It’s Not a Facelift, Just a New Shade of Lipstick – part 2

Somehow they take over, all it takes is one and before you know it they have affected every room in the house.  I’m talking about your kids.  Toys, clothes, sippy cups, etc.   Are you at a point where you want to reclaim at least part of your home from your kids?  Then it’s not time for a facelift, just a new shade of lipstick. 

If you spend the whole day picking up toys and filling juice cups, then you need a retreat that is not in the main part of the house.  Try just a few changes in your bedroom that can make a real difference.

1)      If you are not in love with your bedding, buy new.  There are load of inexpensive comforters out there.  And let’s face it your bed is like a large piece of art.  It is the largest surface besides the walls and floor.

2)      Find a comfortable chair that you can tuck into a corner of your bedroom.  This is not to become where you throw your clothes before they eventually make it to the closet.  This is a place for you to have a cup of tea in the morning or spend 15 minutes looking at your favorite magazine while the kids are napping.  If you have enough space, pair it with a table and lamp.

3)      Add plants if you have lighting for them.  Many house plants are low light.  This will add an earthy element which can be very soothing.  If no light and you’re okay with artificial do that.

4)      Add family photos.  Not just professional ones but the weird selfie of you and the kids on a snow day or of you and your husband at the beach.  These are the personal things that make it your home.

5)      Don’t add too much clutter.  It is so easy to have too much.  I suffer from this.  If you have several things, remove them all and place them in a box.  Choose you’re most favorite and place it.  Then do this every few days.  You may find you can pack some of these treasures away.

6)      Make your bed every day.  The point of this “shade of lipstick” is to give you peace.  If you are looking at an unmade bed and lots of clutter you are not going to feel peaceful.

Comfy chair, lamp, book, photos, flowers and coffee...the perfect unwind spot.

 Barbie no longer needs to keep her wardrobe all over your living room.  The couch cushions can go back on the couch and not double as the family fort.  Just a few ideas for making this a whole family space where you can have YOUR friends over.

1)      Remove all the kid stuff.  If they want it, they need to find space in there room for it.  If not, pack it away as a treasure or donate it, sell it etc.  Just get it out of the room.

2)      Could it use a fresh coat of paint?  You don’t even have to change the color.  Just fresh paint can make a difference.  However, maybe you are adventurous and want to try a new color.  What color to pick can be a challenge.  Obviously, paint chip is a place to start.  But think about what colors you like.  Some paint companies offer samples.  Paint these on to poster board, not the wall, creating the super paint chip.  It can be easily moved around the room and give a better idea of how the color will look.

3)      Do you need new furniture???? Is your couch is comfy? If yes, don’t replace it.  Is it looking dirty? If yes, cover it with a slip cover.  If no, add a new throw for a pop of color or new throw pillows.  These can be an easy way to add pops of color.

4)      Find baskets, bins or another container to put stuff that “migrates” into the room.  Have one for each family member.  A few times a week have everyone empty their container.

Before - dated print but ridiculously comfortable chair

After - same chair flipped the cushions, added a cream blanket, and a few pillows with a pop of color

 

Now back to Mary’s project, reclaiming her dining room and creating a work at home space.  With planning and discussion this became a two room project.

1)      First we looked at the existing lace curtains that didn’t do much for the room.  I purchased a single panel of 5 choices to show her.  She chooses a beautiful robin’s egg blue in a faux raw silk.  These matched her existing rug and the upholstery on her dining chairs and gave a bit of the sparkle she wanted.  These were paired with new rods with cut glass finals to again add some sparkle.  Window make-over, less than $80 for 2 windows.

2)      Next we moved her antique china cabinet to the wall between the windows.  I just looked small where it was on the wall with the work table.  Here it became a focal point.  Mary carefully arranged the elegant, antique piece given to her by her great aunt.  China Cabinet moved FREE.

3)      Next was the hard part, the desk.  She was willing to spend some money and get a new piece of furniture but really would prefer a “previously loved” desk.  I love to find a bargain and we both set out to look.  I went online to several sites looking for new pieces that would fit her needs.  She went to local antique store and thrift stores to search.  When looking for a second hand piece determine how long you will search before you just want the project done.  Mary finally decided on a desk from Craig’s list.  While it was perfect for her work area, it was not ideal for her dining room.  It was not similar in color or style of the rest of the dining room furniture.  Thus plan B, we decided to move the antique desk from their living room to the dining room, along with the family photos and keepsakes that would displayed on the desk.  The newly purchased desk would be put in its place and fit the room there much better.

New placement between windows makes the piece appear larger

Beautiful antiques from family members

Mary now had her reclaimed dining room, which is the first room you see when you enter her home.  Sometimes when we start a project, we hit bumps but there is almost always a solution.  Just remember you may need to think outside the box.

So if you are looking to reclaim a space from kids, I hope these suggestions will help.  But if you are in need of further help, I would be happy to work with you to create a family friendly space.  Contact me at simplejoybydesign@gmail.com or visit my Facebook page Simple Joy Designs.

 

It’s Not a Facelift, Just a New Shade of Lipstick

No, this is not a beauty column.  However, I do strive for beauty in the every day.   Everyone knows what they like and don’t like but you may not always be able to pull it all together.  Maybe you just aren’t a shopper or don’t have time to shop.  Or you aren’t sure how to tie together the pieces you treasure.  Either way, if you want to reclaim your home from your kids, I’m here to help.  I ask question, offer suggestions and come up with out-of-the box solutions.  Often we don’t notice the clutter of our day to day living; it takes fresh eyes to notice little changes that can make a big impact.   So are you ready to reclaim your house?  Let me help you decide!

This will be a two-part piece that will help you decide if you are ready, and walk you through some of the steps to achieve an “adult” space.  I will be guiding one mom through updating her dining room, but there will be plenty of ideas for anyone looking for “a new shade of lipstick"

So the first step is to decide if you are ready.  Will the “maintenance” of the space be worth it?  Look at your living space and the age of your kids; what you have will determine what you can do.  You may have a 900 sq. ft. apartment and two toddlers.  You may be lucky to get a shower and the dishes done most days!  There is no need to worry about floral arrangements on the dining room table when it is more effort just to not grind fish crackers in to the carpet.  For you, try making your bedroom your space, a retreat from the day.  If possible, placing a sitting area with a chair and small table where you can retreat for a moment of peace during nap time or for morning coffee.  Use soothing colors.  Maybe a new comforter can be a spring board for your new space.

If your kids are approaching middle school, they aren’t playing matchbox cars and Polly Pockets in the living room any more.  So this space might be a good one to reclaim.  If toys have invaded, remove them.  Have the kids find a place in their room for these treasures or donate them.  If you are up to it PAINT, even if it is the same color.  A fresh coat of paint  gives a room a clean look!   The kids are still going to put their feet on the couch, so I would not get a new one, instead look for a slip cover or a throw to freshen it up.  A low cost, high impact pop of color is throw pillows.  Just 2 or 3 can change the whole look.  Add family picture and a few accessories for a new look. 

Or maybe you have started to work at home need a home office space.  That is what is going on with Mary Becelia, the FRED Parent Blogs Community Manager and a part-time Career Counselor at the University of Mary Washington. Over the past 12 years, her dining room has functioned as an eating area, playroom, and home office.  Now that the kids are upper elementary and early middle school, it is time for a more grown up look. 

A few months ago, Mary gave this space a fresh coat paint in a neutral tone and hung some beautiful family photographs on the walls, but the room still needed a “new shape of lipstick.” The first thing I noted when I arrived is that she is using an old kitchen table as her work space.  She recognizes that this is less-than-ideal, and requested some help finding an attractive desk.  In addition, she said that she would like to see a little sparkle in to offset the neutral walls.  The room is a great size has plenty of space for accommodating both dining area and an office nook. 

Finally, we both agreed that the white lace curtains that she has accenting the windows need to go. White curtains, beige walls…blah. Nothing pops. I got some ideas from her as to what she likes and started shopping…

Next time: we’ll discuss where to best place her antique china cabinet and see if we can find the perfect desk for Mary!

6 Easy Tips to Setting a Fabulous Buffet

Is it a challenge to get all your favorite dishes on the dining table for a family celebration?

Here are 6 easy tips on how to set a fabulous buffet for nearly any occasion.

1)  WHITE DISHES AND CLEAR GLASS

If you have read my blog before you will know I like to use white dishes.  I think they are versatile, they provide the opportunity for fun and festive or elegant with a touch of sparkle.  I also use clear glass for the same reason.   They can be paired with table linens to set the mood of your gathering.

2) THINK LAYERS

To do this I am going to layer the buffet table.  I do this with objects from around the house, starting with, yes, the kid’s step stool placed in the center of the table to create a focal point (I know this may sound odd, but bear with me!)  Then I added stacks of books in varying heights on either side.   Next, I cover these mechanics with a pretty table cloth.  Often time I will use a twin bed sheet, and if necessary I knot the corners or tie corners with ribbon so the excess does not puddle on the floor.  For this table I repurposed a lace curtain panel as a runner.  

 

3) THEME YOUR TABLE

I added extra touches to the white and glass to pull the table together.  For this Easter Brunch theme I used Easter eggs, chicks, spring flowers and jelly bean print napkins.  Use seasonal decorations, fabric, toys, really just about anything you have around the house to pull together your theme.  For a beach party use a beach towel and sand toys.  For a baby shower, receiving blankets and baby items pull your table together.  Shop around your house.

4) FRAMED MENU

More and more people are on specific diets and providing a menu on your table can ease some of the inconvenience that goes with that.  Mark items Gluten Free or Nut Free for guests with food allergies.  They will very much appreciate you thinking of them.  For this gathering the plates are stacked next to a framed menu and the flatware is gathered into jellybean print napkins tied with green raffia.  These are held in a juice glass that was placed in the center of a colored egg wreath.  If you find you need more space on the buffet table, set the plates and flatware on the dining table.

5) REPURPOSE DISHES

When thinking about setting a buffet, try thinking outside the box.  For this buffet I used a water goblet on a dinner plate for a fruit and yogurt. (I have also used a wine glass for veggie and dip.) 

Once again I am moving beyond the original purpose of the dishes and using a footed trifle bowl for greens, apothecary jars for topping ( cucumber, feta cheese and crotons) and a gravy boat for the dressing.  Adding silk spring flowers and colored eggs really gives the table a feel for the season. 

 

6) ADD WHIMSY

The baby chick figurine added to the middle of the deviled eggs plate gives a touch of whimsy.  For other themes it might be hanging a beach ball from the ceiling or using a toy dump truck to serve salad.  For New Year’s I used calendar pages and clocks.  Again, I encourage you to think outside the box.

Hopefully these easy tips will help you plan your next gathering and you too can be the hostess with the mostest!

Happy Spring Entertaining!!!

Playing with your veggies

Even if you aren’t Irish, most of us put on a green shirt and eat some corned beef and cabbage once a year.  Much of what is available for this holiday in the way of decorations can be a bit over the top.  If you’re not into green glitter and leprechaun figurines then where do you turn to make your home a little more festive? The grocery store! 

That’s right, your wee little ears were not deceived, I said the grocery store.  With just a few stops, beginning with the produce section, you can get into the spirit of the holiday.  Look for Brussel sprouts and new potatoes; these leprechaun-sized veggies are perfect filler for a bowl for a fun and festive centerpiece.  (Beware: our 10 month old kittens saw this as interactive.)   Find a large bowl or platter, place a large clear glass candle holder in the center and surround with your veggies.  The potatoes will keep for several weeks; however the Brussel sprouts will start to get a little funky after a few days.  Add dried split peas in the clear glass candle holder for extra color.  

Now let’s set the table for dinner.  I think that if you entertain often, the way to go is plain white dishes.  I use them all the time, mine came from a big box store.  By changing out table clothes, chargers, placemats and other colored dishes they can really make any table sparkle.  I set my table with a green table cloth and white dishes, accented with pieces from my collection of Depression glass.  Layered with gold napkins, it sets a table that is fitting for a holiday meal.

For my sideboard (which is actually a repurposed dresser) I add apothecary jars and a tray of jelly jars.  The leftover potatoes and Brussel sprouts are placed in the apothecary jars, along with gold wrapped chocolates.  I am a huge thrift store shopper and over the years have found some pretty cool serving pieces to go with my white dishes.  One of my more recent finds was this rectangle tray with holes in one corner for ribbon.  I added green rick rack and paper shamrocks to the jelly jars before filling them with flowers bought from the floral department of the grocery store.  These are alstroemeria, my favorite because they last a long time, come in some many colors, and are easy to work with. 

So the next time you go for bread and milk, take a look around and see what might work in other parts of your home.  Happy St. Patrick’s Day. 

DIY Ideas to Beat the January Blues

We are moving in to the first part of January and if you have been timely in taking down your Christmas/holiday decorations your house probably looks well…..empty.  Here are a few ideas on filling some of that void with winter seasonal ideas.

If you haven’t taken the decoration down yet, keep the snowmen out.  They are perfect for January.  If you have already packed them away, next year give them their own box so they can hang out a little longer.

Use candles.  They are warm and cozy.  A collection of colored glass holders on a tray can make a nice centerpiece.  Or how about a lantern on your fireplace mantle or bookcase for an inviting touch? Speaking of candles, try the “electric” candles.  They make pillars that take AAA batteries and some even have a remote or timer.  These can be used where the “fire” version can’t be placed, even around kids and pets.

 Glass containers or bowls with pinecones or vases with evergreens…even in January bringing the outside in can make things, well…beautiful.  Add a bow to match your décor…or add a punch of color like turquoise (my favorite).

Think snow…when my daughter was younger I would give her a stack of coffee filters and pair of scissors and let her make all the snowflakes she wanted.  Tape them to windows or hang on string from lights or doorways.

Add a bright colored throw or fun colored throw pillows to the couch.  On the gloomy days of January a splash of color can bring a smile to your face.

I grew up in Florida so for me January in Virginia can be a real downer but I know this so I take it up a notch and make sure I put color in my life.  This goes not just for the house but me too.  I carry a bright colored purse or wear a fun colored hat and scarf.  I even break out a bright coffee mug so that I start the day in the right frame of mind.  So try to have warm thoughts and before we know it spring will be here!

Nancy Masannat

Simple Joy Designs