Winder and Main {LBP}

new tabs, buttons, and a pretty barn.

2012-02-17T16:40:00.003-05:00

There's a new tab up there. You can now access my Etsy store from there. I have added buttons on that page for the different shop sections. The buttons are also on the right side of the blog too. Go ahead click them and take a look around, I dare you! As always I love creating custom orders so if you see something you like but it's just not quite right let me know and together we can create something just for you!

And because I can't have a post without a picture and because all my thoughts lately have all been with my ENTIRE family on both my mom's and dad's side up in Vermont, here is a red barn that reminds me of Vermont's endless countryside.

Source: themeadowbrookblog.blogspot.com via Meg on Pinterest

It's hard losing people, especially when they are family.

Source: peasinourpod.com via Meg on Pinterest

Spend time with your loved ones this weekend and call a family member who you don't get to see often enough due to distance, or anything else. You never know when fate won't let you anymore.

~Meg

remembering how little your kids were... in the future.

2012-02-16T12:39:00.005-05:00

After much debate and persuasion from hubby I've decided to create a few more of these growth rulers and list them in the shop. I first posted about the one I created for our home here.

I think they are the perfect gift to families of little ones or even first time expectant parents who are anticipating watching their new little one grow. Each one is stained in walnut and hand painted. We love ours not only for the look but also so we can track how big our kids gets, or how little they once were, and since we move around a lot it is the perfect solution for us instead of leaving measurements behind on walls and moldings of places we once lived.

There is already hardware attached to the back of each one so it's ready for hanging once it arrives!

Go here to see them and shop.

~Meg

Are you a Beatrix Potter fan?

2012-02-08T17:42:00.003-05:00

New in the shop!

Beatrix Potter story book frames, made using a page from one of his vintage story books.

One would be perfect as a baby shower gift or to put out for Easter decor. You can find them here.

~Meg

let's talk lighting.

2012-02-07T10:05:00.004-05:00

My sister and her husband are in the "picking out all the fixtures and details" stage of their house building so I've been looking at a lot of lights lately to help them decide what would be best for them. Here are some that caught my eye:

Source: lowes.com via Meg on Pinterest

This one is a little more traditional but would work well with the design plan throughout the house.

Source: lowes.com via Meg on Pinterest

Love the unique shade shape on this one:

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

Love the mix of the 2 finishes on this one.

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

I can picture this light hanging in a kitchen with a wall of windows and a view of a green garden:

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

Of course the school house pendant is a classic and always at the top of my list:

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

I think this would look great hanging as a pair in a long hallway.

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

This would make a great entryway light:

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

As well as this, and also in a hallway again hanging as a pair:

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

A little more modern but it has a classic style to it:

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

This one would be fun hanging in an entry:

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

I've been obsessed with the Movarian light for a long time, I think since I first spotted them in a PB catalog. I found one at a garage sale so I purchased it, before I could hang it, it was crushed by hubby while moving things around in the garage.

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

Another classic and elegant looking light for an entry:

Source: homedepot.com via Meg on Pinterest

And I love this for a bathroom vanity.

Source: shadesoflight.com via Meg on Pinterest

You can find their original sources below each light and on my Pinterest page. I'll keep you updated with what we pick.

~Meg

*I would love to help you create a home that you love. Email me at WinderandMain@gmail.com or visit the Decorating Services tab above.

guest room re-do sneak peak.

2012-02-06T13:31:00.004-05:00

I got the urge to change up the guest room nook. When we moved into this house I put the same pillows that were on the bed at the last house but didn't really finish it yet. I searched through my fabric stash and found some coordinating fabrics. Here's a sneak peak. I'm hoping I'll be able to show you a full reveal by the end of the week.

The white and blue fabric is Annie Selke and the floral is a Nautica fabric by Robert Allen, purchased years ago. I guess I'm going blue... stay tuned!

~Meg

chevron art work.

2012-02-02T10:48:00.015-05:00

When I showed you my drop leaf table chalkpaint project I mentioned that I needed some kind of artwork on the wall. After seeing this piece in this home I decided that would be the perfect solution to the bald spot I had going on behind the table and lamp.

Here's how I did it:

You'll need a canvas the size you wish your art to be {mine is 16x20 and wrapped, picked up at a craft store}

Paint in your color choice, {I mixed some light grey with white to make it even lighter}

a pen

paintbrush

some cardboard the same width of your canvas

a razor blade

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
To make life easier I created a stencil template for my chevron stripes. I began by deciding how spaced out I wanted my "peaks" to be. I made it easy and went for 4 of them and marked on the cardboard edge 4 marks spaced 4" apart. Does that make sense? {measure from the perimeter of your cardboard 4", mark, then another 4",mark, and so on until I had no more room left}.

Then I decided I wanted my stripes to be 3" in width. So I measured 3" down from the top on both sides and made a reference line. Then measured 3" down from both the marks I had first made {the peaks}, and every 2 inches from those first marks. Then I used a straight edge and connected my marks to make a zigzag. I began the second zig zag line {to create the full chevron stripe}, at the same line as my "bottom peak", {hence why we measured 3" down from the peak earlier}. Am I confusing you yet? Here's what it looked like after everything was measured, marked, and connected. Just make sure you keep the same measurements throughout if you want it perfectly even.

Then use a razor blade and cut your template out. It should fit just right onto your canvas.

Now you can begin tracing the stripe onto your canvas. Because I only measured for the chevron to be equal with my canvas width ways, I had to raise my "peaks" off the edge of the canvas to begin my first stripe so that the bottom and top could be even looking, {you'll see in the next picture}. After you trace one stripe. Measure 3 inches down from a top peak and make a mark. That is where you will place your stencil to trace the next stripe.

Here is what it looked like after it was all traced out. See how my top and bottom "run off" the canvas? If I had began the top chevron evenly with the perimeter it would have left the bottom uneven and running off majorly by itself. I believe after measuring it I found that starting my peak 2 1/2" off of the canvas would leave me with the top and bottom symmetrical.

Once I decided what color I would paint it {it began green but I couldn't get the right green I had in mind so decided to go with grey instead}, this is what it looks like.

And since everything was picked up and put away I thought I take a picture and show you the area I'm looking to make a botanical collage... See how boring it is and needs something like yesterday!

I'll share more about the living room at a later date but thought I'd show you the area that's been bugging me most, it's almost there though!

~Meg

{linked to some of these parties below}

January memoirs.

2012-02-01T09:30:00.005-05:00

I thought I would try a little something different this year at the end of each month {yeah I know it's feb 1st already, a day late}, I've been seeing others do it and thought it's a good idea so why not try it out as well.

Here's a look back at January here on the blog:

I shared my new obsession with wire baskets here, as well as some great sources if you're looking for some for your home.

Source: southernliving.com via Meg on Pinterest

Also my love of botanical art here, I'm still in search for the perfect pieces for over our sofa.

Source: hautemamasfaves.tumblr.com via Meg on Pinterest

I showed you my first project with Annie Sloan's chalkpaint, old white of course, here. There was also a sneak peak in there of the next project I hope to finish, maybe today.

I showed you the final finished silhouette project I did for my mom's 2nd guest room a while ago, and how upholstery tacks added that finishing touch, here.

Talk and plans about the boys' bunk room went on here.

And the two biggest events here on the blog were the announcement of reaching for my dreams of becoming an interior designer here, and showing you some of the recent room designs I've done lately, an elegant french cottage living room here, a Sex and the City inspired bedroom here, and a farmhouse living room in the city here. I also have a new tab up above with information about my decorating services.

And finally the change from Little Blue Prints to Winder and Main here.

Last but not least don't forget the giveaway going on over at Everyday Clever for one of my bloomie necklaces. They are perfect for your spring outfit's finishing touch. The giveaway ends soon so hurry on over and put your name in the bucket!

What do I have in store for February? Hopefully to finish the Boys' bunk room, begin on the storage issue for the playroom/guestroom, and find some botanical art and frames for the living room. We'll see what I can accomplish with that! Welcome February!

~Meg

*if you're in need of some decorating help with your home go here for more information or email me at WinderandMain@gmail.com.

coco chalkpaint project sneak peek and plans for the bunk room.

2012-01-30T00:00:00.002-05:00

A little over a week ago I finished another chalkpaint project. You can find the first one here. Our crib was looking a bit beat up, can you blame it after 3 boys. I figure it has at least another year and a half left with us {if no other babies come along}, and the way it was looking didn't go with my design plan for the bunk room. I decided it would look better painted AS's Coco. Here is a sneak peek of it.

It's actually a lot darker than the pictures show but because of the light this room gets and the fact that the crib is in front of the only window I can't really get an exact picture of the color. Once I finish this little corner of the room I'll share the entire after with you. {it used to be white, you can see it here, and was beat up with many teeth marks from our oldest when it was his. I painted it and distressed it lightly to hide any new scuff marks that will eventually come to it}.

My plans to finish the room contain these:

A little Jack and a pop of red in it,

Source: time-worn-style.com via Meg on Pinterest

And I'm still debating on the kind of big boy bedding the crib will be dressed with when it's made into the toddler bed. It's between some classic ticking stripe in either the blue or a chocolate:

Source: houzz.com via Meg on Pinterest

Or a simple cream colored quilt with a brown blanket at the foot of the bed {which we already own} similar to this look:

Source: Uploaded by user via Meg on Pinterest

Or the brown and cream star bedding from PB,

Source: hollymathisinteriors.com via Meg on Pinterest

You can see the bedding here, that the big boys have on their beds already and I love it so the littlest's big boy bedding has to coordinate with it.

Some curtains are still on the waiting list, and I would like to create a fun decorative mobile for over the crib {or course it wouldn't be in his reach and hung high enough so he can't destroy it}. I would love a rug but not sure if that will come this house or wait until later on.

Stay tuned to see how it all turns out, hopefully it will be sooner rather than later!

~Meg

Surprise!

2012-01-28T17:08:00.002-05:00

So you may notice something new lingering above. Not only is there a new header but after thinking long and hard for some time now I've decided to rename the blog. Winder and Main is a name I came up with that reflects the two places I grew up, Windermere, Fl, and summers in New England. I often find that most of my room designs contain a little bit of southern and new England influences in them. As of now I'm not too sure what changing the URL address will do so you can still find me at www.littleblueprints.blogspot.com. I don't know if changing it will still direct all of you to my site and give you updates in reader. Does anyone know if you're a follower and I change the address if you will still get updates or will it not read the blog anymore? I would like to change it to Winderandmain.blogspot.com but afraid to do so for that reason.

Anyway, I'm also going to be adding an additional page up there with information about decorating services. I'm not completely done with it yet but hopefully by the end of the weekend it will be up and running.

And so it's not a post without any pictures here are some pretty entryways, you know because I'm welcoming you to Winder and Main...

Source: hautemamasfaves.tumblr.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: mynottinghill.blogspot.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: dressdesigndecor.blogspot.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: myfavoriteandmybest.com via Meg on Pinterest

Welcome to Winder and Main! I hope you enjoy your stay and come back often!

~Meg

a farmhouse living room in the city.

2012-01-26T10:05:00.004-05:00

Today's shade of blue is robin's egg blue. That soft, green tinted blue that is often used in beach cottage designs. However in this design my client wanted a farmhouse look. While they currently live in the city they dream of living in the country, so in my design I wanted to bring the country to them.

They have an old home with great architectural details you don't see in new homes today. Their fireplace is the main focal point of the room so as art I thought a photo or painting of a countryside barn would be the perfect beginnings to their farmhouse in the city. It also would be where I would pull the colors from. Lots of texture through fabrics as well as some metal/industrial accessories will bring the cozy feel she wants for the room. She plans on doing a lot of DIY work for the room so I'm excited to hear about how her projects come out. I'll keep you updated as we make progress!

~Meg

*if you would like a personalized idea board for your home email me at WinderandMain@gmail.com rates.

a Sex and the City inspired blue bedroom.

2012-01-25T00:00:00.001-05:00

I mentioned in an earlier post a couple weeks ago that my sister and her new hubby just put a contract on a house they are building from the ground up. Anyway before the contract was finalized we began talking about decorating it. The first room we discussed was the master bedroom. She mentioned that she loved Carrie's bedroom in the Sex and the City 2 movie. I went on to find pictures of it. The thing she loved most was the color on the wall. Sort of a peacock/ electric blue color.

Source: hookedonhouses.net via Meg on Pinterest

Knowing my sister, and her new hubby, I knew that having that bold of a color on the walls for them would get old very soon. They're more neutral people with a pop of color here and there, but still soothing. Here is the design board I came up with for their master bedroom.

{again it's blurry, sorry}. I opted for a more soothing grey blue color on the walls, with the peacock blue on the headboard. Then we discussed putting in a four poster bed instead since she always wanted one so we're thinking that will come in to play instead and we'll use the peacock blue on an accent chair somewhere in the room. Carrie's bedroom had mismatched nightstands. I gave them mismatched nightstands as well, one a little feminine and the other a little more masculine. The other mismatched items in the room are lamps, and a collage wall of different frames filled with black and white photos from their wedding. Some new art and a few throw pillows will finish it off. While she loved the blue in Carrie's apartment, I knew the style was a bit too modern for her so I toned it down to give it a more modern cottage feel, a design she is more drawn to in inspiration photos and discussion. Again I'll keep you updated with the design, even though it won't be finished until sometime this summer, after the house is built, I can't wait to see it! {This is also a warning for lots of posts and discussions about their house progress and the finishes and details that are picked out for them and the house.}

See you tomorrow with another shade of blue and style to go along with it.

~Meg

*if you would like an idea board for your home please email me at WinderandMain@gmail.com for pricing.

an elegant french cottage living room design.

2012-01-24T08:42:00.005-05:00

Lately all the rooms I've been designing have incorporated blue in them, not because I want to add blue to every room I design, but because every person has asked for blue in their design. However everyone's blue they request happens to be different from the next one as well as the style and feel they want in their room. I thought I'd share a different one each day this week so you can the shades of blue and what style they help express in each design.

One of the designs I've been working on lately is for an elegant french cottage looking living room. My client mentioned she loves blue and white pottery so I used that as my inspiration.

{I tried making the board a bit bigger but now it's making it look a little blurry, sorry}. We are using mostly neutral pieces to help lighten and brighten the space with pops of blue throughout.

We've talked about adding some Bosporus in the brick colorway, to the room also.

The room has a really pretty fireplace with built in "window seating" on either side. As of right now there is only one window but there is talk of adding another window to the opposite side eventually. Some pretty blue fabric will be used for cushions on the bench and will be the main pop of cobalt blue in the living room area. A collage wall with family photos will flank the wall opposite of the fireplace in a variety of collected frames. She may even put her husband to work creating a piece of art for over the mantle, he built their tv cabinet and it's gorgeous!

I was so excited to design this room and can't wait to see it begin it's transformation! I'll keep you updated with it's changes!

~Meg

*if you'd like help with your home please email me at WinderandMain@gmail.com for pricing*

starting the week off with a giveaway.

2012-01-23T08:22:00.002-05:00

There's a giveaway going on over at Jenna's for one of my Bloomie Necklaces in whichever color you choose if you're the lucky winner.

It's the perfect accessory for spring this year. Go on over and visit Jenna at Everyday Clever to see how you could win one!

I'll be back later to let you know about what's on the schedule for this week and a sneak peak at the crib I painted in AS Coco, I'm so happy with how it turned out!

~Meg

my first chalkpaint experience.

2012-01-18T12:33:00.007-05:00

As I mentioned here, I received a very fun package in the mail the other day. I decided there were 3 pieces of furniture I wanted to paint and my black drop leaf table was one of them. This was my first experience with chalk paint, I'll give you my opinion of it at the bottom. For now here is what the table now looks like. I used old white with very little dark wax mixed with a lot of clear wax to seal it, then I sanded it like crazy for the distressed look.

Don't look too close or you'll notice my two toned slipcover. I'm in the process of making a slipcover for our small sofa and have the main body done, now I just need to finish the seat cushions. I also want to do something with that lampshade, maybe cover it in a fun colorful floral? And on the sofa is one of my Christmas presents.

Since I neglected to share any pictures from my sister's wedding back in October here is one she and her new hubby gifted us for Christmas of our family of 5. The boys wore vintage looking newsies outfits {you know from the musical}. It took place on a golf course so it was the perfect outfit for them. They were the hit of the wedding, sorry Carlie and Matt you know it's true!

And one of the first pins I ever pinned on Pinterest was of a painting technique using a rubberband around the can so you can wipe your brush on it instead of the can therefore leaving the can clean. Well I finally had a chance to use it... It worked wonderful! And I recommend it for your next painting project if you don't already do it. The little you do see on the rim was from me resting my brusk on top for breaks.

Ok so for my opinion on chalk paint. For a full coverage without any distressing I don't think it works well. That was what I wanted for this table but realized it just wasn't going to work. I then went the complete opposite and wanted a heavy distressed look for it, similar to my dresser here. For that the paint works really well. I think it gave it a much more natural and chippier look than regular paint. I think I'm definitely a wax girl now also instead of a poly girl for the finishing touch.

And there you have it, my first FINISHED project of 2012, I have others in the works that hopefully I will be able to post about soon.

~Meg

linked to some of these parties below:

botanical prints/plates.

2012-01-16T00:00:00.001-05:00

Maybe it's the chasing of spring but I'm really into botanical prints as art. I've been looking for some sort of art for over our sofa and I think this option just may win out.

Here are some of my favorites from Pinterest.

Source: theevolutionstore.com via Meg on Pinterest

I would choose to display them in a large collage, we have vaulted ceilings so there's a lot of space to fill in.

Source: midnightsunantiques.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: craftynest.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: dailydreamdecor.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: kellymcguill.blogspot.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: iwantthat.co.za via Meg on Pinterest

Source: littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: honeyandfitz.blogspot.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: housebeautiful.com via Meg on Pinterest

Even just one large over a dresser set up with a vignette looks amazing.

Source: Uploaded by user via Meg on Pinterest

I did a quick search and found prints like all of these above on Etsy, and Ebay. You can use botanical calendars for art too. You could also stalk you local thrift store for a vintage botanical book with plenty of colorful plates in them. They are the perfect accessory in a room for this spring {and a little earlier to help chase away the winter blues}.

If you have any other sources for vintage botanical plates I'd love to hear it, I'm kind of hooked now!

~Meg

chalk paint.

2012-01-13T09:15:00.003-05:00

Guess what came for me in the mail yesterday?

The day after my birthday I received an email that I had won one of the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint giveaways that had been going around during the holidays! What a great birthday present right? It took me a while to choose my colors but I finally did, old white and coco. So you know what I'll be doing this weekend!

I think I may have a helper too!

Happy weekend!

~Meg

upholstery tacks.

2012-01-12T00:00:00.002-05:00

A while back I shared this tutorial for how to create fabric silhouettes of your little ones. This project was done for some much needed art work in the boys room at my parent's house. When I began the project I planned to "frame" the canvases with upholstery tacks but while I was there my mom hadn't gotten any yet so I gave you an in progress shot of sorts. Well when I went back for Thanksgiving {yeah this post has been in waiting for a while} she had added the tacks. Here is what they look like now that they are 100% finished.

I think it finishes them off nicely instead of having a blank unframed look. I think this room is calling for more to be done to it so I'm sure I will be back with yet another updated look at what the room eventually becomes! {to see the entire tutorial go here}.

~Meg

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a new look for a new year for 3 of you!

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I shared my word of the year REACH and also shared how it was to help me reach for my dream. Since some time in college I've wanted to be an interior designer. I majored in psychology, I love the study of the mind almost as much as I love searching through fabrics. My school didn't offer design but I had planned on going to a nearby college that did offer it after I graduated with my psych degree. Well fate had other plans for me and I didn't go back to school after I graduated with my BA.

I thought I had lost out on my chances of ever becoming a decorator but the blog has taught me and encouraged me more than I thought it possibly could. I began following and reading bloggers who had become their own boss through their blog and were decorating clients homes without any formal education in the field of design. All they had were their natural talents and experience from creating inviting spaces in their own homes as well as for friends and family.

Technically I have been decorating and designing for 29 years. My mom tells a story that I once brought to her two of those rolling legos and some rubberbands after seeing some kids on Sesame Street roller skating. Now designing roller skates from legos doesn't have much to do with decorating interiors but it does show my creativity began at a young age, 18mos-2years probably?

I always wanted a say in what my bedroom looked like growing up. In college my roommates would always put me in charge of decorating our dorm and apartments. Since I've been married I've always strive to create a homey and comfortable home for my family. I've lived in 13 homes in 11 years, 14 homes if you include my dorm room one year in college. I decorated each one to suit my taste at the time and to be a comfy and welcoming place for family and guests. My sister has put me to work more than once in decorating her home, {they just recently put a contract on a house they are building and have enlisted me to take over full control of the interior spaces, woohoo!}.

Anyway I've decided that this year is the year that I'm really going to work at reaching my goal at becoming an interior decorator. So how can you help? No I'm not selling my work at the moment and asking that you hire me, I don't feel I'm there yet. But I am offering my help to 3 of you. I will create a personalized idea board for whichever room you decide on and if you have any other questions after that I will help you along the way. The only thing I ask of you is that you are seriously wanting a new look for your home, also you have to let me journal the design before and after on here.

So why am I doing this? Because I need more experience. I've had much experience decorating my own home and friends and family but I don't have experience working with non-family/friends. So I'm offering my services for free to the first 3 people who email me requesting help. {I'll add a note on here to update once I have received 3}. I'm hoping this will be the first big step to REACHing for my dream this year. Email me at littleblueprints3@gmail.com to bring in a new look for a new year in your home!

Whew that was a lot of rambling! Thanks for sticking through it all! I'm taking a giant leap and will be bringing you along on the journey. Wish me luck!

~Meg

reaching.

2012-01-10T13:13:00.004-05:00

So since the trend this year is not so much as making goals but instead finding a word to live out through the year, I thought I'd take a shot at it also. My word for 2012 is

REACH

I'm going to reach for my kids more to give them more hugs and kisses. I know in no time they will be too big and too cool to receive hugs and kisses from their mama, especially in public!

I'm going to reach for my hubby's help more this year. I often, all the time, try to do things all myself. Most of this is my control freak side. I like things done a certain way so I do everything myself to ensure it's done to my satisfaction. Otherwise I end up doing to all over again anyway... but this year I'm going to actually accept help. Although I probably still won't let anyone make the bed, yep control freak!

And my number one goal for this year is to REACH for my dreams. I have a dream that has been haunting me for over 7 years now. Lately I feel like it's been calling my name to do something about it. I actually had started this blog in hopes to conquer that dream but I haven't done pretty much anything else but that to reach for it. So this year I'm doing just that and reaching for my dream. Tomorrow I'll even share how you can be apart of my dream as well. {could I have said dream any more in one paragraph?}

Until then I will leave you with this picture because I hate having a post that's all words and no pretty.

Source: classics.tumblr.com via Meg on Pinterest

Doesn't it look like a dreamy path or river? I would love to one day do this in our yard... so pretty it reminds me of Vermont!

~Meg

wire baskets, my new obsession.

2012-01-05T08:46:00.003-05:00

Maybe it's because of the new year and time for re-organizing and clean slates but I'm in complete love with wire baskets for storage. Here are some of my favorites:

I need to figure out where I can find these ones, I think they are my absolute favorite design, the kitchen isn't too shabby either!

Source: southernliving.com via Meg on Pinterest

Source: simplyseleta.com via Meg on Pinterest

One day I'll have some in the bathrooms {on a side note, notice how even the trash in the trash basket matches the color scheme of the bathroom, details!}:

Source: pinterest.com via Ceri on Pinterest

Source: missmustardseed.com via Meg on Pinterest

And to organize all my crafts odds and ends, yep that's on the to do list this month:

Source: bing.com via Meg on Pinterest

I've been thinking about what I can add above the boys beds to help personalize each bunk space and I think I may add a place to store their favorite books, these baskets would help do the trick:

Source: babylifestyles.com via Meg on Pinterest

If you're craving some wire baskets for yourself also here are some choices...

From willowhouse.com, these are similar to the first picture I showed:

Source: store.willowhouse.com via Meg on Pinterest

From Ballarddesign.com theirs is a little different with 2 side by side and separated with a divider:

Source: ballarddesigns.com via Meg on Pinterest

And potterybarn.com's is similar to the vintage locker baskets that are so popular right now:

Source: potterybarn.com via Meg on Pinterest

I really like Wisteria.com's also. It has a vintage yet sturdy feel to it, if that makes sense:

Source: wisteria.com via Meg on Pinterest

A wire organizer was under the tree for me this Christmas and I love it. It's a triple vertical hanging one {found at HomeGoods if you're looking for one too}. I'm planning on using it in the office nook. When it's up and looking pretty I'll show you a picture. *Funny story, when it was wrapped and propped up against the wall it looked like a toboggan. I was wondering why someone would get me a toboggan living here in Florida. It has been pretty cold for us the last few days, like not getting out of the 40's. Winter is finally here! Too bad I'm so ready for spring now. Oh well.

Do you all have plans of getting organized this year? I do. I have lots of other plans too for the year, those of which I will share in a later post.

Happy New Year!

~Meg

happy holidays!

2011-12-27T08:37:00.004-05:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!! We have yet to celebrate. Presents are still wrapped and in hiding, and I have 2 refrigerators full of yummy uncooked food fit for a Christmas feast! The week before Christmas we had a very very unwelcome guest bust through our door, the flu! We just can't seem to get rid of it and are all still suffering from it in one way or another. We had no choice but to cancel the holiday and Christmas dinner we had planned for both sides of the family. We're shooting for a celebration on New Years day instead, if we can all get better by then. Anyway since I probably won't be on until next year I hope you all have a wonderful and healthy new year! See you in 2012!

~Meg

if a tree falls in the forest does it make a sound?

2011-12-17T20:50:00.005-05:00

... Because it does in our house. While I was in my room today I heard a crash, and then some crying/whelping/screaming. I ran out to find our tree flat on the ground and the littlest underneath it!

Just what I wanted to do, re-decorate the tree AGAIN! See that pile of cookie ornaments to the bottom left? I think the little one was pulling them all off the tree, like he does daily, and pulled too hard and the tree came crashing down on him. Luckily only one ornament broke and it wasn't a sentimental one, only one I had just made here. Better that than one of the 1st Christmases, our honeymoon starfish, or the guardian angel.

Thank you all for the sweet comments on our Holiday home. I got a lot of compliments on the star. It was never meant to be a tree topper. It's actually a metal barn star I picked up years ago for number 2's nursery. Last year I decoupaged it in book pages from a vintage Paddington's Day Out book. It hung in the boy's room at my in laws but has been sitting on the floor in our room since we moved to this home. It's mate found it's way to Goodwill but this one was forgotten about. So glad it was left behind. In the past we've always had a big red ribbon, in fact I don't think I've ever had a star on my tree even growing up. We always had the big red ribbon on top.

I think it may end up staying with the Christmas decor and be a new tradition each year. Hopefully the crashing down won't follow. I think we really need a new tree now after the crash, a couple of the branches are a bit limp and barely holding up with ornaments on them, yeah!!!

Hope your weekend is a bit less eventful in the Christmas tree department!

~Meg

Tis the Season. Day 12: our holiday home tour.

2011-12-12T13:00:00.002-05:00

It's finally Day 12 of Tis the Season!

Welcome to our home during the holidays! I'm so glad you could make it over for a little tour. Sit back with your mug of hot chocolate, listen to your favorite Christmas music, and enjoy...

The table is set for a holiday feast...

The family room is feeling cozy with the glow of the tree...

And all of the festive touches around...

Our special ornaments have been hung with care...

Christmas trees and holiday decor have been spread throughout each room... the boys bunk...

Their tree is full of their handmade ornaments and all the ornaments with their names...

Our room...

And even a little something for our guests...

Our countdown tree is filling up with ornaments...

And the little ones have been keeping an eye in the sky {just in case Santa and his reindeers are out for a test run}.

I hope y'all enjoyed the tour and even more I hope y'all have a wonderful holiday filled with love and laughter! I'm not sure how many more times I will be on before the end of the year but after the new year I will have some project followups for you and some news I hope you will find just as exciting as I do!

Did you miss the first 11 days of Tis the Season? No worries, just follow the links below!

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11

~Meg

{linked to some parties below}

Jennifer Rizzo's housewalk

Melissa's Christmas Open House

The Nester's Christmas Open House

Tis the Season, Day 11: it's all in the details.

2011-12-12T09:25:00.006-05:00

I know it's actually day 12 but here is day 11... yeah it makes sense!

I'm sure I've mentioned it before but we are neighbors with Mickey Mouse, as in about 10 min up the road from us. I love going to Disney with the boys. I consider Disney my second home growing up. My dad worked there for years {that's what brought my parents down from Vermont} and we used Disney and it's theme parks as our own playground. I was probably the youngest child to ever be dropped off at the Magic Kingdom with a friend all by ourselves for the day. We grew up knowing the ins and outs of Disney, my first job was even at Blizzard Beach, one of the 2 water parks on Disney property. Sadly my dad doesn't work there anymore so we don't get anymore free admissions, unless we hit up some of his former co-workers and friends to get us in, but my kids get the same enjoyment at Downtown Disney as they do in the parks. About a week ago I decided to bring the boys there for the day to see it decorated for Christmas. I love how Disney does Christmas. It's even more magical and fun walking around during this time of year. Depending on where you park, you more than likely to be greeted by this guy...

The mouse himself wears a Santa's hat this time of year and all of the planters have been filled with fresh poinsettias and other red colored flowers. This area is always so pretty! The flowers always look their best as if they are re-planted every night.

This day we were surprised to find that Mickey had a friend in town from the North Pole visiting with all of the children. {I don't ever remember him being there when I was growing up}.

You'll find his reindeer out back munching on ivy, and in other places throughout the area. They are much prettier than the grapevine reindeers you can buy in the stores. I loved the baby one looking up at his papa.

The detailing on the columns and the entire little covered area where Santa sat were amazing. Not sure how it was done either by burning or stain/painting.

The trees throughout were decked out in old fashioned wooden toys... the boys liked picking out their favorite on each tree...

The gate that helped guide through the line to see Santa looked like it came straight from the North Pole. If I had to design what Santa's fence looked like I would have to say this. It also made for a great backdrop for photos while waiting in line.

Almost there...

And finally meeting Santa. The two older boys loved it and told him just what they wished for, Liam on the other hand, wanted nothing to do with him! This Santa was so nice! after this picture was taken I picked Liam back up and Santa continued to talk to him and try to get him to be comfortable with him, even offering to try another picture and go with him, as if there wasn't a 45 min line waiting behind us. By far my most favorite Santa we have ever met.

I edited this photo with picnik and used the snowing feature to add a little more of a white Christmas feel to it. And yes the army rain boots and hat are everyday accessories these days. He pretends to be Indiana Jones on a daily basis in between being Jack Sparrow, and any of the Star Wars heroes.

Anyway if you are ever thinking about making a trip to Disney for the holidays I would highly suggest it, early December is good as there is still all the same festivities going on but not as big of crowds compared to what it is the closer it gets to Christmas day. It's also a great place to find inspiration for holiday decorating, it's all in the details!

Enjoy your Monday! I'm going to try and get some sleep, a little one was up all last night so this mama is beyond exhausted!

Our holiday home tour will be coming up later!

~Meg

Tis the Season, Day 10: Noel pillow.

2011-12-10T16:54:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Day 10 of Tis the Season! How about a pillow tutorial today?

First you'll need some fabric for the cover of your pillow.
And some fabric for your word.
pompoms or jingle bells, whatever you want to use to embellish the corners.
heat and bond.
and a sewing machine.

Take some heat and bond and iron it onto the fabric you've picked for your word. Once on write out you word,make sure it's backwards, then cut it out.

Determine the size of your pillow and cut a piece for the front. Once cut peel the backing of the heat and bond off of your word and place onto the pillow front piece. Iron on.

Cut 2 pieces for the back both 2/3 the size of the front piece. They will overlap to form an envelope closure. If you want you can sew the edges so they won't fray, I didn't because I'm lazy.

Cut some pom poms and pin sandwiched in the corners. Sew everything together.

Fill with your insert and enjoy!

Hope you enjoyed!

~Meg

{linked to some of these parties}

Tis the Season, Day 9: holiday decorating with Denise.

2011-12-09T13:14:00.003-05:00

For the 9th day of Tis the Season I've invited another favorite blogger of mine. I'm sure you all know her since she guest posted this past summer for me here. Denise has a real treat for you today, wait till you see what she did to her back entrance, I'm in love...

I love Meg's ideas and am constantly being inspired by her, I'm sure you are too!
Here are some ideas I hope will inspire you this Holiday season.
My back door is the most used door in my home
(well, it's really a side door, but that seems so awkward to say).
But, I've neglected this door for far too long.
So I'm sprucing it up for Christmas with some simple things I have laying around the house.
I purchase nothing to create this back door scene...really.

I fluffed up an old chair with a throw and this black and white IKEA pillow.

The tree is wrapped in burlap and white ribbon.

I filled the bottom bucket with slices of wood to keep it from toppling over,

along with a few ornaments.

One of my favs...the yardstick star.

I even added a felt flower pin for a pop of red.

Greens from our yard.

I layered a little of this and a little of that, tied it all together and created this swag for my garage doors.

Happy Holidays

I'd love to have you stop by and visit!

Denise Sabia
The Painted Home
www.PaintedHomeDesigns.com
Facebook

I love that yardstick star! And all of the vintage goodies! You did a wonderful job Denise, such a cozy welcoming for anyone who comes over! Go on over to Denise's The Painted Home to see more eye candy... your eyes will be glued!

Happy Weekend!

~Meg

Tis the Season, Day 8: tomato cage Christmas tree.

2011-12-08T19:15:00.008-05:00

Sorry this post is so late. I had some cuddle time with the cutest little guy under 2 months old today! My best friend from Boston made a surprise trip down with her new little guy. It was so much fun seeing them and meeting the newest little man in her life. He was such a good baby, only fussing to eat and that's it. He looks so much like how I pictured my baby's to look when they were newborn, fair skinned with lots of dark hair. Mine were all tan with blonde hair {they get it from daddy}.

Anyway back to Tis the Season. I saw this idea on Pinterest and knew I would be making one too.

You'll need:

a tomato cage {I got the 3 ring one}
4 9ft pieces of garland
1-2 strands of lights
an urn, planting pot, basket, tub, {something to place your tree in}

Turn your tomato cage upside down and twist the top together tightly with one side of a piece of garland. My garland had a little loop on the ends so I put the cage ends into the hoop to help hold both pieces in place. Then begin winding the garland around the cage.

At the end of your garland twist it around part of the cage to secure it in place.

After 2 pieces of garland...

I was planning on using only 3 pieces of garland on it but there was still a little too much cage showing and my cage wasn't nesting inside the urn low enough to hide it so I added a 4th garland. Of course a helper to help make sure everything is symmetrical and even with no holes is always good.

After 4 pieces of garland. {see the big tree in the background? That was I think the 3rd go at decorating it, it didn't end up that way}. I added the 4th piece on while it was in the urn so I could get it tucked in tight.

The finished piece with lights on outside our door.

I would have made 2 but because of how our door is angled there isn't any room on the other side to have a second tree up.

I think the whole project cost me less than $12, the urn was used in my sister's wedding to hold topiaries at the "alter" but afterwards was banished to my parent's garage so I rescued it. It's perfect for my tree. Don't you think? I think these would look cute in those wooden barrels you can usually get in craft stores or in gardening sections and then plant some white poinsettias in it around the base of the tree also. That's what I probably would have used if I wanted to spend more money on this project, but something free is always good!

Just 16 days left till Christmas tomorrow, are you ready? I'm not!

~Meg

{linked to some of the parties below}

everything on sale! 25% off.

2011-12-07T08:54:00.006-05:00

In an effort to clear out the shop everything is 25% off!

Soft and cozy baby blankets for the little ones on your list...

Pillows to update your sofa...

Sweet stands to hold holiday goodies. Do you leave Santa and his reindeers cookies Christmas Eve? They would look pretty yummy and irresistible on one of these!

Fun necklaces for the trend setter on your list...

And fun personalized frames, perfect for children rooms or playrooms. {More letters are available if you don't see the one you're looking for, just convo me}.

Use coupon code HOHOHO at checkout to receive your discount!

Happy shopping! The sale will last until 11:59pm Christmas Eve!

~Meg

Tis the Season, Day 7: wish list.

2011-12-06T21:07:00.012-05:00

So today I thought I'd share some fun things to get as gifts for Christmas. {This may or may not have been prompted by my mom telling me earlier that she has no idea what to get anyone this year}.

Have you heard of the store Joules? It's based out of England but you can order things online too. They're even having a 3 for 2 sale right now. I LOVE their sweatshirts, such a fun and updated look for the frumpy tired old sweatshirt...

Source: joules.com via Meg on Pinterest

And these wellies! Love love love the ribbon on the back of them! After seeing Tessa's red ones I might need a pair myself...

Source: joules.com via Meg on Pinterest

Anthropologie is always a great place to find fun gifts too.

For the kitchen, these would never be tucked away in a drawer, I adore their fun color and vintage vibe!

After sampling some yummy coffee at the grocery the other day, I just might start having a morning cup again. Of course I would need a stylish mug to drink it from...And when it comes to fun books I'm all for them! Design and food books are always fun to look through and gain inspiration from. I could get lost in them for hours. Not only are they great reading material but look great piled up on the coffee table.

And last but not least I'm always encouraging small business shopping. Etsy is a great place to find unique, one of a kind gifts for everyone on your list this year. Some of my favorites...

The kids are sure to love these and they look like they were made in Santa's workshop:

For the littlest of them...

Source: etsy.com via Meg on Pinterest

The oldest of them...

Source: etsy.com via Meg on Pinterest

And the one in between...

Source: etsy.com via Meg on Pinterest

{for the sources click on the link at the bottom of each picture}

Can I tell you I've done very very little Christmas shopping so far? I've only gotten a few gifts and those are all gifts that have to be sent out, I haven't even done anything for the boys yet. Can you guess what I'll be doing this weekend? Happy shopping! Don't let the madness in the stores bring your holiday spirit down!

~Meg

{Check out the sale I have going on here too}

Tis the Season, Day 6: Guest post from Jenna at Everyday Clever.

2011-12-06T00:00:00.002-05:00

For today's holiday post I invited my new friend Jenna over. Remember she was my neighbor at the craft fair I recently was in, and was the host for this giveaway. I love what she has planned for you guys today, take it away Jenna!

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

I love scarves, but living in Florida leaves very little time to wear them. December is when it starts to get cold enough to justify a scarf, so I thought it was appropriate to do a no-sew scarf tutorial for Meg’s Countdown to Christmas.

I was so excited when Meg asked me to be a guest blogger--being a craft-lover myself, I thought this was the cutest idea! At Everyday Clever, I’m all about doing things on a budget, so this craft is extremely affordable…not to mention super simple—so, I hope you’ll all try it and then show me your own creations.

Here’s the finished product:

What You’ll Need:

- No Sew Fabric Glue

- A “Scarf Length” piece of jersey fabric (it’s stretchy & doesn’t fray so you don’t have to hem it)—mine was extra long : 108”L x 15”W

- Pom-pom or Ball fringe in either a contrasting color or a matching color for 2 ends of scarf. Since my scarf was 15”W, I got 30” of ball fringe and cut it in half—one piece for each end.

How To Make It:

Lay out one end of the scarf, bottom side up, and add a strip of no-sew fabric glue.

2. Lay ball fringe on top of glue line along the end of the scarf.

3. Trim overhanging edges of ball fringe

Repeat for other end of scarf.

I made sure that the scarf was laying flat the entire time that it dried and then I used mini clothes pins to hold the fringe to the fabric to prevent the glue from bubbling.

Let it dry overnight and you’re good to go!

Happy Scarf-Making!

Jenna

Thanks Jenna for sharing that project with us! I'm going to have to make myself some scarves following this tutorial, it looks very similar to my favorite scarf! And all of you who get to wear scarves more than a couple months out of the year without looking silly because it's 90 degrees out, I'm jealous! My scarf collection would suggest I live up north, and now it will be growing even larger thanks to Jenna! If you haven't done so already go check out Jenna's blog Everyday Clever... she has some cute ideas and good decorating tips!

Tis the Season will continue tomorrow with a craft/decor item for outside! See you then!

~Meg

Tis the Season, Day 5: hanging pinecones.

2011-12-05T09:32:00.007-05:00

I'm a little late getting this up, better late than never!

In this post you might have noticed somethings hanging in the windows...

I've had this pinned on pinterest for a while and new it would be perfect for our windows that have an arch to them.

Source: vickydar.blogspot.com via Meg on Pinterest

I might need to add some garland too...

What you'll need are some pinecones, ribbon, hot glue, scissors and tacks.

Cut your ribbon to the length you wish your pinecones to hang, plus about 2-3 inches. My ribbon was so wide that I cut it in half long ways also.

Dot the bottom of the pinecone with hot glue.

And push the ribbon on top to secure.

Once it is dry, hang on the top of your window opening with a tack. Make sure the tack is on the backside of the ribbon as it hangs down.

It's simple but looks festive! I might add some big bows on them just above the pinecone like the inspiration photo has.

Super easy and budget friendly, especially if you have pinecones in your own backyard!

See you tomorrow for another holiday post!

~Meg

{linked to the parties below}

art print winner!

2011-12-04T11:17:00.003-05:00

The winner of the Everyday Clever art print is Amber! Congrats Amber, I've sent Jenna your email so she will be in touch with you soon to find which print you'd like!

~Meg

Tis the Season, Day 4: Old Fashion Decorations.

2011-12-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

The first time I remember really noticing the use of decorative oranges during Christmas time was in a BHG magazine. I remember the house they featured looked like a log cabin with snow all around. All of the decorations they featured in the article were handmade looking and very rustic. Since then I've seen the oranges pop up in other homes, rustic and not. I decided I would take a turn at making some of these. Little did I know how great the smell is of these two simple things when they come together. There was a preview in this post.

All you need are some oranges {mine are actually tangerines, our grocery had a sale 10 for $1},
and some whole cloves.

All you have to do is poke the orange with the clove. It's up to you if you want to try a design or do it randomly. I did a little of both.

It was difficult to get the clove in some areas but for the most part it was pretty easy and fast.

I can't get over the smell of them! Every time I walk in the door or into the kitchen I'm greeted with their delicious fragrant.

Many people add ribbon to them and hang them from the tree. This is what they were originally made for back before there were "today's ornaments". I think I'll add them to our annual Christmas tradition list and make them each year!

Come back tomorrow for more Holiday fun!

~Meg

{linking to the parties below}

Tis the Season, Day 3: Shredded Paper Bulbs.

2011-12-03T00:00:00.001-05:00

I'm sure all of you have seen this already within the last month but just in case you've been living in a cave or whatever I thought I'd show you one of the handmade ornaments I've made this year. I didn't come up with this idea but I love it so I dove in.

You'll need some:

*glass Christmas craft bulbs that you can pick up at any craft store
*pages shredded from an old book {or whatever you want your shreds to come from}
*ribbon or scrap fabric

Shred your paper and begin stuffing into the glass bulbs. Fill until you feel it looks right.

Once you're happy with it put the topper back on and string some ribbon or scrap fabric through the wire and knot.

Then hang on your tree and enjoy.

Holiday fun continues tomorrow where I'll show you how to create some old fashioned traditional ornaments that aren't just pretty but smell better than any holiday fragrance you can buy at the store.

~Meg

{linked to some of these parties below}

Tis the Season, Day 2: Guest Post by Michelle at It's a Wonderfilled Life.

2011-12-02T00:00:00.002-05:00

For the second day of Tis the Season, I'm over at It's a Wonderfilled Life, sharing a tutorial for a holiday pillow I've made this year. But while I'm over there Michelle is over here. If you haven't met Michelle yet you're going to love her! She too has all boys, 5 of them to be exact and 2 of our boys share the same name. Somehow even after chasing 5 young boys around all day she still has energy for all of her creativity. Make sure you go visit her but only after you see her too cute project here first.

Hello there! It's so great to be over here visiting at Meg's blog today!

I adore her style and well I adore her too!

As part of my {twelve day} It's A Wonder*Filled Christmas series, I created some Little Drummer Boy inspired plates In lieu of placecards, I thought these would be sweet and fun! With five little guys, I like to make things unique, but they have to be simple too.

To make some of your own, you'll need...

Supplies:

*plates {mine were $5 for 8 at Goodwill}

*painters tape

*sharpie paint marker {1 fine point, 1 medium point}

or if you'd like your plate to be food safe,

you can use this marker and follow the instructions

*imagination!

You will also need an image, and since this is just for my personal use,

I found one here that I liked. Print the image out and then cut the image out creating a stencil.

Before starting make sure the surface of your plate is clean and dry.

Tape your outline to the plate {painters tape works great!}

Slowly outline your image and then fill in.

You can worry about the little details at the end,

initially just get your shape down.

I recommend shading in one direction

for the smoothest image.

Note: The Sharpie paint marker is permanent,

so just go slow and steady and you'll be fine!!

If I can do it, you can!

Once you have the image inked on the plate,

it will look a little like when you've painted just a single coat of paint.

You'll want to go back over the details and add

embellishments you add along the rim of the plate.

{Have fun with it!}

Here are some more designs I created switching up

the drum and outer part of the plate.

In a row like this, reminds me of the Beatles a bit! {grin}

Do you Pinterest?

Any of these images can be added to

Our Wonder*filled Life on Pinterest

These silhouette plates would make GREAT gifts.

In total I spent about ten dollars, really budget-friendly too!

Meg, thanks so much for having me by!

I have enjoyed hanging out in your beautiful space!!

{michelle}

Thank you Michelle for coming over! I love the plates and I think I'm going to have to make some of these for my own little drummer boys!

Tomorrow I'll be sharing one of my 2011 homemade ornaments, so make sure you come back and take a look! But for now go explore all of Michelle's creativity and fun ideas!

~Meg

Tis the Season, Day 1: 25 days to Christmas.

2011-12-01T00:00:00.003-05:00

It's been 3 years since I've decorated for Christmas and the season that is upon us. Why? Well for the past 2 years we have always moved just days after Christmas, so there was no point in pulling out all the decorations when we were trying to pack everything up. Bummer I know! This is my favorite time of year, I love Christmas, my birthday is just days after Christmas {yeah we've been moving every year on my birthday, yeah me!}, and I had always wanted to get married around Christmas, however that didn't work for us when it came time but oh well. It killed me not to be able to decorate these past couple of years. We would put up a small table top tree and some stockings and that's it. This year I'm finally able to pull out all of my stuff and decorate! I began seeing homemade advent/countdown calendars about 2 years ago and have been wanting to make one but again didn't really have a good reason to, but this year I decided it was time!

{please ignore the crooked stand, little Dennis the Menace has had fun throwing it onto the floor on more than one occasion}

Super simple and I had everything already. My chalkboard I created here was a perfect place for our countdown. I simply wrote a little message and drew a fun tree.

Then using magnets {that I sell at Craft shows} as ornaments we will dress up the tree every night before bed...

adding one at a time counting down to Christmas morning.

On Christmas Eve we will add a star to the top as the last ornament {I need to make one of those}.

Another craft show product are these glitter letters. I only had the letters to spell out 'to' but at least there is a little glitz and glam to it.

The boys are excited to begin the countdown, and so am I.

I love watching him try to reach the "ornaments" on his tiptoes!

This will be his first fun Christmas, I can't wait!!! Do you have a way you countdown to Christmas morning?

Come back tomorrow for a special guest post and holiday tutorial!

~Meg

{linked to some of these parties below}

our 2010 tree and Tis the Season 2011.

2011-11-30T18:52:00.006-05:00

Before I begin sharing my 2011 decor I thought I'd show you our 2010 tree. If you've been following for a while you know we recently moved from my in laws house. We were living there for a little while after my husband was placed at a new project here in the same town we both grew up in. We moved just days after Christmas so I wasn't able to decorate our home at the time {and the year before that we did the same thing from our first house} so I was feeling the need to decorate after not decorating for 2 years. Since my in laws didn't know where their tree was at that time we put ours up.

It was topped with a big red bow and filled with burlap garland, popcorn garland, and handmade ornaments done in preparation of the holiday {all the ornaments shown can be found in my sidebar if you're interested in making one}.

I love how it turned out.

The starfish ornament was bought the day after hubby and I got married from the same beach town we married in.

This ornament was given to me my first Christmas as a mommy. It's one of my favorite!

The tree skirt was made by my Noni for my parent's years ago. I had a matching stocking to go with it growing up.

I really wanted to re-create this tree again this year and spread the same feel around our home {since I only did the tree last year as the only decoration in the house}, but sadly the only box missing from our move happens to be the one containing all of my handmade ornaments, the garland, the bow, the skirt, and all of our stockings I made for us last year too. I even went to purchase some more burlap garland and it was sold out! I finally have a direction though for our 2011 tree, although I have re-done the ornaments and arrangement 5 times now, no joke. As of right now I've decided to use our silver and brown ornaments we have, however the rate it's been going it could be different by tomorrow morning. I'll share soon enough.

Beginning tomorrow I will be doing the "Tis the Season" series again. It will be filled with fun decorating ideas and crafts. I've even invited some fellow bloggers to join in the fun with me and share some of their creativity. It all starts tomorrow and is supposed to last 12 days, however I'm realizing I have way more projects and decorating ideas this year that it may go over on the day count. Come back tomorrow for Day 1 and to see how we're counting down to Christmas this year!

~Meg

giveaway reminder.

2011-11-29T12:04:00.002-05:00

You have until Friday to get your name in the hat for the Everyday Clever art print giveaway. Go here to sign up for it.

Also Jenna is having a sale on all of her prints at the moment. Go check them out! I'll be announcing a winner Friday evening.

Good luck!

~Meg

Tis the Season, Day 10: noel pillow.

2011-11-28T09:22:00.007-05:00

BLACK FRIDAY DEALS

2011-11-23T15:34:00.002-05:00

In honor of the upcoming busiest shopping day/weekend of the year, I have a deal for you!

Starting at 12am Friday through 11:59pm Monday, any order over $25 {excluding shipping} will receive a bonus gift! Just use the code LBPholiday11 in the notes at checkout. Go here to begin your holiday shopping.

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy shopping!

~Meg

Vintage Richard Scarry alphabet frames.

2011-11-22T10:57:00.002-05:00

... are back in the shop.

There are more letters available so if your don't see your letter convo me.

I'll be sharing a black friday deal soon so keep an eye out!

~Meg

our 2011 holiday table.

2011-11-19T15:42:00.012-05:00

What do you get when you mix vintage silver pieces, vintage music sheets, classic game pieces, and mismatched white dishes? Our 2011 holiday table. {warning, photo overload}...

Christmas is being celebrated at our home this year... I can't wait!

Sorry about all the pictures, I couldn't make up my mind! I had so much fun putting it together... I wish I could have kept it this way for a while but with the littlest causing havoc everywhere he goes this tablescape would have ended up in a million pieces all over the floor. I wanted a little bit of natural, classic, vintage, and elegance... I think I achieved it.

And yes this is the beginning of my Holiday posts... the season is upon us! I hope this Holiday season finds you singing everywhere you go!

~Meg

{linked to some of the parties below}

*Centsational Girl's Holiday Tablescape Party*

our master bedroom, again.

2011-11-18T21:00:00.001-05:00

Remember when I showed you this photo from here. I fell in love with the bedroom. The more I looked at it, the more I realized I could get that same look for our room.

I had kind of put our room together but something was off. It wasn't done, and it didn't have that cozy feeling I wanted. So in pure Megan fashion I re-did it, or actually finished it, the window side anyway...

The finished product...

About a year ago I came across a vintage book of birds and knew I could use it one day. I envisioned them all framed and lining a staircase. The frames are all frames I already had as well. Most of them vintage find from thrift stores. The majority were painted black, {chalkboard actually as it was the only black I had}. The gold frames were gold ones I already had as well.

The fabric for the pillows is a Ralph Lauren fabric that was on clearance at Joann's.

I edited the bedsides as well from the first make-over... here's my side...

And hubby's side... {still need a lampshade for that lamp}

{my favorite trophy of my hubby's}

It feels so much more put together now, until I look across the room. There's a very large and heavy dresser in need of some paint and new hardware over there. Hopefully one day soon.

Also last week my mom and dad celebrated a birthday, their birthdays are next to each other... Happy Birthday!!! Hope you all had a wonderful time in London... yep that's where they spent it, or at least the days just before. This is them years ago... before kids and marriage, my mom may have even still been in her teens here. It was taken at my Noni and Nono's house {my dad's parents, and grandparents in Italian}. Aren't those light sconces fabulous! I wish we still knew where they were...

Anywho, when I eventually get to painting the dresser I'll share those pictures with you. Have a great weekend!

~Meg

{linking to some of these parties}

new in the shop: bloomie necklaces.

2011-11-18T13:27:00.005-05:00

I showed you a preview of these from the craft fair a few weeks ago. Now I finally have them in the shop.

Introducing the Bloomie Necklace:

Plum
Snow

Mustard

Aqua

And gris

They make a fun accessory for any outfit. I wear mine nearly every day! Also perfect for a Christmas gift for that person on your list who likes one of a kind items or is the trend setter. You can view them here as well as all of my other items. {If you'd like more than one color just convo me and I will set up}.

~Meg

Fall Comfort Food linky party: Spaghetti Casserole.

2011-11-18T00:00:00.002-05:00

The final recipe I'll be sharing with you is my family's all time favorite! In fact my oldest requested to have the left overs tonight for dinner... so he finished it off.

Spaghetti Casserole:

a regular size box of spaghetti
can of cream of mushroom soup
marinara sauce {what we call red sauce}
mozzarella cheese

*Cook pasta until tender and drain. Place in a casserole dish.

*Top with cream of mushroom soup, try to spread over the pasta as much as possible with the back of a spoon.

*Top with "red sauce". {I eyeball this. I use probably a cup to a cup and 1/4, maybe}.

*Finally top with mozzarella cheese. We love cheese to I put a lot, but whatever your preference will work.

*Bake in the oven until cheese is melted and begins to brown {so it looks like a pizza}.

My family loves this served with breadsticks, we prefer the Pillsbury twist ones. This is another meal I grew up on, and I never tire of it! So yummy and easy! Also if you are like my hubby and have to have meat with any pasta dish you eat, you can always serve it with some meatballs on the side. You could even add ground meat to the casserole as a layer just before you spread the soup on.

Ok now it's your turn! Link up your favorite fall comfort food recipes. I'm always on the look out for something new to try with the family!

The only rules are to make sure you link back here so others can find some new recipes.

Also please only link to a specific post, not your entire blog.

~Meg

Fall Comfort Food: corn casserole and mozzarella chicken.

2011-11-17T16:16:00.004-05:00

The second recipe I'll share with you today is one I received from my husband's side of the family and another one I just made on a whim one day. Corn Casserole and Mozzarella Chicken:

Corn Casserole:

1 can of cream style corn
1 can of whole sweet corn with juice
2 eggs
1/4 cup of sugar
1 box of jiffy corn muffin mix
1 cup of sour cream
1/2 cup of butter, melted

*mix all ingredients together in a bowl, then pour into a 13x9 casserole dish.

*cook for 1 hour on 350 deg.

Mozzarella Chicken:

3-4 chicken breasts or cutlets
shredded mozzarella cheese
chicken broth
white wine
bread crumbs
1 egg
a splash of milk

*tenderize chicken and cut each in half.

*mix the egg and milk in a shallow bowl and dip the chicken into it.

*cover chicken with the bread crumbs.

*brown chicken in some oil on the stove. Then place in casserole dish.

*once all chicken is browned and in the dish, add the broth and white wine to the pan you browned them in and heat until boiling. {I use a chicken broth that has white wine in it already. I also do quite a bit because I like to use the broth mixture over pasta the next day. So eye it and use the amount you wish to make}

*pour the broth over the chicken, then place a heaping pile of cheese on top of each piece of chicken.

*place in oven at 350 deg for about 30-35 min depending on what kind of chicken you have {breasts or cutlets}.

And yes I mentioned I was a vegetarian before. I occasionally eat chicken, I'll save the explanation for a later post.

We make the corn casserole as part of our meal for every holiday. We love it! I actually like it best the next day right out of the fridge. So good cold!

Enjoy!

~Meg

Fall Comfort Food: Stroganoff.

2011-11-17T15:56:00.005-05:00

Sorry for the lack of a post yesterday. I put my back out while holding my littlest during our errand run. Not sure how it happened but all day yesterday was hard for me to move at all. It's still a little painful if I move just right. My husband says I'm getting old, I do have a birthday coming up...

Anyway today I'm going to share with you my family's favorite thing I make, or one of them rather. Beef Stroganoff, but we just call it stroganoff.

It's super easy, all you need are these things...

*Cook the pasta and drain.

*While the pasta is cooking, cook some ground meat in a pan and season with your regular seasoning.

*In another pot add the cream of mushroom soup and beef consomme {you can use beef broth but I think this gives it more flavor}

*Once the soups are well mixed and bubbly, add the worcestershire sauce {since I don't care for mushrooms, the texture of them anyway, I drain the soup to get the mushrooms out first, I know weird!}

*stir the sauce well and add some salt and pepper to taste.

*Add the sauce to the pasta, as well as a cup of sour cream. Mix well.

*Here you would add the beef to it as well but I'm a vegetarian so I leave it on the side.

*Enjoy!

I love to serve it with broccoli too. I think they go well together, as well as peas.

I'll share another one with you in a little!

And come back tomorrow with your favorite comfort food recipe!

~Meg

Fall Comfort Food: mac'n cheese.

2011-11-15T16:11:00.003-05:00

Today I'm sharing with you my family's favorite Mac N Cheese recipe. It's a recipe from Paula Deen, and I think it's the yummiest mac n cheese I've ever had!

{I forgot to take a picture of mine I made the other night before it was gone but here is one I found on the web.}

Here is the original recipe:

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (an 8-ounce box isn't quite 2 cups)
4 tablespoons (1/2 stuck) butter, cut into pieces
2 1/2 cups (about 10 ounces) grated sharp Cheddar cheese
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup sour cream
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed Cheddar cheese soup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Boil the macaroni in a 2 quart saucepan in plenty of water until tender, about 7 minutes. Drain. In a medium saucepan, mix butter and cheese. Stir until the cheese melts. In a slow cooker, combine cheese/butter mixture and add the eggs, sour cream, soup, salt, milk, mustard and pepper and stir well. Then add drained macaroni and stir again. Set the slow cooker on low setting and cook for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

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The first time I made this I didn't realize I needed to do it in a crock pot so I adjusted it some and I now cook it in the oven.

I use all the same ingredients except the eggs and butter.

*Cook the noddles {I also use corkscrew or even rigatoni, whatever I have on had already}.

*Drain and put them in a large bowl.

*Add all of the other ingredients except the eggs and butter.

*Mix well and pour into a baking dish, 9x13 or a deep casserole dish.

*Place into the oven at 350 deg for about 35 min.

It comes out extra creamy and oh so yummy! I like to serve it with a side of broccoli at times too.

Now grab a big bowl and fork and enjoy!

You have until Friday evening to put your name into the hat for a cute art print from Everyday Clever. Go here to enter.

Also don't forget on Friday I will have a linky party up so you can share your favorite fall comfort food recipe. See you tomorrow!

~Meg

Fall Comfort Foods: Creamy Potato Soup.

2011-11-14T08:19:00.012-05:00

This is one of my favorite recipes to make when it's cold out. It is sooo good with a fresh baked French baguette. I grew up with a chunky potato soup my mom used to make, which I still love, but this one is a little different and since my kids aren't big on food with chunks, it fits our family better.

Creamy Potato Soup:

{Please excuse my chicken scratch handwriting}

cook onions in hot oil for about 5-10 min or until tender.

dice the potatoes while onions cook.

whisk together the flour and milk, then add to the onions and stir for 5 min.

Add the potatoes and chicken broth, stir.

bring to a boil and cook for 20 min or until potatoes are tender.

with a ladle scoop out portions of the soup into a blender, and puree. {you might want to have another large bowl or pot nearby to collect the pureed portions until the main pot is empty}.

pour the pureed soup back into the main pot and add the Swiss cheese, salt, and pepper.

once the cheese is melted serve in bowls with a big chunk of bread!

I tend to serve this soup with turkey balls {instead of meatballs}. They're a good combination together. Enjoy!

Don't forget about the giveaway from Everday Clever going on here.

~Meg

{linked to some of these parties}

giveaway from Everyday Clever.

2011-11-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

***GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED***

How about a giveaway? Remember Jenna who I told you about from this post? She was my neighbor at the craft show I was in last week. Well she contacted me asking if I wouldn't mind hosting a giveaway for one of her prints. She does some really pretty work! I love this print, and of course the minute I saw it the song played in my head for the entire night afterwards...

I wish my baby was still in a nursery setup because this would have looked perfect in his room...

She even has some holiday prints available. I can see this one set up on a vignette in an entry, or maybe on a mantel in a white chippy frame with some big garland and white candles, ooo and some vintage silver pieces {can you tell I have Christmas on the brain?}...

Anyway any one of these or another from her shop could be yours. Here's how to enter:

Go over to Jenna's shop, Everyday Clever, and come back here and tell me which print you'd pick if you're the lucky winner.

For extra entries:

~Subscribe to Jenna's blog.

~Post, tweet, or facebook about the giveaway {one entry for each}

Make sure you come back here and leave a comment for each thing you do. While you're over there look around, she has some pretty handy ideas and designs!

I'll be back later with my first 2nd annual Fall Comfort Food Recipe Post.

~Meg

bedroom inspiration.

2011-11-09T10:10:00.003-05:00

It's 10:11am and I've already started laundry, washed dishes, cleaned bathrooms, vacuumed and mopped hard floors, given the kids a morning snack, and set the littlest down for a nap. Maybe this time change thing isn't such a bad idea, well it is but I like the fall version better than the spring one.

Anywho I cam across this photo on pinterest the other day, maybe it was yesterday I can't remember, and I can't get it out of my head {the bedroom one, but I love them all}! I think it's perfect inspiration for our bedroom... I told you I have OCD and ADD when it comes to our home.

Source: philipmitchelldesign.blogspot.com via Meg on Pinterest

I'm off to accomplish it now, lucky me I have everything I need, just about! I'll show you how it turns out later.

~Meg

you'd never know I was a neat freak.

2011-11-08T08:08:00.006-05:00

I told you it wouldn't be pretty! This is the current state of our home. A few before pictures so you know what I'm dealing with.
The eating area isn't messy, it's just unfinished.

I'm blaming it all on my sister's wedding and the craft fairs.

Ever since we moved in that is all I've been working on.

Now that both are over I'm free to work on our own home! Finally! And yes you see a monkey climbing the TV area...

He apparently likes to sit in the very front row for best views! {And he does have MANY more pj's than these, but what I'm realizing is every time I post his picture last minute on here he is wearing these same ones, oh well}

Today I'm going to focus on removing all the boxes you see lining the breakfast bar area and hopefully finish those frames for the art above the sofa. And hang some curtains in the playroom and bunk room. I also had a dream last night that I was thrift shopping and found some vintage glasses that I want for this holiday season... I haven't been thrifting in forever! I think it's a sign I should go...

Wish me luck!

~Meg

craft fair re-cap, and some peer pressure needed.

2011-11-07T21:11:00.013-05:00

The craft fair this weekend was a huge success! I had so much fun and did even better this year than last {maybe the freezing cold wind kept everyone away last year}, it even rained and people still came out! Here are some pictures of my set-up. I loved the space I was in so much better than last year... a lot easier to unload and load the car, and since there was only 1 row of tents, the spectator's attention was always on your side of the road which = more customers!

The front view: {I was right behind the playground so I was able to see my little guys playing after they came to visit}.

The left side:

Magnets didn't so so well this year compared to last, last year I think they were my most popular item:

Sweet stands pretty much all sold out:

Some new products that will be up in the shop hopefully by the end of this week, necklaces and pins:

The right side:

A second new item, mini bloomie pins for babies and little girls {I love the polka dot ones}:

More Richard Scarry letter frames than last year:

And my new Let's Play Tag blankies:

Another new item that sold out were these Beatrix Potter frames, I'll be making more of these too and listing them in the shop soon:

A close up of Mr. Benjamin Bunny:

I couldn't have asked for a better neighbor too. Her name is Jenna and she was there with her MIL sharing a tent together. She has some really pretty art prints you're going to want to look at and she's an interior designer! You can visit her at her blog Everyday Clever.

And finally I'm asking you all for some peer pressure. Yep that's right, I need extra pressure to finish getting our home ready and put together. I have unfinished projects, rooms, and areas all over the house. I have this thing called OCD {although my hubby says I really do have OCD, I think I do too} Over Compulsive Decorating as well as ADD, Attention Deficit Decorating. You see as I'm working on a room/project/idea, suddenly a different project/idea/issue will catch my attention and I'm off to begin on that leaving my first room/project/idea at a half finished standstill, and then while I'm working on that second idea, something else catches my attention and all of a sudden needs to be attended to at once, and so on and so on. This leave me with a bunch of half finished, unorganized spaces and now that the craft fairs are over with I can finally set my mind to conquering them all! I have a plan, if I take you all on my journey and update my progress and show you the steps to how I'm going to accomplish it all, hopefully I can get it all done... by Thanksgiving, or Dec 1 as my latest deadline! Tomorrow when there's light I'll share with you the current state of our kitchen/eating area and living area, don't expect anything too pretty!

Anywho I'm tired {is anyone else hating the whole time change thing and see any point to it anymore? We should all adapt to Arizona's way of thinking and leave it alone!} and I'm ready for bed. See you tomorrow!

~Meg

weekend craft fair, fall comforts, and a pretty bedroom.

2011-11-03T06:00:00.002-04:00

If any of you who are in the Orlando area, I'll be out at the Lake Eola Fiesta in the Park again this year. It's this Sat and Sun from 10-5ish.

Lots and lots of vendors all around the lake and surrounding streets... I had so much fun last year and met so many people!

It should be a nice weekend, I hope! I would love to meet you if you come by... I'll be located somewhere on Central st. I'll get my space number on Friday.

I'll have new goodies as well that I've been hard at work yesterday and hope to finish up today.

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Also Nov 14-18 will be the 2nd annual Fall Comforts week. I began last year writing about different ways to find Fall Comforts. This year will be a week long of my favorite fall comfort foods. At the end of the week there will be a linky party for you to share your favorite fall comfort foods. I'll have a button for it soon if you'd like to share the event on your blog. Mark your calendars and get ready for it! Hope to see you there!

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And last but not least do you know Tessa? She guest posted for me this past summer and I've shared some of her home here. Yesterday she showed off her newly re-done bedroom she decorated with the help of Holly.

She says it's only 95% done but it looks perfect to me already! I love her style, maybe because it reminds me of New England where all of my family is from. Anyway she has completely given me the motivation to finish getting our home put together... after the craft fair is over. If you've never visited her before go on over and tell her I said hi, she is super sweet, you'll love her!

I think that's it.

~Meg