DIY: Kid Stool Re-Do

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I have another kid-based activity in the pipeline, but thought I would share something I did for the kids rather than with them this week: turned an old paint-splattered stool into a mini play table for their play house!

I regret that I do not have a true “before” picture of the stool, because it was a sight for sore eyes and just adding a couple coats of paint to the top did wonders:DSC_0085

But I will just say that it was a dark finish with lots of scratches and paint splatters that had moved beyond the “this stool has character” stage long ago. I picked this up at a thrift store, brought it home, slapped on a coat of primer, then two coats of cream-colored paint (leftover Restoration Hardware’s Mediterranean White), then let it dry. Inspired by this amazing take on wallpaper (scroll down until you see the bees), I decided to add gold bees:DSC_0087

Like the link suggests, I used a metallic gold ink pad, and very carefully stamped out the design I wanted. Also, the ink did take several days to dry (and I’m still not too sure it is wipe-proof). But it is certainly more interesting than a plain white or wooden play table. Plus, the bumble bees kind of sparkle in the sunshine!

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Find your own bumblebee stamp here!

Happy DIY-Thursday!

Two Boys, a Dog, and a Table

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We are cozying up for the holidays. Anxiously awaiting the arrival of many friends and family over the next two weeks. Nothing makes me happier than a house full of people… to play with, talk to, cook for, and just be with. So come on, already!

Oh! And we finally had a new light fixture put up in our dining room. Those of you who know us know that our taste is… different. I guess a little more modern? I am loving the industrial/primitive look of the fixture, but am looking for ways to soften the room a little now. Any ideas for table linens or centerpieces for our upcoming Thanksgiving feast?

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Getting there…

Two more days until Mary and family arrive! Three until Cat and Garriy come! And just shy of a week until all heck breaks loose when 5 little boys under the age of 5 plus 6 adults and 1 dog all convene under this roof! Holla. Day.

Home Tour: Oliver’s and Milo’s Rooms

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Okay (cough. cough). I have succumbed to peer pressure. Here are TWO rooms from our house, the first that we finished so that the boys would be settled and comfortable as quickly as possible.

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So there is Oliver’s room. Pretty basic, gray-blue walls. One entire wall is white wooden bead board, and we decided to keep that as is for now. It has actually grown on me, and is perfect for a little one’s room.

Next up: Milo’s room. Many of you may recognize the wall color… I figure if you find something that works, use it. In three different houses, even!

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And Andrew took this picture the other day of Oliver in the living room, but it shows the dining room in the background pretty well. We will be changing the light fixture, centering it over the table, and replacing the IKEA folding chairs with benches eventually, as well as adding a sitting area where you see the rug (between the table and where Oliver is sitting). It doesn’t show in this picture, but the dining room is huge, and really there is enough space for two living areas. So… that will be the next project! Stay tuned for more of the tour!

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