Organized Pantry Ideas

Lately, I have tried to cut down on the amount of processed foods I buy.  But still have a few favorites like Doritos for my taco soup and taco casserole, marshmallows for hot cocoa, and microwaveable popcorn.  I can't give those up!  Those are three staples you are likely to always find in my pantry along with some more healthy things like black beans, brown rice, and pasta. Since...

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Restoration Hardware Chalkboard Knockoff

For a couple of years I have had a tear out of this chalkboard from Restoration Hardware.  My inner 'frugalista' would not allow me to spend $499 on a chalkboard.  But I knew that I could build one on my own.  So finally this week, I bit the bullet and decided to do  it.  And she is glorious!  I still consider myself an amateur woodworker, so it is not perfect.  But...

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Bringing the Fall Indoors

 Every year I look forward the watching the leaves change colors in the fall, so that I can bring some clippings inside.  I love the warm colors that signal that fall is here.  We actually had some freezing temps here last week, but my trees had not turned yet.  This week we are back in 70 degree weather and my 'October Glory' maples have finally begun to change!  I...

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Fall in the Kitchen

I got the chance to attend the Casual and Chic Entertaining workshop hosted by Ikea this weekend.  Stylist Annette Joseph was the speaker and she did not disappoint.  I was excited to attend for two reasons.  One, I am always hesitant to host parties for some reason.  I always feel like I can't pull it off.  Secondly, it was chance to meet Annette Joseph, who is a styling...

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Thrifted Desk {Refinished}!

I wrapped up refinishing the desk for the playroom a couple of weeks ago.  I ended up re-stripping and sanding it with hopes of removing the bit of lime wax on the top.  Although I wasn't able to completely remove that finish, I was able to remove marker stains and the original varnish that sort of dated the wood.  I used a water-based stripper to keep cleanup easy, reapplying two times....

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Late Summer Yard Clean Up {Progress}

Last Saturday, the weather was so nice, I went outside to sit on my patio and enjoy my yard.  Unfortunately, my eyes were assaulted by site of a neglected yard.  Overgrown grass, outta control weeds, and random trees made me want to run back inside.  But instead I decided to do what any good blogger would do.  Post some ugly pics and motivate myself to get to work! It's been...

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