

Hope you found a few ideas that will make your life a little easier too.

Back to the tedious job of painting a spare bedroom... hmmm, anyone got a few tips on making that job easier?

Hugs,

Tis the Season...

2011-12-22T14:06:00.010-05:00

Are you ready?

this is exactly how I was feeling...

then throw in a little of this...

and none of this...

I just couldn't get into it.

I finally decided to get a grip and take Rudolph's reins into my own hands and smarten up... this is my favourite time of year. What am I thinking... I'm letting it slowly slip away.

I finally figured out what I really needed was to embrace the season, not the stress. It was time to stop and smell the poinsettia's ... ~~not so pretty~~...

I put ~~half of~~ my tree up ~~it keeps shrinking every year~~. I then embellished my house with half of the decorations too. I am really liking the less is more theory the older I am getting. Less to take down too.

Now, time for the shopping... I let my fingers do the walking and did it all on line... what a fabulous feature that is. You can bargain shop and never leave your chair.

yes, it is a wonderful time of year, afterall...

and I now have time to watch all my favourite black and white Christmas movies and relish every minute of them as I enjoy the scrumptous sweets I "had" hiding in the freezer for Christmas Eve guests. Hmmmm... can you buy sweets on line?

I'm so ready now... bring it on... I am so excited... shhh, I know one present under the tree from the big guy... it involves spray painting... and I have just the room to try it on.

I am off for 11 straight days and I can't wait... expect to see a few changes around my house...

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for visiting and making this such a memorable year... and to

wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a safe and blessed New Year...

Hugs, Deb

~~now where did I buy those coconut squares????~~

Our sweet little angel is growing up...

2011-12-06T12:15:00.003-05:00

Howdy folks... sorry I have been MIA lately, not much to post about these days.

It has been awhile since I have updated you on our little monkey... so here's a glimpse of our cute Miss Mya. She is such a sweet, happy little ~~baby~~ girl... but growing up way too fast.

Mya had her first cold last month. She was such a trooper and has nicely recovered now and back to her sweet little self. She didn't quite know what hit her as she had never been sick up to then.

She has caught up to where she should be in size and is far too smart for her own good...lol. She adores Dora and loves to watch her as she rocks away in her chair. She is getting stingy with the smiles these days or you could have seen all of her 6 teeth. She hasn't decided to walk just yet, but it will be coming shortly.

where did the baby go?

look Gramma, no feet...

watching Dora... always has that tongue out... lol

just chillin in my new chair Gramma found me...

still have those gorgeous baby blues...

tormenting Tigger... but very gently

so serious...

okay enough with the pictures...

can't you see I'm busy...

Poppi and I took her this Dora backpack on Saturday and she hasn't stopped playing with it since. Doesn't take much to please them at this age.

I finally finished painting all the baseboards and doors in the kitchen... nope still haven't got to those cupboards yet. However I did order the Command Max sprayer and I have 10 days off at Christmas, so I have a sneaky feeling something in my house is getting painted but I just haven't decided what's up next... I will keep you posted.

I am still trying to find some Christmas spirit, but it just isn't happening... I don't know if it has been the mild weather we have been experiencing, or what it is. I haven't finished my shopping... no tree up yet... although I did manage to get few things out over the weekend. I was hoping that would get me into gear, but it still wasn't working. I am trying not to stress myself out about it, but this is ridiculous. Does anyone have any dynamite I might borrow?.

Am I the onlyone feeling like this, this year?

This is my favourite time of year and I'm afraid it is going to be over before I even get started.

Got any good tricks up your sleeve? How do you get in the mood?

Hope you are all having a great week.

Thanks for popping in...

Hugs, Deb

My new "Proper"ly "Prim"med Bathroom... Phase 11

2011-11-06T20:51:00.009-05:00

Well it finally happened I have the perfectly prim bathroom that I have been dreaming about for 6 years. (You can read about Phase 1 here.)

My head was swimming...Do I paint the walls, leave the trim... paint the trim and leave the walls.? But they are white... I don't like white. So why was I having such a hard time making up my mind? I can't believe it took me so long to do this.

this is the entrance to the bathroom...

can you see all that wood...

everywhere.

two closet doors, all the trim and the inside of the entrance door... it all had to go and I had to paint it... have I mentioned how much I dislike painting big projects...

so first I tackled the stocking stretchers, painted, sanded and stained for that perfect prim look...

and it was quick...

next I glazed the cabinet I painted last week... another quick project...

then it was time to get painting all those doors, baseboards and window trim... not so quick...

I ordered these handles for the vanity and the closet doors...

next on the list was a new curtain...

but I needed a new curtain rod...

this makeover was all about using up what I already had...

I made the shelf from one I had hanging around...drilled holes in the brackets with my hole saw...

used a 1-5/8" wooden dowel for the rod... slid it through the holes...

hung the shelf about 8" higher than the window top... added some of my favourite treasures...

it was the perfect piece to tie everything together... and it has that perfect prim look...

Vintage Junky showed this pic on her blog last week and I absolutely fell in love with it.

I just had to have it...

It will replace the cross stitch above the toilet.

It will add some interesting depth to that wall and it has the perfect pop of red.

so let's have one last look at the before...

and now, my Proper Prim bathroom makeover...

I love it... it now looks like it belongs to the rest of the house... okay maybe not the kitchen... that's next on my list... did I mention that I don't like painting big projects.

Now do you see why I am procrastinating starting that job... I will find a million other things to do just to avoid doing what I should be doing... so I figure the entire house will get redone before I work my way to that room.

Am I the only one that does this?

Cost Breakdown;

Curtain - $19.99 (Swags Galore)

Wooden Dowel - $2.48 (Rona)

Little Red Riding Hood Pic - $10.50 (Etsy)

ALL paint left over from other projects... $0.00 (private stash)

Trim for cabinet - $7.77 (Home Depot)

New hardware - .83/ea x 4= $3.32 (ebay)

Total makeover cost - $ 44.06

Thanks for popping in... would love to hear what you think.

Hugs,

http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/2011/11/sns-link-party-106-vintage-suitcases.html

Bathroom Makeover...

2011-10-30T17:07:00.004-04:00

Well, l I have been at it again... slowly but surely I am beginning to tackle the bigger jobs that have been bugging me for the past few years. I read a blog the other day that said if you want to do something in your house, then do it. Stop thinking resale and you will be much happier with your home. That was like music to my ears... I am always second guessing myself... I am always thinking resale. I end up talking myself out of doing things for that very reason.

I am tired of playing it safe... so this weekend I just ran with it.

This cabinet was number one on my list.

and this 80's orange was second on my list.

I started by adding some trim that I just happened to have in my stash...

have I told you how much I love my mitre saw.

I painted the cabinet (still needs to be glazed)... next on the list was that metal strip. I had already spray painted it from brass to ORB awhile back. I took several Rub N Buff finishes and added some Varsol to them and sponged it on. Still wasn't liking it so I took plain Varsol and started dabbing it off... I let it pool a bit, turned on the hairdryer and moved the Varsol around, it did the trick. It now looks like hammered copper.

no more orange wood... amazing what a little black paint will do...

loving the new updated look.

Next, I pulled out this cross stitch that has been hanging around way too long ... made a mat with corrugated cardboard and put it in an old frame...

my next dilemma, where do I hang it?

this is when I sit and actually think... I needed a lightbulb moment, quickly... I wanted something different... something outside the box.

now add this to the mix...

and these gems filled with my small treasures and other essentials...

couldn't forget my best friend there on the end... epsom salts... look how pretty she looks

went back to the archives and dug out this old shelf, dismantled it, added new supports that were also hiding in the just in case pile, gave it a fresh coat of paint and attached it to...

are you still with me?

this old gifted shutter... it has literally been hanging around for several years, just waiting for it's debut.

now it might not be everyones style, but I love it, I wanted different...

and there you have it... my mini makeover... and it only cost me 7.77 for the thin piece of trim. That is my idea of decor on a dime.

I ordered a new curtain for the window. That should tie things together nicely. Next I will tackle the baseboards and closet doors... I hid those in the pics... remember that orange, you guessed... but not for long.

I am slowly working my way to the kitchen cupboards. Once I start there will be no turning back so I figured I would try something small first. Not so bad and I did this with a brush.

If it makes as much improvement as this little makeover, I may get to it sooner than later.

So, do you overthink things too?

Are you always thinking resale?

Well no more thinking for this girl... my new motto is "just do it".

So what ya all think?

Like, Love it or Ditch it?

History repeats itself... Before & After

2011-10-16T13:58:00.019-04:00

source

I have had my eye on this sign for awhile now. Lately it seems I have been gravitating to the Ballard Design creations. There isn't too much I don't like from their vintage collection. They make my heart sing. Their pieces speak to me... I love the challenge of stepping out of my comfort zone.

I loved the shape of this sign, rather than a straight board. It promptly went in my inspiration file for future consideration. The first thing I do when I am bored is pull up the file and see if something bites and hope it will motivate me to get back down to the workshop.

Yesterday, was one of those days. Housework was all done, outside work was on hold due to rain... hence a guilt free play day.

A friend gave me this board a year or so ago and there it sat in my garage along with all the other piles in waiting. I didn't quite know what to do with it... I knew that heart absolutely had to go and that was the last I thought about it...

until I needed a large board for my newest creation...

I cut it on each side of the heart, then screwed the two pieces together and drew the design...

using my miter and jig saw (first time using that, another one mastered) it was starting to take shape...

I attached the two pieces using my Kreg Jig, Gorilla glue and a couple brackets for reinforcement...

I pulled a frame back out of my trunk that was destined for the Sally Ann...

cut it and used it for the top border...

glued and air nailed it in place.

Now onto the fun part...

this was my inspiration for the wording... if pictures could only talk,

I'd have a thousand questions for you.

This is my Great Great Grandfather, Andrew McNutt at his store. Circa 1880 - 1910. He was a very successful business man in his day...

he went on to own the whole block, which was named after him.

My niece put me on to a long lost relative that provided me with this information along with numerous photos of the family. Thanks so much Tim, I can't thank you enough.

Who would have thought that making a piece of history would open so many doors.

Before I made this I knew very little of my history.

I used the Cricut to cut the letters (thanks Gail, I used contact paper to save on vinyl, worked great)... applied them to the board which I had previously painted black... painted the second colour over the letters... ~~not so~~ patiently waited for the paint to dry and peeled them off... (wait for the paint to dry, not that I messed up a few because "Impatient" is my middle name)

I gave it a good sanding with 150 grit...

then applied ebony stain and a coat of Light Pine Briwax...

It now proudly hangs in my kitchen...

Now I have my own little piece of history to enjoy.

Looks like a piece that has been hanging around for 100+ years...

don't you think?

The best part is that it didn't cost me a penny... I had all the materials left over from other projects, even the paint was given to me.

Now you wanna know what Ballard Design charged?

So what do you think?

I'm off to see what new piece I can ~~steal~~ borrow from them next...

Hugs,

I also found a great tutorial while ~~snooping~~ researching, check it out...
http://www.gwennypenny.com/2011/05/ballard-wall-plaque-knock-off-tutorial.html

Linking to:
http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/2011/10/sns-103-fall-mantels.html

The low down on chalk paint...

2011-10-06T11:12:00.001-04:00

Well I managed to finally shut one voice up in my head... I now know what kind of paint I am using if I do end up painting my cupboards ~~and anything else that isn't nailed down.~~

While doing some research, I came across a wonderful blog that has a recipe to make your own "chalk paint". ~~Don't worry I will share the link, hold tight.~~ As you well know that stuff is like liquid gold. I can't tell you how elated I was to find out I can make my own and now so can you.

I really wanted to try this stuff, no sanding, no priming... how much better can it get. Unfortunately the cheap side of my brain will not allow me to spend that kind of money on paint. I don't care what it does. Have you priced that stuff in Canada?

Now for the other inquiring minds out there... here's the goods on the notorious "chalk paint". This is just one ingredient that Sherry shares... there are two more. I think this is the one I am going to choose.

What is Calcium Carbonate?
Calcium carbonate, or CaCO3, comprises more than 4% of the earth’s crust and is found throughout the world. Its most common natural forms are chalk, limestone, and marble, produced by the sedimentation of the shells of small fossilized snails, shellfish, and coral over millions of years. Although all three forms are identical in chemical terms, they differ in many other respects, including purity, whiteness, thickness and homogeneity. Calcium carbonate is one of the most useful and versatile materials known to man.

Many of us encounter calcium carbonate for the first time in the school classroom, where we use blackboard chalk.

Paper, Plastics, Paints, and Coatings: Calcium carbonate is the most widely used mineral in the paper, plastics, paints and coatings industries both as a filler – and due to its special white color - as a coating pigment. In the paper industry it is valued worldwide for its high brightness and light scattering characteristics, and is used as an inexpensive filler to make bright opaque paper. Filler is used at the wet-end of paper making machines, and calcium carbonate filler allows for the paper to be bright and smooth. As an extender, calcium carbonate can represent as much as 30% by weight in paints. Calcium carbonate also is used widely as a filler in adhesives, and sealants.

Now, run on over to this very kind lady that shared her recipe and her knowledge with us and be sure to thank her. I am sure she is no stranger to many of you. Her blog is to die for. This woman has some serious talent happening. Believe me you won't be disappointed.

Good luck and please if you try or have tried this would you be so kind to share your findings with the rest of us.

Hugs,

I have people talking in my head...

2011-10-04T15:58:00.003-04:00

It has been awhile since I have had the chance to get back here and update this blog. Thanks for hangin in there.

My head seems to be twirling around and around lately. Do you have so many projects in your head you can't stop long enough to pin just one of them down? I exhaust myself thinking about it, then I am too tired to tackle it.

I have been desperately wanting to update my house a bit lately. I "thought" I would start with painting my kitchen cupboards a light colour as it faces north and my cupboards are a dark oak. Now they are nothing to write home about, anything special or out of the ordinary. So why is it anyone I tell of my plans thinks I have fallen off the pumpkin truck and hit my head? You see they are perfectly fine, without a blemish and they were custom made by the previous owners. I don't have any attachment to them, personally I really don't even like them. So why, oh why am I having such a problem with this.

I have this beautiful plan in my head and I just can't seem to get my brain to send that message down to my hands. I have even gone so far as to buy a paint sprayer, albeit I have no clue how to use one, but I am certainly willing to try.

I have been on U-Tube and all over the web seeking out instructions... seeking out my next big purchase, which happens to be a farmhouse sink, new countertops, new flooring... oh the prices are killing me. I need to win the lottery to fit all my ideas into my budget.

So I ask you how do I shut those voices off in my head. How do I overcome my fear of doing all that work and thinking to myself, what the hell were you thinking?

(hopefully I will be posting this soon as the before pic)

Stay tuned,

I have to turn the volume down... those voices are screaming again.

Do you have those voices lurking around in your space too?

How do you get the little buggers to shut up?

I really need your help on this one my friends... I think I am slowly going insane...lol

Hugs,

Happy Birthday Lil' Miss Mya

2011-08-22T14:39:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday my sweet angel...

I can't tell you how much joy this little one has brought to my life...

she likes it... Mya, likes it... it might be awhile before her feet hit the pedals though...

okay if you want me to be a Princess hurry up... it isn't going to last long

loving her Dora cake...

a little too much...

Look Gramma, I ate the whole thing...

okay, time for presents...

Poppi bought these little moccasins for her... aren't they the cutest?

WOW what a day... who knew birthdays were so much fun...

I think I could do this every week...

Thanks again to all her supporters and fans along the way... we couldn't have done it without all your prayers, God is listening... she is doing great... catching up quickly now... two bottom teeth ... crawls around like a bullet... starting to pull herself up on anything within reach... weighing in at 17.5 lbs... and an absolutely happy, healthly and beautiful little angel.

Have a great day everyone... thanks for stopping by.

Hugs, Deb

It can't be, already...

2011-08-21T08:16:00.023-04:00

Can you believe a year has passed since Miss Mya was born...

Tomorrow (August 23rd) the little munchkin is going to be a year old.

She is quite the dynamo baby... moving and shaking all over the house... she doesn't stay still.

I couldn't resist this little gem, how perfect for her. If I start her off early appreciating vintage pieces maybe I will have a memory hunter buddy later... just like Driving Miss Daisy...lol.

what a great repro...

I gave it the ole' Gramma touch with the help of the Cricut Machine...

a little reminder everytime she opens the lid...

Deck Appeal Phase 11

2011-08-21T00:01:00.050-04:00

Did you know ???...

Lesson #1

I am pretty sure that you already knew that, didn't you?...

Lesson #2

so I to tell myself this...

seems I wasn't the only one listening...

as it flew right into the pond...

trying to remember lesson #1 as I calmly try to figure out how I am going to grab it without falling in...

(BBQ tongs worked wonders)

Now, how relaxing is this? NOT!!

after a lot of sanding and a whole lot of staining and painting...

things were starting to take shape...

so I could do a lot of this...

and I would finally have a nice place to relax to learn Lesson #1 & #2...

and maybe contemplate a little of this...

and maybe a little of bit of that... but not today

a little reminder as I look out my kitchen window...

I wouldn't mind if I have me some of this... but not today

no sirree not today,

I am going to enjoy a ~~few~~ little of ~~these~~ this and try not to stress too much as to

when I am going to find the time to finish it up...

it might happen when I pick up another can of stain

after my body recovers...

yes, you guessed it folks that isn't going to be today...

why do things today that you can put off until tomorrow... seems I live by that motto a wee bit too much lately...

hence Lesson #1 & 2

Hope you are all taking a little time for yourself to relax... have a great day.

Hugs, Deb

Deck Appeal Phase 1

2011-08-20T14:43:00.002-04:00

Do you have as hard of time as me to sit down and relax... yes I mean just putting your feet up and doing NOTHING.

These past couple of weekends I have been trying to create something just for that very reason.

Mr. D. found these chairs on sale and they were just the answer... but I had to put them together. Yikes, my brain and directions are not a good combination.

It all started out with these...

which soon turned into these...

and then into these...

and in less than two hours I ended up with these...

then I needed one of these...

for little bit of this...

So far there hasn't been too much time for relaxing... what am I doing wrong?

stay tuned...

Hellooooooooooooooooo Lucille...

2011-08-06T10:55:00.002-04:00

It finally happened, we hooked up with Lucille. Sadly to say Lucille will be closing her shop in her house and moving her goods to the Westmoreland Market... the outside will still be open for business but Lucille wants her house back.

I am so happy that we got one last chance to tour her awesome shop... she has something for everyone there and if you think her store is great you should see what is inside her house... I could just pack my bags and move right in and feel right at home.

this is just one room at Lucille's

it isn't hard to find something you love in here...

love this crock...

Granny J check out all this enamel ware...

I wish I had room for this little cabinet... $35.00

and you can even shop in the bathroom...

love those rug beaters...

it was hard not to bring this cradle home...

Rose check out this basket...

a little surprise tucked away...

I was a good girl this year and kept my purchases short and sweet... the works $20.00

the cow and pig are creamers and another pie bird to add to my collection... I couldn't resist those little pitchers... I can see another shelf in my near future.

another shoe to my fetish... I found this at another shop along the way... $5.00

we ended up here after a long day of shopping... love that sign...
do you think he would miss it

the food was amazing...

if you are in this area I highly recommend this restaurant...

7672 State Route 20, Waterville, NY

315-841-3077

I would suggest making reservations first... it's one busy place and believe me I know why

I fell in love with these window baskets on all the windows...

picture perfect...

Don and Lucille...

you meet some of the nicest people Memory Hunting.

We had such a great time with them...

our new forever friends.

Thanks guys for a great day.

one more day of paradise and it is back to reality... hope you are all having a wonderful weekend

Thanks for stopping by...

Hugs,

On the road again...

2011-08-04T20:55:00.003-04:00

Well it's that time of year again when we pack up the motor home and just head out as nomads to regroup for a couple of weeks... do a little sight seeing and a lot of memory hunting.

We headed out last Thursday to our first destination past the 1000 Island area to visit some friends... after 4 days we started to head back towards home... studying the map carefully I realized we were heading in the direction we were last year... that gorgeous 6 acre paradise that spoiled us so badly that we now compare every campground to it. Not only do we love the park and the sweet owners, but the memory hunting here is like no other...

this was our first stop...

you may remember Lucille from last year when Rose and I bought out her out of house and home...

but she wasn't there today... Lucille, "I'M BACK" where are you????

so we shopped the yard...

loving that sign... I could find a spot in my kitchen for that I am sure...

and look at this cool little birdhouse...

I am sure I could find a spot for this beauty too...

I still have the scars on my knees from one of these classics...

and check this cutie out we found at another shop...

I have never come across one of these before... $35.00

a perfect mate for my mower

I am assuming it is an edger... but it would just take up room in my garage right beside the mower that I just had to have.

now this little guy did manage to find his way to my trunk... can you figure out what it is...

check out those patent dates... July 28,1891 - April 22, 1902 & Sept 11, 1904

reads; NO 2 - MFG'D BY WHITE MOP WRINGER CO., FULTONVILLE, NY

WARRENTED THIS SIZE FOR FAMILY USE ONLY

have you figured it out yet?

If you guessed a wooden wringer that sits on a pail, you guessed right...

now I have to find just the right pail to put this on... for $13.00 how could I resist.

this stayed behind but it was tempting... a leather strap vise... $12.00

and check out the size of this pulley... I couldn't lift it if I did want it... but it stayed behind too.

Tomorrow we are off to see Lucille again and hopefully do some real hunting...

Lucille can you hear me ???

Stay tuned...

Baby it's hot outside...

2011-07-21T13:03:00.001-04:00

Be safe everyone... this is a nasty one.

We hit 48C (118.4F) with the humidex.

For the love of friends...

2011-07-18T12:19:00.087-04:00

Wow what a bittersweet month this has been.

About a month ago my dear friends that have a Sub-Shop were robbed mid-afternoon. The coward not only robbed them of them of their hard earned money but also of their lives as they knew it. You can read the story about it here and here.

Upon hearing the sad news, Kimberly (L) stepped up to the plate and rallied all of Murph's customers and friends together to start a fundraiser for him to show how much they cared.

Local businesses and the community donated everything to make this event happen this past weekend. Local bands,comedians, photographers and even the local politicians came out to offer their support. Mother Nature also co-operated with sunshine for the event.

It was so touching to see the outpouring of love for my dear friends...

It was quite overwhelming for them.

these are just some of the angels that donated their day to help out Murph...

this young sweetheart had a voice like an angel...

she works at the Bagel shop across the street...

some of the awesome entertainment that was provided for our enjoyment...

I made a PB KO "Alphabet" board to raffle...

it was a big hit, as you can see one of the volunteers putting his ticket in the bucket...

close up of the board...

this is Murph's wife and me (r) we have been the best of friends for over 40 years...

I was so happy to share their special day with them.

these cards are full size bristol board that have been filled on both sides over the past month...

a friend had them laminated and they are now displayed on the sub-shop wall.

The event was such a huge success it made the local papers and the news media.

If Murph and Demetrea didn't know they were loved before there was no doubt in anyone's mind after Saturday.

The Many Faces of Mya

2011-06-16T11:28:00.008-04:00

As you can see it has been awhile since my last post... life is just getting in the way. Huge tree limbs down after that last nasty storm to clean up... grass to cut, constantly... weeds to pull, constantly... fighting gardens to stay managable, constantly... friends to help in time of need, constantly... working full time, constantly... It has been a crazy month... I am so ready for a holiday.

There was no time left for any creative fun stuff so I guess you will just have to ogle over our little Miss Mya... I don't hear any complaints on your end... so let's get on with the recent faces of our little angel...

how do these people expect me to get around...

if they stick me in this thing...

I was only trying to help...

I am tired of sitting... my butt is sore... I have places to go and things to see...

it is so frustrating...

what do you mean you're buying me a bigger play-pen???

I don't want it...

TAKE IT BACK!!!...

I can get new toys too...

okay, now I am getting excited...

can I get what "I" want...

really?!!!!

did I hear that right...

okay then, let's get going...

Be back soon...

Miss Mya is 16.5 lbs now! She is on the charts for her growth now! Doc said she is STRONG and healthy and catching up fast! :)

Look what I got... my first time in the pool.

all that shopping and fresh air was just too much for me to handle...

(and yes Mommy put lots of sunscreen on me, no need to worry)

Thinking outside the box...

2011-05-15T13:10:00.001-04:00

I thought I would share another obsession of mine... I simply cannot resist a homemade wooden box. These were all thrifted through the years. Enjoy....

Sgt. Allen must have sent something pretty special home in this box... It still has the stamp on it... I can't make out the year but it is an oldie.

this is an unique one... it opens forward and has compartments in it...

I never figured out what it might be used for...

these doors slide open... great for hiding more treasures...

and of course the handmade telephone shipping box... my favourite.

and to finish off for all you Mya fans...

her cheeky face...

her monkey face...

poor Sophie is getting an attitude adjustment....

her serious thinking about it look... a true family trait...

and just pure sweetness...

Have a great day...

Hugs, Deb

THINGS YOUR BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU

2011-05-12T08:39:00.000-04:00

Every now and then I get an interesting email like this one that just needs to be passed on. As the summer is approaching I think it is imperative that everyone read this.

THINGS YOUR BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU
1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.

2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste... and taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.

4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it..

5. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house.. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.

6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy.

7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom - and your jewellery. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.

8. It's raining, you're fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door - understandable. But understand this: I don't take a day off because of bad weather.

9. I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don't take me up on it.)

10. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.

11. Here's a helpful hint: I almost never go into kids' rooms.

12. You're right: I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it's not bolted down, I'll take it with me.

13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television.

MORE THINGS A BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU:
1. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.

2. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbours.

3. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbour hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn't hear it again, he'll just go back to what he was doing. It's human nature.

4. I'm not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?

5. I love looking in your windows. I'm looking for signs that you're home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like. I'll drive or walk through your neighbourhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets.

6. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It's easier than you think to look up your address.

7. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it's an invitation.

8. If you don't answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.

Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina , Oregon , California , and Kentucky ; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.com and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.

Protection for you and your home:
If you don't have a gun, here's a more humane way to wreck someone's evil plans for you.
WASP SPRAY

A friend who is a receptionist in a church in a high risk area was concerned about someone coming into the office on Monday to rob them when they were counting the collection. She asked the local police department about using pepper spray and they recommended to her that she get a can of wasp spray instead.

The wasp spray, they told her, can shoot up to twenty feet away and is a lot more accurate, while with the pepper spray, they have to get too close to you and could overpower you. The wasp spray temporarily blinds an attacker until they get to the hospital for an antidote. She keeps a can on her desk in the office and it doesn't attract attention from people like a can of pepper spray would. She also keeps one near by at home for home protection.. Thought this was interesting and might be of use.

FROM ANOTHER SOURCE:
On the heels of a break-in and beating that left an elderly woman in Toledo dead, self-defence experts have a tip that could save your life.

Val Glinka teaches self-defence to students at Sylvania Southview High School . For decades, he's suggested putting a can of wasp and hornet spray near your door or bed.
Glena says, "This is better than anything I can teach them."
Glinka considers it inexpensive, easy to find, and more effective than mace or pepper spray. The cans typically shoot 20 to 30 feet; so if someone tries to break into your home, Glinka says, "spray the culprit in the eyes". It's a tip he's given to students for decades. It's also one he wants everyone to hear. If you're looking for protection, Glinka says look to the spray.

"That's going to give you a chance to call the police; maybe get out." Maybe even save a life.

Put your car keys beside your bed at night.
Tell your spouse, your children, your neighbours, your parents, your Dr.'s office, the check-out girl at the market, everyone you run across. Put your car keys beside your bed at night.

If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies. This tip came from a neighbourhood watch coordinator. Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Test it. It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key fob chain. It works if you park in your driveway or garage. If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break into your house, odds are the burglar/rapist won't stick around. After a few seconds all the neighbours will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that. And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there. This is something that should really be shared with everyone. Maybe it could save a life or a sexual abuse crime.

P.S.
Would also be useful for any emergency, such as a heart attack, where you can't reach a phone. Suggest to your parents that they carry their car keys with them in case they fall outside and no one can hear them. They can activate the car alarm and then they'll know there's a problem.

Please pass this on even IF you've read it before. It's a reminder.

Finally Done...

2011-04-30T18:13:00.000-04:00

I swear I don't work this hard at work and they pay me. Lately it seems I am on a mission to get things done around my house that I have been procrastinating about for years. Geeze you would almost think Donna was having a Get R Done party. It is nice to finally have a few of these projects wiped off the list just in time to start going outside and working out there. It just never ends.

this is how it looked this morning...

and now it is just a memory... it makes the room look so much taller... I am not a fan of white paint but for now I am happy with the new look... maybe this winter I will finally get it painted.

It turned out to be a pretty decent day... we made it to 62F with sunshine. It was a perfect day to get out there and work around the yard a bit. Mother Nature sure knows how to prune, but you would think she could at least clean up her mess... lol

Then I finally got the Christmas decor down, honestly. Heck, when it is still snowing in April who really cares, right? I figured we could have Christmas in July this year.

When I removed the garland from the side door I noticed a few robin eggs had fallen to the ground. Can you believe that is where Mommy decided to discretely hide her nest, I felt so bad. I tried to apologize to her but she would have nothing to do with that. She just kept squawking at me and then finally flew away. That sure wasn't how I wanted to end my day.

How did you spend your day?

A little updating... and stripping

2011-04-30T07:51:00.000-04:00

You may remember this mirror from a few weeks back. I am not liking that ceiling showing, so I thought maybe I could just divert your attention from it.

Tammy hasn't picked up her cutting machine yet, so I went ahead and ordered some vinyl off of Ebay. Did you know that they have a vinyl that looks like etching? I love etching but never had the desire to tackle that messy process.

This vinyl honestly looks like the real deal. I love it.
(I can't get a decent picture of this mirror, sorry).

now at least you are not just looking at ceiling.

What do you think?

Ah Ah got your attention, didn' I?!... no I haven't taken up a new profession...

that border is finally coming down... another inherited piece of this house.

I got this corner done yesterday...

but I have the rest to finish today if my hand and arm hold out...

I will be so glad to see it GONE...

just thought I would share a pic with you... this is my daughter's car... we had 70 mile winds on Thursday all day, it was horrible... I feel so bad for the people South of us... such devastation. I am still in shock that all my trees are still standing.

But unfortunately this one didn't stay put on Lisa's street. She is so upset, but thankful she and Mya weren't in it at the time.

Looks like this little munchkin is happy to be getting new wheels...

isn't she getting big?

Well I am off to strip...

Hope you have a great weekend... they are promising nice weather today and NO RAIN... it is 30F right now do you think the weather guesser is right?... I will keep you posted.

Hugs,

Another fear tackled...

2011-04-29T12:21:00.002-04:00

Have you ever made do with something because fear stands in your way?

I have had this ceiling fan in my kitchen since I bought the house 6 years ago. It wasn't something I would have chose to look at daily. Replacing it was just an expense that I couldn't justify at the time... until last week when I turned it off and the chain broke off inside. I can't say I wasn't a little upset at that moment. Not because I would have to replace this dated piece but who was going to install another one. I hate to ask for help.

I have always loved the school house light but have you priced those things lately? I thought I would check out Home Depot. I walked into the light department and there it was, exactly the size and style I was looking for and the price was right... $50.00, I can handle that. Oh wait it goes on sale in two days for $40.00... bonus. The perfect size ceiling medallion was on for half price at $6.00, this is looking like my lucky day.

I spray painted the white medallion oil rubbed bronze and used Rub-n-Buff to highlight the design.

Okay fear you are about to get a kick in the butt... I am going to tackle this install myself. I did my research first... not so bad.

I turned off the breaker, then I unscrewed a few screws and removed the ceiling fan, easy peasy.

I connected the wires and turned the breaker back on... IT WORKED... I was doing the happy dance right there. I ran down and turned the breaker back off and finished the install.

I use the daylight bulbs for lights... it gives you such a clean white light... no yellow.

there you have it... a new light.. all that stressing for nothing

I am in love with my new light and I am so proud that I tackled another one of my fears.

What do you think? Would you tackle this by yourself?

Hope you are all having a great day.

Hugs,

Inspiration Galore

2011-04-16T08:26:00.004-04:00

I came across a fabulous blog last week that I just had to share. Beckie at Knock off Decor features all the knock-off projects under one umbrella... she nicely has them arranged by each category and links them to their source. A surfer's dream.

I am so excited to see my PB typewriter board is featured today. Please pop over and give Beckie a little luv she puts a lot of time into these posts. I promise you won't be dissappointed.

Thank you so much Beckie. Keep up the great work.

I am off to the workshop... what better place to hide out to avoid this dismal rainy day.

Hope you are having a great weekend.

Hugs, Deb

PB KO - Tutorial

2011-04-09T14:44:00.021-04:00

My daughter's girlfriend was kind enough to lend me her Cricut machine for a bit. I was so frustrated using it as it is so limited unless you want to pay a fortune for extra cartridges. I went on a search and found a SCAL program that enables you to do what YOU want, so I purchased it. As soon as I downloaded it, I knew what my first project was going to be. I have wanted this board since I saw it floating around blogland for the past year.

PB picture source

Rachel from Holy Craft did an amazing tutorial on her version of the board.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I added a simple tutorial for you with a little more detail on cutting the grooves if you are interested in making one for yourself.

Cut your board to the desired size...

(I used a 1/2" piece of plywood cut to a 25" x 25" square with a 5" square)

measure and mark your squares evenly on the board

Note: you will need 6 down and 6 across for the alphabet board
(scroll to the bottom of post for the newest version)

to make the groves on your board...

set your blade on your table saw to a 1/4" cut...

measure to be sure your fence is square... you will need to be exact on these cuts

measure the width of your board squares

now measure from the fence ~~flat edge~~ to the middle of the blade

TIP: don't go too deep or it will be difficult to work the stain in later

cut your grooves...

keep rotating your board until all outside grooves are completed

next measure in for the next row, again measure from fence to middle of blade and rotate board again to complete the inside cuts

As you can see I have an additional ~~oops~~ line...

I used the framing square to measure and didn't compensate for the lip,

I just did another pass using the correct measurement.

I am liking the extra detail,

sometimes your mistakes turn into your best project...

sand your board smooth...

I used a water based stain... this stuff worked amazingly well on raw pine...

use a stiff brush (stencil brush) to work the stain into the grooves... ~~sorry for the terrible pic~~

if you are lucky enough to have a cutting machine

cut your letters out using a typewriter font

(I used a 3.5" size font)...

you can also print and cut out the letters and use Modge Podge to apply them..

I made a template for centering, this saved a great deal of time

TIP: instead of Modge Podge use diluted Elmer's glue

apply your letter to the board

make a frame for your board

I ripped a 1" x 4" to 1.5" wide...

this was my first attempt at cutting mitred corners...

I got them perfect, I actually shocked myself... I always thought they were so hard. Not true, measure twice, cut once.

I used the air nailer to attach the frame...

it reads

"MYA PATRICIA OUR GIFT FROM GOD"

For the newbees this little honey is Mya Patricia, my first and probably only grandchild. Mya truly is a gift from God... she had a pretty rough start but was a fighter all the way. She has brought so much joy to us all.

There you have it folks, my version of the PB Typewriter board.

This could be personalized for a new baby... with weight and birthdate... the possiblities are endless.

So what do you think?

Would PB approve?

Plywood Board - $0.00

Stain - Walmart - $1.00

2 pcs of 1" x 4" - 2.00

all other stuff I had in my stock...

TOTAL COST - $3.00

My newest board...

My newest board using the exact instructions above... this one got a paint and glaze treatment rather than the stain.

I made this for a fundraiser for a friend... it was a hard one to give away.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. I would be more than happy to help you out.

HUGS,

Our Little Ham

2011-04-06T12:27:00.002-04:00

I haven't had too much to post about lately so I thought I would give you all a Mya fix... I took these last Friday. She is such a little ham now... loves her jolly jumper and her Poppi... he can get her to giggle just talking to her. Must be that American accent.

She is weighing in at 14.5 lbs now... she is packing them on now with no problem.

She is such a delightful baby, just loves to giggle.

Hope she brightens your day as much as she brightens mine.

Hope you are all having a great week.

Hugs, Deb

Another workshop project...

2011-03-21T09:38:00.000-04:00

I went window shopping Thursday in the tool section and I don't know how it happened but a 18 gauge trim nailer gun and compressor followed me home... I just couldn't help myself. I am obsessed with tools lately. I just can't seem to get enough.

To think a couple of years ago I was afraid to use a drill... now there is nothing stopping me. After mastering the table saw it seems everything else is just a piece of cake. The more tools I try the more I want. The hardest thing I am experiencing is what to make with them.

Right now I am just tweaking a few areas in my house and building things as I go.

I couldn't wait to try the little duo out... they are going to make my life so much easier. Putting things together

is now a breeze.

This little ledge took about an hour beginning to end

I needed something on that wall that could hold some weight...

~~note to self, cover those screw holes~~

I made the game boards a few years back and they never really found a home...

I also dug out this old telephone shipping box I have had on the top of my fridge...

it fits in perfectly with the telephone display.

this was the wall last week...

the wall this week... and who knows what it will look like next week...lol

What do you think?

Cost:

leftover wood - $0.00

leftover stain - $0.00

Total project cost - $0.00

This ain't no PB knock-off...

2011-03-14T11:55:00.026-04:00

Where did my weekend go??? Monday already? and an hour short of sleep time... no fair.

It all started Friday by taking down a mirror to replace it with another one. The extremely heavy mirror didn't work as I had hoped... the wire broke and down it came.

After escaping the 7 year curse I decided I'd better change course and moved the mirror on the fireplace mantel and it didn't require another hole in the wall... sweet! Did I mention my house was in TOTAL disarray at this point. And I still had a blank spot that needed filling.

Down to the workshop I went and was totally ~~focused~~ committed to making a new prim piece to fill that GIANT space.

Half way through my original plan, I got one of those brain zingers and remembered this telephone face and innards that a friend gave me 12 years ago.

Now, can you explain to me why at that very minute I thought of this when I was building a cupboard, I haven't laid eyes on it in 5 years.

I forget sometimes that I have saws and can make great things happen now.

so I made it a new box

and that's when it all started...

what was I going to do with it... it is too small to make an impact and as usual I never have a plan...

it started talking to me and I didn't even lift the receiver... lol

off to the wood pile... I used my jig to make the board larger...

knocked the cobwebs off these corner brackets...

made the telephone sign...

made a box to store all my secret treasures...

Note the phone #, I went digging in some of my Dad's old stuff and found our phone number from the 60's... remember when it was letters instead of area codes... the letters stood for Liberty, which was a 54 number... Ja was for Jackson, for a 52 number and Fe was for Fennel, which was for a 38 number.

now it needed a lid... painted it with chalkboard paint...

where else would you write all those imaginary messages?...

added a knob... because this brain does not compute hinges... did they have hinges in the olden days?

I didn't think so...haha

added an old lamp bracket to hold the chalk...

wrapped the chalk with duct tape to stop it from falling through..

oh and let's not forget the phone...

and there you have it... a one of a kind wall telephone display...

PB eat your heart out... it's mine, all mine.

this design is out of this very mixed up head and all because I moved a mirror.

I still haven't distressed it yet and that may or may not happen. After two days of working on it, I had enough.

the corner it landed in... and that is not the spot I was trying to fill...

there is now a picture hanging on that.

this is the mirror that started it all...

So what do you think?

Like it, Love it, or Ditch it?

Cost:

left over scraps from the board and batten curb appeal project... $0.00
thrifted screws... $1.00
leftover stain and chalkboard paint... $0.00
Phone donated by a friend... $0.00
porcelain knob... $1.00
corner brackets... $2.00
chalk holder... $2.00

TOTAL COST: $6.00

Hope you all have a great week and thanks so much for stopping by... would love to hear your comments.

oops forgot your Mya fix... isn't this the cutest pic...

she is giggling up a storm these days... she is such a happy little baby.

Hugs,

Mya Fix - 03-04-2011

2011-03-04T21:32:00.001-05:00

I know I just posted a pile of Mya but I just had to share these ones with you from today. What a great day Mr. D. and I had with her.

We all went out for dinner and she was as good as gold. Not a peep out of her... she just sat and looked around at everyone.

Just being adorable...

Mr. D. and I bought her this outfit way before she was born, it doesn't look like it will be long before she is going to be out of it.

Mommy and Me

I am standing on my own here... I pinky swear

Gramma something isn't right here...

Oh that's better... lol.

~~I told you I was thick as mud sometimes... hahaha~~

Someone please help me...

She was giggling away here... that is music to my hears, no other sound like it.

Hope you enjoyed your Mya fix... we have to take them when we can.

Hugs, Gramma Deb

Mya Fix - 03-11-2011

2011-03-03T20:16:00.001-05:00

For all you Mya fans out there... I know you have been patiently waiting for these. These were taken this week.

Look what I can do now...

Hi Buddy... I know what you are...

and I know where you go...

check out those monkey feet...lol

almost...

got ya...

Watching Winnie the Pooh with Daddy... she laughs at the funny parts too

okay time for a siesta... night, night all.

I will have more for you tomorrow...

Mr. D. and I are off get my Gramma smooches and take more pics for you all.

Have a great night...

Hugs, Deb

I have a problem...

2011-02-28T13:00:00.045-05:00

As I was walking through my house yesterday trying desperately to find spots to place all my new treasures, I realized I have a problem. I have a shoe fetish... not the kind that the average woman would obsess about.

Somewhere through the years I have lost sight of what was once so important to me... instead of wearing shoes... I am now decorating with them, what is wrong with me?

Now I don't know if there is an actual medical condition you can label this with, but me thinks that this can't be normal...

now it isn't the big shoes I like... they have to be baby size...

these are actually Leprechaun size... check out those toes

even Fred has his own pair...

they are everywhere...

on my mantle...

let's not forget the stand to put them on...

in my hallway... a doily even... what was I thinking?... check out those toes

in the washroom... check out those toes

Can you have an obsession within another obsession?

I just realized that I not only like them small, but I obviously like them beat up...

in my other hallway

this one even received special treatment...

clearly this fetish didn't start overnight...

these are my daughters first shoes and she is 34 years old...

check out those toes...

oh no, one pair was bad enough but I saved two pairs

There seems to be shoes everywhere in my house except in my closet.

Now I ask you, is this normal?

Should I be concerned?

I would really appreciate your thoughts on this matter.

I don't dare show you my cast iron fetish...or my cast iron bank fetish... or my butter churn fetish... or my pottery fetish... or my wood fetish... or all the other remaining fetishes I have lurking under my roof...

Okay so I am now recording the Hoarding programs to watch at a later date.

Do you have a fetish you would like to share... please come clean and make me feel better...lol

Hugs,

Memory Hunting - 02-27-2011

2011-02-27T18:59:00.007-05:00

Although we got a few more inches of snow again last night my GF and I decided that wasn't enough to deter us from our memory hunt today.

Mother Nature was actually in a good mood today and decided to give us some warmer weather for a change... now 36° F isn't exactly beach weather but it was insurance that we weren't going to run into anymore snow along the way.

I didn't find what I was looking for, hahaha I never know what I am looking for, who am I kidding... but I always know I am going to find something I don't need or have a home for...

now if you are a prim lover could you really turn down this awesome wringer for $22.00?... oh this one brings memories flooding back... we actually had a wringer washer my whole life living at home and no dryer... can you even imagine raising 5 kids with no automatics. I detested doing laundry for my mother... my sell off was if my sister washed the clothes and hung them out I would bring them in and iron them... I had a lot of experience ironing let me tell ya... now I don't iron anything unless I absolutely have to

I just had to grab this butter press for $15.00... these are getting harder and harder to find and they don't usually come cheap...

the inside press...

aren't they a cute couple?...

you know the rule... cast iron

and a bank... hands off, it's mine... $7.00

and she already had a big sister waiting for her at home... isn't she cute?

I just love this piece

I have never seen one of these for pepper before, they have always been for salt... now where did I see the salt ones now that I want it...hmmmm

it isn't old but that is okay... for $4.00 I wasn't too concerned about it...

a cute little cast iron cobbler's shoe mold... $3.00

a handmade bat house... $15.00...

this is going to get a makeover and find a home in a tree in the yard... did you know bats eat thousands of mosquitoes a day... I know we have bats around here so why not give them their own address... I might be able to sit out on my deck this year without getting eaten alive.

I found the red spice box on Ebay last week... it looks exactly like the authentic one that I have been wanting for so long but just cannot justify paying $200 + dollars for... I won this one for 17.50... I was thrilled.

Well I am off to watch another marathon run of that Hoarding show and snap myself back to reality... lol

Hope you all had a great weekend... thanks for stopping by.

Hugs, Deb

Vote for Mya Please

2011-02-26T15:12:00.003-05:00

Entry

JOHNSON’S® Baby Facebook Photo Contest

http://apps.facebook.com/johnsonsbabycanada/entry/133832?=f1gqpm

Would you be so kind to vote for our sweet little Mya... you can vote once a day. Just click on the link above and it will take you right to it.

Thanks everyone... hugs.

Magazine Holder - 02-26-11

2011-02-26T13:04:00.010-05:00

Yesterday was just another typical Canadian winter day around here... storming and blowing and more of the disgusting white stuff... I just couldn't bare the thought of looking at it another day. So I headed off to the downstairs workshop to hibernate once again. I had a project in mind for a change so now it was time to put some of those tools to work... their holiday is over.

I had a magazine rack in my washroom forever and I never did like it but there was too big holes behind it so it had no choice but to stay put... I just couldn't find another one to replace it with. While trying to sleep the other night another light bulb went off... make one you fool. Sometimes I am as slow as molasses.

I had all those left over pieces of the board and batten from the curb appeal project so I didn't have to spend a dime on this one. I used some of my new tools and some old ~~never used~~ tools and my favourite tool of all the Green Hornet... I absolutely love that thing.

I cut all my boards and lined them up like good little soldiers...

used my jig to drill the holes...

clamped the boards and screwed them together... and that's when I got really thick again... I got so busy concentrating on what I was doing I forgot the rest of the pics... I really didn't have a plan for this so I was just winging it as I went along...

I cut and sanded the holders for the toilet paper and used my new cutting drill to make the holes for the rod
then attached the sides and rail
stained it with leftover house stain
left it overnight to dry...

did a black wash on it... then gave it a good sanding...

it really isn't this gray...

hung it in the washroom and loaded her up...can you tell what my favourite magazine is ?

added the TP...

I am loving it now that it is up...

and there you have it...

a perfectly prim magazine holder

what do you think??

UPDATE: I was just finding this a bit on the boring side so I had a little fun and primmed it up a bit more...

I am liking it much better now...

MATERIALS:

wood leftover from Curb Appeal project
leftover screws
leftover stain

TOTAL COST = 0

Stay tuned my GF and I are heading to my favourite haunt to do some memory hunting...

you just never know what is there waiting for you.

Hugs, Deb

Mya Fix - 02-23-2011

2011-02-23T19:22:00.001-05:00

Big smiles to all my fans out there... I am a happy girl.

Our little blue eyed beauty... xo

New Finds

2011-02-21T00:01:00.018-05:00

A few treasures I have found in the last couple of weeks...

a vintage bath thermometer...

I found this on Etsy via Firecracker Kid Primitives, Carol featured this on her blog one morning... I just had to have it.

I found a couple more on Ebay and they wanted $180.00 for them, I paid $10.00... score.

a centering tape measure and the greatest little invention I have seen yet...

you slide that little bubble to your mark and tap the nail to mark your spot,

no pencil required... so easy I felt like I was cheating... lol

I used it to install this wall lamp today in my bedroom and it worked fantastic...

it saved so much time

I found this at one of the consignment shops by my work ~~no lunch that day~~... I actually bought it for the washroom but I didn't like it... now it has found a home in the guest room.

I love the shape and the neutral colour...

Is it the time of the year or is it just me... It is getting harder and harder to find prim treasures?

Thanks for stopping by...

Hugs, Deb

Before and After... 02-19-2011

2011-02-20T00:35:00.002-05:00

I headed out early yesterday to go get my Mya fix and while there my daughter asked me to do a little makeover for them...

this brick post was really nasty... peeling paint, crooked mortar and worst of all it is stuck in the middle of the room they are re-doing... Lisa used the room colour for a base coat...

they are going to build this into a bar area and wanted something interesting...

I used raw umber, burnt umber and raw sienna artist acrylic paints and a sea sponge...

the mortar was so bad that we had to use tape to form the lines...

the bottom half will be covered and trim will be added to the top...

still needs a little touch up on the mortar colour... they were thrilled with the outcome

this little munchkin didn't need any makeover, just lots of Gramma smooching... she is such a little character now, giggling and smiling up a storm, but do you think she would smile for the camera... nope...

she is up to 11.8lbs now... but she still is a little mite as you can see she is swimming in the bumbo chair... she loves to stand when held, I think I will take the jolly jumper next visit... ~~another thing out of my house~~

she was getting a little tired of Gramma's kisses at this point... lol

Hope today is sunny warm day for you... Mother Nature is still torturing us here.

Have a great day and thanks for popping by...

Hugs, Deb

New toys for the workshop...

2011-02-19T12:24:00.003-05:00

As promised, I thought I would share some of my new toys that I added to my arsenal.

Mr. D. asked me what I wanted for Valentine's Day and my birthday... without hesitation my answer was tools. So off to Harbor Freight we go to pick out what I wanted. He was so patient and he went through every isle with me ~~he was too afraid to let me loose~~ and helped pick out some cool things that I know I will use in my workshop.

First up let me introduce you to Mr. Dust Collector he is a must in the workshop...

thank you Carol for putting me onto this... the large one was far too big, but this one was perfect for what I needed and it just rolls under my work table when I am finished with it...

I can now use this in my inside workshop...

and with this little adapter I can put it in any tool, no more endless hours of cleaning up sawdust...

next up... a needed tool belt and a new tape measure to keep right in that little pouch... no more searching for one...

screw driver bits for the drill... look at all those pretty colours... less chance of losing them now...

hex drivers for the drill too...

some needed drill bits... I like these you just pop them in your drill, no adjusting...

these are the coolest bits... they drill and cut... I am a little anxious to try these out...

the cutest little can to store all my bits...

A ~~finger saver~~ featherboard for the table saw for cutting angles...

a post level... great for those table legs...

now I have a square everywhere I work... I liked the one with the built in level it came with the post level...

you can never have enough clamps... they are like growing another hand...

another organizer box... we know that these are a must...

~~back savers~~ roller ball bearings... these will be great for so many things...

workshop gloves that I know will end up in the garden when summer hits...

sandpaper for my little mouse...

I just had to have these cool little scissors... they just scream prim to me...

more ~~third hands~~ clamps... great for the Kreg Jig...

wire wheels... my garden tools might get a good cleaning this year...

I found this little gem at Big Lots... check out that price...

I am always looking for these... great behind pictures to save the walls...

I always use ear protection with my saws and the small ones just don't cut it... a face shield for those nasty jobs...

Now if I could just find the mojo to go use these little puppies I would be a happy girl...

I am so lazy today.

It's such a gray dismal day with high winds and snow flurries... I am so sick of this winter I could just scream... I need sunshine, desperately.

Hope you are all having a great weekend...

Hugs, Deb

Before and After - 02-13-11

2011-02-13T20:17:00.006-05:00

I just received this email today from a friend... please take a minute to read this. Be patient the before and after is after this very important message.

Dr. Virend Somers, a cardiologist from the Mayo Clinic who is lead author of the report in the July 29, 2008 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Most heart attacks occur in the day, generally between 6 A.M. and noon, Somers said.

Having one during the night, when the heart should be most at rest, means that something unusual happened. Somers and his colleagues have been working for a decade to show that sleep apnea is to blame.

1. If you take an aspirin or a baby aspirin once a day, take it at night. The reason: aspirin has a 24-hour "half-life"; therefore, if most heart attacks happen in the wee hours of the morning, the aspirin would be strongest in your system.

2. FYI, aspirin lasts a really long time in your medicine chest for years, (when it gets old, it smells like vinegar). Please read on.

Something that we can do to help ourselves - nice to know.

Bayer is making crystal aspirin to dissolve instantly on the tongue. They work much faster than the tablets.

Why keep aspirin by your bedside? It's about Heart Attacks: There are other symptoms of an heart attack besides the pain on the left arm. One must also be aware of an intense pain on the chin, as well as nausea and lots of sweating, however these symptoms may also occur less frequently. Note: There may be NO pain in the chest during a heart attack.

The majority of people (about 60%) who had a heart attack during their sleep, did not wake up. However, if it occurs, the chest pain may wake you up from your deep sleep.

If that happens, immediately dissolve two aspirins in your mouth and swallow them with a bit of water.

Afterwards:

- call 911

- phone a neighbor or a family member who lives very close by

- say "heart attack!"

- say that you have taken 2 aspirins.

- take a seat on a chair or sofa near the front door, and wait for their arrival and...

- DO NOT lie down!

A Cardiologist has stated that, if each person, after receiving this e-mail, sends it to 10 people, probably one life can be saved!

I have already shared the information- - What about you?

Isn't it ironic that this would be waiting for me in my inbox, as it fits right in with my post. A dear friend of mine had a heart attack last week and thanks to emails like this, the first thing she did was eat an aspirin... the nurse told her it probably stopped it in its track.

Barb did not have chest pain or any of the common symptoms as we know them. Hers started with a very sore throat and a severe pain in her jaw. She called 911 immediately and the ambulance took her to the hospital.

After all was said and done there is no permanent damage but more of an injury because she acted quickly. She has been instructed to do NOTHING for a month to allow the heart to heal. That is where my before and after starts....

I headed over to the states to visit Mr. D. this weekend and on the way in I just had to stop at the Sally Ann to see what I had been missing for the last few months... it was a bit disappointing, but I did manage to find this little handmade gem for $1.99.

the before... I had a plan in my head for this immediately...

I took it apart and got right to work.

Hey, I never said I was a neat painter... lol...

Barb's birthday is Tuesday, so I thought I would make her something fitting...

yes folks, I do know how to spell but I didn't have enough letters so I had to do what any respectable junker would do... use what you have, even if it means spelling a bit funny.

A close up of my misspelled word...

I had so much fun trying to find silly things to fill this with and I put funny little sayings on each little surprise...

...like a few facial masks to scare the grandchildren, the animals and hubby all on separate days of course...

Domino's to bore her friends with...

a level to level all her pictures as she sits and notices how crooked they are... we have this thing about crooked pictures... lol

a rubber stamp to stamp all her books with

"This Book Belongs To" that should kill an hour or two... and a lot more goodies that I am sure she will get a giggle out of.

and there you have it, a DO NOTHUN KIT... what do you think?

I also found this at another Sally Ann... $1.99

It was the perfect height for under my desk... I am using it as I write this with Mr. Leo snuggled on my lap watching everything I do... lol

Well folks that is all I have for tonight... Mr. D. did spoil me with a trip to HarborFreight Tools... I will have to save that for another day though... I got some awesome goodies can't wait to share them with you.

Now don't forget to take your aspirin to bed with you.

Hope you all had a great weekend...

An update for you Mya fans...

Little Miss Mya is now up to 11.4 pounds... she went for her 3 month development check-up Thursday and the Doctor told my daughter she is "perfect"... but we already knew that... she said it isn't always the case with preemies her size... maybe they don't have all the Angels watching over them like Mya does. She also rolled over while there and the Doctor was shocked... she has been doing that for months...lol.

Way to go my little darling Mya.

(Sorry I don't have more pics... my daughters computer went on the fritz and she can't download any pics for the next while).

Hugs,

STORM UPGRADED TO A BLIZZARD

2011-02-01T20:33:00.005-05:00

Late afternoon Tuesday, Environment Canada upgraded its winter storm warning to “blizzard” for much of southern Ontario. Hamilton could end up with the largest accumulation it’s seen in four years.

Starting around noon Tuesday, between 30 and 45 centimetres (12-18 inches) of snow is expected to be dumped on Hamilton, Burlington, Haldimand, Norfolk, Brant and Niagara. Strong, gusty winds could also develop, causing whiteouts and near blizzard conditions.

By the time the severe storm system has made its way through 29 American states and four Canadian provinces, it will have affected 100 million people in North America,

The cause of the storm, is a low pressure system developing over the southern states: cold air from the north will combine with “warm sopping moist air from the south.”
“This is when wild weather breaks out,”

This is not good news folks... so I thought we could have some fun... play along just leave a comment and let us know where you are and what is expected for your area. It will be interesting to see how many areas we can cover.

Feel free to post on your blog, lets' get everyone in on the fun.

Please stay safe and warm.

Hugs,
Deb