Emma's Packing Our Dishes | Moving Tips | Wedding China

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FCOJZuVj2Po/UBiDcWi8LnI/AAAAAAAALhw/9DIY2OPzzok/s1600/IMG_8581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FCOJZuVj2Po/UBiDcWi8LnI/AAAAAAAALhw/9DIY2OPzzok/s640/IMG_8581.JPG" width="552" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Emma has been a busy girl.  She took on the task of packing up our wedding china today.  You might be thinking... weren't you worried that a 7-month-old infant wouldn't pack your dishes properly so they wouldn't break during the move?  I'll admit, at first I was a skeptical, but when I saw her technique, I knew our wedding gifts would make it safely all the way back to Kansas City.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b3z_05U9EnQ/UBiBkSlDLsI/AAAAAAAALfM/ljKx9yf710Q/s1600/IMG_8580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b3z_05U9EnQ/UBiBkSlDLsI/AAAAAAAALfM/ljKx9yf710Q/s640/IMG_8580.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Place felt round on top of plate.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9MJJYYIwaDs/UBiBz5MbyjI/AAAAAAAALfo/-mJRe0B8VLg/s1600/IMG_8588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9MJJYYIwaDs/UBiBz5MbyjI/AAAAAAAALfo/-mJRe0B8VLg/s640/IMG_8588.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Put each plate in a bubble wrap sleeve. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gdGtPO8pq4M/UBiBt7YhOmI/AAAAAAAALfc/AXz5QXfUu-4/s1600/IMG_8584.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gdGtPO8pq4M/UBiBt7YhOmI/AAAAAAAALfc/AXz5QXfUu-4/s640/IMG_8584.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /> Smile.  Packing is fun!  Bang your wooden spoon with enthusiasm.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DIQyYERNweo/UBiB6bEBUxI/AAAAAAAALfw/PlvmhlyQDaA/s1600/IMG_8590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DIQyYERNweo/UBiB6bEBUxI/AAAAAAAALfw/PlvmhlyQDaA/s640/IMG_8590.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />When you've packed 4 plates in bubble sleeves, stack them and wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.  This is a tip <strike>I</strike> Emma learned from rental companies.  When you receive rental china it all comes tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it from clanging together.  <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xmLNQ4d_B0/UBiB_ztsKYI/AAAAAAAALf8/_ZTgu3aMIZw/s1600/IMG_8595.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xmLNQ4d_B0/UBiB_ztsKYI/AAAAAAAALf8/_ZTgu3aMIZw/s640/IMG_8595.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />Next, wrap the plastic wrapped bundles with foam to protect the edges.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EWOsQpvTVCg/UBiCFRdJg-I/AAAAAAAALgE/EXAq-1xpkcw/s1600/IMG_8602.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EWOsQpvTVCg/UBiCFRdJg-I/AAAAAAAALgE/EXAq-1xpkcw/s640/IMG_8602.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Powder Blue Gold Rimmed Anna Wheatherly plates are done... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-r9HmAwIcY/UBiCLIgJXsI/AAAAAAAALgQ/PSdMlLgRMWQ/s1600/IMG_8604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-r9HmAwIcY/UBiCLIgJXsI/AAAAAAAALgQ/PSdMlLgRMWQ/s640/IMG_8604.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Now she's moving on to the Spode Woodlands collection. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CHDiW21d-r8/UBiCQu1O5lI/AAAAAAAALgY/egQK1JMhK8c/s1600/IMG_8611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CHDiW21d-r8/UBiCQu1O5lI/AAAAAAAALgY/egQK1JMhK8c/s640/IMG_8611.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />She ran out of individual bubble sleeves, so she zig-zagged the foam sheeting between the plates, then wrapped in plastic and more foam. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yLNnq8EyAhU/UBiCXYP8knI/AAAAAAAALgk/C1U-TJxcp1Q/s1600/IMG_8616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yLNnq8EyAhU/UBiCXYP8knI/AAAAAAAALgk/C1U-TJxcp1Q/s640/IMG_8616.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />She especially loved the little birdies on the salad plates.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qMvkXwU_sak/UBiCbymwChI/AAAAAAAALgs/_wKb-DT97Ck/s1600/IMG_8618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qMvkXwU_sak/UBiCbymwChI/AAAAAAAALgs/_wKb-DT97Ck/s640/IMG_8618.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Whew.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jkZRZnJvGvY/UBiCiU3TGfI/AAAAAAAALg8/LOnvugzHZHM/s1600/IMG_8619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jkZRZnJvGvY/UBiCiU3TGfI/AAAAAAAALg8/LOnvugzHZHM/s640/IMG_8619.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Next the stacks got packed into boxes.  The bottom is filled with crumpled unprinted newsprint - you can by reams of newsprint very inexpensively at packing stores.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-inFzfvJLKB0/UBiCoofVfII/AAAAAAAALhE/jPbc61mDDAg/s1600/IMG_8620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-inFzfvJLKB0/UBiCoofVfII/AAAAAAAALhE/jPbc61mDDAg/s640/IMG_8620.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In go the wrapped dishes, separated by layers of crumpled paper.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f91Kp21G2gQ/UBiCuRJRntI/AAAAAAAALhQ/uO1d2KitEcE/s1600/IMG_8621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f91Kp21G2gQ/UBiCuRJRntI/AAAAAAAALhQ/uO1d2KitEcE/s640/IMG_8621.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The top is topped off with extra paper to make sure it is packed tight and snug inside to prohibit the dishes from moving.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l2sZW21YEu4/UBiCzj1rRCI/AAAAAAAALhY/WPhhky1nqFQ/s1600/IMG_8622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l2sZW21YEu4/UBiCzj1rRCI/AAAAAAAALhY/WPhhky1nqFQ/s640/IMG_8622.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Top with the top and label.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qaBF8MD3idM/UBiC5APwcUI/AAAAAAAALhk/Jbmc0K5lgSk/s1600/IMG_8627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qaBF8MD3idM/UBiC5APwcUI/AAAAAAAALhk/Jbmc0K5lgSk/s640/IMG_8627.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> These are from Rasa Orchards - the orchard of a family friend.  These apple boxes are perfect for moving - they are strong enough to hold a big load of apples!

Emma's Packing Our Dishes | Moving Tips | Wedding China

Emma has been a busy girl.  She took on the task of packing up our wedding china today.  You might be thinking... weren't you worried th...

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Salad for Supper | Chicken, Avocado, Sweet Corn, Red Peppers & Greens

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1G5Jf-ujWvY/UBc63TGsb_I/AAAAAAAALeM/ww8Oz9fzFr4/s1600/IMG_8534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1G5Jf-ujWvY/UBc63TGsb_I/AAAAAAAALeM/ww8Oz9fzFr4/s640/IMG_8534.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Salad for Supper | Chicken, Avocado, Sweet Corn, Red Peppers & Greens<br /><br />When I ask Mike what he'd like for dinner he usually says something "fresh & healthy" (if not steak and baked potatoes).  Humf.  Then, I explain to him that the blog readers don't want "fresh and healthy."  And honestly, neither do I!  Well, I guess that is not true... maybe you and I just need something that is fresh and healthy AND crave-able.  Because, if you're anything like me (and I'm guessing you are...) you're going to head to the cookie jar (or carton of ice cream) minutes after dinner if it didn't have enough oomph to be satisfying.   Oh, and the side of cheese bread helps, too.<br /><br />This salad fits the "fresh and healthy" but still really flavorful bill for me.  It is somewhat like a cob salad - if I would've had bacon, I would've added it!  The avocado makes any dressing really creamy, the chicken makes it 'supper' worthy, and the crunchy sweet corn and red peppers are so perfect together.  <br /><br />On another note, the packing has started (as you can see in the photo above, we're eating amongst packing paper at our table)!  I'm going to be purging the excess from our life and I can not wait.  It always feels so good to get down to what you really need and love - all other possessions will be outta here.  Easier said than done... wish me luck.  I'll be sharing my purging and packing journey over the next two weeks.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pzyLME0geK8/UBc67S_2-eI/AAAAAAAALeU/phG1emy5jng/s1600/IMG_8539.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pzyLME0geK8/UBc67S_2-eI/AAAAAAAALeU/phG1emy5jng/s400/IMG_8539.JPG" width="400" /></a><i>2 Very Large </i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Supper Salads</span><br /><i>Chicken, Avocado, Sweet Corn, Red Peppers & Greens</i><span style="font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><br /><br />2 Chicken Breasts*<br />2 tablespoons of olive oil<br />sea salt & pepper<br />....... <br />1 head of lettuce*<br />1 Avocado, large dice<br />2 Ears of Corn, cut off of the cob<br />3 Green Onions, sliced<br />1 Red Pepper, diced<br />Cheese (I used parmesan, but cheddar would've been great, too)<br />Creamy Dressing (<a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/07/heirloom-tomatoes-with-green-goddess.html">Green Goddess</a> or Ranch)<br /><br />*You could use a rotisserie chicken instead of roasting your own.<br />*I used a combination of bibb lettuce, radicchio and romaine.<br /><br />Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet.  Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Bake at 425 degrees for 15-20 minutes, depending on the size.  Let them cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.<br /><br />Cut lettuce into 1/2 inch pieces, then rinse twice and spin dry.  In a large bowl, combine avocado, sweet corn, green onions and red pepper.  With a fork, mash 1/2 of the avocado slightly to help it incorporate into the dressing.  Add cheese, lettuce and dressing.  Toss well.  Add chicken and toss a little bit more.

Salad for Supper | Chicken, Avocado, Sweet Corn, Red Peppers & Greens

Salad for Supper | Chicken, Avocado, Sweet Corn, Red Peppers & Greens When I ask Mike what he'd like for dinner he usually says some...

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We Bought a New House... and I'm going crazy on Pinterest

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have been distracted lately.  You may have noticed.  We have some major news... we bought a new house!  Or, I guess, we're buying a new house.  Certain things, like, the appraisal and closing still have to happen, but the <i>plan</i> is to buy the house.  In one month. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, yes, I've been distracted.  Then I thought, instead of letting my endless search for interior inspiration distract me, I decided to bring you along. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've been going Pinterest crazy (follow all of my pins <a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/">here</a>) pinning inspiration photos, paint colors, chairs (oh, the chairs...) and general I love everything about this photo photos.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Follow along as I share the journey of designing our new home.  Note, I won't be sharing the photos of the actual home until we move at the end of next month to keep the current owner's privacy.  And to not jinx the closing!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, I've listed some of my new Pinterest Boards below that I'll be updating with inspiration as I come across it.  To follow all of my Pinterest boards (recipes, home inspiration, wish list, clothes, baby...) click <a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/">here</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I7bhAmE6E3U/UBKDMeAM2FI/AAAAAAAALcw/_ilZdOFrR8I/s1600/207236020324024238_wfrnB7CZ_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I7bhAmE6E3U/UBKDMeAM2FI/AAAAAAAALcw/_ilZdOFrR8I/s640/207236020324024238_wfrnB7CZ_f.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/new-living-room/">New Living Room Pinterest Board</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pG0eZatIyC0/UBKDOS-j1rI/AAAAAAAALdQ/-wTbqxxWcmc/s1600/86483255314912061_Fo1wgjW8_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pG0eZatIyC0/UBKDOS-j1rI/AAAAAAAALdQ/-wTbqxxWcmc/s640/86483255314912061_Fo1wgjW8_f.jpg" width="492" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/new-kitchen/">New Kitchen Pinterest Board </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E2pBnHnThQM/UBKDLEVXJPI/AAAAAAAALcg/2mdiLWIvVjk/s1600/207236020323901886_H212cIQf_f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E2pBnHnThQM/UBKDLEVXJPI/AAAAAAAALcg/2mdiLWIvVjk/s1600/207236020323901886_H212cIQf_f.jpg" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/new-kitchen/">New Kitchen Pinterest Board  </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fry3Ux7IAgY/UBKDO4bOUuI/AAAAAAAALdY/N94wgQ0BZ4Q/s1600/paintphoto.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fry3Ux7IAgY/UBKDO4bOUuI/AAAAAAAALdY/N94wgQ0BZ4Q/s640/paintphoto.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/new-house-paint-colors/">Paint Colors Pinterest Board</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K-J9yusJWic/UBKDLjySesI/AAAAAAAALco/xJmoUzsDb94/s1600/207236020323939785_5XaU2yZ4_f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K-J9yusJWic/UBKDLjySesI/AAAAAAAALco/xJmoUzsDb94/s640/207236020323939785_5XaU2yZ4_f.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/house-inspiration/">General House Inspiration Pinterest Board</a><br /><br /> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oj55bU49LNI/UBKDN69CfdI/AAAAAAAALdI/LVBOpI7BN8I/s1600/207236020324024323_M2bo31mQ_f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="624" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oj55bU49LNI/UBKDN69CfdI/AAAAAAAALdI/LVBOpI7BN8I/s640/207236020324024323_M2bo31mQ_f.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/new-dining-room/">New Dining Room Pinterest Board </a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-la6lygfb-kM/UBKDM3HlXqI/AAAAAAAALc4/Up7yj5U6TYY/s1600/207236020324024269_a6Tx2cXZ_f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-la6lygfb-kM/UBKDM3HlXqI/AAAAAAAALc4/Up7yj5U6TYY/s640/207236020324024269_a6Tx2cXZ_f.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br /><br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/new-master-bedroom/">New Master Bedroom Pinterest Board </a><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-XJ4I5eATQ/UBKDKimBOEI/AAAAAAAALcY/YEOJ3btEFp8/s1600/178173728978075265_6S5t0SYa_f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-XJ4I5eATQ/UBKDKimBOEI/AAAAAAAALcY/YEOJ3btEFp8/s640/178173728978075265_6S5t0SYa_f.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/new-guest-room-laundry-room/"> New Laundry Room / Guest Room Pinterest Board </a></div>

We Bought a New House... and I'm going crazy on Pinterest

I have been distracted lately.  You may have noticed.  We have some major news... we bought a new house!  Or, I guess, we're buying a ne...

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We built a bed! DIY Wooden Headboard

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KIYcOV6K_fU/UA1NyVzf8XI/AAAAAAAALV8/-_6LhlYZsO4/s1600/IMG_8442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KIYcOV6K_fU/UA1NyVzf8XI/AAAAAAAALV8/-_6LhlYZsO4/s640/IMG_8442.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last weekend a friend called and asked what we were up to.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My reply, "Building a bed."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Really?  Can you do that?   </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">"Sure.  Why not?" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-doLS6GZsd50/UA1N1AU9h-I/AAAAAAAALWE/PTgh0PGs1Gs/s1600/IMG_8449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-doLS6GZsd50/UA1N1AU9h-I/AAAAAAAALWE/PTgh0PGs1Gs/s640/IMG_8449.jpg" width="482" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I feel like I always get a similar response to people when we're working on a project.  Especially the guys that work at the hardware store.  Why do they always assume I don't know what I'm doing?  It is so frustrating.  And annoying.  I'll be looking at nail guns or sorting through pieces of lumber and they'll come up and ask me what I need.  I'll say something like, "I'm building a bed" or "I'm making a wood counter top for my kitchen island" or "I'm creating a bathroom vanity out of a dresser," and they start explaining to me why I can't do whatever it is I want to do.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-caOhni-hTB4/UA1N9YKU5lI/AAAAAAAALWU/UEpwDNVdsA4/s1600/IMG_8458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-caOhni-hTB4/UA1N9YKU5lI/AAAAAAAALWU/UEpwDNVdsA4/s640/IMG_8458.JPG" width="640" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've got new for you people : Yes, I can and will.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I don't mean to sound "know-it-all-y," and I do know that there are things that I actually can not do (at this point in time... until I google it and figure it out, that is). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh, and when I say "I" I really mean "we" - as you can see Mike has really expanded my repertoire of skills.   </div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CqfavIgPhPk/UA1PYF61qsI/AAAAAAAALZI/51sip-F8KqU/s1600/IMG_8292.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CqfavIgPhPk/UA1PYF61qsI/AAAAAAAALZI/51sip-F8KqU/s640/IMG_8292.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />I feel like this mind-set is what sets people apart from others- in everything, not just furniture building and home improvement projects, of course.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PXdR-zUgPYI/UA1PcAsaZBI/AAAAAAAALZQ/jD20v42K-6U/s1600/IMG_8293.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PXdR-zUgPYI/UA1PcAsaZBI/AAAAAAAALZQ/jD20v42K-6U/s640/IMG_8293.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I also used to run into this problem a lot when I was a wedding planner - I would have a vision for something, like how the reception space should be set up.  The event space coordinator would say things like, "We usually do it this way" or "Um... well, we have never done it that way" and they would get this really nervous look on their face like, "You're going to take me out of my comfort zone and make me actually think today, aren't you?"  Yes.  Yes, I am.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BUB2N4nv-P8/UA1PhXpvMFI/AAAAAAAALZY/bDCHX0NUXhk/s1600/IMG_8296.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BUB2N4nv-P8/UA1PhXpvMFI/AAAAAAAALZY/bDCHX0NUXhk/s640/IMG_8296.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Even when I worked at my 'real' job at an advertising agency before leaving to start my own business, when I would go to my supervisors and suggest implementing a creative new system would making things more efficient and easier, I would be met with a, "Well we've always done it this way- maybe we should just keep doing it the same way we've always done it" response that sent my mind spinning into an Office Space type of moment.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p_kGa6QjZZQ/UA1PpNo7vZI/AAAAAAAALZs/ELdrmatvGH0/s1600/IMG_8298.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p_kGa6QjZZQ/UA1PpNo7vZI/AAAAAAAALZs/ELdrmatvGH0/s640/IMG_8298.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I just wanted to stand and up and shout at them, "You are crazy."  But then I would've been the one that looked crazy.  All is well in the end, because when I told them I was going to quit to start my own business, they, of course, looked at me like I <i>was</i> crazy.  The lesson : You can't help the vision-less.  There are those of us that have it.  And those of that don't.  Feel bad for them.  Don't yell at them and tell them they are crazy.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k10fdXcwlTY/UA1PtzelViI/AAAAAAAALZ0/p2mdIfQ6pYU/s1600/IMG_8302.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k10fdXcwlTY/UA1PtzelViI/AAAAAAAALZ0/p2mdIfQ6pYU/s640/IMG_8302.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Clearly I was in desperate need of a more creative outlet if I was spending my days thinking of new fancy excel sheets to make my day more exciting. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hh8gHRo7eno/UA1PyO3V1bI/AAAAAAAALaA/9cIYJpXOIwA/s1600/IMG_8303.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hh8gHRo7eno/UA1PyO3V1bI/AAAAAAAALaA/9cIYJpXOIwA/s640/IMG_8303.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Actually, I love spreadsheets.  In fact, I spend a lot of time maintaining my spreadsheets for my business, parties, projects, our home and our savings.  I just want to be clear- I'm not insulting spreadsheets or those of you who work with them all day long.  Creativity comes in many ways. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jhQ0GKTzHw/UA1P2VsIQbI/AAAAAAAALaI/sagEIq71apk/s1600/IMG_8304.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jhQ0GKTzHw/UA1P2VsIQbI/AAAAAAAALaI/sagEIq71apk/s640/IMG_8304.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Maybe someday I'll share all of the spreadsheets that I've designed?  They make me smile.  What could I categorize them under?  My Life?  Home?  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4c1kz44OiLw/UA1P7-kkZgI/AAAAAAAALaQ/CMWzaeeN8u8/s1600/IMG_8305.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4c1kz44OiLw/UA1P7-kkZgI/AAAAAAAALaQ/CMWzaeeN8u8/s640/IMG_8305.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It seems that this post has gotten a little off-topic.  Or has it?  The moral of the story is to open yourself to do something you think you can't do.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGxIvbNznC8/UA1OHJivJXI/AAAAAAAALWs/4p-2eD91Bwo/s1600/IMG_8462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGxIvbNznC8/UA1OHJivJXI/AAAAAAAALWs/4p-2eD91Bwo/s640/IMG_8462.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Push yourself.  You might end up with something beautiful.  Be it spreadsheet or bed.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This bed was inspired by the <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/somerset-bed/">Sommerset Bed from Pottery Barn</a> that is no longer available (in a Queen size).  So, I did a little research and found plans for building this bed at my new favorite site, <a href="http://ana-white.com/2011/02/plans/mom%E2%80%99s-fancy-farmhouse-bed">Anna White</a>.  If this post hasn't been enough inspiration for you to push your carpentry limits, her easy to follow projects will.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We built the headboard first, and plan to build the base/frame later this month.  I used the following combination to achieve the finish (I'm including this so when we go back to make the bed base I won't forget) : </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1st : Sand, Sand & Sand</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2nd : Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner (Minwax)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3rd : Stain mixed in equal parts : Special Walnut, Provencal & Golden Pecan (Mixwax), brushed on and left on</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4th : Special Walnut & Weathered Oak (Minwax), brushed on, then wiped off</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">5th : Light sand & buff</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">6th : Danish Oil rubbed on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">7th : Light sand & buff.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>

We built a bed! DIY Wooden Headboard

Last weekend a friend called and asked what we were up to. My reply, "Building a bed." Really?  Can you do that?    "Sure.  W...

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$5 DIY Key Rack

Well hello there. I'm back... with an actual house project this time! It's small, but it's something.<br /><br />Remember this catch-all phone charger/keyholder/mail basket we're using in the kitchen?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3ziCK6KwQuQ/TymHRQaii-I/AAAAAAAABkw/_Ylz-IyiBAY/s1600/IMG_7221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3ziCK6KwQuQ/TymHRQaii-I/AAAAAAAABkw/_Ylz-IyiBAY/s640/IMG_7221.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />We haven't exactly been using the "key holder" part. It's alllll the way across the kitchen (all 5 steps) so usually by that time I forget and just leave my keys in my purse. Which becomes a problem when Brad is running around before work at 5am going through every one of my purses trying to find them.<br /><br />So he suggested a conveniently placed "key holder" station so we both always know where the keys are. And I jumped at the chance for a new project.<br /><br />Step #1 (as always): Hop on pinterest to see some creative DIY solutions.<br /><br />I found a few that caught my eye, such as this:<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/29906784995552618_Dminh6wX_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/29906784995552618_Dminh6wX_c.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><a href="http://www.purplecarrotkc.com/2012/02/diy-frame-key-holder.html" target="_blank">Source</a></em></td></tr></tbody></table><br />this,<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/94646029639036307_rE3CYVLU_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/94646029639036307_rE3CYVLU_c.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><a href="http://www.mothology.com/PhotoGallery.asp?ProductCode=WC%2DHOTELc" target="_blank">Source</a></em></td></tr></tbody></table>and this,<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/182255116139654647_4BfZYQrj_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/182255116139654647_4BfZYQrj_c.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><a href="http://www.realsimple.com/new-uses-for-old-things/new-uses-decorating/key-holde-10000001642418/index.html" target="_blank">Source</a></em></td></tr></tbody></table><br />But I wasn't entirely sold on any of them so I headed to Hobby Lobby to browse the aisles for inspiration.<br /><br />I ended up walking down each aisle, twice, for at least an hour, until I discovered this guy in the wood section:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DHd2rirEKWs/UAxpO8v_glI/AAAAAAAACz4/Anm4FaFR_os/s1600/IMG_8740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DHd2rirEKWs/UAxpO8v_glI/AAAAAAAACz4/Anm4FaFR_os/s1600/IMG_8740.jpg" /></a></div><br />Retail price: $4, on sale for $2 (can I just live at Hobby Lobby, please?)<br /><br />I didn't know what I wanted to do with it yet, but I knew the possibilities were endless. I considered paint, fabric, wrapping paper, rope, seashells, rocks, 3D numbers/words... so many decisions.<br /><br />Finally I decided to hop on the computer and see if I could come up with a simple design to print out. I ended up with this:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7UnaoDqb0Q/UAxtJ16Wa7I/AAAAAAAAC2o/C6T5Wn0kL8M/s1600/file.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7UnaoDqb0Q/UAxtJ16Wa7I/AAAAAAAAC2o/C6T5Wn0kL8M/s1600/file.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br />Sweet & simple. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4j0eve5Fwg/UAxpQFDv5pI/AAAAAAAAC0U/QycPsvAr4IU/s1600/IMG_8747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4j0eve5Fwg/UAxpQFDv5pI/AAAAAAAAC0U/QycPsvAr4IU/s1600/IMG_8747.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I took it down to Office Max to have it laminated for durability and protection. The lamination cost $2 (for a 12x6" sheet), although I had rewards credit from their ink recycling program so my total: $0.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aT5W-c2fI24/UAxpSEvoKMI/AAAAAAAAC08/D-SMkOjZeEI/s1600/IMG_8762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aT5W-c2fI24/UAxpSEvoKMI/AAAAAAAAC08/D-SMkOjZeEI/s1600/IMG_8762.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I decided to paint the wood white for a cleaner look. I sanded down the rough spots and used semigloss white spray paint.<br /><br />Once it was dry, I test fit a template for cutting out the shape. This was really trial and error. I used an Xacto knife and just kept carving away at the rounded edge until it was a perfect fit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wcuGqXZtzyA/UAxpRT1gNzI/AAAAAAAAC0k/pWAH9pHc0dM/s1600/IMG_8760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wcuGqXZtzyA/UAxpRT1gNzI/AAAAAAAAC0k/pWAH9pHc0dM/s1600/IMG_8760.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once the size was right, I traced it onto the back of the laminate and carefully cut out my shape:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Is3LgoS2DJg/UAxpSZgaCcI/AAAAAAAAC00/NyiqqFzx5yY/s1600/IMG_8763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Is3LgoS2DJg/UAxpSZgaCcI/AAAAAAAAC00/NyiqqFzx5yY/s1600/IMG_8763.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />All done:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xm3VOAnnBwY/UAxpTFhP9UI/AAAAAAAAC1E/yhhd3iADG9o/s1600/IMG_8764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xm3VOAnnBwY/UAxpTFhP9UI/AAAAAAAAC1E/yhhd3iADG9o/s1600/IMG_8764.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I picked up 4 white screw-in hooks at Lowe's for $2 (reason #205492 Lowe's > HD: HD only had gold hooks. Lowe's had plenty of nice white and silver ones.)<br /><br />I measured out the correct spacing and screwed them in by hand:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAYcSNsd6-g/UAxpUUB4LWI/AAAAAAAAC1U/lvnbYERYmVI/s1600/IMG_8766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAYcSNsd6-g/UAxpUUB4LWI/AAAAAAAAC1U/lvnbYERYmVI/s1600/IMG_8766.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Finally, it was time to get this bad boy up on the wall.<br /><br />It had originally come with two eye hooks positioned on the top so they could slide over nails. I wasn't a fan of the visible hardware, so I removed them and decided we could just screw the back right into the wall.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pMn7TDUlHec/UAxpU0-ZhVI/AAAAAAAAC1c/3hv_rBYx1IY/s1600/IMG_8767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pMn7TDUlHec/UAxpU0-ZhVI/AAAAAAAAC1c/3hv_rBYx1IY/s1600/IMG_8767.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Ignore the oopsies on the top right...</em></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The right screw landed in a stud, so this thing is plenty sturdy, and nice and flat against the wall which I love.<br /><br />Finally, I applied some double sided tape to the back of my print:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c3fEhHi6D2c/UAxpVGAOBRI/AAAAAAAAC1g/HCJ9yIVD7JE/s1600/IMG_8768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c3fEhHi6D2c/UAxpVGAOBRI/AAAAAAAAC1g/HCJ9yIVD7JE/s1600/IMG_8768.jpg" /></a></div><br />And secured it into place:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPtu1_3bho8/UAxpWDWrhqI/AAAAAAAAC1w/7jewN2pcBZI/s1600/IMG_8775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPtu1_3bho8/UAxpWDWrhqI/AAAAAAAAC1w/7jewN2pcBZI/s1600/IMG_8775.jpg" /></a></div><br />And now we have ourselves a key holder station, adjacent to the garage door which we enter from every day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aP7AqYP61sg/UAxpWXGVyyI/AAAAAAAAC14/iGG5o5fv658/s1600/IMG_8776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aP7AqYP61sg/UAxpWXGVyyI/AAAAAAAAC14/iGG5o5fv658/s1600/IMG_8776.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OKwsxD4_fi4/UAxpXTVzEAI/AAAAAAAAC2E/NL21pvQmhdA/s1600/IMG_8777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OKwsxD4_fi4/UAxpXTVzEAI/AAAAAAAAC2E/NL21pvQmhdA/s1600/IMG_8777.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gSxt3DX0J0I/UAxpVnnRLTI/AAAAAAAAC1s/0f3LEumvKXg/s1600/IMG_8772.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gSxt3DX0J0I/UAxpVnnRLTI/AAAAAAAAC1s/0f3LEumvKXg/s1600/IMG_8772.jpg" /></a></div><br />Before:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l8cGKT1XFrg/UAxpQC2SnYI/AAAAAAAAC0M/qIb_RcCUvVU/s1600/IMG_8744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l8cGKT1XFrg/UAxpQC2SnYI/AAAAAAAAC0M/qIb_RcCUvVU/s1600/IMG_8744.jpg" /></a></div><br />After:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xYPyd5Xhj8Q/UAxpXgKKpvI/AAAAAAAAC2M/_ReUgw0TJ6U/s1600/IMG_8779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xYPyd5Xhj8Q/UAxpXgKKpvI/AAAAAAAAC2M/_ReUgw0TJ6U/s1600/IMG_8779.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Let's hope we actually use it like we're supposed to now :)<br /><br />Cost Breakdown:<br /><br />Wooden holder: $2<br />Hooks: $2<br />Laminate: $2, but $0 for me<br />Spray Paint: $0 (already had)<br />Total: $6, spent $4<br /><br />Anyone else make or buy any key holders lately? I was so tempted to just buy a pre-made one at Hobby Lobby, but DIYing is a lot more fun.<br /><br />Speaking of which... I picked up a few more things while I was at HL for my newly improved office. I'm not quite done with the project yet, but it will be discussed in the next post. Here's a sneak preview:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YlOXyLB5do/UAxpPD2IO2I/AAAAAAAAC0E/ldMtRx7L2yI/s1600/IMG_8738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YlOXyLB5do/UAxpPD2IO2I/AAAAAAAAC0E/ldMtRx7L2yI/s1600/IMG_8738.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />One last thing, business related: My huge map poster sale is currently live at <a href="http://fab.com/kqqz37">fab.com</a>!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OYWYF9aea6c/UAxy3rRSjEI/AAAAAAAAC20/2naaMn8DAUs/s1600/Grid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="606" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OYWYF9aea6c/UAxy3rRSjEI/AAAAAAAAC20/2naaMn8DAUs/s640/Grid.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />You have to register to preview and purchase the deals, but there's always really neat items on here so it's totally worth it. My poster sizes never go on sale, so grab em while you can (and tell your friends, too!). The sale ends Tuesday at 8am PST/11am EST. If you are a member, you can view my sale page <a href="http://fab.com/sale/8394" target="_blank">here</a> (if not, sign up <a href="http://fab.com/kqqz37">here</a> to view the deal!)<br /><br />Be back soon with an office update!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gfekkkM3kNo/TfatfgdK1PI/AAAAAAAAAu4/yRtfmnPH99E/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gfekkkM3kNo/TfatfgdK1PI/AAAAAAAAAu4/yRtfmnPH99E/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><br />

$5 DIY Key Rack

Well hello there. I'm back... with an actual house project this time! It's small, but it's something. Remember this catch-all ph...

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