tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57662817926291444462024-03-05T21:48:34.147-06:00Modern Daydesigning a modern lifeMatt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-79243214710603615572013-11-15T15:22:00.000-06:002013-11-15T15:22:59.919-06:00Recovering the Klobo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The IKEA Klobo loveseat is a great little piece of furniture. We've had ours for over 5 years, and despite being clean and tidy folks, the white fabric inevitably picks up stains and spots, especially since we now have a dog (muddy paws!!). It was getting to the point that we had to do something--very embarrassing! <br />
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Quickly I realized upgrading to a new sofa was out of the question. A good budget-friendly solution turned out to be recovering the Klobo, as structurally it was still in great shape, it just looked disgusting. So I set out on a mission to find nice fabric for a nice price. I scored at Joann.com with a half-off coupon code. I bought 9 yards (turned out I could have gotten by with 8 but it would have been very close) for a grand total of $45. The hardest part of this undertaking was finding a fabric and at a price we both could agree on. Finally we found a lovely dark grey with a subtle printed texture.<br />
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The beauty of IKEA furniture is that they can be easily disassembled. I sewed the more fitted areas (the arms and back) and stapled everything to the underside, then put it all back together. Also, because the Klobo didn't have a whole lot of soft padding to begin with, I added a layer of memory foam (from an old mattress pad we weren't using) to the seat and arms and now it is SUPER comfy!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GAddBQmIBRdi4fWn0rTy-cIZZIO1gMQBc8HGAPxCwAG7saKGf5s5WHF466tcvCxui3NCci4jLyrqvRP25LnczKREip-Kq7jh6eIWsW8DCKLa6f3I5agM5zjrWWcp25LTqGqyDF2gKaQ/s1600/2013-11-09+15.01.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GAddBQmIBRdi4fWn0rTy-cIZZIO1gMQBc8HGAPxCwAG7saKGf5s5WHF466tcvCxui3NCci4jLyrqvRP25LnczKREip-Kq7jh6eIWsW8DCKLa6f3I5agM5zjrWWcp25LTqGqyDF2gKaQ/s400/2013-11-09+15.01.25.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
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To finish the whole thing off, I got a can of 3M Scotchgard protector for fabric/upholstery to help keep it looking nice even longer.<br />
Does this qualify as an IKEA hack? Either way, we just got at least another good 2 years from our $99 loveseat!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpK8BJcF5tRiHPh_lIaXWwqtqpAd6K5K2rx2YDKvT8c7bqd6k-oKzVEpJCqC59Naf5_xzhhDgHpG0HG55hZaI_8Ch9pdEsKr1qQ-9TmzJagV8pjhjbZYpevAX4MeiU4Ry-ErrqPwOy9s/s1600/2013-11-13+16.11.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpK8BJcF5tRiHPh_lIaXWwqtqpAd6K5K2rx2YDKvT8c7bqd6k-oKzVEpJCqC59Naf5_xzhhDgHpG0HG55hZaI_8Ch9pdEsKr1qQ-9TmzJagV8pjhjbZYpevAX4MeiU4Ry-ErrqPwOy9s/s400/2013-11-13+16.11.45.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think these two approve. </td></tr>
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Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-83410532879728344452013-11-09T08:37:00.000-06:002013-11-09T08:37:49.993-06:00Cuttin' a RugHappy news in the Matt&Bobbie family.....we are now puppy parents! Ok, we've had Zooey over 4 months now, but that's just how behind on this blog I am.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOseznNy1UAT4cnJJ37kfg_NcQ89hBPcUY__wYOtHCKhiPA0Y10WHMHz9ZiLZIouhpmHfj5JLtL11cn7TBNFlBDLD68MD8i4FwSwEzicfRuKvrCN2pNYfCQkmq-yvlSR_Ylm_csGXPiSU/s1600/2013-07-26+13.31.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOseznNy1UAT4cnJJ37kfg_NcQ89hBPcUY__wYOtHCKhiPA0Y10WHMHz9ZiLZIouhpmHfj5JLtL11cn7TBNFlBDLD68MD8i4FwSwEzicfRuKvrCN2pNYfCQkmq-yvlSR_Ylm_csGXPiSU/s400/2013-07-26+13.31.28.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
She is a great dog--we love her so much!<br />
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In other news, I got restless with my current pillow collection and wanted to mix things up. In a momentary fit of insanity, I almost dropped $100 on three Turkish kilim pillow covers on Ebay. Not sure if Zooey is out of her chewing phase, I realized it would be crazy to spend that much.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOTVAIj_eUyNTfy16VtdGtSDbKWi2osKq_QRRN0maO1-vZkjcM-BuUuodcR3pXUrgvNXxd88PI9MBeVXJl4djQQSmmqtJsdpKLPQSYy1dGtxOI-cf_27zrkGy7ElyW6F44R3WBX4FpsI/s1600/2013-10-23+16.44.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOTVAIj_eUyNTfy16VtdGtSDbKWi2osKq_QRRN0maO1-vZkjcM-BuUuodcR3pXUrgvNXxd88PI9MBeVXJl4djQQSmmqtJsdpKLPQSYy1dGtxOI-cf_27zrkGy7ElyW6F44R3WBX4FpsI/s320/2013-10-23+16.44.51.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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So, during one of my rare (wink) thrifting outtings, I came across a very large woven rug with some very interesting colors and shapes in it. The rug as a whole I did not like, but I could see at least a couple pillows being cut from it. So, for $5, I bought the beast and proceeded to chop it up.<br />
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I could not be happier. In the meantime, I have no idea what I am going to do with the other 90% of the rug, but that's what junk closets are for.<br />
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Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-62761738701184251172013-07-27T09:05:00.000-05:002013-07-27T09:05:52.391-05:00Summer Succulents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh7TGx3Yi2C2ChFEaPsbeQFgIGRocabwTK4MYAsDLF-GvYLaPXfGyTE1hOcmNc2rUA95ru9PVW1BVZkgCAVFQgWL5b1bRvYl7IuEBBN1eSGSdS4aVQI0xiJ55gZTfSHQtmSIrYCIlhRfI/s1600/2013-07-26+14.48.33+-+Edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh7TGx3Yi2C2ChFEaPsbeQFgIGRocabwTK4MYAsDLF-GvYLaPXfGyTE1hOcmNc2rUA95ru9PVW1BVZkgCAVFQgWL5b1bRvYl7IuEBBN1eSGSdS4aVQI0xiJ55gZTfSHQtmSIrYCIlhRfI/s640/2013-07-26+14.48.33+-+Edited.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I have my mom to thank for my green thumb and love of nature. While at her house yesterday, I saw (one of my favorite plants in the whole world) this Gasteria (which is massive--probably over a foot wide and leaves 2 inches thick) with a gorgeous bloom stalk emerging!<br />
I've been considering getting a tattoo on my ankle and I think this is it!<br />
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This is so beautiful now--I hope I can photograph it when the flowers are actually open!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_rJ3tu6Us03rU4jy0sLtXfi2CgUiVHWHqOCRIuq5aDovus4MXAWyWHzCA3BjYN-DElsceqLUk0XstFUQU1UY8H02WEl4_eZ9dxU1Fw-NY1o_PVG0Jf3VQFd3a-ROmmRu0oqCFwzClLw/s1600/2013-07-26+14.50.14+-+Edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_rJ3tu6Us03rU4jy0sLtXfi2CgUiVHWHqOCRIuq5aDovus4MXAWyWHzCA3BjYN-DElsceqLUk0XstFUQU1UY8H02WEl4_eZ9dxU1Fw-NY1o_PVG0Jf3VQFd3a-ROmmRu0oqCFwzClLw/s640/2013-07-26+14.50.14+-+Edited.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">you can see how thick and meaty the leaves are--<br />and check out that gorgeous blue color!!</td></tr>
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I am a proud plant parent to my Euphorbia which has a special story behind it. The center pictures are how it looks after almost four years.Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-4338935955852145342013-07-17T21:23:00.000-05:002013-07-17T21:23:44.542-05:00Beautiful Blooming Cacti<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4ZKa07SqEgvMiOJ1_xEobq__ji08PjzTaqYh1EKPzoNA7TK_ExB_PgBDKxZHAeMz9Y5sIJ1ScY93hYQg8qUsO-2_yM52vmSYLuJZdqKMAJfhP2EwC69PViC8JiYAqI67YpS7ZTe4iY8/s1600/fotorCactusFlowers1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4ZKa07SqEgvMiOJ1_xEobq__ji08PjzTaqYh1EKPzoNA7TK_ExB_PgBDKxZHAeMz9Y5sIJ1ScY93hYQg8qUsO-2_yM52vmSYLuJZdqKMAJfhP2EwC69PViC8JiYAqI67YpS7ZTe4iY8/s400/fotorCactusFlowers1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I am getting some major cactus flower action! My <span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Echinopsis </i><span lang="EN-GB"><i>subdenudata </i>produces enormous beautiful ethereally white (they almost look like they are glowing even in the daylight) flowers. They open at night, and by morning's end they are closed and wilted. As if they aren't stunning enough, they have the most wonderful sweet, citrus-y scent. </span></span></span><br />
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As a colorful contrast my <i>gymnocalycium </i>shows off pink blossoms. I have another <i>gymno. </i>variety which will be ready to bloom in a week or so.Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-6334387946067973852013-07-07T08:50:00.000-05:002013-07-07T08:50:59.659-05:00Succulent Sea GardenI got pretty artsy recently when Matt requested some plants for his new office.<br />
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I chose pencil cactus, some cuttings of an elongated variegated Opuntia (which turn pink in the sun) and a small low-growing fan Crassula. White gravel, blue sea glass pebbles, and some shells complete the look. I think it is just gorgeous.<br />
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<br />Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-49498641402307829292013-06-27T19:37:00.001-05:002013-06-27T19:38:02.608-05:00Jazz up that Hummus<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/AVvXsEgKUGLUdn4Nh260a_z_1CcewAKzQvB7f1dpdNCMT_qib_fFAfeshVH-0ScSnx9-XMepSa3jzoijef_ohvWpg29sL3w-qiwMWWehF9lY0_vFkFD5LLjKw6Vrlr2BtMcLlZiGPyuu1U-QKIA/s1600/2013-06-27+17.58.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKUGLUdn4Nh260a_z_1CcewAKzQvB7f1dpdNCMT_qib_fFAfeshVH-0ScSnx9-XMepSa3jzoijef_ohvWpg29sL3w-qiwMWWehF9lY0_vFkFD5LLjKw6Vrlr2BtMcLlZiGPyuu1U-QKIA/s400/2013-06-27+17.58.42.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roasted red pepper hummus covered in parsley, pine nuts, <br />
more red pepper, sumac and olive oil. </td></tr>
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Chances are you will be either hosting or attending at least one backyard bash this summer. So, you need ideas on what to make, right? Well take my advice and whip up a big batch of hummus--almost everyone loves it and there are endless flavor variations to get your taste buds a dancin'. <br />
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Basic Hummus Recipe: Combine 1-- 15oz. can drained <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">CHICKPEAS</span> </span>in a food processor along with at least 1 clove of <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">GARLIC</span>, juice of 1 <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">LEMON</span>, big pinch of <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">SALT</span>, <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">OLIVE OIL</span> and 2 tablespoons <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">TAHINI</span>. Blend until really smooth and the thickness of peanut butter. Taste and add more salt and lemon juice if needed.<br />
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For the love of god do not stop here. Unless you want your guests to fall asleep, you had better add at least a few flavorful garnishes such as:<br />
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<span style="color: #93c47d; font-size: large;"><b>herb or lemon-infused olive oil</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: large;"><b>preserved lemon</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><b>lemon zest</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><b>roasted garlic</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #76a5af;">Fresh or dried oregano</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b>sundried tomatoes</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><b>roasted red peppers</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><b>Kalamata olives</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>chopped fresh parsley, chive and/or mint</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><b>pine nuts</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><b>walnuts</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #741b47;">Chipolte in adobo (very spicy)</span> </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><b>ground Sumac berries</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b>smoked paprika </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><b>toasted and freshly ground cumin seed</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>feta cheese </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #b4a7d6; font-size: large;"><b>plain Greek yogurt </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: large;"><b>Maldon, black Hawaiian, Himalayan pink or flaky sea salt</b></span><br />
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Ok, so now that we're clear on adding awesomeness, we also need to consider the dipping apparatuses involved with hummus. Pita chips are great, but they aren't the only ones that get to have fun. Try tossing your pita or other <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">flatbread</span> </span>with some <span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">flavorful oil</span>,<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #3d85c6;">any dried herbs and spices</span>, <span style="color: #3d85c6;">salt and pepper</span></span> before toasting in the oven or slapping on the grill. Any Crudites would also be a welcome change--think <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">sugar snap peas</span>, <span style="color: #3d85c6;">fresh baby carrots with the greens still on</span>, <span style="color: #3d85c6;">jicama sticks</span>, <span style="color: #3d85c6;">mini bell peppers</span>, or <span style="color: #3d85c6;">endive scoops</span>. </span><br />
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<br />Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-8857482183022575242013-06-08T20:56:00.000-05:002013-06-09T10:38:09.935-05:00Studio Tour<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTpLmrM9bUN1qAmAhFhp4kZWqQbhhPdWSn1OD5HYnp265C4Wb2JT32YcNMqnE7aBfn8kXuJlQMZj8XzjBAFLzWathptnXwmTZKw1h1NqyAiS99ouWvwHrgzfF4OJzDXVU3HcVhfoivbUw/s1600/2013-06-08+19.05.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTpLmrM9bUN1qAmAhFhp4kZWqQbhhPdWSn1OD5HYnp265C4Wb2JT32YcNMqnE7aBfn8kXuJlQMZj8XzjBAFLzWathptnXwmTZKw1h1NqyAiS99ouWvwHrgzfF4OJzDXVU3HcVhfoivbUw/s400/2013-06-08+19.05.38.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorating tip: don't overlook your doors for art-hanging opportunities. </td></tr>
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It was a long, hard road to get to this point, but I can now say that my studio is complete, and lovely, and just the way I want it. Why did it take so long, you ask? Well, when we moved into the house, this room served as the catch-all for all the junk we didn't know what to do with and continued as such for quite some time until I put my foot down and said, "This is MY room...I will only allow things in this room that I love and/or are useful to me." Now, that came with a lot of purging (why I had held onto a mountain of paper scraps and ugly fabric I would never use, I do not know) and thinking and re-thinking furniture layout in a small room.<br />
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For a long time I HATED this room--there was something seriously feng-shui wrong with it, combined with the junky clutter that I just couldn't handle. But now it is calming, beautiful and very conducive to creativity. Without further adieu, please enter my studio tour (a-la Apartment Therapy)....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uq3Wqbxug9WddGoeiFq0BwdR6TXyfxpG5ll0-mlhKJLxdfI4B_arGRVXr_REHbO8wZCZu2OvNJvNWGviZCIen41atrEKVecVDhFANTlGSOV_HgrgwNkitzzhd3ZUdNtuqxesQ1ImkII/s1600/2013-06-08+19.02.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uq3Wqbxug9WddGoeiFq0BwdR6TXyfxpG5ll0-mlhKJLxdfI4B_arGRVXr_REHbO8wZCZu2OvNJvNWGviZCIen41atrEKVecVDhFANTlGSOV_HgrgwNkitzzhd3ZUdNtuqxesQ1ImkII/s400/2013-06-08+19.02.35.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have my afternoon planned....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieTVderMlwcWPAc6DpQqKhDmwkk68UcNVwLqilRpl3OLMFFqoGamw0CpSYFh5hml8ERmklmktqi7Iy08GpDC0P0nXlpOrIihT-C0H3fwcGBYfCXqpbLaeYDbBr83xIYeu8bY5YbWOp-lw/s1600/2013-06-08+19.03.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieTVderMlwcWPAc6DpQqKhDmwkk68UcNVwLqilRpl3OLMFFqoGamw0CpSYFh5hml8ERmklmktqi7Iy08GpDC0P0nXlpOrIihT-C0H3fwcGBYfCXqpbLaeYDbBr83xIYeu8bY5YbWOp-lw/s400/2013-06-08+19.03.24.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These wall-mounted shelves are inexpensive, fairly easy to<br />install and help utilize space all the way to the ceiling. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkSJlIVMzzKXIhOt9jiF_zNeFrpxg6Qn-s_Eb9ggOp-gvnFABkwTadouk5e9VZt3X74OYDuJONIaaye3lUSg7A3WYeIFA9JKmZIBnrpiJg7A4tH3ZBgubhI736MAOBtGhzymD2MpDGxU/s1600/2013-06-08+19.07.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztIOyxluEv4_herQCZjXt2S7XbbRtEAQqb-_RwvVp27JoO8ywuEyKs3T8F3PU_1AvkROocrfCdS8oeMgorYWBwDHrhmsy_trpbN8pmWcOZ72FCgEPMvc6rm-5SgtXhlN2ehbSJBpTLaw/s1600/2013-06-08+19.15.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztIOyxluEv4_herQCZjXt2S7XbbRtEAQqb-_RwvVp27JoO8ywuEyKs3T8F3PU_1AvkROocrfCdS8oeMgorYWBwDHrhmsy_trpbN8pmWcOZ72FCgEPMvc6rm-5SgtXhlN2ehbSJBpTLaw/s320/2013-06-08+19.15.06.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My reading nook.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkYvJNQZaWYpXMBzjizjVx0tOfnNthLCcLIcbHuqG3t0XOtSmjcLrFpNEe3T2cEUVU-GdG6ywmNFvZgTaCE_ejL4LyWwZAILjL_quNeYZN_9HUT8WSMkKHatI8qgEEh31pXadChAg5hpU/s1600/2013-06-08+19.03.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkYvJNQZaWYpXMBzjizjVx0tOfnNthLCcLIcbHuqG3t0XOtSmjcLrFpNEe3T2cEUVU-GdG6ywmNFvZgTaCE_ejL4LyWwZAILjL_quNeYZN_9HUT8WSMkKHatI8qgEEh31pXadChAg5hpU/s320/2013-06-08+19.03.49.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Klobo loveseat from IKEA is invaluable in a small space. <br /> They have been well used and well loved in our apartments over the <br />last few years. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAQlBOJLC8J23qtsWPTFj3NWKtsIZuSf92CeYau-EXCr2g-oqX44VX2C-C7c19QGumWQtihyphenhyphenuP7tVYw5wLhNOD3Uyut6GVzsa6NV-CfGe8M-uyd2N8KzqjVBMfk7xXRrRCkHuFtM0xe0/s1600/2013-06-08+19.08.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAQlBOJLC8J23qtsWPTFj3NWKtsIZuSf92CeYau-EXCr2g-oqX44VX2C-C7c19QGumWQtihyphenhyphenuP7tVYw5wLhNOD3Uyut6GVzsa6NV-CfGe8M-uyd2N8KzqjVBMfk7xXRrRCkHuFtM0xe0/s320/2013-06-08+19.08.13.jpg" width="320" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRtgGhQRQfN2QAlbzAy6qVp8QZStXVt9itfMzhop24zQSsBtonRoW-nnNQu6pSOCkrOY2X30lk-fSJczUMm2DftmVL0-Ot6DAukzNXrN-27jeloXlTQTzwJX8gjv3Jk7ShlIajt0MmpOo/s1600/2013-06-08+19.08.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRtgGhQRQfN2QAlbzAy6qVp8QZStXVt9itfMzhop24zQSsBtonRoW-nnNQu6pSOCkrOY2X30lk-fSJczUMm2DftmVL0-Ot6DAukzNXrN-27jeloXlTQTzwJX8gjv3Jk7ShlIajt0MmpOo/s320/2013-06-08+19.08.26.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpHurbKavhmXGsnL6BsEuYS54ExeY-toxQ5MJcGJLq6U8np5S4Dgd3Tb-p45It8qQWgIf62iWfwOzkL7qln6KmgWRrsR5456SrMnPZg_n3hFVwMB9fpkYv5W8IABkxbNPxgMjmQw-3Ng/s1600/2013-06-08+19.10.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpHurbKavhmXGsnL6BsEuYS54ExeY-toxQ5MJcGJLq6U8np5S4Dgd3Tb-p45It8qQWgIf62iWfwOzkL7qln6KmgWRrsR5456SrMnPZg_n3hFVwMB9fpkYv5W8IABkxbNPxgMjmQw-3Ng/s320/2013-06-08+19.10.28.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This shelf is just a cool vintage wire basket I found for a couple bucks <br />and some wood cut to fit. It holds some of my work and other<br /> inspirational objects. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4J-8ytynBM4HdttVGX5iX60G90n6RN6ZQafou-Tg0vL0OKLOxaKO6we2sFqXuGh3tgerpgi8JHacO0BDrHbr24ZccaeuaLsWf7cCfvE55zWur9_cFl5oV8IhXemB-qwbybiFRvc_pdY/s1600/2013-06-08+19.09.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4J-8ytynBM4HdttVGX5iX60G90n6RN6ZQafou-Tg0vL0OKLOxaKO6we2sFqXuGh3tgerpgi8JHacO0BDrHbr24ZccaeuaLsWf7cCfvE55zWur9_cFl5oV8IhXemB-qwbybiFRvc_pdY/s320/2013-06-08+19.09.52.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkrwHzKAl-QRLmbGWdMCjlr5q9KksVUvssxXFf-CIwr90fpTV7ZuonaVV6J6sxfmyIy9GhitXzhecni0ZgjfKaF0lVoSNY8EHlM6QHYSB2KQ43nnjECMi7_c5EqaKh3M39NSJ-hpOFo0/s1600/2013-06-09+09.53.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkrwHzKAl-QRLmbGWdMCjlr5q9KksVUvssxXFf-CIwr90fpTV7ZuonaVV6J6sxfmyIy9GhitXzhecni0ZgjfKaF0lVoSNY8EHlM6QHYSB2KQ43nnjECMi7_c5EqaKh3M39NSJ-hpOFo0/s320/2013-06-09+09.53.28.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My work table is simply four table legs painted a fantastic orange, <br />with MDF to top it off. It is the perfect size. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2sVAHdXTy-YbqNXt_P1zIHR0Sz_X89qnmeB-9MUhq0SIHbYad2xGe-fDpU5NJc_QvrswSC44-wex4M_mVjuF_F4FRcdzzD3npLYYLYahjW0Dczj2JzfEK8qkM-le7fkbk1YjGnyX62Y/s1600/2013-06-09+09.54.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2sVAHdXTy-YbqNXt_P1zIHR0Sz_X89qnmeB-9MUhq0SIHbYad2xGe-fDpU5NJc_QvrswSC44-wex4M_mVjuF_F4FRcdzzD3npLYYLYahjW0Dczj2JzfEK8qkM-le7fkbk1YjGnyX62Y/s320/2013-06-09+09.54.27.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1DsczWfD9GuOQH0uys_5kxATaIefs3TCbaAmeEkA7ykR0TokKNcmB41m6eMR0-CW4Td95u47GH-OPQJRrQyMlnvhj_qnZKJRIyrWp8QmCUclghFWbJLleVaGErQDvM1jt5cKJEdIx-E/s1600/2013-06-09+09.56.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1DsczWfD9GuOQH0uys_5kxATaIefs3TCbaAmeEkA7ykR0TokKNcmB41m6eMR0-CW4Td95u47GH-OPQJRrQyMlnvhj_qnZKJRIyrWp8QmCUclghFWbJLleVaGErQDvM1jt5cKJEdIx-E/s320/2013-06-09+09.56.01.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7Oxe3RsXmrhrlV9ZZMheL1ZYOqDDeRKMM4xDtFiymJTe_JFpPR7EivwI6_1i4r1Dg8sm_emA3d56E-Bd8Z9jcnsHX1Ps1b8DnwkSsnhDIerkPcaOAsDYNWL9_1pWZKV-YczvRdq3mDM/s1600/2013-06-08+19.07.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7Oxe3RsXmrhrlV9ZZMheL1ZYOqDDeRKMM4xDtFiymJTe_JFpPR7EivwI6_1i4r1Dg8sm_emA3d56E-Bd8Z9jcnsHX1Ps1b8DnwkSsnhDIerkPcaOAsDYNWL9_1pWZKV-YczvRdq3mDM/s400/2013-06-08+19.07.19.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkSJlIVMzzKXIhOt9jiF_zNeFrpxg6Qn-s_Eb9ggOp-gvnFABkwTadouk5e9VZt3X74OYDuJONIaaye3lUSg7A3WYeIFA9JKmZIBnrpiJg7A4tH3ZBgubhI736MAOBtGhzymD2MpDGxU/s1600/2013-06-08+19.07.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkSJlIVMzzKXIhOt9jiF_zNeFrpxg6Qn-s_Eb9ggOp-gvnFABkwTadouk5e9VZt3X74OYDuJONIaaye3lUSg7A3WYeIFA9JKmZIBnrpiJg7A4tH3ZBgubhI736MAOBtGhzymD2MpDGxU/s320/2013-06-08+19.07.42.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what art studio is complete without an inspiration board? </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVjioBjbCWhLbIrZpHxZfnFLA_K55vAHHmTq6Q3j3ZpqXHG9PCc5sS7zeUS2hBMQEoX6Bu10p6DSGT2qwAI3zAz9Ap1e_0hTL7L_uOqiSTGh7tDAJ1MJ3DAXUrBi7FbdacavlIgAh8Vg/s1600/2013-06-08+19.09.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVjioBjbCWhLbIrZpHxZfnFLA_K55vAHHmTq6Q3j3ZpqXHG9PCc5sS7zeUS2hBMQEoX6Bu10p6DSGT2qwAI3zAz9Ap1e_0hTL7L_uOqiSTGh7tDAJ1MJ3DAXUrBi7FbdacavlIgAh8Vg/s320/2013-06-08+19.09.18.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAmJbHkRHHJ-qve95XELHh4ni0-1wT_Kky3w-whY2QZRJwJQIY9ZMDsksRMFxFLKqU4-PvWbKvhucy3ivKxSejMMoSwci35lgUPYS85O_yrT2yBC_1AGw5LNqfQTP8WSQXpJwyo5G7tKM/s1600/2013-06-08+19.10.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAmJbHkRHHJ-qve95XELHh4ni0-1wT_Kky3w-whY2QZRJwJQIY9ZMDsksRMFxFLKqU4-PvWbKvhucy3ivKxSejMMoSwci35lgUPYS85O_yrT2yBC_1AGw5LNqfQTP8WSQXpJwyo5G7tKM/s320/2013-06-08+19.10.59.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I found these shelves at Target for $20 each--they are the perfect<br />size for this spot. </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbT1822DuILNuCqMjgrFSw_fY8aFoZSEc8NMyhymU7VBubJr5GCMqjUv7JneK3khjgl7yHl3ZP1R-zPKn1aL2NhPVmhmDss6aGSPxTYXjSj4XmcW_T5yGTc6P98dn6QgQB3TWLZBnGGZs/s1600/2013-06-08+19.15.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbT1822DuILNuCqMjgrFSw_fY8aFoZSEc8NMyhymU7VBubJr5GCMqjUv7JneK3khjgl7yHl3ZP1R-zPKn1aL2NhPVmhmDss6aGSPxTYXjSj4XmcW_T5yGTc6P98dn6QgQB3TWLZBnGGZs/s320/2013-06-08+19.15.55.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">part of my collection of plant books</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAizLQ1dBxNZx32fA4tgrv-ZgbV-sC7kxsv7HE-omdfDhQXAJ0Vq2QnoG0N2TpslXnZPWYJxmfjmMuvG4Cj9dxa90j6RbqlfqJGyLijYbee1xwypttAc4E6fZ6zg0A7UFF2cpnWhjLFBE/s1600/2013-06-08+19.37.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAizLQ1dBxNZx32fA4tgrv-ZgbV-sC7kxsv7HE-omdfDhQXAJ0Vq2QnoG0N2TpslXnZPWYJxmfjmMuvG4Cj9dxa90j6RbqlfqJGyLijYbee1xwypttAc4E6fZ6zg0A7UFF2cpnWhjLFBE/s320/2013-06-08+19.37.02.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a few of my favorite pottery pieces</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsF7Wv5CqG1BT-58mnFpj5v00bIboZzTl63l3yd-toQYH_VGH3WEWpeFItu7K4S5f9-XSssKfwCwc_YpkZ3BRQHEUeKC-gszoKgPkvLa99Oe2uoQHR6-f3yhVdlUzAMPlS0s664cusEU/s1600/2013-06-08+19.19.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsF7Wv5CqG1BT-58mnFpj5v00bIboZzTl63l3yd-toQYH_VGH3WEWpeFItu7K4S5f9-XSssKfwCwc_YpkZ3BRQHEUeKC-gszoKgPkvLa99Oe2uoQHR6-f3yhVdlUzAMPlS0s664cusEU/s400/2013-06-08+19.19.02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-36275207819266058172013-05-30T18:13:00.000-05:002013-05-30T18:13:52.258-05:00Moving outside<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitpJd4UQ-BamovKj0jOQuHGUpRmafu0JkPoOqg_d-vJiHbYoMX4qIU3Ugb1QCXZd9Ny2CCTejZfERzokxIFFKzLrqGQYnZ1UttMmg4FgVi0vDB8jXBINaAvFSyox5dMZkp3u-9_ejV1lw/s1600/2013-05-30+15.39.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitpJd4UQ-BamovKj0jOQuHGUpRmafu0JkPoOqg_d-vJiHbYoMX4qIU3Ugb1QCXZd9Ny2CCTejZfERzokxIFFKzLrqGQYnZ1UttMmg4FgVi0vDB8jXBINaAvFSyox5dMZkp3u-9_ejV1lw/s640/2013-05-30+15.39.46.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Every summer, I move most of my houseplants outside to soak up the sunshine, be refreshed by the rain, and generally thrive in the fresh air. Each year, I like to experiment with different set-ups for all my plants. Last year and the year before I primarily utilized a rickety (albeit good-looking) wooden plant rack, the year before that was metal shelves on the balcony, and even farther in the past they hung out on little tables I got at Target. Now that I have a yard, I rigged up the biggest, best shelving unit yet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqtxVkxmt9Nrfje7a-TIf80KwSsMYsJAF8zw9KhaanBaffAQhrksvXojj9cfHqZgicXwv5uGIEIhdoBvXhnAMEKJFOulYrS3cLAh90dP_TlS_-q2gNX0kcmeCp6v5I8ls_rCrafIyc-q8/s1600/2013-05-30+15.40.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqtxVkxmt9Nrfje7a-TIf80KwSsMYsJAF8zw9KhaanBaffAQhrksvXojj9cfHqZgicXwv5uGIEIhdoBvXhnAMEKJFOulYrS3cLAh90dP_TlS_-q2gNX0kcmeCp6v5I8ls_rCrafIyc-q8/s400/2013-05-30+15.40.25.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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For about $1 each, I bought six "1/2 size" cinder blocks and Matt rustled up some old wood from the garage. Voila! a great-looking outdoor plant shelf. I made a Buddha face from concrete and will probably hang it above the plants. Look for that project in an upcoming post.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLL7Dji-Lxuc0ldTxERT3uQVqcp9ywAjuarTOroQvdZUtJFS8bOluxtR2qtB68QUnLN1qsTz3TlBGMN_BAfznNLy6_OFvHhndldf3sh11wZFO5FtlVat1QqgGggvSlE2GKTiFTkh5skzY/s1600/2013-05-30+15.40.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLL7Dji-Lxuc0ldTxERT3uQVqcp9ywAjuarTOroQvdZUtJFS8bOluxtR2qtB68QUnLN1qsTz3TlBGMN_BAfznNLy6_OFvHhndldf3sh11wZFO5FtlVat1QqgGggvSlE2GKTiFTkh5skzY/s400/2013-05-30+15.40.43.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwqhEn2ELAQc-oSMK6QyUCWfas3kExIobHR9hPirANIpQxTHAtC_u5kpg_uvoMLg0Io4e85WGgl0gmXzS1vFgsAyyZZqLNf0ohq84CzFHLsUYCtWAGuoVSI51z_txbqEMnDuXNWhTU9c/s1600/2013-05-30+15.41.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwqhEn2ELAQc-oSMK6QyUCWfas3kExIobHR9hPirANIpQxTHAtC_u5kpg_uvoMLg0Io4e85WGgl0gmXzS1vFgsAyyZZqLNf0ohq84CzFHLsUYCtWAGuoVSI51z_txbqEMnDuXNWhTU9c/s320/2013-05-30+15.41.27.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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In other news, my silver squill bulb succulent is blooming. The teeny-tiny blossoms are so pretty--they have bright purple stamens inside the light green and white flowers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGoq0MwhsNzIAM50ll9leoSRLQaRa2cDtWjy4WqHddndo0oKtesuIM8ZHnu0S0nftegMtqigqZB1f3Nsf2-fLxNQ_andj6pK4JLc7TZxoX2AMQbbHwnxRXoCqNTaP88EeiZL4py-cgQM/s1600/2013-05-30+15.47.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGoq0MwhsNzIAM50ll9leoSRLQaRa2cDtWjy4WqHddndo0oKtesuIM8ZHnu0S0nftegMtqigqZB1f3Nsf2-fLxNQ_andj6pK4JLc7TZxoX2AMQbbHwnxRXoCqNTaP88EeiZL4py-cgQM/s640/2013-05-30+15.47.48.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The excitement over this plant spurred me to create this blog. In case you don't remember, check out my<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;"> <a href="http://succulentgarden.blogspot.com/2010/08/euphorbia-leaf-cutting-aka-most.html" target="_blank">first post. </a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuqCbxtXV4ShuoThOJArL-eEkh0ESdgNGNl9ap_k3FULMnF5vQJlisS2RU82aJri8TIYs-OHyFfSqkMgLzXmFzZQKEgLJ81T9igPf7hDdJyZHp8R40BAonzl7NwxPe91r8P4Mny8rZXk/s1600/euphorbia.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPW4PUYOwohgFoFDRdoLrvn_hjxAg9fEQyP-hS_y9zwD38_yVgFEp8Z3KFnk6dvmcsVY_xnhVyamb4GJu2EqPjuFgckCsGrSOU_jeEpcEwZ2Az67sp8-KIq_2XHSOLpSIFr4TQMnNtOw/s1600/euphorbia+baby.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPW4PUYOwohgFoFDRdoLrvn_hjxAg9fEQyP-hS_y9zwD38_yVgFEp8Z3KFnk6dvmcsVY_xnhVyamb4GJu2EqPjuFgckCsGrSOU_jeEpcEwZ2Az67sp8-KIq_2XHSOLpSIFr4TQMnNtOw/s320/euphorbia+baby.JPG" width="240" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuqCbxtXV4ShuoThOJArL-eEkh0ESdgNGNl9ap_k3FULMnF5vQJlisS2RU82aJri8TIYs-OHyFfSqkMgLzXmFzZQKEgLJ81T9igPf7hDdJyZHp8R40BAonzl7NwxPe91r8P4Mny8rZXk/s320/euphorbia.JPG" width="240" /></div>
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Anyway, my precious little euphorbia has performed like a champ. He went from a tiny cutting to growing his first leaf bract, then doubling in size in his first year, growing like crazy in the last two years and now... my baby is a parent! You may remember I chopped the head off the top of the plant, and as a result, the base section is now growing pups. The top part has yet to root, but it's still early and I have hope. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4CAIZ_JU8ej_eQWwUC-OmQMwTZ2oeUMd9aWpx5-bZQYtbUA53-qTZKuXphfURleyRBumknIPLz1i4OvQ4wt3lkbTuo3I-pNC9N8db2drzf7HUChW_O2TO7lqOwJerScdqB5Vpp4v26E/s1600/Edited+-+2013-02-03+20.09.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4CAIZ_JU8ej_eQWwUC-OmQMwTZ2oeUMd9aWpx5-bZQYtbUA53-qTZKuXphfURleyRBumknIPLz1i4OvQ4wt3lkbTuo3I-pNC9N8db2drzf7HUChW_O2TO7lqOwJerScdqB5Vpp4v26E/s320/Edited+-+2013-02-03+20.09.01.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I decapitated him back in February </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3KCT6Mk8CQU7uMWyuzy1sZKEbg2WLqXyj5AD8bchK_Fbpm2vNb2qSaSh-d2YzqfjDYmA3S4PUTXE9_v1g5JnotE-0qgXJdZBjCBlw8KwmL0DEfG8wfjNMuEkzrlh3Zq7FkdAXU4MU38/s1600/2013-05-30+15.45.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3KCT6Mk8CQU7uMWyuzy1sZKEbg2WLqXyj5AD8bchK_Fbpm2vNb2qSaSh-d2YzqfjDYmA3S4PUTXE9_v1g5JnotE-0qgXJdZBjCBlw8KwmL0DEfG8wfjNMuEkzrlh3Zq7FkdAXU4MU38/s640/2013-05-30+15.45.15.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The largest pup at the top of the plant is noticeably bigger everyday! <br />The lighter green cutting in the pot was a hitchhiker in a plant I bought at the greenhouse ;) </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8l1OCSHkEQpraoasYhL4uWNpaz4NljUFGCSH-OTtvbAG5enAVnq-eFU8ShY7hnaR1jPWW4JQLbU6xjZtreJg2sheABD2b5Kxe8bwo0t92NWZVH72oXY9GmgLKjPKzxjzOGRXGpb2Wfv0/s1600/2013-05-30+15.46.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8l1OCSHkEQpraoasYhL4uWNpaz4NljUFGCSH-OTtvbAG5enAVnq-eFU8ShY7hnaR1jPWW4JQLbU6xjZtreJg2sheABD2b5Kxe8bwo0t92NWZVH72oXY9GmgLKjPKzxjzOGRXGpb2Wfv0/s320/2013-05-30+15.46.25.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhff0-mhDda8_UPxJTa7Zrg7Fnd3OnYSPvP7msjEHXtpLHVaiPzW9C3x7-SsKUyE-00LhzFKlM7-0yDOynzyhzUAr9vwEw_3qAg6yfFfYlrUoSm1Qm6w_k-r_2-py2OvZnqnkc71gbV2T0/s1600/done.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhff0-mhDda8_UPxJTa7Zrg7Fnd3OnYSPvP7msjEHXtpLHVaiPzW9C3x7-SsKUyE-00LhzFKlM7-0yDOynzyhzUAr9vwEw_3qAg6yfFfYlrUoSm1Qm6w_k-r_2-py2OvZnqnkc71gbV2T0/s320/done.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another update to one of my plant babies is the "Obama cactus" which has grown about a 1/2 inch after being rooted back in November. Yay for Spring!!</div>
Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-72135379241724592922013-04-16T16:17:00.000-05:002013-04-16T16:17:03.988-05:00Jane of all Trades: New Recipe Edition<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6E7IOGmZFaikzyTBFIOWgnXt_4QMqdsoOLuY4NZtbNNVdSFv03q6erOue29LGAIsipEs-syxxdtxZ0AG7PmE-GkgICAQ90ILHogpZAYxB20Kq0qOUjQOLctc9WqxXBPFmMH1kXPEzuzk/s1600/2013-04-15+17.53.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6E7IOGmZFaikzyTBFIOWgnXt_4QMqdsoOLuY4NZtbNNVdSFv03q6erOue29LGAIsipEs-syxxdtxZ0AG7PmE-GkgICAQ90ILHogpZAYxB20Kq0qOUjQOLctc9WqxXBPFmMH1kXPEzuzk/s400/2013-04-15+17.53.19.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I thought I'd go all Martha Stewart on y'all and add a recipe aspect to my blog. I already post about home, crafts and plants, why not add cooking to the mix and make this a real domestic-diva situation.<br />
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To set this up, I have been a vegetarian for 10 years and subsequently developed a love of cooking. I make up a lot of my own recipes and devise all kinds of meatless and healthier versions of traditional comfort foods. For this post, I will share with you my newest creation: <span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">Healthier Mac n Cheese with Garlic-Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping and Roasted Tomatoes. </span><br />
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My secret weapon to make this classic dish a little lighter (it's still actually quite rich) is pureed cauliflower. It of course adds a little veggie action (good if you have picky kids), and it eliminates the need for milk/cream or a roux as it creates a thick, creamy base. Yay cauliflower!<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
1 package elbow macaroni<br />
3 tablespoons butter<br />
3 cups cauliflower florettes, cooked until very tender and pureed in food processor until smooth<br />
1 1/2 cups mild cheddar cheese<br />
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese<br />
1/2 teaspoon dried mustard<br />
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
freshly ground black pepper<br />
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For the breadcrumb topping, pulse 3 slices good-quality white bread in the food processor until fine. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in skillet and add breadcrumbs. Toast over medium heat until lightly golden. Finely chop or Microplane a clove of garlic and add to breadcrumbs along with some dried or fresh parsley and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Toast another minute and set aside.<br />
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Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just under al-dente. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water before draining.<br />
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In a large saucepan, melt the 3 tablespoons butter and add the pureed cauliflower, salt and pepper. When heated through, add the cheeses and spices. Stir until well combined, then add to cooked pasta along with a little of the pasta cooking water to further moisten.<br />
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Lightly butter a baking dish and evenly distribute the mac n cheese. Sprinkle on breadcrumb topping and bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or until the top is golden.<br />
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A nice side to my mac n cheese is some <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">roasted tomatoes</span>. To make them, slice 1 pint of cherry tomatoes in half and toss with a teaspoon of sugar, pinch of salt, and a splash of balsamic vinegar and drizzle of olive oil. Bake at 400 degrees until tender and juicy.<br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">Enjoy!</span><br />
<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-46155696289716699882013-04-13T08:49:00.000-05:002013-04-13T08:49:58.965-05:00Not Spring, but Happy Anyway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMl6gmUMMcsQxao4iOaXGmGToHvDa_DByHVeFKtDjgRq263V50IqaVyhx0yN66z5VR1PWdLzyQChpVlOnanLe5xIpReyFxXvTMgJvRV8Lmu7w9OWb2DB1ZJ53YhKHoBv_PHu6t25OsRHs/s1600/2013-04-13+08.19.21+-+Edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMl6gmUMMcsQxao4iOaXGmGToHvDa_DByHVeFKtDjgRq263V50IqaVyhx0yN66z5VR1PWdLzyQChpVlOnanLe5xIpReyFxXvTMgJvRV8Lmu7w9OWb2DB1ZJ53YhKHoBv_PHu6t25OsRHs/s320/2013-04-13+08.19.21+-+Edited.jpg" width="309" /></a></div>
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Well, I thought putting up a spring wreath outside (see last post) would somehow remind mother nature that we need some frickin' sunshine and warmth, but it didn't work. Regardless, I'm continuing to think positive and did a doodle on my kitchen chalkboard.<br />
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Thinking positive also means buying new plants. Last weekend we stopped at Lowe's and I picked up a couple beauties.<br />
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This may be an Adenium?<br />
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Rhipsalis "Mousetail" hanging basket. I have a beaded macrame hanger that will be perfect for this guy.<br />
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An absolutely perfect pairing. If this doesn't bring spring, nothing will.<br />
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Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-28652331762403699132013-03-31T20:00:00.000-05:002013-03-31T20:00:52.683-05:00Spring Craft Dyeing Easter eggs is a fun craft I've enjoyed every year since I was a kid. At 28, why stop now? While perusing various craft blogs and pinterest, I came across Ombre dyed eggs. Ombre is a fancy color-graded (from light to dark) technique that has become very popular. And it turns out to be very easy to do with eggs.<br />
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First, prepare your food color egg dye with only 2-4 tablespoons of water (you want the color to be very concentrated to start with). Then carefully place your hard-boiled egg in the color. I used a small spoon to help keep it upright. Let the egg sit for 5 minutes, then pour in a little water to raise the level of liquid no more than 1/2 way up the side of the egg. Wait 2-3 minutes then add another dose of water. Continue until the egg is completely submerged, then take it out of the liquid after no more than a minute.<br />
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My next project aims to jazz up a plain planter.<br />
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I found these fantastic plastic planters at Target. I grabbed a whole bunch of various sizes, knowing I could use them for re-potting my cacti and succulents.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZNBhBcmrH1HRQy8gJEp3We4W7WdeZTpnjjGpqfnm_ihXmmetnZHZJlix7XRlpe1edoqlvuSZeuH8Gei7wE9qJTbA1zWlxC9lDodqF4TxUauzLu3jSt2myzWhKCrSs_QiZ5Ojd68bPhk/s1600/2013-03-30+10.45.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZNBhBcmrH1HRQy8gJEp3We4W7WdeZTpnjjGpqfnm_ihXmmetnZHZJlix7XRlpe1edoqlvuSZeuH8Gei7wE9qJTbA1zWlxC9lDodqF4TxUauzLu3jSt2myzWhKCrSs_QiZ5Ojd68bPhk/s320/2013-03-30+10.45.23.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I love the modern look of white, but this big pot begged for a little color. With some painter's tape and newspaper, I masked off all but a strip at the top of the pot, which I spray-painted a nice dark orange.<br />
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Lovely!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgp0ROyu_KuzKjzH7vwe5VSxFBBWmnmnkfDca284EYk8Hp_E8IR3TsVG6R1VIl_asGmFIvgfNchm8ZsjpEUQheAAD_MhRHwR8oaxtVrTbYk6CnuDjYUK249t1K3nJF3apNH_oMahVkl8/s1600/2013-03-31+19.00.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgp0ROyu_KuzKjzH7vwe5VSxFBBWmnmnkfDca284EYk8Hp_E8IR3TsVG6R1VIl_asGmFIvgfNchm8ZsjpEUQheAAD_MhRHwR8oaxtVrTbYk6CnuDjYUK249t1K3nJF3apNH_oMahVkl8/s400/2013-03-31+19.00.50.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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To spruce up the front of the house, I fashioned this pretty, colorful and whimsical wreath, all with materials I had around the house.<br />
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Put a bird on it!Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-11520614516451706302013-03-18T16:30:00.000-05:002013-03-18T18:32:50.147-05:00Hip to be Square<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsEdX9t2eOvPicc0BVgf3hiy0nX3OBGKJDrSAbGgG96w3kKsE2eRAlZpPe21meAlyDMK3MRhxrr6WHzdOg5uPJOsFXcRy0wAil9gf0biMdHzdktBG4KSdjRKOCU3E7hj8VQqGrqk11UU/s1600/f18015680a47c95c6b5fd2e166d6f81c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsEdX9t2eOvPicc0BVgf3hiy0nX3OBGKJDrSAbGgG96w3kKsE2eRAlZpPe21meAlyDMK3MRhxrr6WHzdOg5uPJOsFXcRy0wAil9gf0biMdHzdktBG4KSdjRKOCU3E7hj8VQqGrqk11UU/s400/f18015680a47c95c6b5fd2e166d6f81c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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There once was a time when I was not a crazed succulent and planter-loving lunatic. But that was before I stumbled upon an article about Molly Quan in ReadyMade magazine. The piece featured her very cool, hip Portland home and revealed her love of cacti and succulents, as well as her shop Life+Limb (now defunct) a source for all things modern home and garden. </div>
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Not long after seeing this article, I visited a local greenhouse and bought my first succulent plant. I was instantly hooked, and simultaneously I was scouring thrift stores for pottery and planters similar to Molly's collection. I particularly was mesmerized by the aqua-glazed and textured pot in the photo above. </div>
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Years later, I still had not come across anything remotely similar to this object despite persistent questing. Until a couple weeks ago. </div>
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I was casually browsing the shelves of Goodwill, when, there at the very bottom was not one, but TWO pots remarkably similar to what I have been trying to find all this time. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhZ7aDkfttQyEh8g6oYwnce6iTGDMgCsKRPQ5YueZTmqI8T4pGxMv8_dc8qGwfGiBBURqWr9rjHfNHc1biAoq6FWLLSK3Qp-zF6v4Bx_DgQ3uB3ZHrbxD2k7wy-lYh7FvN_FzgLmOYqo/s1600/2013-03-18+10.39.51+-+Edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhZ7aDkfttQyEh8g6oYwnce6iTGDMgCsKRPQ5YueZTmqI8T4pGxMv8_dc8qGwfGiBBURqWr9rjHfNHc1biAoq6FWLLSK3Qp-zF6v4Bx_DgQ3uB3ZHrbxD2k7wy-lYh7FvN_FzgLmOYqo/s400/2013-03-18+10.39.51+-+Edited.jpg" width="258" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For full effect, you know I had to plant a plant in it like the one in the picture. </td></tr>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoimIpyXs_fPE9J6XNjTjk7EoDfXaLiQhs9ZhYwJSc5vhcyffIVMSC49CH3FYV8AMREXJ2k_IAZVsucWY3LXEgvCtWjvbMobbftU-AtsJUm80DM0aG9D21nJdVceeG-6ZaUvIk6CedQQY/s1600/2013-03-18+10.42.32+-+Edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoimIpyXs_fPE9J6XNjTjk7EoDfXaLiQhs9ZhYwJSc5vhcyffIVMSC49CH3FYV8AMREXJ2k_IAZVsucWY3LXEgvCtWjvbMobbftU-AtsJUm80DM0aG9D21nJdVceeG-6ZaUvIk6CedQQY/s400/2013-03-18+10.42.32+-+Edited.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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So, as if finding two of these beauties wasn't enough, I scored ANOTHER one yesterday for $5 at an antique store. This one is more the color of Molly's but it has a softer more finished texture. Please keep in mind I was not greedily seeking more of what I was already so lucky to have, but the universe kept throwing them at me and I couldn't not do it.... Yeah right, I snatched that pot up like a feral raccoon. </div>
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<br />Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-22048566836791090582013-02-25T10:10:00.000-06:002013-02-25T10:32:25.870-06:00Design Dreaming As you know, I have been trying to design and carry out plans for our upstairs and transform it into a warm and inviting master bedroom. I have a small chunk of the horrid pink walls painted a lovely sandy beige, but progress had been halted. Over the last week, we have purchased a beautiful bathroom vanity, uber-modern faucet, and white subway tile. I figured it is easiest to put up the wall tile before installing the vanity. After modifying the wall heating vent and ripping up a small portion of the floor, this bathroom project was clearly becoming a big one. But I'm thrilled and excited and motivated.<br />
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With this ever-expanding bathroom project, the upstairs plans have been put on hold. But I am eager as ever to tackle it. Here are my ideas:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.freshome.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/wood-ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="327" src="http://cdn.freshome.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/wood-ceiling.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image from: freshome.com<br />
This is color and feel I'm going for with the wood ceiling. </td></tr>
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While at our local home improvement store, I scoped out the laminate flooring options for the ceiling. There is major square footage to cover, so budget is very important. I found a medium-tone (not too dark) highly variegated option for like $1.50 per square foot. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlvjDHBRoZX8uSR9pwzqh04HxKdxq143N7KD_9IIxtXh6YNyNxKouAurDYJBpzYOAXhiEnNqtORho8BoHiK6N0-f29DSUzwsLqVKD9ksiz02O6sTVHs0lW1nJedOLTrR5dO0yZH00R7Pu/s1600/DSC05468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlvjDHBRoZX8uSR9pwzqh04HxKdxq143N7KD_9IIxtXh6YNyNxKouAurDYJBpzYOAXhiEnNqtORho8BoHiK6N0-f29DSUzwsLqVKD9ksiz02O6sTVHs0lW1nJedOLTrR5dO0yZH00R7Pu/s400/DSC05468.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from: the-brick-house.com</td></tr>
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The only lighting we have upstairs is a tiny wall sconce at the top of the stairs. For some romance and drama I want this sexy beast hanging above the stairs. </div>
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I OWN YOU!!!! Yes, I have had my heart set on this rug from World Market for several weeks. Last weekend was a 1/2 off sale so I splurged and it arrived Friday. I absolutely love it and I think it will provide a nice stepping-off point for the design of the rest of the room. Oh, and I think I got one of the last ones because it is no longer available online. I rule. </div>
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Ikea always has a way of elbowing in any budget-conscious home update. A simple, modern, low Malm bed would be perfect for our bedroom. They have a great new color option too: a medium walnut with a more prominent grain. <br />
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One of the last projects will be a divider to separate the closet area from the sleeping area. I really like this wood slat number, and it would be an easy DIY. Unlike these folding screens, I would do a permanent built-in screen, as we have sloping ceilings and a brick chimney smack in the middle. I like the slats because it would let light through from the window on the other side.<br />
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We're talking a lot of wood (part of the floor will also be wood/laminate or cork) warm colors and texture. With all the ideas and long wishlist I have, we may very well be still working on this next winter. </div>
Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-37399129628838108522013-02-10T08:53:00.000-06:002013-02-10T08:53:15.197-06:00Garden Expo 2013Under the cover of being a new homeowner planning garden and landscaping this spring and summer, I attended the garden expo here in Madison. But the true reason I went was to hunt down succulents. Now, before you roll your eyes and call me a crazed obsessive-compulsive, I did learn about leaf mulch compost, garden borders and I bought two really cool art-metal trellises. However, my eye was constantly roving for my true loves and I was not disappointed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwWNiHn3rStTQSfKHHXApxO99dZ67lQQ6PbTTUhu22-3w8PqhY80TvzB2r4BT6e2dKmTMkpq_lfhBaLyIX0Fbx6BHQfkcAzEF7AvV1qdnpcWkwJgytWRl44rPnEI6-4crqXIodXWAQUM/s1600/2013-02-09+13.25.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwWNiHn3rStTQSfKHHXApxO99dZ67lQQ6PbTTUhu22-3w8PqhY80TvzB2r4BT6e2dKmTMkpq_lfhBaLyIX0Fbx6BHQfkcAzEF7AvV1qdnpcWkwJgytWRl44rPnEI6-4crqXIodXWAQUM/s320/2013-02-09+13.25.12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I almost bought one of these purple/black beauties but held off until we had seen everything.<br />
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Firesticks. I can't believe I don't have one of these.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWOrO7o3GfpUz7MrsdsSAiF_yJQHxjdd8rP1mmnUOFw04X7EY51GckIF4s_onw0VxVQrurYzJx4jI6Gvhcsi7tuPzy5FtCPXnRRiLF1xwBc0I3BJPGmYm4Oc4XqKOuNTJMbWI95PpOR8/s1600/2013-02-09+15.15.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWOrO7o3GfpUz7MrsdsSAiF_yJQHxjdd8rP1mmnUOFw04X7EY51GckIF4s_onw0VxVQrurYzJx4jI6Gvhcsi7tuPzy5FtCPXnRRiLF1xwBc0I3BJPGmYm4Oc4XqKOuNTJMbWI95PpOR8/s320/2013-02-09+15.15.15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
There was a whole bunch of really nice (and expensive) mini succulent gardens. Don't you love the carved stone owls?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdl0P6ytv0RnEv5JOzYepK8VdHNcpZIevmTnufZcwcRUrXeYbPm7mMDk8MREyetgSDNH5Qp_0psmOvVp-jeBmSOS5Y1utcW_IqCI3drEboCLkR-DvP0t0jjOnp5-cdAqyM_BpCrlGPuM/s1600/2013-02-09+15.15.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdl0P6ytv0RnEv5JOzYepK8VdHNcpZIevmTnufZcwcRUrXeYbPm7mMDk8MREyetgSDNH5Qp_0psmOvVp-jeBmSOS5Y1utcW_IqCI3drEboCLkR-DvP0t0jjOnp5-cdAqyM_BpCrlGPuM/s320/2013-02-09+15.15.26.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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While stopped in front of a booth selling siding or windows or driveway pavers, I happened to look down and see a little oasis of slightly sad-looking potted aloes. But I freaked when I noticed the Epiphyllum among them. The $4 price tag made the decision easy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMen5OHvDn4OzuyVGfHi2TzVswa4NM4aVPOCNSQoajgpqsGGWwisNYbb72XqUQIO1ZhyHfY4l9b7xJ1BLx9afNe7ckJC_NkIRbeaH3L-tjyDoC3MlpJUBCgdtQgsSRd38CI8WmGlvbPM/s1600/Edited+-+2013-02-10+07.54.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMen5OHvDn4OzuyVGfHi2TzVswa4NM4aVPOCNSQoajgpqsGGWwisNYbb72XqUQIO1ZhyHfY4l9b7xJ1BLx9afNe7ckJC_NkIRbeaH3L-tjyDoC3MlpJUBCgdtQgsSRd38CI8WmGlvbPM/s400/Edited+-+2013-02-10+07.54.06.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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She needs a little TLC--some pruning, a re-pot and a good watering, but I couldn't be happier. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSHnQZXqUmTzJFwWyn67oVQfBCx7y5Lyuc1RAEaMTrk-gMNGYiYvoksWxhiiIo9Qtcpv-AM39jGJ3jCr2b6Dsua6Z1G369sQMR_cPYM9fo9mUEToiOA-xXH3aWgTby1ci9vw6NVSoGPDI/s1600/Edited+-+2013-02-10+07.54.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSHnQZXqUmTzJFwWyn67oVQfBCx7y5Lyuc1RAEaMTrk-gMNGYiYvoksWxhiiIo9Qtcpv-AM39jGJ3jCr2b6Dsua6Z1G369sQMR_cPYM9fo9mUEToiOA-xXH3aWgTby1ci9vw6NVSoGPDI/s400/Edited+-+2013-02-10+07.54.28.jpg" width="347" /></a></div>
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Check out the cool woody stems. It's probably a cutting off a much larger, old plant.Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-30656978504176338902013-02-05T21:46:00.001-06:002013-02-07T14:54:27.611-06:00DECAPITATED!My 3-year old Euphorbia Trigona cutting has been doing extremely well, growing over an inch taller just this last summer alone. However, it became obvious that the lower section was not growing and the plant was becoming top-heavy. So, nervously, I decided to cut off the robust growth at the top of the plant in hopes it will root and continue to grow, while the bottom part will sprout new off-shoots.<br />
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Here's my illustration of the situation:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqHUb7T4f0kAdkd7pfbag5_qhwxZ-WTWZ3W7fRI5et3fbKRnxZJQUuNGwya_pvQCU-NJfzy6oUatTBXwumJ9WvfGInO8S0oh-4DXQhBZQVq87MQkwyUtsxYrbp0b0COliWRdMwtTkbI_0/s1600/Edited+-+2013-02-05+20.35.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqHUb7T4f0kAdkd7pfbag5_qhwxZ-WTWZ3W7fRI5et3fbKRnxZJQUuNGwya_pvQCU-NJfzy6oUatTBXwumJ9WvfGInO8S0oh-4DXQhBZQVq87MQkwyUtsxYrbp0b0COliWRdMwtTkbI_0/s320/Edited+-+2013-02-05+20.35.11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I'm a nerd. Get over it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSZQ-tggycvzGzyP3qyZCpZMJof4nE3FIt49AkyQ0AfPWn40WD9KbXJdzgvByous-kY94IEGKwMHLr-V0Ic9soMtRThGM1V3JYgfNVk1QutswfDk_TFY1_y1JjnbgkWwTntU-JjROZ9A/s1600/Edited+-+2013-02-03+20.06.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSZQ-tggycvzGzyP3qyZCpZMJof4nE3FIt49AkyQ0AfPWn40WD9KbXJdzgvByous-kY94IEGKwMHLr-V0Ic9soMtRThGM1V3JYgfNVk1QutswfDk_TFY1_y1JjnbgkWwTntU-JjROZ9A/s320/Edited+-+2013-02-03+20.06.44.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I was pleasantly surprised to see healthy roots which had filled much of the pot. <br />
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Scalpel...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizOhouLWaZuRU-pqmc8D_XuyhGCKp_5i1ccWi1zyNNgl5lJ_TOHJnhspdwBVRj_j5_rImyaxtidSlmPeSniFSaxBnH60AG2sP4K91vH95hFI16Zx4v-vwhXPcLbuaIS_e6aN46qOgMZ7M/s1600/Edited+-+2013-02-03+20.07.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizOhouLWaZuRU-pqmc8D_XuyhGCKp_5i1ccWi1zyNNgl5lJ_TOHJnhspdwBVRj_j5_rImyaxtidSlmPeSniFSaxBnH60AG2sP4K91vH95hFI16Zx4v-vwhXPcLbuaIS_e6aN46qOgMZ7M/s320/Edited+-+2013-02-03+20.07.22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4CAIZ_JU8ej_eQWwUC-OmQMwTZ2oeUMd9aWpx5-bZQYtbUA53-qTZKuXphfURleyRBumknIPLz1i4OvQ4wt3lkbTuo3I-pNC9N8db2drzf7HUChW_O2TO7lqOwJerScdqB5Vpp4v26E/s1600/Edited+-+2013-02-03+20.09.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4CAIZ_JU8ej_eQWwUC-OmQMwTZ2oeUMd9aWpx5-bZQYtbUA53-qTZKuXphfURleyRBumknIPLz1i4OvQ4wt3lkbTuo3I-pNC9N8db2drzf7HUChW_O2TO7lqOwJerScdqB5Vpp4v26E/s320/Edited+-+2013-02-03+20.09.01.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
If you have the good fortune to own any of the varied and diverse members of the Euphorbia family, do be careful, as they will seep a white liquid if cut which can be irritating to the skin and toxic if ingested.<br />
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The bottom portion of the plant got repotted in a larger container with fresh soil. The top part will be left to dry and heal over before getting his own pot or joining his mother in her new pot.<br />
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Based on how fast this plant has grown in the last year, I am hoping he will look like this soon:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1BqOYQ-pddY7w_8hJ7DIZvA4lvz51UExu_Z7SKIEcZZKTSfFIbBA8X-buXwUW7eMZzji1KLZXB5E0eGaqZi9FhiQI_IQARvfsV3yDIpaWOBuEDTFsN20jI4wZlzo46H5PT7eRbkdZxY/s1600/Edited+-+2013-02-07+14.14.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1BqOYQ-pddY7w_8hJ7DIZvA4lvz51UExu_Z7SKIEcZZKTSfFIbBA8X-buXwUW7eMZzji1KLZXB5E0eGaqZi9FhiQI_IQARvfsV3yDIpaWOBuEDTFsN20jI4wZlzo46H5PT7eRbkdZxY/s320/Edited+-+2013-02-07+14.14.19.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from here: http://onthewildslopes.tumblr.com/post/42213704895<br /></td></tr>
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<br />Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-23329664014143159852013-01-24T20:10:00.000-06:002013-01-24T20:16:08.371-06:00Plant Stuff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS-EPj0OOC2Z3VxTLEFabW8RDfxQrTB2bnOsVBRRV_TmJH5KsTI-mCYesMZ0ZRYRHKFVKyq8PX_yVs1GrxPvEiUFDKJ08gdwUCDNebQJB-Il31y6DQ_CHMkZ7jxNwxwtW5YNrjIzIfP68/s1600/Edited+-+2013-01-24+14.13.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS-EPj0OOC2Z3VxTLEFabW8RDfxQrTB2bnOsVBRRV_TmJH5KsTI-mCYesMZ0ZRYRHKFVKyq8PX_yVs1GrxPvEiUFDKJ08gdwUCDNebQJB-Il31y6DQ_CHMkZ7jxNwxwtW5YNrjIzIfP68/s640/Edited+-+2013-01-24+14.13.45.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I got a head start on plant tinkering. I know it's the middle of winter and most my plants are in hibernation, blah blah...but the days are getting longer and I'm a glass-half-full kind of gal. To start, I divided up my spiny aloe (above). The thing grows in crazy clumps and thought it would look really beautiful by its lonesome. Mission accomplished. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7LCkFWqc78VQu8T4ACQ2JsoH6jy6ZwNSj9hCFza_0k7hq62Yz03sEE_de-q4iBJ1kEcfwkdtyNC1HeWGybM9YyL-K6ep26WYG2kgCj-z0Dd8bJRRQHM-hhyphenhyphenYJuVObyiItP8386Sukhs/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7LCkFWqc78VQu8T4ACQ2JsoH6jy6ZwNSj9hCFza_0k7hq62Yz03sEE_de-q4iBJ1kEcfwkdtyNC1HeWGybM9YyL-K6ep26WYG2kgCj-z0Dd8bJRRQHM-hhyphenhyphenYJuVObyiItP8386Sukhs/s400/Edited+-+DSC08879.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I found this Arabia metallic black pottery planter recently. I wish I could say the cactus (Cholla??) was not new, but it is. <br />
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I've been working at my Jade bonsai. This is probably my neatest, best-kept plant. For a long time, it was bushy with clumpy masses of leaves everywhere. After a serious pruning last summer and periodic plucking, it is looking quite beautiful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGG8DHx9W4AZv5cLlyMzpa-M__ErMacTPcM17wxoNCHbklOlo67xHiX3W1W15pgZKKKJNSs2xrWF4uYQi52POxm7xCDS0309TSrA-EBkDYpLVcwJyA2I-uuiPGWx7_rf1b2cWO7IZDMfU/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_Jl2omdcXzrcZk5qfn0WeYIJ3UrysJWdBnkPX9QGzkkoNxtkfVp0VD_bFTam8vWY_zc7s77x0NeLQjedUhnESWIRt4h4RD-aqa0AF7kDP2WrhcBl9IySGV2v7W8s9z-lkIelJ73mUPs/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_Jl2omdcXzrcZk5qfn0WeYIJ3UrysJWdBnkPX9QGzkkoNxtkfVp0VD_bFTam8vWY_zc7s77x0NeLQjedUhnESWIRt4h4RD-aqa0AF7kDP2WrhcBl9IySGV2v7W8s9z-lkIelJ73mUPs/s400/Edited+-+DSC08881.JPG" width="400" /></a><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGG8DHx9W4AZv5cLlyMzpa-M__ErMacTPcM17wxoNCHbklOlo67xHiX3W1W15pgZKKKJNSs2xrWF4uYQi52POxm7xCDS0309TSrA-EBkDYpLVcwJyA2I-uuiPGWx7_rf1b2cWO7IZDMfU/s400/Edited+-+DSC08885.JPG" width="300" /></div>
Instead of using my adorable metal snail votive holder for it's intended purpose, I stuck an air plant in him! In love. <br />
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My Etsy shop will be back up and running in the next week or so. Here's a teaser:</div>
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Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-64728496060955991962013-01-05T11:45:00.000-06:002013-01-05T11:46:47.904-06:00New Year, New Projects <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been terrible about keeping up with my blog--apologies and excuses. Anyway, as much as Matt and I have accomplished on our house (see past posts) there's more! Our priority has been getting the living areas livable and saving the upstairs master bedroom for this very moment. Exciting, I know. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We've broken the project down in 3 parts. 3 parts in 3 months. Sounds do-able. First is to paint. Call me crazy, but the pink is quite ugly. We've chosen a nice </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">earth-tone</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> which will be a welcome change to the all-white downstairs. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirF98jg4WNkusQASWnyIYHqsnWlckzuczD6ecxAFuxbgq_F4MDjnrTVpvFPhaBAbo9hT0TgH8fS5mdMMyl7rMNvyy8PvoQdnkreOuQRNwjECy8rRjpM7yip-4OemI3Ni8Tf_XVWRleYR8/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirF98jg4WNkusQASWnyIYHqsnWlckzuczD6ecxAFuxbgq_F4MDjnrTVpvFPhaBAbo9hT0TgH8fS5mdMMyl7rMNvyy8PvoQdnkreOuQRNwjECy8rRjpM7yip-4OemI3Ni8Tf_XVWRleYR8/s320/Edited+-+DSC08718.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtAW07OBXByaUoO289F5zVidsDLFiNo_HJLHL58VywrTPKv_oJm5DZcmizUPxYXLpkcRUguVM0-_iiJQkNrEW_oSTLfwmw5T_xRXnsOqzZ-XUCfptZjkAccBoRxiE8UH2gkxQM0SdRV5A/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtAW07OBXByaUoO289F5zVidsDLFiNo_HJLHL58VywrTPKv_oJm5DZcmizUPxYXLpkcRUguVM0-_iiJQkNrEW_oSTLfwmw5T_xRXnsOqzZ-XUCfptZjkAccBoRxiE8UH2gkxQM0SdRV5A/s320/Edited+-+DSC08721.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Part 2 will be to remove the horrid ceiling tiles and replace them with some type of wood. We'll know when we see it, but I'm thinking some kind of salvaged hardwood. We're going for a very warm, architectural- modern feel. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwU6z26mS_8_jVwGled-D0ZPytGA68JmQ7Vp3KGER_fOs66-IDVF88RxYEM1heTniRNYpMlFkr9w92Vgvwov-DYVtFApGAPSlI2-0qXZS7cKYMePh6P8rd05DsN2bs4A1fSzRZO8Rg99Q/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwU6z26mS_8_jVwGled-D0ZPytGA68JmQ7Vp3KGER_fOs66-IDVF88RxYEM1heTniRNYpMlFkr9w92Vgvwov-DYVtFApGAPSlI2-0qXZS7cKYMePh6P8rd05DsN2bs4A1fSzRZO8Rg99Q/s320/Edited+-+DSC08722.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finally, if all goes to plan, new flooring will go in. 2/3 of the large room will serve as sleeping and closet area while the front 1/3 will be a place for low book cases and a reading nook. We will delineate these spaces with a low-pile carpet in the bedroom area and a cork or hardwood in the lounge area. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZU2IWYo5V68SjNRkXrJbLuQRm2Hsl6pMB1V8jiDJadtgGVz3mrWkRtu1GRVAOackjBXbHXPDqDV8n2XYSb8dMOTEkci3EKdlQaV6BubCF67fpQ3Rwvrk69f1gJVSc0RxSPwwg74tvNKA/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZU2IWYo5V68SjNRkXrJbLuQRm2Hsl6pMB1V8jiDJadtgGVz3mrWkRtu1GRVAOackjBXbHXPDqDV8n2XYSb8dMOTEkci3EKdlQaV6BubCF67fpQ3Rwvrk69f1gJVSc0RxSPwwg74tvNKA/s320/Edited+-+DSC08719.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last will be finishing touches like putting in baseboards, trim around the windows and something to separate the closet from the bedroom, like a Shoji screen or more bookcases. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4f7gEbAlTTqwzTyVm_v57PmIr-GCHWagATz7waCeWO8dlaYHrzLZnZCSwIs5eOUXeSgiQ4vCufoIBUZKTPAAwzSYViTO9TiUUMyh2gK6PLbJy1hwVyc0VoPAnhnKNod7LRy8gYu2Za5o/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4f7gEbAlTTqwzTyVm_v57PmIr-GCHWagATz7waCeWO8dlaYHrzLZnZCSwIs5eOUXeSgiQ4vCufoIBUZKTPAAwzSYViTO9TiUUMyh2gK6PLbJy1hwVyc0VoPAnhnKNod7LRy8gYu2Za5o/s320/Edited+-+DSC08720.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The area to the right of the chimney will serve as a spacious <br />
walk-in closet.<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I almost forgot the chimney. After painting and before doing the ceiling, we have plans to knock off the drywall covering the chimney to expose the brick underneath. Why cover real brick with fake, I will never understand. Depending on what it looks like, I'd like to paint the brick white. What? I love white. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Overall, I expect the upstairs to be fairly easy compared to the rest of the house. We don't have floors to refinish, endless hours of paining, and disgusting messes to clean up. Just installing NEW stuff. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ok, that was a lot of ugly you had to look at. Here are some nice things to soothe your eyeballs.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dcvBoYgHgVPCACDzx8zI2nEGL_WK7klN-tjVwyq_KM0IqU8WnIyJYIM4vVSAD7omglKIeOtNw1FyoTRlRGqqVTY6vDZy23HEV4NKgGRYHwl5wEfC4nTvs9W7MOSG2I-LEJHGWBEsT8Y/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dcvBoYgHgVPCACDzx8zI2nEGL_WK7klN-tjVwyq_KM0IqU8WnIyJYIM4vVSAD7omglKIeOtNw1FyoTRlRGqqVTY6vDZy23HEV4NKgGRYHwl5wEfC4nTvs9W7MOSG2I-LEJHGWBEsT8Y/s400/Edited+-+DSC08841.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This may be my favorite little corner of the house. I have two epiphitic cacti hanging<br />
in a bright window over the kitchen table along with our perfect pendant lamp <br />
and my beloved "yarn painting"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1W3hVf-nKxrsOhFj1oXs8JEG_sa_bUIxFQiJXtCD32fSgGkw3yDhn8bLZ_u5W8161hypke1FFOJ4-SCGqqBxEMW2VasopxRbEUwh5D5W96hldFl_ZpeBkt6Dc3QAlrzWr14UVa94q2Y/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1W3hVf-nKxrsOhFj1oXs8JEG_sa_bUIxFQiJXtCD32fSgGkw3yDhn8bLZ_u5W8161hypke1FFOJ4-SCGqqBxEMW2VasopxRbEUwh5D5W96hldFl_ZpeBkt6Dc3QAlrzWr14UVa94q2Y/s400/Edited+-+DSC08846.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kitchen cabinets look amazing with my DIY handles. </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn099ON0s7Kt9poANEqBU-8gtzRypBznDN8W6h3L3iXSpVTM9qHyGCnzrrKr-FNkHOC59Kh96ULXjbaMFrdRaAbaDYoz7WaCyoAnDN-DnV-FQ302DU928y0riDxE0E81kdeA_8x3x3Pvw/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn099ON0s7Kt9poANEqBU-8gtzRypBznDN8W6h3L3iXSpVTM9qHyGCnzrrKr-FNkHOC59Kh96ULXjbaMFrdRaAbaDYoz7WaCyoAnDN-DnV-FQ302DU928y0riDxE0E81kdeA_8x3x3Pvw/s400/Edited+-+DSC08862.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eames chair deserves its own nook</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2pN2xWM9wsW6qJllRhhxw_4WZbrdoI7vdwdoqgLZ9RD38odCXzQIF5zyUSqMJKf7Hogru-lUQ4-vFqc13DIa-_2nqvJ4oUT_MEqTsFqsBlOh7WkvsGSbR1pMIsr2kR1rUYh2IJuye7Dk/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2pN2xWM9wsW6qJllRhhxw_4WZbrdoI7vdwdoqgLZ9RD38odCXzQIF5zyUSqMJKf7Hogru-lUQ4-vFqc13DIa-_2nqvJ4oUT_MEqTsFqsBlOh7WkvsGSbR1pMIsr2kR1rUYh2IJuye7Dk/s400/Edited+-+DSC08861.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've discovered that hanging a small textile on the sides of<br />
our Ikea Expedit bookcases adds so much warmth and texture<br />
to the whole thing. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlaxGrNxDcG4hbmK6Zo2lLiR5rIyaUemXZxuyfsqVo2RTwE8nSZU3RP-yd-V59d04e1B-pSUWTcIBR4NKfcrGo2RPbL8vkOFx6J5O9Aln591u5KdOGFX_ak12gUc_WJEkho4O8kJfCj4/s1600/Edited+-+DSC08845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlaxGrNxDcG4hbmK6Zo2lLiR5rIyaUemXZxuyfsqVo2RTwE8nSZU3RP-yd-V59d04e1B-pSUWTcIBR4NKfcrGo2RPbL8vkOFx6J5O9Aln591u5KdOGFX_ak12gUc_WJEkho4O8kJfCj4/s400/Edited+-+DSC08845.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I found this hand-woven trivet at a thrift store (shocking, I know). It adds<br />
nice visual interest above the sink. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-57926163114019707722012-11-11T16:28:00.000-06:002012-11-11T16:28:56.243-06:00Cactus cuttings 101<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Crazy cactus lady strikes again! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Three years ago, I plucked a tiny euphorbia trigona stem from a gorgeous specimen in a catholic church (sinner!!) after my nephew was baptized. I couldn't help myself! Now that little cutting is 5" tall and on its way to greatness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last Tuesday while casting my ballot for Obama, I spotted a potted Opuntia Elata giving a valiant effort to thrive in a cramped corner (right next to the heat vent, poor thing) of the school library. I quietly wandered over to it and gently snapped off one of its larger pups. Stealing property from an official voting place? Probably illegal, but that's how hard-core I am. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It seems as though I know what I am doing in the stolen-cactus-cutting department, so here are some tips if you aren't exactly well versed in the subject, and want to grow some free plants. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First, let your cutting dry in a warm, bright spot where it won't be disturbed for at least 2 days and up to a week on a clean, dry surface like a towel. This will help the cut end heal over and give the plant the best chance to root. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next, find or buy a small 2" terra cotta pot and place a scrap of paper (I like unbleached coffee filters or newspaper) over the hole in the bottom to prevent your soil mixture from leaking out. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyvb38m0TgEhdktKBoJtXWGxsx9MqIXYzaOnQVePg5H5OCxTVJMVQowePpm7ICWTAzZC_PlvSYfz00AxAKPuk5mZlSEFROPeqZlVjcgpEOrlq1b72XzuuLiJrs4xlVnuu6ZBNaqHBnQE/s1600/pot1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyvb38m0TgEhdktKBoJtXWGxsx9MqIXYzaOnQVePg5H5OCxTVJMVQowePpm7ICWTAzZC_PlvSYfz00AxAKPuk5mZlSEFROPeqZlVjcgpEOrlq1b72XzuuLiJrs4xlVnuu6ZBNaqHBnQE/s320/pot1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For cacti and succulent cuttings, your soil mixture should consist of about 50% sandy gravel and 50% store-bought cactus potting mix. The gravel and sand will help improve drainage so the cutting does not rot, and the soil provides nutrients. If your mixture is very dry, lightly spritz it with water to moisten. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lightly pack the mixture into your pot, leaving about 1/2" from the top. Using a wooden skewer or pencil, make a shallow hole big enough for the base of the cutting. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UmxJMDtRNNtpYUxTQGtgE063dAnXIh1wpeHj88OHxxXj-vdvUrGSyJuYb9_WOxOYVwKgEQsTge1NQcmFnfUEcTwFafnxqHjDpllFt6MIXXpEK9XxrPtY83FLKPDvo_e6EQU1ivvVocI/s1600/planting.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UmxJMDtRNNtpYUxTQGtgE063dAnXIh1wpeHj88OHxxXj-vdvUrGSyJuYb9_WOxOYVwKgEQsTge1NQcmFnfUEcTwFafnxqHjDpllFt6MIXXpEK9XxrPtY83FLKPDvo_e6EQU1ivvVocI/s320/planting.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Place the cutting (cut side down) into the hole far enough </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I like to use a fine gravel (found at any garden center) topdressing for my cuttings to help prop them up and wick away moisture from the base of the plant. If your soil mix is sufficiently moist, you can wait to water your cutting until a few days after to ensure it will not rot. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Place your new plant in a warm spot with sufficient natural light and it should root within a couple weeks. Don't be alarmed if the little guy starts to shrivel, he will plump up once his roots start to develop. My cactus cutting will be babied for the next 2-3 years, until I'm sure it is well-established and likes what I'm doing for it. </span><br />
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<br />Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-49379578902402788152012-10-27T17:19:00.000-05:002012-10-27T17:28:17.930-05:00Grow!<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Surveying my large plant collection, I got to thinking about the upcoming winter and the dismal lack of sunlight we get here in Wisconsin. It is apparent I do not have enough window real estate to satisfactorily sustain my brood. So, my next option seemed to be grow lights. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRoH9X2r_WQYei6ywsH8Q0FW0HliZNI5al6Ti-FIdmjUhT8E_sthGb5QBJ97LKAQORCIDHtxtf6JuS-X4oVCb88V05supRgQNxWc8TlpgvtK5Ny2ScsqJ0HwSLRw1-vnoF2Ge251dIWRk/s1600/2012-10-27+10.24.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRoH9X2r_WQYei6ywsH8Q0FW0HliZNI5al6Ti-FIdmjUhT8E_sthGb5QBJ97LKAQORCIDHtxtf6JuS-X4oVCb88V05supRgQNxWc8TlpgvtK5Ny2ScsqJ0HwSLRw1-vnoF2Ge251dIWRk/s320/2012-10-27+10.24.37.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I got myself to Menards (our local home-improvement store) and bought two full-spectrum 60-Watt light bulbs and two clamp lamps and voila! grow light central. The beautiful shelves you see in the photo below were newly installed in my studio the day before. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrigrMHc5oPBRKoGGwAdxoh1GrNo_GCX0VGkUOBeWPXP5Jv5NqBlq_QsI92H8DUgvneX63WYn3uwOgpDym9oj88cUiAjpbSHUx6_eCyiluT4nyVnDDzNlmmUvTgWC5CCCFK8cG1iUrbpg/s1600/2012-10-27+10.25.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrigrMHc5oPBRKoGGwAdxoh1GrNo_GCX0VGkUOBeWPXP5Jv5NqBlq_QsI92H8DUgvneX63WYn3uwOgpDym9oj88cUiAjpbSHUx6_eCyiluT4nyVnDDzNlmmUvTgWC5CCCFK8cG1iUrbpg/s320/2012-10-27+10.25.14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I had two nifty wooden wine crates laying around which became the surface for the plants to sit on, and also holds such plant-growing necessities as watering cans, fertilizer, soil and gravel. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3Ig3IJfBZvP6dmNRCTHBSAPcD2fskRrXM6UmDjGVB3fjUhDB-4_1sLfygyLepwFmxMQr-swwllbelEAacB6Ec9pQa6bxHO-QLSdy1nLiTnZVdfE1tkMPS550VvqzhL4dTpBhsp8whXo/s1600/2012-10-27+10.25.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3Ig3IJfBZvP6dmNRCTHBSAPcD2fskRrXM6UmDjGVB3fjUhDB-4_1sLfygyLepwFmxMQr-swwllbelEAacB6Ec9pQa6bxHO-QLSdy1nLiTnZVdfE1tkMPS550VvqzhL4dTpBhsp8whXo/s320/2012-10-27+10.25.36.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I think it looks like a lovely little oasis. I hope this helps my plants thrive a bit more over the long winter. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">P.S. this is only a small fraction of my entire collection. So what? It's not a problem if you can admit to it...</span>Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-10904228640935395842012-09-12T18:02:00.000-05:002012-09-13T19:24:51.887-05:00Matt and Bobbie's House::::::: Part 2:::::::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU4VU3xkCR3KHLmR4eGsMR0fAU6zZ5dJkT_1atViq3Z96GamftayV9JWzQcNAflaDNGkrckYptoSh4Z7DzIcfre1L9YbMgOXh8Pd-eChbOKc7Crzbyuqx2xwuJ02siR9iswlML2GgIS4Q/s1600/livingroom+before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU4VU3xkCR3KHLmR4eGsMR0fAU6zZ5dJkT_1atViq3Z96GamftayV9JWzQcNAflaDNGkrckYptoSh4Z7DzIcfre1L9YbMgOXh8Pd-eChbOKc7Crzbyuqx2xwuJ02siR9iswlML2GgIS4Q/s320/livingroom+before.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">BEFORE: the living room wasn't in real dire need of rehab, but the sloppy paint job, dirty & rusted vents, pheasant and evergreen light switch covers, and old front door begged for some love. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeMJ_cfCA5Hk_VRaTptKp6C-gl1cZsnsUXLstK5fOUybOsO4JiQSTrJ1q1uoa12pE0g7mfGVBO3u3ra-wGHAUSq5N5Mw5W9bhgYX4S1uDT9W7qrA0pKPkmZnSU48pS1ikM6QSK_EFDBP4/s1600/livingroom+before2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeMJ_cfCA5Hk_VRaTptKp6C-gl1cZsnsUXLstK5fOUybOsO4JiQSTrJ1q1uoa12pE0g7mfGVBO3u3ra-wGHAUSq5N5Mw5W9bhgYX4S1uDT9W7qrA0pKPkmZnSU48pS1ikM6QSK_EFDBP4/s320/livingroom+before2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had new doors and windows installed throughout the house which helped matters immensely. Some nice bright white paint freshened things up and we spray-painted all the vents. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGw8npgYSqy7E2gVUZifH9v6IAGQ24qNH9YA7CkPZjSJFnp64E_Q6PLOpkg6mRztSu-KYtcjypqp7ju_9Yp30HxnBs2loKg6cHXIs12xMoSxGHra7zTqP_onugZvNyWzE00kmJirHBoU/s1600/livingroom+now1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGw8npgYSqy7E2gVUZifH9v6IAGQ24qNH9YA7CkPZjSJFnp64E_Q6PLOpkg6mRztSu-KYtcjypqp7ju_9Yp30HxnBs2loKg6cHXIs12xMoSxGHra7zTqP_onugZvNyWzE00kmJirHBoU/s320/livingroom+now1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is this the same place? Hard to believe, I know. The hardwood floors through the whole house were worn and dirty. Step one was to rent a floor cleaner (a small version of what janitors use on gym floors) with a scrubbing pad and along with some hot water and special cleaner, we got these babies clean in one day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Step two was to sand lightly with a small hand-held power sander to even out the surface and remove superficial marks and scratches. We could have used a large floor sander, but didn't want to ruin the floors since we hardly knew what we were doing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Step three: apply one even coat of Golden Pecan Minwax stain. I was amazed by how the stain brought out the character in the wood and just made it glow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once the stain was completely dry (I waited 24 hours to be sure) two coats of polyurethane went on to seal and protect and give even more silky glow and gorgeousness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hmmm...I don't remember that sofa from before. That's because I just bought it! Yes, it hung 3 feet out the back of the Jeep, tied in with 10 feet of rope but I would have carried it on my back if I had to. For $100 at the thrift store, it is exactly what I have dreamed of finding for our new house. It had some ugly brown wood arms but a quick swipe with my jigsaw and they were adios. Hello, gorgeous. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Our Expedit now serves as room divider so the front door is not as visible from the living area. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> The once-pink guest room now looks fresh and delicious. There are still lots of things to unpack, including art, so the pretty white walls remain blank. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the air return vent in the hallway. Completely coated in a thick layer of dust. Enter ShopVac and spray paint. Fixed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will be sharing more as we get more done and continue to have fun with our home. There is an entire upstairs we have grand plans for, as well as the bathroom and my studio. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I would be remiss not to mention and thank those who have been generous with their time and helped us immensely. My sister put it several solid weekend's worth of work getting a lot of painting done (which I soon grew too tired of), along with my mom who labored over the filthy bathroom floor and in the yard chopping down a forest's worth of weed trees. My amazing in- laws have been more than generous working on anything and everything we needed help with, as well as a much-appreciated shopping spree at Menards. We are so lucky to have our amazing family. Love you guys, and "thanks" is never enough!!</span>Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-14415411958018734172012-09-12T16:57:00.000-05:002012-09-24T08:25:15.355-05:00Matt and Bobbie's House<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What an adventure the last 3 months have been. We now inhabit our very own home! It's an amazing feeling and I can't believe everything we've done to get to this point... The house hunt began early this spring and after looking at numerous foreclosures with crumbling foundations in questionable neighborhoods, we found our gem. She met every point on our wishlist: 3 bedrooms, charm & character, small yard, basement & garage, hardwood floors with lots of windows in a great area of town. We quickly put an offer in and soon after it was accepted. Then the hard part came. We spent weeks and weeks dealing with our lender getting through the rigmarole and red tape of a renovation loan on top of a first-time home buyer's mortgage. So, after pushing the closing date back about 3 times (and having the seller threaten to pull out of the deal), we finally got the keys. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The house has great solid bones, but needed a lot of updating and TLC. Let's start with the kitchen, shall we? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">BEFORE: Lots and lots of very badly applied yellow paint. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> The cabinets are Harrison metal cabinets, most likely original to the house c. 1950. What ever will I do with these....? Stay tuned. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4utcgLK5brx0DeGVv0ursG_I6mnO2kEN4E-ayO_cBSDRFKtV44UwiyGVMVYV6JGYZroMgd0OnbuPRTtPYJM9e-VER_3LiTNIGfjBnyrbgbbX0TMobO5ZzUAW1DKiqQaJ7Ju6Rqex0Dug/s1600/kitchen+before4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4utcgLK5brx0DeGVv0ursG_I6mnO2kEN4E-ayO_cBSDRFKtV44UwiyGVMVYV6JGYZroMgd0OnbuPRTtPYJM9e-VER_3LiTNIGfjBnyrbgbbX0TMobO5ZzUAW1DKiqQaJ7Ju6Rqex0Dug/s320/kitchen+before4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> One thing we quite liked was the faux brick back-splash behind the sink. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> But it needed some help. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More yellow in the dining area.The windows were also very decrepit and barely opened. Note the cute milk door which we will keep as a nod to the era the house was built. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I originally wanted to take down all the cabinets and put up some simple open shelves. Matt talked me out of it, and so began the long arduous task of making over the lovely rusted, filthy metal cupboards and doors. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Choosing the paint colors early on gave me the motivation to see this project through.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Like I said, these babies were disgusting. That is indeed rust you see beneath the sink, and I was even lucky enough to find some mouse poop in one of the drawers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dinner party, anyone?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I spent hours and hours scrubbing, priming and painting the cabinets. We did take down one section to make room for the stove and fridge (not pictured) which saved me a good bit of work. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once clean and after a light sanding, I primed the drawers, doors and cabinets with KILZ spray primer, putting an extra coat on the super-nasty parts. I decided to paint just the very front of the drawers and doors with my funky colors of enamel matte-finish paint, to give them a more modern look. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We love this utilitarian metal shelving (I used a lot of it in my art studio at the apartment) easily purchased at Home Depot or Target. This will serve as some extra storage & counter space and will eventually sport butcher block once we venture to Ikea. I am also looking forward to hanging open shelving above to display our coffee cup collection and other attractive kitchen kitchery. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wow! All that sweat and elbow grease was so worth it! The colors are so lively and cheerful, yet modern and Dwell-worthy. I still have DIY cabinet pulls to install (you can get a glimpse of them on the drawers to the right in the photo above).</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To rehab the back-splash, we simply replaced the broken and missing bricks (there was a whole box of them in the attic), painted the same white as the walls, and caulked the gaps and cracks to give it a finished look. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The little eat-in area in the kitchen is the perfect size for our table. I like that it butts up to the window, as my plants get great morning light here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still to do in the kitchen: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">* Get new counter tops (butcher block from Ikea)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">* New faucet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">* New flooring (possibly the new peel-n-stick tiles that can be grouted) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">* Window treatments (natural woven bamboo blinds)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">* Garbage disposal </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">* Hang open shelves</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">...And that's just the kitchen! Luckily, the rest of the house wasn't in such bad shape, so we'll cover that in the next post. That's all for now, I'm off to enjoy my house!</span><br />
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<br />Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-89512564997156608532012-07-12T21:59:00.000-05:002012-07-13T09:42:14.053-05:00Pottery<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am lusting over these new pieces at</span> <b><span style="color: #666666;"><a href="http://www.cb2.com/" target="_blank">CB2</a>. </span></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://images.cb2.com/is/image/CB2/chicktealighthldrbirchFC12?&$web_zoom$&wid=337&hei=337" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images.cb2.com/is/image/CB2/chicktealighthldrbirchFC12?&$web_zoom$&wid=337&hei=337" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-56778668367113184162012-07-09T08:37:00.000-05:002012-07-12T21:59:21.875-05:00String Art<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsI6pSccj5C6_OEaNw65VQ8OgOxK3-RrmFV7itcImjRBHqwskYjqSzspWZh9_4Oi-fki3EDlZo3ZEz6OyQEYj8tgyaZYs-k-oA-CV3CUD7zLB_1Zj2BmnxjOsKK24mKagVXp0qaHCPJo/s1600/string+art3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsI6pSccj5C6_OEaNw65VQ8OgOxK3-RrmFV7itcImjRBHqwskYjqSzspWZh9_4Oi-fki3EDlZo3ZEz6OyQEYj8tgyaZYs-k-oA-CV3CUD7zLB_1Zj2BmnxjOsKK24mKagVXp0qaHCPJo/s320/string+art3.JPG" width="320" /></a> <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Prints and paintings are great, but sometimes you want to mix up your wall decor. What could be more sassy than some geometric DIY string art? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Every aspect of this project was tedious and time-consuming. From drawing the template to pounding 200 nails, then applying the string, and finally carefully peeling off the paper template from under the finished piece. A full-on weekend project for sure, but well worth it. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_ABiR0jv7rA-69HZCuyMdsldLrGQ6okbbhkoT8JOzky9pBIg-iRBojNCyv7R52YeP8ZS4t9f8w4SA8iA-FZEzG8-leq-OHVF6h37o-Nq_6TGPSwRO9sdz9GR6pzIqibKIj2pWNSWr1o/s1600/vingnette2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_ABiR0jv7rA-69HZCuyMdsldLrGQ6okbbhkoT8JOzky9pBIg-iRBojNCyv7R52YeP8ZS4t9f8w4SA8iA-FZEzG8-leq-OHVF6h37o-Nq_6TGPSwRO9sdz9GR6pzIqibKIj2pWNSWr1o/s320/vingnette2.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I chose dark brown, gold, grey, bright orange and dark rusty red embroidery floss. Any type of string or yarn would work, depending on the intricacy and boldness your design. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next time I'd like to try a rustic slice of tree stump rather than the pale plywood. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While we're at it, check out my new thrifty finds: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Left to Right: a cool volcanic textured pot, chevron planter, and circle-clad vase. Lots of brown-town, but I love it.</span>Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-22086319505193318022012-06-05T15:33:00.000-05:002012-06-05T16:07:16.494-05:00Thrifted Lotte Lamp<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is going to sound crazy, but over the weekend, I found a <span style="color: orange; font-size: large;"><a href="http://lottelamps.com/" target="_blank">Lotte Lamp</a> </span>(classic Scandinavian mid-century modern) for $5 at a thrift store. As you can see, there is nary a chip or scratch on the thing; it is either new or has been sitting in a closet for the past 40 years. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The shade was only $2, so I bought it, even though I would like to snag an original Lotte shade at some point. A few years ago, I splurged and bought a brand new Lotte Lamp for $145 at <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.centuryhouseinc.com/" target="_blank">The Century House</a> </span>here in Madison. They are fantastic. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Who loves and amazing find? I do!</span>Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5766281792629144446.post-89289062550018863572012-05-29T20:07:00.000-05:002012-05-29T20:09:07.836-05:00Busy B<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here I am! I've been all kinds of crazy-busy getting ready to move into our new house (whaaat? more on this later) and to a lesser extent crafting and the other usual ridiculous things I tend to do. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am freaking out over <span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">warm colors</span>. I found the fabric that is now wonderful pillow cases on a recent thrifting trip. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look at all the plants I have crammed in one place! Normally, these fellows would be outside by now, but as I mentioned we are moving in a matter of weeks, so they will have to stay put. Did you know Matt and I are buying a house? Big step in life! We are excited, overwhelmed, perplexed, frightened, and overjoyed. We've been thinking, dreaming and planning for this for a long time and it's really here--yikes! Look for a possible home-renovation blog in the near future!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3TriDk-gTFqRwiHnjDBgGOLUObezo1ET6a1NwzRXlR0antVPJbLaXKM4T_tLYaMKT-830VBoW1pBvwW-ce2ksrdSic_tr3GgUK7zFVRXIFTSswz__36LWoofTvE7k38vfEWzh8poN9Q/s1600/pillows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3TriDk-gTFqRwiHnjDBgGOLUObezo1ET6a1NwzRXlR0antVPJbLaXKM4T_tLYaMKT-830VBoW1pBvwW-ce2ksrdSic_tr3GgUK7zFVRXIFTSswz__36LWoofTvE7k38vfEWzh8poN9Q/s320/pillows.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Continuing on the warm color palette, I whipped out these pillows yesterday. I modified the fabric you saw above by folding and stitching it to create a varied design. The <span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">zig-zag</span> is part of a remnant I've been saving for just the right project (read: hoarding and petting it while repeating "my pretty...")<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunB4FRQB4Waba1fgU0BwlDMAMdZX0AfQP4C4pXJ6qFB-PCAuQ3lO_s3Sdsp4MYHhBuThyphenhyphenu9-c1nA9HlNYd3006_PimzqXs7RHYMjb6Vxd_SsojOyxenTRiDzEqb_zwkUrC3n7wsDwfUQ/s1600/cupcakes1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunB4FRQB4Waba1fgU0BwlDMAMdZX0AfQP4C4pXJ6qFB-PCAuQ3lO_s3Sdsp4MYHhBuThyphenhyphenu9-c1nA9HlNYd3006_PimzqXs7RHYMjb6Vxd_SsojOyxenTRiDzEqb_zwkUrC3n7wsDwfUQ/s320/cupcakes1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For Mother's Day I tried my hand at the <span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Succulent Cupcakes</span> project featured in my previous post. I'd say the results were pretty damn cool. Everyone loved them. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGziNd5FizSc3uj64RaIw2quWK48r-8EDnJ310XU-ttBXTQkdVqvTf7b5f2IhPHXmfME_2e5kC2PniZRQ0aSMpt8DFkg_UfvgI3Sngh3Ujw6qskS42kx5LXCJSIo6rHJQPTE89ohCZFAM/s1600/cupcakes3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGziNd5FizSc3uj64RaIw2quWK48r-8EDnJ310XU-ttBXTQkdVqvTf7b5f2IhPHXmfME_2e5kC2PniZRQ0aSMpt8DFkg_UfvgI3Sngh3Ujw6qskS42kx5LXCJSIo6rHJQPTE89ohCZFAM/s320/cupcakes3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Time-consuming? Yes. Completely impressive and too-cute-to-eat? Also yes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Matt and Bobbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00287385850626173483noreply@blogger.com1