tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21097972533464467032024-03-04T23:44:03.922-08:00Improvement ListImprovement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.comBlogger139125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-38363500413427823952017-09-06T19:44:00.002-07:002017-09-06T19:44:38.146-07:00Read a Good Book: Reading People I'm dusting off this old blog of mine to share a book I recently read, Reading People: How Seeing the World Through the Lens of Personality Changes Everything<br />
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I've been a fan of <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/10/figure-out-my-personality.html" target="_blank">personality tests</a> for awhile now. When I heard about this book written by Anne Bogle of <a href="http://modernmrsdarcy.com/" target="_blank">Modern Mrs. Darcy</a> and <a href="http://modernmrsdarcy.com/what-should-i-read-next/" target="_blank">What Should I Read Next</a> fame, I was really excited to read it. This book did such a good job of explaining the many different ways to figure out your personality type and talked about all the different angles that this task can be approached. It was a great deep dive into this area that I realized that I was only skimming on the surface until now. I learned so much, and now am able to apply it to my real life. It got me really thinking about other people that I interact with on a daily basis and how their personality could effect their thoughts and actions. I now understand why certain people do things the way they do a little more! I would definitely recommend this book to those who want an easy to understand approach to personality types, that is delivered in an informative, interesting, and fun way.<br />
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Of course I also had to take the reading personality test offered on Anne's blog...it combined two of my favorite things! I was labeled the Escapist, which sounded spot on to me. The best part was after I took the test, I got a list of recommended books geared to my reading personality. I had actually already read a few and liked them. The rest did look interesting, so I immediately put them on my hold list at the library. Will check in later once I read them to see how they worked out. If you want to take the reading personality test yourself click <a href="http://modernmrsdarcy.com/reading-personality/" target="_blank">here</a>. I would love to hear your results in the comments below.<br />
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Reading People is released on September 19. If you preorder, before that date from your preferred retailer, you get two bonuses.... a free download of the audio version and access to Anne's Reading Personality Class, which explores the types from her personality quiz in more depth. Go to <i>ReadingPeopleBook.com</i><br />
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<i>I was chosen to be on the Launch Team for the book, and was given an advanced book from the publisher in return for my honest feedback. All opinions are my own.</i></div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-60322256323773133942016-04-17T19:27:00.000-07:002016-04-17T19:27:23.904-07:00Make Room for What You Love - Third Week Challenge<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And we're back with Week 3 of the Make Room for What You Love Challenge. This week Melissa of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheInspiredRoom.Fans/" target="_blank">Inspired Room</a> challenged us to focus on the entryway of our homes and fight the paper clutter.</span></div>
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<i>Here is what Melissa said:</i></div>
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<i>Make Room for Arrivals and Departures</i></div>
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The arrival and departure areas of our home tend to collect quite a bit of clutter and often end up in disarray. We bring in a lot of papers, coats, schoolbags, purses, briefcases, sports equipment, homework, party invitations, and bills, and we track in mud and grime from outside. How do those clutter spots make you feel when they are out of control? This week, we’ll be setting up a sorting station so we can avoid paper pileups near the front door.</div>
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3 Steps to Setting Up a Paper-Sorting Station</div>
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1. Find a spot near your entry or office area where you’ll take all incoming mail. Put a shredder and recycling bin near this station so you’ll be able to immediately deal with papers you don’t want.<br />2. Plan to sort, shred, or recycle all the envelopes, newspapers, and junk mail, and put your bills in your previously designated spot every time you bring the mail in the house. Everything that is not a bill but has a due date or an upcoming deadline can go on a bulletin board with a clip or pin.<br />3. If a paper is important and you’ll need to access it later, file it in a designated file box or drawer. Give each housemate an inbox if they will receive mail or have papers that enter the house.</div>
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Get Organized Tip: If your child comes home with special papers you want to keep, get a clear box with a lid or a personal file box with folders to store the current year report cards, favorite assignments, art, and other significant papers.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-six.html" target="_blank">entry way</a> in my house was already taken care of last year when I redid this space for the One Room Challenge.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But the paper clutter was something that I definitely still needed to tackle. I always seem to have a pile of papers in various rooms of the house that I can't throw away yet, but still need to be put some place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I have a small narrow closet that really isn't big enough to do much with, so I decided to make this my landing pad for all of the paper that still comes through the house. I put a simple white desk in the space, and added a box and a few bowls to catch odds and ends. I also put a pencil holder on the desk to make sure I always have a pen handy when I need to sign my kids papers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The biggest thing that is really going to help me get a handle on the papers is a new filling system. Now everything can be put where it needs to go, and I will be able to easily find something when needed. I am so excited about this and think it is going to be a great addition to my quest to rid my house of clutter.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If you want to join into the challenge, check in out<a href="http://go.harvesthousepublishers.com/makeroomchallenge" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here.</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And the book is now available on Amazon!</span></div>
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Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-61408624047369027782016-04-10T18:54:00.000-07:002016-04-10T18:55:41.100-07:00Make Room For What You Love - Second Week Challenge<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It is time once again to share this week's challenge. I was selected by Melissa of the blog <a href="http://theinspiredroom.net/" target="_blank">The Inspired Room</a> to be part of a group to help promote her new book Make Room for What You Love. Be sure to check out what <a href="http://www.improvementlist.blogspot.com/2016/04/make-room-for-what-you-love-first-week.html" target="_blank">task I completed last week</a>. And if you want, you can join in <a href="http://go.harvesthousepublishers.com/makeroomchallenge" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is what Melissa challenged us to accomplish for week two....</span><br />
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<i>This week, we’re going to focus on organizing your accessories station! This might be in your master bathroom, but the location doesn't matter as long as it is easily accessible as you are getting ready for the day.</i></div>
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<i>3 Steps to Organize Your Accessories Station:</i></div>
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<i>1. Find all of your scarves, jewelry, and accessories and bring them into one location near your clothing. Start with the scarves, and pick out any you like to wear regularly. Do you have hooks, a scarf hanger, basket, or a shelf for scarves? Hang hooks or set up a basket to organize the scarves you want to be able to wear.</i></div>
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<i>2. Group jewelry by what you want to wear and really like. Then divide the items you use into groups of earrings, rings, bracelets, and necklaces.</i></div>
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<i>3. Set up a simple system and a home for each. The important thing is to have jewelry accessible and ready to use right away. To simplify for now so you can move forward, necklaces can be hung on the wall or on a bulletin board with pushpins or hooks. Hang earrings from a ribbon on a wall or on a corkboard. Bracelets can go on hooks, on a plate, on a tray, or in a basket.</i></div>
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<i>Get Organized Tip: Do you have hooks on the back of your doors and on the wall? If not, make a note to add them so you can easily hang a towel, robe, purse, or even your outfit for the day to keep everything off the floor.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;">I don't wear a large amount of jewelry, but for some reason I apparently have alot of it. Something I didn't fully appreciate until I emptied out my jewelry box and got to work sorting. Once I was done, it was amazing to me how much I removed! I was left with just the pieces I truly loved...and I could actually see them easily now. This will make getting dressed in the morning so much easier. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;">One side I grouped my statement necklaces and what my grandmother would call costume jewelry, </span></span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;">On the other side I have my more delicate chain necklaces and of course a few pearl </span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;">necklaces...I am a southern girl at heart. In the drawers are my earrings, that are now all paired together, and bracelets. On the top of the box, you can see the bag I use to store my accessories when I am traveling. Placing them in a pretty bag helps keep things from g</span></span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 19.32px;">etting tangled or from getting lost.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;">I honestly do not love the wood on this jewelry box, but I resisted the urge to spend hours picking out just the right color and then painting it, adding pretty paper to the back, etc. That will be for another day. For now, I am glad I didn't get side tracked, and now have my accessories organized. It was definitely a success. I can now check this challenge off the list.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheInspiredRoom.Fans/" target="_blank">The Inspired Room</a></div>
Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-69595298171961023422016-04-01T03:39:00.000-07:002016-04-07T20:46:02.435-07:00Make Room for What You Love - First Week Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I am so excited to announce that I am joining with Melissa of the blog <a href="http://theinspiredroom.net/" target="_blank">The Inspired Room</a> to celebrate her new book Make Room for What You Love. I read her first book Love the Home You Have, and was so inspired by the simple truths and lovely advice. Plus the graphics and quotes through out the book are so gorgeous. I can't wait to read Melissa's latest book. I just know it will be just as good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A few days ago, I got this in the mail. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Along with this lovely cup. Perfect for sipping tea while reading the new book!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As part of the book launch, a select group of people were selected to take part in weekly challenges and receive a few other goodies. It was such a thrill for me to be asked to join this group. Melissa is also opening this challenge up to all of you. If you would like to join me and follow along each week click <a href="http://go.harvesthousepublishers.com/makeroomchallenge" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is this week's challenge:</span><br />
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<i>Retreating to your master bedroom should feel like a reward at the end of a long day. It’s a sacred space. In a serene haven, clutter is an unwelcome housemate. In order to launch into your day with energy and anticipation, you need to have the areas where you keep clothes organized and functional.</i></div>
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This week we’re going to focus on cleaning out your dresser.</div>
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3 Steps to Decluttering Your Dresser<br />
1. Empty your clothing and belongings from dresser drawers.<br />
Take advantage of this moment to wipe them out and even add new drawer liners if you want to.<br />
2. Take stock of how much drawer space you have. What do you need your drawer space for? Assign each drawer a purpose, with space for each category of belongings (such as socks, undies, slips, tights, PJ’s.).<br />
3. Now it’s time to put back what you really use. What is in good condition, fits, and you actually like to wear? Put those items back in the drawer in the designated space. Match up socks. If you have lone socks, start a lonely sock basket, and if the mate turns up, you’ll be able to return them to the dresser. If the drawers become too crowded, pare down or relocate items if you have another option.</div>
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Get Organized Tip: You can make easy DIY drawer dividers from old shoe and gift boxes.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">This one was actually really easy for me since I had actually already gone through my clothes a few months ago. I did want to share my top drawer organization though. I found shoe boxes (love the hot pink...the pop of color makes me so happy when I open the drawer) and use them to divide up each category of clothing. It makes it so much easier to find things, and I love how neat it keeps my clothes organized in the drawer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now is your chance to pre-order your copy. Today only <span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Make Room for What You Love will be ***50% off*** for ONE DAY ONLY at Barnes & Noble online \(no joke, April 1)! That's a CRAZY deal!</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/make-room-for-what-you-love-melissa-michaels/1123401844?ean=9780736963176" target="_blank"><br /></a></span></span>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/make-room-for-what-you-love-melissa-michaels/1123401844?ean=9780736963176" target="_blank">Click here to order your book.</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And let me know in the comments how your challenge this week goes. Any great tips you have to keep your clothes organized?</span></div>
<br />Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-39228709581508338942015-11-15T18:07:00.002-08:002015-11-17T18:12:58.217-08:00One Room Challenge: Fall 2015 ~ Week 6<div style="text-align: center;">
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The big day is finally here. Reveal Day! I always enjoy participating in the ORC, and now have completed <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/search/label/one%20room%20challenge" target="_blank">five rooms</a> because of this challenge. This time I decorated my master bedroom. I was so happy with how it turn out, and it is so nice to have a completed room. Get ready for alot of pictures...</div>
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The roman shades above the window seat look so much better after the addition of a ribbon trim. Unfortunately, the cushion for the seat didn't get completed in time, but it will be here soon. Can't wait to curl up with a book and a cup of tea and gaze out the window while sitting in this cozy spot.</div>
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I am so happy with how the art above our dresser turned out. <br />
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I purchased these book pages from ebay, and I love the flower drawings. It needed a little something extra, so I took gold paper clips and slipped them onto all four corners of the pages. <br />
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After using double sided tape to hold the fabric backing and the pages in place, I used an inexpensive poster frame to complete the look. <br />
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And the best part of the room is the rug. I purchased this rug following my <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-fall-2015-week-3.html" target="_blank">tips to buy a rug on ebay</a>, and was so happy with the way it looked when it arrived. It adds just the right amount of color.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORMxFuhbBHd4mlfbyluDotwA6aV8eATXJb5gFkNph_3mNcMkhwGw0NJm9pjBjzGAqf-rnGzvBpBzYwmYBugInpbzNgTvrB6PKlpRVZTmhuADsXDJlTYjhMUWLMXudP4HxBPxEepgmxd0r/s1600/P1020184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORMxFuhbBHd4mlfbyluDotwA6aV8eATXJb5gFkNph_3mNcMkhwGw0NJm9pjBjzGAqf-rnGzvBpBzYwmYBugInpbzNgTvrB6PKlpRVZTmhuADsXDJlTYjhMUWLMXudP4HxBPxEepgmxd0r/s640/P1020184.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have wanted a pillow like this for my bed for awhile now, and I finally made one using a curtain I bought years ago. I never ended up using it for my original purchase, but the pattern of the fabric looks perfect in this bedroom. <br />
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Be sure to check out the other guest participants in the <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/11/one-room-challenge-guest-participants.html" target="_blank">One Room Challenge</a>.</div>
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Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-15506615802221800112015-11-08T06:12:00.000-08:002015-11-08T06:12:07.796-08:00One Room Challenge: Fall 2015 ~ Week 5<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="CSS_LIGHTBOX_SCALED_IMAGE_IMG" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVMj-QZtcOc4cpwP2ugr7B8bRivT6g5pA2OWL6hbeLUh3zqeVBknXHbXfPu3C6186KJARoiGbg7W673im5sCeFnquZ3qOm-AErewL0eYlII-Y5F_N_SUAcmIA57WrA_LXt2mCWJDim58/s1600/Blue+ORC+Guest+transparent.png" style="height: 166px; width: 211px;" /></div>
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And we are in the home stretch, Week 5 of the One Room Challenge is here. </div>
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I have a few projects I need to finish up, but for the most part, I am almost done with this room. Normally, I am in panic mode right about this time. In a way, though this has been one of the calmest <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/search/label/one%20room%20challenge" target="_blank">rooms</a>, I have done. I think the secret was I started out with a good plan and I haven't really wavered from it.</div>
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I can't wait for the big reveal next week, but in the meantime, here are a few sneak peeks.</div>
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Be sure to stop back next week to see the finished room.</div>
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Check out the other One Room Challenge Guest Participants over at <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a>.</div>
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Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-29194279185846313172015-11-01T19:11:00.002-08:002015-11-01T19:11:29.093-08:00One Room Challenge: Fall 2015 ~ Week 4<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVMj-QZtcOc4cpwP2ugr7B8bRivT6g5pA2OWL6hbeLUh3zqeVBknXHbXfPu3C6186KJARoiGbg7W673im5sCeFnquZ3qOm-AErewL0eYlII-Y5F_N_SUAcmIA57WrA_LXt2mCWJDim58/s1600/Blue+ORC+Guest+transparent.png" /></div>
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Week Four is here! I really feel like I need to put a Under Construction sign on my bedroom door. I am gotten bits and pieces done this week in the bedroom, but things are definitely a long way from being complete.</div>
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I put ribbon trim on my roman shades. I didn't want to take the shades down off the windows, (because...well...I am lazy) and the glue I tried to use would not hold long enough to adhere in the vertical position. So I did what any child of the 80's would do, especially one who has long time experience adhering ribbon to DIY decorated sweatshirts along with adding some designs drawn with puffy paint and a little blink with the bedazzler. I broke out the glue gun, and it worked like a charm.</div>
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I am still trying to decide how I want to put up the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000COCIGI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000COCIGI&linkCode=as2&tag=emacl-20&linkId=A5BXUERUGISQDTXA" target="_blank">botanical pictures</a> I bought.</div>
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Should I go the traditional grid pattern ...</div>
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<img alt="My Most Asked-About Accessories: gallery wall grid of botanical prints, inexpensive frames with gold spray paint, custom mats, piano, blue and white lamps, entryway, foyer, stripes: " src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/46/69/a2/4669a2b7c66689f7d512e0f7badc532c.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="http://emilyaclark.com/2015/01/my-most-asked-about-accessories.html" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Maybe hang from a picture rail...</div>
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<img alt="You will love these easy and fun picture hanging tricks from our resident weekend decorator!!: " src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e6/0c/ad/e60cad06ab790a3c74afa1088fe25f9d.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/live-love-home/hanging-art/?utm_source=pinterest&utm_medium=social&utm_content=7.8.2015&utm_campaign=WeekendDecorator_blog_hanging_art_zoomoutcollage" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Or do something different. Now I am liking this idea also...</div>
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<a href="http://www.littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2015/07/before-and-after-alis-entry.html" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Decisions Decision...Any opinions out there?</div>
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There is still some pillows to make and a few extra accessories to add in. I have been lusting after a pillow like this on my bed for years, and I am finally going to make one.</div>
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<a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2012/01/joannas-bedroom.html" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Also, I did decide to get the cover for my window seat made by a professional. Time was the big deciding factor. Can't wait for it to arrive next week!</div>
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Good thing I still have two more weeks because there is lots to do...</div>
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To check out the other One Room Challenge Guest Participants hop on over the <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-guest-participants_29.html" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a>. </div>
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Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-18047614192088323522015-10-24T07:08:00.004-07:002015-10-24T07:08:56.386-07:00One Room Challenge: Fall 2015 ~ Week 3<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="One Room Challenge Guest Participants, Fall 2015, Week 1" class="pinImg noFade" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVMj-QZtcOc4cpwP2ugr7B8bRivT6g5pA2OWL6hbeLUh3zqeVBknXHbXfPu3C6186KJARoiGbg7W673im5sCeFnquZ3qOm-AErewL0eYlII-Y5F_N_SUAcmIA57WrA_LXt2mCWJDim58/s1600/Blue+ORC+Guest+transparent.png" /></div>
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Welcome back to my ORC. You can check in to <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-fall-2015-week-1.html" target="_blank">Week 1</a> and <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-fall-2015-week-2.html" target="_blank">Week 2</a> to see how far I have come redecorating our bedroom.</div>
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This week was spent shopping. Always a fun thing. My big focus was looking for a rug. I thought a vintage Persian or Kilm rug would be just the thing to add movement and color to the room. I love how these type of rugs look in a space.</div>
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<img alt="AStoriedStyle.com" class="aligncenter wp-image-3842 pinit-hover" data-jpibfi-indexer="40" src="http://i2.wp.com/www.astoriedstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/2013-01-08_00151.jpg?zoom=1.5&resize=580%2C864" height="864" scale="1.5" src-orig="http://i2.wp.com/www.astoriedstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/2013-01-08_00151.jpg?resize=580%2C864" srcset="http://i2.wp.com/www.astoriedstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/2013-01-08_00151.jpg?zoom=1.5&resize=580%2C864" width="580" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.astoriedstyle.com/index.php/category/portfolio-2/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bhg.com/kitchen/styles/modern/modern-blue-global-style-kitchen/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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<img alt="LovableLivableHome-DiningRoom" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-74475" src="http://www.younghouselove.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/07/LovableLivableHome-DiningRoom.jpg" height="425" scale="0" width="640" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2015/09/hello-is-this-thing-on/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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<a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-upholstered-walls.html" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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So I turned to my trusty source, Ebay. Finally after about a week of obsessively looking at the listings, and losing out on one rug that I really wanted, I finally got the perfect rug for the room.</div>
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These are my tips to find a vintage rug on Ebay...</div>
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<em>Avoid using too many keywords in your search</em>. Sellers use all kind of words to describe things. If you get too specific you could miss out on finding an item. I wanted a rug that was mostly blue. I used that keyword at first, but quickly realized that with these types of rugs, there are so many colors, that most sellers were not even putting much of a visual description in their listings.</div>
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<em>Select categories instead. </em>First I go to the Antiques category and then selected Rugs and Carpets. I could then further narrow it down by picking the category for the size of rug I was looking for. I then reorganized the listings by resetting sort to list the lowest price first...I am looking for a bargain after all.</div>
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<em>Read the descriptions.</em> Most sellers are fairly detailed and honest when describing the rugs. They will list the condition of the rug and most of the time it's place of origin. Vintage rugs do not come in a standard 5x7, 8x10, etc. so look at the description for exact measurements, or ask the seller if they are not listed.</div>
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<em>Look at pictures carefully, but don't completely trust them.</em> I did study the pictures to see what condition the rug was in and to see if I could live with the kind of damage they had. (I was looking at vintage, so I expected the rug to have had a life with a few bruises along the way.) I did realize though that the color was probably not exactly true to life, since that can be easily enhanced. I was right when my bright blue rug from the ebay listing arrived looking a much darker navy...which was what I was hoping and was very happy with.</div>
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<em>Look early and look often</em>. New listings are added frequently. After a few days of looking, I did start setting the sort to list the most recent listings first. It helped me save time.<br />
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After following these tips, the rug I found looks great in the bedroom. So excited to show it to you all during the final reveal...just a few weeks away.<br />
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Check out the progress of the other One Room Challenge Guest Participants by going to <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-guest-participants_22.html" target="_blank">Calling It Home.</a> </div>
Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-91052191671905478362015-10-15T02:44:00.002-07:002015-10-15T02:44:32.654-07:00One Room Challenge: Fall 2015 ~ Week 2<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="One Room Challenge Guest Participants, Fall 2015, Week 1" class="pinImg noFade" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVMj-QZtcOc4cpwP2ugr7B8bRivT6g5pA2OWL6hbeLUh3zqeVBknXHbXfPu3C6186KJARoiGbg7W673im5sCeFnquZ3qOm-AErewL0eYlII-Y5F_N_SUAcmIA57WrA_LXt2mCWJDim58/s1600/Blue+ORC+Guest+transparent.png" /></div>
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Welcome back for week 2 of the One Room Challenge. I am joining in with Linda at <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a> to make over my master bedroom.</div>
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I played around with some ideas today, and came up with a plan. Here it is....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguWpklt9BJi-fwcyXDYcuFT_H69DwVsks2ZnvRydXoqczr_Euy8SCGEYyzNz0TL5zlfiuuEWFPrNkNlEGHBUqQknUJelhiK4DFoNpmh-c-59veoRhGNwgMIFSLWWSadihL2otgBKnonHMI/s1600/Bedroom+-+The+Plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguWpklt9BJi-fwcyXDYcuFT_H69DwVsks2ZnvRydXoqczr_Euy8SCGEYyzNz0TL5zlfiuuEWFPrNkNlEGHBUqQknUJelhiK4DFoNpmh-c-59veoRhGNwgMIFSLWWSadihL2otgBKnonHMI/s640/Bedroom+-+The+Plan.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some of the things I already have in the room. I will be keeping the<a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/08/make-more-storage-in-my-bedroom.html" target="_blank"> green dressers being used as nightstands</a> and the bed I already have. Also, there is a large wooden dresser I bought at a thrift shop about a year ago. It needs new handles and I am making the decision if I should paint it or leave it as is. Last is the roman shades on the window. Right now they are plain white, but they are just begging for a ribbon trim which can be easily added. Besides for all that, the room is a blank slate.</div>
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The first thing I need to find is a rug. I am currently scouring Ebay to find an antique Persian rug that will look right in the room, is the right size, and is the right price. Placed at the side of the picture above are some of the rugs I am considering. I need to make a decision soon, or it won't make it here in time. </div>
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I also wanted to add some nature inspired elements to the room to give it more the feel of the inspiration room I mentioned in <a href="http://www.improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-fall-2015-week-1.html" target="_blank">week one</a>. I am starting with framed flower prints. I love the image of <a href="http://emilyaclark.com/2014/12/4-beautiful-books-to-gift-frame.html" target="_blank">Emily A Clark's botanical art wall</a>. I am on the hunt for some similar pictures. I am considering framing them and placing them in a grid pattern like she did, or doing something different and hanging the pictures from a rod similar to <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2014/10/affordable-framing-and-easy-diy-picture.html" target="_blank">Jenny's picture rail from Little Green Notebook.</a> Also, I want to do a project with my kids where we create art using sun sensitive paper. I think it will be a meaningful and low cost way to get large artwork on the wall.</div>
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We also had a window seat built in this room which I am so excited about. I have always wanted one, and I am daydreaming of curling up on it on a lazy afternoon, with sunlight streaming in the window, and a cup of tea and a good book in my hand. But first I need a comfy cushion made with some sort of navy fabric. Of course the big question is do I try to sew it myself (what I have <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/improvementlist/" target="_blank">pinned on Pinterest</a> doesn't make it seem to hard) or do I just pay someone. Budget vs time will probably make that decision.</div>
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There is one thing that will most likely not get finished. I really want the baseboards and doors painted white (currently they are a dark stained wood). Now <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2014/10/one-room-challenge-fall-2014-week-3.html" target="_blank">I hate painting trim</a> as I learned when I did it during the Fall 2014 ORC. For my sanities sake, it is worth it to me to pay a lovely painter to do that. I am not sure if I can get someone here in time to do all the painting, so I am just going to accept now that the room might not be completely done in week six. But it will be much better than it is now...</div>
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Be sure to stop by some of <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-guest-participants_15.html" target="_blank">my other fellow guest participants taking part in the One Room Challenge. </a></div>
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Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-83846782655468889902015-10-08T18:54:00.000-07:002015-10-08T18:54:33.907-07:00One Room Challenge: Fall 2015 ~ Week 1<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="One Room Challenge Guest Participants, Fall 2015, Week 1" class="pinImg noFade" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVMj-QZtcOc4cpwP2ugr7B8bRivT6g5pA2OWL6hbeLUh3zqeVBknXHbXfPu3C6186KJARoiGbg7W673im5sCeFnquZ3qOm-AErewL0eYlII-Y5F_N_SUAcmIA57WrA_LXt2mCWJDim58/s1600/Blue+ORC+Guest+transparent.png" /></div>
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It's that time again when many of us in blog-land join in with Linda of <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a> to take on the challenge of redoing one room in six weeks. I will be popping back in each Thursday with my progress. This is not my first trip to this rodeo (you can see my <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/search/label/one%20room%20challenge" target="_blank">past ORC rooms by clicking here</a>), but I only decided about 5 minutes ago to throw my hat in the ring again. Our master bedroom needs to get put together, and I know the only way I will stop waffling on what to do and make some decisions is if I have a deadline. The <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-guest-participants.html" target="_blank">One Room Challenge</a> will definitely give me that.</div>
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I am thinking of keeping the room mostly navy with a touch of green. I was really inspired by this room designed by Lauren Liess.</div>
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<img alt="Mistake: The Bowling Alley Effect Long, narrow rooms are the bane of furniture arranging. But there is a way to play up this awkward space to your advantage: divide the room into zones. Arrange the conversation area in one zone and place a desk along the back of the sofa to create a work zone, or place a small table and chairs in the area behind the sofa for homework or playing games.: " class="pinImage rounded" data-load-state="pending" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ea/f8/4b/eaf84bd27882882348fd8c1e18de2982.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/lessons/expert-advice/furniture-arranging-mistakes-and-how-to-fix-them/?socsrc=bhgfb0821142#page=14" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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<img alt="Achieve fresh style on a budget with these use-anywhere design ideas that are versatile and easy to do.: " class="pinImage rounded" data-load-state="pending" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/78/d7/40/78d74019751dd0563ebc1f343ce73b54.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/budget-decorating/cheap/cheap-savvy-decor-design-ideas/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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I loved the different color combinations, textures and uses of nature inspired fabrics. The room has the same kind of feel I hope to replicate in my bedroom.</div>
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I will be back next week with my plans for the room...</div>
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Be sure to check out the <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/10/one-room-challenge-guest-participants.html" target="_blank">other guest participants for the One Room Challenge.</a></div>
Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-68161703590559201332015-10-04T12:01:00.001-07:002015-10-04T12:01:43.334-07:00Keep a Few Things<div align="center">
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<a href="http://onthisdayinfashion.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Pretty-in-Pink-Prom-Dress-1.jpg" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Yesterday I talked about how I cleaned out my closet. The big thing I couldn't part with were my prom dresses. Are they in style?...probably not. Will I have a time to wear them again?...most likely not. Do I even fit in them?...definitely not. But I just couldn't let them go.<br />
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When I look at my dresses I wore all those years ago, so many memories come up. My mother and I would take a whole day going to the fancy dress stores in town. We would both have to agree on a dress...because for me, I would be wearing it, and for her, she was paying for it. After many false starts and a few disagreements, the perfect dress would be found. Of course, then the anticipation of the big day would begin, and the planning among my friends would start. There would be so much talk and fun between me and my friends as we got ready for the big day. Eventually, the night of prom would arrive and each event would be filled with the highs and lows and dramas that only can occur in high school. <br />
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It is funny how a little bit of fabric can have so much memories woven into it's seams. <br />
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They are only taking up four and three-quarters inches of space (yes I measured). In my head, I know I should let them go, or take a pictures, or donate them to a good cause, or one of the other many things that professional organizers tell you to do. But for now, even though I no longer wear my prom dresses, they will stay in my closet. <br />
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Do you have a piece of clothing you just can not ever see yourself getting rid of?<br />
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To see the rest of the <em>31 Days</em> posts, click <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/find-my-style-day-1.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6ea1bb;">here</span></a>.Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-75460674902171002592015-10-02T15:49:00.002-07:002015-10-02T17:19:13.774-07:00Clear Out the Closet<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.thecoveteur.com/cher-horowitz/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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So with most of my new projects, I begin with first getting rid of the old. If I was going to edit my clothes down to those that are truly my style, I needed to make room for them in my closet. <br />
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And so began the long process of eliminating things. (Yes, I read that <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing/dp/1607747308/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1443830508&sr=1-1&keywords=magic+art+of+tidying+up" target="_blank">book</a>.) <br />
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The goal here at the beginning was just to get rid of the clothes that I knew for a fact I was never going to wear or no longer fit. I had to admit I was pretty ruthless. I felt like I had these ladies in the room helping me decide what to keep, and what to throw away.<br />
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<a href="https://lisalists.wordpress.com/tag/sex-and-the-city/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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If I waffled on if I should keep an item, I admit I sided towards putting it back on the rack. This will be an evolving process, and I am seeing another closet tidying will probably be necessary once I further define my style. This is only day 2, and we have a ways to go.</div>
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At the end of this closet clean out, there is a pile of clothes on the floor ready to donate, and space in the closet, so I am going to consider this day a success!<br />
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To see the rest of the <em>31 Days</em> posts, click <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/find-my-style-day-1.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-71986471201940970842015-10-01T19:57:00.001-07:002015-10-04T12:02:45.270-07:00Find My Style in 31 Days<div align="center">
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I am excited to be joining this year's <em>31 Days</em>. It's a writing challenge where you pick one topic and discuss it each day for the month of October. Thanks for joining with me, as I talk <strike>endlessly </strike>thoughtfully about one subject. <br />
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For those of you who are new to my blog, welcome. In my blog, I always talk about small changes I make in my life. Because while I have a good life, there is always room for improvement. So of course, when I decided that I wanted to be a part of <em>31 Days </em>I knew my topic needed to be of some benefit to me and my life. I thought a lot about what I wanted to do for the month of October, and finally decided that I should tackle a project I wanted to do for awhile now, and that is better define my fashion style. If I know my style, I envision picking out clothes to be much more efficient, and no matter which clothes in my closet I put on, I would feel happy and put together. I want dressing in the morning to be an easy task. I no longer want to feel like I am just a big cliché since I "never have anything to wear." So I am going to spend this month deciding what I really want in my closet, and what clothes will make me feel my best...and of course writing about it.<br />
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We will see what I look like by November...<br />
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And I wouldn't be me if I didn't make out a list of things to tackle for each day. (Click on the links below to see each day's post.)<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">31 Days to Find My Style ~ To-do List:</span></strong><br />
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<a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/find-my-style-day-1.html" target="_blank">Pick a topic and get Started</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/clear-out-closet.html" target="_blank">Clear Out the Closet</a><br />
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<a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/10/keep-few-things.html" target="_blank">Keep a Few Things</a><br />
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Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-22187673057431693212015-06-20T04:20:00.002-07:002015-06-20T04:21:18.771-07:00Redo a Thrifted Lamp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIz8YLMDfdmrHs0A2Hj8u4l0J5KoypKaEzn3PQ03iEQcuCa4prpqGjJrj_hBOvLRpXt7H1xIpzOS6xJydLRnneKTpanTQ8cgXdAmGLG2aks_l7CNGJqAcDb8zEy8Huhc_UWMoDSuRaFBQk/s1600/DSCN1106+title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIz8YLMDfdmrHs0A2Hj8u4l0J5KoypKaEzn3PQ03iEQcuCa4prpqGjJrj_hBOvLRpXt7H1xIpzOS6xJydLRnneKTpanTQ8cgXdAmGLG2aks_l7CNGJqAcDb8zEy8Huhc_UWMoDSuRaFBQk/s640/DSCN1106+title.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>
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DIY Summer School over at Beth's blog <a href="http://www.designpostinteriors.com/" target="_blank">Design Post Interiors</a> is back in session. Today's theme is Thrifted. </div>
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I love the idea of this. If I have a spare moment (which admittedly is not often) it is fun to wonder around one of the local thrift shops and see if any thing of interest catches my eye. It is a bit of a treasure hunt. Of course, sometimes you are successful and sometimes you are not. Which is why the hunt continues...</div>
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Today, I am sharing how I redid two lamps I found at a garage sale. They were the perfect addition to the <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/08/make-more-storage-in-my-bedroom.html" target="_blank">two dressers I was using as nightstands</a> in my bedroom. Check out all the details by clicking <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/08/paint-garage-sell-find-lamps.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
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And head on over to see what others <a href="http://www.designpostinteriors.com/2015/06/diy-summer-school-thrifted_18.html" target="_blank">thrifted</a>.</div>
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<br />Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-33791203082906611332015-06-04T03:00:00.002-07:002015-06-04T03:03:10.679-07:00Love Those Ikea Hacks<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Today I am joining Beth of </span><a href="http://www.designpostinteriors.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Design POST Interiors</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> for her DIY Summer School. Twice a month this summer she is hosting a link up where other bloggers can share their DIYs. The theme today is IKEA hacks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I love wondering the halls of IKEA (ok more accurately following along with the arrows) and checking out all the model rooms. I always get so much inspiration. And the simple clean lines of the Swedish furniture and other accessories allows for such creativity when it comes to turning them into a hack. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Today I am sharing a previous post where I added a little color and some pretty handles to plain Tarva dressers. Check out the </span><a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/08/make-more-storage-in-my-bedroom.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">post</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/08/make-more-storage-in-my-bedroom.html">here</a> for all the details.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/08/make-more-storage-in-my-bedroom.html">Via</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I wanted two dressers, to serve as both a nightstand and storage on either side of the bed in the master bedroom, and these were the perfect fit. With just a little bit of effort, these dressers made a great improvement to the room.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Be sure to pop on over to Design Post Interiors and see what <a href="http://www.designpostinteriors.com/2015/06/diy-summer-school-ikea-hack.html">IKEA hacks others created</a>. </span>Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-91536163864804693612015-06-02T17:44:00.002-07:002015-06-02T17:44:35.485-07:00Check Out a Great Blog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a class="-image-link" href="http://www.penelopeloveslists.com/get-penelope" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_self"><img alt="fly your penelope flag!" src="http://penelopeloveslists.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/banner_Ima.jpg" style="max-height: 125px; max-width: 125px;" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Just wanted to pop in to tell you all about a great blog I am following. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.penelopeloveslists.com/" target="_blank">Penelope Loves Lists</a> is perfect for all those type A, list making, organizing obsessed people out there. It was the first blog I ever started reading, and I am so thrilled that Meredith has recently brought it back. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">There will be a whole new look coming soon, but in the meantime check it out when you have a moment. (You might just see <a href="http://penelopeloveslists.com/organize/her-morning-routine-reader-edition/" target="_blank">someone you recognize</a>.)</span>Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-80388948505450359762015-06-01T02:44:00.000-07:002015-06-03T19:24:53.722-07:00Get My Wardrobe Fixed<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Thanks so much for all the great feed back on <a href="http://www.improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-six.html" target="_blank">my entry way and powder room</a> that I recently finished for the One Room Challenge. Promise to have tutorials for the rug runner, the art made from maps, and the powder room's fabric wall coverings up soon. I am already eyeing which room I am going to be doing for the next ORC in October. The rate I am going with decision making, it will take me that long to pick what design style I am going with.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">In the meantime, I need a new project...so I decided to focus on myself for a change. Looking at my wardrobe, I realized that I really keep wearing the same thing over and over again. Frankly, I am starting to look a little boring. The problem is I am not good at shopping. I chalk this up to the fact that I have worn some sort of uniform for most of my life. I don't really have the time anymore to just wonder from store to store looking for just the right thing, so I have to limit myself to just one or two places to shop in a tight timeframe. Then I get frustrated if the right thing doesn't jump out at me from the clothing racks, and I feel like I just wasted my time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Enter <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/5029018" target="_blank">Stitch Fix</a>. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I had heard about it from a few people. Honestly, I was a little nervous that a personal stylish randomly assigned to me could pick out five items of clothing that would be something I would like and would fit right. But I heard such good things that I thought why not just give it a try. I knew I would only be out the $20 styling fee if I didn't like anything since I could send it all back if I didn't want them. And if I did like something, the styling fee is applied to the purchase price. It was worth that just to see what everyone was talking about. I filled out my profile through the <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/5029018" target="_blank">Stich Fix</a> website (will share my tips later on how to accurately represent your fashion tastes) and waited to see what the personal stylish would send me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I was pleasantly surprised when I got my box in the mail. My stylist totally got my fashion sense.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3vID5qc56LhEc3y6nqHM5xb2fP-Z_EWG_LgEu4DLeJNO34enlxr7YDes9UuLZ6ikIwFyruQD_DxmgzD3PlY1-5arZl1nZwxhbUMy2ZYDQOPxh4p4OmchuK_ZlwBVa5JsCIDpKPhdc53Va/s1600/fix.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="556" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3vID5qc56LhEc3y6nqHM5xb2fP-Z_EWG_LgEu4DLeJNO34enlxr7YDes9UuLZ6ikIwFyruQD_DxmgzD3PlY1-5arZl1nZwxhbUMy2ZYDQOPxh4p4OmchuK_ZlwBVa5JsCIDpKPhdc53Va/s640/fix.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">The first order of business was trying everything on. This was probably the best part since I was in my own home. I could try the items on a few times at my leisure if I was undecided on something, I had my closet right there to see if something that I already owned would go with something that was in my fix, and I didn't have to deal with the weird dressing room lighting at most stores.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">And I loved that I was also sent a card, featuring each shirt or pants in my fix, with two different ways to style it. I am not the most fashion forward person, and it was great to now have ideas for how to wear something that I wouldn't have even thought of.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRjvniZEOUzWFt4sPPlbAPmg8wXeSDlZATRYYtsum2i-FylUazY8zp_e_Tdv348FusdiWXCr4uadje2xbpD9-QXRiKbOtxT-OTCaGKu-itMyo8deuw7WZxTdSoZSjE5lyHCSr95wy7VOuW/s1600/Cards.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRjvniZEOUzWFt4sPPlbAPmg8wXeSDlZATRYYtsum2i-FylUazY8zp_e_Tdv348FusdiWXCr4uadje2xbpD9-QXRiKbOtxT-OTCaGKu-itMyo8deuw7WZxTdSoZSjE5lyHCSr95wy7VOuW/s640/Cards.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">So here where the clothes I received in my fix:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxvXWVqNv-yDhe340a0RCd6HKCUDnLN_YaNbMXfiu7YF9yQrIot60j6hU3VHOXH33iWAXVA299JaTTzITl4DlGBCZEOMzqekpiMocx4DcaHbCwCMq_pqIvN8xNy2GJgLR2vuP2oMfg-pt_/s1600/dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxvXWVqNv-yDhe340a0RCd6HKCUDnLN_YaNbMXfiu7YF9yQrIot60j6hU3VHOXH33iWAXVA299JaTTzITl4DlGBCZEOMzqekpiMocx4DcaHbCwCMq_pqIvN8xNy2GJgLR2vuP2oMfg-pt_/s640/dress.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlNjQ7PpURrf7O_1cG2RYGtE4Gb3j57_OpWtIv9M_b0Q5PJB6dCWBdP00rGYLYJO3F45izq3S4hbqRBqtlamCElw4mo913y9Zd3N2JIOR2b2vvcEkxeKPhRCDupaq1Pog74W4Frq9g1zL/s1600/fav+shirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="604" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlNjQ7PpURrf7O_1cG2RYGtE4Gb3j57_OpWtIv9M_b0Q5PJB6dCWBdP00rGYLYJO3F45izq3S4hbqRBqtlamCElw4mo913y9Zd3N2JIOR2b2vvcEkxeKPhRCDupaq1Pog74W4Frq9g1zL/s640/fav+shirt.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBm12CSy4iTpN4XNSn47esJPci_Q-L8F5BOLsUyvz6m9lKXNjyYu06CXJbNIFiUMtBENk9YiXD7OnN26k0BVvkiVBLFU2ew-WCYhgjhsiLyd4y3dv-hQMO6-yTOagTu__dBmZSpMvJc3P/s1600/pants.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBm12CSy4iTpN4XNSn47esJPci_Q-L8F5BOLsUyvz6m9lKXNjyYu06CXJbNIFiUMtBENk9YiXD7OnN26k0BVvkiVBLFU2ew-WCYhgjhsiLyd4y3dv-hQMO6-yTOagTu__dBmZSpMvJc3P/s640/pants.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMf3NkE_ekc-rbm8ve1BvHxUesDc-TOn_0ZOIzgg9h3OiFOj8AZ0ObLmf2mWXKCFJRUOTeiNhQORp_8jRRR2mjhOn8W7ynfx1AYBodCB-IVj5UoHJ7vQpowel2A9dJYla6ZaHJlT44ZZ9_/s1600/shirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMf3NkE_ekc-rbm8ve1BvHxUesDc-TOn_0ZOIzgg9h3OiFOj8AZ0ObLmf2mWXKCFJRUOTeiNhQORp_8jRRR2mjhOn8W7ynfx1AYBodCB-IVj5UoHJ7vQpowel2A9dJYla6ZaHJlT44ZZ9_/s640/shirt.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19Mf27YuTunBrcFo4eZ3tmnOKvuZUZ9L8GNxT2gqGmbLcXOHw8n0SwMnxW56NFwG4Xw9fIptzRKqmh2OJ7jVk_iFyjT7qIQatuKLKXyY_eS_94Z87pPZ2iO4XG6I3dtjnzt_FYGSc9wbb/s1600/thin+shirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19Mf27YuTunBrcFo4eZ3tmnOKvuZUZ9L8GNxT2gqGmbLcXOHw8n0SwMnxW56NFwG4Xw9fIptzRKqmh2OJ7jVk_iFyjT7qIQatuKLKXyY_eS_94Z87pPZ2iO4XG6I3dtjnzt_FYGSc9wbb/s640/thin+shirt.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I ended up keeping the navy and green shirt and the blue and coral striped shirt. They looked great on me, and was so glad to add them to my wardrobe rotation. I would have kept the pants, but they were a little more than I wanted to spend right now, and with going into summer I knew I wouldn't be able to wear them for a while. Also, the dress I loved when I pulled it out of the box, but it didn't fit right, unlike everything else which was the perfect size. The one kind of miss was the chevron top. It was just too flowy and thin for me. But I appreciated that it was something out of my comfort zone, that I never would have tried on if I saw it in a store and I might of liked it...maybe.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I did go ahead and sign up for my next <a href="http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-7727516-11958005-1413249511000" target="_blank">Stitch Fix</a>, and can't wait until it gets here. (I decided to request one when I want it, although you can sign up for one to arrive on a set schedule.) I asked for some summer outfits that are causal but still a step up from jeans and a T-shirt. I will let you all know how it goes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Have you ever tried a service like this? Am I the only girl who feels they are not good at shopping?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><em>Note: This is not a sponsored post...just wanted to share about something that made an improvement in my life. The post does contain affiliated links since that is what keeps the lights on for the blog. Thanks for the support!</em></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Linking up with:</span><br />
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Tuesday:</div>
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<a href="http://whyidodeclaire.blogspot.com/2015/06/blue-floral-dress.html#more" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Why I Do Declaire</span></a>// <a href="http://www.fashionablyemployed.com/move-over-mr-dewey-librarian-looks/" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Fashionably Employed</span></a>// <a href="http://www.walkinginmemphisinhighheels.com/2015/06/trend-spin-linkup-summer-shoes.html" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Walking In Memphis in High Heels</span></a>// <a href="http://stylelixir.com/2015/06/clare-v-leopard-clutch-and-flare-skirt.html" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Style Elixir</span></a>//<br />
<a href="http://eleganceandmommyhood.blogspot.com/2015/06/bloggers-who-have-inspired-me-link-up.html" target="_blank">Elegance and Mommyhood</a>//<a href="http://reasonstodress.com/wear-grocery-shopping-future/" target="_blank">Reasons to Dress</a><br />
Wednesday:<br />
<a href="http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2015/06/what-i-wore-94/" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">The Pleated Poppy</span></a>//<a href="http://www.shannasaidso.com/2015/06/old-navy-black-maxi-dress-summer-2015.html" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Shanna Said So</span></a>// <a href="http://www.shoppingmycloset.com/how-to-wear-white-jeans-style-me-wednesday-49/" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Shopping My Closet</span></a>// <a href="http://pumpsandpushups.com/peachy-keen-top-oh-hey-girl-link-up/" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Pumps and Pushups</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.themummychronicles.com/2015/06/ripple-effect.html" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">The Mummy Chronicles</span></a>// <a href="http://pampers-pearls.blogspot.com/2015/06/rbx-camo-capris.html" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Pampers and Pearls</span></a>// <a href="http://www.classyyettrendy.com/2015/06/trendy-wednesday-link-up-26-may.html" sl-processed="1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ce0a0a;">Classy Yet Trendy</span></a></div>
Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-4936445821703757682015-05-09T20:45:00.001-07:002015-05-10T05:38:24.315-07:00One Room Challenge: Spring 2015 ~ Week Six<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2K6eC4lgEmoexl9DuL-3nP0TVfY0JG0zsc_FjjQUIEprXReGThyphenhyphenQfs_6eJQAtI72E5KOisVQG9brYmqr0034_Y_UQNhgEpzBtm1LP9HooZbiWggrDXf03iTsKsqayXkhEmdeIMOUBDM/s1600/ORC-LP-Blue-250x183.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2K6eC4lgEmoexl9DuL-3nP0TVfY0JG0zsc_FjjQUIEprXReGThyphenhyphenQfs_6eJQAtI72E5KOisVQG9brYmqr0034_Y_UQNhgEpzBtm1LP9HooZbiWggrDXf03iTsKsqayXkhEmdeIMOUBDM/s1600/ORC-LP-Blue-250x183.png" /></a></div>
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It's Reveal Day!!!!</div>
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It is <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-linking-event-spring.html" target="_blank">week six of the One Room Challenge Linking Event</a> hosted by Linda of <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a>. This time I was a little late getting the room done (so it is technically week six and a half), but good things come to those who wait....</div>
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My entry way is finished, but it was definitely a journey getting to this point. The before pictures I showed in <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-1.html" target="_blank">week one</a> are now just a distant memory . I showed my plan for how I would style the space in <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-2.html" target="_blank">week two</a>, and asked for help solving my dilemma. In <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-3.html" target="_blank">week three</a>, I showed the items that would go into the powder room that is right off the entry way. I also talked about the rug I had picked to use as a runner on the stairs...and then changed my mind in <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-4.html" target="_blank">week four</a>. Even though I didn't have a lot of pictures to share that week, I did list the things that I thought every entryway should have. <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-spring-2016-week-5.html" target="_blank">Week five</a>, I showed the progress I had made, so far. Which brings us to week six and what the entry way looks like now...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ggL-kyTxohitd3wWd5hZnWTg8sqT7zdYggizxeTBnYOhC9EWVxZR7dfhs8rvWZGDZgmB4HK2Kvuz2NKK6x28lDJTadYDjD5gR9OljMwgOsnV10bmC2fCxCfTF96IuNzi-yVyH3EW0WHr/s1600/P1010668=.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ggL-kyTxohitd3wWd5hZnWTg8sqT7zdYggizxeTBnYOhC9EWVxZR7dfhs8rvWZGDZgmB4HK2Kvuz2NKK6x28lDJTadYDjD5gR9OljMwgOsnV10bmC2fCxCfTF96IuNzi-yVyH3EW0WHr/s640/P1010668=.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am so happy to see this room now every time I open my front door.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3-V1LuQm1QVlzXvg-FrASR8QHTweS_6cwhCO5L7P2Ak73SB0Ek2be3FfQUR_DgdWM4KS1FEw6GFZf8X2CQaG_qKoc19c56i-9BNgQiqPMsd9dP42o7rcYbTj_Tg7UIW50LQS-cGzmPLO/s1600/P1010661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3-V1LuQm1QVlzXvg-FrASR8QHTweS_6cwhCO5L7P2Ak73SB0Ek2be3FfQUR_DgdWM4KS1FEw6GFZf8X2CQaG_qKoc19c56i-9BNgQiqPMsd9dP42o7rcYbTj_Tg7UIW50LQS-cGzmPLO/s640/P1010661.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The stairs are such an improvement to the space. And I am so glad I picked this<a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_557544-102-6816-15454-24X96___?productId=50098546&pl=1&Ntt=rug+runner" target="_blank"> rug runner</a>. It has great texture and the right amount of pattern to satisfy my design style, but is still neutral enough to not overpower the room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwfpDLMQKujxqbztgy1MDu7NuPdFz6QAlNw1MXXRvKqnqZIvut0CLme2_K-vYMKgTWeyUqq2DgkxdxrwetLMRoDBMNNkFiIuGKEXLeWjxbnV0NBF-_Y7KNCT2AWCkNeLn5xvp71uuAUih/s1600/P1010623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwfpDLMQKujxqbztgy1MDu7NuPdFz6QAlNw1MXXRvKqnqZIvut0CLme2_K-vYMKgTWeyUqq2DgkxdxrwetLMRoDBMNNkFiIuGKEXLeWjxbnV0NBF-_Y7KNCT2AWCkNeLn5xvp71uuAUih/s640/P1010623.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I added accessories to the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-campaign-desk/-/A-14398895?ref=tgt_adv_XSB10002&AFID=bing_pa_df&LNM=14398895&CPNG=Furniture&kpid=14398895&LID=30pbs&ci_src=328768002&ci_sku=14398895&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=msn&CPNG=pla_new_furniture&adgroup=pla+furniture&LNM={Keyword}&MT=broad&LID=30p37797540&KID=18a1e68a-54d8-f6e9-323f-000017a10e71" target="_blank">table</a> that was already in the room, including a lamp I had for years. I just put on it a <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-chevron-outline-lamp-shade/-/A-17431851?ref=tgt_adv_XSB10002&AFID=bing_pa_df&LNM=17431851&CPNG=Lighting&kpid=17431851&LID=32pbs&ci_src=328768002&ci_sku=17431851&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=msn&CPNG=pla_new_allproducts&adgroup=pla+allproducts&LNM={Keyword}&MT=broad&LID=13p27957384&KID=18a1e68a-54d8-f6e9-323f-000017a10e71" target="_blank">new lamp shade</a>, to update it's look. Two <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-x-stool/-/A-15095070" target="_blank">X-benches</a> tuck under the table, but can easily be pulled out and used when putting on shoes. I also included a fern to fill in the space between the table and the stairs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xduchiF-DYSE2wepgtA1gwSCaEC36i8fl2GTSiW4mytidaNl6nSS0he0t3AZnVaZnvkPqBwU19SMeaAk6eRNDeEsfQM9mUUwZPuk1FOrmG_5ShOQjp-x8quQ79Q0VuAzDzs3NfX58UJA/s1600/P1010672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xduchiF-DYSE2wepgtA1gwSCaEC36i8fl2GTSiW4mytidaNl6nSS0he0t3AZnVaZnvkPqBwU19SMeaAk6eRNDeEsfQM9mUUwZPuk1FOrmG_5ShOQjp-x8quQ79Q0VuAzDzs3NfX58UJA/s640/P1010672.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My favorite thing in the room is the art I added to the wall above the table. I love decorating with maps, and luckily found a <a href="http://knickoftime.net/2013/08/antique-graphics-wednesday-1900s-maps-of-the-world-all-50-states.html" target="_blank">great website</a> that had beautiful vintage maps ready to be printed. I selected states that had places that meant something to us as a family. Plus, I added a little heart to each state, because I am corny like that.</div>
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The powder room is actually not completely finished. I didn't order enough of the <a href="https://www.fabric.com/buy/0371055/valori-wells-ashton-road-fern-stripe-indigo?cm_mmc=pinterest-_-social-_-product-_-0371055" target="_blank">fabric</a> to cover the walls, so there are a few spots that are still bare awaiting the shipment to arrive sometime next week. Putting the fabric on the walls is going well so far. I do love the bold pattern, something I feel you can get away with in a powder room. </div>
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The mirror looks great (although it did take some work getting it on the wall since the studs were not lining up with where I wanted to place the mirror. Actually, my husband figured out how to make it work, because he is smart like that.) </div>
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I added some brass accessories that I think ties everything together. The powder room now has the same great style of <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/photos/gallery/?gid=535551487c11320d3914beed802e3cfb#!/3" target="_blank">my inspiration picture</a>.</div>
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So that is my entry way and powder room. Having this room put together is such an improvement to my home. I loved participating in the One Room Challenge for the fourth time. The tight deadline and motivation from the other participants helped me get another room in my house finished and looking great. (If you would like to see my other ORC rooms, here are the links to my <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/11/one-room-challenge-with-calling-it-home.html" target="_blank">laundry room</a>, <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2014/05/one-room-challenge-spring-2014-week-6.html" target="_blank">mud room</a>, and <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2014/11/one-room-challenge-fall-2014-week-six.html" target="_blank">library/living room</a>.) </div>
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Be sure to head on over to <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a> to see the other <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-linking-event-spring.html" target="_blank">linking participant's room reveals.</a></div>
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And keep in touch by either subscribing to all my posts by leaving your email in the box in the sidebar, or following all of my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/improvementlist/" target="_blank">Pinterest </a>boards. And feel free to leave a comment and let me know what you like.</div>
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Until next time....<br />
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Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-80910131445189571562015-05-01T14:09:00.003-07:002015-05-02T05:30:19.948-07:00One Room Challenge: Spring 2015 ~ Week 5<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Week 5 is here! This is definitely crunch time....and what do I do? Take a trip. Probably not the best plan, huh?!. But I just spent three days enjoying myself, and now I am ready to hunker down and finish this <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/search/label/one%20room%20challenge" target="_blank">entry way</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Before I left I did rip all the carpet off of my stairs. It was actually strangely satisfying....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Now I am left with this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And we paid someone to take down the wallpaper in the bathroom, so I have a blank slate in that room.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Be sure to stop back next week to see how it all turns out....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And see more productive people by checking out the </span><a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-linking-event-spring_30.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">other linking participants</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> at the blog </span><a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Calling It Home</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">.</span></div>
Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-80155588598897016762015-04-23T02:01:00.000-07:002015-04-23T02:04:35.881-07:00One Room Challenge: Spring 2015 ~ Week 4<div style="text-align: center;">
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And the One Room Challenge continues....<br />
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The entryway and powder room in my house are coming right along. If you would like to see the progress so far feel free to check out my past weeks <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/search/label/one%20room%20challenge" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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There have been some set backs. <br />
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The <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-3.html" target="_blank">mirror</a> I ordered is heavy, and it looks like it needs to go into a stud or risk it falling off the wall and me getting seven years bad luck. Of course there doesn't seem to be a stud anywhere near where the mirror needs to go. Because that is just my current luck! I am sure we will figure something out... <br />
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Also, the rug I wanted for my stairs is sold out at the nearby store, and I haven't had time to drive around and find it elsewhere. The thing is I am almost taking it as a sign that maybe I need to rethink this rug since I was <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-2.html" target="_blank">facing a dilemma</a> with picking it anyway. Have to make a decision soon...<br />
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My camera is acting up, so I can't take any "pinworthy" pictures of me pulling up the old rug on the stairs, and putting up the wall covering in the powder room. I should have it all fixed soon, so do not worry. Anyway, I have to save something for the reveal, right? If you would like to see some great eye candy of beautifully styled entryways while you are waiting out my malfunctions, check out the <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/improvementlist/entryways-with-stairs-decorate-improvement-list/" target="_blank">pinterest board</a> I put together. And feel free to follow all <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/improvementlist/" target="_blank">my boards</a> if you like...I love to follow back and discover what others are pinning that way!<br />
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In the meantime, I did take a quick picture with my phone of the lamp that will go on the entryway table. I bought this at a Pottery Barn outlet almost fifteen years ago. It was one of those times where I walked away from it since I didn't really need it, then once I got home had second thoughts since I really wanted it! I had a sleepless night where I tossed and turn and finally woke up in a cold sweat panicked that someone else would get it. Quickly, went to the store the next day, and it was still there. So happy! It has now been on many tables in a few houses now, but it always seems to look right at home. <br />
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I purposely picked a small shade for the lamp this time since the maps I framed will go on the limited wall space behind it, and I didn't want a large lampshade to cover them up. <br />
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I also am playing around with how to style the console table. I am sure it will change several times in the next week, but will definitely have my must haves for styling an entryway.<br />
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-A lamp for task lighting. This is where I check my mail, and since the entryway doesn't have natural light, I need a something to brighten the space.<br />
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-Console table with drawers. I keep things I have to get quickly when I am dashing out the door, like my family's membership cards to the pool and the dog's leash.<br />
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-A tray. This is essential. Once I started making myself always put my keys in the tray, I suddenly never lost them. Amazing!<br />
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-A candle. I always like to add something nice smelling to the entryway. Love being greeted by it when I walk in the door.<br />
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-A plant. Once again it has to be a something that is ok with low light, and I am struggling right now to find something that meets that requirement and that I like. Now that the flowers are finally blooming, and it feels more like spring, I will most likely do a few clippings from my yard and put them in a small vase. Love the pop of color that flowers can add to the space.<br />
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What is your must have for an entryway?<br />
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Be sure to check out all the <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-linking-event-spring_23.html" target="_blank">other linking participants</a> on <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a>.<br />
<br />Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-39843694879199967892015-04-16T02:49:00.000-07:002015-04-16T02:52:20.436-07:00One Room Challenge: Spring 2015 ~ Week 3<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqb_5EdNR-p5cOS2-jjxAYzHX2BCLcpXptgaSejC-UrAjyK5sQJ_OxpLf7SrX7gcS5wnNPSX1cVMBDBj9dxmAd_gqBUmKhy-cvHftIypqv8PuM4czDw4ZZF2XKvxDDyIa5gjlleL8D1M/s1600/ORC-LP-Blue-250x183.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqb_5EdNR-p5cOS2-jjxAYzHX2BCLcpXptgaSejC-UrAjyK5sQJ_OxpLf7SrX7gcS5wnNPSX1cVMBDBj9dxmAd_gqBUmKhy-cvHftIypqv8PuM4czDw4ZZF2XKvxDDyIa5gjlleL8D1M/s1600/ORC-LP-Blue-250x183.png" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Yikes!!! How is it already week three of the One Room Challenge hosted by Linda at </span><a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Calling It Home</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">. I am redoing the entryway of my house and the accompanying powder room. You can see the before pictures in </span><a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-1.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Week One</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I haven't gotten very much physical labor done so far, but I did do a lot of shopping this week...so not all bad.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">First off. Thank you to everyone who left a comment </span><a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-2.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">last week</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">. You all gave such thoughtful advice to my big what-rug-to-put-on-the-stairs dilemma. I so appreciated it. It was a hard decision, but I finally decided to do the stair runner in a colorful pattern. Since I picked one that was fairly inexpensive (for once!), it would not be too hard to redo if I ever wanted to down the road.</span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-marrakesh-rugs/-/A-15466583" target="_blank">Marrakesh Rug</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The one easy decision I made was what to put on the walls of the powder room. I wanted something blue and white. While I liked the wallpaper in <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/photos/gallery/?gid=535551487c11320d3914beed802e3cfb#!/3" target="_blank">the inspiration picture</a>, I really wanted something more geometric instead of floral. I looked around at wallpaper, but just wasn't finding the right pattern. Then I saw this fabric featured on <a href="http://www.designpostinteriors.com/2015/03/my-favorites-this-week-3615.html" target="_blank">Beth's blog</a>. It was perfect! After a little bit of research apparently it is fairly easy to put fabric on walls. We will see though...</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.fabric.com/buy/0371055/valori-wells-ashton-road-fern-stripe-indigo?cm_mmc=pinterest-_-social-_-product-_-0371055" target="_blank">valori-wells-ashton-road-fern-stripe-indigo</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The mirror for the powder room was also love at first sight. I really needed more white in the room, to tone down the bright pattern of the walls. The frame of this mirror fit that bill. Plus that pattern done in nailhead trim matches the brick design on my fireplace in the next room. I think it will be a nice tie in.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Upton-Home-Fayette-Mirror/9497899/product.html?searchidx=3" target="_blank">Upton Home Fayette Mirror</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And of course I had to add a little more shine to the powder room with some brass bling.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Moving on to the other part of the room, I did get the art made for above the table in the entryway. We have moved several times since we were married, and I want to do something to remember the many places we called home. I have always loved decorating with maps.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Great resources for FREE Printable Art!!! No more bare walls! via @FieldstoneHill #walldecor #interiors #interiordesign" class="pinImage" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/8e/91/f5/8e91f5f454b67d3789fd1de497d6a6b3.jpg" /></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.fieldstonehilldesign.com/2014/04/five-free-ways-to-add-art-beauty-to-your-home-now.html" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I decided to frame vintage maps of each state we lived in. I then added a little heart over the city that we called home. Fairly easy, but very meaningful. I will have the tutorial up soon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Be sure to check out <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-linking-event-spring_16.html" target="_blank">the other linking participants</a>. I am sure they got a lot more done than I did!</span><br />
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<br />Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-22608595783037566482015-04-09T02:17:00.000-07:002015-04-09T02:22:55.944-07:00One Room Challenge: Spring 2015 ~ Week 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Welcome back to Week 2 of the One Room Challenge. I had such a good time <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-linking-event-spring.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">last week</a> checking out all the creative plans for rooms. (You can see mine <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-1.html" target="_blank">here</a>.) And thanks to everyone who left the great encouraging comments. I just love how those that are a part of the ORC are always so supportive of one another.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I had about fifteen minutes yesterday and decided to <a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2014/03/fiqure-out-how-to-use-polyvore.html" target="_blank">play around on Polyvore</a>. I quickly formed an idea for how I want to style the table placed in front of the steps. It will be the first thing you see when you walk in the house, so it needs to look good, but still be functional as a place to drop the mail or place my keys. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjt4UHRRYrkTVnHT_r9rM_z6Xgcc9Jepc63igO-SqRzyVas0QwRcyNSj8xta3nP7JkaRFvUITdlYkQDFfKXQlxAFlNZmSTgCkKsBpL9bhc6g8CqBoTL2ctq-8oUlRc1BTAITqXu_81btpa/s1600/Polyvore+entryway+with+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjt4UHRRYrkTVnHT_r9rM_z6Xgcc9Jepc63igO-SqRzyVas0QwRcyNSj8xta3nP7JkaRFvUITdlYkQDFfKXQlxAFlNZmSTgCkKsBpL9bhc6g8CqBoTL2ctq-8oUlRc1BTAITqXu_81btpa/s1600/Polyvore+entryway+with+stairs.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Most of the items I already have around the house. Only thing I really need to come up with is the artwork. I do plan to make a cute art project using maps. More on that later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Now I have a dilemma and need some advice. I am trying to decide what carpet to put on the stairs. I am leaning towards a colorful rug runner like <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-marrakesh-rugs/-/A-15678548" target="_blank">this</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">But then I start to second guess myself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">One side says, a rug with a fun pattern will add style to the entryway. I love color, but the rest of my house is tending to be on the neutral and dare I say safe side when it comes to decorating. A colorful rug on the stairs with add some pop to the room.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Stair Runner with 30$ rugs. What an amazing idea." class="pinImage" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/bb/1f/04/bb1f0422f4fe1590839264b429786da4.jpg" width="426" /></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><a href="http://whatemilydoes.com/diy-stair-runner/" target="_blank">via</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2013/11/stairs-and-stripes/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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<img alt="Love the antelope runner. {Home Tour: A Preppy Connecticut House With Ladylike Details via @domainehome}" class="pinImage" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/5d/5d/dd/5d5ddd334bcf6c75a412a1e63c108287.jpg" /></div>
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<img alt="oriental runners for stairs | Stairs & Runners - Mark Gonsenhauser's Rug & Carpet Superstore ..." class="pinImage" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/64/c4/e3/64c4e3be70780eeae83b0421c7512446.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.igotyourrug.com/rugs/stairs-runners/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">But the other side worries, that when we do sell this house (which will be a few years, but is inevitable) this would limit the type of buyer. They might look at the stairs and walk out the door. Also, it would be harder to decorate around it if later on I decide to change things up. Plus, keeping it neutral is the safe way to go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="20 Inspiring White Entryways" class="pinImage" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ab/1e/b4/ab1eb41f2f4424dcd969833974fcda5c.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span> <span style="font-family: Georgia;"><a href="http://providenthomedesign.com/2014/12/17/im-dreaming-white-entry/" target="_blank">via</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span> I like both ways, and see the benefits of either style. So what do you all think! Which way would you go. Colorful or neutral rug for the stairs?</div>
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And be sure to stop by <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a> to see the <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-linking-event-spring_9.html" target="_blank">other linking participants</a>. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-17878711734557003602015-04-02T00:48:00.000-07:002015-04-08T18:07:59.599-07:00One Room Challenge: Spring 2015 ~ Week 1<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2K6eC4lgEmoexl9DuL-3nP0TVfY0JG0zsc_FjjQUIEprXReGThyphenhyphenQfs_6eJQAtI72E5KOisVQG9brYmqr0034_Y_UQNhgEpzBtm1LP9HooZbiWggrDXf03iTsKsqayXkhEmdeIMOUBDM/s1600/ORC-LP-Blue-250x183.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2K6eC4lgEmoexl9DuL-3nP0TVfY0JG0zsc_FjjQUIEprXReGThyphenhyphenQfs_6eJQAtI72E5KOisVQG9brYmqr0034_Y_UQNhgEpzBtm1LP9HooZbiWggrDXf03iTsKsqayXkhEmdeIMOUBDM/s1600/ORC-LP-Blue-250x183.png" /></a></div>
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SOOOOO Excited!!!!! It is One Room Challenge time again!!!!</div>
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This is my fourth time participating in the One Room Challenge. I am so glad that Linda at <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Calling it Home</a> hosts this event every year. I love meeting the other bloggers who are participating, so please leave a comment, so I can learn more about you and check out your room. And if you are just here to be inspired by all the great room design creativity, welcome! Feel free to follow along by subscribing to my email list in the sidebar.</div>
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The best thing about the ORC for me is that I actually get a room done in my house. Here are past rooms I put together....</div>
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<a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2014/11/one-room-challenge-fall-2014-week-six.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fall 2014 ~ Library</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0oA_pLdwBZhTgXs_F-ycvYN4VZ81XIjU0EivbXk4Z3lp5sjGxbunH0vROG4mDbl9TuOjThlwGC8V-Tr9fb44DXDt9vOdYBTbRHhv06IirIHrgHt48a6OMxH52wQm2RPauersY6muGrEQO/s1600/P1000951+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0oA_pLdwBZhTgXs_F-ycvYN4VZ81XIjU0EivbXk4Z3lp5sjGxbunH0vROG4mDbl9TuOjThlwGC8V-Tr9fb44DXDt9vOdYBTbRHhv06IirIHrgHt48a6OMxH52wQm2RPauersY6muGrEQO/s640/P1000951+(2).JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHZjS6EUzFGFIYolS5IpMxRDE-23d-FvZrGLsN1B5ZQmerdx6bgCyLdOWmVaQSDiEmUy9NAw-IHCAFFofWwLwNE5D9Lv3IYRLmg3dR0hncSMpbl-uBr8sHKoAbfc3gA0btRlYH27y-WDC/s1600/P1000398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHZjS6EUzFGFIYolS5IpMxRDE-23d-FvZrGLsN1B5ZQmerdx6bgCyLdOWmVaQSDiEmUy9NAw-IHCAFFofWwLwNE5D9Lv3IYRLmg3dR0hncSMpbl-uBr8sHKoAbfc3gA0btRlYH27y-WDC/s1600/P1000398.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://improvementlist.blogspot.com/2013/11/one-room-challenge-with-calling-it-home.html" target="_blank">Fall 2013 ~ Laundry Room</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOsNwLpQ2-qXbmugDu1TmvIHpvgKZf7l_QLY7c-4rFFPghhVUabaLSdcEUPDSXOB-P5Q_cdKsbKJN5qrDHiF2jpk5bml_q32GFW44HM0saBCC-IHTYYESNIT6EkM13A2JJT9QOsq65fE3/s1600/P8270082+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOsNwLpQ2-qXbmugDu1TmvIHpvgKZf7l_QLY7c-4rFFPghhVUabaLSdcEUPDSXOB-P5Q_cdKsbKJN5qrDHiF2jpk5bml_q32GFW44HM0saBCC-IHTYYESNIT6EkM13A2JJT9QOsq65fE3/s640/P8270082+(2).JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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For this One Room Challenge I am going to work on the entry way of my house. I plan on redoing the carpet on the stairs, style and add artwork to the table that everyone first lays their eyes on when they walk in the house, and spruce up with new wallpaper and a few accessories the powder room which is just to the left as you walk in the door. Here are the before pictures of the space....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1tAKPC3aoU1c3bwt5_WKKntGbRjoxnsrzYRckp3GIqVzvhhrUiCdIZWy51PQDFrnF2jpwBu75UgDY9B3eXRkHwBKNnbmaf9eLxxIAhlXkqWEAwd8qFBadgDFkkuTNqSyB4-MTIWn3m-54/s1600/P1010240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1tAKPC3aoU1c3bwt5_WKKntGbRjoxnsrzYRckp3GIqVzvhhrUiCdIZWy51PQDFrnF2jpwBu75UgDY9B3eXRkHwBKNnbmaf9eLxxIAhlXkqWEAwd8qFBadgDFkkuTNqSyB4-MTIWn3m-54/s1600/P1010240.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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The one thing I do know is that the powder room will have many of the elements of the room in this picture. I just love it as it is definitely my style, and I will be constantly referring back to it as I pick out things for the powder room. Now what to do with the stairs is another story.....</div>
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<img alt="We are big fans of #brass cage lights! Sarah Richardson is a ingenious interior designer. That blue is amazingly perfect!" class="pinImage" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/2f/2a/b2/2f2ab24ee6ce5211e23801d092d7d967.jpg" /></div>
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I honestly have not done much advanced work yet for this room. I have some ideas swirling around my head, and I started a <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/improvementlist/entryways-with-stairs-decorate-improvement-list/" target="_blank">Pinterest Board</a> to get some inspiration, but I don't have a set plan yet. By next week though I should have everything firmed up and a clear design for the space, so be sure to check back then!</div>
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And head on over to <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-linking-event-spring.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a> to see what everyone else is planning for their room.</div>
Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-76336652674477426362015-02-06T07:56:00.000-08:002015-02-06T07:56:14.721-08:00Style the Kid's Bathroom<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I am slowly trying to take the 80's out of our new house, and recently turned my attention to the kid's bathroom. We are going with yellow and red as the main colors (my kid's favorites) with a painted gray vanity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">This is what I picked out for the accessories. For once my champagne taste didn't get in the way (each item was under $50), and I was able to find affordable items that I think will look great in the space. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/35079?attrValue_0=Apple Red" target="_blank"><strong><em>Boy's Robe</em></strong></a><strong><em> ~ </em></strong><a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/zig-zag-bath-mat-b608/?cm_src=PIPRecentView" target="_blank"><strong><em>Bath Mat</em></strong></a><strong><em> ~ </em></strong><a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/honeycomb-tassel-hand-towel-b604/?cm_src=E%3APIPRecentView&catalogId=57&lineid=4" target="_blank"><strong><em>Hand Towel</em></strong></a><strong><em> ~ </em></strong><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/213966544/red-and-white-kids-towel-candy-striped" target="_blank"><strong><em>Bath Towel</em></strong></a><strong><em> ~ </em></strong><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Chevron-Wastebasket-Yellow/35123579?action=product_interest&action_type=title&placement_id=irs_top&strategy=PWVUB&visitor_id=Eh-nHvqK-Mj05tcqF7akHk&category=&client_guid=1dc84abe-9826-44ee-8ee1-45f41404f2ba&customer_id_enc=&config_id=2&parent_item_id=35123581&parent_anchor_item_id&guid=ea1b8f5c-2255-4020-b72a-a1319c47afb2&bucket_id=irsbucketdefault&beacon_version=1.0.0&findingMethod=p13n" target="_blank"><strong><em>Waste Basket</em></strong></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Check back next week for my tips on painting a bathroom vanity.</span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And for more finds under $50 check out <a href="http://www.copycatchic.com/" target="_blank">Copy Cat Chic</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span>Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2109797253346446703.post-77247548726864609262015-01-31T14:05:00.001-08:002015-01-31T15:50:38.706-08:00Warm for Valentine's Day<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Valentine's Day is not a huge deal for us, but I still like to give a small gift, just to mark the occasion. And if it is practical and cute, so much the better. Here are a few items I found on Etsy that would be great to warm more than just the heart. Plus they are all a very reasonable price. I would love to get anyone of these...husband are you listening?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnZxO-aauijm8kwuHdsq5zMF6FB6hVrK6CT3z8cu3RSVu_nickSLwy04rFvaPL-XFhOgfRqOBw4vXvZYeyOS3-vd4YwG4LHhREZSQHIhJ_qXkJmJl6tlSnjOfNwU9TLSMTckQAUlm5sAc/s1600/Valentine+gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnZxO-aauijm8kwuHdsq5zMF6FB6hVrK6CT3z8cu3RSVu_nickSLwy04rFvaPL-XFhOgfRqOBw4vXvZYeyOS3-vd4YwG4LHhREZSQHIhJ_qXkJmJl6tlSnjOfNwU9TLSMTckQAUlm5sAc/s1600/Valentine+gift.jpg" height="640" width="342" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/115423288/valentines-day-gift-for-him-for-her">One</a> ~ <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/178083627/heart-valentine-warm-cup-cozy-for-tea-or">Two</a> ~ <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/207440122/red-scarf-knit-cotton-cowl-girls-womens">Three</a> ~ <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/218388390/love-spell-bath-soak">Four</a> ~ <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176407042/embroidered-felt-microwave-hand-warmers">Five</a></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">For more Valentine's gift ideas check out Reichel's picks on Copy Cat Chic's <a href="http://www.copycatchic.com/2015/01/five-for-fifty-week-8-valentines-day.html">Five for Fifty</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.copycatchic.com/search/label/five%20for%20fifty" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: 2.4px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-transform: uppercase;" target="_blank"><img alt="“Copy" cat="" chic="" fifty="" five="" for="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQQiNzEmqIKSuqx_KeDnb2gvLJXQc-RJ-XSoDgjFzri3FKBLyZ8ezqEez4LMQBnXFvwmcY9yhRX_7BtA7TCiiQzmxEEXLJQli6ZNBR93U5C-BFWZHMTzc6eXOq7QnWj9G5is7skN2u/s1600/FiveForFiftyButton.png" /></a></div>
<br />Improvement Listhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03198694935011514877noreply@blogger.com1