kelle dame

Environmental Bio-chic

2012-02-23T20:23:00.002-08:00

Environmental Biology isn't really my thing.

It was especially NOT my thing when I had to take the class in college. I didn't think it would actually inspire me or even be relevant to me as a design major...I mean, how exactly does visiting the water treatment plant translate into classic home decor??

But...turns out that decor inspired by Environmental Biology IS pretty relevant and inspiring these days!

Y'all know John Derian knows what's up:

He's pretty serious about his environmental subjects.

The creators of these lab-like kitchens also know what's up....

I get it now....and I thought the only good thing that came out of that class was the ability to identify trees.

This is a shagbark hickory

Yep.

And the Adler Planetarium....

....it's exterior is covered in a stone called gneiss....a 3.5 billion year old metamorphic stone mainly found in Scotland, but can also be found in the great U.S. of A, specifically, in the land of 10,000 lakes....

......I carry this information around in my brain involuntarily!

Examples with a few nods to the biology lab.....

The key for me is black.

Black is a magical color. Black makes all ordinary biological life forms and lab equipment look way cooler than they actually are. Black makes green look even greener and somehow, makes all things written upon it in chalk, completely factual.

Now I'm itching to paint a wall black!

Manet Is My Pimp!

2012-02-06T18:03:00.000-08:00

Edouard Manet that is, you know that about him, right? Besides being one of the first 19th Century artists to approach modern-life subjects, despite facing great controversy, he was the pivotal figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism...blah blah blah.... he kind of saved me, and he's my pimp, because lately I've been all...

....pathetic and dying on the floor like this Dead Matador (Manet 1864-65)...except instead of dying via a bulls horn, I've just been dying creatively. On the inside. It just happens sometimes, and then I eat lots of bacon and chocolate and stare off into space for long periods of time and mope around and whine to all of my friends, and write run-on sentences, and then all of a sudden it's all ok again. Because of pimps like Manet....and my friends...and the chocolate..

Anyway, these two drawings.......

....besides being highly romantical and therefore appropriate for our bedroom....

.....are my own drawings based on two of Manet's master drawings. Back in college, we had to do about 900 master drawings, and I always found myself inspired by Manet. Mainly because his sketches were great examples of simple and elegant line variation. To sketch so simply and accurately with just a few lines isn't easy. Let me tell you!

Somehow framing these drawings and hanging them up made me come back to life. Creatively. That's why Manet is my pimp, and I guess, since I'm naming pimps and all, the guy behind ArtWorks can be considered a superfly pimp, because he hooked me up with these silk mats and bamboo frames!! AND whoever grew that orchid....well...they're a pimp too!

I thought I created a clever combination with the drawings and the bamboo and silk by referencing a non-existent connection between Manet and Orientalism and/or Japonisme. Turns out it was Monet, not Manet, whose work was influenced by Japonisme in the late 1800's. Woops! I still think it would have been clever!

So. That's why Manet is my pimp. AND that's why we're just gonna have to re-write his biography and say that he was indeed influenced by Japonisme.

You wouldn't guess he's my pimp just by lookin at him would ya??

P.S. You lovely followers and friends also saved me from being the dead matador :) You're the bestest for always checking out my blog, despite my lack of posts, and run-on sentences!

Purchases to Hide! Shhhhh!

2012-01-26T14:49:00.000-08:00

Here's all of my ideas for our nearly empty Front Living / Dining.

Just so we're clear...all of these things are "free"...wink wink...

I would show you pics of what the room looks like now, but there really isn't much to show because it's kinda empty. Especially since the Christmas tree is down.

There's lots of work to do and lots of secret shopping that needs to happen!!

Highest on my priority list is attaining at least one of these babies.....

I love her "dress" and I would totally put my kid on a leash if she didn't already have a hood to hang onto.

Don't you just love them??

Then, the harder part, which is attaining that slip covered couch.

"Couches" are a sore subject in my house because I MAY be addicted to purchasing them. AND there MAY be at least two of my previous couch purchases in the basements of people I know. They ARE being used though, so doesn't that count for something???

AND THEN there's our desk...

that my hubs and my dad built together, for me, the demanding designer,

...and I am tempted to change it. Slightly.

By darkening the stain to a black stain. This idea was surprisingly well received. Mainly because it's practically free. BUT I'm still scared to do it! What if I mess it up?!? We'll see if I can muster up some courage for the sake of my new living room design!

If you know how to go about hiding the purchase of a rather large, slip covered sofa, please let me know! I need all the help I can get!

AND if you see any of the above La Vie's for sale somewhere....PLEASE tell this girl!!

Have a Happy Friday!!

Polka Dots

2012-01-19T15:58:00.000-08:00

Yes.
I am a grown woman who loves polka dots.

Polka dots aren't just for kids!

There is a science to using polka dots correctly.

By correctly, I mean in a non-tacky sort of way.

You know you've witnessed the abuse of poor, innocent, polka dots, in at least one horrifying situation in your lifetime. That's why it's important to educate people on the proper use of polka dots.

The key is using them only once. Maybe twice. Even twice is getting dangerously close to tacky.

You've seen me use them....

...in girly rooms...

...and I will always use them because they are timeless and I just can't help myself!

I'm counting on all of you to educate people on the proper use of polka dots and to also keep an eye on me and make sure my love for little dots doesn't get out of control.

Did you know that there are naysayer(s) (who shall remain nameless) who believe that "polka dots, are the zits of design"??!!

Seriously. That isn't just a quote by some guy (whose shop is frequently mentioned on this blog) who knows that I love polka dots and will fight for their honor. The nerve.

There is also a proper way to wear them....

via

..in an effortless sort of way....

It seems that it's more difficult to abuse them while wearing them, than while decorating with them. Maybe it's just too easy to get out of control when there are so many opportunities to use them.

Blouses via Emerson Made.

I want EVERYTHING to be Emerson Made!!!

AND I love that the "clearance" section on the Emerson Made website is referred to as "Ends".

So there. Please join me and stop the abuse of polka dots......and zebras.....

..enough is enough.

Just Dreaming

2011-12-27T12:26:00.000-08:00

Now that the hand painted wall paper is well under way, I have allowed myself to dream a little about what our bedroom could look like.....if I can buy a few new things!

Here's what I'm dreaming of...

It's calm, serene, and an elegant place of refuge...

The clean lines and elegant hardware of this Niche dresser from West Elm has held my attention and made me drool for over a year now! It's timeless and I know it's well made. It's a little late to ask Santa isn't it? I guess there's always next year....boooo!

AND I'm already tired of the suzanni headboard that I did last spring! I'm ridiculous! I figure a neutral linen headboard with nail head trim would be the perfect neutral backdrop for easily changed patterned pillows and bedding. It's so much less work to change a few pillows than to recover a headboard every year!

I'm also liking purples with the blue walls and might throw in a few touches...

pillow by Ivie Made on Etsy

Just a touch of color among some lux neutrals would be dreamy!

Thanks for stopping by and dreaming a little dream with me!

Traditions

2011-12-24T08:53:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!!!

It's Christmas Eve and I'm in my PJ's and I am NOT getting out of them!!

But it's ok.....you see, a few years ago, when my daughter was a teeny tiny baby, I accidentally started a new tradition by showing up at my Mom and Dad's house in my pajamas. I was tired and my clothes didn't fit after just having a baby, you know what I mean fellow Mommies, so I decided that dressing up just to go over to my Mom and Dad's house to eat and open presents was the stupidest thing ever!!

Everyone made fun of me and my pink plaid pants and cable knit slippers....."Nice pants!" and "Gee, don't get all fancy just for us Kelle"....it went on, but after everyone ate too much and their pants were all too tight, and I was all comfy, I didn't hesitate to say "Who's laughin now suckas??" (yeah I'm real classy like that)

The moral of the story: it's now a requirement to wear pajamas on Christmas Eve, the more ridiculous the better, or you're not welcome at Chuck and Denise's house!

Some Ralphie pajamas might be taking it a little far...

BUT I will take that leg lamp!!

ALL of these from Victoria's Secret fit the bill....

How about a union suit.....

I love this combo with plaid shorts!!

and I just need these....or else....

My next move towards a new tradition is ordering pizza. You know some years you wish you could ditch all the cooking and skip the task of cleaning it all up!!

Do you have any silly traditions? AND do I dare ask what you would change if you could??

Patience!!

2011-12-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

The sun finally came out and shined it's pretty face on us for a little bit the other day!

That means I finally had the opportunity to take better pics of my hand painted Moroccan Marrakesh trellis wallpaper....

Here's a recap of this project for those who missed my first post.....last year!!

I found the template for the design on Emily Jones' website: Jones Design Company. You can download the template HERE.

You trace the template many MANY many times. Until you feel your eyes crossing and you have visions of Moroccan tiles dancing around your head. Yep. It drives you a little crazy!

BUT you will eventually have a wall covered in some fabulous Marrakesh!

Only 1.5 walls to go and I'll be able to say "Hoooooooray!! I'm done!! AND I'm NEVER doing that to myself ever again!!!"

Until then....wish me patience :)

The Happiness Project

2011-12-14T10:45:00.000-08:00

It's #1 on the New York Times best seller list and I happened to pick up a copy a few weeks ago at the airport while waiting for a flight to Vegas. Why would I? Honestly, I don't know. Maybe the cover is pretty, or maybe it's because I know I can be happier, or maybe because I just like to learn about myself and life. It doesn't matter. What does matter is that it's a great book and it's making me get stuff done!!

The Author, Gretchen Rubin, lists her own 12 Commandments that she lives by, and one of those commandments is "Do what ought to be done". Nothing gets in the way of happiness like nagging tasks that hang around in the back of your head and make you feel guilty for not finishing them!

It's like those unfinished tasks are the blocks at the base of a pyramid. Everyday life gives you plenty of blocks to deal with and if you have too many blocks already started at the base of the pyramid then you're that much closer to that block at the top that is gonna send you over the edge! Once you're there....it's just too late! Before you even realize what's going on, you've already bit everyone's heads off and eaten an entire bag of cheetos!!! That does not equal happiness!!

One such nagging task of mine was this:

the hand painted design for the walls in our bedroom (and unpainted trim)....it's been a year!! Probably more than a year!! Every day I wake up and this project is staring me in the FACE, taunting me!!! NOT a good way to start a happy day!! So, I made the decision to just do what ought to be done!

It took about two days, and an entire bag of cheetos, but I finished this wall!!!

Here is a crappy picture:

There just isn't any natural light this week! It's gloomy times ten! I'm going to do another post of our room once the walls are completely finished and once there is some sunlight. I need some portfolio worthy shots!

I still have the wall behind our bed to complete, but now that I've got the process down, it should be a snap! I've gotta keep the momentum going even if the wall to be finished is behind the bed and won't be staring me in the face every morning.

Speaking of nagging tasks, remember this unfinished project....???

It was another task in the back of my head driving me crazy!

So, I finally put together my own version of a dry erase board. It's a frame from Goodwill that I sprayed white and a piece of plain white mat board with black ribbon to create the columns. The mat board is behind glass and I just use window markers to write down all the projects.

It feels awesome to check items off the list!!

I had an empty space at the end of the board...and then my daughter started hanging up her artwork in this very lovely spot. Sometimes she adds the perfect touch!

Another thing checked off the list and one less nagging task bringing me down!!

There are a few more tasks on the list at the moment but the most exciting ones for me are:

The vine that needs to be turned into a lamp......

like this....

AND the fabulous chair that needs it's legs and a pretty skirt....

I'm so over this hanky look already and I'm wanting a simple box pleated skirt. It will make for a timeless classic that can be spiffed up with a hanky pillow or some other "easily removable and changeable" accessory.

I have my work cut out for me!

If you are wondering about this Happiness Project, I say buy the book! It never hurts to try to be happier, although, I will admit that much like dieting and exercising, it is always harder to actually apply the knowledge, but people are always saying that everything worth doing is probably going to be hard.

I'll keep you all posted on my progress and if you want to learn more about The Happiness Project, the author has a great blog. Just click : The Happiness Project

Get Your Holiday Frock On!!!

2011-12-09T16:58:00.001-08:00

You know what's perfect for lots of Holiday eating and drinking???

A moo-moo!!!

Think of all the room you'll have to stuff in some extra pie and ice cream!! They're genius!!! They hide your full tummy and expose your skinny parts!!

Some people refer to moo-moo's as hostess gowns. I don't care what you call them, I just know I'm making me one!

You can get yourself one of these at Society Social....

Or you can make one in a snap! McCalls has a very similar pattern...number 5855 to be exact...but you probably don't even need one if you're a handy sewer. I will also be making a shorter version for summer time!! You'll have to stay tuned for that!

And I need a pair of these....

or these.....

From Zara

You can even change out the belt when ever you feel like it!!

Also from Zara

and then you need a super bling-y hostess ring!!! I want ALL of these!!! From HERE.....HINT HINT!!!

sometimes you gotta spell it out for them!!

Then I need one of these...

from J.Crew.

AND I would take ANY of these...

also from J.Crew.

AND a clutch of course....

AND last but not least, I'm gonna load myself up one of these....

....BRING it Holidays!! I'm ready!!

What are you gonna wear??

My Kind of Tree!!

2011-12-05T11:51:00.001-08:00

I confess.

I was NOT in the mood to decorate for the Holidays this year. For some reason I just couldn't get into it and I refuse to do things that I'm just not feeling because I know that whatever I'm attempting to work on, just won't come out right.

And then the leopard print ribbon happened!!

I was at Steins standing near the ribbon with my daughter and my Mom while they happily and excitedly looked at holiday decor. I was bored.....and then the leopard ribbon said to me, "Psssst!! Kelle....wouldn't I be a fun and sassy touch for your boring tree???"

"Hmmmm.....depends on how much you cost. What kind of a deal are we talkin?"

It said "I'm 20% off and I'm already on CLEARANCE!!"

"Say WHAAAT?!?"

I looked around as if there would be a sudden swarm of leopard print ribbon lovers and hurriedly swept up three rolls!! They were only $4.50 for a 10ft roll!!

I think I'm one step closer to my dream tree!!!

Barbie really knows how to decorate a tree! Why not pull out some of your fancy shoes from the closet and use them as ornaments?!? You might think that's just totally insane, but you know what?? Barbie would.

I love the combo with my hand painted Indian ornaments

Especially with this pink one!

I'm not showing the whole tree because I can't find our tree skirt AND because my daughter keeps "decorating" the lower half of the tree! :) I just found one of her headbands on a branch this morning....no one knows what could be next! Maybe some real Barbies that will most likely be naked or wearing their clothes backwards.

So there you have it....a Kelle Dame kind of tree! All I need now are some more Barbie ornaments, some vintage pink ornaments, and some pearly white lights and maybe some fancy old spoons and chandelier crystals!! Now I'm getting in the spirit!!

Were you feeling the Holiday decorating "meh's" or were you more than excited?

I'll keep you posted if I have any other conversations with ribbon or other craft supplies.

Hidden Talent is Not So Hidden

2011-11-30T18:10:00.001-08:00

The best part about what I do is getting to meet some really interesting and talented people.

Sometimes, I am aware of a person's hobby or career but I never really get to see exactly what they do. Other times, I do get to see what they do......and I am pleasantly surprised........

....amazed even....

Meet my friend Duke.

.... a local artist that has recently won my affections.
His real name is Richard Kruse, but everyone calls him Duke.

I met Duke one Tuesday evening while working at ArtWorks in downtown Kenosha. Tuesday evenings are pretty important to Duke. Not only because he might run into me and I might giggle at him, but because it's the night he gets together with other local friends and artists for figuring drawing class in the basement studio gallery at ArtWorks.

My favorite piece by the Duke.....

It's the colors, the shadows, the way her hair is blowing. I can almost smell the summer air.

The funny thing is, even though Duke has been around for 88 years and coming to ArtWorks for figure drawing classes for over 3 years, not many people were aware of his tremendous body of work, and not many people outside of his own family were aware of how magnificent his work really is.

That all changed last month after Duke had a solo showing at the ArtWorks gallery. The show featured the majority of his entire life's work including paintings, drawing, prints, and sculptures.

Duke paints in such a way that at first glance you would swear they are done in pastels.

This piece titled "Black Bear" immediately brought to mind the last issue of Elle Decor.....it would look amazing anywhere, but especially in an environment such as this....

I love the contrast and the shadows in these two pieces!

***sold***

Another piece I am dying for.....

The red sweater and the red fingernails....so me!

One piece that sold very quickly......

It's his sassy humor that gets me!

Love the colors in his prints.....

A lino print titled, "Lost in Thought" also sold.

And the pieces my husband and I purchased from the show.....

"A Polish Princess"

and

"Love That Tie!!" because I'm such a sucker for bow ties! This piece will find it's home in my front living room that will hopefully look similar to this one by the time I'm finished with it.........

I would love to own more pieces and someday I most certainly will.

I hope all of these pieces find a beautiful home and I hope I can help at least a couple of them find new homes with my clients! It was a little baffling to us all that such a great artist has been right under our nose!!

I hope I have inspired you to go in search of the hidden talent in your neck of the woods!

Backwards

2011-11-03T08:53:00.000-07:00

Sometimes things are just sdrawkcab!!

You know how our seasonal decor usually reflects the landscape around us??

Well, with a colorless season fast approaching, I'm not exactly feeling all bright and sunny inside.

I say "pooh pooh" to that!

via Armas Design...a painting by this fabulous gal is a MUST HAVE for me someday!

via pinterest pinmarklet

Sometimes, I don't decorate for the changing seasons OR the holidays. I just can't do it, if I don't "feel" it.

Anyway, it's important that my surroundings reflect how I'm feeling and how I'm feeling doesn't always match the colors of the season.

via House Beautiful

How's this for color saturation?

Winter makes me crave bold colors.......

via Mariska Meijers

and NOT the typical bold colors associated with the holidays.

Don't you love Mariska's work. She's not afraid of color and she's not afraid to go all out with the things she loves! So will my house look like winter? No. It will look like me and all my musings!

Do you really like to decorate for the Holidays or is it more of an obligation??

I'm signing off for awhile to rearrange some things and get some stuff done!!! No more slacking or procrastinating! There's too much fabulous to be done!

Procrastination

2011-10-24T11:41:00.000-07:00

I'm totally procrastinating about working on Bailey's valance.

I don't know why.

It's just so easy to get distracted....

IN LOVE with this room! via decorpad. There's probably no cheetos aloud in this room.

AND...IN love with that chair on the right....via Decorology

ARTful living via deliciously determined....again no cheetos...

So cozy looking...via jasdesignbuild & junkgarden via flickr. You could totally eat cheetos on that couch!

Perfectly rustic....via [me]longings...me longing too!

crisp white, lovely textures, and plant life perfectly placed with art....via flickr???

Complete coolness via Cococozy and Robert Dutesco art.

Look at those hide covered ottomans!!!

Perfectly eclectic via whythisworks....

Notice the theme?? I see a white couch in my future. I also foresee a slipcover....or two!

Did you notice that my brain has already moved on to decorating our front living room!!!

I know!!!

I need to HOLD my HORSES!!! and FOCUS!!! Do you see that blue ottoman with the nail head trim??? AND that HUGE piece of art??? swoon....

See?!?!

Focus Kelle...Focus!!

That was much easier before blogging!

Must work on valance!!

Bailey's Room Continued....

2011-10-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

Here's another little section of Bailey's room!

Opposite her bed is her armoire and a fabulous pink chair!

The pink harp back chair is also from Embellished Heart. My friend Tori is currently in a very pink mood and it's coming out all over her store! I love it!! I used more of the leftover Annie Selke fabric to cover the seat.

The armoire was NOT always black. It took a layer of BIN primer and 5 coats of black to get this baby all black and shiny! I also replaced the hardware with shiny glass knobs from Hobby Lobby.

This butterfly piece is something EXTRA special! The butterflies were hand embroidered by my great Grandmother Mayme Kamm. I've had them since I can remember and I wanted to do something special with them and also keep them protected, so I decided to have them framed. I'll let you guess where!

I thought it would be completely appropriate to put a picture of Mrs. Kamm herself, right smack in the middle. That's my mom standing beside her. I have an image of myself standing beside her when I was in first grade and I swear Gramma Kamm still looked the same! She was a completely fabulous woman and she was quite possibly the source for all the irresistible sassiness and the "I ain't takin no crap" attitude that all of us ladies in the family seem to have!!

The other two pieces that flank the butterfly are from Bailey's favorite story, Madeline's Bad Hat.

A little peak at Bailey's closet....more on that to come later!

Look at her face! Is that not exactly how we scowl at stupid boys?

Ok.

Maybe it's my favorite story too.

I've known a few bad hats in my day and that little Pepito cracks me up! I can't help but see myself and little Bailey in the sassy spirit of Madeline. Especially when she rips into the poor mangled Pepito for being a horrid little brat.

As for what's on top of the armoire...

...another goofy little owl from Embellished Heart and some big storage books with covers from vintage Child Life magazines. There is so much to love about these!! They are cute, smart, and super colorful, while being completely affordable. This set of three cost about $12 at HomeGoods.

Aren't they the CUTEST??

LOVE the purples and greens in this one!!

I could do an entire room design based on this cover.

They aren't something that you see everyday, especially as storage pieces. That's why I was like "YOINK! You little guys are comin home with me!!"

Still to come is Bailey's closet and the window area beside her bed. I'm STILL working on the window valance, but it's going to be done soon! The drapes however, will not, so I'll just have to show you how it looks with the sheers. I can't wait! I better get in the basement and finish painting!!

I hope you all are having a fabulous week!

At Last....

2011-10-14T15:57:00.000-07:00

I hope you're sitting down with a cup of coffee because I'm happy to announce that Bailey's much anticipated big girl room is finally ready for it's big reveal!!

I must admit, I've been fussing over all the little details for weeks now and I've realized that I could fuss forever**.

**(I probably will fuss forever, but not just about this room, but many other rooms. I already have one in mind...Shhh! Don't be telling the hubs on me!!! )

I'm going to break up the reveal into a few different posts because there is just SO MUCH to talk about!!
I want you to have all the details!!

Anyway, without further adieu. Here's little Missy B's room....

TA DAAAA!!!

or as Bailey would say "Here'd dit dis!!!"

Can you believe all of this started with this...

.....just a plan.

Give my man some plywood and some power tools and look at what can happen!!

I went with a simple and timeless palette of black and white mixed with playful pinks, minty greens, and touches of yellow and turquoise blue. The black and white pieces will stand the test of time as I'm sure my daughter will want to redecorate about as often as I do. If she suddenly hates pink, there are only a few pieces that will need to be recovered or painted.

In case you didn't notice...we are big fans of the letter B in this family.

Not just because Bailey starts with a B, but because all of her favorite things start with B...

Butterflies, Birdies, Barbies, Baby dolls, Blocks, Books, and Bubbles in the Bathtub!! Let's not forget her Big Brother named Benny who is a Bug-eyed Boston Terrier.

There's the bohemian glass chandelier in all it's glory!!

The floral pillows are not the same floral that I talked about using. That's because the Amy Butler floral that I was first going to use was fighting with me. It was clashing with some things and not showing up well on camera. Taking pictures and sharing what I do is very important in my career, so if a fabric fights with me, it gets tossed out of the plan. Let that be a lesson to all the other trouble making fabrics out there!! If you wanna be on the Kelle show you better look good on camera!!

Anyway, enough with my fabric rant, the floral fabric that you do see is called Shalini Ivory Raspberry by Annie Selke and I got it here : HouseFabric.com

The pink and white geometric fabric on the bolster pillows is called Links Pink, and also by Annie Selke and the white fabric with the black polka dots is a Duralee designer fabric, and I purchased those through Paperdolls Interiors, which is located in Lake Geneva Wisconsin. It's one of my go to sources for fabulous fabrics!

The solid pink pillow is from Embellished Heart and I made the solid black pillows out of some nice wool crepe I had stored away in the basement. I knew it would come in handy some day!

Coordinating Baby Doll dress by Gramma....she knows what's up!!

Birdie lamps, also from Gramma.
All they needed was some spray paint and new shades and voila! Lamps that look like PB kids lamps for $17 each!! Can't beat that!

A Barbie plaque is a MUST!!!! This one in particular was made by Sara of Simply Sara event planning and custom stationary services. Sara recently made the invites and several decorations for Bailey's third birthday party ( I will post more about that later) and this Barbie plaque was my FAVORITE piece!! If you want Sara to make you one, just send me a message and I'll get you more info.

More pillows. I just can't help it sometimes.

Some little birdies in pink frames from Embellished Heart and a page featuring Miss Clavel from a vintage Madeline book had to make an appearance!!

A fabulous Louis frame from ArtWorks.....wait...ALL the fabulous frames in this room
are from ArtWorks!!

I'm COMPLETELY in LOVE with this piece!! The mat and frame combination was beautifully put together with scrap pieces of mat boards left over from other projects. I love it when things come together with materials that you already have. Sometimes working with what you have narrows down an overwhelming selection just perfectly.

(I too wake up in the middle of the night feeling like something just is not right)

Now what in the world is on these bookshelves??

Bailey's vast collection of books and some little friends....

Hoot Hoot he's cute!! He's from Embellished Heart too!!

And that little white birdie....her name is Zsa Zsad...Bailey names everything.

AND up on top....

....are the books I don't want her to get her hands on just yet. Like, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, her baby scrap book, and her daddy's books on how to make wooden baby toys.

A purty little flower and her Swiss Piggy Bank...it's seriously from Switzerland ( I didn't have the pleasure of tagging along with the hubs on that business trip.....sadness happens when I think about that....oh well...I'll go next time!) it even has a key! This pig means business!!

More vintage books on the other side....

AND A moss ball lovingly made by her Aunt Jess at 2am in the morning!! We were scrambling to get everything ready for the party the night before the room reveal!! I'll never forget how insane we all were about getting this room done!

***Notice the Elementary Technical Mathematics Book??? Only my ~~dorky~~ smart hubs would make sure she has that! The books she will inherit from me have much prettier pictures in them!

I must also mention that these....

....drawer fronts were made out of cabinet doors! Remember how I was the designer for my MIL's entire first floor overhaul?? Well, some of the cabinet doors got the kabosh because of minor defects. She let my hubs take them home and figured he would do something with them...like build Bailey a cool little fort....well he didn't build a fort, but he DID turn them into these fabulous drawer fronts!! He cut them down to the correct size (thereby removing said defects) and voila, free drawer fronts!!! Sometimes the fact that he keeps everything drives me INSANE, but these purty little drawer fronts are proof that he does indeed have good reason. My mouth = shut!!

Next to her bed is the special dresser that was once in my Mother's room, and then in my room, and now in Bailey's room....

I love that the dresser got a brand new life and it provides a lovely pop of minty fresh green!!

The round beaded knobs are from Hobby Lobby and the glass pulls are from Anthropologie. The oval mirror is from Home Goods.

As for the top of the dresser....a fabulous girl must always be ready for a tea party!!

I made some tea towels with the left over fabric scraps and I used a special serving plate as a tray. The plate was one of the first plates that my Mother purchased when she moved out and got her own place. It just goes to show that black and white truly never goes out of style!

The Peter Rabbit tea set was a gift from her fabulous Aunt Jess and the milk glass vase is from Goodwill and cost a whopping $2!!

The white tea towel was one of my fabulous finds in my Aunt Deta's basement! If you missed that post you can read it by clicking HERE.

So, there you have it. The first peak at Miss Bailey's room!! I hope you love it as much as we do! Stay tuned next week for the rest of the room reveal!!

Almost There!!

2011-10-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd give you another sneak peak to hold you over for a few more days!!

My brilliant hubs discovered a use for these vintage door knobs!!!

This was me: "OH crap!! I didn't get hardware for the drawers!!"

The hubs : "DUH! You already have some!"

Me: "What??? I DO??..... NO!!! I am NOT using the HIDEOUS hardware from the old kitchen!!"

( I tend to jump to the most horrifying conclusions)

The hubs: "NO you crazy lady! I'm not talking about those!"

He went into the pantry, where I hide my secret stash of vintage door knobs ( I don't know why I hide them cuz I'm pretty sure there aren't any doorknob swipers out there) and he said "We can use these!"

Me: "You're a GENIUS!!! I knew there was a reason I married you!!"

We should have a reality show.

Anyway, I'm still hard at work on this room. The hubs still has a wooden window valance to build, and I still have the accessorizing, and the wall art to perfect, so it's gonna be a few more days....I'm even still shopping!! Good thing I'm not waiting to reveal this room until my Mother finishes the drapes or else you'd all be waiting till Christmas!

I learned to NEVER rush my Mother when she has to sew something. You CANNOT rush perfection!! So, I will show her room with just the polka dotted sheers. They are super cute, so I'm completely ok with that! Now my Mother can take her time and I can wait patiently until 2012!!

ok. Maybe it won't take THAT long.

Hang tight Y'all!!

Bailey Helps....

2011-10-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

We put our 3 year old to work.....

.....she's my little design assistant....

Always happy and eager to help.

**Notice the vintage Barbie t-shirt***

She wanted to create her own designs for her pillows.....so she layed out her paper like this on the floor....all by herself....she likes to line things up and organize already....wuh oh!!!

BUT instead of pillow designs, she ended up doing a series of funny faces, which may in fact, inspire a goofy line of pillows....we'll see!!

She even has some pretty strong opinions on design.

This lamp for example....

...it wasn't always white. My Mom gave this pair of lamps to me years ago and I saved them because I knew I would have a use for them some day. They were a dark brown, so I initially sprayed them black. Well, she didn't like the black. She said, "I don't want black Mommy. The black looks scary. I want white."

I must say. She was right. They look more sculptural and sweet in white. She knows what she wants. Just liker her Mommy :)

Thanks to her help and the help from a few dear friends and family members, her room is practically finished.......finally!!! There were many late nights spent building, painting, and sewing, but it all came together just in time for Bailey's birthday party!!

I am working on the photo shoot this week and I can't wait to share it with all of you!! Thank you all for your kind words and support as we went crazy putting this room together! You are all such fabulous and inspiring friends!!! Stay tuned this week to see her finished room!!

Progress Report

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

We have been busy busy bees these past few weeks and we are finally seeing a little glimpse of that light at the end of the tunnel!!

It might not look like much, but it took A LOT of hard work to get to this point!!

By hard work, I mean tears, and scratches, and slivers, and puncture wounds, etc.

Thanks to my super handy man and Miss Bailey herself.....

...helping fill nail holes....

...she's a natural!

We will be putting the finishing touches on this baby in no time!!

I was up into the wee hours of the morning painting the headboard onto the wall...

I decided to paint the headboard onto the wall rather than construct one out of wood and fabric because three year-olds are messy and they can spontaneously erupt at any moment. This option is also free if you happen to already have the coordinating paint. The super special bonus is that this option doesn't make more work for my already overloaded worker bee. Everyone wins!

One more coat and she'll be done!

AND all of the fabrics have arrived!!

It's time to get out the sewing machine!!

I hope you're all having a fabulous week!

The Hopeless Romantic

2011-10-02T22:45:00.000-07:00

....it's what I've named this lovely little lady.....

Can you blame me??

I squealed when I saw it at Embellished Heart last Friday.

Yeah. I squeal. I get excited!

It was love at first sight!!!

Look at all the little details!!

Tori, the owner of Embellished Heart, is also the talented hand behind the painting of this chair. She doesn't miss one single little detail!! She is sure to give every piece she touches a brand new, completely fabulous life!!

I'm SO in love with this chair and it goes in our bedroom perfectly, but the hubs is less thrilled than I.

NOT because it's too girly.....I know what some of you are thinking!! We already know who runs the decor show around this house! The truth is, he isn't thrilled about having another piece of furniture in our room because our room is tiny, and I swear he is claustrophobic, so I have a decision to make.

Should I keep her and squeeze her into our room, or should I love her, but let her go, and maybe, one day, if it's meant to be, she'll come back to me???

What's a hopeless romantic to do?

My Kind of Happy!

2011-09-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

There are so many little things that make me happy, like fancy bubbly water, salted caramel lattes, and pumpkin cake doughnuts, but pulling a room together with happy colors is my FAVORITE kind of happy!!

I love fresh and happy color palettes and crisp whites with little speckles of black!

This is where Bailey's color palette started....

Amy Butler's Soul Blossom fabric in Cilantro

I love vintage finds with fabulous bling-y touches!! I love transforming a piece of furniture and watching it come alive with a completely different personality.

With that said, I was on the hunt for a dresser for Bailey's room. One that I could find on the cheap and fix up. I thought I had one in mind, but then my Mom came to the rescue and also helped save my budget!

She told me I could do something that I never in a million years thought she'd tell me to do!!

She told me I could do whatever I wanted with this dresser:

I was like "Whaaaat?? You crazzzy!"

This isn't just any old dresser. It's one of the dressers my Mom had in her room when she was little. Her mother bought it for her and her sister Deta, back in 1963. My Mom's mom was quite a fabulous lady, and just like me, she wasn't exactly rolling around in money, but she still believed in buying yourself the best that you can. Even if that means saving for a long time. So she saved. She slowly bought their bedroom piece by piece over the years. There is a total of three dressers, a desk, and a matching mirror.

It's in great condition seeing as how it's been in use for over 48 years!! I grew up with the same furniture in my room. It even followed me to my first apartment! Now it will be in Bailey's room. ...is that special or what?!?! Three generations of fabulous gals!!

Now, I bet you wanna see what I did with it...

...it was actually a little painful to paint over the beautiful maple....but I did it....keeping in mind that situations like this is why paint stripper exists.....anyway.....I'm only gonna share a couple pics because it isn't completely finished yet.....

Notice any missing drawer pulls??? hmm??

P.S. You know what doesn't make me happy??? Broken drawer pulls!!!

Dear Anthropologie,

I'm sad. I'm especially sad that I paid $12 for each of these drawer pulls. When I purchased them it was because I wanted to be able to OPEN my drawers, fabulously mind you, and NOT because I wanted to spend nine hours shortening bolts that are long enough to play swords with! AND I did NOT order them because I wanted to experiment with creating proper locking mechanisms between metal and glass. The sort that would actually lock the handle to the hardware where it belongs in the first place. Thanks to your crappy pulls, my dresser will look sad until this handle is fixed. Which could be awhile, because the hubs is really busy, and I don't know anything about locking mechanisms, and I have zero time to exchange them for hardware that actually works.

Enough sadness about the hardware....this is a HAPPY
post!!

I'm also going to put some coordinating fabric down in the drawers...

More Amy Butler fabric....just for fun!

The paint color of the dresser is called Reclining Green from Sherwin Williams.
I happily paid homage to the colors of the 60's!!

It totally makes me think of Anne Taintor...

and kitchens inspired by the 60's

via Lovely Little Henley

Most of my family thinks that I go over board with all things pretty, but I believe in surrounding yourself with all kinds of pretty. I want my daughter to know that she is beautiful and that she deserves beautiful things and all the beauty that life has to offer her.

I may be creating a princess....but I often tell my single girl friends that we will always be treated exactly like the princess that we believe ourselves to be. Good princesses or bad. It may not seem like it to them at the time, but there is always the supply to meet the demand, so why not demand the best!

That's it for now! We are working like mad crazy people on this room so I'll have more to post soon!!
I hope you all have a fabulous week!

The Loot!!!

2011-09-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

I've been a shopping maniac!!

Here is the loot for Miss Bailey's room so far:

A Bohemian glass chandelier....sorry the pic is so small!

Here it is in person...

I was surprised to find it at Lowes. Usually I don't fall for any of their lighting, but this one was perfect.

It was $159, which didn't really make me happy because I was wanting to spend more like $100...but it's just so darn cute!!! I might be adding a little Kelle Dame touch....you'll see later!

AND some hardware for her soon to be dresser (more on that special piece later)...

the Pipeline handle from Anthropologie and these three lovely pieces....

...all from Hobby Lobby at 50% off! I wish you could see just how sparkly they are. The eye shaped knob is all the rage right now! It's gonna start popping up everywhere! I can't wait to see it on her armoire! First I have to re-finish it! I'm not looking forward to that project :( Where's the button that allows you to jump to the end result??

Here is the dresser I'm working with....

I'll do an entire post on this piece later. It's a really special piece and it honestly kills me to paint it because look at that gorgeous maple!! Believe it or not, I helped re-finish this dresser when I was about 12 years old! You see, I have been doing this my whole life!! There are at least two other pieces just like it, so I don't feel AS BAD painting it...yes, I'm using that as my justification! AND my good friend Tori says that I'm giving the next generation something to do!

I also found some Euro pillows and shams on clearance at Marshalls!!

$19.99 each! It's hard to even find an insert for that price!!

And a mirror for above the dresser:

From HomeGoods for $50. I loved the pearly details!

And I'm about three seconds from buying one of these quilts from Serena and Lily

The soft colors help calm down the rest of the bright colors going on in her room. I just wince a little at spending $180 on a quilt!!! BUT if it must be done, then I'll do it. I know it's of superb quality and all, I just have to make sure I can't find something similar for less. It's in my DNA, what can I say!

So that is what I have so far...there is much more to come!! I'm getting excited! My hubs has starting building the bed and we've even primed a few pieces! I love watching it all come together.

Hope you're all having a fabulous week!!

It's Getting Crazy Round Here!!

2011-09-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

Remember when I said I would like Bailey's Big Girl room done by her birthday??

Well....I was only about half serious.....knowing how completely ridiculous giving ourselves such an insane deadline was. My hubs, on the other hand.....is VERY SERIOUS!!! He is determined and he means BUSINESS!!! I mean look:

Does this not look completely serious?

If I show any sign of doubt or hesitation, I am quickly reprimanded with a statement like this, "Kelle!!, You either get on this crazy train with me and decide that we're gonna get this done, or the crazy train is gonna leave without you!!!"

Usually, this is my role, but this time, he took it from me. Now we're all going insane trying to get this room done in two weeks!!

Did I mention I haven't even painted yet?????

Also, did I happen to mention that I went crazy coo coo bananas over the decor for this birthday party???? I mean the invitations are fancier than my wedding invitations were! I will share all the lovely hand-made details made for us by a fabulous friend very soon!

I'll keep you all posted with the progress as the crazy train keeps pluggin along!

The Mirror etc.

2011-09-15T10:24:00.000-07:00

I hate to do a post and not give the proper shout outs to my peeps!

Just in case you're wondering where some of these things came from....

this fabulous mirror came from my favorite little boutique Embellished Heart. Tori, the owner of this fabulous little joint, is the one who wrote the Leonard Cohen quote on the mirror. If I were to write on the mirror, you wouldn't be able to read it!! You see, I scribble. It's pretty scribbling mind you, but it's always illegible to everyone but me.

These other special things came from Embellished Heart as well...

The little Bailey's mugs...

AND the dainty little mint dish...

I must also mention that just about every frame you see in this room...

is from ArtWorks Kenosha. Most are ready made frames that I dug out of the basement. Some were painted and some were left as is. Only one frame came from Goodwill and that is the frame on the sketch of the dining bench. Don't you just love finding great things at goodwill!!

AND that fun little moss ball...

came from an ABSOLUTELY DREAMY store in Chicago called Mecox. They have at least 7 other locations if you want to find one near you! I was not only lured into the store by the wonderful things in the window, but also by the cute little doggie that keeps a look out for new customers! If they use the dog as a cute mascot, it totally works!!

So there are my shout-outs!!

I hope you all have a fabulous Thursday!!

My Favorite Room!

2011-09-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

I am guest posting today over at Cottage and Vine about my favorite room!

I knew exactly which room I would share when Rene asked for guest posts for her Favorite Room Series.

Here's a little sneak peak!!

To see the rest, stop by Cottage and Vine!

You're sure to love this series!!

Stair Risers

2011-09-13T08:32:00.000-07:00

The blank canvas that was the stairway of my ArtWorks project is coming along...

There are a few more risers with lettering to complete, but I wanted to share the progress.

The lettering directs you to the gallery located upstairs. A fun alternative to the usual sign posted on the wall.

To refresh your memory, here is a before shot:

See. Completely blank canvas!

At the bottom of these stairs is the entry to the shop...the design for which, is still in the works...

This area is the first thing customers see, so it has to make a good first impression and it has to introduce the overall aesthetic of the store while giving customers necessary information. Like where the gallery is located and what events and classes are going on at the moment.

Soon there will be an information board and some unique art added to the stairway! I can't wait to see it all come together!! I also can't wait to be finished with the stenciling because let me tell you, it's not fun!!! Those letters on the risers were not easily done. It took a few tries to get nice clean lines, but I learned, and now I can stencil anything! Not that I want to. Trust me. Not even something pink!

The secret that took several letters to learn is to use a dabber and apply a few VERY light layers of paint...slowly!!

I hope you're all having a great week! I will be guest posting about my favorite room over at Cottage and Vine later this week! Make sure to stop by and check it out!!

Embellished Heart = Happiness!!

2011-09-10T16:48:00.000-07:00

Can money buy happiness??

Well according to my personal research, it most certainly can.....

....especially the sort of happiness that lights up....

...and twinkles... like this crystal drop lamp!!

AND

in the form of popping pink George Jetson chairs!!!

P.S. it's pink upholstery is the ORIGINAL upholstery and it's in fabulous condition. I wish I could have a tour of the home that this came from. Obviously someone with great taste owned this chair and you all KNOW I was dying to take this little sass of a chair home with me!! Alas, I did not. We have a fabulous toddlers room to complete. Focus Kelle!! FOCUS!!

AND happiness does come in the form of chic prints....

**that also have pink in them....AND....

...chic lamps with printed shades

These treasures are all from Embellished Heart, my favorite little boutique in downtown Kenosha.

It's my first stop when I'm working on a project because I know I will always find something that makes me smile and plenty of things that are truly beautiful and unique. I've mentioned this little shop a few times before and featured some of my purchases in a few of my projects, and you are bound to see and hear more as I work on Bailey's room because I have my eye on quite a few things that are really gonna make her room sing!! Can't wait to share more!

Picker Sisters

2011-09-07T08:08:00.000-07:00

I know I was just raving and rambling about The Help, well.....

now I'm gonna rave and ramble about the Picker Sisters!!

Have you seen it yet??

It stars Tracy Hutson and Tanya McQueen from Extreme Makeover Home Edition.

They travel together across the country "picking" hidden treasures out of the most unlikely places and then bring them back home to L.A., where their contractor Alan, is waiting to get started on the projects they have dreamed up. Once these one of a kind pieces are fabricated, they land in their AWESOME store front called I-10....take a peak...

You wouldn't believe what this stuff looked like before their fabulous selves got a hold of it!!

Those rolling white cage benches were these rusty old things!!!

p.s. Are they not the cutest pickers ever???

Notice the old radiator chair? Did you know the going rate for old radiators is $5/coil?? I would have never guessed!

That coffee table is made of 1500 lbs of metal chain! And that cow photo..imagine finding an old sign and turning it into a light box for any photo image!! Genius!!

If you haven't seen it and you've been waiting to start a new addiction... it's on Tuesday nights 10/9c on My Lifetime.

Big SMOOCHES to my hubby for catching this show and thinking of me!

He even set the dvr and got the wine ready for me!! He's such a keeper!!

Did you See it??

2011-09-05T16:53:00.000-07:00

The Help?? Did you see it?? or read it??

I know everyone says that the book is always better than the movie, but I think they were both absolutely fantastic! I couldn't put the book down and then I couldn't wait to see the movie! It's been a very long time since I've even cared so much about a book.

The characters are so lovable and real.

My favorite was sassy Minnie...

You don't mess with Minnie! She'll get you...some way...some how...

and Hilly's crazy mother...the one in the middle below...she loves it when her daughter gets her just desserts!! Oh that still cracks me up!!

And I loved seeing the book come to life....like seeing the character's homes from back in the 60's

The colors of the kitchens and the appliances. And that dinette set! Such a cute scene!

and hearing Skeeter's old typewriter....

And of course seeing all the BIG HAIR!!!

And let me not forget the saucy fashion of the "Marilyn-esque" Celia Foote...

Oh to have those curves!!

Her character was absolutely adorable and yes, she will bring you to tears!

In fact, most of this story will bring you to tears, but you will also laugh and start talking like you're from the south!! Oh Law! I've still got it in me!!

I can't say enough good things about this story, so GO! Right now! Get the book or see the movie and don't forget to bring your tissues cuz you're gonna need em!!! If not for your eyes, then for your bra, because Miss Celia is gonna leave you craving more curves!!

Air Vents

2011-09-02T11:05:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!!

And a happy Friday it is!! This week I have been very worried and distraught over a few things, one of them being an air vent. I know! Of all the things in life, you never suspect air vents...but those pesky air vents can certainly cause some trouble!! But not enough trouble to get in the way of my dreams! Not when I have such a smart Mr.!!!

You see, on the wall where Bailey's built-in daybed needs to go...there is a cold air return! This week I was certain that not being able to move that air vent had soiled my plan...but not so...

My hubby has a plan....you can see part of it circled above...I'm not sure what is going on there, but I do know that he knows what he's doing, so I'm just gonna leave it up to him...AND

now the entire plan involves a platform that the bed and the shelves will sit on in order to raise it up. The platform will also allow space for a hidden cold air return...a genius he is..isn't he??!! Phew!! He has saved the day again! Next is starting the construction and having to say goodbye to all the "baby" stuff in Bailey's room. I can't promise that there won't be any tears, but at least we're moving forward to a much smarter, organized, and fabulous place!

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend!!

And if I may suggest....I really recommend going to see The Help or picking up the book! It is certainly all that it's cracked up to be and more!

Bailey's Room and Randomness

2011-08-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!

My Mr. has been hard at work designing the structure for Bailey's bed and bookshelves. Luckily he is able to use a design program at his office called Solid Works that allows him to make detailed 3-D models of my designs. I love this software because I can sketch out anything, from furniture to built-in cabinets, and he can take them to work and make all the necessary plans for my dreams to come to life!

Here is what we've got so far....

You will probably remember that our design is based on this room....

This room is actually similar in size to Miss Bailey's room, except for the taller ceilings!! I have to keep that in mind when shopping for a chandelier. In most bedrooms the chandelier goes above the bed so it can hang a little lower, but in Bailey's room we have to be able to walk underneath it so I am slightly limited.

This one from The Land of Nod has caught my eye...

I love it's vintage feel and i love how it will go with the black and white polka-dots!!

Her room is very small! I mean, it's not even 10 X 10, but that isn't any reason for it not to be as fabulous as possible! I'm a small room fan. There are so many good things about small spaces.
Here are a few of my favorites:

1. They take 2 minutes to vacuum.

2. They will limit your clutter because you won't have any other choice. Whatever you don't need or use constantly, has to go, unless you want to swim amongst your possessions.

3. They are the easiest to keep warm and cool.

4. They keep people close and intimate.

5. They are easier on the budget to decorate and totally revamp.

If you are living in a house that you don't feel is worthy of making beautiful because of it's size or because it isn't your "dream house". I would reconsider. ANY house can be your "dream house", it's just whether or not you will let it be.

Our bathroom is a VERY similar story. We had larger bathrooms in our first apartment!! Again, the same things apply. Especially my fifth point above. When you have 25 square feet of bathroom space, you can choose the most expensive tile there is and it still isn't going to be extremely expensive! ok. Maybe it will be, but you won't feel nearly as bad about it!

Since I'm randomly talking about my bathroom...here is my future bathroom...

(minus the window, the extra sink, the tv, and about 5 feet of counter space!!)

Still...it will be fabulous and I will feel like a queen!!

I'm off to priming Bailey's room! I hope you're all getting a great start to your week!

Bailey's Room

2011-08-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday !! I hope you all had a fabulous weekend!!!

I've been working on the soft layers of Bailey's room and this is what I've got so far...

Soul Blossom Fabric by Amy Butler in Cilantro

Black polka dot fabric from Carousel Designs

Annie Selke Fabric from Joann's

I still need these....

Especially this pink chevron print pillow!!

and one or two of these....

From Iviemade on Etsy. I love this shop!!

I just got these sheers...

from PBteen on sale!!

Bailey's window treatments will look very similar to these, but I will be taking some inexpensive white drapes and adding black ribbon trim to them instead of purchasing these. This idea will save me at least $200!!!
I am also designing a wooden valance similar to the ones I created for my previous client, Miss Emely...

Thank goodness we only have to do one for Bailey's room!!

AND I have these sheets from JCPenney...

Only $25 with an in-store coupon! My Mother advised me to get more than one set....smart mom...I'm still learning!

You'll notice that I have pulled fabrics from everywhere and that I combine different bedding items from different places. This is because I loathe bedding sets!! Even when I was 9 and re-decorating my bedroom each week (NO!! I surprisingly stopped doing that :) I would stay away from bedding sets. They're boring and stale and if you tire of the color scheme or pattern you have to re-buy EVERYTHING all over again! With mix and match bedding you may only tire of one or two pieces so it's less expensive to change your mind. Besides, it just looks more stylish and will truly reflect your individual style to pull things you love from all the places you love to shop.

I'll keep you posted on the rest and her closet is almost done! The wonky stripes are almost a bad memory!!

Sneak Peak

2011-08-15T08:05:00.000-07:00

"OH for the love of stripes!!!"
- It's what I'm gonna say the next time I'm frustrated with someone!

Here's a sneak peak of what I'm talking about...

Do you see some wonky lines?? I do!!

Every time I paint stripes, I remember that I hate painting stripes. And then I wonder "WHOSE great idea was it to paint stripes anyway???" Oh yeah. It was mine :(

It really doesn't help that the walls have sanded paint on them.

In MY world: Sand + Paint = Stoooopid

I must ask, who in the world thought it was a great idea to start putting sand in paint???? That makes about as much sense as dumping your grass clippings into your paint!! What's the point?? Besides having scratchy, bumpy walls?? Back in 1978 were there wall walkers that felt the need for traction? I don't understand.
Can you tell I'm frustrated with my sanded paint?!? :)

AND

There are many life lessons to be learned from the painting of stripes...

The most important one, that I ALWAYS forget, is to not focus on where you've already been, or where you currently are, but focus on where you are going. The only way to free hand a nice, straight, clean line, is to look ahead and keep going. If you forget that rule for just ONE second, your hand will stray and your line will look like you've painted it after having a couple drinks and losing an eye, just as our plans in life tend to get all crazy if we don't keep our eyes on the prize.

So, my lovely readers, I will keep looking forward, fix my wonky lines, forget the pain of this process, and then bask in the glory of Bailey's awesome closet!! Stay tuned for the final reveal!!

Bailey's Room

2011-08-12T08:29:00.000-07:00

I think I've got the plan together for Bailey's room!

The plan is to NOT have much of a plan!! Well, much of a color plan that is. If I know me, and I know my daughter, then I know our favorite colors are gonna change every week and if she's at all like me, and she IS, then she's gonna want to re-decorate her room every week! So the plan, is to not have a plan, and just go nuts with ALL her favorite colors!!!

Most of this OB palette inspiration came from a room I saw on The Simply Inspired Home. I loved the colors and all white blank palette. I might not stick with entirely white, we'll see...I like to throw in a subtle blue ceiling when I can!

These are fairly mature colors...

colors that she will certainly grow into as this palette works for girls of all ages.

and when Bailey feels too mature for flowers and butterflies....we'll just replace the few items with the motif!

Our palette will be mostly white and there will be pops of color in the furniture and accessories.

We'll be incorporating some Madeline prints...

Because we LOVE Madeline!!!

And some chevron and ikat dots because we LOVE them too...

pillow via Milk and Cookies on Etsy

I can officially get started and the Mr. is working on the built-ins that will kinda be like these....

Which we need, no matter how narrow they will be, because we have 900 million books to house!! The goal is to have her room complete by her birthday in October....we'll see about that!!

Have a fabulous weekend!! I'll be painting!!

Fall Fashion

2011-08-11T07:29:00.000-07:00

I've been dreaming...

Anthro Chiseled Wedge $168.00

Anthro Niko Wedge $328

Anthro Niina Mary-Janes $298.00

J.Crew Bryant Boots $248.00 (oh hubby!! My birthday is coming!!!)

I have a pair of these flats in pink and they are the most comfortable flats I have EVER owned. I would take these in ALL colors!

J.Crew Rainy Day Ballet flats $50 (way cheaper at the outlet!!)

AND

The Maisie dress looks really comfy and I LOVE that purple! $168.00

The Souvenir Dress...because it will be a souvenir that I will keep and wear forever! $148.00

I'm supposed to be at the gym. Now that I have my daydreaming out of the way I can get going!

What are you dreaming about for Fall??

Update: Kitchen Overhaul

2011-08-08T07:17:00.000-07:00

The kitchen overhaul at my in-laws is almost complete!!

There are still a couple layers missing, but I couldn't resist sharing the progress...

From vinyl to wood floors!!

It's so clean and elegant. It completely captures my Mother-in-laws style. Please excuse the "real world counter display"... these photos were taken during a bridal shower.

***Notice we still need the window trim installed and some window treatments***

These wooden canisters were made by George Dame, my husband's Grandfather, who spent hours each day in his wood shop creating all sorts of wooden master pieces. We all have several pieces made by George throughout our homes, whether they are wooden step stools, wooden baby toys, sculptural bowls, and canisters like you see above, they're all special and they remind us of him and his favorite hobby.

George passed away before my daughter was born, but he made sure to make several toys for his future great grandchildren. He gave them to his son, my husband's father, to keep and to be given as gifts to his great grandchildren once they were born. How thoughtful is that??

This is what the kitchen used to look like...

The pantry went from being a closet with bi-fold doors to a built-in cabinet.... now there is much more storage surrounding the refrigerator...

TA-DA!!

SO much better isn't it??? I have to admit this project was mostly an internet project for me. I simply guided my MIL through all of the decision making and helped her pick out the finishes. The final layers will be more hands-on. I can't wait!

We still have to add the finishing touches and I have a feeling I will be working on the back splash someday soon! I'm not gonna lie kids, I love to tile!!

More to come soon!!

Just Shopping

2011-08-02T08:02:00.000-07:00

Some days I just want to shop...

I'll take ALL of these from Luxury Monograms....and

These hand wall hooks from Plasticland....

These fabulous little paintings that were featured on Ada and Darcy...

and this mug from Corduroy....

This necklace and skirt from a place I can't remember....

AND I need this clutch!!!

I just bought all this stuff!....and by bought I mean "pretend bought"...

**Sigh **

Pop Pop Portraits

2011-07-30T17:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Weekend Everyone!!

Just wanted to give a shout out to the fabulous Helena over at Pop Pop Portraits and Krystal, the author of one of my favorite blogs, Village, cuz I won a fabulous giveaway a few weeks ago and I've gone and had my winnings framed!! The giveaway put on by these two fabulous gals included three portraits of my choice and a tote bag!!

Here are the three portraits I chose.

They make me smile and I love the colors!

Ro Ro and Ronald on the teeter totter...I would want people to call me Ro Ro if my name was Rosie...

Ro Ro and Ronald go on a road trip! Notice she has on fabulous red shoes!!

I've always wanted a pink flamingo named Ronald!

AND of course....I love thrifting!!!

I also love Ro Ro's cigarette pants!!

Here they are in their fabulous Louis style frames...

Aren't they purty??

All thanks to Mr. Awesome over at ArtWorks who takes care of all my framing needs AND lets me selfishly hoard all the Louis style frames to myself.

What crazy girl wrote her name all over the Louis frames in the basement??

Not me. It was some other Kelle.

Here's the one that found a new home in my little work space....

The other two will find their home very soon!

If you love these as much as me you should go check out Pop Pop Portraits and see which ones makes you happy. Helena can even do a custom portrait of you or your family! How fun would that be?!?

Thanks again to Krystal and Helena!! I just love the new addition to my work space! I have another reason to whistle while I work...even though I can't really whistle.

I Like You

2011-07-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

The CUTEST store in North East Minneapolis!!! Owned and operated by these two fabulous gals!

Here's just a few little snapshots of the cute stuff you will find in their shop....

I wanted one of these...especially the "you are my sunshine" one for Miss Bailey's room.

by Numsi design

It was even featured in DIY Magazine last winter.

I wish I had some photos of the interior of the store because it's ridiculously cute! They have AstroTurf carpet, vintage sun umbrellas hanging from the ceiling, and even a hot pink swing!!!

The store features several consignors that are also Etsy sellers. They have craft classes and can host crafty birthday parties in the back of the store.

Here are some of the things I brought home with me......

AND

a felted flower brooch for Miss Bailey

AND

A vintage brooch turned ring for me!!! Sorry my pics are so crappy!

If you happen to take a trip to Minneapolis or live in the area you need to visit this place! You won't be disappointed! Plan to spend some time cuz there is lots of cool stuff to see!

My New Crush

2011-07-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

I'm sure I'm 90 years behind the times by just now discovering Chive, the Toronto based glassware company that specializes in unique glassware vases that really make you stop and look. Ok....Maybe the company has only been around since 2004, but their fresh, innovative designs, are irresistible! They aren't ridiculously priced either.

It's a bit like they are paying me to talk about them, but really, they aren't...I kinda wish!! I'm just in love with the fluted vase that I found at a local boutique called Boobe.

It kinda looks like a glass Lego, but once you put flowers in it, the Lego appearance is hidden. Especially, if you do what I did, and go nuts with hydrangeas....

It's like the flowers are floating above the water.

I didn't REALLY fall in love with this vase until I realized that it's actually really functional. By functional, I mean, my daughter can't knock it over! She loves smelling flowers and nearly knocks over every vase that I put out. Then I get scared and move them somewhere safe. I don't have to with this one!

I can even put it on the ledges in the front hallway and it's not likely that anyone will knock it over.

**Notice that I said, "Not Likely" **

I will be the idiot who knocks it over with her huge purse!! BUT, do you see why I love it now??

They have others that my daughter (and I) wouldn't be able to knock over...

This one is called Goudie...and I love her!

Miss Bailey really can't knock over a vase that is nailed to the wall!!

This one is called a wall dot. A person could go nuts with these.

There are many more to love...

Who doesn't love some gun metal?

or a ray gun effect??

If I had my store I would carry these puppies!! Some day people...some day!!

Black, White, and Clay

2011-07-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

My ArtWorks project is coming along...

***Update: This piece is by a local artist, Carolyn Gagliardi***

Here is an example of the color scheme we have. Black, white, and clay. Very MANLY!

I always love classic black and white, especially on a stairwell. The neutral clay color is going to allow for some serious play with bold colors.

I just finished painting the top rail black and I'm really happy with it! I love the simple sophistication of a little touch of black. Now I am seriously craving a new light fixture!!

Here's what I have for 'before' shots...

The triangle wall to the left is now the clay colored wall.

This project has certainly proven that a little black can go a long way.

As for the little pendant that needs updating, I have my eye on a few...

We could go industrial...

I love the top left from Anthro...

OR we could go Art Deco to add a slight touch of femininity...

I'm thinking that a few Art Deco references would tie back to the original design and architecture of the building. I could be wrong, seeing as how I don't actually know anything about the building, but Art Deco just seems to fit.

Can't you just see it???

This is totally the wrong perspective with the light, but you can still get an idea of what an Art Deco pendant would look like. I still love playing with olioboards!

I'll keep you all posted on the progress! Hope you're having a great weekend!

What I Found...

2011-07-15T10:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday everyone!

I thought I would share with you more of the treasures that came home with me from Minnesota.

One of my stops was City Salvage located in North East Minneapolis.

Just imagine how fun it would be to go around collecting the coolest and most beautiful pieces out of old buildings and houses in the Minneapolis/St.Paul areas.....I would just die!

Well, that's what these people do...

...they get to go digging... as their job!

You'll have to excuse my dark photos. This place is lit with antique lighting and is therefore rather dark. I took the photos that I could to give you a taste of what this place is like.

Notice the banister, the columns, and that beautiful gothic style door? AND the leaded glass windows that line the ceiling? I would so do that!

Oh, and there is a cat.

She kept the hubby busy. Did you notice that Art Deco light fixture in the background?? Swoon!

These could be used in a very pretty way.....

I wanted this light fixture!

Hubby said, "what are you gonna do with ANOTHER light?!"

I said, "I'm gonna hang it in my work room and turn it on when I get a bright idea! duh!"

Silly husband. Like I'm frivolous.
I mean, it's not like I have an obviously abundant and seemingly useless collection of old doors, frames, and light fixtures!!

Anyway, here are the two small things that I brought home..

An apothecary jar! It holds my Epsom salt.
That's right...I'm 90 and I put Epsom salt in the water for a rare soak in my sucky tub.
I guess if I can't have my dream tub, at least I can have the view of a swell looking shelf!!

I love that old bar of Ivory Soap too!

I also brought home a piece of molding from the old Danish Hall, known as Dana Hall to the locals. I hear it once burned down...I can't find any history on this, but apparently this was a piece of molding from the ballroom??? If any of you happen to know more about this please let me know!

I just loved it :)

I have it temporarily hung with the window collection in the dining room...

That's all I brought home from the treasure trove that is City Salvage. I spent a whopping $35!!!

Next up, is our visit to Bauer Brothers Salvage and a cute little store that is appropriately named, "I Like You"

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend!!

Inspiration for Deta

2011-07-12T05:15:00.000-07:00

Beautiful rooms with browns, blues, and lilac hues.

Just for you Deta!!

Notice the white shelves and birdies below....

Don't be afraid to go dramatic and contrast with white.

Blue and a little bit of pink!

Tall lamps and headboard to balance out the drapes.

Dark frames on floral patterns

This combo is pretty too...

Soft and luxurious.

Things I would buy for Deta's room:

1. Some purple or pink damask fabric

2. some purple or pink pillows and a throw blanket

3. Some vintage lamps with an interesting white shade

4. Some elegant white shelves for the birdies

5. An elegant white chair or bench

6. Vintage frames and vintage botanical prints

7. An upholstered headboard and two non-matching night stands

There you have it Deta!

Now keep your eyes peeled for these things on the cheap and you'll have your dream bedroom in no time! You deserve it!

Digging in Deta's Basement

2011-07-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

My Aunt Deta is the official keeper of the Bruhn and Kamm family heirlooms and antiques. When I want to go diggin for family heirlooms or I have questions about the history of my Mother's side of the family, I know exactly where to go.

I could dig in Deta's basement and listen to stories for hours!

This trip I learned that my Grandma Lovie used to invite her friends over for fancy little dinners and my Mom and Deta would have to play "waitress" and get dressed up in their fancy aprons. They hated it!!

I found the evidence of their fancy waitress days...

and they're the perfect size for Bailey...hmmmm....it seems that I have a fancy little waitress of my own.

I also found these hand crocheted and embroidered pillow cases and hand towels....

These were most likely made by my Great Grandmother Mamie or her friend Regine.

The second I saw the white ones with the crocheted detail, I thought of incorporating them into a space like this...

by Simply Inspired Home

I think that even if a space has a few antiques or "shabby chic" items that it doesn't mean that the space can't have some serious color and a fresh/modern feel.

What I really needed to find was more fancy hankies for the skirt on this slipper chair....remember...

I knew there had to be some down in Deta's basement!

This one with the birds and nests is my favorite.

It was a great trip and Miss Bailey has turned into such a good traveler.

As you can see she does a great job keeping herself entertained.
She's gonna hate me for this someday!

I have a few more things to share about our trip later this week. I hope you're all enjoying your summer!

Coolest Kids Spaces

2011-07-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

I've been a slacker!!!

Well, super busy actually, trying to get ready to go on vacation, planting 11 new bushes, working on my ArtWorks project, and keeping up with a 2 year old....BUT the ArtWorks project is gonna get even COOLER!!!

There is a LOT of work to do BEFORE we get to this really super awesome cool part, but I thought I would share some fun inspiration....Have you seen this bookstore???

The Kid's Republic Bookstore in Beijing.

Has reading ever looked so cool???

This one has been all over blog land.....

This one is a dollhouse!!

Charles Fazzino mural in Ft. Lauderdale

When we get to this area of the store there will be an explosion of color and fun!! There will be merchandise slots and shelves built into a mural, a playful kiosk display, and a little area for kid's to hang out and be artsy.
I can't even wait!

Lambrequins?!?

2011-06-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

What sounds fancier and is more timeless than a valance??

A LAMBREQUIN!!

A lambrequin is a style of pelmet or cornice that extends down the sides of a window, often to the sill, or even to the floor. They were popular in the early to mid 19th century and were made with stiffened buckram, paper or wood. Designs for lambrequins were first found in "The Workman's Guide" way back in 1883.

If you asked Ms. Harriet Beecher Stowe, she'd say, "...the patterns of these can be varied according to fancy, but simple designs are usually the prettiest. A tassel at the lowest point improves the appearance."

Like so...

Look at a pair designed by Miles Redd ....

As seen in the December 2009 issue of Elle Decor. In 2119 this room will still look just as elegant and fresh.

Why am I talking about lambrequins you ask???

Because I'm hoping to have one made for a new client!! A client that has a love for Asian antiques and contemporary design. We'll see what I come up with, but a lambrequin is seeming to fit the bill at the moment.

It's strange how talking about a centuries old idea like a lambrequin, sounds more current than talking about a valance. The power of words.

I'm excited!!! Wish me luck!!

Get Right Out of Town!!!

2011-06-23T18:33:00.000-07:00

I won a giveaway!!!

The fabulous Krystal over at Village hosted a giveaway for Pop Pop Portraits last week and yours truly is takin home the prize!!! That's three prints and a tote bag!!! How's that for a lovely Wednesday surprise??

I adore these painted portraits by Helena and I will love to have a few in my home!

Here are my favorite prints:

Miss Marianne

My Lovely Aunt

Grrr....Like A Tiger

Molly the Greeting Card Designer

High Bun

Seesaw

Road Trip With Ro-Ro and Ronald

Ro-Ro's Big Day Out

You know I'm loving the background color of the last three prints and I love that the flamingo is named Ronald. You know you want to travel around the world with a flamingo named Ronald!!

AND

A tote bag!!

Sebastian Tellier is Pointing Thataway

A girl can never have too many tote bags!!!

Thanks SOOOO MUCH to Krystal and Helena!!! You've made my week!

If you haven't been over to Krystal's blog, you're missing out on some fabulous giveaways and some awesome posts!! You can check out Helena's blog HERE.

Hope you're all having a great week!!

P.S. I know you want ALL of these Jess!!!!

ArtWorks Inspiration Board

2011-06-20T10:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday! Here is the inspiration board for my ArtWorks project:

Sherwin-Williams paint colors: (far left) Functional Gray, Black Magic, and Griffin

Notice all the MANliness??

Lots of black, brownish grays, industrial metals, shiny metals, rivets, and the one missing element on this board....wood. The store has perfectly imperfect wood flooring with the kind of character that only age and circumstance can create. We are also incorporating wood pieces that have an industrial feel, like so....

I'll be on the look out for some huge industrial wheels and hinges. Pulleys too!

I picked up a couple metal bins at a garage sale the other day for $1!! The lady who sold them to me was very surprised that I actually wanted to buy them. I don't think I was supposed to find them buried under the other stuff in her garage.

Not everyone will see the coolness in these bins.

I cleaned them all up and now they're ready to hold some merchandise.

So, you might be asking, "where's the color!?!"

We will incorporate color in a few different ways. Through the colorful art supplies, the containers holding the art supplies, and through the artwork. There might be a couple walls of color, but I'm not sold on that idea yet. We'll see what happens when I get there :) I'll keep sharing the progress as I go.

Hope you all had a great Father's Day weekend!

200 Posts!?!

2011-06-15T10:27:00.000-07:00

I'm celebrating my 200th post by indulging my infatuation with pink...

via HouseBeautiful

via Mosaicworks.ca...you should really check out her work if you haven't already! The BLOG is just as awesome!!!

Some Annie Selke fabric I'm dying for!!

Pink peonies and newspaper.

Let's pretend for a sec that this purple is my pink. I love the gray with the green moss balls and the pops of purple/pink and the touches of black and white.

This image makes me want to get some canvases and pink paint for the little Miss to play with!! She'd have a ball and I would have some great and meaningful art!

I'm also falling for more blush like pinks paired with black and white. I think it has something to do with my other infatuations....

and

Barbie!!

via Jonathan Adler

How's that for a celebration of pink!

I'm thinking of having a pink sort of giveaway!! Hmmmm.....this idea should get my wheels turning!

Hope you're all having a great week!I'm so thankful for all of your support and kind words that have made 200 posts so worth writing! I love all of you beautiful blog buddies!!

HomeFinder.com Article

2011-06-14T04:22:00.000-07:00

My monthly contribution to the HomeFinder.com blog is up. This month it's about making big changes in your kitchen without spending big money.

Most of you have already seen my kitchen transformation but if you haven't, you can check it out by clicking HERE

Happy Tuesday!!

A Powder Room Makeover

2011-06-13T08:42:00.001-07:00

The powder room makeover for my MIL is almost complete!!

Here is the sconce we went with. The Circolo from Kichler lighting...

The vanity is a simple shaker style in black like these...I don't have my own image just yet...

I want a mirror like this....

but that's not what we have....yeah....I'm still fighting this battle, and it's a hard one because my opponent costs only $20!!! I will win. Eventually.

Here is what the powder room looked like....

Very dark.

Very Country/Colonial.

Not ANYMORE!! The powder room is now completely empty and has been painted Simply Elegant Blue, from Pittsburgh Paints. It took some convincing, but the ceiling was also painted the same blue. I believe in painting the ceiling a complementary color, when you can. The ceiling is a wall after all, and it does deserve some attention. Painting the ceiling a light blue can almost make it disappear.

The floors have also gone from linoleum to a beautiful solid oak. You CAN put solid wood flooring in powder rooms and it's always wise to keep flooring as seamless as possible. It's how you make spaces feel bigger, cleaner, and visually connected.

I should have some images to share within the next couple weeks! I'm excited to see this clean and elegant powder room come to life... even if I don't get my dream mirror!

A Little Bit...

2011-06-10T08:05:00.000-07:00

A little bit of progress that is.

The pottery tools section has been getting some attention.

You know how ridiculous I am about the small details??? Well, that comes in handy when you're trying to maximize your retail real estate. Notice how the peg board with the supplies could be bigger and display a bit more merchandise?

When you're squeezing a lot of merchandise into a small space and you REALLY want more space for displaying and selling other things as well, then you have to be extremely conscious of each square inch. Leave that to me, cuz I'm crazy like that.

The area is still not completely finished because I REALLY want a floating white shelf above the peg board that will look like these....

and possibly display...hmmmm....POTTERY...how relevant would that be???

AND that would make me about as happy as that girl holding up that shoe!!

P.S. this is a photo of a Natuzzi ad.

Here is the new pegboard with newly painted black walls...

There is just enough space above the pegboard and between the two white columns for an awesome floating shelf! The "pottery tools" sign will also be changing to something more graphic...not sure what yet.

Also, you will probably note that I need to work on the area below the white table where the roll of canvas and all the palettes are. Makes me cringe a little to show it this way, but that's what it is. Point being...it won't be for long!!

There is still room to grow!! Now I gotta figure out how to make a super sturdy floating shelf that won't fall on a customers head someday! Yikes!

Ohhhhh Sweeeetiee...my dearest dear...I need help :)

Wish me luck!!

Update: Message Center

2011-06-08T11:02:00.000-07:00

I had a hot date with a roll of painters tape the other night.......

....nearly an entire roll later, I have me some green stripes!

It's tedious work and I have changed my mind regarding painting any stripes on any of my walls. Ever.

Unless they are at least 2 feet wide.

Did you notice the large spot above the message center??

Something like this....

...will be going up there to fill the space or maybe even a fabric covered bulletin board since it's up high enough that the little Miss can't reach it.

The frame is from Goodwill and I had my framer cut me a couple mats with standard size openings so that I can change out the pictures whenever I feel like it.

A peony pink next to the green stripes and the green walls would be quite predictably and quite perfectly "ME".

As for the rest of the message center, I'm still trying to find the perfect calendar and the perfect dry erase board. It just seems that all of my options are either too big or too small. I may have to make my own!

I would LOVE any of these Madeline Weinrib fabrics for the bulletin board!!!!

They seriously make me swoon!!

I'm hoping to have this finished very soon! I'm searching the internet like crazy looking for the perfect pieces! If you know of any unique products that might fit the bill please drop me a line!!

Fresh & Airy

2011-06-06T17:17:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago, my Mother decided that we needed to trade drapes.

I was like "Are you CRAZY?!?"

You see, she hand made her gorgeous drapes out of beautiful white linen fabric and.mine are just "pretty good" quality chenille drapes from JCPenney. Hers are worth 100 times more than mine!

I remember when my Mom was slaving over those drapes about 12 years ago!!! Yep. 12 years ago!! Maybe even 13!! Since she didn't have all 7 panels for my living and dinging room she started slaving over the extra panels I needed. Thanks Mom!!

The old drapes still look brand spanking new. That's the lovely thing about classic white. It never goes out of style. You can also spice up white panels with ribbon or a fabric border if you ever want to change things up a bit.

Here is the dining room with the beige drapes....

They aren't fresh enough for my palate, but I was just gonna deal with them and get new ones later, seeing as how I have bigger fish to fry at the moment.

Thanks to my Mom and her great taste and exceptional sewing skillz, I don't have to fry my bigger fish first...here is the dining room with my Mother's lovely drapes...

A fresh and airy difference, wouldn't you say?

I love them!! The best part is that I know my Mom put lots of love in them for me!

Now, I just hope they can withstand a two year old and a dog!

Hope you're all getting a great start to the week and can't wait to see what you've all been up to!