tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90795404094447902092024-03-17T20:02:43.723-07:00mimiberry creationsBudget home decor and DIY projects, plus art & other creations Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-3685681871413432612020-10-23T07:31:00.001-07:002020-10-26T13:26:56.464-07:00Looking for a Heartfelt Custom Christmas Gift? Or for any other occasion?<p>Despite this website being mostly about budget friendly ways to improve your decor, occasionally I like to share side projects I am also doing. Lately I have been blessed with a lot of opportunities to create custom artwork for people who have lost loved ones and want to remember them with individuals they never met, or in important memories they didn't get to be a part of. I also have drawn a few different drawings that feature Jesus Christ, and have been fortunate to include those who have passed on with him. To be asked to create custom artwork that features someone's deceased love one is both humbling and special for me, and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to create art that brings tears to people's eyes and happiness to their hearts. </p><p>Drawing and creating custom artwork has been a great blessing as it allows me to provide a little bit for our family's needs, as well as work when it is most convenient. Now that my four boys are in school all day, (crossing my fingers that e-learning will soon be a thing of the past,) I have decided to continue my education and go and get my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Because of this decision, I am looking for ways that I can earn money to put towards my education that I start next Fall. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyBRysp3MQjv06Ct5MpYwZweKwEKwkBiYr6JGB6tyOiDfOJnTbt_lheaOMQOODf0RYIcMt8wCogzU0Woimflb5i9NJ87KU4bDC7CBysBpfM4BlZ49BOgo3RveGIIoRfF1dVIVK0ssIBc/s1500/Art+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyBRysp3MQjv06Ct5MpYwZweKwEKwkBiYr6JGB6tyOiDfOJnTbt_lheaOMQOODf0RYIcMt8wCogzU0Woimflb5i9NJ87KU4bDC7CBysBpfM4BlZ49BOgo3RveGIIoRfF1dVIVK0ssIBc/w427-h640/Art+Pin.jpg" width="427" /></a></div><br /><p>Since Christmas is coming up, (and if you are like me you're trying to figure out what to get for everyone on your list,) here are a few ideas that would be way more meaningful than a gift card...</p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><span style="font-size: small;">Note: Even though each of the examples below feature individuals who have passed on, I also do a lot of art that features those who are living as well. I love custom requests, and I love bringing to life artwork that you see in your mind's eye. </span></p><p>I appreciate your support in following my blog, as well as my endeavors. If you have any questions or requests, please do not hesitate to comment below, email me, or reach me via my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MimiberryCreations?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=787319199" target="_blank">Etsy listings</a>, (or click on the caption under any of the pictures below that are similar to what you are looking for). Thank you!</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxplo-hblvvOA6yjrbDdj1DmQsQH-2EQ2374IG5fUTI1yN4EVt6GTxF7vu34dEUDPSVYGWB_58gr2Ye8OjvSFsrNOOSJokkFSXmGFj_5deh5O3i2MCAirJUjV7qcP-XRox8NNokqFbMU/s2048/ChristBnAwithHat.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="2048" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxplo-hblvvOA6yjrbDdj1DmQsQH-2EQ2374IG5fUTI1yN4EVt6GTxF7vu34dEUDPSVYGWB_58gr2Ye8OjvSFsrNOOSJokkFSXmGFj_5deh5O3i2MCAirJUjV7qcP-XRox8NNokqFbMU/w640-h376/ChristBnAwithHat.jpg" title="Come Unto Christ Custom Drawing in Memory of Loved One" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Click <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/667417823/come-unto-christ-custom-drawing-in?ref=shop_home_feat_1" target="_blank">here</a> for more info on how to get your own custom drawing with Christ.</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2kz3Q54NVJbTJkyMTeNsMp2yqD-UKqh4WQj9SRMECGLXcEYWy7HQ99Qxi_jBySBR-kW-fR1k2iWBH2ZRCIeH77hTa8hZqEO68paXRsM9A7DxEMLeFNupFzj47I8m0f0Xt4AvnUhvPMf0/s2048/PapawithSophia2BnA.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1609" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2kz3Q54NVJbTJkyMTeNsMp2yqD-UKqh4WQj9SRMECGLXcEYWy7HQ99Qxi_jBySBR-kW-fR1k2iWBH2ZRCIeH77hTa8hZqEO68paXRsM9A7DxEMLeFNupFzj47I8m0f0Xt4AvnUhvPMf0/w502-h640/PapawithSophia2BnA.jpg" title="Capture your loved ones how you imagine them. Include deceased members in family portraits, see loved ones perfectly, etc" width="502" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">She never got the chance to sit in her great-grandpa's lap, but now she and her family can see them together forever.<br />Click <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/787319199/custom-drawing-capture-your-loved-ones?ref=shop_home_feat_2&frs=1" target="_blank">here</a> to see how to get your own custom drawing.</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHOYwcAMeRnW7xZiwIUn24Ek9Q7TYq2fVdwhIhQzDHjqLpN7nxXuEKw88hcJgu4CF8e31ESv4Ts2GnTNG1jdDOP8-GdONOvVQRqn8d7sFkXAiW_xo9c_JX0XwoHHwD7SC69tRvpgg5eM/s2048/WeddingMomBnA.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1609" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHOYwcAMeRnW7xZiwIUn24Ek9Q7TYq2fVdwhIhQzDHjqLpN7nxXuEKw88hcJgu4CF8e31ESv4Ts2GnTNG1jdDOP8-GdONOvVQRqn8d7sFkXAiW_xo9c_JX0XwoHHwD7SC69tRvpgg5eM/w502-h640/WeddingMomBnA.jpg" title="Custom Drawing: Capture your loved ones how you imagine them. Include deceased members in family portraits, see loved ones perfectly, etc" width="502" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Even though her mother couldn't attend her wedding in person, her heart was with her that day. Now she can see her mother supporting her on her biggest day. Click </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/787319199/custom-drawing-capture-your-loved-ones?ref=shop_home_feat_2&frs=1" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-size: small;"> to see how to get your own custom drawing.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzQI6RZYNConcnGFFgEUgoLQ2GtOAhx48BEcyiRgGXhdoVikvOtoZx47yp0tPc8939DUa2d8v48zJpac-j7hmsBfwPg4ADLwakjoyAfHQ1-DTU2gjUnWjpCX3d1t3-T8buLzKvpDkNw0/s2048/EtsyCustomChristBabyPic1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1609" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzQI6RZYNConcnGFFgEUgoLQ2GtOAhx48BEcyiRgGXhdoVikvOtoZx47yp0tPc8939DUa2d8v48zJpac-j7hmsBfwPg4ADLwakjoyAfHQ1-DTU2gjUnWjpCX3d1t3-T8buLzKvpDkNw0/w502-h640/EtsyCustomChristBabyPic1.jpg" title="In the Arms of His Love, Custom Art of the Savior with your Baby" width="502" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Click <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/799539926/in-the-arms-of-his-love-custom-art-of?ref=shop_home_active_2&frs=1" target="_blank">here</a> for more information on how to see your baby in Christ's arms.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizA2nbz1Ra48VT61qqTz5-KsgX0wKEwxyUA6r8VURyOmvQ4TeEi7WCZo60FkyvTKWySeJsnHxusQxLVoYxgEA-WilYjaqy7uHi26o6fZmr6AoKr38nRlYC5jroygPWtQRDPlNZu3Tsalc/s2048/ChristandBraxtynBnA.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1617" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizA2nbz1Ra48VT61qqTz5-KsgX0wKEwxyUA6r8VURyOmvQ4TeEi7WCZo60FkyvTKWySeJsnHxusQxLVoYxgEA-WilYjaqy7uHi26o6fZmr6AoKr38nRlYC5jroygPWtQRDPlNZu3Tsalc/w506-h640/ChristandBraxtynBnA.jpg" title="In the Arms of His Love, Custom Art of the Savior with your Baby" width="506" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Click </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/799539926/in-the-arms-of-his-love-custom-art-of?ref=shop_home_active_2&frs=1" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-size: small;"> for more information on how to see your baby in Christ's arms.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div>Thank you for taking the time to look through my most recent creations. I would love to create something custom for you, or someone you know, so please don't hesitate to <a href="mailto:mimi.crisenberry@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">contact me</a> or share this with someone you know that might also be interested.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you!</div>Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-69966241292012843032020-10-13T10:19:00.005-07:002020-10-13T10:25:14.262-07:00Interior Design Styles have been Changing--Does your Space need an Update? (Contributed Post)<p><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Remember December 2019? Yeah, that was a more peaceful time for the interior design world. If you follow the scene, you will have known that an earthquake was occurring. It wasn’t a surprise at all, it was actually a changing of the guard. If you weren’t paying attention, the gist of it is, the sharp clean lines of the contemporary, minimalist, industrial and postmodern designs and styles, were going out the window. A return of more curves, complex shapes, form over pure function, and more personality was taking over. It had been 10 years at least since we saw the latter but it was a welcome revival of such styles. But, older styles weren’t coming back, we were in the midst of creating a new style, merely taking inspiration from the others. So, let’s get back to this task and finish the transition!</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-4b4951bd-7fff-c126-93fd-9ec0f9b5df99"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtGOtQ1NjOj3aObKEhzTPSRFp-uFElzZLA2TKSnwzPub4MoqnOCpatNqrE_enwHKiglRtwBAIT01ic7pTHvAZEfQpWvKmXANNPqvKBXFSYwC1KLwDL8ZKsO0vaAYId_nFW7Umjzk5v28/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtGOtQ1NjOj3aObKEhzTPSRFp-uFElzZLA2TKSnwzPub4MoqnOCpatNqrE_enwHKiglRtwBAIT01ic7pTHvAZEfQpWvKmXANNPqvKBXFSYwC1KLwDL8ZKsO0vaAYId_nFW7Umjzk5v28/w427-h640/image.png" width="427" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A new bathroom</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The bathroom is very often, the last room to get updated. It's not really a showpiece room, is it? The family room, kitchen, and dining rooms always get more praise from guests, so that’s where we pour all of our creativity. But we cannot leave any room behind! </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfMoRRprYkygU1WWTo6UgmXEfjrVKgAVYN9Y7S3wXfjaugUxPKKpzt31E7urY1AHkPkGQY7v21QMsGCPvIMz1xMOyDHGtDI5Lw_Cgm5AepETLSc2rHRD7EIlwE0OlPqwzEoKh_PFLD1pE/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfMoRRprYkygU1WWTo6UgmXEfjrVKgAVYN9Y7S3wXfjaugUxPKKpzt31E7urY1AHkPkGQY7v21QMsGCPvIMz1xMOyDHGtDI5Lw_Cgm5AepETLSc2rHRD7EIlwE0OlPqwzEoKh_PFLD1pE/w427-h640/image.png" width="427" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;">Start off with new but </span><a href="https://www.plumbersstock.com/bathroom/tubs-showers.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #4a6ee0; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline;">cheap bathtubs</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"> which you can just drop in. These drop-in bathtubs, like the TOTO, KOHLER, and Mansfield are brilliant choices. The square and oval shapes can fit almost any room. The square gives you more room in the bath, but sharper edges so may feel it's easier to slide in. An oval shape is better for those that want more side support and can fit into small rooms.</span></span><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><span></span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Another addition to make in the mirror. Yes, the mirror. It's not just purely practical, it can shape the way the light is in the room, making it brighter around the room or just located in one spot. Check out the </span><a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/browse/home-garden/mirrors/bathroom/_/N-cjyZ1z05vhf?s_ppc=1dx43700013397231769&tmad=c&tmcampid=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4X8BRCPARIsABmcnOrFf0DUdt33kaYs5elOOg5bkR5WDvoz-CNTRch0UWKTIpNcdNnPYp0aAmcpEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">LED-lit mirrors</span></a><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> which have lights around the edges rather than a lamp underneath. These are excellent for saving money but more stylish than just a ceiling light.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A classy living room</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A classy living room will consist of one new thing. A blue suede sofa. Blue is the new color in the household that is fighting to take over the turf that white has held for over a decade. We are all neutral junkies. The modern home is filled with white, cream, black, and grey. Aren’t you just so sick of it!?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, start off with a curvy classic Chesterfield sofa, in the blue of course. The blue is regal and the traditional color of royalty. A fabric sofa in the form of suede or perhaps velvet would be excellent. The </span><a href="https://www.sofasbysaxon.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=chesterfield%2Bsofa&utm_campaign=CSBMM&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4X8BRCPARIsABmcnOqa9jaFa2gTG_z55UpUTgem8u16UDnGvhM-TEE61iLDM55A3emuaLMaAqpjEALw_wcB" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chesterfield buttons</span></a><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> will give you the support you need, but not wrinkle your clothes as it was designed for classic lounge rooms for men who wore suits.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrB5CiXJ9XsgMfOVnzBSj5q_qaJVk-Zj7_9uneqEjBmzlZQoZD_Zonq0smo1ngEpNwhM2AJRbkNR2C4nRneC8t4NYSNFCmPi8ZPe7MIprlf_sdqgEo31pXnIlgwXo-W_1_iMcVlAEIxo/s2048/pexels-photo-3797991.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrB5CiXJ9XsgMfOVnzBSj5q_qaJVk-Zj7_9uneqEjBmzlZQoZD_Zonq0smo1ngEpNwhM2AJRbkNR2C4nRneC8t4NYSNFCmPi8ZPe7MIprlf_sdqgEo31pXnIlgwXo-W_1_iMcVlAEIxo/w640-h480/pexels-photo-3797991.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Another item you should add is a grandfather clock. This amazing addition can be found in antique shops but also bought brand new, even though the best options will be thousands of dollars. The Victorian Era designs are the best.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Floral makes a comeback</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.urbanoutfitters.com/shop/myla-floral-duvet-set?inventoryCountry=US&color=003&size=TWIN&type=REGULAR&quantity=1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="649" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhehrF1SGn-99gMMDSiE9BtujVWP7oPluD91MD5xxb8Fiuwkyfeno5XtOAw3QzwXLJ4pt6zGZUusfE3nNMS91myKOSIpCOLa4HMEVv3p0lE680lx92ZYepF2PxH8Q_Bj4vJvvoSi1oALXY/w502-h640/Screenshot+2020-10-13+111120.png" width="502" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you love nature and floral patterns, you will love the latest comeback kid. You know him, you’ll recognize him, he’s the floral bedroom style! You can see how awesome some floral wallpaper is for your bedroom, as it's not overpowering, can be dominated by one block color, and yet still have bright and vibrant flowers. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can also add a </span><a href="https://www.dunelm.com/info/floral-bedding" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">floral bed sheet set,</span></a><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for your duvet, bed, and pillows. The types of floral patterns that are making a comeback are more the classic nature. It's not about pastel florals anymore. Now, we want bright yellow, blue and pink tulips, and of course, white roses and bell bottles. It's nice to have floral patterns for the wall and your bed, but it's a daring challenge to have them for our lampshade, headboard, towels, and even your area rug. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rugs and more rugs!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The area rug has been kicked to the curb for a few years as more and more people start to buy new central heating systems. With modern thermostats, you can set each room’s temperature and keep your home nice and warm without the need to set the heating too high. However, the area rug is not just for warmth, it's there for style. It can be a statement, a symbol, and a plinth on which you confess your style.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The most popular area rug styles are the Mediterranean such as the Italian orange and yellow rugs. The </span><a href="https://www.jaipurrugs.org/artisan-originals/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4X8BRCPARIsABmcnOrEUY4fG9grX9n0IxN9nviZ622hzFrvv3C8HpBLzRiXkCoV7Yieo3oaAmliEALw_wcB" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Arabic style</span></a><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is one of the most popular because of its traditional manufacturing method and brilliant patterns. The other area rug that is very popular is the British style, mainly from North England. Shaggy sheep’s wool is used to heat a room but also, give you a layer of style and depth that cannot be done with anything similar. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.jaipurrugs.org/artisan-originals/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4X8BRCPARIsABmcnOrEUY4fG9grX9n0IxN9nviZ622hzFrvv3C8HpBLzRiXkCoV7Yieo3oaAmliEALw_wcB" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="758" height="522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vHbQuABEa8Oc4p6Ps74f06d6EC0Qu6rjY6JOJrIFDs-wZ78YHsBOg-UHAklDveku8uixBKsX1ZQ27VGwZXTPl7-0VTlA5b2NBD6IT7FCM45dzzlm5Uz_ohAktHVcHr83C48X2HjE87s/w640-h522/image.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Geometric ornamentation</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As the interior design world has been in search of a new style, older styles have been cropping up everywhere in the hopes we draw some inspiration. The classic 1920s Art-deco style gave birth to what is now known as a geometric design. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/836096033/plant-shelf-hexagon-shelf-honeycomb?gpla=1&gao=1&" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="794" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuR478nDPqN9NFdvOfipUzxaOFSpM952kuZSe8WWLKJvaLBksdJgPnF5-DnB-kR0SGk1VGw0zVdU9BvW_LhLnzMQkJhtP4lkWle_F1xcB_wfZzL3MwN8HhNpPsxJWn7Xj9AdhN6fguZI/w640-h480/image.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It's not a style that everyone likes, but bits and pieces of it in the form of ornamentation are quite palatable. Consider geometric show boxes, which can be used for unique storage, but are mainly for show. These can be placed in window sills and ledges. You can also get </span><a href="https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g29859422/design-trends-2020/?slide=4" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">geometric patterns</span></a><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for your backsplash in the kitchen. The bichrome tiles in a rhombus design are very popular, but you can also get a geometric wallpaper design for your bathroom. Geometric lamps are incredibly popular because they are minimalist yet also classic. They usually use bronze and iron as their main material.</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We highly recommend that you keep exploring new interior design styles and make new additions to your home. Let’s not allow the virus to stop us from enjoying our love for home design and style. We will keep the ball rolling and allow new ideas to rise.</span></p><div><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></div>Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-48141842376822710352020-09-09T08:19:00.005-07:002020-09-09T08:22:30.324-07:004 Ways to Enhance your Kitchen (including one that can be done on a dime!)--Contributed Post<p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Improving your kitchen is something many people avoid. You need your kitchen to function every single day; preparing food, eating with your family, and catching up with each other about your day. The idea of a kitchen renovation can be stressful in itself for most people; the dust, the invasion of builders and contractors in your space… It’s enough to make anyone turn their back on the idea. But here’s the thing: kitchen improvements do not have to be huge, life-altering renovations which rip out your kitchen at its roots and start all over again. Making </span><a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2020/08/two-quick-easy-diy-decor-changes-to.html" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">a noticeable difference</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> to your kitchen does not necessarily need to involve huge disruptions or bank-breaking expenses.</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-feb6a6f9-7fff-d536-0863-8ecbf2a6cf9a"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 416px; overflow: hidden; width: 624px;"><img height="416" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/8aDVBekXtiexxsmw2wNVCHZHocP-1aSH2OHgQMzrWx36i6f9F5DIld83aANNQxNPUwzsAUDj8Rf1uqAGSpAB4vbBj4kc6pyl2ZiDM6DWdZ_fVVnNPBg40_I24i0HIdwQfUkGlrn2" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="624" /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/chopping-boards-near-oven-under-hood-2062426/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image credit.</span></span></a></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">During the winter, most of us need a pick-me-up. We all love our cozy nights with candles lit and a blanket, but the winter can make a lot of people feel down due to the darkness and cold weather. This isn’t to say that a kitchen renovation will fix all your problems, but making improvements to your space can vastly improve your mindset and make you feel a million times more revitalized.</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #434343; font-family: arial; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 16pt;"><span style="font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Refacing Your Cabinets</span></h3></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Old, weathered looking cabinets can immediately age your kitchen and make it look out of date and shabby. If you are looking for an improvement to your kitchen that doesn’t involve ripping the cabinets out and replacing them, refacing the cabinets provides a fresh feeling which lasts a long time.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/10/painting-oak-cabinets-everything-you.html" target="_blank"><img alt="How to Update Your Kitchen Cabinets" border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgx7-aSpctMclQkcGQRV2qJVeQ59Augwil7N5YcGdAHpvoGB9x0BbY-dU9-tQTzA6XjMkxFe8ZRfiBn6Di3pNnDn02VTQwJNRIqwKOp53dg3Mrrlsl60YDrIab4qJPMw_Z7Eopb_uA2s/w625-h341/KitchenPin.jpg" title="10 Day DIY Cabinet Refacing Tutorial" width="625" /></a></span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How does cabinet refacing work? You can attempt this <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/10/painting-oak-cabinets-everything-you.html" target="_blank">yourself as a DIY project</a>, or if you want the job done quickly and reliably, you can hire a professional. You can find well-reviewed companies who offer </span><a href="https://www.nhance.com/richmond/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">cabinet refacing</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> in any major city in the US. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.nhance.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="469" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJh0JnDf2X4MGD9BKbD3A3-rlj-NMCLaKuIX11j1qMgIZt9RrNIl2P-sFWOpk-H3wLKUwJEb1DjIKi9Ix56CocdhrQhrtrHUbZ3-JEtW_YmhRY4A3NtIttLOeeUrK-M7ZmmSWVx5ph0k/w469-h469/CabinetRefinishing.png" width="469" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.nhance.com" target="_blank">Source<br /></a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><ol start="2" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #434343; font-family: arial; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 16pt;"><span style="font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Going To Work On Your Floors</span></h3></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Flooring is an unmissable element of your home’s decor. Your home can be lovely, bright, homely and clean - but with shabby, stained or worn out flooring, nobody will notice the pretty parts. If you don’t want to replace your kitchen floors, though, that’s understandable. This takes some time and money, not to mention that floor replacement can be very disruptive to your home routine. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="goog_554863471"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aTiREUgLL9S2DIwy09oS6L_Ze5S6Al-yWLa9YPUZtza2Z-a_KmNM2aKR4Z1TLVRnTZK09jop5FzXRCeVCpWXYzvzkUpcKFv9MaGuGlFe0YoOh0elN-uGYbx7oQkPYJN-Kq_vxGOO_iY/w400-h300/FloorSanding-003-1024x768.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.nhance.com/denver/floor-sanding/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgKHXoqzc6wIVD9bACh0ZYwk3EAAYBCAAEgIn0_D_BwE">Before<br /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Instead, try waxing, varnishing or even repainting your wooden flooring. Wood is a great, classy and valuable choice for home flooring, but the downside is that it is very easily scratched and worn down. If your wooden kitchen floor is starting to age your kitchen, invest in a waxing or varnishing service which not only makes your kitchen floors look stunning, but it protects them against damage and scratching too.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="goog_554863477"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQ4-P1a_iTBKs_zOmDIi-J7fOEgvgMG2uhfi-IjMMX0TvEHZw4Dnu0UrWtSpm4EHTKC4CsCMkWK6V81R0W1m9E7LxnbAww_J3OYtuemUj6Q2vSDfbe-PicxL-7qL_VsAv3ZQZciokH9Q/w400-h300/FloorSanding-017-1024x768.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.nhance.com/denver/floor-sanding/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgKHXoqzc6wIVD9bACh0ZYwk3EAAYBCAAEgIn0_D_BwE">After</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><ol start="3" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #434343; font-family: arial; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 16pt;"><span style="font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories To Elevate Your Kitchen Decor</span></h3></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One thing many people forget is that it doesn’t take a lot to transform a space. If your kitchen has a great base decor which is simple and elegant, but you feel it is a little boring or nondescript, you can easily jazz it up with some decorations. These decor tips are easy to implement and can also be very helpful to your cooking too!</span></p><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Growing herbs.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> If you have any natural light in your kitchen, you can grow herbs inside</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. If you often find yourself buying herbs in a supermarket, such as basil, rosemary or mint, why not save yourself the trouble and grow them yourselves? You can keep these in your kitchen on a shelf or windowsill, and they will add a drop of life into the room. Plus, if you are cooking and need a little extra something to flavor the food, you can go right ahead and cut a few sprigs from the plant growing in your kitchen. </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="goog_554863490" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="417" data-original-width="737" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS4vNcmsX5RAb5sliJHMWGFMrf7wuodRbp57PdiGYGVREYo2dp01Y2CvT8vS8Wa6ErNT2tYy2TAfXuMb0bHQQm9vlaOf6AKIEFZgcFXu_32w_m-ibwadG4Im4UID6FdklfGg072DzGH_g/w500-h283/8920-herbs-in-galvanized-pots.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.gardeners.com/how-to/herbs-indoors/8920.html" target="_blank">Source</a></span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span></span></div><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Brightly colored pots or accessories. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Not everybody wants a bright, intensely colored kitchen which looks like it’s straight out of a Disney movie. That’s understandable. If you like an understated look in grey, brown or white tones, you might still want to consider a few brightly colored pieces to add to the space. These could be a bright casserole dish, a bunch of flowers on the counter or funky mugs. These simple changes can dramatically warm up your space </span></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 16pt;"><span style="color: #434343; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Conclusion</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sprucing up your kitchen this winter does not have to cost your savings or disrupt your life. Use this helpful guide to pick up your kitchen and give your home the revitalization it needs!</span></p></span>Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-54488061902443801722020-08-31T09:23:00.003-07:002020-08-31T09:23:53.620-07:003 Simple Home Changes that make a Big Impact--Contributed Post<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="416" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1ThIy7QLZ5-dkhHbLWdlcs-YZgJ_ECeDOqiNs0Fqpj8Uem5pF3ozufBIaL9fksMnaImQ6zRU_5O95yk7OguX-DZAvv9ZQN_XlnuEQTCIBsejTLvCF6R8roCW7V1LZHi86hypJ35" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;" width="624" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-plants-on-the-table-1005058/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source </span></a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span id="docs-internal-guid-85af9e3d-7fff-f2e8-73b1-50e82ee8a655"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are looking for ways to change up your home that don’t have to be a lot of work, then you’ve come to the right place. There are plenty of options when it comes to doing things differently. You don’t have to tear the whole place up and start from the beginning; instead, you can just do a couple of simple things to see the desired impact. If you want to know more about what kind of things I'm talking about, keep reading down below to find out.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Get Rid Of The Old</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivACFBTZEwG0TRN1wxItG_GzEZvzQ3Z7F0xIEciAWIiDiZyPk5Lq4AJVAm-hDgk6Rh4mors5MV4vzl4ngKc9s2FPG-gNhJfvfYZMFpsqi_zxm-L-uBUmVHW_287XQfH9akKvXHe1EhlGo/s1300/pexels-photo-271800.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; white-space: normal;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1300" data-original-width="867" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivACFBTZEwG0TRN1wxItG_GzEZvzQ3Z7F0xIEciAWIiDiZyPk5Lq4AJVAm-hDgk6Rh4mors5MV4vzl4ngKc9s2FPG-gNhJfvfYZMFpsqi_zxm-L-uBUmVHW_287XQfH9akKvXHe1EhlGo/s640/pexels-photo-271800.jpeg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/apartment-comfort-contemporary-decor-271800/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The first thing that we recommend is that you start by getting rid of the old. The best way to go about this is to go through your home and look at each item you own. If it doesn’t bring you any kind of joy or happiness, or it doesn’t hold any sentimental value, then it’s time to let it go. You might find that there is plenty of stuff that you want to get rid of, which is why you should look into </span><a href="https://dumpsterdivaaz.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">dumpster rentals</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. By doing this, you are ensuring that there is somewhere for all the trash to go so that it doesn’t clog up your home and make everything into a huge mess. That is the last thing you want when you’re trying to change your home for the better!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Take A Look At The Garden</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjygAgJq7UAvByGnULID4yaPOw1azjbSWgP-NynNEA8Z0d7RDy_sXtxnI86lHZ3eEsYpf_MTKGDeVieWjG5L5jWJ_6c4ZvAKMRoTWqByDy7X3lEurlu6H2jSAfeO5JUjYjBK6Cf7h6FpqM/s1880/pexels-photo-4458033.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666984558105px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1253" data-original-width="1880" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjygAgJq7UAvByGnULID4yaPOw1azjbSWgP-NynNEA8Z0d7RDy_sXtxnI86lHZ3eEsYpf_MTKGDeVieWjG5L5jWJ_6c4ZvAKMRoTWqByDy7X3lEurlu6H2jSAfeO5JUjYjBK6Cf7h6FpqM/s640/pexels-photo-4458033.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/charming-child-sweeping-path-with-broom-in-summer-in-sunlight-4458033/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The next thing that I am going to suggest is that you </span><a href="https://www.housebeautiful.com/uk/garden/designs/g28/garden-ideas-on-a-budget/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">take a look at your garden</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Now, for a lot of people, the garden is the area of the home that is a mess. Overgrown grass, weeds everywhere, and it essentially looks like a scene from a nightmare. But, all it takes is mowing down the grass, pulling out the weeds, planting a few flowers, and then any extra additions you want to make to turn it into a completely new space. It doesn’t have to be a lot, just the basics to turn the nightmare into something beautiful.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can go one step further and add elements like water features if you want to, but this isn’t a must. Though these kinds of additions do enhance your garden so if this is something that you’re interested in, it's definitely worth it.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Little Changes That Make A Big Impact</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><div><span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vJZUeSovEkuHQ1Xm0I_G9ao2YTB6LwzditPBKRvc80TCiPGOywmtToSEe6bb8w5eHDYkSVJ4p83gDFDyGxrHufpiy-6ccxVFD1vojkqEMF2bU1JzFG8zbxVxaBE1sf_LKnURJCPHr1k/s2048/pexels-photo-3773570.png.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vJZUeSovEkuHQ1Xm0I_G9ao2YTB6LwzditPBKRvc80TCiPGOywmtToSEe6bb8w5eHDYkSVJ4p83gDFDyGxrHufpiy-6ccxVFD1vojkqEMF2bU1JzFG8zbxVxaBE1sf_LKnURJCPHr1k/s640/pexels-photo-3773570.png.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/leather-couch-beside-lampshade-3773570/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span></span></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finally, you can look into some of the smaller changes that are going to have a big impact. For example, changing the color of </span><a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2020/08/two-quick-easy-diy-decor-changes-to.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">the walls</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> can have a dramatic effect on the feel of the home as a whole. You might not realize this right now, but when you make this simple change, you will see just how different the home feels. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I hope that you have found this article helpful, and now know some of the simple steps that you can take when it comes to changing up your home. Of course, there are plenty of other things that you can do to your home, so it all depends on what works best for your home.</span></p>Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-7475102886965841372020-08-14T09:30:00.007-07:002020-08-14T09:34:40.309-07:00Two Quick & Easy DIY Decor Changes to Spruce up the Walls in your Home -- Contributed Post<p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chances are you’ve spent a whole lot of time in the four walls of your home lately. Social isolation and social distancing measures put in place to slow the spread of coronavirus and Covid-19 have meant that many of us have been stuck inside for months. When looking at the same four walls day after day, it is likely that you have grown tired of the "same old same old" and may be wanting to consider sprucing those walls up a bit. The good news is that stores are open and you can now get the supplies you need to </span><a href="https://www.homedit.com/how-to-change-the-look-of-your-house-with-little-money/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">make a significant change</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. If you don’t want to dedicate to a full scale home improvement project right now, but would like to see some positive change, here are two suggestions that will take less than one day to complete!</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-231e44c8-7fff-ac6c-3cb5-4f45e3dfe17d"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Painting an Accent Wall</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcitwnOpAAn-nndBbtBW0rMbRsgI5oLNtd-3h1KQ4DrK9X1X59y44vEVdTPaY3z-3QvINM_VqGWNIj0i9pigtawWZhXxU9WGYAR_5IdNRDWXOaL8-hWzomKhvb4KcZ64J-L35x8OTg5m0/s597/KelliEntry.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="597" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcitwnOpAAn-nndBbtBW0rMbRsgI5oLNtd-3h1KQ4DrK9X1X59y44vEVdTPaY3z-3QvINM_VqGWNIj0i9pigtawWZhXxU9WGYAR_5IdNRDWXOaL8-hWzomKhvb4KcZ64J-L35x8OTg5m0/s0/KelliEntry.PNG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Courtesy of @myhouseof8 (my sister Kelli's Instagram account)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span><a name='more'></a></span><span><br /></span></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We tend to associate painting our walls with moving into a new property. We’ll move into a space, carry out a few patch tests and determine the right color for our walls. But this doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. There’s nothing stopping you from changing the color of any of your walls at any time. Plus, a fresh coat of paint can really help your home look fresh and clean! Now, you </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">could</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> completely redecorate your home, focusing on one room at a time and giving everywhere a fresh lick of paint. However, this is bound to take a pretty long time. You could use professional painters and decorators to save yourself the time, but this will be costly. Instead, if you want to make a significant change without dedicating a whole lot of time to the project, you could consider painting an accent wall. This involves painting just one wall a completely different color to the other walls in the room. You can find out how to </span><a href="https://www.expertisepaintinginc.com/blog/how-to-choose-an-accent-wall" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">paint an accent wall</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> here.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ-Gmuw9mIlrpJOPhhvgWVZM9tU7qPTnZscf0VOJ6rfeOgr2YMK1RjzXbOLJOj_MuV4pxqHDCaMOn56uXnBHZHsbvF0R08ls-jJtSWoIQNoAKrqvxbgAv98PeU-uHkmjjN5Dt-8ECmuIc/s558/KelliBed.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ-Gmuw9mIlrpJOPhhvgWVZM9tU7qPTnZscf0VOJ6rfeOgr2YMK1RjzXbOLJOj_MuV4pxqHDCaMOn56uXnBHZHsbvF0R08ls-jJtSWoIQNoAKrqvxbgAv98PeU-uHkmjjN5Dt-8ECmuIc/s0/KelliBed.PNG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Courtesy of @myhouseof8 (my sister Kelli's Instagram account)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Putting Some Shelves Up</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQCQBUeJt5Vbfs5lXdGHn7tvGDq1jFMhj69Y0jaQwYkrwl1oM_R5sCr0wWNXmzBNImDZ88ZTy9YGKdb-t9xwYJmESbaL8AidP85rq9RQQ6xn9ccHKSAKX-DsCLyJPZ34eyQkqfo9bgGU/s598/KelliWall.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQCQBUeJt5Vbfs5lXdGHn7tvGDq1jFMhj69Y0jaQwYkrwl1oM_R5sCr0wWNXmzBNImDZ88ZTy9YGKdb-t9xwYJmESbaL8AidP85rq9RQQ6xn9ccHKSAKX-DsCLyJPZ34eyQkqfo9bgGU/s0/KelliWall.PNG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: small;">Courtesy of @myhouseof8 (my sister Kelli's Instagram account)</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Storage is essential for a comfortable and healthy living space. It will provide you with somewhere to leave your belongings without your home appearing cluttered. Now, there are plenty of stand alone storage options out there that you can consider like cupboards, wardrobes, chests and more, but what about the items you want to keep out on display, but still want up and out of the way? This is where shelves come into play. Now, you may not feel confident in putting up your own shelves. If this is the case, you can call in a contractor to do it for you. However, if you do want to </span></span><a href="https://www.diy.com/ideas-advice/how-to-put-up-a-shelf/CC_npcart_1500010.art" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline;">put a shelf up yourself</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;">, you can definitely achieve this within a couple of hours at the most. Below is a video that I found that is great for building your own floating shelves, and for those of you who prefer the <i>super</i> easy route, Amazon (and many other retailers) offer great wall shelves such as <a href="https://www.amazon.com/RooLee-Floating-Shelves-Mounted-Bathroom/dp/B07HMFVH3P/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=easy%2Bshelves&qid=1597421594&sr=8-3&th=1">these</a> that can be set up in no time, as well as you can also nail/screw baskets or other "shelving" options as my sister Kelli did in her boys' room (above).</span></div></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wki3wMAbtLg" width="320" youtube-src-id="wki3wMAbtLg"></iframe></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">These are just a few different things that you can do to completely change the look and feel of your home in a really short time span. They require a little effort, but the results really will be more than worth it!</span></p></span><br />Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-68662122585412793452020-08-10T09:30:00.002-07:002020-08-10T09:30:35.998-07:00Basic Invite, a Cool, Custom Company that is far from Basic--Sponsored Post<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love when a really neat company reaches out to me and asks me to check out their product and decide if it is something my readers would be interested in. When Basic Invite contacted me I had never heard of them before, but since I had never before looked into creating custom invitations, it made a lot of sense why I hadn't. When I looked over their website, customized a few things myself, and then received my creations in the mail, I was not only impressed with what they have to offer and how user friendly the whole experience is, but their products are top notch as well. So here are 3 reasons to LOVE and use Basic Invite...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4u65a54g1dimUn2uRJNAytqMlbcrtoIYzeujGYJhfvKLTyiQCE0CV1LKxjKZFLcgXwU7rMudEKWRQOh23CfT2FarDmmxs8NDUaLwaZjj8nW6OL1B0ClmvJlMKgVQyK4_i21SN4vMhkok/s1000/BasicInviteHeader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4u65a54g1dimUn2uRJNAytqMlbcrtoIYzeujGYJhfvKLTyiQCE0CV1LKxjKZFLcgXwU7rMudEKWRQOh23CfT2FarDmmxs8NDUaLwaZjj8nW6OL1B0ClmvJlMKgVQyK4_i21SN4vMhkok/s640/BasicInviteHeader.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p>For some reason I am a sucker when it comes to the ability to truly customize something, let alone a good quality paper product. Having a background in art I respect good artistic elements, and I appreciate being able to add my own artistic flair if I feel I need to. To play around with things, I created a thank you card and a Happy Birthday card. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLhfbljtmFKduWMysgH-5V6AGDUW_dfgmQxb3uDRLX1Wrt-AAQPqVJI5FO5JX9WigTdBDhefCAjN72Rnq015fZvLBvjUW99dLOLXefQEw_NaQFjxYMjH2Oen-reKmstPbbbQ6cVvM3BE/s2048/IMG_0559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1216" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLhfbljtmFKduWMysgH-5V6AGDUW_dfgmQxb3uDRLX1Wrt-AAQPqVJI5FO5JX9WigTdBDhefCAjN72Rnq015fZvLBvjUW99dLOLXefQEw_NaQFjxYMjH2Oen-reKmstPbbbQ6cVvM3BE/s640/IMG_0559.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Since I didn't have any current need for an <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.basicinvite.com&source=gmail&ust=1597159108226000&usg=AFQjCNHQf8uQEapFeSc_VUzTlS_a8faKlA" href="https://www.basicinvite.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.3333px;" target="_blank">invitation</a>, yet have a lot of birthdays and thank yous I need to send out, I truly tested Basic Invites customization options. On both of these cards I changed what was written, changed the font and font size, as well as angle of the writing, and played around with color options. They have almost unlimited colors, 180 to be exact, and as you design a card you can change the color of each element on it. What is cool too is that it allows you to instantly see a preview of what your card will look like, (and when you get the finished product in the mail it truly matches that preview). Since I am a sucker for fonts, I was blown away at how many choices there are to choose from. </p><p>Also, their envelopes are cool. Who has ever heard that phrase before? I know I have never said it before, but truly, their envelopes are actually cool. They not only have over 40 different colors to choose from, but they also are peel and seal so they can be closed quickly and securely. I don't know about you, but not having to lick a million envelopes and be afraid of getting a papercut on my tongue is a win win. </p><p>Currently, their company is promoting <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.basicinvite.com/events/birthday-invitations.html&source=gmail&ust=1597159108226000&usg=AFQjCNGANiBzwU7sKN0TmgvawJGcxC9guw" href="https://www.basicinvite.com/events/birthday-invitations.html" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.3333px;" target="_blank">birthday invitations</a>. Since we all have birthdays every year, it is nice to know there is a place that offers ALL KINDS of invites that feel personal, fun or exactly what you need (like <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.basicinvite.com/birthday-invitations/50th-milestone-birthday-invitations.html&source=gmail&ust=1597159108226000&usg=AFQjCNHXFEcmPFbCIFIqqsHtKtEtw2Ww-Q" href="https://www.basicinvite.com/birthday-invitations/50th-milestone-birthday-invitations.html" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.3333px;" target="_blank">50th birthday invitations for him</a>--how specific is that?). With COVID affecting everything in our life right now, birthday parties can be a little tricky. But with the weather still being nice, outdoor parties are an option, and maybe you can get really creative and create a remote birthday party? Necessity breeds invention right?</p><p>What is nice is that they offer a simple address capturing service so you don't have to contact a million people for their address and then hand write them all individually down. You can share a link on almost any social media platform for your guests to reply with their address, and Basic Invite will print the address at no cost on all card orders. </p><p>Currently they're offering 15% off with coupon code: 15FF51 so that can help save if you have invitations to send out for a birthday or a wedding, or you name it, they probably have it. And if you want to get fancy, they also offer foil cards in gold, silver, and rose gold. Truly, if you can think it, they probably have that customizable option.</p><p>So these are 3 of the main reasons I think Basic Invite is worth you checking out:</p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>They really offer TRULY CUSTOM invitations.</li><li>They are made just for you---you can create your invitations just how you need/want them, and can even have samples sent to you to feel, look at, and review.</li><li>They're a very hands on, helpful company. They are ready to chat and answer any and all questions, and provide all forms of ways to reach them, allowing you to feel like you and your needs are important.</li></ol><p></p><p>So if you have a moment, and are looking to celebrate something (cuz who isn't?), you should check out <a href="https://www.basicinvite.com/">Basic Invite</a>.</p>Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-47466370105151049222020-06-11T15:04:00.001-07:002020-06-11T15:08:02.863-07:00Ways to Affordably Maximize your Garage - Contributed Post<span id="docs-internal-guid-2b419893-7fff-e7c8-180e-0fbdf5826b27"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Garages can provide incredibly useful storage, work and workout spaces, as well as offering a safe <span></span>place to keep your car sheltered from the elements. If your garage has become a dumping ground, or you're not maximizing the space, here are some tips that can help you make better use of this valuable square footage </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">without blowing the budget or devoting every second to DIY.</span></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="395" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_PGwnC0Q1_46jEDWJHK8EesbNZcWZ09dglBXhM3IuqQaLhLn4a8yf-HMu3yAOcHl-JkPpKQnGSRzM5pHSlDo_M6XGLOBBjA7dUwztoPPaQ3ZcYTQiUeFR8jtu5Lmg_OSQ_4OpS3W" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px;" width="593" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="1"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Image <a href=" https://pixabay.com/photos/tools-workshop-equipment-690038/" target="_blank">source</a></span></font></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Storage and shelving</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many of us use our garages for additional storage. If you’re running out of room indoors, you have a supply of tools, or you're a fan of outdoor activities, a garage is a fantastic space to keep bikes, helmets, coats, tools and garden toys. There are myriad options when it comes to </span><a href="https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/organizing-tips/g13106012/garage-organization/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">storing items in your garage</span></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, and you can choose systems, units and shelving according to how much floor space you have available and what kinds of items you’re looking to store. If you’re short on space, making use of the walls is an excellent idea. You can fit shelves or opt for a wall-mounted unit to keep your stuff in order and preserve valuable floor space for your car. Another option is to use hooks to hang coats and store tools. You can also use chests or free-standing units if you have power tools or household cleaning substances, for example, which need to be kept away from small fingers or paws. Open units with cubby holes work brilliantly for smaller items like bike helmets, torches and umbrellas. We personally use a pallet we cut into two, and stand our kids bike tires in them allowing them to stand neatly in a line, which conserves a lot of space vs. being dropped wherever. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJYoE-J1UbxhdBzXfYBMGjWnL8iM8G3XjPO8pDawEt-6T8E-H8t_jcSSb180R-Nj6j8BC8d0lMKyVvHfGINvo9fumqNUGN1v2JadJnXmG4OnJL7WjwqThEiz8SGbJoruAocxgbyYZ_57k/s497/Screen+Shot+2020-06-11+at+3.39.19+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="497" height="589" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJYoE-J1UbxhdBzXfYBMGjWnL8iM8G3XjPO8pDawEt-6T8E-H8t_jcSSb180R-Nj6j8BC8d0lMKyVvHfGINvo9fumqNUGN1v2JadJnXmG4OnJL7WjwqThEiz8SGbJoruAocxgbyYZ_57k/w640-h589/Screen+Shot+2020-06-11+at+3.39.19+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Below is a picture of what we did to affordably organize our garage space:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><font face="verdana" size="2">We built a rack on our ceiling for our long pieces of wood </font></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">Spent around $18 at Home Depot for the unit hanging on our wall to hold our shovels, rakes, etc </font></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">Used cupboards we no longer needed in our office to build a workbench, taking off one of the cupboard doors to hold small pieces of wood</font></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">Put up pegboard on the wall to hang tools (I'm not organized enough to really maximize this space, and wish my husband took an interest to the tools since he would really know how hang the tools most efficiently)</font></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">For a few dollars we bought brackets for the wall above the workbench, and used leftover wood to span the space between them to hold paint, etc.</font></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">Lastly there is the 5 shelf storage by our workbench that someone gave to us, but can be purchased very affordably. In January storage shelves are normally at their lowest point, or at least Costco told me that is when they have theirs on sale. You can also find them often on the Nextdoor app from your neighbors wanting to get rid of theirs for free or on the cheap.</font></li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PXAo7ndUxoWY6iT_at7SRpFOZcV5RH2mTZovqZx6b7vFmJlquYcXTdgyXb3YyG5n3x4QrSC5McVI3l_0f8dxEVczWluuPSodrtS-i8RSVGfBzEjs11uStmLQkonUhdp4SRQ93JZ0nIk/s4096/IMG_20181003_150748962.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PXAo7ndUxoWY6iT_at7SRpFOZcV5RH2mTZovqZx6b7vFmJlquYcXTdgyXb3YyG5n3x4QrSC5McVI3l_0f8dxEVczWluuPSodrtS-i8RSVGfBzEjs11uStmLQkonUhdp4SRQ93JZ0nIk/w640-h480/IMG_20181003_150748962.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Flooring</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you plan to make the most of your garage and use it as a workspace, gym or storage facility, it’s crucial to have a level, stable, robust floor. When choosing garage flooring, there are several questions to ask, including </span><a href="http://www.klutterkillerz.com/blog/posts/modular-vs-epoxy-which-type-flooring-easier-to-maintain/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">which garage flooring type is easier to clean</span></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and how much do different kinds of materials cost? Choose a type of flooring that reflects how you plan to use the space. If you’re going to be using your garage as a studio or a workshop, for example, it’s wise to invest in heavy-duty flooring that will be easy to maintain, as well as being durable. </span></p><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finer details</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For some people, a garage is a place to park the car. For others, it’s an extension of their living space. If you’re keen to </span><a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/organizing/tips/g2324/garage-organization-ideas/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">create an attractive, functional space</span></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, it’s worth putting a little time and effort into the finer details. You can create a fabulous workspace, a den for teenage kids, a gym, games room or the storage space of your dreams with a few carefully-selected accents and accessories. From potted plants and wall art to cool shelving, floor cushions and funky lighting, you can style the area based on your requirements and your personal taste. </span></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="380" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ofu4gq0tKYg_gH7z9Y3T5tixnr6yXjnqI7d4u99NBctar2NqxKAmRTLj6hsgf91EMIl8Q2-wyrithVeSmCrzAeJWN6gaFU1yQWt3uZKVO6z36pfgLgzZskDu7s0j391UV2CE-mvM" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px;" width="571" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="1"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Image <a href="https://pixabay.com/photos/office-work-desk-computer-932926/" target="_blank">source</a></span><a href="https://pixabay.com/photos/office-work-desk-computer-932926/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></a></font></td></tr></tbody></table><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><br /></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whether your garage is lying vacant, or it’s crammed full of stuff, it’s possible to transform the room to create a usable, versatile, attractive space. Investing in innovative storage solutions, affordable, durable flooring and adding personal touches will help you achieve a makeover that works for your family. From storing your car safely and keeping your tools and bikes out of the house to designing a workspace, a studio or a den, there are all kinds of things you can do to revive your garage. </span></p></span><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-81153501560261942922020-06-04T14:12:00.005-07:002020-06-04T16:54:34.643-07:00Tips for a Successful & Budget Friendly DIY Flagstone Patio AND Homemade StreamHave you ever read, or watched, so many how-to articles or videos, and then tackled a project making your own rules thinking it would turn out ok in the end, only to realize that you should have taken the warnings and tips from others more seriously? I learned the hard way when I tackled our most recent project: our new flagstone patio. If I had taken the tips I learned from those videos and articles seriously, I would have saved myself 3x the effort I ended up having to expend, as well as some tears. Thankfully I followed the tips I learned on how to do a DIY stream, so that project went smoothly. <div><br /></div><div>Today I will share with you the articles and videos that I found to be incredibly helpful, as well as some tips I learned that can't be skipped, as well as how much we spent on the overall project. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9g7_goc9oor2oEdhpxoT4agKbaaXBkWqfw_CZ3dD4t6Tw3jGKrQh8NXTiFz91bwhJWehOzeO4OJ_BsfqgUm5iSYlbq1aVvsNgyAjeaKa_07zguYry2AeNV2a2s1MbA7td2Vfo_FyGuLg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9g7_goc9oor2oEdhpxoT4agKbaaXBkWqfw_CZ3dD4t6Tw3jGKrQh8NXTiFz91bwhJWehOzeO4OJ_BsfqgUm5iSYlbq1aVvsNgyAjeaKa_07zguYry2AeNV2a2s1MbA7td2Vfo_FyGuLg/w480-h640/Patio+Pin.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>First off, one of my biggest reasons for posting how to articles is to help you realize that <i>almost</i> everything can be improved on a budget, and be done by you. Yes, if you had unlimited financial resources, you can improve things rather easily by hiring an expert. Sometimes, even without an unlimited budget you should hire an expert for some projects, but for a patio and stream you can do it yourself! </div><div><br /></div><div>When we first moved into our house we discovered there was a gas leak, and it ended up being found underground in our backyard. Unfortunately the gas line had to be dug up and so within the first month of moving in, we paid $2,000 to get the line excavated, and thus paid to have our backyard destroyed:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfJUpWrC6r_LJa0QP72aV6DIs-nkLn-QgFiU8TzeQWNws8fLr4XyA4qTSFRzM_fPGze3OY50vyVgo78JLJ9ZtZqJANBUu5iBNUKptzmYjfNR3fdRrzSjBNJhoq3aJEH1A1ySRfrqq4g5c/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfJUpWrC6r_LJa0QP72aV6DIs-nkLn-QgFiU8TzeQWNws8fLr4XyA4qTSFRzM_fPGze3OY50vyVgo78JLJ9ZtZqJANBUu5iBNUKptzmYjfNR3fdRrzSjBNJhoq3aJEH1A1ySRfrqq4g5c/w640-h360/Trench.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It was pretty disheartening. We learned that when filling in a hole you need to not skimp on dirt, but overfill the trench because with rain, sprinklers, and general settling, the hole ends up much lower than you'd expect, and because of that, we have a 2" drop in our lawn where it was once excavated. Someday we will work to have this remedied, but it taught us that <b>skimping in areas on projects due to time, cost, supplies, etc. can come back to bite you</b>. I wish I had remembered not to skimp on things when we started our flagstone patio project.</div><div><br /></div><div>What started off the chain of projects was that the upper parts of our waterfall, that were put in prior to us moving in, started leaking. This is what they looked like before:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7HdblWNMnaHMYZn3bTes79K4H68ruhHhR4-Dk8l_I8tAkhA_aaldofN4QtcKzDfdXUi8sNiR9XWu-RLsN-kvx8A-YTjMgQHPizRdf31FbjQuf0vzXYXIaSdIaEzXVIfoUW6CK5Ve3gQ/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7HdblWNMnaHMYZn3bTes79K4H68ruhHhR4-Dk8l_I8tAkhA_aaldofN4QtcKzDfdXUi8sNiR9XWu-RLsN-kvx8A-YTjMgQHPizRdf31FbjQuf0vzXYXIaSdIaEzXVIfoUW6CK5Ve3gQ/w640-h360/Pond+upper+before.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2">Before: Closeup of the uppermost part of our 3 part waterfall</font><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZi8TKL5aso1KsRqeAEcCP2FKv-6EFFIVsrKl1jjTelhvUHOum_5tniNdU0mCqQPMqzybhJ6aGVREzjLDkTS4IoTe4IywBV1IQVVW37aMHTQSCijVL80itepkJARx3JD5ue9jzR77WnSs/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZi8TKL5aso1KsRqeAEcCP2FKv-6EFFIVsrKl1jjTelhvUHOum_5tniNdU0mCqQPMqzybhJ6aGVREzjLDkTS4IoTe4IywBV1IQVVW37aMHTQSCijVL80itepkJARx3JD5ue9jzR77WnSs/w640-h360/Pond+Upper+entire.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2">Before: Overall look of our three part waterfall</font><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">For those of you who are wondering what that brown covering is that is showing, 3 years ago we bought <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/08/cheap-and-easy-natural-pond-liner.html" target="_blank">Rock on a Roll</a> to cover up the black pond liner as shown below:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XPcq-8p5A4vr_aY8yhL5Zh7B64i30aqFJXC4xizNG8lYtvK9-H3uv9-AilD1F6Ppce_JDysbgQ5t_j7zIz1dNdEoq7IXj_-syttZaoww8jQgp5K9LqjR7OYb2aQ3JvjJxIbAqymDw2Q/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XPcq-8p5A4vr_aY8yhL5Zh7B64i30aqFJXC4xizNG8lYtvK9-H3uv9-AilD1F6Ppce_JDysbgQ5t_j7zIz1dNdEoq7IXj_-syttZaoww8jQgp5K9LqjR7OYb2aQ3JvjJxIbAqymDw2Q/w640-h360/Black+waterfall.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We thought it looked so much better once we put it in (which it really did improve it), but still the waterfall looked so rudimentary:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTq8LL0AEGXDc8xOyxJCktV-y7bSaiVBD55BM-oi1SQr3An_BVVZJZIZxdUfDdeNS0R16DiKBGsXqj4l93rEUUMfO52KYakEJqeOJQ4o1DHRoazR3dV084IAuRP6AjJn4wV9nJvNJ2mF8/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTq8LL0AEGXDc8xOyxJCktV-y7bSaiVBD55BM-oi1SQr3An_BVVZJZIZxdUfDdeNS0R16DiKBGsXqj4l93rEUUMfO52KYakEJqeOJQ4o1DHRoazR3dV084IAuRP6AjJn4wV9nJvNJ2mF8/w360-h640/Pond+before+big+rocks+bottom.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Once the waterfall area started leaking, we were ready to get rid of the pond entirely. We had gotten an expert to come out and quote how much it would cost to make the waterfall and pond look nice, and it was over $10,000! We figured that once it stopped working, we would have to get rid of it because we weren't going to spend that much money on a non-necessity. However, when we thought of all the fill dirt we would need to fill in the hole of the pond, and then thought about how we had a working pump and hose still, we decided to reconfigure the upper area to look more like a stream. We enlisted the help of our four boys and filled in the holes that were there, and dug a stream instead. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">Stream Tip #1: You don't need to dig very deep/wide</h3><div>They dug about 8 inches deep and about 2-3 feet wide. Unfortunately I didn't take any during pictures, but some words of advice that I learned was that you don't need it very deep, just deep enough for the rocks you are going to put on the sides to slightly rise above the bank. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Stream Tip #2: Make it curve naturally</h3><div>You also want to make it look natural by creating a lazy arch to it, rather than sharp angles or just a straight line. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Stream Tip #3: Put barrier down before pond liner</h3><div>Once you have dug your stream, put down cardboard, newspaper, or something that will allow the pond liner to be on something other than dirt or rocks (to help prevent puncturing). </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Stream Tip #4: Lay pond liner starting from bottom of stream to top</h3><div>We bought <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/smartpond-84-in-L-x-120-in-W-Black-PVC-Pond-Liner-200-Gallon/1000862966" target="_blank">this PVC liner</a> from Lowes, and needed two packs for the 25' x 3' wide stream we had just made. Since the liner wasn't in the dimensions we needed, we laid it down, allowed for it to extend over the bank about 10" or so (enough to stake it down and cover with rocks and mulch), and then cut the excess. Your stream does not need to be steep, and only needs to be 2 inch drop per 10 feet of stream per the <a href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/landscaping/backyard-waterfalls/build-a-backyard-waterfall-and-stream/" target="_blank">Family Handyman</a>, but you do need to make sure that the pond liner at the bottom of the stream, is <i>below</i> the upper pond liner of the upper part of the stream. As the water moves down the stream, you don't want it hitting overlapping pond liner and going under that liner. If you lay them over each other as the water flows down the stream, as long as you overlap the two layers by several inches, you don't need to worry about a leak. Since I had excess pond liner, I was able to have two layers of the PVC liner in areas I was worried about foot traffic, thus preventing holes. This liner seems like it would be easy to puncture, but it is surprisingly very strong and the two layers were probably not necessary.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Note:</b> The above link for the Family Handyman was a very valuable resource that provides every step you need to take to create a stream and waterfall from the very beginning. Plus, his stream and waterfall look WAY more professional than mine turned out.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Stream Tip #5 Optional: Rock on a Roll adds protection and aesthetics</h3><div>Like I mentioned above, 3 years ago I purchased <a href="https://www.rock-on-a-roll.com/" target="_blank">Rock on a Roll</a> to hide the black pond liner that showed. After 3 years it is in like new condition (except for some coloring of where the water line hit). This stuff is built to last, and it has withstood me changing up where I put it many times, so it malleable and durable. I laid it down over our pond liner before placing the rocks, and thus as rocks move or shift, it will look like it is either a rock wall or a sandy stream bottom.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Stream Tip #6: Place large rocks then small rocks</h3><div>There are fancy streams out there with boulders, and waterfalls, etc. but ours is a simple stream that incorporates 4-8" Cobblestone and 1 1/2" River Rock. I first placed the longer and larger cobblestones along the inside walls of the stream bed, with as many of them slightly rising above the bank's edge as possible. I then placed a few in the middle of the stream bed, keeping in mind to not create a dam. I then used a few, ideally the more flat ones, around the outer edges of the stream. Lastly, we used about 1/2 ton of the river rock to go along the banks of the stream 5-7" out, as well as the bottom of the stream. </div><div><br /></div><div>We used a similar method to reconfigure the rocks around our pond, but unfortunately due to the pond being steep on some sides, as well as so deep, we couldn't use the Rock on a Roll, and we couldn't put rocks all along the sides and bottom. If you are creating a pond from the beginning, make sure to make ledges around the inside of the pond that can hold your rocks so that it looks more natural.</div><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Bonus Tips: </h3><div>We bought a 5' bridge on <a href="https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Costway-5-Wooden-Bridge-Stained-Finish-Decorative-Solid-Wood-Garden-Pond-Arch-Walkway-as-pic/16732637/product.html?refccid=JZIJYICOF7P26CKFXS67A5GQ3U&searchidx=1&option=27833715&kwds=5%20ft%20bridge&rfmt=">Overstock</a> for around $110 using Rakuten cash back and coupons, that we then stained and put polyurethane on, (link is to one that is already stained, but probably could still use a coat of polyurethane to extend it's outdoor life). Even though our stream is just 3' wide, we needed the 5 foot span for it to feel stable. </div><div><br /></div><div>These tips will also work for a dry streambed that can help for flash flood runoff, or just aesthetics. Since we had the pond pump already, we just brought the pond hose up to the top of the stream, put it into a tupperware box we had cut a hole for the overflow to flow out of, covered it with rock liner and rocks, and that made the stream begin it's natural looking flow.</div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rOzwvoabDUROho5aufPgWIi25X3O2lfB83_Qr0zpj7E32lWzY13U87_TmyWRaBKMdA5AtVu0Rhyphenhypheng3c9dQVGtz1UYsqFbUmLKO-LWkRVRkGQQZ-JqjPGFURnipyQ7pDPwTkO4YszL0I8/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="DIY stream with bridge" border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="3948" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rOzwvoabDUROho5aufPgWIi25X3O2lfB83_Qr0zpj7E32lWzY13U87_TmyWRaBKMdA5AtVu0Rhyphenhypheng3c9dQVGtz1UYsqFbUmLKO-LWkRVRkGQQZ-JqjPGFURnipyQ7pDPwTkO4YszL0I8/w640-h498/Bridge.jpg" title="How to create your own stream" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2">We bought Ice Plants, Butterfly Bushes and Candytuft. <br />I am hoping that once we get them established, they'll thrive in the sunny/dry area they are planted.</font><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">How to Put in a Flagstone Patio (& what not to do)</h3><div>Boy did we go wrong on this one. What I found most helpful, and wish I had followed to a T, was this video I found on <a href="https://youtu.be/oPDW1xQ7_SE" target="_blank">YouTube</a>:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oPDW1xQ7_SE" width="320" youtube-src-id="oPDW1xQ7_SE"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>In the video he explains what supplies you need as well as each step of the process. A few things I have learned that are not covered in the video are:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Thicker flagstone weighs more = more expensive, but is sturdier and doesn't break or move as easily. I wanted flagstone similar to what he used in the video, because it probably was only about 1" thick, which would be cheaper, and easier to work with. Unfortunately it was not available at our local rock/soil yard, and we ended up getting Arizona flagstone that was about 2" thick. For 70 sq ft we spent $365 for a little over 1.5 tons. We ended up having a little extra, but it is nice to have extra because it is really hard to figure out how to configure them as a puzzle together, so more rocks equals more shapes to choose from. The leftovers we used to make little stepping stones.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivd4I6fYMWSA3GrrOQUdFMFeGP84IlgKUyKKQNwzK7qwpKxcbU9Zab8JRA_pCcswrEXChGxPuWZSo04WzWmD8jDWVvVqgA5pVvtQJsqgqiTsKrLRihtxEouXZ4c39U6PovdSm-EbSuTEg/s4096/Step+stones.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="2841" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivd4I6fYMWSA3GrrOQUdFMFeGP84IlgKUyKKQNwzK7qwpKxcbU9Zab8JRA_pCcswrEXChGxPuWZSo04WzWmD8jDWVvVqgA5pVvtQJsqgqiTsKrLRihtxEouXZ4c39U6PovdSm-EbSuTEg/w444-h640/Step+stones.jpg" width="444" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSEywfgyg6R7rFMhMDU13dmiEvncCKtn1j6BrY6utLBDiHaT4HSWTTzpB6pfXf-b5MkcR_yY0B25JWFndYi-4KZ_LB2wGyW-jGTu8F4ZK8-w2wEBRE3udVzlpWCf35tHwpn-guOrVies/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSEywfgyg6R7rFMhMDU13dmiEvncCKtn1j6BrY6utLBDiHaT4HSWTTzpB6pfXf-b5MkcR_yY0B25JWFndYi-4KZ_LB2wGyW-jGTu8F4ZK8-w2wEBRE3udVzlpWCf35tHwpn-guOrVies/w360-h640/Flagstone+2+yrs+ago.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2">I found this picture on my phone from 2 years prior. I was hoping to put in a flagstone patio then, but then forgot about it. Funny to see that two years later we ended up getting the same stuff I had taken a picture of and had forgotten about.</font><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Another thing I learned is that Polymeric Sand is not advisable to use in between the rocks, but to use the type of sand that he references in the video, which is called all kinds of names. At our local rock/soil yard, it was called Concrete Sand. It is a little courser then you would use in a sandbox, and thus doesn't wash away as easily, or is something ants like to have a hay day with. In regards to Polymeric Sand, some people suggest using it because it creates almost concrete in between your flagstones, preventing weeds and erosion of sand. However, the experts on the subject said that it will eventually settle, crack, and then be a major pain to remove/clean up, and will in the end still allow weeds to come through.</li><li>To calculate how much sand or gravel base you need, here is a helpful equation: </li></ul></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><blockquote><div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>To determine how much sand, topsoil or stone you need to fill an area:</b></div></div></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote><div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Measure number of square feet in the area.</li><li># of square feet x depth in feet = # of cubic feet.</li><li># of cubic feet /divided by 27 = # of cubic yards.</li><li># of cubic yards x (unit weight in pounds / 2000) = # of tons needed.</li></ol></div></div></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div></blockquote><div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Before: What the area looked like before the patio (and us changing up the rocks around the pond:</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWi0PUoiEQwfaOk5bk8zGW-iRvX718Ql_Y0l1Hh2chcBDr9h1jOUE_F2BSfdiCsxUej5st6gWYLQ7Oz0vls3v3iwnh0XKIrJpAVun20xCELqamErte5Es1ECupgKs_KnIZqflHNh7zow/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWi0PUoiEQwfaOk5bk8zGW-iRvX718Ql_Y0l1Hh2chcBDr9h1jOUE_F2BSfdiCsxUej5st6gWYLQ7Oz0vls3v3iwnh0XKIrJpAVun20xCELqamErte5Es1ECupgKs_KnIZqflHNh7zow/w640-h360/Mulch+before.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">After: What it looks like with the Flagstone patio put in:</h3></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGry2wM21UMrU39AJPr2qdSYfFTgFxvhQmfgor84qN9poBP7bRLxABqFSBNsPDxy02ltbF24i4P2ZKPNhBnCoYh2AbMLkPn43QwIs4amc-hxRxn1seJ0pMuqNPpdFtCCGyCPCTBxLq6Q/s4096/Flagstonepatio+%252B+everything.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGry2wM21UMrU39AJPr2qdSYfFTgFxvhQmfgor84qN9poBP7bRLxABqFSBNsPDxy02ltbF24i4P2ZKPNhBnCoYh2AbMLkPn43QwIs4amc-hxRxn1seJ0pMuqNPpdFtCCGyCPCTBxLq6Q/w480-h640/Flagstonepatio+%252B+everything.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34b7K-FLV4Q6J5k8wAyMO6ayI7iuiglaDc30o5OyuwYUfSpKfqQjcJoarNd5KV8t-StTvffVv0LziMlviTl6Bp-UML6vqYiiiho99ih8oz2cMkxlnwMe1DNpp1XmCYnSWznBerAplSwk/s4096/Everything+%252B+lilies.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34b7K-FLV4Q6J5k8wAyMO6ayI7iuiglaDc30o5OyuwYUfSpKfqQjcJoarNd5KV8t-StTvffVv0LziMlviTl6Bp-UML6vqYiiiho99ih8oz2cMkxlnwMe1DNpp1XmCYnSWznBerAplSwk/w480-h640/Everything+%252B+lilies.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2">Notice the flagstone walkway using the leftover rocks. We ran out of the better sized rocks and had only little ones to finish the pathway with. Still makes it much easier for my kids to walk through the mulch to get to our trampoline.<br /></font><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h2>What we did wrong & took 3x long to fix:</h2><div style="text-align: left;">In the video he talks about digging the area for your patio about 6" deep. Because we had to remove about 2" of mulch, and then dig down about 2" into the soil, I figured it would be good enough. I then leveled the area, tamped it down, then laid the aggregate base, tamped it down, then laid the concrete sand, tamped it down, then we laid out our flagstone pieces to determine the layout.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIwQzoXePOe3XpLLs5FBbDC7C8ag5euIj3DOnRODDUq5H6a4PGOXiGbkSVKNuEJKtp00R7x3ZX8mTdMz7mtS1gkc8x1a9K1bREfsKpbHiCYtQQq4xuCdHMW1qvZaLHgoFpzrRvpmdfUuw/s3264/IMG_0244.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIwQzoXePOe3XpLLs5FBbDC7C8ag5euIj3DOnRODDUq5H6a4PGOXiGbkSVKNuEJKtp00R7x3ZX8mTdMz7mtS1gkc8x1a9K1bREfsKpbHiCYtQQq4xuCdHMW1qvZaLHgoFpzrRvpmdfUuw/w480-h640/IMG_0244.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><font size="2">This is the aggregate base (gray) that goes down first, then the concrete sand (brown)</font><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7bUa1r3dVNScP5N4Y9hj1LjUQXN27E3lksZYN6koVqnjaTHJAiVIVVG8HGV9hw7FzHS3cm99S4mz0nzhGRv_pVJovNFAfZaJgnlUv6PSRGZXyZmeTE7qaMZPu5uJ39OLVjIQArqhAB-k/s3264/IMG_0232.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7bUa1r3dVNScP5N4Y9hj1LjUQXN27E3lksZYN6koVqnjaTHJAiVIVVG8HGV9hw7FzHS3cm99S4mz0nzhGRv_pVJovNFAfZaJgnlUv6PSRGZXyZmeTE7qaMZPu5uJ39OLVjIQArqhAB-k/w480-h640/IMG_0232.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font size="2">This is our first configuration attempt</font></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>At this point I started to panic. The rocks were so high and I started to question if they were even flagstone rock. The video showed him giving a shimmy shake to each rock and it would work it's way down in the sand, and then you would just need some sand pushed into the cracks courtesy of a push broom. These rocks were way too high, too heavy, and were not allowing us to get them into the sand at all. Plus they weren't going to be the right height with our grass line, or pond area. I was panicking.</div><div><br /></div><div>So I hefted one rock out of the way, dug and dug and dug, deeper than the layer of the soil, and put a little bit of aggregate in, hefted the piece into the hole, measured it with a level, stepped on it to make sure it was secure, and did that with <i>every. single. rock</i> around the grass perimeter. I realized that I should have dug at least 6" deep, 2-3" deeper than I did originally, and then everything would have worked out fine. Because I had cut that corner, I spent so much time trying to get each rock to it's own individual depth to match the surrounding rocks that had been lowered. It was exhausting and frustrating and I was making very slow progress. We then decided to remove all of the rocks so that I could just dig the entire area to the proper depth, which ended up being annoying, but less time and effort than the one by one rock method. </div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately, we didn't get the suggested level of aggregate and then sand under every rock because of my mistake. Fortunately, because the rocks are so massive, the patio has endured many rainstorms, sprinklers that spray into sections of the patio, as well as furniture, and it has been incredibly stable still. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHcgEiIMaC-QoJM4u6uRhnev3RrcXB_bxpNQRXkxZrvbPH-Ng4U6XpeFmFAYX3NBesM_YGbLaqZlVxa5pla65CbhlqlXRycQIsL1SmHu_PbV0c57TkW8JxeClMpRyGvFuU5zlliHQHew/s3895/Chairs+closeup.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2811" data-original-width="3895" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHcgEiIMaC-QoJM4u6uRhnev3RrcXB_bxpNQRXkxZrvbPH-Ng4U6XpeFmFAYX3NBesM_YGbLaqZlVxa5pla65CbhlqlXRycQIsL1SmHu_PbV0c57TkW8JxeClMpRyGvFuU5zlliHQHew/w640-h462/Chairs+closeup.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2">Hard to see the individual rocks due to how sunny it was, but in person, <br />even though the sand is similar in color, you can tell there is a flagstone patio 😊</font><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0qOH_C3lA1T6gH2PseAq5AI5SAKvWxw8I2U9S7GdauPij3-89oECTUbiglKXFYWPIif2bt_GwZptRsPETaM9t6FKkan4mWnzpSLACPCJt4EgKGy7L9xLLgtyWMa-_xTHoVDXbXtlAOw/s4096/Chairs+distant.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0qOH_C3lA1T6gH2PseAq5AI5SAKvWxw8I2U9S7GdauPij3-89oECTUbiglKXFYWPIif2bt_GwZptRsPETaM9t6FKkan4mWnzpSLACPCJt4EgKGy7L9xLLgtyWMa-_xTHoVDXbXtlAOw/w480-h640/Chairs+distant.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2">From this angle you can see our lovely trampoline that the flagstone path allows for much easier access to now</font><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Overall cost of the project:</h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocxrXZBDG59EOS_IOeIxhqEjCpVAJg2XGTFs9Dk-OHww0fNvJerUfAhrtVOJMdB6afDLn7w-mikhYHUnkEQSsVJIf4WKfQzVxKGhXrRZakV3Bro1b6xTaKNJhxV8axmI3C3O06N7F_hE/s898/Cost.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="898" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocxrXZBDG59EOS_IOeIxhqEjCpVAJg2XGTFs9Dk-OHww0fNvJerUfAhrtVOJMdB6afDLn7w-mikhYHUnkEQSsVJIf4WKfQzVxKGhXrRZakV3Bro1b6xTaKNJhxV8axmI3C3O06N7F_hE/w320-h222/Cost.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>In the end I wish we had changed up our stream earlier because it looks so much better than before, and was way easier to accomplish than I expected. And lastly, I wish I had followed instructions on laying a flagstone patio in the first place. I hope that something I have shared will allow you to accomplish one or both projects more smoothly than we did!</div><div><br /></div>Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-20064738812636600442020-04-27T12:12:00.001-07:002020-04-27T12:15:09.252-07:00Maximizing your Bedroom's Decor for a Better Night's Sleep<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lately my posts have centered around affordable wall art to help decorate your home, but today with the help of a contributor, I want to talk about how a few changes in your bedroom's decor can positively impact your sleep each night.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zEZkYo5ReNk3eAOfWaee2M2bgBY_-F01EhaDUTje5qmckNf5wa1i0lxVGy_BszXlpkzqQA0jcAXZ_CKZ3MIvpdQL9eu3mKl4SGbzGThXTJlBQ1ErKb-z9sYr4rov84bvwLDeowm4A2Y/s1600/Bedroom+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How 5 simple changes to what you put in your room can make a hugely positive impact on your sleep and your health." border="0" data-original-height="1267" data-original-width="1600" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zEZkYo5ReNk3eAOfWaee2M2bgBY_-F01EhaDUTje5qmckNf5wa1i0lxVGy_BszXlpkzqQA0jcAXZ_CKZ3MIvpdQL9eu3mKl4SGbzGThXTJlBQ1ErKb-z9sYr4rov84bvwLDeowm4A2Y/s640/Bedroom+Pin.jpg" title="Maximizing your room's decor for a better night's sleep" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am a little embarrassed to share how simple and non-fancy our bedroom is, but since my husband and I prefer simplicity, and since he is not one for knick knacks, our bedroom decor reflects our preference for minimalism. When we first were married we spent a lot of time learning how to make our bedroom conducive to a good night's sleep, (because when dealing with a newborn's sleep schedule, we needed as many things within our control to give us good, quality sleep when we could get it). Eventually I would like to splurge on a bedroom set I absolutely adore, but instead we have spent our money on our mattress since it is more important for our health, and have followed four other steps that allow for our bedroom to give us the best night's sleep.</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Did you know that going without sleep for an extended period of time can be fatal? When my husband went without any sleep for a few days in a row, due to a decline in his health, I was amazed at how much was effected by the lack of sleep. Not only do we need 7-9 hours of sleep each night for our health to be optimal, we also need quality sleep as well. So here are a few pieces of bedroom furniture and decor that will give you a better night's rest:</span></div>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16pt; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. A Better Mattress</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When it comes to the items that can help you to get a better quality night’s sleep, your mattress sits at the top of the list. Most people keep their mattresses for far too long, way exceeding their typical 8 years of recommended usage, causing sleep difficulties and discomfort as the mattress begins to sag and age. With spring, memory foam, hybrid, and </span><a href="https://boxdropbirmingham.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">adjustable mattress</span></a><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> options available, there’s a mattress out there to suit every body size and shape as well as to suit every preference. To ensure you get the best night’s sleep it’s always worth speaking with a mattress professional who can advise you on the right firmness for your sleeping style and who will also be able to help you get the best deal. </span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We recently changed out our 10 year queen-sized Tempur-Pedic mattress to a king-sized Tempur-Pedic. We debated about going to a traditional spring mattress, or the many other different online mattresses out there now, but because we had been so happy with our financial splurge 10 years prior, we only preferred something bigger, we stayed with the same brand. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As I researched the many mattresses out there, I came across a company that does a great job at comparing most mattresses head to head via videos and articles. If you would like to compare Tempur-Pedic to Sleep Number, or Purple to Nectar, etc, check out <a href="http://myslumberyard.com/">myslumberyard.com</a>,or search for them on YouTube with the mattress brand names you're considering. Below is one of their most recent videos:</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/sqlJEBWjRIE/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sqlJEBWjRIE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></span></div>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16pt; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. Blackout blinds or curtains</span></h2>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Our bodies are programmed to be extremely sensitive to light and will naturally struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep in a lit room. Darkness signals to our bodies that it is time to rest and also promotes the production of Melatonin that relaxes the body preparing it for sleep. Exposure to light while trying to fall asleep, or in the very early hours of the morning can block the body’s natural sleep response and inhibit the release of melatonin leading to trouble falling and staying asleep. To keep your room dark, no matter the time of day or season, install a blackout blind or a pair of blackout curtains that fully block outside sunlight and be sure to turn off any bedside lights. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When we first moved into our home 3.5 years ago, we had to purchase curtains since our home has casement windows, and blinds don't work with casement windows. Since I like light and airy colors, I bought a pair of white curtains that supposedly were good at blocking out light. Unfortunately they did not work and we had to return them. However, after extensive research, I was grateful to find that Amazon had some white, truly blackout curtains available that we have been very happy with. The key is the inner black lining, and the thickness of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/NICETOWN-Insulated-Darkening-Curtains-Grey-Greyish/dp/B01CS31UZK">these curtains</a>. I am not an Amazon affiliate, and thus do not receive anything from recommending these curtains to you, but love them so much, </span><span style="text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">and love the dark, dark mornings they afford us when we want to sleep in.</span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45u_TlaLPa56lgKMTpwMeHdO9FZWLdT-jD-Le5K3SHumKSIymSGK6zEDA7vKfLEdND9AUNGKPV783l37UCqoXk4s9DTEuulGxHIkQ3EjmZMpkdw6hVMHJkdegI0o_01jQnrafXHUYDAI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-27+at+11.32.59+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="521" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45u_TlaLPa56lgKMTpwMeHdO9FZWLdT-jD-Le5K3SHumKSIymSGK6zEDA7vKfLEdND9AUNGKPV783l37UCqoXk4s9DTEuulGxHIkQ3EjmZMpkdw6hVMHJkdegI0o_01jQnrafXHUYDAI/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-27+at+11.32.59+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy of Amazon.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16pt; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />3. Cool and calm colors </span></h2>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Most of us have a favorite color but did you know that the color you choose to paint your bedroom can also have a significant impact on the quality of your sleep? Blue is widely considered to be the best color to paint a bedroom, as it is associated with feelings of calm which when relayed to the brain can help to lower your blood pressure and to reduce feelings of stress. Other cool, neutral colors such as gray, silver, and beige are also calming bedroom colors, and warm colors such as pale orange and yellow can also work well by making your bedroom feel warm and cozy. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We chose to paint our room Silver Gray by Benjamin Moore (2131-60 BM). I thought I was buying a highly popular gray colored paint, and was surprised that it is definitely blue, despite there being no mention of blue in the name. However, since blue is my favorite color, and "Silver Gray" is a very gentle and soft blue, we have been happy with its calming effect. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you can see in the images below, this paint color, just like all paint colors, can take on a different look depending on the light and the surrounding:</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvaMpKkRCqVcIwW1m9jqHyH0p9mOzq08Q_E01obnvVyTurL08aSVAb8cZ2cmjsDH-5gXuvmMAKt9o2pR70c_u9wPG7FL7ilKjxBqrD1uNkAaSOVeCOANyCWV7yeL4zqasqSGnTP4tzy1Q/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-27+at+11.23.25+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="526" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvaMpKkRCqVcIwW1m9jqHyH0p9mOzq08Q_E01obnvVyTurL08aSVAb8cZ2cmjsDH-5gXuvmMAKt9o2pR70c_u9wPG7FL7ilKjxBqrD1uNkAaSOVeCOANyCWV7yeL4zqasqSGnTP4tzy1Q/s640/Screen+Shot+2020-04-27+at+11.23.25+AM.png" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silver Gray in master bedroom. Courtesy of decorpad.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaR-BF7fSmcJQKjigPVm73vU9nfmwZ5s04XJeDaw3RxC0x3_VtbKf2UgFFNrlwMDtOHA8jkTrOVF4patSeUTXbq05g-_pZPirdsTBfKF3H3nllJAS74GIdmjBS4chObACuhUGaYqsi4UQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-27+at+11.24.20+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="493" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaR-BF7fSmcJQKjigPVm73vU9nfmwZ5s04XJeDaw3RxC0x3_VtbKf2UgFFNrlwMDtOHA8jkTrOVF4patSeUTXbq05g-_pZPirdsTBfKF3H3nllJAS74GIdmjBS4chObACuhUGaYqsi4UQ/s640/Screen+Shot+2020-04-27+at+11.24.20+AM.png" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silver Gray in bathroom. Courtesy of decorpad.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16pt; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />4. Bedside cabinets</span></h2>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although it is perfectly possible to get a great night’s sleep without bedside cabinets they certainly help to organize the essentials that you may want to have close to you throughout the night. Although your phone and other stimulating devices should be tucked away in a drawer to avoid distraction, it’s helpful to have a glass of water by your bed so that you can have a drink without needing to fully wake up and walk to the kitchen and many people also like to keep a pen and paper handy so that they can write down random thoughts that they know they need to remember the following day.</span></div>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16pt; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5. Temperature control</span></h2>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whether you have an air conditioning unit or a fan, it’s best to have some form of temperature control in your bedroom to keep it between </span><a href="https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/cant-sleep-adjust-the-temperature" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">60 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit</span></a><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, which is the optimum temperature for sleep. It’s always much easier to sleep in a colder room than a hot one as you can easily layer up with blankets and throws, so don’t worry too much if the room falls below 60. Some people also find the ambient background noise of a fan or AC unit also helps them to sleep by covering up other more distracting noises like the sound of traffic, but a fan or AC that is too loud can have the opposite effect. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So there you have it, whether you are creating a </span><a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2015/11/crib-repurposed-to-best-big-kid-bed-ever.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">bedroom for your children </span></a><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">or are doing one up for yourself a few simple items can make a big difference to your sleep. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since sleep makes up nearly 50% of each of our lives, I would love to hear w</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">hat you have personally found to be a game changer in helping you or your family sleep! Please share what has worked for you by commenting below...</span></span></div>
Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-32249161633039507922020-04-15T11:57:00.001-07:002021-12-30T08:54:33.955-08:00Free Restoration Proclamation Printable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'd like to first start off today's post by saying how grateful I am to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am grateful to be able to worship my Savior, learn of him and his teachings in the Bible and Book of Mormon, and to have his church (& thus teachings) to bless my life. One of the blessings of this church is that God continues to provide revelation to His sons and daughters, and He speaks through His living prophet when it comes to providing worldwide revelation. On April 5th, 2020, His prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, shared a new proclamation with the world. If you would like this historic document to put up in your home, I have created it to match the Family Proclamation, Articles of Faith and Living Christ documents that I have already made. This document, and the ones I made prior, are sized at 24"x 30," and can be printed affordably through Office Depot and Staples using their engineering prints. I have heard of others printing these files much much smaller, and you are welcome to use the JPEG file as you see fit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEM9f0EguZPIKEMt4yVsySHh7DznUTVud1K4G7pFIUQvBN0vXycXqlKMygpFBqF9W5y3ZloikZmyThgI4SVZNYJA1y9nDWhEGx9eftIbQo_moSlWe69-FP6JtzK9ecMJUy_S2Xhao16yY/s1600/Restoration+Proclamation+Pin.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1300" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEM9f0EguZPIKEMt4yVsySHh7DznUTVud1K4G7pFIUQvBN0vXycXqlKMygpFBqF9W5y3ZloikZmyThgI4SVZNYJA1y9nDWhEGx9eftIbQo_moSlWe69-FP6JtzK9ecMJUy_S2Xhao16yY/s640/Restoration+Proclamation+Pin.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Read on to see how to download this file, as well as get the links to the other free printables.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
Although I only have the large printable of the Family Proclamation in my home, many of you fellow members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wanted to have all four documents to frame and put up in your homes. Because I love playing with fonts, and playing around in Photoshop, making these printables was a lot of fun for me. I know many out there sell them and I hate to take away from their opportunities, but since our family lives on a tight budget, I wanted to offer these for free for anyone else who would like to have them in their home to remind themselves and their families what is most important in life, and what will create lasting peace and happiness.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Because I made the other printables for a 24"x36" poster frame, I made this printable the same size. The fact that the file is a jpeg, you will be able to minimize it's size if you prefer printing it smaller. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
How to get an Engineering Print</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Staples and OfficeMax are the two places near me that offer affordable blueprints/engineering prints. Although they can print in color, these prints are often for large black and white prints. I have had them print a large photograph for my boys' room before, but large amounts of grayscale does not come out in the best quality. For prints that are all font, they work excellently. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Click <a href="https://www.officedepot.com/configurator/pod/#/product/blueprints">here</a> to upload the file to OfficeDepot, who charges $3.36 for a 24"x36" print currently. If your computer is like mine, and blocks the ability to upload the file, call your nearest store and ask them for their print/copy email. You can then email the jpeg file directly to them with the size you would like them to print it. They will email you when it is ready for pickup.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once you order it, they will contact you to let you know when your print is ready.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How to Download:</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sDygigGXp2sfEDfX6zSIqKAeq8F-BFaB/view?usp=sharing">here</a> to download the jpeg file or click image below.</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifo2japjUXVxLmiHA7PqdcUfryZYZNy2bITQAwIhKs9JVxaK1PSmX-6Ig0w89O2L4PO4kAtAtNnSulvt_l_R7FafTtisx_mPY9kCAFPyLVYUys0zihCr-mDyhMxch3gp_5yQMYwH2sAXo/s1600/Restoration+Proclamation.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifo2japjUXVxLmiHA7PqdcUfryZYZNy2bITQAwIhKs9JVxaK1PSmX-6Ig0w89O2L4PO4kAtAtNnSulvt_l_R7FafTtisx_mPY9kCAFPyLVYUys0zihCr-mDyhMxch3gp_5yQMYwH2sAXo/s640/Restoration+Proclamation.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
To get the other Free Printables, click <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/10/three-free-large-printables.html" target="_blank">here</a></h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
If you are not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and want to know more about what me and my family believe, please take a moment to visit <a href="http://comeuntochrist.org/">comeuntochrist.org</a> where you can learn about what over 16 million worldwide members believe. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Thank you for your continued support, and hope that you enjoy this fourth freebie.</div>
</div>
Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-47719265219403176842020-04-02T12:27:00.000-07:002020-04-02T12:48:12.550-07:00Now Offering Hymn Lyric Printables & Looking for Ideas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Times sure are interesting lately with the world sheltering in place due to the Coronavirus. For the first few weeks I felt unmotivated to do anything, but as the weeks have gone on, I realized that now is the perfect time to start doing something I have meant to do for years--create printables of hymn lyrics and scripture verses that are meaningful. I just recently created these shown below from the song "Count Your Many Blessings,"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGLwEn_ixPGa1rhTk5-YGr_sGpwFJMJ2MD8HHIvBRvUotuU08V_rxkLGip-ZWLjSK-nL2lc1_OTYQfB0E29GLmKiFXLxTcSrgxtsQsE7hSk-vRWqfnVuqaXYMaAyeCh14w6KYGGf9U5pM/s1600/CYB+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1270" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGLwEn_ixPGa1rhTk5-YGr_sGpwFJMJ2MD8HHIvBRvUotuU08V_rxkLGip-ZWLjSK-nL2lc1_OTYQfB0E29GLmKiFXLxTcSrgxtsQsE7hSk-vRWqfnVuqaXYMaAyeCh14w6KYGGf9U5pM/s640/CYB+Pin.jpg" title="Count Your Many Blessings 4 Printables" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
and feel like these song lyrics are extra pertinent for what we are experiencing today.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
I have had these four printables on our family's office walls for the last couple years, and received a lot of requests for them.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZxXu91u2OHo7IcjxErhJHXJfeUSF3hOGh-du1HofuVwD4G9-w1JAIN1uphXZXQSBfrzVrn5h4nTRcsUMpUx12sJ4QsyorN_M3wWZKThmoBOt6dT2fJr_HX3kgQcPOS4qYl3Er3-Criw/s1600/Frames.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZxXu91u2OHo7IcjxErhJHXJfeUSF3hOGh-du1HofuVwD4G9-w1JAIN1uphXZXQSBfrzVrn5h4nTRcsUMpUx12sJ4QsyorN_M3wWZKThmoBOt6dT2fJr_HX3kgQcPOS4qYl3Er3-Criw/s640/Frames.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ours in our office</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Unfortunately the computer I created them on is no longer working, so I recreated them and now offer them in two sizes (16 x 20, which can also be printed as 8 x 10's & 8.5 x 11) for $5 on my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/791579557/count-your-blessings-4-wall-art?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=count+your+blessings+printable&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&organic_search_click=1" target="_blank">Etsy store</a>.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Now Looking for Requests</h3>
<div>
So do you have a favorite hymn, lyric, verse, etc. that you would like to see made into a downloadable printable? I would like to have a variety to offer for sale on my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MimiberryCreations?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=791579557" target="_blank">Etsy store</a> and if you comment below with your suggestion, if I end up choosing yours I will let you have it for <b>FREE</b>. So please comment below with your suggestions, and I will choose my favorites to create and sell, and will let you have it for free if I choose yours. Thank you for your help and support!!</div>
<br />Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-52328673978902020362020-01-21T11:34:00.000-08:002020-01-21T11:34:41.381-08:00Restore your Wood Furniture in 15 Minutes and for only $15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I feel like I am copying Geico's ad campaign by using the 15 minutes slogan, but these products are so amazing, so easy, and so affordable, that I <i>have</i> to share them with all of you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8t1fJsBJ0PEqFtXc-1byD9XmsgN1yvD8K-M4bETUIneTHtmE2kVF_t1VT9b0J58N8q-djKPsP5uEUdmM1gLiKiIpZGUH_yGjYQxAer7XOvvYRYXamq40gFmDfPiRirNV_3DomXT10Ss/s1600/RestorAFinishPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8t1fJsBJ0PEqFtXc-1byD9XmsgN1yvD8K-M4bETUIneTHtmE2kVF_t1VT9b0J58N8q-djKPsP5uEUdmM1gLiKiIpZGUH_yGjYQxAer7XOvvYRYXamq40gFmDfPiRirNV_3DomXT10Ss/s640/RestorAFinishPin.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Most DIY products and projects, require a learning curve, lots of time, and more money than you anticipate; but these two products continue to amaze me because they truly are fast, easy and affordable. For around $15, you can get both of these products, and a little goes a long way! I have done a few furniture pieces now using <a href="https://www.howardproducts.com/products/" target="_blank">Howard's</a> Restor-A-Finish and Feed-N-Wax, and I have used only a small fraction of each. Amazon, Lowe's and other major retailers sell them each for about $7-15, depending on the size you get.<br />
<br />
Restore-A-Finish comes in 9 colors, but is so versatile that I have read many product reviews that say you don't have to buy one that is the exact match to what you are needing, just a close approximation. For this dresser I was debating between Dark Oak and Walnut, but because of the grain matching the Dark Oak example the best, I bought that color.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLhMA1t3uINjvsiUsL6B7REKjhjA-HuJU3f9OAzqn38nM-CAHvz3ApX_NYN3li8pgJmvShYqQTacyt9MkO1fx2KZCybRF_Vg741qM4i3Pb98PTBpApnT00EW3w9AWQqELzfzCw6-wc24/s1600/Colors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="688" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLhMA1t3uINjvsiUsL6B7REKjhjA-HuJU3f9OAzqn38nM-CAHvz3ApX_NYN3li8pgJmvShYqQTacyt9MkO1fx2KZCybRF_Vg741qM4i3Pb98PTBpApnT00EW3w9AWQqELzfzCw6-wc24/s640/Colors.jpg" width="274" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of howardproducts.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I got this dresser for free, I wasn't thrilled that the top of it had seen better days. However, because it was solid wood, the drawers were roomier than what my boys had in their room already, and it was built well, I decided to see what I could do to refresh it. Since I would prefer a different stain color, I debated about re-staining it, or painting it; however, due to the cold weather, I didn't really want to deal with paint or stain not working well, nor did I want to work in a cold garage. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I then remembered hearing about Restor-A-Finish, and loving the Feed-N-Wax that I had used on this Mid Century dresser. I had found the dresser on Craigslist for $20 almost a year prior, but was able to sell for $550 after spending less than $8 and less than an hour wiping on and off the wax:<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Prior Project using only Howard Feed-N-Wax</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Before:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44zGa_f2_WEOqYerMhbCzo0eqAIu6lT6ZzxuYYoNS2ZMQxGDADMHv92aHwoKeiS5eBaxy55wDlj6tx_7mgTxSAZGdFvgnCnRJOYqR5uQgVkGW-6WRd4w2LFcPKd5mb43j0TuQ8oHjgs0/s1600/IMG_20190523_133719_086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44zGa_f2_WEOqYerMhbCzo0eqAIu6lT6ZzxuYYoNS2ZMQxGDADMHv92aHwoKeiS5eBaxy55wDlj6tx_7mgTxSAZGdFvgnCnRJOYqR5uQgVkGW-6WRd4w2LFcPKd5mb43j0TuQ8oHjgs0/s400/IMG_20190523_133719_086.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZxf76oOfDn6Oj5x7sz2hctR4oRGttFJhW0rtf-_Yu6Xjg933sAeR0dpMtElVP8V2EQDh-9dFM9BTDoIsWKp03XD8bnHSiPvhRr5VxdGyl0txCioGsqYc4LP35-Axvk-bwu45D8g6brw/s1600/IMG_20190523_133719_087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZxf76oOfDn6Oj5x7sz2hctR4oRGttFJhW0rtf-_Yu6Xjg933sAeR0dpMtElVP8V2EQDh-9dFM9BTDoIsWKp03XD8bnHSiPvhRr5VxdGyl0txCioGsqYc4LP35-Axvk-bwu45D8g6brw/s400/IMG_20190523_133719_087.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXQOgZ8KC3ExHGPdOM07VNw5tvb1DsPcq_22shhDrEqQZFfjbhtr5xyug3-eYoMGTI6M1s6R6DDWX-uZ7BHoJIv6jSGl4hhlaeNFXQeSiMmyUADZXNeMcN_Zf_dHFocdjHjkm9BcMv-Q/s1600/IMG_0094+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXQOgZ8KC3ExHGPdOM07VNw5tvb1DsPcq_22shhDrEqQZFfjbhtr5xyug3-eYoMGTI6M1s6R6DDWX-uZ7BHoJIv6jSGl4hhlaeNFXQeSiMmyUADZXNeMcN_Zf_dHFocdjHjkm9BcMv-Q/s400/IMG_0094+%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V6__J7Ci6DaZsVy_a8nmf1NQJrmXS9w2OYzRQCHEip1zhIUJAL_alYQEVEMeykdo22f1pavuOXi68XrsaletCeDpPWkw2qk9h8JwFe_TpFEVu6rE63HcN7XtNJjKNOGfF-_ogvaqOeE/s1600/IMG_0136+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1100" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V6__J7Ci6DaZsVy_a8nmf1NQJrmXS9w2OYzRQCHEip1zhIUJAL_alYQEVEMeykdo22f1pavuOXi68XrsaletCeDpPWkw2qk9h8JwFe_TpFEVu6rE63HcN7XtNJjKNOGfF-_ogvaqOeE/s640/IMG_0136+%25282%2529.JPG" width="440" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Using just the Feed-N-Wax, the color and the suppleness of the wood were restored--I was amazed. Here was a piece that was in need of nourishment as it was probably 50-60 years old. After just rubbing in the wax, and then wiping off the excess, it not only smelled good (like oranges), it felt good and it looked good. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So when I got this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH88hB0ITWnL7LQP9Hs830svmWAZXoRx4TrqcsnZcFBnwgPihIua_f7b36tIAhgV9BnEv_BwEIv0Q24lSxv-5hWKIYa5YGwdgvF3EABLHgiqdK9DNkq3D8A1Tsqa77tsYeBcpaP20Am54/s1600/IMG_20191222_085819746_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="1600" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH88hB0ITWnL7LQP9Hs830svmWAZXoRx4TrqcsnZcFBnwgPihIua_f7b36tIAhgV9BnEv_BwEIv0Q24lSxv-5hWKIYa5YGwdgvF3EABLHgiqdK9DNkq3D8A1Tsqa77tsYeBcpaP20Am54/s640/IMG_20191222_085819746_HDR.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I was excited to try Restor-A-Finish, to help restore a very patchy surface. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For around $8, I ordered a can off of Amazon, and had it in my hands two days later (Amazon, I love you). I followed the directions on the can, used an old rag, and wiped it on. After a few minutes, I wiped off the excess. After just one application, it looked sooooo much better. Since it was so fast and easy, (like you really could do a kamikaze job of wiping it on and off and it would still look good,) I decided to apply it one more time within just a few minutes. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After 30+ minutes of letting it sit, I then applied a coat of Feed-N-Wax. I let it stand about 20+ minutes and then wiped off the excess. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That was it. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I then had a "new" dresser for my boys' room:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzo4R8AJWbv7bDRfwl_6SjIlc_yJpWD9osuxI6uOt-oEIe_BkfXZPSjhVgyScziZDT9rFw7adjVwHf_M3qH_4xQXl5OAdmGcFQddaYBioqcJixhrdVRgmMptB7214tyn1ADt1RI8u-V6w/s1600/BoysDresser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1278" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzo4R8AJWbv7bDRfwl_6SjIlc_yJpWD9osuxI6uOt-oEIe_BkfXZPSjhVgyScziZDT9rFw7adjVwHf_M3qH_4xQXl5OAdmGcFQddaYBioqcJixhrdVRgmMptB7214tyn1ADt1RI8u-V6w/s640/BoysDresser.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You don't have to sand it. You don't have to strip it. You just get to restore it, and you can do so for around $15 and in less than 15 minutes (of your total effort).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Check out the many other satisfied <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Howard-RF1008-Restor-A-Finish-8-Ounce-Neutral/dp/B003DNRH1Q/ref=sxin_1_ac_d_pm?ac_md=1-0-VW5kZXIgJDEz-ac_d_pm&cv_ct_cx=restorafinish&keywords=restorafinish&pd_rd_i=B003DNRH1Q&pd_rd_r=ebbf4a50-6b10-4a56-941a-5c4d766af89c&pd_rd_w=bxTpo&pd_rd_wg=NJQZs&pf_rd_p=b8b03b37-bd30-4468-adff-11c42ccb6582&pf_rd_r=RY6R491QPP1XWES67RVD&qid=1579631068&sr=1-1-22d05c05-1231-4126-b7c4-3e7a9c0027d0&th=1" target="_blank">customer reviews</a> and before and after pictures on Amazon, plus see the available colors and prices that Amazon sells it for.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So if you have a wooden piece of furniture that is worn out, dried out, has heat rings, water marks, fading from the sun, etc., you really should try these products from Howard. I am not sponsored to say these things, just wanted to pass on some great products that will make you do a happy dance.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxrZJROiytg7gptCiA1c2JihUNHmukaG60LBOwMb1B_ygszm-yvtqZHsqZCXaOEF8Fx53vfSsaW2pcm8_DP7zFn2KWT6a9180nV5w9TWm3gw80peQxtM5oo7WkbPDVcRA-kT3bpQhyphenhyphenx0/s1600/Restor+a+Finish.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="653" data-original-width="515" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxrZJROiytg7gptCiA1c2JihUNHmukaG60LBOwMb1B_ygszm-yvtqZHsqZCXaOEF8Fx53vfSsaW2pcm8_DP7zFn2KWT6a9180nV5w9TWm3gw80peQxtM5oo7WkbPDVcRA-kT3bpQhyphenhyphenx0/s320/Restor+a+Finish.PNG" width="252" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div>
</div>
Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-80578492131443060392019-10-01T10:18:00.000-07:002019-10-18T12:03:24.973-07:00Reminder of how Awesome General Finishes Gel Stain truly is<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Hello fellow DIY'ers, I was so excited to be contacted by one of you last night about my one of my post popular posts. Do you remember a couple years ago I shared how we not only removed the popcorn from our ceilings, but we used gel stain to cover the painted wood beams that were in our home?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjug2N2pczS1R0M39Hphi_cXTAJkWNXF0pJkanO-x6NOUYiTlz8tVVWwjX54QmRxubkKHNaIWFsm8wfyIyL_-IcB8zShUALZj_MUyeKw6GZ6MBWeXIma8Nh7ZVKhkDz3_5bEOGO4l09v68/s1600/GelStainBeamPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1264" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjug2N2pczS1R0M39Hphi_cXTAJkWNXF0pJkanO-x6NOUYiTlz8tVVWwjX54QmRxubkKHNaIWFsm8wfyIyL_-IcB8zShUALZj_MUyeKw6GZ6MBWeXIma8Nh7ZVKhkDz3_5bEOGO4l09v68/s640/GelStainBeamPin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Well, I was excited to get the following four pictures, and this message from one of you last night...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">"I recently bought a small place with painted beams (a horrible curdled beige I’d say). Everyone I talked to told me I’d have to sand or strip the paint, or box in the beams with wood, but that was not in my budget or really what I wanted to do at all. After some internet research, I came across your post. HOLY COW. I was so skeptical, but you are absolutely right. General Finishes Gel Stain is the ~$h!t~. No one else can believe it. I used Brown Mahogany and put it on with a 2inch paint brush after a very cursory 180 grit sanding. This is one coat. I don’t even think I need a second." -Melissa</span></blockquote>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsNj0MLp2D_xhe_b_qZ7QwGp6q9IdNiK2MKrPLHDgtG6Gq0O67KPlWtcd3HG_qa94pMJlqOl6FrAS8vU5pfP4kjhJT3UQVgdowP3s8AXHYM20UkVpv14B23PlNqUAe7Z2ESCWBzz3jiag/s1600/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="750" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsNj0MLp2D_xhe_b_qZ7QwGp6q9IdNiK2MKrPLHDgtG6Gq0O67KPlWtcd3HG_qa94pMJlqOl6FrAS8vU5pfP4kjhJT3UQVgdowP3s8AXHYM20UkVpv14B23PlNqUAe7Z2ESCWBzz3jiag/s640/image1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGz3j46VOIq9JS11H5ItqAEtgiQ9-SD80sc-KilAEiMZEGcHE61YSNXBZ2VZDfZuLD_DczgnEQlOzLvfEg9tpwBxO6kiAPlSqrlA_Oc66OPwhloPxMVDJ9K0f-i2CwKOU0ksCCwrrEBFw/s1600/image2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGz3j46VOIq9JS11H5ItqAEtgiQ9-SD80sc-KilAEiMZEGcHE61YSNXBZ2VZDfZuLD_DczgnEQlOzLvfEg9tpwBxO6kiAPlSqrlA_Oc66OPwhloPxMVDJ9K0f-i2CwKOU0ksCCwrrEBFw/s640/image2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Progress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccV78Ra7dcFCpx4dU5avIaMQhkGtICOWNC9d0Z2ACBpWmBz_GujaNadaCbM7VS1ChTIhmxQZ-aZdf04yS5svyDiFEWePxQZPCHJDCnL9JIxaUg0n0ddYyinbUVoElbXKzPTBRTrPrxaU/s1600/image4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccV78Ra7dcFCpx4dU5avIaMQhkGtICOWNC9d0Z2ACBpWmBz_GujaNadaCbM7VS1ChTIhmxQZ-aZdf04yS5svyDiFEWePxQZPCHJDCnL9JIxaUg0n0ddYyinbUVoElbXKzPTBRTrPrxaU/s640/image4.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">In Progress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNlcsa_BLCG8l-csaP2fulHTftZNMbp9uyAk4skB7Qat-16FgTptPSWCaerGn7slhOCqwirwklR8uVIjoqfQxsdUWTuDJFd6BAfl8p6Iwh_Sa7i4AsJwxIKWEwIIpI80SMYZ7L09nsbA/s1600/image3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNlcsa_BLCG8l-csaP2fulHTftZNMbp9uyAk4skB7Qat-16FgTptPSWCaerGn7slhOCqwirwklR8uVIjoqfQxsdUWTuDJFd6BAfl8p6Iwh_Sa7i4AsJwxIKWEwIIpI80SMYZ7L09nsbA/s640/image3.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Progress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9i-kmTIE6nH0UgEtpLg8y3GaiyDOJz9g2lAY0bi74KY0iJopizDRbrfxhKEiNKSylMTmw7CoPTw4g-oiCd3Q8lG1zOaA8u9Q2K5SEK_AQCRDlBLlw9VIW6R74S8c5MTiij6ZM6pNQRSY/s1600/image2+%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9i-kmTIE6nH0UgEtpLg8y3GaiyDOJz9g2lAY0bi74KY0iJopizDRbrfxhKEiNKSylMTmw7CoPTw4g-oiCd3Q8lG1zOaA8u9Q2K5SEK_AQCRDlBLlw9VIW6R74S8c5MTiij6ZM6pNQRSY/s640/image2+%25281%2529.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I love that she used the Brown Mahogany color, as I had used Java and it is nice to see that there is another color that looks great on these painted beams. And I have to agree with Melissa, General Finishes Gel Stain is the bomb. It has yet to disappoint me, and proves to be amazingly versatile.<br />
<br />
So what have you transformed with this amazing product? Have you re-rustified your painted wood beams? Or anything else that is unique? Please email me your success pictures so I can share with all of our fellow DIYers. I love Before and After pictures about as much as I like GF Gel Stain ;).Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-34833477806366984382019-03-15T16:20:00.000-07:002019-03-15T16:20:20.719-07:00Finding FocusDo any of you ever feel like life and everything in it gets blurry? Filled up with so much <i>stuff</i> that you want to bring everything into focus, but don't know what to focus on? I want to share some insights I have been thinking on lately in case they might help one of you.<br />
<br />
I started this blog to empower others to create. I ran into people that expressed interest in knowing how to <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2014/06/drab-to-fab-piano-transformation-using.html" target="_blank">redo their piano</a> like I did, but were too afraid to try, so I wrote up my first how-to post. Since then, many have shared their before and afters of their pianos, and it fuels me to continue sharing what to do and <i>not</i> to do with all of you, so that you can find happiness in transforming your home and furniture affordably.<br />
<br />
As the years have gone by, I have shared posts on how to <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2015/03/easy-dresser-makeover.html" target="_blank">refinish furniture</a>, <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/02/how-gel-stain-makes-painted-wood-beams.html" target="_blank">stain wood beams</a> that had been painted, or update one's home on a budget such as <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/10/painting-oak-cabinets-everything-you.html" target="_blank">painting kitchen cabinets</a>; but I have also been putting my creative energy into perfecting a drawing of Christ I did years ago, that I made to be personalized.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiCR5uz8CUrsJOmIDvrKuzsWBZLZlgKC2TkTWJKXCBM_Pa4hH6F0MQ3bWlAbnvMQJS2WDC9dcG2fc-CsgJ4oRsIZL501wE0CeZAKMRneqnBs8IuDmbs__W2RbjdDIMbw0BgYfAQg9Spm4/s1600/1st+Chase+Pic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="462" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiCR5uz8CUrsJOmIDvrKuzsWBZLZlgKC2TkTWJKXCBM_Pa4hH6F0MQ3bWlAbnvMQJS2WDC9dcG2fc-CsgJ4oRsIZL501wE0CeZAKMRneqnBs8IuDmbs__W2RbjdDIMbw0BgYfAQg9Spm4/s640/1st+Chase+Pic.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first drawing of Christ that included my oldest son when he was 8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My initial purpose of drawing others with their Savior was to empower them in a more meaningful way than the way I do so with "tips and tricks" postings. But as is often the case, I started to tell myself that the drawing wasn't very good, or that nobody would want to take the time to send me a picture so I could make them a personalized drawing, and so on. In the end I stopped putting much effort into it, and would only do it for those that occasionally asked for it.<br />
<br />
That is until everything got out of focus...<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<h4>
First Step: Declutter</h4>
I find that life is very distracting, and although most of my days are filled with important things that I need to do for my family, my home, or my church, I fill in the open areas with non-important things. When I do this, not only is my calendar filled, but my brain is too, and I am not open to inspiration. Fortunately I have had this realization brought to my attention over and over again the last few months, and have opened my time and my brain to just being, and just thinking. Just being and just thinking is empowering too.<br />
<br />
In the end, I was given thoughts and ideas that encouraged me to move forward and improve parts of my Christ drawing that I never could get quite right years ago.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMLnHqMzUGtgnXp1YwU1rRGkOQcMVtcVhgRxifL7_zg21jKDnSN4y-NvpKqzlw__aMNLMlhbRRPECYsFFE8SdsUgZnDIMze0EOERbFTwM4e62BOWDJTYHIvg8GkMoRJNzDHoHQ4SvJAY/s1600/Lexi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1261" data-original-width="1600" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMLnHqMzUGtgnXp1YwU1rRGkOQcMVtcVhgRxifL7_zg21jKDnSN4y-NvpKqzlw__aMNLMlhbRRPECYsFFE8SdsUgZnDIMze0EOERbFTwM4e62BOWDJTYHIvg8GkMoRJNzDHoHQ4SvJAY/s640/Lexi.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A drawing I did for my niece, with Christ's clothing finally the way that I always envisioned it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfNm2Rn3j71PgySRN0vICIYVGsekR-XRAIQcHH9q5cwgQ0dNrDGk71e6jx8dc-Iky64wIqNOOyt4YjVQxR7tm1Od19aurOhEDvNGEnv0RvAEeFBMpUXYqKRTDbLl7KYv9zgnAGmy6nOM/s1600/GrandadBnA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfNm2Rn3j71PgySRN0vICIYVGsekR-XRAIQcHH9q5cwgQ0dNrDGk71e6jx8dc-Iky64wIqNOOyt4YjVQxR7tm1Od19aurOhEDvNGEnv0RvAEeFBMpUXYqKRTDbLl7KYv9zgnAGmy6nOM/s640/GrandadBnA.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As I pondered how to share what I can do, I had the idea to research how others do it. <br />
The simple idea of sharing the before pictures with the after was what I found would solve this problem.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was also given the idea on how to draw a separate picture of Christ, with Him holding an infant, something I have wanted to do for years for those who have lost their little one, but never knew how. As I made time for quiet moments to allow myself to just think about nothing, I was able to open my mind up to these ideas I never thought would come, and I was able to feel love and support from my father in Heaven. He wants me to use my talent so it can get stronger, as well as bless others, but He couldn't help me know how to get there if my mind was filled with the noise of life.<br />
<br />
God also helped me see that although I have a lot of interests, that some of them are just distractions. For example, every now and then I get obsessed with the idea that I want to write a children's book. Writing a book isn't necessarily a bad idea, but what I have learned about myself is that many things have pointed to the fact that writing is not a talent of mine. God has helped me to realize that I can enjoy other's writing talents when I read. Inspiration doesn't always equate to doing things, sometimes it equates to <i>not</i> doing things.<br />
<br />
I have found that when I de-clutter my home I can find so much peace in the simplicity and the cleanliness; when I de-clutter my life and my mind, I find the same thing happens. And as I get rid of unnecessary things in my home, I end up finding what I truly love and can then enjoy it more. The same thing applies to my life and my mind--cleaning out the junk allows me to find the meaningful things that have been hidden.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Second step: Opportunities</h4>
<div>
I find that when I focus my priorities on listening for what God wants for me, that I not only receive guidance I also receive opportunities. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A friend reached out to me with an idea she had been thinking about for years and wanted to see it put on to paper. She had miscarried a baby after her first son, and found out it was a daughter. She mourned the loss of her baby, but was blessed with another son not long after. She has thought often of this daughter, and looks forward to the day when she will be able to be with her in Heaven. She had completely visualized how she wanted a drawing of her three children to look and asked if I could do it for her. I was excited to try and was so happy that it turned out just as she had imagined.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKabwBWdbxuJ5rR2y3mbjQ8HwgQpDKeoYHONDc8CG3EplyjStspwUSI-0XLz_s3tVHxRSmutCQ-ZyyXu3Fu89zH4fEE6Bj9Rq3N6iC88tOISomITLg2VNYSIySTVGuFRXQZ6OEbw81rE/s1600/PetersonsinWhite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1258" data-original-width="1600" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKabwBWdbxuJ5rR2y3mbjQ8HwgQpDKeoYHONDc8CG3EplyjStspwUSI-0XLz_s3tVHxRSmutCQ-ZyyXu3Fu89zH4fEE6Bj9Rq3N6iC88tOISomITLg2VNYSIySTVGuFRXQZ6OEbw81rE/s320/PetersonsinWhite.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
I was then contacted by a woman who is the head of North Star, a group that "supports Latter-day Saint individuals and families concerned with sexual orientation or gender identity who seek to live in joy and harmony within their covenants, values, and beliefs as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." She asked if I would be willing to donate one of my personalized drawings of Christ for an upcoming conference that 500-600 individuals would be attending. She mentioned that many individuals that are faced with these challenges struggle knowing that God and their Savior love them, and thought that a picture like I offer would be very meaningful. I was grateful she asked and am excited to find out who I will get to do this for. We are all children of God, and He and our older brother, Jesus Christ, want us all to come unto them.<br />
<span id="goog_696425404"></span><span id="goog_696425405"></span><br />
<br />
I find that after we start listening we will receive guidance, little by little, and that guidance often comes opportunity by opportunity.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h4>
Third Step: Keeping things in Balance</h4>
<div>
I don't know about you, but I have a hard time keeping things in balance. I get obsessed over things way too easily. Whether it's a silly new TV show, a new book to read, or a project that I am working on, I spend way too much time and attention on it. Once this happens I often forget about putting my priorities first, and then everything starts to fall apart and I can't do anything right, and the clutter and stress is back in full force.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In order for me to receive the guidance to pursue drawing more as a creative outlet, and sharing it with others, I had to receive the guidance to put God and my family first. After I received that direction and followed it, the idea then came that I could do this. It is an extra. It isn't essential. The first two are essential. If I put this new direction as my primary focus then it won't work. If I keep things in balance, and in their right order, I will be able to push through the many challenges that I will face, I will be able to push through the insecurities and discouragements that will surely come, and I will be able to move forward.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjKFbDPcQ_5mK3ILeu_xeThO9K4RhDAZUnE2akpTs1Jm77-4jLzMFa00y8aUVzFLpg5JpyqHZtoBgMw0N0sKNjDmR42xDRV-WcUOYUsQy5R5j71p1YQ8Xts1o-XUkaE8529ax5FnVTLo/s1600/Family+Cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjKFbDPcQ_5mK3ILeu_xeThO9K4RhDAZUnE2akpTs1Jm77-4jLzMFa00y8aUVzFLpg5JpyqHZtoBgMw0N0sKNjDmR42xDRV-WcUOYUsQy5R5j71p1YQ8Xts1o-XUkaE8529ax5FnVTLo/s640/Family+Cards.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
What this all Means to You</h4>
<div>
I debated about writing this post because it isn't a tutorial about something creative. However, I decided to just in case some of you creative people are experiencing something similar to what I have shared. Maybe you feel like you are needing an answer to something and can't find it. Maybe your life is filled up with the unimportant clutter and your brain feels like it is drowning. Or maybe you are ignoring a true talent/passion of yours because you have told yourself that it isn't very good, or that no one will ever support you in it's pursuit. Or maybe you are pursuing something you're not that great at or don't really enjoy. I hope you can find time to just be and just listen. I hope you can see where your life is out of balance, and put God and your family first. And I hope that you too can find something that when those things are in balance, will allow you to let your creative juices flow, and allow you to strengthen your talent as you share it with others.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope that we can all find the fulfillment that comes when the right things are in focus.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy creating,</div>
Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-10714746853919581052019-01-10T03:30:00.000-08:002019-01-10T03:30:01.908-08:00From $0 to $450 in a Few Days (How a simple coat of paint sold a Mid Century dresser that Goodwill wouldn't take)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sorry for the long title, especially since this is going to be a very short post. But today I am writing about how finding someone's "junk" can sometimes require <i>very</i> little work to find the treasure hidden inside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cS_otThPQTKEhMZLOmthMkSbfUAWvcU4D7KM_wB_KLUIkLOXZvEQwXf8fysga6Nf_Q1RfTJm3_ynmSKomhzOZUYXxDnqou77KNtU6FJvJlnwkFWDm-YiC5ctoI47pyaFkjE3bF6m6Io/s1600/IMG_20180910_130955_848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1253" data-original-width="1600" height="499" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cS_otThPQTKEhMZLOmthMkSbfUAWvcU4D7KM_wB_KLUIkLOXZvEQwXf8fysga6Nf_Q1RfTJm3_ynmSKomhzOZUYXxDnqou77KNtU6FJvJlnwkFWDm-YiC5ctoI47pyaFkjE3bF6m6Io/s640/IMG_20180910_130955_848.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I know in my <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/12/functional-and-beautiful-diy-wood-and.html#more" target="_blank">last post</a> I promised that I would be writing several DIY home makeover posts in a row, but this dresser project got in the way of all of them, so it's post is going to do the same. I had just finished installing the bikes on our new <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/12/functional-and-beautiful-diy-wood-and.html#more" target="_blank">wood bike wall</a> and was getting ready to re-do our garage, when my husband came home from a neighborhood walk. Never are his walks exciting, but he said he found something he thought I would like. The thought of a project interrupting my plans did not excite me, but when he took me to see a mid-century dresser sitting on the side of the road with a FREE sign on it, I was excited. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was in almost impeccable condition, only a few water stains on the top of the dresser. That's it. Dovetailed drawers were in brand new condition, and it didn't even stink or have a speck of a dust! The homeowner came out when he saw us looking at it, and said his neighbor tried giving it to Goodwill who didn't want it!! He said he was trying to help him unload it, and then proceeded to help us load it into our car. It was literally around the corner from our home. (Note: I have found that the best deals are often nearby and convenient if you're just willing to look for them and get them.)</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I wasn't sure what to do, but decided that since the frame of the dresser had the water stains, and didn't appear to be solid wood, I decided to only paint the frame, and keep the beautiful wood grain drawers as is. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All I had to do was:</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. Sand using 220 grit in the direction of the grain, and wipe clean.</h3>
<h3>
2. Prime</h3>
<div>
Because I had a gallon of Zinsser Bullseye primer on hand that was too old and lumpy to put into my paint sprayer, I used a roller and rolled the primer on to the frame of the dresser. When it dried I used a 220 grit sanding sponge to lightly sand off any rough patches.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibp2T1R6evMIxurtAbk4DElinGLidXnRXoBlGRlfkA3logLhUQAXgf6rcJUk0rlAj1IcynN1MpOEGCN29d1wnlSow04e7WY1U6XcbiVbV8NttyK66w_zHEUFcS4Pyo8e9WMvkmLrMDTiE/s1600/IMG_20180911_091329244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibp2T1R6evMIxurtAbk4DElinGLidXnRXoBlGRlfkA3logLhUQAXgf6rcJUk0rlAj1IcynN1MpOEGCN29d1wnlSow04e7WY1U6XcbiVbV8NttyK66w_zHEUFcS4Pyo8e9WMvkmLrMDTiE/s640/IMG_20180911_091329244.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
3. Prep & Paint</h3>
<div>
I had a gallon of SW6258 Tricorn Black paint that I wanted to use in my sprayer, so I cut up some trash bags, used painters tape to close off the areas I didn't want painted, and sprayed using my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wagner-0518080-Control-Sprayer-Capacity/dp/B003PGQI48" target="_blank">Wagner sprayer</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOpVEkLbQI1rcaR6pi_OaJyBNpdm8fTKqX37FOw5b5YKzKIaXL66ZrAVibDX-AaQr3QJdCb6ot-AtAm5XVnmtLAHhET9FvP6TOVcQV3ge7gfAkBy93BxBl6adDd1lJM9HukjnFt3r0pk/s1600/IMG_20180912_143050668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOpVEkLbQI1rcaR6pi_OaJyBNpdm8fTKqX37FOw5b5YKzKIaXL66ZrAVibDX-AaQr3QJdCb6ot-AtAm5XVnmtLAHhET9FvP6TOVcQV3ge7gfAkBy93BxBl6adDd1lJM9HukjnFt3r0pk/s640/IMG_20180912_143050668.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In this picture the paint looks black...like I had hoped...but when it dried it looked...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAHMflO69-O_7ReIukNmorxPrr3N0C0jtrm9Rjjn4Yh66odil_fwi1GEaw2IK6Y-onC6432XKThn0uhYvVJr_WAY3EnBxResNgtozqrym0FgzOkpsKUHKzAv9DN6GSi-oQ3SMedYW9-E/s1600/IMG_20180913_125633717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1046" data-original-width="1600" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAHMflO69-O_7ReIukNmorxPrr3N0C0jtrm9Rjjn4Yh66odil_fwi1GEaw2IK6Y-onC6432XKThn0uhYvVJr_WAY3EnBxResNgtozqrym0FgzOkpsKUHKzAv9DN6GSi-oQ3SMedYW9-E/s640/IMG_20180913_125633717.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
BLUE</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had forgotten that Tricorn black often resembles more of a navy color when dry. I went onto Instagram to ask my followers if they thought the blue looked ok, and they put my mind at ease. Many of them even said they preferred the blue hue.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. Stage & Sell</h3>
<div>
Although I loved this dresser, and even my boys loved this 9 drawer dresser, I knew it was too cool for our decor and would sell well. Hubby and I lugged it inside and upstairs, and I took pictures of all of it's lovely angles. I then posted it on Craigslist and within the week it sold for $450.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcw2r5YfboPYqth48dghos-bKkBr9DPIaNWfgUSqAVXJMSVGqpn2JWy5kaT5k5swTAVafryDMRxEzPWCZMphZSrcdB1egeq8UCeKlNc4nCI81TmwWA189pq7LGWQvgA23Muvpu0c-uptA/s1600/Dresser.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcw2r5YfboPYqth48dghos-bKkBr9DPIaNWfgUSqAVXJMSVGqpn2JWy5kaT5k5swTAVafryDMRxEzPWCZMphZSrcdB1egeq8UCeKlNc4nCI81TmwWA189pq7LGWQvgA23Muvpu0c-uptA/s640/Dresser.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For what didn't cost me a dime in supplies, and only a few hours of work, $450 was an exciting profit. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The moral of the story is: Keep your eyes opened for a piece of furniture that has good bones, and snatch it up. Think of what is good about it, and keep and highlight those aspects, and disguise, change, and improve the bad. Stage it and sell it (or keep it and enjoy it). There's a lot of treasure out there for those willing to find it and improve it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I know many of you have turned trash into treasure. Please comment below what were your awesome finds, and even send pictures. I'd love to share your successes!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy Hunting!</div>
Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-34878010947777069762018-12-13T19:13:00.001-08:002018-12-13T19:16:07.403-08:00A Gift for Someone Else that became a Gift for MeMany of you already know that I am a Christian, and belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Even though my religion is an integral part of my life, it isn't something I write about much. There have been a few posts recently that have offered free printables of <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/04/hall-decor-that-brings-generations.html" target="_blank">The Family Proclamation</a>, <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/10/free-living-christ-large-printable.html" target="_blank">The Living Christ</a>, and <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/03/free-articles-of-faith-large-printable.html" target="_blank">the Articles of Faith</a>, each documents of my faith, but I typically write about how you can give new life to a piece of furniture, or a part of an outdated home.<br />
<br />
However, I have had the opportunity to do several pictures of individuals with their Savior recently, and I have thoroughly enjoyed doing so. One in particular has made an impact on me, and helped me realize that I need to put this opportunity out there more for others to know about.<br />
<br />
I was contacted by an individual who asked me if I could do a picture of her deceased grandfather with Christ, so she could surprise her grandmother on Christmas. I had done this once before for my own grandma when my grandpa passed away. My aunts went through family photos and found the best pictures they could find of his profile, and emailed them to me. It was a challenge, but so rewarding. Knowing this individual needed her grandfather's picture done in time for Christmas added to the pressure, but I felt I had help from the other side, and was able to get it done for her in record time. This is what I shared on Instagram, and wanted to share it with all of you:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJv0Ptzu_-dHcQA_-IDJvVkLvHMWOGrPg2eWSNGhcCxwoCiP_qIpRHfxEm7GDH4zzs6wOE7OWQGse5a7wvpsAgQW88eP28JhesDDvQYjE0gMU0W8gMrO6AOthfv-tqzAKDi7dZNyBX0c/s1600/Instagram+Pic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJv0Ptzu_-dHcQA_-IDJvVkLvHMWOGrPg2eWSNGhcCxwoCiP_qIpRHfxEm7GDH4zzs6wOE7OWQGse5a7wvpsAgQW88eP28JhesDDvQYjE0gMU0W8gMrO6AOthfv-tqzAKDi7dZNyBX0c/s640/Instagram+Pic.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I am grateful she gave me permission to share these pictures and her story with all of you, and am so grateful I had this opportunity to do this for her family. Being able to work so closely with the countenance of someone who has already passed on was a unique, and blessed gift.<br />
<br />
I would love to be able to do a custom work of art (or two) for any of you that would be interested. If you would like to see more of these pictures I have done, click on the <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/p/art.html" target="_blank">Art</a> tab above. Also, on that same page, I have a link to my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/496362568/picture-yourself-or-your-loved-one-with?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=personalized+christ+drawing&ref=sr_gallery-1-1&organic_search_click=1" target="_blank">Etsy listing</a>. Until the end of this year I am only charging $30 for a JPEG file of your custom art that you can then print at any size you'd like, and share as many times as you want with loved ones. At the beginning of January I will be raising the price to $50. Even though I need to raise the cost, I am still trying to keep this personalized gift affordable for all those who want one.<br />
<br />
Thank you always for your encouragement and support along my many creative paths. I wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas!Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-79229711549114118522018-12-12T13:10:00.000-08:002018-12-12T13:10:23.758-08:00Functional and Beautiful DIY Wood and Bike WallThese last few months have been filled with DIY home projects that I am excited to finally start sharing with all of you now that they are finally done. First I am going to share how I transformed a boring, old wall in our home, to an awesomely rustic bike wall on the cheap. This tutorial is also helpful if you have wanted to put up any kind of wood on your wall (shiplap, pallet wood, you name it), because the bikes are a last minute feature that are not necessary.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Pb1uLjdXABOXYzNC6eQI0UjBz74_5Es5lC3q91hVfuraC8buZxK28eCOvbMlJpIXUgfEyw1QQZHKHHtvLsrZYxttmk6CkJ54TpB5cssOUOSCCkbBJoIIa-Q-PqikRY1-iiRMB-mYTIQ/s1600/functional+%2526+beautiful.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Pb1uLjdXABOXYzNC6eQI0UjBz74_5Es5lC3q91hVfuraC8buZxK28eCOvbMlJpIXUgfEyw1QQZHKHHtvLsrZYxttmk6CkJ54TpB5cssOUOSCCkbBJoIIa-Q-PqikRY1-iiRMB-mYTIQ/s640/functional+%2526+beautiful.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<h2>
How to Install Wood on Wall</h2>
<h3>
1. Find & Mark Studs & Remove Baseboards & Electrical Plates, etc.</h3>
<div>
Using a stud finder, find where your studs are and mark them on the wall. (You can barely see the two dot markings on my wall below, which I then used a ruler and drew lines from floor to ceiling.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also remove anything attached to the wall. I used a pry bar to gently remove the baseboard, and then a screwdriver for the electrical outlet (not shown in picture).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqmVL1deigqLEQ2W-R9dYWCve0hWXT88I-Tnea6Hj_EpUFNcllneftZAwQ5Nnzc_LZsSOTTebaSd7PFSktnwk2AYvL3AgxM47uDOGfM1nVU79ok52GiewPueJ3GAB9gl_gQNQ63EsrYY/s1600/Wood+wall+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqmVL1deigqLEQ2W-R9dYWCve0hWXT88I-Tnea6Hj_EpUFNcllneftZAwQ5Nnzc_LZsSOTTebaSd7PFSktnwk2AYvL3AgxM47uDOGfM1nVU79ok52GiewPueJ3GAB9gl_gQNQ63EsrYY/s640/Wood+wall+before.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. Get Wood Ready for Hanging</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOKsG3QEhnSuq8ddkQO3zqcb7Ta0PHkYUuMqEGc5UH4jZA0LAk_clUqsj8kUpVCvTy1v6qgH2zR5qE94jnF8pGUh8R3wv3LoJsyRyC6aw1NabPWtZ6QLOQYDZ1tTlZ8J1EmEl3UY4RhI/s1600/2018-09-15_10-35-27_483.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOKsG3QEhnSuq8ddkQO3zqcb7Ta0PHkYUuMqEGc5UH4jZA0LAk_clUqsj8kUpVCvTy1v6qgH2zR5qE94jnF8pGUh8R3wv3LoJsyRyC6aw1NabPWtZ6QLOQYDZ1tTlZ8J1EmEl3UY4RhI/s640/2018-09-15_10-35-27_483.jpeg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This whole project was possible thanks to my husband's college buddy having leftover 100+ yr old hardwood flooring from a lumber mill he used for his pediatric dental office's wall. He had already removed most of the nails that had nailed this pecan, maple, and oak wood flooring down, and so the hardest part had already been done for me. I then went through and chose the straightest, cleanest, least splintery pieces, that had the tongue and grooves on them still, so they would work best on a straight wall. I then cleaned them with a mostly water solution and scrub brush and hose, and laid them out on our driveway to dry in the sun (I did this in August so the Colorado sun had these pieces dry in less than an hour. If you live in a wet, cold, humid environment, you'll want to dry them off as best as you can so the wood doesn't warp or splinter as it dries). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
3. Optional: Map out wood's placement</h3>
<div>
If you are not going with different sized or different colored wood, then this step is not necessary. However, since I liked that some of these pieces had numbers on them, were aged differently, etc., I wanted them placed in a certain way. I measured the wall, where our baseboard heater was, our light switch, and the floor, walls and ceiling, and chalked out the dimensions on our garage floor. I then placed the pieces as best as I could there to get an idea as to where things would go. In the end this all got messed as I started to take them into the room I was installing them in, but it might have saved me some effort.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKh7vGygH87eiO_Ujdq0pSgkIr-1GI8WscgGmbrpaVfh7SHkqylih9o3-kYEV_4N-RoUdyb16U3q8iV8q6h34FT4Qm_1-FnoWypjJJQrA7M9ugxv-gwr8dHa-eH8wdZIvXcbZq1TVIwY/s1600/wood+layout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1458" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKh7vGygH87eiO_Ujdq0pSgkIr-1GI8WscgGmbrpaVfh7SHkqylih9o3-kYEV_4N-RoUdyb16U3q8iV8q6h34FT4Qm_1-FnoWypjJJQrA7M9ugxv-gwr8dHa-eH8wdZIvXcbZq1TVIwY/s640/wood+layout.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3>
4. Hang Wood using 2" Finish Nails</h3>
<div>
Using my nail gun and 2" nails, I started at the bottom, around our baseboard heater, and worked my way up. Ideally you want each of the wood's ends to land on, or close to a stud so that they are firmly hung on the wall. Since I was using hardwood flooring that have grooves that fit into one another, I didn't have to worry about using as many nails to hold each piece to the wall. It is a slow puzzle piece project, but you just have to watch for what colors you want placed where, as well as that the wood's ends are staggered nicely. My miter saw was crucial during this step in cutting the pieces to work with the studs and other pieces' ends.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnuDnKIAXIcHl7hZPFqgPXWSsTGWQwGKRxxrRQPChom4SMBoPWez-6XJUkaOJmrCcNgPVjdK7ZspIaf3doJ4Oo-9oe_xGo1BpeqGHm1bcged9cThaXBohmCkFpC8fVvZ2gBU82JguhGQ/s1600/2018-09-15_10-36-06_677.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnuDnKIAXIcHl7hZPFqgPXWSsTGWQwGKRxxrRQPChom4SMBoPWez-6XJUkaOJmrCcNgPVjdK7ZspIaf3doJ4Oo-9oe_xGo1BpeqGHm1bcged9cThaXBohmCkFpC8fVvZ2gBU82JguhGQ/s640/2018-09-15_10-36-06_677.jpeg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5. Add Electrical plates and Trim</h3>
<div>
Because the wood added depth to the wall, my electrical outlet needed depth added to it. There are a couple products out there to help with this, but I used <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/Ideal-Spacer-Shims-Standard-Package-5-Packs-of-5-772453/203734816?cm_mmc=Shopping%7CG%7CBase%7CD27E%7C27-11_TOOLS_%26_ACCESSORIES%7CNA%7CPLA%7c71700000034238984%7c58700003943782712%7c92700031954542185&gclid=Cj0KCQiAgMPgBRDDARIsAOh3uyJJb2hF55jazQ5UpcUdo7-khFVXO8-4TLcQMUQf-3OdAeXlDfbZVV0aAgW-EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Ideal Spacer Shims</a> from Home Depot. If you go to the store, you can buy them in a small package for a few dollars, and you just pull off the amount you need, fold them back onto themselves (like a Jacob's ladder) to the depth you need for the screw to go into the faceplate and into the electrical box. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For the trim you can see a small, dark blue line framing the walls and floor. I used my table saw to cut wood I had on hand to the size I wanted, sanded it, and then painted it the navy color I had painted cabinets in that same room. I then used my nail gun to frame the wall.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h2>
How to Install Bike Rack(s)</h2>
<div>
I searched all over for bike hanging solutions, and didn't like 99% of them due to their complexity or lack of affordability. I then found some on Amazon that had a good amount of reviews, but since I had a Walmart gift card, I bought <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/2pcs-Bicycle-Mountain-Bike-Storage-Wall-Mounted-Rack-Stand-Hook-Hanger-Garage-Storage-Steel-Holder-Load-Capacity-Up-To-30kg/354023284" target="_blank">similar ones on Walmart</a> for around the same price (around $20-25 for a pack of two). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuQFdmp_gplb7d_ln2HbZAskALF67WXBqeJ8Fm0Xl1CqrJ3EvdEeuIVVk_AOueJMiHMpWziAMdzuyxsnEJnSFCmFoB_lcRAJVDPGzXPRustIMQduy1YLvkU3wf7d-ntMfioFEviizULk/s1600/Bike+rack+product.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuQFdmp_gplb7d_ln2HbZAskALF67WXBqeJ8Fm0Xl1CqrJ3EvdEeuIVVk_AOueJMiHMpWziAMdzuyxsnEJnSFCmFoB_lcRAJVDPGzXPRustIMQduy1YLvkU3wf7d-ntMfioFEviizULk/s320/Bike+rack+product.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My road bike is super light, so I wasn't worried about it being too heavy for the wall, and it just so happened it was being installed where a stud was; however, my husband's mountain bike, although it is made of carbon fiber, is heavy, and unfortunately there wasn't a stud where we needed his bike to go. Even though the racks said they could hold 66 lbs, we were doubtful the screws were that strong. We bought some drywall screws and anchors and voila, super sturdy. We hung up his bike so that it wasn't resting on the floor, (to keep it out of the way from sweeping/mopping, etc,) and have taken it down, and put it back up many times---that rack ain't goin' nowhere! Also, even though my bike's rack was installed into a stud, we followed other reviewers advice on similar products, and got longer/stronger screws. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's been a few months now and these racks are acting good as new---they're strong and simple.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwmZtUUghC4bwiy3hgcbA4h2p8FidOEE9nue3yi-jFY9kplsY8v1YxODwD2tjfphq4jbNPddTONPTwCs8jOuuragvxhvGgbLND96nWiu0q2qI2pYK-KPmAekapAeIPvtSUilEd9vMh4Y/s1600/Bike+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="1600" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwmZtUUghC4bwiy3hgcbA4h2p8FidOEE9nue3yi-jFY9kplsY8v1YxODwD2tjfphq4jbNPddTONPTwCs8jOuuragvxhvGgbLND96nWiu0q2qI2pYK-KPmAekapAeIPvtSUilEd9vMh4Y/s640/Bike+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
And there you have it, a simple, affordable, and beautiful wall that makes a lovely, rustic statement, and at the same time keeps your bikes out of the way and ready to go when you are.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lhlp7G_d8huQyq8wOslm3z5TKydAldzRuj_U6joPh30bLyz4745QLehyS3K19Ct9YzvVjaFlJwBqk204FS4hr9-3AnCcqg7HK3tgReYiOoSmiV_UyEZSaARHQg5QjLPZenIfXO7wU54/s1600/Bike+Pin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lhlp7G_d8huQyq8wOslm3z5TKydAldzRuj_U6joPh30bLyz4745QLehyS3K19Ct9YzvVjaFlJwBqk204FS4hr9-3AnCcqg7HK3tgReYiOoSmiV_UyEZSaARHQg5QjLPZenIfXO7wU54/s640/Bike+Pin.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And if you have leftover wood, you can use it to make a simple picture frame using a miter saw and your trusty nail gun:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkPZlmhcsEK_60AlLKB8HmthzORHXMV9srwJJVIVARxI8RBTFSesXe4bQJy18_o8X2UtuzVEphWOHxLux1I79bamvQH97-BTg_XN4S01JlCVRjNLyk89U-ZJoEgTHm-Uf8eAtT2S9Ov0/s1600/Gun+Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkPZlmhcsEK_60AlLKB8HmthzORHXMV9srwJJVIVARxI8RBTFSesXe4bQJy18_o8X2UtuzVEphWOHxLux1I79bamvQH97-BTg_XN4S01JlCVRjNLyk89U-ZJoEgTHm-Uf8eAtT2S9Ov0/s640/Gun+Pic.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Next thing to add to this room is a gun safe so that this Glock patent art makes sense being hung in a room with bikes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Are you looking for a place to store your bikes out of the way? Or is there a wall that would look great covered in wood? I'd love to hear your ideas and what you do to beautify your space and solve your storage problems!</div>
Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-69057314585421879392018-10-01T07:28:00.004-07:002020-11-04T11:06:04.148-08:00Three FREE Large Printables<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To get your free printable downloads of The Family: A Proclamation to the World, The Living Christ, The Testimony of the Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and The Articles of Faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, please see links below:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiboYQOB6BMt7JyNpoStBWnDdH7SHdk2dmVFmfMjZQ8tYnf2AdCRGtlrDPgQ9RsTeFvNFTHbsZShGqHp2dPMiN-zUCXOsgl9bc71C7ZN5O0PwAQ94kMyexWp1J5-VwAG_BvB1fpD7_GLw/s1600/TrioPin.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiboYQOB6BMt7JyNpoStBWnDdH7SHdk2dmVFmfMjZQ8tYnf2AdCRGtlrDPgQ9RsTeFvNFTHbsZShGqHp2dPMiN-zUCXOsgl9bc71C7ZN5O0PwAQ94kMyexWp1J5-VwAG_BvB1fpD7_GLw/s640/TrioPin.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First off I want to mention that there are several out there who have created far more beautiful, and creative renditions of these inspired documents, that can be purchased on Etsy.com as well as other websites.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
However, if you are like me and are all about DIY and saving a dime or two, here are the links to each of the three Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints documents:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/04/hall-decor-that-brings-generations.html" target="_blank">The Family: A Proclamation to the World</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/10/free-living-christ-large-printable.html" target="_blank">The Living Christ, The Testimony of the Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/03/free-articles-of-faith-large-printable.html" target="_blank">The Articles of Faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Update 4/15/20: <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2020/04/free-restoration-proclamation-printable.html">The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And for those of you who have never read these before, please take a moment to read them to learn what "Mormons" truly believe. I hope that as you do, you will feel peace that comes from a loving Father in Heaven, who knows you, loves you, and wants you to return to live with Him again after this Earthly existence. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For more information on what Mormons, or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes, visit <a href="http://mormon.org/">mormon.org</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-18098865394838143832018-10-01T07:13:00.004-07:002021-12-16T06:29:21.576-08:00FREE The Living Christ Large Printable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
You asked and now it's here--The Living Christ free printable! Ever since I first offered <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/04/hall-decor-that-brings-generations.html">The Family Proclamation</a> printable back in April of 2017, many of you have requested that I also offer the Living Christ printable. To keep you all anxiously waiting, though I made the <a href="https://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/03/free-articles-of-faith-large-printable.html" target="_blank">Articles of Faith printable</a> next, and now finally have the Living Christ printable available for free. It is made to be printed as 24"x 30" to match the others of the trio but can be scaled down to print any size you need. Keep reading to get your free printable download of the Living Christ.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcKFad_hrBZS0Zl8m9oQOh5uvxvoEDLT1tG73gEjPcO4eFRQHb15X-6dEO_LWxHINkCNtiw9yJhlX7QvEW7dcu9WzgKGaDUzraS3ivBbc5RbQmWF8FDT54FP7GYyFFJ0VHabYFN-ucGyw/s1600/Living+Christ+Pin.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcKFad_hrBZS0Zl8m9oQOh5uvxvoEDLT1tG73gEjPcO4eFRQHb15X-6dEO_LWxHINkCNtiw9yJhlX7QvEW7dcu9WzgKGaDUzraS3ivBbc5RbQmWF8FDT54FP7GYyFFJ0VHabYFN-ucGyw/s640/Living+Christ+Pin.jpg" width="426" /></a>]</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Although I only have the large printable of the Family Proclamation in my home, many of you fellow members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wanted to have all three to frame and put up in your homes. Because I love playing with fonts, and playing around in Photoshop, making these three printables was a lot of fun for me. I know many out there sell them and I hate to take away from their opportunities, but since our family lives on a tight budget, I wanted to offer these for free for anyone else who would like to have them in their home to remind themselves and their families what is most important in life, and what will create lasting peace and happiness.<br />
<br />
As mentioned in my prior posts that offer the <a href="https://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/04/hall-decor-that-brings-generations.html" target="_blank">Family Proclamation</a> and <a href="https://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2018/03/free-articles-of-faith-large-printable.html" target="_blank">Articles of Faith</a>, these printables can be downloaded to your computer as a JPEG or PDF, and then uploaded to either Staples, OfficeMax or any other company that prints 24"x 30" (blueprints). Typically these large prints will cost $2-4, and can be framed in a poster frame, etc.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oS8elCm6fo2DdppXZr6Z3Lf0OoMNZvjU/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a> to be taken to the PDF if the JPEG file below doesn't work well for you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInrZoAWGaaaeXDOgg_ZefZBEcDWfCXJcsZBm8xOKsWUJFTeh3Xd57FYJtV-OILl_kDfGev8h3M1FlLomosBfKaorFCx5EWvpOOC3oE_vwOvMI4Z4nIh-RPpXlxrQlP4H45qe3I8xO4zI/s1600/The+Living+Christ.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1219" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInrZoAWGaaaeXDOgg_ZefZBEcDWfCXJcsZBm8xOKsWUJFTeh3Xd57FYJtV-OILl_kDfGev8h3M1FlLomosBfKaorFCx5EWvpOOC3oE_vwOvMI4Z4nIh-RPpXlxrQlP4H45qe3I8xO4zI/s640/The+Living+Christ.jpg" width="486" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you are not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and want to know more about what me and my family believe, please take a moment to visit <a href="http://mormon.org/">mormon.org</a> where you can learn about what almost 15 million worldwide members believe. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thank you for your continued support, and hope that you enjoy this third freebie.</div>
Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-4142572525401860302018-08-21T08:04:00.000-07:002018-09-07T18:27:27.254-07:00Fun and Free Website that Allows You to Change your Home's ExteriorDo you try and imagine what your house would look like in a different color? Or switching your siding, or roof, or even windows? Do you like to have creative control, and see your ideas turn into something you can actually see? Maybe you need to replace your home's siding, and want to see the options as they will actually look on your home. Who knew that we could do any of these things FOR FREE on an easy to use website, that is super fun to play around with. Let me tell you more about <a href="https://dreamdesigner.renoworks.com/">Dream Designer</a>, a company I came across online the other day, since more people deserve to know they can now have this creative power...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHWNilBPvAr-ai3tCG36f-i-Xe9nH9a_dTg8p_CaggXfXti2-OKXYxWiK8VmwjbqIlnGQ5zdjTKY3AMsNDmpXNqFVbe8D5CPo-qcypdTFJG_x7l_3x21POfMfrcImVCUBcqmI3z8vZwBg/s1600/House+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="945" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHWNilBPvAr-ai3tCG36f-i-Xe9nH9a_dTg8p_CaggXfXti2-OKXYxWiK8VmwjbqIlnGQ5zdjTKY3AMsNDmpXNqFVbe8D5CPo-qcypdTFJG_x7l_3x21POfMfrcImVCUBcqmI3z8vZwBg/s640/House+Pin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: left;">
Ever since we moved in I have hated our home's lack of curb appeal and color. Unfortunately no one on Pinterest had ever shown me different options for our home 😊, so I had no vision of what our home's potential could be.<br />
<br />
So you can all see what I mean, here is what our house looks like now:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0aFK0-LfqvuwVY2Nm9iGGGrhPf1xcaGphxr58gcK8ndQvopTIXMF6AwYLskPz9M2MjzVoa196icXJiHB9iDV0A6rFkhdiBy3H6GeMRwYwD9MUmun14Vh3sfsBhkW1JceIBWLYT9tyfbs/s1600/House+8-18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0aFK0-LfqvuwVY2Nm9iGGGrhPf1xcaGphxr58gcK8ndQvopTIXMF6AwYLskPz9M2MjzVoa196icXJiHB9iDV0A6rFkhdiBy3H6GeMRwYwD9MUmun14Vh3sfsBhkW1JceIBWLYT9tyfbs/s640/House+8-18.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
The only thing we have done to the exterior of our home since we bought it late 2016, has been to paint the front door to match the trim, and get the grass greener.<br />
<br />
Since we are NOT in the position to pay for all new windows and siding, I don't see the point in painting the home yet either. However, even though we aren't ready to change our home's exterior, I want to be able to see what our home <i>can</i> look like, so that I can visualize our home's future potential.<br />
<br />
When I came across <a href="https://dreamdesigner.renoworks.com/#">Dream Designer</a>, they said I could upload my home's picture for free, and they would have someone "map it out" so I could design it. Seriously?! It sounded too good to be true. (I came across another site that would do it for $15, but free is much better in my mind). I honestly figured that after I uploaded my picture that I would never hear from the company again, or would get an email that for $XX.XX I could get my picture mapped for designing. However, less than a week after uploading my home's picture, I received an email that it was ready for designing. Wow, no tricks!<br />
<br />
I played around with updating our home's exterior for an hour last night, and went through every thing I could see on the site, and nowhere was I asked to pay a fee. The program gave me so many design options, and was a very intuitive, professional website. Thank you <a href="https://dreamdesigner.renoworks.com/">Dream Designer </a>for allowing me to see my home's possibilities!<br />
<br />
Here are a few that I came up with last night:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeAdxh3EeS5GbWWZHtVNIQEo0yyIXIk3ZhipTjzyfwJ9FGq-vrL3JzxsPysQiJCh9LDOG_itxQQT3qUPxG-X0T_Pm1Se9o_1o7ys_8av8ohWnpzwqPi3HRHVj71ao4JEpcgRvJbJDG6U/s1600/HouseOptions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1029" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeAdxh3EeS5GbWWZHtVNIQEo0yyIXIk3ZhipTjzyfwJ9FGq-vrL3JzxsPysQiJCh9LDOG_itxQQT3qUPxG-X0T_Pm1Se9o_1o7ys_8av8ohWnpzwqPi3HRHVj71ao4JEpcgRvJbJDG6U/s640/HouseOptions.jpg" width="411" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Here's What You Can Do</h3>
If you are designing your dream home, you can play around with some of their ideas:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6Iz613g7w9Cv6DhDxAq54RN1kUqlkx1-y64nJMiHig6Vv6RLkZMN8-qMY63IxM__pC1bmZ3bDSA0QA47pDeeuTAiit3kreywL17y0c_CZgY71am_ELl8KmoBFhasmbhwwsCkotTHhXY/s1600/Pick+a+Home.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="712" data-original-width="1600" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6Iz613g7w9Cv6DhDxAq54RN1kUqlkx1-y64nJMiHig6Vv6RLkZMN8-qMY63IxM__pC1bmZ3bDSA0QA47pDeeuTAiit3kreywL17y0c_CZgY71am_ELl8KmoBFhasmbhwwsCkotTHhXY/s640/Pick+a+Home.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Or if you want to see <i>your</i> home's possibilities, you can upload your home's photo:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZgMT9d6udZzgwgfn_J4LmQ2pN8zk1nFDzawJmsTh7Y5G6zzl3OU-sU3cHuxyLV7SnwDtya_yHmFI0x6veDXOPxezfL-Qkko2lhKBt2KdvSko4zdfJFhEcNF6aFs_0j4_wNxOWI3TB80/s1600/Upload+Photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="709" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZgMT9d6udZzgwgfn_J4LmQ2pN8zk1nFDzawJmsTh7Y5G6zzl3OU-sU3cHuxyLV7SnwDtya_yHmFI0x6veDXOPxezfL-Qkko2lhKBt2KdvSko4zdfJFhEcNF6aFs_0j4_wNxOWI3TB80/s640/Upload+Photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
It takes only a few minutes, and then you wait a few days while someone itemizes each of your home's exterior features that you are interested in them mapping. I asked them to do all of our home's features (roof, siding, masonry, windows, door, etc), and there was no extra charge.<br />
<br />
Once you get the email that your home is ready for you to design, you log back in and go to "Your Projects." Once you have designed one you like, you can save it, and create different folders for different projects.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD13YedZ9vnkGihzImgsZqZXBxC13vvew53BY4UmsAjDZwipXy9liU2_sRlOkGEtYBBOZy3Bto6NIZ3m-PGzanZvITBQpo3BnQfDkgEfDR0f6Jt4OzCsV9wbfCIoITtSMz0dpZ7MK8DkA/s1600/Designer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD13YedZ9vnkGihzImgsZqZXBxC13vvew53BY4UmsAjDZwipXy9liU2_sRlOkGEtYBBOZy3Bto6NIZ3m-PGzanZvITBQpo3BnQfDkgEfDR0f6Jt4OzCsV9wbfCIoITtSMz0dpZ7MK8DkA/s640/Designer.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCglV923i01ByGhlr5LMs8IWeJ_u63p-xL_mORKkXuc5d5tn_469IkCbx7gbX2pDD6666BmA7T_ORENx4DDOGnlKtOn0iEeFJHcvtS0V8Un4arnLwtNX0Z2O_fx55q8fsGQPBzoofp-w/s1600/Selections.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="1600" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCglV923i01ByGhlr5LMs8IWeJ_u63p-xL_mORKkXuc5d5tn_469IkCbx7gbX2pDD6666BmA7T_ORENx4DDOGnlKtOn0iEeFJHcvtS0V8Un4arnLwtNX0Z2O_fx55q8fsGQPBzoofp-w/s640/Selections.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was so helpful, fun and exciting for me that I had to share this opportunity with all of you. I am not getting paid by Dream Designer to tell you this, and they have no idea I am writing this article. But when you come across something that is free, that lets your creative juices flow, well it's something that needs to be shared.<br />
<br />
So now I need <i>your</i> help...<br />
<h3>
<u>Please Help me by Voting which one is your Favorite</u></h3>
Which exterior below do you like best? If you can comment below with your vote, (or suggestions,) you'd <i>really</i> help me in designing the updating of our home's exterior! Thank you!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Exterior #1 (fewest things changed)</b></u><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwy3yb-nBbzXSSUDxVvtPZiKQnlfv8N6Pqmcv1hVvQjp9gm9gb5hWricEHacxAW6kFx6iUGo706xPlEBoJFI4YdPE-WWjUe-xjw2ETHc2LMyyI5cSw2zm3Jkwr24mSS0HLlRzm3XOkz4/s1600/Idea+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="1600" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwy3yb-nBbzXSSUDxVvtPZiKQnlfv8N6Pqmcv1hVvQjp9gm9gb5hWricEHacxAW6kFx6iUGo706xPlEBoJFI4YdPE-WWjUe-xjw2ETHc2LMyyI5cSw2zm3Jkwr24mSS0HLlRzm3XOkz4/s640/Idea+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I kept this picture as a screenshot so you can see how the site looks when you are designing your own home.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Exterior #2</u></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZF_rAMhdMNX40rjZWtJgQNy2q3t3T0GFzZ6z3QC4H4a-xd9iidMcxqpULUsge7Q15ZY3Y3kGTa_B4078OfrtjWoDS_U-9_rYxxAvKhqUFwjpNWLqwcr8i9-3hqIveFpH5ee_d5HwYhDM/s1600/Idea1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZF_rAMhdMNX40rjZWtJgQNy2q3t3T0GFzZ6z3QC4H4a-xd9iidMcxqpULUsge7Q15ZY3Y3kGTa_B4078OfrtjWoDS_U-9_rYxxAvKhqUFwjpNWLqwcr8i9-3hqIveFpH5ee_d5HwYhDM/s640/Idea1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><u>Exterior #3</u></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfJEo4GmdJK5DRYl18mPvt2cvFFy_XJz77FJp15zi86KbUopohJlmFcVMmsLrBnBOnit4cgv0oZ93GsnUIf9dSgZzubtiPIcifYBJQhqD1_O47JHryyr_VkxiTtukQXzN5gKfoR7CBq0A/s1600/Idea2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="1600" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfJEo4GmdJK5DRYl18mPvt2cvFFy_XJz77FJp15zi86KbUopohJlmFcVMmsLrBnBOnit4cgv0oZ93GsnUIf9dSgZzubtiPIcifYBJQhqD1_O47JHryyr_VkxiTtukQXzN5gKfoR7CBq0A/s640/Idea2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Thank you for giving me your feedback!<br />
<br />
I hope you have a lot of fun playing around with your home's look, and I'd love to hear how it goes!Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-39256233173977274612018-06-19T08:30:00.000-07:002018-06-19T08:30:16.424-07:00Share Your Before & Afters<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
The #1 reason I started this blog was to share with others that you don't have to be creative or have artistic skills to create amazing things for your home. After gaining encouragement from other's how-to's or seeing cool things on Pinterest, I have tackled each of the projects that are showcased on here. What gives me great joy is hearing that you have gained encouragement from a tutorial on this site and tried and succeeded as well! So it is:</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfkhSZXbCS3iMhVRZl-14FM43KP7ZZZHKnplwk1IIO9OJ3eQ5A2qIkZ7WlbfcCm1pcCghiq_6ParVdO4oGg3xiC0z7zKBwmoRtkcCM73n5ddIp0wZ0-Z76s7tGDdpEVepB5OvkAJzU94/s1600/Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfkhSZXbCS3iMhVRZl-14FM43KP7ZZZHKnplwk1IIO9OJ3eQ5A2qIkZ7WlbfcCm1pcCghiq_6ParVdO4oGg3xiC0z7zKBwmoRtkcCM73n5ddIp0wZ0-Z76s7tGDdpEVepB5OvkAJzU94/s640/Pin.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before & After courtesy of Holly after following "<a href="https://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2014/06/drab-to-fab-piano-transformation-using.html">Drab to Fab Piano Transformation</a>"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Every now and then I get a message from my readers with pictures of their success. After getting their permission, I share their before & afters at the end of that specific tutorial to share with all of you that you too can do it.<br />
<br />
So if you have tackled one of the projects featured on mimiberrycreations, please <a href="mailto:mimi.crisenberry@gmail.com">email</a> me with your before and after pictures so that I can share them and give others the encouragement they need to try too!<br />
<br />
Also, if you ever want to tackle a project, and have additional questions that are not answered in any of the tutorials, please do not hesitate to comment on that post or send me an email.<br />
<br />
Thanks!Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-30567532145650795782018-03-28T13:45:00.000-07:002018-03-28T13:45:18.444-07:00Are you Brave Enough to Pursue Your Idea/Dream?I've been debating about writing this post for quite some time now, and decided that if I share what I've been working on with all of you, I will now be held more accountable to follow through with it. But before I get into what I have debated about sharing, let me ask <i>you</i> something...is there something you have always wanted to do/learn/be, that you talk yourself out of day after day, year after year? What is it? Why do you do keep yourself from doing/learning/being it?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97byHeleH_vGg85PbjygwEsmDzPYwJVa9wAUFP6PTVrQ9dt6hVlCl4as7lEvX0PWf6ymWHodj65Lnq878Nuq5XlUwvvixQGiDFI92K5ZMSnfh0jZ-Vl1xhbZn2UmeFfrf48ORYJ7gCIY/s1600/Write-Your-Book-Today.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97byHeleH_vGg85PbjygwEsmDzPYwJVa9wAUFP6PTVrQ9dt6hVlCl4as7lEvX0PWf6ymWHodj65Lnq878Nuq5XlUwvvixQGiDFI92K5ZMSnfh0jZ-Vl1xhbZn2UmeFfrf48ORYJ7gCIY/s640/Write-Your-Book-Today.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.bubok.com/blog/9-tips-to-write-and-publish-your-book">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
I'd like to venture and guess that you all have <i>something</i> that rattles around in the back of your mind every now and then, that says, "It's time! Pay attention to me! You know you want to!" But as soon as you give that thought your energy, new predator-like thoughts invade that say, "It's not time. You're too busy," or "You have more important things to do," or "Who do you think you are?" And if you're like me, you let those thoughts push back the thoughts that fill you with excitement and hope.<br />
<br />
Why do we do it? Maybe it is because we look around and see so many amazingly talented people that we know could do a better job than we can? Maybe we look around and people have already done it? Maybe it is because we are constantly reminded of our limitations, and focus on those rather than our strengths? Well we need to stop. There is always room for that something that keeps nagging you, begging you, pleading for you to pay attention to it. There is a reason there is that something there in the first place, and it needs your attention and action.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicfJ4JkeM85uQ9r0D3f-OiwqmGjDBg3fuXc21Z6YfTom0V7cBqHQavdZbKtuTyZy-QvQLfV_VWjd-6AljpTpNGyUYey-MOAjytvJ31FRjnuahU8AGoLWxcmaZgwE4r3m8rqQIRoasKj_A/s1600/go+for+it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="750" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicfJ4JkeM85uQ9r0D3f-OiwqmGjDBg3fuXc21Z6YfTom0V7cBqHQavdZbKtuTyZy-QvQLfV_VWjd-6AljpTpNGyUYey-MOAjytvJ31FRjnuahU8AGoLWxcmaZgwE4r3m8rqQIRoasKj_A/s640/go+for+it.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Pinterest with no source</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
First, A Story</h3>
I want to share a story that happened a couple weeks ago with my oldest son. My two boys have been skiing for a couple seasons and have gotten pretty good. However, my oldest this year kept asking if he could try snowboarding. I grew up snowboarding, or should I say, trying to snowboard. It is brutally tough. I tried skiing this past year and fell only once the whole day...so much easier (and less painful). When my son asked to try the new sport, my husband and I tried to talk him out of it. We didn't want him to have a frustrating day on the slopes when he could have a fun time instead. But he kept asking, and we eventually said, "Ok, only if you realize it is hard and we don't want to hear you complaining the whole day." I am so glad he was brave and decided to do it. He got out there and kept on trying. He didn't complain. He was a little scared, but he was brave, and he pushed through it. And he was good. He was a natural.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdHF_tCMDf1wazrYJeJ2nRWayYdjugEvur9vDBlznHHaEdB1-JxC9ixQHvOtHZydErOCuF-7SsSQ5MJIBW6alngCVlhNFdAVvAygVxI1JqaPNgbu-GVnSMn61fTQ6NvSRFE-kUURm_Ew/s1600/IMG_20180322_085420802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1600" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdHF_tCMDf1wazrYJeJ2nRWayYdjugEvur9vDBlznHHaEdB1-JxC9ixQHvOtHZydErOCuF-7SsSQ5MJIBW6alngCVlhNFdAVvAygVxI1JqaPNgbu-GVnSMn61fTQ6NvSRFE-kUURm_Ew/s640/IMG_20180322_085420802.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My oldest is the one pictured on the right, happily holding his snowboard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I bring this story up, because I believe we have these inner desires that burn within us, encouraging us to give them energy and attention. When we do, we find that we have a natural ability to do them. I am not saying we are immediate experts, or are even talented right away. But if we work on these desires, and recognize that we will still have to work, try, mess up, and continue to believe in ourselves, we will have happiness and joy along the journey, and will most likely end up thriving.<br />
<br />
<h3>
So Just Do It, right?</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLyTvD0kAdK-sltaGXlizb1vbHiCY5l5Gings-NFIWGlJZ24jBzUbJD57Hhn70h4wa6J8W0jH2frTYM34rdPqNlaiqMZ6j8MfkzqDXP1tc9gr-QkwLb4qRlJohn35ybecu5DCtaSpTt5k/s1600/Step.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLyTvD0kAdK-sltaGXlizb1vbHiCY5l5Gings-NFIWGlJZ24jBzUbJD57Hhn70h4wa6J8W0jH2frTYM34rdPqNlaiqMZ6j8MfkzqDXP1tc9gr-QkwLb4qRlJohn35ybecu5DCtaSpTt5k/s640/Step.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thefunnybeaver.com/21-inspiring-great-motivational-quotes/">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
I love this quote, it makes the decision seem so much easier. But we all know it isn't. However, maybe it actually is? If we decide to worry more about what we think vs. what other's think, then it makes it harder <i>not</i> to do something that we want to. In answer to all of those questions I wrote above, maybe we need to tell ourselves this...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZJ1zXwlC6LBDQ3quIGfF2tzhmQ8_uslIfztDfpBKTh_mxONJoPapfAK-85Gy9WAh1uB4BSFB9UAIqob-ZbwWbGfoUIEwp04Ff7U4tmlf7ZA_RvTWIw5G4Y3kcI8QRwt1RXfNSNFRC9Y8/s1600/no+competition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZJ1zXwlC6LBDQ3quIGfF2tzhmQ8_uslIfztDfpBKTh_mxONJoPapfAK-85Gy9WAh1uB4BSFB9UAIqob-ZbwWbGfoUIEwp04Ff7U4tmlf7ZA_RvTWIw5G4Y3kcI8QRwt1RXfNSNFRC9Y8/s1600/no+competition.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
There is only one you, and there is only one me. Even though we are similar to one another, we each have a unique makeup that keeps us from competing. So I'm gonna say it, I'm gonna say what I have been too embarrassed to say all along---I'm working on writing a children's book. There I said it.<br />
<br />
Many of you know that I tried this awhile back. In fact I wrote a post on here about it, but then time passed and I was embarrassed about it and deleted the post. I wrote a story that I thoroughly believed in and submitted it to a few publishers that were open to new writers. I never heard back from any of them. People kept telling me that Dr. Seuss, and J.K. Rowling had to go through tons of rejections to get a chance, and that I should keep on trying. But I learned that my first story, even my second story, and many others since, weren't good enough to keep pursuing. I put their ideas on the back burner, and gave the new ideas that were fighting for my attention, some energy. I have been studying book after children's book. Typing out their words so I can see how simply they're written without the illustrations. I am studying writing books. I am joining writing groups. I am letting other writers critique my work, and I am critiquing theirs. I have days where the sky is the limit, and days where I ask myself if I am an idiot for trying to enter a <i>very competitive</i> market that is next to impossible to get into. And even though children's writers make next to nothing, it has always been a desire of mine, and it is so much fun. I finally have found an outlet for the constant barrage of ideas that flood my mind on a daily basis. I love reading books to my children, and now I am thoroughly enjoying the art of writing them too.<br />
<br />
Who knows if anything will ever come of it. All I know is that this idea in my brain has been rattling around in there a long time, and it isn't going away. When I give it my attention, it gets excited and it grows. There are days when the ideas dry up, or seem mad at me, but I have to keep telling myself to try. This is normal.<br />
<br />
I also thoroughly believe that "where there is a will there is a way," and that hard work and honest introspection pay off..<br />
<br />
I write all of this to hold myself accountable to you, and to myself. I know that tomorrow I will most likely feel discouraged and dumb, and feel tempted to call this a wasteful effort. But no effort is wasted if it brings us joy and growth. Creating in all of it's many forms brings happiness, fulfillment, and knowledge about ourselves, and all of those things are worth it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDbIFUzpkz6lp2ClMJiy9ma__2j7jSiwQS3kgaWYTy7kgmfaOOMPvY82FFf9vJLLjVWrvPffHSKwpUL-55zgmCnjPxJWWs8gVZFo7cS93KMOFgmxKyKaHNgkBCzXJU6S3b_KYMuMtQL2A/s1600/be+fierce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDbIFUzpkz6lp2ClMJiy9ma__2j7jSiwQS3kgaWYTy7kgmfaOOMPvY82FFf9vJLLjVWrvPffHSKwpUL-55zgmCnjPxJWWs8gVZFo7cS93KMOFgmxKyKaHNgkBCzXJU6S3b_KYMuMtQL2A/s640/be+fierce.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now be honest with yourself, and let those ideas that have been begging for your attention to free themselves! Believe in yourself! Be fierce!<br />
<br />
Happy Creating!Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-26735323726680902302018-03-14T07:20:00.000-07:002018-03-14T07:35:25.412-07:00FREE Articles of Faith Large Printable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
It's been almost a year since I posted this <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2017/04/hall-decor-that-brings-generations.html">free printable</a> of the Family Proclamation, and since then I have received so many requests for the Living Christ and the 13 Articles of Faith to go with it. Today I am giving you the FREE printable of the 13 Articles of Faith, of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It can be printed as small as you like, but is prepared for a 24"x30" engineering print via OfficeMax or Staples, which are only a few bucks. If "Family Proclamation" and "Articles of Faith" are things you've never heard of before, well then I encourage you to take a second and read them for the first time. I am assuming you've heard of "Mormons" before, and most likely have heard all kinds of things about who/what Mormons are, but equally likely they are untrue. Reading these documents will give you an idea of what Mormons truly are/what we believe, in a nutshell. And if you'd like to learn more, I encourage you to visit <a href="https://www.mormon.org/">here</a>.<br />
<br />
To get your free printable, or to read what Mormon's, (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,) believe, read on...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixfUNr0P8GA1rLn8oQINRnWlAqN2jvM0D2cKyBHDmg1TVzVbXhMzbkTM4yAwDWW61ChRge9DQlk1SA2B0ZycTvIQ42RrbTFv1VoDJie9Vkk3SwbJffN62RWwzAJ_IZyEmvexhTj8jS-4/s1600/Articles+of+Faith+printable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixfUNr0P8GA1rLn8oQINRnWlAqN2jvM0D2cKyBHDmg1TVzVbXhMzbkTM4yAwDWW61ChRge9DQlk1SA2B0ZycTvIQ42RrbTFv1VoDJie9Vkk3SwbJffN62RWwzAJ_IZyEmvexhTj8jS-4/s640/Articles+of+Faith+printable.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Because I made the Family Proclamation printable for a 24"x36" poster frame, I made this printable the same size. The fact that the file is a jpeg, you will be able to minimize it's size if you prefer printing it smaller. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
How to get an Engineering Print</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Staples and OfficeMax are the two places near me that offer affordable blueprints/engineering prints. Although they can print in color, these prints are often for large black and white prints. I have had them print a large photograph for my boys' room before, but large amounts of grayscale does not come out in the best quality. For prints that are all font, they work excellently. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Click <a href="https://www.officedepot.com/configurator/pod/#/product/blueprints">here</a> to upload the file to OfficeDepot, who charges $3.36 for a 24"x36" print currently. If your computer is like mine, and blocks the ability to upload the file, call your nearest store and ask them for their print/copy email. You can then email the jpeg file directly to them with the size you would like them to print it. They will email you when it is ready for pickup.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once you order it, they will contact you to let you know when your print is ready.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Click on the image below. Save the jpeg file to your computer. <br />
Or click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1puJov_JYyHbMoE8qAeGiNCAIgFnWlRy0/view?usp=sharing">here</a> to download the PDF, or <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pZxKq16XQuD9GWr285ujtDZsaoFzngdJ/view?usp=sharing">here</a> for the jpeg if the file below doesn't work.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtDBwnFrciGgsExbNH-9OtjcAEbHqe23KUfmpWqFrqlFdRsLZp_I0qvYDoChfZTLpEvLMjDUl6lSdigByafYiIXo1PwMII9as6KfPpZQgjZwVlrC8c9S3LRlmJ84Jc1RaYaCqAeq3Bvg/s1600/AofF.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1219" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtDBwnFrciGgsExbNH-9OtjcAEbHqe23KUfmpWqFrqlFdRsLZp_I0qvYDoChfZTLpEvLMjDUl6lSdigByafYiIXo1PwMII9as6KfPpZQgjZwVlrC8c9S3LRlmJ84Jc1RaYaCqAeq3Bvg/s1600/AofF.jpg" width="487" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And that is it! If you run into any issues downloading the above file to your computer, please comment below so that I can help you out. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Stay tuned for a free printable of The Living Christ coming soon...</div>
<br />
<br />Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-55671049379858219052018-03-06T10:47:00.000-08:002018-03-06T10:47:24.491-08:00Easy Updating Magic Using Gel Stain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Today I am going to show you how easy it is to update furniture, or other woodwork, (that is no longer the "in" stain,) with only 1 coat of General Finishes Java Gel Stain.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQmNMU5B1V_RvDVg96blzNb2e2rfdRqahtZsLCq52RZF1iOFiwhusc-7fS8GptG_KzkIraw2Uy_hvmiG7FdODYB5ydqPbSGYutVVgTfiiXK47bcZam3hkwkKblreUNYsqCeP289gB7aag/s1600/updating+magic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQmNMU5B1V_RvDVg96blzNb2e2rfdRqahtZsLCq52RZF1iOFiwhusc-7fS8GptG_KzkIraw2Uy_hvmiG7FdODYB5ydqPbSGYutVVgTfiiXK47bcZam3hkwkKblreUNYsqCeP289gB7aag/s640/updating+magic.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: left;">
I bought a table and 8 chairs the other day for $75. When looking for a dining set to re-sell, look for solid wood, and clean simple lines. I wasn't a fan that it was counter height, but know that some people prefer this style.</div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Step 1: Clean & Sand</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I used my Zep Citrus Degreaser to clean the table, but any other cleaning product works fine. If the table and chairs are particularly dirty or greasy, then I recommend something more powerful like what I used.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I then used a 220 grit sanding sponge I had, and did a light sanding in the direction of the grain. Do an extra good job on the table surface, edges of the tabletop, table legs, chair seats and backs, and the chair legs where people's legs and feet will always be. You sand to give the gel stain something to adhere to, so think of where the furniture will get the most wear and tear, and make sure you prep that area well.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Wipe off dust.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmV8NwBr5K_Fh0XGRZgHGOE8h7FYVM2j6Y2SvWdeKlQzX7R_3xYuHnEs9FYIOwhU7NzRi4wp_nJ9Wn0IUIBARbga6yrs-wNLGpk8aQdgyd-2971fgSowVVYol1iGsOnP0t-QYCDHHc-Zk/s1600/IMG_4275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1527" data-original-width="1600" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmV8NwBr5K_Fh0XGRZgHGOE8h7FYVM2j6Y2SvWdeKlQzX7R_3xYuHnEs9FYIOwhU7NzRi4wp_nJ9Wn0IUIBARbga6yrs-wNLGpk8aQdgyd-2971fgSowVVYol1iGsOnP0t-QYCDHHc-Zk/s640/IMG_4275.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the table section's after I sanded, but before I wiped off the dust. See the white area on the other table section? Most likely an area that was damaged due to something hot being placed on it. I needed to use the stain to help cover this blemish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Step 2: Wipe on Gel Stain</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I always recommend General Finishes gel stain because it is a superior product that looks beautiful, lasts, and is easy to use. It goes a very long way too. This whole project probably used up less than 1/2 cup of it.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakFGSEZ97qTIRqFjAd5WqPzhSuZQtya3MjjWHA88Ek4cvnd2jBAN5vq8V__obFR5c4Q8aHtz-pKki3TTCyVsZhccDUncLe3TfWfnO3XG6srr2l_y2SDeNGm0_SesBhLw2W1KuQDQvVxA/s1600/Picture+11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="274" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakFGSEZ97qTIRqFjAd5WqPzhSuZQtya3MjjWHA88Ek4cvnd2jBAN5vq8V__obFR5c4Q8aHtz-pKki3TTCyVsZhccDUncLe3TfWfnO3XG6srr2l_y2SDeNGm0_SesBhLw2W1KuQDQvVxA/s200/Picture+11.png" width="165" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The most affordable place I have found for G.F. gel stain is at Woodcraft. It is about $17 for a pint (I think). <br />You will have plenty leftover for many, many more projects.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When applying gel stain, I put a sandwich bag on my hand, and then an old sock over it. I then dip the tips of my fingers barely in the stain, and wipe it on light and smooth in the direction of the grain. You do not need to wipe off gel stain like you do regular stain. Gel stain does not sink into the wood, but instead stays on the surface. So the way it looks when you first apply it, is how it will be when it dries.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Allow it to dry 6+ hours, or until it is no longer tacky feeling.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitMlJUoSWlzXjqzBC4fY09wLd9xaRN6D3OF-XCcC7oTP_1078dS3uIod6CyC7-LU3BlFLSdgi9BEiAhbReFtNUiJGwanIZHeARxkpRcALnKu6VFUJ-TcpqrjyKshktRnVwd4UvlG3ya24/s1600/IMG_4278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitMlJUoSWlzXjqzBC4fY09wLd9xaRN6D3OF-XCcC7oTP_1078dS3uIod6CyC7-LU3BlFLSdgi9BEiAhbReFtNUiJGwanIZHeARxkpRcALnKu6VFUJ-TcpqrjyKshktRnVwd4UvlG3ya24/s640/IMG_4278.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before and after one coat of gel stain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Hz6JAmZlimbT22vD0VixJ2x2lNzRXqWcP3wHyNZnproOIvpmy_IylRC4wZez6TSUtwT9GAZ2PSpiM4PjdWmlovSI5D6hbR5_Wu_WSBGV5D9SmELHQbc0CsTXvKUhzPSgQLXLXTlehL8/s1600/Chairs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="858" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Hz6JAmZlimbT22vD0VixJ2x2lNzRXqWcP3wHyNZnproOIvpmy_IylRC4wZez6TSUtwT9GAZ2PSpiM4PjdWmlovSI5D6hbR5_Wu_WSBGV5D9SmELHQbc0CsTXvKUhzPSgQLXLXTlehL8/s640/Chairs1.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before and after one coat of gel stain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Step 3: Wipe on Protective Top Coat</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrkKC46bQSKDpcz2XS9olwLyLzzgF4qEqa-nz3HzFdBj0hCa0th1vw08MqA26OR9u1A9omUWxqMO1dCHZhCRYuMU1FgbKPKVsA5kU0titYPXrhItC1Tdj5nj4HDmEHPo490E9T6jNL5Y/s1600/Picture+12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="271" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrkKC46bQSKDpcz2XS9olwLyLzzgF4qEqa-nz3HzFdBj0hCa0th1vw08MqA26OR9u1A9omUWxqMO1dCHZhCRYuMU1FgbKPKVsA5kU0titYPXrhItC1Tdj5nj4HDmEHPo490E9T6jNL5Y/s200/Picture+12.png" width="165" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When using gel stain, I always use General Finishes Gel Topcoat in Satin finish for protection my work. I apply it just like I do gel stain. It takes about the same amount of time to dry. For tabletops you want 2-3 coats of topcoat since you will be washing them often, as well as there is a lot of friction or heat that the topcoats protect against. I apply 2-3 coats on the chair seats and the chair rung that people rest their feet on too. For the other areas, 1 coat should be fine. This topcoat leaves your furniture looking professionally finished...I love it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Step 4: Enjoy your Brand New Table Set</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The whole project took me about a week, with just an hour or two spent each day. With drying times, you can't do much more in one day's time. For each chair, it took me about 20 minutes to put gel stain in every nook, cranny, etc. The table areas are much simpler to wipe stain onto, so that took less time. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When everything is dry, it looks and feels like a brand new table. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Hope the ease and affordability of this project encourages you to update an outdated furniture piece you already have.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4d0EQBK6BvokIeOSxkiiRACtaednQL4jTus11SomCesElAnTvMQHMsqy253xGc94R9bLD96rvB0jpiC6BbrF7bnK2zTzoqPJ6CPrqI9j7Tpc_CZWeDTnwZ7zJR1D8WQyDNP7-j7T2I-A/s1600/Table2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="918" data-original-width="685" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4d0EQBK6BvokIeOSxkiiRACtaednQL4jTus11SomCesElAnTvMQHMsqy253xGc94R9bLD96rvB0jpiC6BbrF7bnK2zTzoqPJ6CPrqI9j7Tpc_CZWeDTnwZ7zJR1D8WQyDNP7-j7T2I-A/s640/Table2.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy creating!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9079540409444790209.post-88315933018845358192018-01-31T07:02:00.000-08:002018-01-31T07:02:20.083-08:00Published in Flea Market Home & Living<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I got some exciting news last week--one of my furniture makeover projects was featured in January's issue of <i>Flea Market Home & Living</i>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDw36atY-iGiJeaFh7gldcbNU7RjN0TB091GaFn2NtXRZ7RZ3EZ_ut7M5tbHeHNYUdFmWNk1PzXxGecdLWEZJdxM1WwieVT0FM8zSwO64in-sn4250NdNYXkagNHigCsaQfBjVUD8Tqg/s1600/Flea+Market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDw36atY-iGiJeaFh7gldcbNU7RjN0TB091GaFn2NtXRZ7RZ3EZ_ut7M5tbHeHNYUdFmWNk1PzXxGecdLWEZJdxM1WwieVT0FM8zSwO64in-sn4250NdNYXkagNHigCsaQfBjVUD8Tqg/s1600/Flea+Market.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Read on to see what furniture project was published...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Months ago I was contacted by the woman that was putting the magazine together, and she asked if she could pay me to have one of my projects featured in the new magazine. Toning down my excitement so I could sound professional, I in essence told her, "Of course!"<br />
<br />
After emailing back and forth, I forgot all about it, and then had a random thought last week, "Oh yeah, I wonder what happened with that magazine?" Within a couple hours I received an email from her that the magazine was on news stands nationwide! Funny how our brains work sometimes.<br />
<br />
Here is what it looked like on the shelves of Barnes and Noble (notice it is next to so many <i>awesome and inspiring</i> magazines?! So cool!):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2skZqclAqXw4dEoJ1FIBlQU33v1jlo83Ix_kS6kxnnrDlFycGaat9rH2j-yJPpi-m71X6Em4FkMiTFd21-Ot0TmY6JwCJdlW3Fw7LizGErLJvML-OOx_fKHPPcHuFVuyy_dqaSBA2GjY/s1600/Magazine+rack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="858" data-original-width="1144" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2skZqclAqXw4dEoJ1FIBlQU33v1jlo83Ix_kS6kxnnrDlFycGaat9rH2j-yJPpi-m71X6Em4FkMiTFd21-Ot0TmY6JwCJdlW3Fw7LizGErLJvML-OOx_fKHPPcHuFVuyy_dqaSBA2GjY/s640/Magazine+rack.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And here is the full page spread, on page 42, of the "<a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2015/04/fixer-upper-inspired-farmhouse-hutch.html">Fixer Upper Farmhouse Hutch</a>" I did:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaVmvA0_CSpKsggkejOAT8zKoql2DPa8IVA3Cy91wP5vxCQavMCnaM6e2httEIAzYZK-75piRZWK62R86AmODWnwnWndOAE7fo8IBzxb-hFRgd64pNKnlYEwo9zmyuWEdZ7Yx85UMXYG0/s1600/Insidemagazine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1229" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaVmvA0_CSpKsggkejOAT8zKoql2DPa8IVA3Cy91wP5vxCQavMCnaM6e2httEIAzYZK-75piRZWK62R86AmODWnwnWndOAE7fo8IBzxb-hFRgd64pNKnlYEwo9zmyuWEdZ7Yx85UMXYG0/s640/Insidemagazine.jpg" width="491" /></a></div>
<br />
The editors wrote such a nice little bio about my site, as well as summarized the steps to recreate the project. I should have them write for this site instead since they are a lot more succinct!<br />
<br />
The farmhouse hutch is still one of my most popular posts, but has recently been surpassed by my post on <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2015/08/how-to-paint-perfect-lines-and-fix.html">repairing laminate furniture</a>, and how to <a href="http://www.mimiberrycreations.com/2014/06/drab-to-fab-piano-transformation-using.html">update an old piano</a>. Maybe the publishing of this article will bring back what a fun project this was, since it is easy to do, and fixes the problem of what to do with outdated decorative stained glass windows.<br />
<br />
Just wanted to share with all of you a big surprise and source of excitement in my world lately. Here's to you all getting exciting news in your lives today too!Mimi Crisenberryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17394709216155440506noreply@blogger.com0