Studio progress: The desk is done!

We're nearing the finish line with our office renovation, and we finally made it past the biggest hurdle with marking the workspace area off our checklist.<br /><div><br /></div><div>After we built and assembled the <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2013/04/diy-blackout-shade-liner-new-office.html" target="_blank">big desk</a>, we discovered it had some wobble to it. Possibly because it was so heavy, resting on skinny-ish legs, and not bolted or secured to anything.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjflc5p63pxLl4ngULcDbZcIWVwpj6lSQ77selvsY7mX2xF5pQZHotXYyYsrvRv2ctL1ZZRFWYu7Xc0OTHoJM0anYUJJW-wxEkEjFOFRrK77gSiXDg48XzK-w96mVZY26sXaGwSz_O2rpM/s1600/IMG_0197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjflc5p63pxLl4ngULcDbZcIWVwpj6lSQ77selvsY7mX2xF5pQZHotXYyYsrvRv2ctL1ZZRFWYu7Xc0OTHoJM0anYUJJW-wxEkEjFOFRrK77gSiXDg48XzK-w96mVZY26sXaGwSz_O2rpM/s1600/IMG_0197.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /><div>The two Ikea desks on either side were also easily moveable—not ideal.</div><div><br /></div><div>To remedy this situation, I purchased some decent sized L brackets and Brad secured them underneath the large center desk into the wall where the studs were (sorry, no photos of this process, but there's not much to it). We were relieved to find that it worked! The desk won't budge now.</div><div><br /></div><div>We then attached the two side desks to the large desk with regular flat brackets, and now those won't move either when you pull or push on them. Success!</div><div><br /></div><div>Then it was time to address a storage issue I'd been trying to resolve for a long time now. See those large pieces of cardboard in the photo above? There's posters/extra large paper inside that had nowhere to go. I had no extra desk space to keep them, and I didn't like to store them vertically (didn't even have space for that). So what's a girl to do?</div><div><br /></div><div>Brad was wearing his thinking cap and suggested shallow drawer underneath the desk. Um, genius! Now I just had to figure out how to DIY it.</div><div><br /></div><div>I decided on a piece of 1/4" plywood and some 1x2"s for the sides, mounted with center mount drawer slides.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's how the placement would be: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhGOD1JASjJ1_fGxrrgBQGYGG_-7BzPKdV__a_asVtAX7n3WDYp84iSwtrl9H_pcma-vYwfws9pYb1hE7DKhIr_JV9F_sq6r794o4HFRL5Ow4bJscxTcYPLUXLJDm-t7Q53jxui3Y9v71/s1600/IMG_0434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhGOD1JASjJ1_fGxrrgBQGYGG_-7BzPKdV__a_asVtAX7n3WDYp84iSwtrl9H_pcma-vYwfws9pYb1hE7DKhIr_JV9F_sq6r794o4HFRL5Ow4bJscxTcYPLUXLJDm-t7Q53jxui3Y9v71/s1600/IMG_0434.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The largest size Lowe's had was 22", and the length of my drawer needed to be 41" to accompany my biggest posters, so I crossed my fingers it would work.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hauled everything into the garage and got to work on my setup. I lined up the 1x2's with the edge of the plywood base and made my cuts:</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNc990wTJ8YTqT7NBhA6CNr5oZO3isfaAOd_2IlLQmajuX8xCcAe0JoTP4-JhyWMpnF6XO4GQUo4xvH3UJydH5ED7nSDB5ta8rxjDJx_h0zDNjXvclqqizetcGqh71gKdU9qu9jpUm4R7/s1600/IMG_0437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNc990wTJ8YTqT7NBhA6CNr5oZO3isfaAOd_2IlLQmajuX8xCcAe0JoTP4-JhyWMpnF6XO4GQUo4xvH3UJydH5ED7nSDB5ta8rxjDJx_h0zDNjXvclqqizetcGqh71gKdU9qu9jpUm4R7/s1600/IMG_0437.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUy2YVr25cuDv0RoiLmXeEVHwp0M11ILDsADZnlfIkXyDREKrTu0V0hwAYN3SK4Xxb-8NXCgvkqBG4FmSu_Iki_Y0Om8vi1n6eGfZfOOYOqlumZZ7uWMTgky3YGuBYny-9_vCC_zYwlnNl/s1600/IMG_0439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUy2YVr25cuDv0RoiLmXeEVHwp0M11ILDsADZnlfIkXyDREKrTu0V0hwAYN3SK4Xxb-8NXCgvkqBG4FmSu_Iki_Y0Om8vi1n6eGfZfOOYOqlumZZ7uWMTgky3YGuBYny-9_vCC_zYwlnNl/s1600/IMG_0439.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Looks like a pretty straightforward plan, right?</div><div><br /></div><div>But then we realized we had a big problem. The drawer glides were one piece and couldn't be taken apart, which meant that once we attached it to the drawer, we couldn't attach it to the desk because the wood pieces would be in the way. DANGIT.</div><div><br /></div><div>Plan B was to chop the wood off right where the screw holes were to attach it to the desk. This meant that the back side of the drawer would be free hanging but we hoped it was light enough that it didn't matter.</div><div><br /></div><div>We started by securing the front side of the rail to our wood (with two 1" wood screws):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi590wxU71cIPih4RAYe2s7HnxhprZFK98fhPEU59cUL71Nr-669-ldCIyDCDPbnuyoJiJUUO6MkPU4BdLptjlL17xaWVEEieE49wG6PYHJecAiLLkExwXuK9uu5MM9AMqZu3HC02ZV3LdI/s1600/IMG_0440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi590wxU71cIPih4RAYe2s7HnxhprZFK98fhPEU59cUL71Nr-669-ldCIyDCDPbnuyoJiJUUO6MkPU4BdLptjlL17xaWVEEieE49wG6PYHJecAiLLkExwXuK9uu5MM9AMqZu3HC02ZV3LdI/s1600/IMG_0440.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a side view to get a better idea:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyFqr4w_mcta9MQxmjmJiyt8awXLtJF5EEHcMK5VKKpoKpEF6CQovX_0KquDihbok1-mV_Edy_yH5dKYpdz2mCWWoAq5j0Bip9wvdkqNOdXKehe03BEIQEPReFTDpR81zuPonu8m4sFFo/s1600/IMG_0441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyFqr4w_mcta9MQxmjmJiyt8awXLtJF5EEHcMK5VKKpoKpEF6CQovX_0KquDihbok1-mV_Edy_yH5dKYpdz2mCWWoAq5j0Bip9wvdkqNOdXKehe03BEIQEPReFTDpR81zuPonu8m4sFFo/s1600/IMG_0441.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Then we brought them inside, lined them to the correct spacing, and attached the back part of the slides to the desk from underneath.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once the placement was right, we attached our plywood base to the bottom:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hHbPZUTNaaPaIJn-Me_KfSAVHoJu5KqiasADO7kUlUKPoPqEQv4_0dhBEaXuCA2Qx5JpeEAsvJugyADQOMpKGaDslCq4AQtJkqd5SBYEjOOfygZXRNztUxoa5tvbfY4H-Z4uoN-vFK1X/s1600/IMG_0444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hHbPZUTNaaPaIJn-Me_KfSAVHoJu5KqiasADO7kUlUKPoPqEQv4_0dhBEaXuCA2Qx5JpeEAsvJugyADQOMpKGaDslCq4AQtJkqd5SBYEjOOfygZXRNztUxoa5tvbfY4H-Z4uoN-vFK1X/s1600/IMG_0444.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And with bated breath, I slowly pulled on the drawer...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LRehN0gHX-7aOu7tWLgrtmcOMv64Cgq-ailzbTEU6x-MOH1f777Dbjiww8kddcgshHLurTIFOWQCaTq0gv3F4k2m0KdeuylezvY5aaIXqVY9aKtSomECAdln6rUeInFxf7uFwPO-rPGl/s1600/IMG_0446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LRehN0gHX-7aOu7tWLgrtmcOMv64Cgq-ailzbTEU6x-MOH1f777Dbjiww8kddcgshHLurTIFOWQCaTq0gv3F4k2m0KdeuylezvY5aaIXqVY9aKtSomECAdln6rUeInFxf7uFwPO-rPGl/s1600/IMG_0446.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>and it worked!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQn-3IDSOsKl5z5q5Ho95Pem9GekvVAn-H-BwB8zVC9CNmuFIZ-xbby40M6Sy-7VbiR10RamjaPRDlAFCquGy_eCQ2PUx12LuD7i-3yfz4RGLrwW28sNzQFswoU5prENJQF1yKNg5GMiI/s1600/IMG_0445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQn-3IDSOsKl5z5q5Ho95Pem9GekvVAn-H-BwB8zVC9CNmuFIZ-xbby40M6Sy-7VbiR10RamjaPRDlAFCquGy_eCQ2PUx12LuD7i-3yfz4RGLrwW28sNzQFswoU5prENJQF1yKNg5GMiI/s1600/IMG_0445.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>What a sense of relief to be able to FINALLY get rid of that old cardboard that has been driving me crazy for over a year and have my posters nicely tucked away out of sight. </div><div><br /></div><div>We celebrated by rolling out the <a href="http://www.rugsusa.com/rugsusa/rugs/rugs-usa-dulcet-ikat/spa/200BHBC27A-508.html" target="_blank">new rug</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Gu8AldYwE7vZy7M8G_VyCttFu6TWKCl8KmX8WUdpYuFEfY4CbG-gHZwqf1PZnr53wWq-DplRvINJar6-wctRi6ClRAhIKg7L57119nX6yFSzB3NdRpm9yBwy0SN3yGXrm5eYU6AsVU4G/s1600/IMG_0449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Gu8AldYwE7vZy7M8G_VyCttFu6TWKCl8KmX8WUdpYuFEfY4CbG-gHZwqf1PZnr53wWq-DplRvINJar6-wctRi6ClRAhIKg7L57119nX6yFSzB3NdRpm9yBwy0SN3yGXrm5eYU6AsVU4G/s1600/IMG_0449.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And yes, we totally should have done this before securing the desks in place... it was a total pain to get situated underneath everything! But it made such a difference in the overall feel of the room. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD52059SGZSdKoTesas9QYAZdEGdzNmHi7CJIGUn5r5bdAJE7cSkC-8YH-8u7dWHE3f1LsKdAzJiJGPtBLV9IiUYBHunbBrreozBVYzJpkAsRiE-p1XA8R4DYN3nTQThp3B1_FJEgz-vma/s1600/IMG_0459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD52059SGZSdKoTesas9QYAZdEGdzNmHi7CJIGUn5r5bdAJE7cSkC-8YH-8u7dWHE3f1LsKdAzJiJGPtBLV9IiUYBHunbBrreozBVYzJpkAsRiE-p1XA8R4DYN3nTQThp3B1_FJEgz-vma/s1600/IMG_0459.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It instantly transformed it from an uninspired, white, institutional feel to a creative and happy environment—as it should be.</div><div><br /></div><div>I just hope it lasts, because this little one has made it her mission in life to destroy anything that starts with an R and ends with a UG...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTaAYOK_DPbBrV0NKvQbX-aQvySyJXKM6GqPKz9oID4c5fED-a9zcqqczEcCZM2xD8ndiTkUGsPpb92bUI5e3Zdp1UP3bVQsTnNV9mAF2pfJFPexKEFLUdfW9dOn5gGiVzg18IYZCfPidG/s1600/IMG_0488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTaAYOK_DPbBrV0NKvQbX-aQvySyJXKM6GqPKz9oID4c5fED-a9zcqqczEcCZM2xD8ndiTkUGsPpb92bUI5e3Zdp1UP3bVQsTnNV9mAF2pfJFPexKEFLUdfW9dOn5gGiVzg18IYZCfPidG/s1600/IMG_0488.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Yeah, I'm lookin at you, Miss Susie. Claw caps won't stop her!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Next it was time to get rid of the eyesore in the room...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7CTDQQeU1nvzLIU4gYfzzFulnArSUQM3rGKB67Jv7DuxDr5xjdPsz8zS_vLFXpClzo-4tUAlQ_ALOxVQWOHRbFVOP-xe7y-PAMwZDn-eKQ_AJCqxcKrL3lDS-LgW_JGjjIOYEHVUNnPPE/s1600/IMG_0190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7CTDQQeU1nvzLIU4gYfzzFulnArSUQM3rGKB67Jv7DuxDr5xjdPsz8zS_vLFXpClzo-4tUAlQ_ALOxVQWOHRbFVOP-xe7y-PAMwZDn-eKQ_AJCqxcKrL3lDS-LgW_JGjjIOYEHVUNnPPE/s1600/IMG_0190.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>These horrible unfinished desk edges.</div><div><br /></div><div>They do make white edging tape for melamine boards, but it's only for the width of one board and I wanted it to look like one seamless thick desk.</div><div><br /></div><div>I figured my best/only option was trim, and found some in the perfect width (1.75").</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUKeFWk0RtmGgFexUG23jDV3gsENNsXw_-WZvlsvWjYWQlrgrvCcpWgu89oazUWuiiZdUbytiMTwH3vLwNKukhePEcx6JlKotXUcnXqvvLWcNJqccEkHP2nO_zu95G1YW8KoSiTHNNva7H/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUKeFWk0RtmGgFexUG23jDV3gsENNsXw_-WZvlsvWjYWQlrgrvCcpWgu89oazUWuiiZdUbytiMTwH3vLwNKukhePEcx6JlKotXUcnXqvvLWcNJqccEkHP2nO_zu95G1YW8KoSiTHNNva7H/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I cut the edges at a 45' miter so they would sit up nicely against each other.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4b3rDTctuet3z6AJMSy3tqwjswujnUrCbu4WoojQGHdzL6O54P7l1cxd4XOcHXZr-X_Y7elOSPuIHvZstD5LIk4rP25hLiwsQQXytM_L5vHsSO_kSofUmQXPLPCz8d7g-yBd-GdInsgkW/s1600/IMG_0455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4b3rDTctuet3z6AJMSy3tqwjswujnUrCbu4WoojQGHdzL6O54P7l1cxd4XOcHXZr-X_Y7elOSPuIHvZstD5LIk4rP25hLiwsQQXytM_L5vHsSO_kSofUmQXPLPCz8d7g-yBd-GdInsgkW/s1600/IMG_0455.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Then I used a nail gun to secure everything.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCsokEMTYTdMD8PJ1DLpoJhmDx2s_rpRR-Xlyv0432dC5dsMYtPne7T1Q-AwsfsP8WC_HEue09VCMi_Y5WZArbps1SbOmBNJMpZH-9pk5SpGteobupZ3LWug79CJci8q_dv4akBQzeQ56/s1600/IMG_0456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCsokEMTYTdMD8PJ1DLpoJhmDx2s_rpRR-Xlyv0432dC5dsMYtPne7T1Q-AwsfsP8WC_HEue09VCMi_Y5WZArbps1SbOmBNJMpZH-9pk5SpGteobupZ3LWug79CJci8q_dv4akBQzeQ56/s1600/IMG_0456.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>All it took was some spackle, sanding and touch up paint. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iiBvbhQA8jjqmrWQB4OnZ7gvelh9kmfAx0mdaNZt6EsQKUhl62MWsBEnZwmObvWoRj7T0mfa9UrUw03_aFpylWSgdj2D0WvmefAxbGYaekPXnvgBVERyZ_I4RR_mFWofeDTZlCd6cJHG/s1600/IMG_0458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iiBvbhQA8jjqmrWQB4OnZ7gvelh9kmfAx0mdaNZt6EsQKUhl62MWsBEnZwmObvWoRj7T0mfa9UrUw03_aFpylWSgdj2D0WvmefAxbGYaekPXnvgBVERyZ_I4RR_mFWofeDTZlCd6cJHG/s1600/IMG_0458.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This was the easiest part of the day, and really makes the room look finished!</div><div><br /></div><div>Next, we focused the bare space in the center of the back wall. </div><div><br /></div><div>Remember these letters from the old office?</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWcCytIO_ybEX0tnkAkAjIrruL-_8uqNMy1I3GWgqgMJerr9osODKWPDktfvPplxBM1oohYSs21uDN6Mv9xV26FiHWFPZsapxO6kJeXnXRyZC-PGfp_ZIS8eDsFCKJxGcyryJkPcEmOev/s1600/IMG_8828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWcCytIO_ybEX0tnkAkAjIrruL-_8uqNMy1I3GWgqgMJerr9osODKWPDktfvPplxBM1oohYSs21uDN6Mv9xV26FiHWFPZsapxO6kJeXnXRyZC-PGfp_ZIS8eDsFCKJxGcyryJkPcEmOev/s1600/IMG_8828.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>They got a makeover, via leftover brushed nickel spray paint from my Ikea shelves:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPZLL5fnL1WptYMlv6TcEwWhVSw703NeGYMyWZT_X82sA-6PNZh14qjuCeLglPUas1cN7djudgYbmgMBDo0t-m9sjPX53c_msSgzRwWqknDvZ11QgLe_fmuvMtM5tCo7AbSB69WY0K8WH/s1600/IMG_0452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPZLL5fnL1WptYMlv6TcEwWhVSw703NeGYMyWZT_X82sA-6PNZh14qjuCeLglPUas1cN7djudgYbmgMBDo0t-m9sjPX53c_msSgzRwWqknDvZ11QgLe_fmuvMtM5tCo7AbSB69WY0K8WH/s1600/IMG_0452.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also relocated this Ikea rail that used to hang in the old closet space...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYDaMy9iwTqwNqLhZzg1Z0Q_vgOCdXT53jpt3CqPyRXD0dYHiVhubetydfy24w9SnOgyo_BfUe-3DmdHvQVrmvrWRP7skxNPUeKVxC0Mg8ctRKuI7Dv0VhEfzFVosdZDO60BkpSoZbM2c/s1600/IMG_0448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYDaMy9iwTqwNqLhZzg1Z0Q_vgOCdXT53jpt3CqPyRXD0dYHiVhubetydfy24w9SnOgyo_BfUe-3DmdHvQVrmvrWRP7skxNPUeKVxC0Mg8ctRKuI7Dv0VhEfzFVosdZDO60BkpSoZbM2c/s1600/IMG_0448.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I like how the light is positioned directly above it to illuminate the letters.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN39mdh-UHKUFXch15Tt4k8FRlSxHLTfu7HpwjJomc1ivaPTv0ojlnHFK6dXra_m76VCBXi9J2j-_wUYNFieWbx4TG3Kqx_kyBC2uHIbE2l6ggVA_0IR8ZI-T23NugUtE8WRX69qLYY6tF/s1600/IMG_0450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN39mdh-UHKUFXch15Tt4k8FRlSxHLTfu7HpwjJomc1ivaPTv0ojlnHFK6dXra_m76VCBXi9J2j-_wUYNFieWbx4TG3Kqx_kyBC2uHIbE2l6ggVA_0IR8ZI-T23NugUtE8WRX69qLYY6tF/s1600/IMG_0450.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ok, back to the desk.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After a day or two, I noticed the plywood was sagging a bit in the back.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRH7asgc2FbS_hDbjvLUv4qOskk0yZxlT5Zzn-zKhp7FbBth6eO-Up14ZxBC4jBY8lu-Hgy2jDmf_ZWw6KYtH_OXOWSB0oQbf2BjS3d0B2hQtjRe_6sRBkb_65cGu-ed8Kir9cVpPsXng/s1600/IMG_0473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRH7asgc2FbS_hDbjvLUv4qOskk0yZxlT5Zzn-zKhp7FbBth6eO-Up14ZxBC4jBY8lu-Hgy2jDmf_ZWw6KYtH_OXOWSB0oQbf2BjS3d0B2hQtjRe_6sRBkb_65cGu-ed8Kir9cVpPsXng/s1600/IMG_0473.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh and FYI, the bench in the back was originally going to go underneath my map wall by the printer, but it ended up being too cramped in that corner so it was relocated to this otherwise wasted space under the desk.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another angle to showcase the plywood saggage...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6yMMN0M06yHhazSQT-bcJjSiPnI5CyF7sAZcC7jE2xbi4kxdY94SKWsD59RNOYZrVe2meodF0zZhycgxscTFtXY8NX-e32N3SEBcLUiSHkLIB3tcqnDKL2shl3j0GdKythz2F-3WPnKQ/s1600/IMG_0474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6yMMN0M06yHhazSQT-bcJjSiPnI5CyF7sAZcC7jE2xbi4kxdY94SKWsD59RNOYZrVe2meodF0zZhycgxscTFtXY8NX-e32N3SEBcLUiSHkLIB3tcqnDKL2shl3j0GdKythz2F-3WPnKQ/s1600/IMG_0474.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I chopped another 1x2" to line up with the edge, used some wood glue and brackets to attach it to the front piece, then screwed the plywood in to the bottom. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Problem solved.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP13CW2Jdbcu_hKMLZ1NVBQbQ2OVXCr5q89JH-qBnwP3ycOcp6zwtHZgYcD6D-r8xzssAitnLo_c3-KtPgRxdQEBbnD6q51Q72Vp0krEHyWfCI5QHU-LLq9zi6bDeyfdIpNs-2kAfq7mST/s1600/IMG_0475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP13CW2Jdbcu_hKMLZ1NVBQbQ2OVXCr5q89JH-qBnwP3ycOcp6zwtHZgYcD6D-r8xzssAitnLo_c3-KtPgRxdQEBbnD6q51Q72Vp0krEHyWfCI5QHU-LLq9zi6bDeyfdIpNs-2kAfq7mST/s1600/IMG_0475.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUzx-ARvBYQUC5KC_s5bGwmvhVE7c0yczT4jJ84FW8ZZpXXIXe4nl7KWdzkXyruQmiAFNPqo-Y-tGWyqzy3kxfKprJWIzJh1X2HsAZpeMY3dVDq9Fjdn4IUc6cEUST0rgCvYMHNrSHoXX/s1600/IMG_0476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUzx-ARvBYQUC5KC_s5bGwmvhVE7c0yczT4jJ84FW8ZZpXXIXe4nl7KWdzkXyruQmiAFNPqo-Y-tGWyqzy3kxfKprJWIzJh1X2HsAZpeMY3dVDq9Fjdn4IUc6cEUST0rgCvYMHNrSHoXX/s1600/IMG_0476.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I then decided I wasn't in love with the au naturale wood tone of the drawer. Even though it's mostly hidden, you can see a bit of the edge and the front and I wanted to minimize its visibility by blending it in with its surroundings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_b4_EG0Pa99dv3atFSAXQtCiQwaCFyUWMh86jpknJ80zPwXF0TIp-_SGjfPONSADPWOnaBFxYvKuP7p5aKKLW0XUYLZQm6fuKeJ7rnUBCkMlPrEaych440qhOqrgB7zTs0uZ7HVIWiNa2/s1600/IMG_0477-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_b4_EG0Pa99dv3atFSAXQtCiQwaCFyUWMh86jpknJ80zPwXF0TIp-_SGjfPONSADPWOnaBFxYvKuP7p5aKKLW0XUYLZQm6fuKeJ7rnUBCkMlPrEaych440qhOqrgB7zTs0uZ7HVIWiNa2/s1600/IMG_0477-2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Out came the white paint.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNeu6bXr1bBU950f9OTD_3HmmFDxl1ZSckIAysVBSNSwjW2Q5I5MxxE7nrpOjX-4RHWA9SAyYDBZymxjgwzunmOJVaMEe6CxoZvup3a_M7ezoE68N8pg5x_Opb1p8-UEdhLHwHBKHsdhvn/s1600/IMG_0483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNeu6bXr1bBU950f9OTD_3HmmFDxl1ZSckIAysVBSNSwjW2Q5I5MxxE7nrpOjX-4RHWA9SAyYDBZymxjgwzunmOJVaMEe6CxoZvup3a_M7ezoE68N8pg5x_Opb1p8-UEdhLHwHBKHsdhvn/s1600/IMG_0483.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>Much better...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijC38fmL7TU6WHWqabkFnRVruk6fCloGS63_dzqovtskZLui9IVVD1SNua4GuzbVk7d9Z7x8TvuxufA5LksQtkBCrGxpv72cbbGCn3wNAz6d5r5SwIbE6mJnqKPmsCXtoi0GgAOekpDRiy/s1600/IMG_0484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijC38fmL7TU6WHWqabkFnRVruk6fCloGS63_dzqovtskZLui9IVVD1SNua4GuzbVk7d9Z7x8TvuxufA5LksQtkBCrGxpv72cbbGCn3wNAz6d5r5SwIbE6mJnqKPmsCXtoi0GgAOekpDRiy/s1600/IMG_0484.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Now it just looks like an extension of the desk. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaN-9pR1yPt4CppL-7MgzDJ7m0vr6ffYP3gCSgPcvpcj66l3oiSPWLZkQQq5SEt62Lz5whyphenhyphenAiK87icY-w4BPDow91ANEoLI26XPqdVGvSYjmzsuGBkkyncNJQ6qAHbWkq6zrKEsHXyqWw/s1600/IMG_0486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaN-9pR1yPt4CppL-7MgzDJ7m0vr6ffYP3gCSgPcvpcj66l3oiSPWLZkQQq5SEt62Lz5whyphenhyphenAiK87icY-w4BPDow91ANEoLI26XPqdVGvSYjmzsuGBkkyncNJQ6qAHbWkq6zrKEsHXyqWw/s1600/IMG_0486.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Can you spot the jumping cat?</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>That just about covers it for now. I was going to squeeze in a couple more projects but figured they were special enough to save for their own post next week.</div><div><br /></div><div>But I do want to share this awesome custom engraved sign I purchased on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SteelGooseMetalArt" target="_blank">Etsy</a>...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQyq8UFR9kWAkFIIhD5mn7htRzR-_adiuZTJAs4Q7vWvTnZBcy1RXE-vCOIKTdIPyUFgKSkpOPs7bIUowQoYovV-675nH5HyhI1Y84i8F7A-p5-AHJEpEtoUnwgOO898Zd0cvUKIMMOzK/s1600/IMG_0489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQyq8UFR9kWAkFIIhD5mn7htRzR-_adiuZTJAs4Q7vWvTnZBcy1RXE-vCOIKTdIPyUFgKSkpOPs7bIUowQoYovV-675nH5HyhI1Y84i8F7A-p5-AHJEpEtoUnwgOO898Zd0cvUKIMMOzK/s1600/IMG_0489.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This will be attached to the door. Love it!</div><div><br /><br />Up next I'll be sharing my final two projects before the big reveal <i>(hint: they involve words!)</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZacC7tIn3D42QdevPGKzPifT0k0OP5NupUrWBrlxisHS8yESOkB1cLrGDlbvQSulQxJQUZ2d_eWPXZvG7Y83xdGZlxwVyUi3REaEptsUAnbY4YekEKCHJagn9lXyEybYcAe4LQiNNQWcy/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZacC7tIn3D42QdevPGKzPifT0k0OP5NupUrWBrlxisHS8yESOkB1cLrGDlbvQSulQxJQUZ2d_eWPXZvG7Y83xdGZlxwVyUi3REaEptsUAnbY4YekEKCHJagn9lXyEybYcAe4LQiNNQWcy/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div>

Studio progress: The desk is done!

We're nearing the finish line with our office renovation, and we finally made it past the biggest hurdle with marking the workspace area...

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Spinach & Strawberry Salad with Walnuts

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGi-fdx1-x3W6FflvparP75jfHwmucTpKdKVd1FFcuuP_0yXKoaoVebN7BJwNtiOjzXFOSsEISqAl8MFD42fUgpWmPQBGam895KdMDkQVbvgx-WhH3Uiq_dz4zNQw-oGVRDJ9ADicCik/s1600/IMG_0448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGi-fdx1-x3W6FflvparP75jfHwmucTpKdKVd1FFcuuP_0yXKoaoVebN7BJwNtiOjzXFOSsEISqAl8MFD42fUgpWmPQBGam895KdMDkQVbvgx-WhH3Uiq_dz4zNQw-oGVRDJ9ADicCik/s640/IMG_0448.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is the recipe for the Spinach & Strawberry Salad that we made for the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/sugar-spice-baby-shower-at-our-house.html">"Sugar & Spice" Baby Shower last weekend</a> - it soooo good!  Enjoy!<br />............ <br /><br />Just in time for Mother's Day, this recipe comes courtesy of Mike's Mom, Joy.  When we first started dating Mike requested that I make this very salad - the <i>only</i> salad that he likes.  It really is one of the best salads - there something about the dressing that is so delicious... especially mixed with the sweet strawberries.  Thanks for sharing your recipe Joy!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoLrYEKKCuK8LrPIDmtoxkPK5ijFMsIonE9u-JK0RYbw-tWMrJb1YyhkGi0pfWeEUPYoNH6E0hBxDe6t0exYYyPzav3Q3PvRiIehCpzB2svdzd3lInNxKrKXpL0KDQGRRZzuOPAuFZAM/s1600/spin-salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoLrYEKKCuK8LrPIDmtoxkPK5ijFMsIonE9u-JK0RYbw-tWMrJb1YyhkGi0pfWeEUPYoNH6E0hBxDe6t0exYYyPzav3Q3PvRiIehCpzB2svdzd3lInNxKrKXpL0KDQGRRZzuOPAuFZAM/s400/spin-salad.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Best</i></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Spinach & Strawberry </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Salad </i></span><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fspinach-strawberry-salad-with-walnuts.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F--Gc9Ha-juts%2FUYhnpeJ36JI%2FAAAAAAAASN0%2FZImyuppB-Lk%2Fs400%2Fspin-salad.jpg&description=The%20Best%20Spinach%20%26%20Strawberry%20Salad"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br /><i>New! <a href="http://mad.ly/signups/118273/join"><span style="background-color: #f7f7f8;">Printable Recipes</span>, here.</a></i><br /><br />Spinach + Boston or Leaf Lettuce (your choice!)<br />1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced<br />1 cup shredded Monterrey Jack Cheese<br />1 cup toasted Walnuts<br /><br />Red Wine Vinegar Dressing <br />1/2 cup red wine vinegar<br />1 cup vegetable oil<br />1/2 cup sugar<br />2 cloves of garlic, minced<br />1/2 tsp salt<br />1/2 tsp paprika<br />1/4 tsp white pepper<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Spinach & Strawberry Salad with Walnuts

This is the recipe for the Spinach & Strawberry Salad that we made for the "Sugar & Spice" Baby Shower last weekend - it ...

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Sugar & Spice Baby Shower at Our House | Entertaining

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uehXn7hNJsfXP4EAkEtMsJ4MSchI2cZBYsGIn5GTUJ84PhEkTIrAqNCyijWID5qk39lCut-i9gBzipI26aH08SqeF8hCzDpMV1PxgpbySBP0n4EXWxI3WPw6rTGjSnW4hXFcWT55J_M/s1600/baby-shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uehXn7hNJsfXP4EAkEtMsJ4MSchI2cZBYsGIn5GTUJ84PhEkTIrAqNCyijWID5qk39lCut-i9gBzipI26aH08SqeF8hCzDpMV1PxgpbySBP0n4EXWxI3WPw6rTGjSnW4hXFcWT55J_M/s640/baby-shower.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fsugar-spice-baby-shower-at-our-house.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QUNUIShZ1xc%2FUYfhkP-QCXI%2FAAAAAAAASNQ%2F-5SeouLzOhc%2Fs1600%2Fgirl-baby-shower.jpg&description=Baby%20Girl%20Shower%20%7C%20Brunch%20Menu%2C%20Peonies%20%26%20Mini%20Pies"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />I'm sorry I was gone most of last week, we had a very busy and fun schedule packed with a volunteer table design benefit, visit to a childrens' farmstead and a baby shower hosted at our house... I have a zillion photos to share this week...  as Emma would say, "Here go!" - a complete sentence in baby language.<br /><br />Last things first, I just can't wait to share the photos from the Baby Shower Brunch I hosted at our house yesterday.  My friend, Susan, is pregnant with twin girls so a very girly, "Sugar, Spice & Everything Nice" shower was in order.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk3Jga-fHwaF6gC1gdO0Kl1BABnwn1CSiI7dOHoc0QUyopQGp22mEQa4Q9qIA6oj3JMjB9Mzh3Jv0vOV-JoXkp1hJGu63xFsfNgMlKOXm-72vM2LF_jJxSq0I0kVj-a5y7B1d9bYIEENc/s1600/IMG_0481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk3Jga-fHwaF6gC1gdO0Kl1BABnwn1CSiI7dOHoc0QUyopQGp22mEQa4Q9qIA6oj3JMjB9Mzh3Jv0vOV-JoXkp1hJGu63xFsfNgMlKOXm-72vM2LF_jJxSq0I0kVj-a5y7B1d9bYIEENc/s640/IMG_0481.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 love <a href="http://www.minted.com/product/baby-shower-invitations/MIN-67Y-BSH/rustic-ribbons-and-flora">these invitations from Minted</a>.  It really is the only way to go for custom invitations for a small number of guests.  I'm still enjoying these "Angel" peonies today as I type - my very favorite.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrL2WQ68CAKuD-BQJTTrKSVbVxcJMNdwUXKOzOtCWgkyy6Ho2p4q4fKxPdWmNHTSDkseQhRBHo2QAOFyp2nOgrhBL9GRH47A6fepyydcGAdflYOG8K4Hf4ZL57f4H4cykTpHRDN0Boa34/s1600/IMG_0356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrL2WQ68CAKuD-BQJTTrKSVbVxcJMNdwUXKOzOtCWgkyy6Ho2p4q4fKxPdWmNHTSDkseQhRBHo2QAOFyp2nOgrhBL9GRH47A6fepyydcGAdflYOG8K4Hf4ZL57f4H4cykTpHRDN0Boa34/s640/IMG_0356.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fsugar-spice-baby-shower-at-our-house.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QUNUIShZ1xc%2FUYfhkP-QCXI%2FAAAAAAAASNQ%2F-5SeouLzOhc%2Fs1600%2Fgirl-baby-shower.jpg&description=Baby%20Girl%20Shower%20%7C%20Brunch%20Menu%2C%20Peonies%20%26%20Mini%20Pies"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />Before each event I host, I make these types of little sketches to help me envision what everything will look like.  It also helps me make my shopping list because I'm able to figure out what I'll need for linens, props and styling before the actual setup.<br /><br />Because I tend to entertain in a very casual fashion (because I think everyone enjoys it more than fancy...), I designed the party to be special with plenty of flowers and girly touches, but relaxed with big bountiful platters of help-yourself food and drink and comfortable seating.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58NEE5-vePVizAZZm5uq1tTVJ7X-U2ngB390N068_LdWFQyJH6gLAxLsgTbN74BpbhBW2PPW716ayCoMfclisyNybPwQVrPLrGqpuT1dROOEaRNM7YImpBq-EmCYjAkAodzipNyjwV30/s1600/IMG_0406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58NEE5-vePVizAZZm5uq1tTVJ7X-U2ngB390N068_LdWFQyJH6gLAxLsgTbN74BpbhBW2PPW716ayCoMfclisyNybPwQVrPLrGqpuT1dROOEaRNM7YImpBq-EmCYjAkAodzipNyjwV30/s640/IMG_0406.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;"> The night before I always set out everything I possibly can for the next day... especially in a brunch situation.  Hosting a party can go from fun to stressful if everything is rushed and left to the last minute.  I definitely learned this the hard way during my catering days.  I found that it took all of the fun out of my job if I was running late and rushing through everything.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeT385TZEMyD44rYLazQGKOWB1HSAKcyo-JP53Iadk5puezbAlRwkbQaOzqarhjjGzCsZjiyw1azXPxInb69nbULkuSQxLWLZ4gkRYcCya0nYKCCk4reWmkT9qk71otlok9JLX3aTLsUY/s1600/IMG_0404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeT385TZEMyD44rYLazQGKOWB1HSAKcyo-JP53Iadk5puezbAlRwkbQaOzqarhjjGzCsZjiyw1azXPxInb69nbULkuSQxLWLZ4gkRYcCya0nYKCCk4reWmkT9qk71otlok9JLX3aTLsUY/s640/IMG_0404.jpg" width="434" /></a></div><br />I set this beverage table up in my kitchen - the table is usually used as my desk.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikGfvv8KBcvWttOEx-TvJSy49nm3iM3qqodR7URYLT4fit1CVAJwkqF8cjWBjybHi8-z8CKHM_t-zOIiSvSvx83djqZ72vtQFqhLP3tmVFzBRQWoCZlbJrbFS_ig9fj5nMHW2H94acIWw/s1600/IMG_0409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikGfvv8KBcvWttOEx-TvJSy49nm3iM3qqodR7URYLT4fit1CVAJwkqF8cjWBjybHi8-z8CKHM_t-zOIiSvSvx83djqZ72vtQFqhLP3tmVFzBRQWoCZlbJrbFS_ig9fj5nMHW2H94acIWw/s640/IMG_0409.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;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_cACRrpsNAUc_ZMhqZ1rKNY7fd90i2WMzA7rj-nRyC3qzqDjzOimrtGGe1Do4HWT-zmTh8VoAKbGgm-0kW4725ry4EcwrcMo4xTDScXEQB4L6tSOtR_yCRzz28VOCemq6ZasTMAxEQw/s1600/IMG_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_cACRrpsNAUc_ZMhqZ1rKNY7fd90i2WMzA7rj-nRyC3qzqDjzOimrtGGe1Do4HWT-zmTh8VoAKbGgm-0kW4725ry4EcwrcMo4xTDScXEQB4L6tSOtR_yCRzz28VOCemq6ZasTMAxEQw/s640/IMG_0410.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I also made the Sweetie Pie favors the night before.  Each bag contained either a Mini Apple or Strawberry Pie.  <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/mini-sweetie-pie-favors.html">Here is the link to the Mini Pies step-by-step instructions and recipes</a>!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilh1fqcXKzEqdmvnp0PR-3s6Akq9urL55XpCF_PN2fQ03lUaNpVz366vwAWy8oIQWoIcInZscC-gXH6QXVuD7P1_19FJvtHKS5q8bxfVl-nFL5NW6jWbF4TEibz1A2mNjdf13nsHFAUoI/s1600/IMG_0395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilh1fqcXKzEqdmvnp0PR-3s6Akq9urL55XpCF_PN2fQ03lUaNpVz366vwAWy8oIQWoIcInZscC-gXH6QXVuD7P1_19FJvtHKS5q8bxfVl-nFL5NW6jWbF4TEibz1A2mNjdf13nsHFAUoI/s640/IMG_0395.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;"> Here are the Strawberry Pies - I'll share the step-by-step and recipe later this week.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">UPDATE : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/mini-sweetie-pie-favors.html">Here is the link to the Mini Pies step-by-step instructions and recipes</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3yauT_5NUKUnecuchGOi9ylQTn2R9JIu26yedSYPUcLGXei9vGPeWz-CbELbyle2RgyJhaVRX0O-cCwzQgyVqmoXXeLUvILTXLK1yMS5ATaPnlkG5n2AWH4gZxV3UzBvqBDBcqvqA3Q/s1600/IMG_0422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3yauT_5NUKUnecuchGOi9ylQTn2R9JIu26yedSYPUcLGXei9vGPeWz-CbELbyle2RgyJhaVRX0O-cCwzQgyVqmoXXeLUvILTXLK1yMS5ATaPnlkG5n2AWH4gZxV3UzBvqBDBcqvqA3Q/s640/IMG_0422.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Here is the dining room setup.  Because it was going to be a small casual brunch, we left he seating open - a fix a plate and "make yourself at home" type party.  To make the banners, I use the<a href="http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-5427492-10761760?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paper-source.com%2Fcgi-bin%2Fpaper%2Fitem%2FRifle-Botanicals-Garlands%2F2710_029%2F9781452109619.html%3Futm_source%3DCJ%26utm_medium%3Daffiliate%26utm_campaign%3Dproduct&cjsku=9781452109619" target="_top">Rifle Botanicals Garlands</a><img border="0" height="1" src="http://www.lduhtrp.net/image-5427492-10761760" width="1" /> I found at Paper-Source... only $16 and took just minutes to hang.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVj17kuQ61d3QOKZSVVLoNU79g4Z87ycrIFuogwDM9Iapk7qF6ON3ajlOmSbs5xHqKYxJHNs3VCEnEQjh3N8zw5OXfH1_fJjC5WCFfrQrOs5jCDuenmDta9xxRCUmxb1xQ3homwoKUhE/s1600/IMG_0425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVj17kuQ61d3QOKZSVVLoNU79g4Z87ycrIFuogwDM9Iapk7qF6ON3ajlOmSbs5xHqKYxJHNs3VCEnEQjh3N8zw5OXfH1_fJjC5WCFfrQrOs5jCDuenmDta9xxRCUmxb1xQ3homwoKUhE/s640/IMG_0425.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'm obsessed with these - still haven't taken them down.  I plan to do one with E-M-M-A in her room later this week... and I might hang the "Sugar & Spice" one in there, too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq63k6SxYbDBlUNet8sl5Sdx4jPjf1mhJxk-n8V5niB7y281hWsY_zOgSbw2vqZQi-hX99FszWqVdbnX_9WI-SvqH-tx1ynwSo0kOLVZc8B1It3VqTrUdFFsX6nydrlP7M5GmgrCP64kU/s1600/IMG_0427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq63k6SxYbDBlUNet8sl5Sdx4jPjf1mhJxk-n8V5niB7y281hWsY_zOgSbw2vqZQi-hX99FszWqVdbnX_9WI-SvqH-tx1ynwSo0kOLVZc8B1It3VqTrUdFFsX6nydrlP7M5GmgrCP64kU/s640/IMG_0427.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I really like casual centerpieces like this.  Everyone asked if I cut these from my garden - exactly what I want people to think.    <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqs8efLv1CS-bhkGIrIIkkX3wOug3LgfE1T41e4QCnHcJyNscJqkkD5uVC2JfeaJda3sCxeVBnOSe6myrSh33WOYeVUfPgQr_buD7PMKo0Sij3zQ5uf_PbqLPkcZQs99PFdxVEiip-nBk/s1600/IMG_0433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqs8efLv1CS-bhkGIrIIkkX3wOug3LgfE1T41e4QCnHcJyNscJqkkD5uVC2JfeaJda3sCxeVBnOSe6myrSh33WOYeVUfPgQr_buD7PMKo0Sij3zQ5uf_PbqLPkcZQs99PFdxVEiip-nBk/s640/IMG_0433.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;"> But, no unfortunately I don't have any peony bushes in my garden... yet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The pewter pieces are Match (wedding gifts), and the glass pieces are old candy apothecary jars.  I also placed some wrapped gifts for Susan amongst the flowers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOnPOxT28ZKgTrX2cAM6NIE8H108RudtCQ8u74a6XOnfMWZ1QBDZzSwYioNAhpXHRT2rxVFNMDiCrD_jiBF4nj-tvfmj8Z8nUocxN0ByzrDUNArf5mZ3WXDAykZTstNXOUgY0i0bxckYc/s1600/IMG_0417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOnPOxT28ZKgTrX2cAM6NIE8H108RudtCQ8u74a6XOnfMWZ1QBDZzSwYioNAhpXHRT2rxVFNMDiCrD_jiBF4nj-tvfmj8Z8nUocxN0ByzrDUNArf5mZ3WXDAykZTstNXOUgY0i0bxckYc/s640/IMG_0417.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />More uses for the <a href="http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-5427492-10761760?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paper-source.com%2Fcgi-bin%2Fpaper%2Fitem%2FRifle-Botanicals-Garlands%2F2710_029%2F9781452109619.html%3Futm_source%3DCJ%26utm_medium%3Daffiliate%26utm_campaign%3Dproduct&cjsku=9781452109619" target="_top">Rifle Botanicals Garlands</a> - I couln't help myself.  Easy Banners = Insta-Party<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8ZucAmeqnsg9TOjaPTjCnvIFY0F3EvxzgPm3Wbf0Evi7GxZrjyvs-wQ87IE5M8djuFISuwg39Wb4IiIycLv8AWOe_FLqEZCf3F5s8ix8hkYFPAdlefAyasE-KoFPD3pCr-fQXQd00eU/s1600/IMG_0416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8ZucAmeqnsg9TOjaPTjCnvIFY0F3EvxzgPm3Wbf0Evi7GxZrjyvs-wQ87IE5M8djuFISuwg39Wb4IiIycLv8AWOe_FLqEZCf3F5s8ix8hkYFPAdlefAyasE-KoFPD3pCr-fQXQd00eU/s640/IMG_0416.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMLQwtbSroBhyphenhyphenxI33zvTg5xXrGfLkIyf4IML6ZpgSRcl4YDUqUgrF7dTHxxYXEZfXg5plgpGyZUuoAEPvzTKn097-x3pk_jNMSkqIrCX58ZXCi17Hd1BTfMpGTI9LOhcMproc5Gg1sGY/s1600/IMG_0455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMLQwtbSroBhyphenhyphenxI33zvTg5xXrGfLkIyf4IML6ZpgSRcl4YDUqUgrF7dTHxxYXEZfXg5plgpGyZUuoAEPvzTKn097-x3pk_jNMSkqIrCX58ZXCi17Hd1BTfMpGTI9LOhcMproc5Gg1sGY/s640/IMG_0455.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;">Last one...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtr5YuMlpY24jIVK-OP4K77959yJ7uTVjoe2FsQIR6usc8pDKzPHWQ144SGBnK1OSAa-4xXeYtvRFpL5-OO3y-Q2krPVmbavHN8ZCaYXj63wZ6Pi32wZcSCS1QrGZ_VqXlekT26mJ5tMU/s1600/IMG_0444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtr5YuMlpY24jIVK-OP4K77959yJ7uTVjoe2FsQIR6usc8pDKzPHWQ144SGBnK1OSAa-4xXeYtvRFpL5-OO3y-Q2krPVmbavHN8ZCaYXj63wZ6Pi32wZcSCS1QrGZ_VqXlekT26mJ5tMU/s640/IMG_0444.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Here is the beverage bar setup the morning of - Bellini's and Coffee.  We also had Sparkling Pomegranite Juice for the pregnant ladies... we had four out of ten guests that were pregnant!  Five babies and ten ladies.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-FsH71YpgrCLng-2qJ43ccOz-5giTFQTsh80SejVFjNisnaJX3wkrP3vYBgmGY6EhlJTSiO2kZepUSOofHbgm439SNa6Q7zGTEgEuhN9B89z1p0r4fZmG7OsbqtbSfcNLEMZZvzRTEE/s1600/IMG_0437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-FsH71YpgrCLng-2qJ43ccOz-5giTFQTsh80SejVFjNisnaJX3wkrP3vYBgmGY6EhlJTSiO2kZepUSOofHbgm439SNa6Q7zGTEgEuhN9B89z1p0r4fZmG7OsbqtbSfcNLEMZZvzRTEE/s640/IMG_0437.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /> Stations make it so much easier for your guests to help themselves - I think it makes everyone more comfortable.<i><br /></i><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiz0Eb11KH9iBdGUvEnpag04CVYycKtCxcCAtD-ufH-gKGpj90skdCmFOUBj0L930YKTuI9lCv5MY-dXgjXfY8d6jKudzsrzUsYH6joE5BvY4Hst5dHSX8bIVJ-xN51BvXP0UOQA9PKYU/s1600/IMG_0441.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiz0Eb11KH9iBdGUvEnpag04CVYycKtCxcCAtD-ufH-gKGpj90skdCmFOUBj0L930YKTuI9lCv5MY-dXgjXfY8d6jKudzsrzUsYH6joE5BvY4Hst5dHSX8bIVJ-xN51BvXP0UOQA9PKYU/s640/IMG_0441.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />Bellini is a drink with Peach Puree (or juice) topped with Champagne or Prosecco.  I think it must be the "new" mimosa. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggwoMqnBHiz8zUU5Hixqya6NBlIrknoU2lcBqaeRi4Vx_I3mlwz-f9buiI8IHIqAcx1xMPnz5j8zuhJF7ErY3EIEhf3AIUb-CN54YA0UtoSnaralNHHr6gEE-wwOZrl9Ee7G89DAINGOE/s1600/IMG_0445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggwoMqnBHiz8zUU5Hixqya6NBlIrknoU2lcBqaeRi4Vx_I3mlwz-f9buiI8IHIqAcx1xMPnz5j8zuhJF7ErY3EIEhf3AIUb-CN54YA0UtoSnaralNHHr6gEE-wwOZrl9Ee7G89DAINGOE/s640/IMG_0445.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Brunch Menu... </i></span><br /><i>recipe links coming later this week!</i><br /><br /><i>Upon arrival : </i><br /><br />Bellini's <br />Coffee<br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/05/vanilla-bean-scones.html">Mini Vanilla Bean Scones (we called "Sugar & Spice Scones)</a><br /><i>Brunch :</i><br /><br />Cheddar & Chive Quiche<br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/spinach-strawberry-salad-with-walnuts.html">Strawberry & Spinach Salad </a><br />Fruit & Cheese Platters<br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/my-breakfast-recipes/">"Homemade" Cinnamon Rolls</a><br /><br /><i>Favors : </i><br />Tiny Mini Pies - "Sweetie Pies" <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBjY61JkAivBqDMExW5DUo8WscE7YwSSKwgT25FTyL7fgclL0DqpkXLmFYo1TLQKsJ8-SCzxFgnF469aklyuCjwTD4ERLLosZn9XU6MKvmBdkRqFhuLRHk4JHa3_FfHmmiNmyPL60vHI/s1600/vanilla+scones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBjY61JkAivBqDMExW5DUo8WscE7YwSSKwgT25FTyL7fgclL0DqpkXLmFYo1TLQKsJ8-SCzxFgnF469aklyuCjwTD4ERLLosZn9XU6MKvmBdkRqFhuLRHk4JHa3_FfHmmiNmyPL60vHI/s640/vanilla+scones.jpg" width="616" /></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://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/05/vanilla-bean-scones.html">Mini Vanilla Bean Scones (we called "Sugar & Spice Scones) </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Forgive the re-used photo from original post... I didn't have my camera out when the girls arrived and the fresh scones came out.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYb-9zr4KmD5z3uXJy32OFJtLwim9BffD34MJEFKbEdWpwghvVcA4dejEJchKgdzby1qCjNlBmbUI4akvpwN0MY3SIh7aqupo3I67uiqrg1F2W31EEGhuhWT7nJNiKuEgoSw6jGJO-Rh0/s1600/IMG_0448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYb-9zr4KmD5z3uXJy32OFJtLwim9BffD34MJEFKbEdWpwghvVcA4dejEJchKgdzby1qCjNlBmbUI4akvpwN0MY3SIh7aqupo3I67uiqrg1F2W31EEGhuhWT7nJNiKuEgoSw6jGJO-Rh0/s640/IMG_0448.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/spinach-strawberry-salad-with-walnuts.html">The BEST Strawberry & Spinach Salad. </a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VeaPNiSbabWh_a2B3vCv8vGqShnmbeVwPDV9RmI0jTUG3Q3o5Zql_XfxT9c6NEbPKGdBWcK2csqCGuT8yLtsBTFeLp_CjkEouR3SJge8KsKNDq04NcGvW_ltrgMkW-FhiNhrRNZ8BWs/s1600/IMG_0449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VeaPNiSbabWh_a2B3vCv8vGqShnmbeVwPDV9RmI0jTUG3Q3o5Zql_XfxT9c6NEbPKGdBWcK2csqCGuT8yLtsBTFeLp_CjkEouR3SJge8KsKNDq04NcGvW_ltrgMkW-FhiNhrRNZ8BWs/s640/IMG_0449.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Bountiful fruit platter made by my Co-Hostess, Melissa. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmSYJUZzeZ1Nrol8Ugn9_6ZQ4G4q7TwUKPzt6p_1lUBBH2UE9Iej8bCJfONH6AJKU5Pr3tAeK8fU-uQpsxgI9JefP0EMwN8W_m_nIURr1xdnjKOEwBeNCAJMwNVIqF-kF_pBw9dnXGz5M/s1600/IMG_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmSYJUZzeZ1Nrol8Ugn9_6ZQ4G4q7TwUKPzt6p_1lUBBH2UE9Iej8bCJfONH6AJKU5Pr3tAeK8fU-uQpsxgI9JefP0EMwN8W_m_nIURr1xdnjKOEwBeNCAJMwNVIqF-kF_pBw9dnXGz5M/s640/IMG_0450.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2010/01/recipes-brunch-quiche-recipes.html">Cheddar Chive Quiche</a> (warning : old post from my sister's baby shower I hosted 3+ years ago!)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDo7nyu1oVkbjERwg7oQi2N-urmFwXFLeUjhVtvQzNzB3_wplHTULGYQqgmPajsMZz5n7b9pd67FePdxGJdGjqPpSJC0olKVCJaQq2ByJDmke4y5_bv7GkRsv9l9IjrV4sqCXogeQ6t3w/s1600/cin-rolls-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDo7nyu1oVkbjERwg7oQi2N-urmFwXFLeUjhVtvQzNzB3_wplHTULGYQqgmPajsMZz5n7b9pd67FePdxGJdGjqPpSJC0olKVCJaQq2ByJDmke4y5_bv7GkRsv9l9IjrV4sqCXogeQ6t3w/s640/cin-rolls-2.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;"> <a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/my-breakfast-recipes/">"Homemade" Cinnamon Rolls</a> (re-used photo from original post)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6OuzFf2O7R75uG1cAjAUexhMAFgEJpPTPR0-uS0heuPlimVQiCfW_2Z2H_6fg8huMCRcLx6RYgWp8Ktw1D-2izu1NYQHtVbJTdTk2-A3-MFWcaOzzOpXqy82l-WgptpOAQDnCnm6uv9o/s1600/IMG_0456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6OuzFf2O7R75uG1cAjAUexhMAFgEJpPTPR0-uS0heuPlimVQiCfW_2Z2H_6fg8huMCRcLx6RYgWp8Ktw1D-2izu1NYQHtVbJTdTk2-A3-MFWcaOzzOpXqy82l-WgptpOAQDnCnm6uv9o/s640/IMG_0456.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I was so glad to host the shower for Susan at my house - I can't wait to meet those little ladies in just a couple of months!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjwUTfg6NXhHwfGhxQrfSLCi8xjdGjLIBJEl4j0U0ZTAWOoCGgWnqMf-M2ZqykHkr4amoJVR2Uz6No2PNwikfMDz1kROBTm0HEd4NyodK5KDr7RyXDzaBaHIBHYKKC1rTAP20VAQdx0Y/s1600/girl-baby-shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjwUTfg6NXhHwfGhxQrfSLCi8xjdGjLIBJEl4j0U0ZTAWOoCGgWnqMf-M2ZqykHkr4amoJVR2Uz6No2PNwikfMDz1kROBTm0HEd4NyodK5KDr7RyXDzaBaHIBHYKKC1rTAP20VAQdx0Y/s1600/girl-baby-shower.jpg" /></a></div>Here is the easy-to-pin strip!<br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fsugar-spice-baby-shower-at-our-house.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QUNUIShZ1xc%2FUYfhkP-QCXI%2FAAAAAAAASNQ%2F-5SeouLzOhc%2Fs1600%2Fgirl-baby-shower.jpg&description=Baby%20Girl%20Shower%20%7C%20Brunch%20Menu%2C%20Peonies%20%26%20Mini%20Pies"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Sugar & Spice Baby Shower at Our House | Entertaining

I'm sorry I was gone most of last week, we had a very busy and fun schedule packed with a volunteer table design benefit, visit to a chi...

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