tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66665898271292295302024-03-13T10:05:57.885-05:00Let's Just Build a House!Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.comBlogger273125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-14322565249491468432017-10-04T18:39:00.003-05:002017-10-04T18:39:28.254-05:00Spoon River Drive 2017Well it sort of feels like Fall in Illinois. This week the 80 degree temps finally dipped a bit and allowed for boots and a light cardigan. With leaves changing comes pumpkin spice lattes, chunky sweaters, boots, apple cider, pumpkin-patching, plaid...you get the point. But maybe best of all, my most favorite weekend to kick off all things Fall: Spoon River Drive flea market weekend. <br />
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Every year this event is on our calendar. My mom, sister and I load up in my dad's work van and travel the Spoon River Route popping in and out of vendors booths, antique shops, and flea markets. We typically fill every inch of the vehicle with treasures.<br />
We usually follow about the same route every year, sometimes changing it up--sometimes not.<br />
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<u><strong>2016 Route:</strong></u><br />
<strong>Hannah City</strong><br />
<strong>Farmington</strong><br />
<strong>Canton</strong><br />
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<b>Hannah City: </b>Go to Hannah City for the junk vendors. This town is typically filled with vendors on the side of the road, in parking lots and front yards. It's the first town on our route and a pretty good warm up. The can't-miss-it-stop is a guy selling antiques and junk in someone else's garage and driveway. Last year he told us it was his last year. We sincerely hope he lied to us.<br />
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I bought two of these tiny little school chairs for Ben for $5 each from the Hannah City garage man. He had a bunch of them, I should've snagged them all. Flea market regrets, sigh.<br />
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<strong>Off the Beaten Path:</strong> After Hannah City, we headed towards the next stop on our tour which is Farmington. Last year, we ventured away from the actual route a tad. We randomly followed signs for a <em>'BIG BIG SALE'</em> to a sort of scary one lane gravel road into the woods. We were a tad nervous that we were being fooled into a kidnapping plot. <br />
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Quick side story: a few years back, we followed the random signs that said things like <em>'BIG BIG SALE' </em>and<em> 'TURN HERE FOR DEALS'</em> and we did, and it was a bust. A super bust. <br />
So why we decided to take another chance, I do not really know, but we were glad we did. We were not kidnapped. We had actually hit the jackpot of junk stops. We ended up at an old farm house in the woods with a few barns---completely filled with junk. I mean filled. The new owners had bought the property completely full and were trying to make it through the stuff.<br />
They were practically giving stuff away. I can't even tell you what we all bought but this is what our vehicle looked like when we left.<br />
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What I do know is that I got this bar cart for $10. It was a rough looking golden beauty.</div>
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I cleaned it up and spray painted it ORB for my basement wine nook.<br />
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So basically the moral of my story is, if you see a bunch of random signs on Spoon River Drive telling you about a <em>BIG BIG SALE</em>, it may be the jackpot of all junk spots--or it may be a trick. May the odds ever be in your favor.<br />
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<strong>Farmington: </strong>I suggest you plan to spend some time in this town. <br />
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First, take a pit stop at the Moose Lodge's pancake breakfast for a quick bite. The food is very good and quick. Get the biscuits and gravy and a cinnamon roll to go! Plus, clean bathrooms. The parking lot all around the Moose is full of good vendors. Junk, antiques, crafts. We typically find a few good booths here.<br />
There is pretty good sized craft show at the park in Farmington. We've skipped it the past few years. Mostly crafty stuff, less junk/antique stuff. But if crafts are your thing, go. Be sure to visit booth with the ladies who sell homemade breads and pastries, they have really delicious baked goods. Take home some raisin bread for the week.<br />
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Next, and most important, head to the fairgrounds. You have one goal for the Farmington Fairgrounds. <i>One goal</i>. Get the apple fritters. I mean it. If you do anything in Farmington, stop at the fairgrounds flea market and wait in the line for the apple fritters. The line looks sort of long, and it is long. I promise after you take a bite of the warm apple fritters your only regret will be that you placed one order, and not two.<br />
There are vendors all along the way to the fairground in town. Stop and see what they have to offer too. Then after you get your fill of fritters, take a walk around the flea market at the fairgrounds. Several rows of fun booths, plus tents fills with cheap socks and kitchen strainers. <br />
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Then turn around, and head towards Canton.<br />
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<strong>Canton: </strong>Again, go for the junk vendors. Junk vendors are everywhere along the Spoon River Drive. Stop when something catches your eye. Buy all the junk.<br />
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My mom bought these random drum things from one of our favorite vendors and I don't even know why...but my sister is lucky they didn't have more or she'd be calling herself an Uber.<br />
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That's it folks. I will try to post a recap of our weekend and flea market finds before Spoon River 2018, but don't count on it. If you want to find your own Spoon River Treasures, see below for info.<br />
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<strong>What: Spoon River Scenic Valley Drive</strong><br />
<strong>When: First two weekends in October; 7-8 and 14-15 </strong><br />
<strong>Where: Fulton County, Illinois </strong><br />
<strong>More Info: </strong><strong><a href="http://www.spoonriverdrive.org/">http://www.spoonriverdrive.org/</a></strong><br />
<strong>2015 Let's Just Build a House Spoon River Recap:</strong> <a href="http://www.letsjustbuildahouse.com/2015/10/spoon-river-drive-2016-recap-and-flea.html" target="_blank">Spoon River Drive 2015</a> <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.spoonriverdrive.org/" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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<br />Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-53956651080165216782017-07-26T21:26:00.000-05:002017-07-26T21:26:05.746-05:00Retaining Walls: Railings and Stonework<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Heyyyyy you guysssss...</div>
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We're back. We're back for a quick update. I know, I know, we were supposed to share the basement and home bar update months ago. But, not today. Someday.<br />
We've been working on a little DIY project lately and it really should be documented. Well, maybe I should say, we've asked my dad to do another DIY project for us.<br />
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If we back up a little and look at photos from the build in 2012, we started with two pretty unsafe and very bland retaining walls.<br />
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I mean, they did the job. They kept the <strike>dirt</strike> mud where it needed to be. They were fine.<br />
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They were fine for a few years. Then we went and had a baby in 2015. Then that baby became a toddler and started walking, then running. Really, he runs <em>all over. </em> Also he climbs, climbs everything. So, the time came to make the retaining walls a bit safer. We needed custom railings out back asap.<br />
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Luckily for us, my dad retired this year and has a bit of extra time on his hands. Bonus: he's a retired Ironworker. Steel railings sounded sturdy and safe.<br />
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Adam, my dad and I discussed what we wanted the railings to look like. Mostly they talked about it and measured. I showed them a dozen Pinterest photos. But still, we discussed.<br />
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Then they poured a concrete cap on the top of each retaining wall. They also installed steel plates where the welded posts would be secured.<br />
Then my dad got to work. Welding away the steel to create the railings. He welded two railings. One approximately 16 feet, the other 20 feet.<br />
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After he finished, he set the railings, then welded the spindles. Adam was his trusty assistant.<br />
Last, they painted them black with black metal paint. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Complete.<br />
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Finito. Or so we thought.<br />
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About that time we mentioned that someday we would like the retaining walls stoned. If you are new here, my dad did all the stonework on our house. The exterior has about 350 square feet of <a href="http://www.letsjustbuildahouse.com/2012/12/currently-on-outside.html" target="_blank">custom stonework</a>. Our <a href="http://www.letsjustbuildahouse.com/2012/11/we-are-back.html" target="_blank">two-story fireplace</a> is in the heart of our home. He did that too. We love it all, and it's a wonderful feature of our home. It's extra special because my dad did it himself.<br />
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Well, back to those two retaining walls...<br />
Next thing you know we are ordering the stone and my dad is back with his tools. I told you he's retired now.<br />
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The stone is from the same quarry as what we used when we built. It's a cedar web-wall. We use a 2 inch cut natural stone. My dad picks and chooses his stones, and cuts many of them to create the web-wall. He uses his own mix of mortar. </div>
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He's been doing this for most of the summer, but not every day. He'll come down and stay with us a few days here and there. A fishing trip and a Mexican vacation in between, and then he's back. He even had a helper some days! In matching overall bibs... all the heart eyes right here.<br />
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Ben really loves helping his Pa when he's visiting. He's not too upset about the giant pile of sand in our backyard at the moment either. (The sand is needed to make the mortar mix).<br />
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I have to say, our patio furniture looked even better when the wall was only 1/3 of the way done!<br />
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Getting closer...</div>
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And then just last week. It was done.<br />
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It looks even better than we imagined.<br />
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This was last week, and he's already been back to start the second wall. Soon we'll be having a patio party! We'll report back soon. Probably.<br />
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Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-73671265790306258982016-12-23T02:30:00.000-06:002017-01-05T15:14:55.567-06:00Merry Christmas ...and moreFrom our family to yours, we hope you have a holly jolly Christmas!<br />
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Although we don't get to share as much as we used to, we didn't forget about our readers. We have project updates coming up in the new year! You want to see how that basement finish went right?Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-21233583695916817922016-12-16T09:39:00.001-06:002016-12-16T09:39:14.130-06:00Ho Ho Holiday Cards with {Minted}<span style="font-family: inherit;">Do you send out Christmas or other holiday wishes to friends and family? I enjoy designing the card every year. I always create a few different designs then let Adam choose his favorite. There are 100 places to make your holiday cards, but I always go back to <a href="http://minted.com/" target="_blank">Minted</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I choose to use Minted because they feature art from all over the world for their beautiful designs. Minted is the </span><a href="http://www.minted.com/about-us" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">marketplace</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> for independent artists, from around the globe. Their designs are not only gorgeous and unique, but their products are the highest quality.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This year, we took advantage of their <em>free</em> address book concierge. How beautiful are the fronts of our envelopes! This is a service <a href="http://minted.com/" target="_blank">Minted</a> is offering at no charge for a limited time. Send your addresses in any format and Minted makes the hard part easy! You will thank yourself next year too, no searching for that address list!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">There is still time to order beautiful cards for the holidays. <a href="http://www.minted.com/holiday-photo-cards" target="_blank">Christmas Cards</a>, New Year's Cards, and even special Minted gifts from Minted Art & Minted Home can still be ordered in time for Christmas.</span><br />
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<h4>
Get cards with free rush shipping and 15% off with Minted promo codes: SHIPNOW and WINTER16 </h4>
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Your cards will arrive by 12/20 if you use the free concierge service, you are still a step ahead and your friends and family will get their cards before Santa arrives!</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Minted is known for its high-quality paper and printing. Minted’s Signature paper is thick and luxurious with a creamy cotton texture, and has been optimized for photo printing. You can also choose 100% recycled paper, Pearlescent paper which adds a subtle shimmer, DoubleThick paper or even TripleThick paper. <a href="http://minted.com/" target="_blank">Minted</a> also offers postcards, ornament cards and 8 <a href="http://www.minted.com/unique-shapes" target="_blank">unique die-cut shapes</a>. </span><span style="color: #555555;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span style="color: black;"> A variety of backer options allow you to add additional photos, text, and customization options to your holiday card.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<i>I was compensated for my time for this post but as usual all opinions are my own.</i></div>
</span></span></span>Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-16481793451968657702016-09-05T09:53:00.002-05:002016-09-05T09:53:48.605-05:00We've been Featured: Effingham Life MagazineExciting news! We've been featured in a local magazine. Our story, and photos of a few of our favorite projects and flea market finds, have been included in magazine <a href="http://online.fliphtml5.com/dnhz/zsgx/" target="_blank">Effingham Life</a>. <br />
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We did the photos and story earlier this year for their Spring publication but it didn't make the cut. We quickly put it in the back of our minds thinking it was buried. We were all surprised this week when friends and co-workers were calling and messaging us that we were cover models! Yep, we even made the cover!<br />
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You can see the full article here: <a href="http://online.fliphtml5.com/dnhz/zsgx/" target="_blank">Effingham Daily News Life 2016</a><br />
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Many thanks to the great husband and wife team Tony Huffman & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/danaillehuffmanphotography/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Danaille Huffman Photography</a> for making us look good in photos and on paper!Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-82020963594830960772016-08-23T21:46:00.005-05:002016-08-24T08:33:50.838-05:00DIY A-Frame Kids Tent ($25)<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;">Summer is almost over. Which means blogging break is over. We typically take a blog break in the summertime to spend the longer days outside. I know what you are thinking... I promised the basement reveal months ago. It’s coming. Soon. But not today. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;">Today I’m
sharing a simple DIY play tent that can be made during nap time. Really…. We
did this during nap time. It was the easiest project we’ve ever done. </span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/danaillehuffmanphotography/" target="_blank">Danaille Huffman Photography</a></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/danaillehuffmanphotography/" target="_blank"></a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Those tepees are so popular right now and obviously
it’s because they are gosh darn cute, aren’t they? I see them all over
Instagram and blogs. They seem to be a staple in every nursery. Check out this adorable gold and white striped tepee <a href="http://www.hudsonandcoblog.com/2016/05/nursery-reveal-our-foster-story.html" target="_blank">Hudson & Co.</a> used in their gender neutral nursery! I so wanted one
for Benjamin. He’s now at the perfect age to get a kick out of something like
this. But I couldn't convince myself to spend the cash on one, even if they did make my heart pitter-patter. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: 12pt;">So, as we typically do, we looked into DIY-ing our own. After
doing a few minutes of brainstorming, instead of the tepee, we found
inspiration from this cool explorer style tent from Land of Nod.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><img alt="Explorer Playhouse" class="jsZoomLarge" src="http://images.landofnod.com/is/image/LandOfNod/Playhome_Explorer_Wandawega_v2/$web_zoom$&wid=550&hei=550&/160311122052/explorer-playhouse.jpg" id="_imgLarge" style="height: 550px; left: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; top: 0px; width: 550px;" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.landofnod.com/explorer-playhouse/s100816" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Land of Nod $199</span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So stinkin' cute huh? Look at the price tag too. Yipes. Well, this would have been perfect for Ben, but we didn't build that either. I think a tepee would've been easier than that! However, we took that as inspiration--which reminded me of the Boy Scouts, which made me think vintage Boy Scout stuff you see at flea markets...and sometime after that...we ended up with a super
simple version--a traditional A-Frame style tent. I did a bit of google-ing and found we were not the only ones building our own tents for our kiddos.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">As I said earlier, this was a quick project. Even better? It was inexpensive. Total cost for supplies was about $25. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b>1 Drop Cloth <i>$9</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b>3 3/4 Dowels <i>$9</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b>4 1X2x48 boards <i>$8</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b>Stain: Minwax American Walnut was already on hand from past projects</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b>Stitch-witch: leftover from other projects</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i><b>Total: $26</b></i></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jdl364eN7hU/V7z4EyIFkLI/AAAAAAAAH2Y/4DfSanzfPMALDfRzyI1k2b57bXndwAXewCLcB/s1600/IMG_0583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jdl364eN7hU/V7z4EyIFkLI/AAAAAAAAH2Y/4DfSanzfPMALDfRzyI1k2b57bXndwAXewCLcB/s640/IMG_0583.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">This project took less than an hour total. But, having a toddler it still took us two days. Adam stained the frame while Ben and I watered the flowers one evening. </span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: 16px;"> The next day, it took Adam about 10 minutes to measure, cut, and drill the holes. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Just like that--and the frame was finished. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OL0eHa0gRQY/V7z4J7Uas6I/AAAAAAAAH2c/ULopXSpqamU8YLHv9ScUCKkpJEKaFkjDgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OL0eHa0gRQY/V7z4J7Uas6I/AAAAAAAAH2c/ULopXSpqamU8YLHv9ScUCKkpJEKaFkjDgCLcB/s640/IMG_0587.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: 16px;">During naptime, I cut the drop cloth a bit bigger than the frame, and stitch-witched loops for the dowels. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: 12pt;">It took me about a half an hour to cut and stitch-witch. It was such a fast project I'm pretty sure we both got to nap during nap time too. Seriously! I think the hardest part was putting it together with Ben and Scout chasing each other around and causing a commotion that evening.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Finito!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BwLKJRZn3sM/V7z-0blsGfI/AAAAAAAAH3s/6olDB1RvOFMjWHhIo5DL72orsdfMXJTdwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BwLKJRZn3sM/V7z-0blsGfI/AAAAAAAAH3s/6olDB1RvOFMjWHhIo5DL72orsdfMXJTdwCLcB/s640/IMG_0671.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">As far as the how-to...like I mentioned above we are not the only ones who have built our own kiddo tent. A quick pinterest search will give you a few dozen tutorials. We followed the <a href="http://handmademood.com/diy-a-frame-play-tent/" target="_blank">HandMade Mood's tutorial</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The only difference was we used 1x2s instead of slats. She also used a lighter fabric than a drop cloth.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I imagine an old king sized sheet would be perfect too. Or if you had a coupon at Hobby Lobby or Joanne's you could use a few yards of printed fabric for some pizzazz. I like the simplicity and texture of the drop cloth. Maybe we'll stencil something on it later. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wMCq5jzrd7E/V7z_Mokej2I/AAAAAAAAH3w/wZxdTCHuQzYOsADLfkZygsPehrgOkBNZwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0672.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wMCq5jzrd7E/V7z_Mokej2I/AAAAAAAAH3w/wZxdTCHuQzYOsADLfkZygsPehrgOkBNZwCLcB/s640/IMG_0672.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">For now, this is stationed in our basement for
playtime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Later on when Ben gets a big
boy room, we’ll move it there so he can have his own reading nook. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b>Bonus:</b> the tent folds up in a snap for easy storage when we need the space in the
basement family room. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dwe1sMQS0_o/V7z9_YrBfCI/AAAAAAAAH3c/1bn18KewVi0tpiuTVAOC199yI9NkCVdCgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dwe1sMQS0_o/V7z9_YrBfCI/AAAAAAAAH3c/1bn18KewVi0tpiuTVAOC199yI9NkCVdCgCLcB/s640/IMG_0679.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The twinkle lights were a super clearance find at Homegoods one year. I should have bought all they had.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5EoCSTJcda4/V7z-dWBMhHI/AAAAAAAAH3k/NuSi_FqUwqYq9wfcMGfv4Gdvj493EXmlQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5EoCSTJcda4/V7z-dWBMhHI/AAAAAAAAH3k/NuSi_FqUwqYq9wfcMGfv4Gdvj493EXmlQCLcB/s640/IMG_0678.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Ben likes to bring his toys into the tent to play.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xo1cR52BuGc/V7z7MpW1p4I/AAAAAAAAH2w/Y771alGaoSIkWS26bG-u1ITqfZEyrBH8QCLcB/s1600/IMG_0714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xo1cR52BuGc/V7z7MpW1p4I/AAAAAAAAH2w/Y771alGaoSIkWS26bG-u1ITqfZEyrBH8QCLcB/s640/IMG_0714.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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He liked it so much, we took it with us to his 18 month photo shoot. I added a few camping themed items I had from the house. It ended up being a fun prop, and the photos turned out perfect.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvHD0hZHdYY/V7xqmQ0atoI/AAAAAAAAH2I/1Wh_IfjOsUk3J2Rw3ykY6T1E-uOY5taLwCLcB/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvHD0hZHdYY/V7xqmQ0atoI/AAAAAAAAH2I/1Wh_IfjOsUk3J2Rw3ykY6T1E-uOY5taLwCLcB/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/danaillehuffmanphotography/" target="_blank">Danaille Huffman Photography</a></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/danaillehuffmanphotography/" target="_blank">Danaille Huffman Photography</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span>Here is another shot of the basement. It's pretty easy to keep clean with all the bins for Ben's toys on the <a href="http://www.letsjustbuildahouse.com/2016/03/barn-beam-mantel.html" target="_blank">barn wood built-ins</a>. I did make sure Adam's stinky socks were out of the frame when I took the photos. However, the plastic slide & basketball hoop are never not in the living room. Sidenote: I'm still figuring out this whole DSLR thing. The carpet is grey, taupe & brown...not purple!<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-91423040911710145642016-07-26T00:00:00.000-05:002016-07-26T00:00:26.405-05:00A Spa Bathroom by PlumbTile<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Our basement bathroom is finally finished. Well, mostly finished I should say. While we’re all waiting on the photographer (me) to take decent photos for blog sharing--sometimes it’s still fun to do a little design daydreaming! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">I teamed up with </span></span><a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;" target="_blank">PlumbTile</a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> to create a fun mood board for a dreamy spa-like <a href="ttps://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile/Cat_Bath.html" target="_blank">bath</a>. If you’ve been around Let’s Just Build a House for a while, you know I love incorporating vintage and rustic pieces in every room of my home. The bathroom is no different! It’s easy to get carried away though with all the neat finds at flea markets and thrift stores. It’s all about balance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri;">Let’s start with the floors</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri;">. </span></span></span><a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/" target="_blank">PlumbTile's</a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></span><a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile/Cat_Tile_Stone.html" target="_blank">glass tile & stone </a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri;"> selection is top notch. It was fun browsing the beautiful glass tiles they offer. But for this mood board I had to stick with a natural stone like the limestone. I’m pretty happy with our natural stone in the <a href="http://www.letsjustbuildahouse.com/2014/01/house-tour-master-bath.html" target="_blank">master bathroom</a>, so it’s an easy choice for this room design. I love the color too. Oh, and how about the accent tiles below? Wouldn't that be fun to incorporate into your bathroom? They reminded me of my recent vacation to Mexico! I had to pull them into the design for some fun and warmth. </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">We typically stick with a neutral base tone of flooring and wall color, and then pair it with crisp white as accents. It helps to give a clean and spa-like tone. Towels, white linens, and of course the lighting is important!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/" target="_blank">PlumbTile</a><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> is really a one stop shop. They have what seems an endless selection of </span><a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile/lighting.html" style="font-family: Tinos;" target="_blank">lighting</a><span style="color: black; font-family: Tinos;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">. I’d choose this white and chrome 3 light fixtures over the mirror, with matching sconces throughout the room. My favorite tip is to put your bathroom lights on a dimmer. It’s easy to create perfect mood lighting for soaking in the tub.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">That brings me to the tub in this design. </span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Dream tub. Seriously. A copper tub is truly the showstopper in this design. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">I’d certainly love this beautiful copper soaker tub paired with the marble vanity & sink combo. This brings a nice balance to our rustic items with modern and sleek. </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">It’s always best to combine a few modern or contemporary touches into your decorating scheme to offset the rustic themes in the room. The gorgeous hand crafted vanity is a stand-out piece. It compliments the soaking tub and rounds out the bathroom design perfectly! </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Just picture yourself in this room, with a glass of wine, a good book, in that big copper tub!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">Do you have a </span><a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile/Cat_Bath.html" style="background-color: white; color: #4bbb91; line-height: 21.56px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">bathroom renovations</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">, refresh, or renovation in progress or on your mind? </span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/GTC-1660.html" target="_blank">sconce</a> | <a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/GTC-1666.html" target="_blank">vanity light</a> | <a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/SON-7873955.html" target="_blank">stainless towel rack</a> | <a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/SF-SI-CS-36.html" target="_blank">marble vanity </a> | <a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/NT-CPS802.html" target="_blank">copper tub</a> | <a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile/Cosa_Marble.html" target="_blank">limestone</a> | <a href="https://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/ZUC-ZAD410.html" target="_blank">soap dish</a></span></i><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; font-family: "droid sans"; font-size: x-small; line-height: 14px;">This post was written by me and sponsored by the <a href="http://plumbtile.com/" style="color: #4bbb91; text-decoration: none;">PlumbTile.com</a></i><i style="background-color: white; font-family: "droid sans"; font-size: x-small; line-height: 14px;">. I was compensated for my time, all opinions are my own.</i>Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-88056520802355888062016-05-31T14:57:00.002-05:002016-05-31T14:57:25.086-05:00Kids Custom Name & Clothing Labels from {Minted}I love opening a box of fresh stationary. We ordered our <a href="http://www.letsjustbuildahouse.com/2015/02/babyns-birth-announcements-with-minted.html" target="_blank">birth announcements from Minted</a> and we were so happy with the quality. When we heard about the custom name labels minted was rolling out we were excited to give them a try.<br />
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There were so many adorable designs to choose from, I had a hard time deciding what to order, so I chose a variety of kid friendly goodies. The Minted name and clothing labels are a durable way to customize your kids' clothing, bottles, food containers, toys---anything! They're dishwasher safe, laundry safe, water proof and non toxic. These could go pretty much on every item Ben owns. Well, they are doing just that.<br />
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First, I got to work on a few thank you notes we had been slacking on. The flat personalized thank you cards are oh-so-cute and customization was simple.<br />
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They were easy to customize with Ben's name, plus, I had 100s of designs and customization options to choose from.<br />
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Then the best part, using the custom name and clothing labels on EVERYTHING. I ordered a few different sizes and styles for a fun variety.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">First, I labeled his new books. We don't want any other baby getting his grubby hands on these awesome Eric Carle books.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QjA56ERaxJQ/VzonWl_vAsI/AAAAAAAAHNM/XWTWRN6Sb70ycYah2nv9PCeNd0SCPJS4QCLcB/s1600/IMG_0504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QjA56ERaxJQ/VzonWl_vAsI/AAAAAAAAHNM/XWTWRN6Sb70ycYah2nv9PCeNd0SCPJS4QCLcB/s640/IMG_0504.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then, I started labeling some of Ben's Clothes, I stuck to outer wear for now--since that seems to be what we lose the most. Hats, sweatshirts and jackets. <br />
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These are great so that his stuff doesn't get mixed up at the sitter's. I got label happy pretty quickly after the first batch still looked so nice after I a load of laundry. </div>
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All Ben's blankies labeled-- then tested these out right away too! They are still perfectly sticky after a few loads of laundry. </div>
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These would be GREAT in a few years when Ben goes to school. You can personalize most of the designs with room number, teacher, phone numbers...anything!<br />
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Sippy cups were next. We typically use the cheapo ones---so everyone else has these too. It took me about 2 minutes to label all the cups in the cabinet. The photos below are AFTER I took them out of the dishwasher. Still sticky, still attached, no movement, curling, or fading.</div>
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Of course, we had to choose one of the puppy themed stickers. He looks like a cartoon version of Ben's favorite puppy toy 'Kipper' don't you think?</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Thanks to <a href="http://www.minted.com/name-labels?it_category=n_bk&it_id=c4nl1&device=desktop&us=new+visitor&feature=tertiary_nav&l1_node_name=stationery&l2_node_name=baby+%26+kids&l3_node_name=Name+%26+Clothing+Labels&event=click&node_type=text&t_api=1" target="_blank">Minted</a> for providing these handy and super cute goodies for us! </span><br />
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A bit about <a href="http://www.minted.com/" target="_blank">Minted</a>:<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: small;">We believe that great design lives and thrives in the hands of independent artists that people do not have access to through traditional retailers. Minted uses technology to allow consumers to discover great creative talent, making Minted a place where artists can learn, gain exposure, and build their businesses. </span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">Minted is a design marketplace. We source creative content from a global community of independent artists, then sell the best content in the form of art, home décor, and stationery, directly to consumers. An early pioneer of crowdsourcing, Minted has held art and design challenges monthly since April 2008. Challenges are open for both submission and voting, the 'crowd' curates Minted's product selection by rating products, and Minted utilizes analytics to evaluate votes. </span></i></div>
Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-23349086041464436172016-05-16T09:20:00.000-05:002016-05-16T09:20:09.571-05:00Hand Print Planter: Mother's Day Gift <h4>
I just love now that I have a kid I can do fun artsy fartsy personalized gifts for grandparents. This year we made flower boxes for both of Ben's grandmas.</h4>
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It was super simple. We did hand prints on one side, and text on the other. You can make it even easier: handprints only on both sides. Or, you can do a fancier stencil, or Modge Podge photos. Whatever you think Grandma would like.<br />
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First, get yourself the planter. You can either build yourself a simple planter box, or buy one. We planned to build our own, but we both got swamped with work in the end of April. We were glad to find these so easily at our hardware store even if we do lose a few DIY points. These <a href="http://www.menards.com/main/home-decor/craft-supplies/planters-hanging-baskets-accessories/24-cedar-window-box-planter/p-1444452022965-c-10138.htm?tid=4652894475389919922" target="_blank">red cedar planter boxes</a> were purchased from Menards for less than 10 bucks each.<br />
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One evening before tubby time, we set up the supplies to roll art paint onto Ben's hands. It seemed like the simple and quick part of the project. We got the camera ready for a photo opt. <i><span style="color: #666666;">"The pictures would be so cute to show the grandmas!"</span> </i> It ended up being a bit more chaotic. Instead of documenting the event with photos as we'd imagined, it went a little something like this:<br />
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">"Look Ben, we're making your grandmas Mother's Da-- ucky no, no."</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">"Don't let him touch his mouth!"</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">"You're smearing it!"</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">"Don't rush me."</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">"Hurry, I need a rag."</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">"NO. Do not eat it."</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">"Crap, it's on the dog!"</span></i></div>
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Sounds fun huh. After that mess, this is what we ended up with on the planters.<br />
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After the baby was cleaned and put to bed, I poured myself a diet coke and got to work. Stenciling was easy and sort of relaxing. I traced with pencil, then went over the stencil once more with a q-tip and the paint. They're weren't perfect of course.<br />
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The grooves of the wood made it hard to get each letter lined up, but we're going for the rustic look today.<br />
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I went over the boxes with one coat of Minwax Early American the next day. I was going to leave them unfinished, but decided to give it a shot, and I liked them even more. In between the stenciling of the Grandma boxes and the staining---I made my own planter box for my herbs. However for mine I decided to skip the hand prints. It was not as easy as it was cute.<br />
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Then we planted.<br />
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I like how my herb box turned out too. I did skim Pinterest text ideas more interesting than 'fresh herbs' but I typically go for basic, and basic it was again. I'm happy with it.<br />
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Ben seemed pleased with his work.<br />
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What would you do to personalize your planter box? Add photos? A design?</div>
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Pin it, share it, and save it for Mother's Day Gift idea next year!</h4>
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Next, we're sharing more basement updates!</div>
Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-63614235654487029212016-03-02T02:30:00.000-06:002016-03-02T02:30:16.845-06:00Barn Beam MantelIt's complete!<br />
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It's exactly what I wanted. Actually, it turned out better than I imagined. Thanks to Adam.<br />
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Let's go back real quick shall we?<br />
Last time you saw the barn beam mantel it was right after our contractor put it together, and before the drywall mud. Oh also, I was super pregnant. About 390-ish days ago...<br />
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And now...<br />
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I finally framed up Ben's newborn photos too. Extra points for me.<br />
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Unfortunately, I didn't even get a nice snap of the finished product before we slapped a TV up there!<br />
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Like I mentioned earlier, the mantel looks even nicer than I had imagined it would. The barn beams looked awesome, but you could still see where the wall started and where the beams ended. Well, I thought it looked rustic and as complete as it was going to get. But Adam had other ideas...<br />
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Adam and I had been holding onto a few scraps of barn wood trim we salvaged from my mom and dad's remodel. It pays to hoard scraps in the end kids.<br />
In one afternoon he easily trimmed out the beams and created the shelving I wanted.<br />
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He capped off the tops of the beams with a "crown molding"<br />
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He also covered this blank space behind the mantel with a removable panel. This is where all of our cords and wires will hide. They'll still be easily accessible.<br />
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I'm on the hunt for baskets or bins to put on the floor, and smaller ones to put on the shelves to house toys and games. I can't wait to style these shelves!<br />
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You can see all the construction photos of the basement right here. <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/02/basement-progress-drywalland-details-on.html" target="_blank">Basement Progress</a> 2015Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-58593218561045377542016-02-27T21:29:00.001-06:002016-02-27T21:29:56.991-06:00Benjamin is ONEOur sweet Benjamin is now one. We could never imagine a year of bright smiles, laughs, and memories could by so fast.<br />
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We celebrated last weekend with our family.<br />
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Adorable fox cakes! The best part is the tail coming around the side!<br />
We went with a fox theme mostly because I always have loved little fox stuff. Even when we were decorating his nursery I chose fox accents here and there.<br />
I felt like this was the only time I get to choose the theme. Next year he will probably be into Mickey or Paw Patrol...this year..I had all the say!<br />
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He received sooo many nice presents. A wagon, a slide, a truck... those are only the gifts from his grandparents and us! This kid is set. He's having a ball playing with them all.<br />
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He dug into the cake. It was a long day for him, he fell asleep with cake in his hand! </div>
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Cake banner, custom long sleeved t-shirt, and both the ONE & BENJAMIN pendant banners were all custom made by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PorterDesignCo?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">PorterDesignCo</a><br />
Cake by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Cake-Lady-121986771201314/?fref=ts" target="_blank">The Cake Lady</a>.<br />
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<i>Related: </i><br />
<a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/03/hes-here.html" target="_blank">He's Here!</a><br />
<a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/03/bens-vintage-inspired-nursery.html" target="_blank">Ben's Vintage Inspired Nursery</a><br />
<a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/05/being-mamaso-far.html" target="_blank">Being a Mama..so far</a>Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-6222313721090899982016-02-12T05:00:00.000-06:002016-02-12T05:00:01.062-06:00Carpet!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have carpet! Finally! You'd think choosing carpet would be quick and simple. Pick your color, texture, order. Done.</div>
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Nope. </div>
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I wanted grey and brown carpet to go with the slate look <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2016/01/basement-bar-natural-stone-look-floors.html" target="_blank">tile</a> in the basement. But there are 1 million options for grey and brown carpet. I lugged home 6-8 sample boards filled with carpet squares. It took forever to commit over which 4x4 sample would look the best spread across my basement. </div>
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Some were way too grey. Most were way too light. This would be a basement with a bar, and kids running around. It had to be able to both hide stains and look good. </div>
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I finally narrowed it down to 2 options. I then basically decided which was the lucky winner by playing eeny meeny miny mo. We measured and ordered. The carpet would butt up against the <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2016/01/basement-bar-natural-stone-look-floors.html" target="_blank">tile</a> in the basement bar, and be in the hallway and guest suite.<br />
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We went with Weathered Wood by Shaw. After the baseboards were installed, the carpet layer came and finished the whole basement in a few days. He did a great job. It seamed up very nice.<br />
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I'm happy with the texture, and the level of softness-- but only about 50/50 with the color in the end. Most of the time it looks great. But, if you catch it in the right light it can give off too much of a grey + brown tone, which can almost be a shade of purple! Not in all lights, just a certain time of day. Which is so weird to me! However, I think when we actually have furniture in the room and the right lighting, it will brighten it up and pull some of the lighter shades out. It will be less grey/brown/purple than what I'm seeing right now. It's just a sea of carpet!<br />
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The carpet being installed did help me to decide that while furniture shopping, we need to go for the light colored furniture not the brown I was originally leaning towards. <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-great-furniture-debate-it-really-is.html" target="_blank">Shopping for a couch</a> has all been a pain in the rear for us, I'm hoping the hunt for a comfy sectional does not follow the trend.<br />
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In all, we love having the basement carpeted and moved playtime with Ben down stairs immediately. There is so much more room to run..and since we have hardly anything else down there, less things for him to get into! We will be spending so much time in this space!Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-22998144173747792612016-02-09T15:16:00.003-06:002016-02-09T15:16:22.006-06:00Vintage Ceiling Tile Look for Less in the BarYou probably noticed the beautiful dark decorative ceiling when we talked about our <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2016/01/vintage-tavern-sconces-other-basement.html" target="_blank">vintage tavern lights</a>.<div>
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Adam really wanted the bar to reflect a ~real bar~ and not a ~home bar~ so I did my best to help him with that vision. I wanted the entertaining space to be a little more sophisticated than the college bachelor pad theme I think that Adam would have done without me vetoing the Big Lebowski posters and such. So, I tried to incorporate both of our wants in this design. Still no Big Lebowski Poster though...</div>
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The ceiling I think reflects our style, and goes with the rest of our home. Our contractor brought my design idea to life with a faux beam separating the "entertaining space" and the family space. I didn't want a plain old ceiling over the bar. We considered using old copper or tin ceiling tiles, but knew that could be pretty costly not to mention hard to find. </div>
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We originally planned to attempt a <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/09/basement-update-alternative-ceiling.html" target="_blank">wood planked ceiling</a>. After discussing with our contractor and figuring material and labor costs, we decided to drywall a large portion of the basement ceiling, mostly in the family room, then go with a combination of decorative and plain ceiling tiles in the rest of the space. This was more efficient as far as cost of labor for install, soundproofing, quick, and less mess!</div>
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However, I had a hard time coming to terms with the ceiling tile compromise. I know, it sounds ridiculous. I just don't love the sponge-y look of most of the ceiling tiles. We went with the least amount of sponge possible for the plain ceiling tiles, and dressed up the rest of the basement with the decorative ones. </div>
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We selected these decorative <a href="https://www.menards.com/main/home-decor/ceilings/commercial-ceilings/genesis-designer-2-x-2-pvc-antique-lay-in-ceiling-tile/p-1444423154455-c-13612.htm?tid=2967363988775383454" target="_blank">ceiling tiles</a> from Menards. They come in pre-finished colors, but we opted to purchase them in white and give them a custom DIY paint job.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-35OdZ9NBINM/Vpa6txtC47I/AAAAAAAAHBI/Nu0N4sm1eWs/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-35OdZ9NBINM/Vpa6txtC47I/AAAAAAAAHBI/Nu0N4sm1eWs/s640/030.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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Adam laid them out on plastic in the driveway on a semi-warm winter day and spray painted away.We used <a href="http://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/universal/universal-hammered-spray-paint" target="_blank">Rust-oleum hammered spray paint</a> in dark bronze.<br />
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<a href="http://www.rustoleum.com/~/media/DigitalEncyclopedia/Product/RustoleumUSA/CBG/universal/universal-hammered-spray-paint/258199_0910_UNI_12oz_Hammered_DarkBronze_L.ashx" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.rustoleum.com/~/media/DigitalEncyclopedia/Product/RustoleumUSA/CBG/universal/universal-hammered-spray-paint/258199_0910_UNI_12oz_Hammered_DarkBronze_L.ashx" /></a></div>
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We also sprayed the track the same color before it was installed. It took a few cans of spray paint to paint all 30-ish tiles, but in all it was a pretty cheap way to add a custom look to the ceiling.<br />
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We both think it really gives the space the vintage and rustic feel we had in mind.<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">What do you think? What are you ceiling tile feelings?</span></b></div>
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Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-12690740045039315572016-01-27T00:30:00.000-06:002016-01-27T00:30:00.145-06:00Vintage Tavern Sconces & other Basement Lighting It's pretty obvious that I can't design a space in my house without using something vintage. We searched flea markets with our basement design in mind but didn't really come up with any lighting fixtures that fit our taste. Well, my dad came to the rescue with these awesome old tavern lights.<br />
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They looked pretty junky when he handed them over. They were full of grime, crusty decades old cigarette smoke from the tavern where they lived combined with being stored in a musty dusty garage for years after that. But I love a good vintage find, and Adam loves old beer goodies so we took them home and cleaned them up.<br />
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The pair of Schlitz Bottle Sconces will go behind the bar next to the barn beam floating shelves. They're for sure from a local tavern in my hometown area, and from the late 50's. Just for fun, I did a little bit of googling and I found a few sets listed on Ebay. Guess how much... almost 300 bucks for the set! YIPES. That wasn't even in our budget to buy new sconces! Glad we got these babies for free.<br />
Can be found on Ebay here: <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-1959-Pair-Schlitz-Beer-Bottle-Wall-Sconce-Sign-Light-Milwaukee-Wisconsin/390840678492?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D35220%26meid%3Dd2fe4aaf2f854786acd6102bc2ab8145%26pid%3D100011%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D10%26sd%3D201494731226" target="_blank">Schlitz Bottle Sconces</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1959 Schlitz Tavern Light</td></tr>
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My dad also gave us a globe Schlitz light. This one is magical because it not only lights up but the globe spins. A quick google search verified this one was not as old, from the late 60's. I found the <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Schlitz-beer-sign-globe-1968-motion-spinning-lighted-wall-sconce-globe-light-FY1-/191787932317?hash=item2ca7739a9d:g:wTcAAOSwUV9WoAQo" target="_blank">Schlitz globe light</a> listed on Ebay too. I'm surprised they are going for this much. We're not ever selling them, but it's fun to look up the going price of these old finds!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8bGVQQGBVQ/Vqgrz8dZukI/AAAAAAAAHE0/86ukdCpC3q8/s1600/IMG_4057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8bGVQQGBVQ/Vqgrz8dZukI/AAAAAAAAHE0/86ukdCpC3q8/s640/IMG_4057.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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These oldies have been cleaned up and fitted with new wiring for a new home in our basement bar.<br />
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We also have been pretty annoyed with each other over the search for pendant lighting for the bar.<br />
I wanted something ORB, and rustic looking. <br />
Adam wanted small--like smaller than they make. But they lights still had to be 'manly enough' for a bar, and had to be adjustable height.<br />
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We ended up with 5 <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0038GKHDI" target="_blank">Kenroy Home Carson mini pendants</a>.<br />
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The color and finish is perfect, and we both agreed on the shape. At 8 inches, they are a little larger than Adam wanted, but we compromised and he's hanging them a little higher than I normally would agree on. Who knew so many ridiculous arguments could be had over lighting. Now we know.<br />
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When we were building I had about 95% control over the lighting choices. Adam only vetoed a few of my picks and mostly because they were over budget. This time, he counts the wet bar as his space, so we had to compromise.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Under Construction Basement Bar</td></tr>
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Our contractor is building us a beam in the ceiling to help show a separation of the wet bar and the family room. We have a nice separation with the flooring and I wanted to carry that up to the ceiling too. These pendants will be attached to that barn beam. You can see above where the electrician roughed them in yesterday.<br />
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We'll have a few sconces on the barn beam poles in the hallway. We decided on these <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Z9W6JV8" target="_blank">Globe Electric</a> lights.<br />
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We think they'll pair nicely with the pendant lights, and the rest of the fixtures in our home.<br />
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We plan to have most of the lights in the basement on a dimmer so we can set the lighting to whatever we like for movie nights, parties, or just hanging out as a family. We're really looking forward to getting this space finished up in the next month or so. It's been lots of work on evenings and weekends.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What do you think of our lighting choices? Would you pay $300 for a vintage light fixture?</span></b><br />
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<br />Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-40509015470054518822016-01-22T00:30:00.000-06:002016-01-22T19:00:41.667-06:00Basement Bar: Natural Slate Tile<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The basement reno is coming right along. Today we'll concentrate on the progress in the main living area. In this space we'll have a wet bar and large family room.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvaVqo35we4/VqFU7PEegKI/AAAAAAAAHDY/LXDifdOg6Ko/s1600/IMG_4028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvaVqo35we4/VqFU7PEegKI/AAAAAAAAHDY/LXDifdOg6Ko/s640/IMG_4028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Like the <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/12/basement-bathroom-vintage-farmhouse.html" target="_blank">basement bath</a>, we chose tile from Home Depot. We purchased the <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/MARAZZI-VitaElegante-Ardesia-6-in-x-24-in-Porcelain-Floor-and-Wall-Tile-14-53-sq-ft-case-ULP5/205141249" target="_blank">Marazzi VitaElegante</a> tile in Ardesia for the rest of the basement.<br />
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Adam gets credit for this one. He picked it out. I was surprised myself how much I liked his choice. </div>
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It 's in our price range and came in my preferred 6x24 size. It can pull out the grey from the barn wood that we'll be using and has warm and brown tones in the terracotta rust color that blends well with the rest of our home. We were digging the natural stone look. Everything we wanted. </div>
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We had help with this part of the basement from our contractor. We probably could have handled ourselves, like the <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2016/01/basement-bathroom-progress-update.html" target="_blank">bathroom</a>, but we chose to leave it to the professionals. We wanted that fancy angle in the tile to match the angle of the future bar. We felt like that spelled trouble for our novice tile experience. More on the bar plans later.</div>
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We chose to tile the entry way from the back patio too. Although we have a decent sized concrete patio and there isn't much chance for muddy shoes...I felt like walking into straight carpet would be a mess. We'll have the carpet laid in a few weeks around the tile.</div>
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And just because we hired contractors for some of it, doesn't mean we aren't still working our tails off. Here's Adam installing the door hardware. We're running around buying up the little things like door knobs, bath fans, and lighting this week and doing the little odds and ends when Benjamin is sleeping on weekends.</div>
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Next up, the lighting. Who knew lighting could be such a pain to pick out. When we were building, I had about 99% say in the light fixtures, Adam didn't mind. Now since <i>his</i> bar is in the picture, I have to appease him, myself, and our budget! Geesh.Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-9887945322172054892016-01-14T09:11:00.001-06:002016-01-14T09:12:56.123-06:00Basement Bathroom Progress ReportEven though there is crap everywhere, and the lighting is totally off, we wanted to post an in progress update on the basement bathroom reno.<br />
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Last post about the <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/12/basement-bathroom-vintage-farmhouse.html" target="_blank">basement bathroom renovation</a> I showed you our work in progress sleek tile floor.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WY1TyXKZa_4/VmS5ephDjgI/AAAAAAAAG_I/hBwPRORjBVg/s640/image1%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WY1TyXKZa_4/VmS5ephDjgI/AAAAAAAAG_I/hBwPRORjBVg/s640/image1%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Here it is as it stands today. The bathroom is odd L shaped, so it's awkward to get a good angle. Bear with me.<br />
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We really love the floors even more now in all their white grout beauty. Especially after we did all the work ourselves. Which is why it's not perfect. We did save a boat load of money. Although, it came with a cost of just a little bickering at each other in the process and sore knees and backs!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YJ83qLnN7oA/Vpe4f5wFveI/AAAAAAAAHDE/xsL8I4sfTBI/s1600/127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YJ83qLnN7oA/Vpe4f5wFveI/AAAAAAAAHDE/xsL8I4sfTBI/s640/127.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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As far as the ceiling goes, we chose <a href="https://www.menards.com/main/home-decor/ceilings/commercial-ceilings/genesis-designer-2-x-2-pvc-antique-lay-in-ceiling-tile/p-1444423154455-c-13612.htm?tid=2967363988775383454" rel="" target="_blank">these</a> decorative tiles from Menards. They are waterproof, and prettier than the spongy foamy tiles. We chose not to drywall this ceiling in case we ever need to get to the plumbing in the ceiling for this bath, and the master bath, which is directly above this room.<br />
You will see these ceiling tiles in another post, we did something fun with them for a different part of the basement!<br />
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I made a decision on the real life vintage farm house sink debacle and ordered the faucet.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4MaBM6i5Qw/Vl9pYk2lE6I/AAAAAAAAG-Y/HsAyP-8tWBg/s640/image4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4MaBM6i5Qw/Vl9pYk2lE6I/AAAAAAAAG-Y/HsAyP-8tWBg/s640/image4.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0004JNN4W?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00" target="_blank">This</a> is the faucet we ordered. It comes tomorrow, crossing my fingers it's the perfect fit. We measured 30 times, but since the sink is so old it will be tricky.<br />
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41I2wUSMHPL._SL500_AC_SS100_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41I2wUSMHPL._SL500_AC_SS100_.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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Most of our fixtures are Delta, but delta had slim pickins of wall mount options that matched the style we want. Can you guess which one we picked? They both cleaned up so nice, it was hard to decide! I might save the answer for the big reveal.<br />
We can't wait to get the sink installed and the doors and trim up, and of course the stool in place.<br />
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I'm still researching light fixtures for this space. I feel like I've looked everywhere and can't find the right ones! Sometimes I just get something in my head and can't settle!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Where do you shop for light fixtures?</span></b>Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-31000370537095059302015-12-23T13:43:00.003-06:002015-12-23T13:43:43.530-06:00Fa la la la laaaa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-40LGMYdjYDs/Vnr4rUlqA3I/AAAAAAAAG_4/uUWKZPNX9yE/s1600/benwithpuppy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-40LGMYdjYDs/Vnr4rUlqA3I/AAAAAAAAG_4/uUWKZPNX9yE/s640/benwithpuppy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We'll be back with several basement updates after the new year. We've been working so hard, and are taking advantage of a few days off work to tackle the flooring in the basement. We're so excited to show you.<br />
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In the meantime <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ljbahblog/" target="_blank">follow us on Instagram</a> to see some of our Christmas decor that didn't make it on the blog this year, and maybe a sneak peek of the basement finish!<br />
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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!<br />
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<b>XOXO: Adam, Trina & Benjamin</b>Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-40681987759288742322015-12-07T01:00:00.000-06:002015-12-07T01:00:03.229-06:00Basement Bathroom Vintage Farmhouse Sinks & Sleek Floors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We've been making decisions left and right in the basement bathroom. This bathroom is getting whipped into shape this winter, with the rest the basement closely behind. As soon as we get the tile complete, our plumber can install the stool, and the sink. Oh, the sink---we'll get to that part soon. I need your help.<br />
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First, let's talk about floors. We're currently this far on the floors:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WY1TyXKZa_4/VmS5ephDjgI/AAAAAAAAG_I/hBwPRORjBVg/s1600/image1%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WY1TyXKZa_4/VmS5ephDjgI/AAAAAAAAG_I/hBwPRORjBVg/s640/image1%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
Excuse the blurry Iphone picture, and the mess. This was an in-progress-shot. It's only been set. Adam still has to grout this week.<br />
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We purchased this <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/MARAZZI-VitaElegante-Bianco-6-in-x-24-in-Porcelain-Floor-and-Wall-Tile-14-53-sq-ft-case-ULP6/205141241" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tile</a> from the Home Depot.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/400/49/49c2a9df-7cd8-421f-bf77-88edf231ea18_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/400/49/49c2a9df-7cd8-421f-bf77-88edf231ea18_400.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/MARAZZI-VitaElegante-Bianco-6-in-x-24-in-Porcelain-Floor-and-Wall-Tile-14-53-sq-ft-case-ULP6/205141241" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Marazzi VitaElegante Bianco</a></td></tr>
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As you can see in my iphone photo above, it's much more beige than white. We're going with snow white grout lines. This bathroom won't have a window and it's still a basement bathroom, but we want it to be as light and clean looking as possible.<br />
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And now the sink debate.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4MaBM6i5Qw/Vl9pYk2lE6I/AAAAAAAAG-Y/HsAyP-8tWBg/s1600/image4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4MaBM6i5Qw/Vl9pYk2lE6I/AAAAAAAAG-Y/HsAyP-8tWBg/s640/image4.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We have two old <strike>junky</strike> let's say ~vintage~ sinks currently sitting in our basement. They're not in the best shape, obviously. These old sinks were once used in Adam's Grandpa's farmhouse...they've been sitting outside in the shed for years and years, until one day, we did a big clean up day...and they were headed for the dumpster.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yi0x6Rzi6KU/Vl9pYdz4p8I/AAAAAAAAG-g/dxpm4cqmblg/s1600/image3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yi0x6Rzi6KU/Vl9pYdz4p8I/AAAAAAAAG-g/dxpm4cqmblg/s640/image3.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adam probably annoyed that I made him haul two old junky sinks home on clean up day.</td></tr>
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But, you know me....I can't let a vintage find like this be trashed. So in the back of the jeep they went.<br />
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The rust does come off, and I have a call into our plumber for help with switching out the faucets too. My plan is to use one for the laundry room, and one for the basement bathroom.<br />
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Adam so nicely hauled them right into the bathroom so I could see how the colors looked. Right now I like the white, but the green would be sort of fun and eclectic, maybe?<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">So, green or white? Help!!</span></b><br />
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See our other basement finish updates:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2014/03/basement-finish-and-why-its-not-called.html" target="_blank">Basement will NOT be a Man Cave</a></li>
<li><a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/02/basement-progress-drywalland-details-on.html" target="_blank">Basement Drywall, and Barn Beams!</a></li>
<li><a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/09/basement-update-alternative-ceiling.html" target="_blank">Alternative Ceiling for the Basement</a></li>
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Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-38431315125833384112015-12-07T00:30:00.000-06:002015-12-07T00:30:03.616-06:00My Stylin' Iphone Case: JimmyCase ReviewTaking a quick break from home design and decor talk to talk about phone decor. FUNCTIONAL phone decor! The folks at <a href="http://thejimmycase.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">JimmyCASE</a> sent me this sweet <a href="http://thejimmycase.com/products/iphone-6-plus-wallet-case-by-jimmycase?variant=993825249" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Iphone Wallet Case</a> for me to try out. I chose the gold and marroon with wood backer. I think it has a retro flair.<br />
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<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0267/1495/products/6s_PLUS_Burgundy_Gold_copy_large.jpg?v=1448736606" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0267/1495/products/6s_PLUS_Burgundy_Gold_copy_large.jpg?v=1448736606" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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The case popped on easily and was a snug fit. I can still push all my buttons easily and switch my sound on and off, which was a problem with the previous case I had. I'm not one to have a big bulky protective case..surprising since I do drop my phone on a regular basis in the parking lot, or on the tile floor. I know you're wondering if this snazzy case provides any protection at all. I think it does. My phone has taken a tumble a few times in the past week and <i>*knocks on wood*</i> we are still in good shape. <a href="http://thejimmycase.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">JimmyCASE</a> has a full frame protection with a silicone bumper.<br />
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And the cherry on top? Made in the USA. Which you and me both know is an important selling point.<br />
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<a href="http://thejimmycase.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">JimmyCASE</a> can hold up to 6 cards plus your cash. It's stylish and functional. I can stick my ID and debit card in the back pocket and go. This is a HUGE deal to a new mom. I am always carting around way too much stuff with me nowadays. It's nice to be able to have something with a dual purpose that is stylish too! With the JimmyCase I grab what I need, stick it in the diaper bag and go. Or, on a rare evening out without the kiddo I leave my giant purse at home and throw my JimmyCase in my clutch. This leaves more room for important things like lipstick.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOYO9vMWB1I/VmS30QD-Z6I/AAAAAAAAG_A/Ez6zMzbufoQ/s1600/jimmycase1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOYO9vMWB1I/VmS30QD-Z6I/AAAAAAAAG_A/Ez6zMzbufoQ/s640/jimmycase1.jpg" width="546" /></a></div>
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Head to JimmyCase now and pick out your <a href="http://thejimmycase.com/products/iphone-6-plus-wallet-case-by-jimmycase" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">custom Iphone 6 plus wallet case</a>!<br />
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<i>I was provided a product to review. As always, all comments and opinions are my own.</i>Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-38727337358305165552015-11-25T00:30:00.000-06:002015-11-25T00:30:00.514-06:00Gobble GobbleHave a safe and happy Thanksgiving. We hope our readers enjoy the holiday and spend the extra time with family and friends. We'll be back next week with some serious updates on the basement progress!<br />
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<i>Pssst. </i>You can follow us on <a href="https://instagram.com/ljbahBLOG/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>!Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-79558483238872177222015-11-24T00:30:00.000-06:002015-12-01T14:05:28.436-06:00Lighting in the Basement: Shopping with Parrot Uncle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lately, I've been spending more time shopping for basement fixtures, flooring, and lighting than I have shopping for cute baby clothes--which is most of my free time. To top off the basement shopping list I need beautiful lighting for the every room. I've been shopping all over and today I've compiled several choices from <a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Parrot Uncle</a> that I've got my eye on! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bYfYBvTv-f8/Vk37aGlkHAI/AAAAAAAAG7s/N9n9RDW85VY/s1600/parottunclelights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bYfYBvTv-f8/Vk37aGlkHAI/AAAAAAAAG7s/N9n9RDW85VY/s640/parottunclelights.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/industrial-style-iron-framed-glass-shade-wall-sconce-cy-cybdpdl.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vintage Industrial Wall Sconce</a> | <a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/retro-industrial-style-black-iron-hat-shape-pendant-light-cy-cybdhtm.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hat Shape Wall Sconce</a> | <a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/rustic-style-pendant-light-with-goblet-shape-clear-glass-shade.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rustic Pendant</a> | <a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/vintage-industrial-pendant-light-with-celadon-helmet-shape-iron-shade-gb-mx138c1.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pendant with Iron Shade</a> </div>
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| <a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/modern-chrome-crystal-led-ceiling-fan-with-foldable-blades-kbsfsd-y4201.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Foldable Ceiling Fan</a> | <a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/glass-shade-wall-sconce.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Swing Arm Glass Shade Sconce</a> | <a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/rustic-style-retractable-wooden-wall-sconce-in-swan-shape.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wooden Swing Arm Sconce</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">They had a great selection it was hard to choose a short list. I'd choose one of these two swinging arm sconces for the guest bedroom. Can't you imagine a swing arm sconce on each side of the bed? Perfect for reading. The rustic pendant would go great over the cocktail table next to the wet bar. I love rustic style, and things brings some industrial edge into the room as well.</span><br />
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The one item that I thought was really different was the foldable ceiling fan. In the photo it just looks like a pretty hanging pendant, but it turns into a ceiling fan! We are ceiling fan people, but the looks of them isn't always the most beautiful light. You can have beauty and comfort! This might be at the top of my list.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">They have a great selection of lighting for every room in your home. Modern Industrial, chic and sleek, and</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.parrotuncle.com/tiffany-pendant-lights.html" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank">Tiffany pendant lighting</a> and <a href="http://www.parrotuncle.com/tiffany-lamp.html" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank">Tiffany style lamps</a><span style="background-color: white;"> too! Whatever your're looking for to light up your rooms and make an impression or a design statement...they have it! For a steal! Parrot Uncle offers </span>Free Shipping, free returns, and even 1.99 deals!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What light fixtures would you choose from at <a href="https://www.parrotuncle.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Parrot Uncle</a>? </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><i>This post was sponsored by Parrot Uncle but all opinions are my own. </i></span>Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-36891150981912454872015-11-18T00:30:00.000-06:002015-11-18T00:30:00.711-06:00Basement Bathroom Shopping with Plumbtile<div class="MsoNormal">
We’ve been busy working on our basement finish this Fall, and have big plans to get a large portion of this project finished by Spring. As I’ve mentioned <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2014/03/basement-finish-and-why-its-not-called.html" target="_blank">before</a>, we’ll have a family room which includes a wet bar, and a guest bedroom/office complete with its own en suite bathroom in our basement--once everything is completed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The plan is to finish the bathroom first—and so far we’re right on schedule. Since we plan to DIY most of this part of the project ourselves, we can get a large chunk of the job done while waiting on our contractor to do his part.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I think the best part of working on a whole room finish from scratch (besides it being done, of course!) is researching, shopping, and daydreaming about all of the possibilities. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I compiled a collage of different items from <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/" target="_blank">PlumbTile</a> in my search for the bathroom design. I’m not sure how to categorize what style I’ve come up with. I’d like to think it has both a modern and vintage appeal.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nICA2y3llC4/VkuKADYapMI/AAAAAAAAG7Y/pAXt2OL3B0g/s1600/PlumbTileShopping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nICA2y3llC4/VkuKADYapMI/AAAAAAAAG7Y/pAXt2OL3B0g/s640/PlumbTileShopping.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile/Busby_Gilbert.html" target="_blank">Busby Gilbert Herringbone Tile</a> | <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/HR-MIR039.html" target="_blank">French Regency Mirror</a> | <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/DU-003048.html" target="_blank">Washbasin Sink</a> | <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/CE-2120.html" target="_blank">Regal Cast Iron Bath</a> | <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile-product/BRZ-65338LF.html" target="_blank">Brizo Two Handle Widespread Faucet</a> </div>
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I’m loving that teal turquoise herringbone tile. It makes a
statement, and feels both vintage and new, with a hint of eclectic! We’ve got
big plans for the bathroom sink, but this one on <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/" target="_blank">PlumbTile</a> was speaking to me.
We don’t have a huge space for the vanity in this bathroom. This sink feels
sleek and space-saving but not tiny. It has the vintage appeal we’ve got
going on throughout the rest of our home. I like old things, and new things
that look old!<o:p></o:p><br />
I'd top off the room with a fun mirror like the one I chose above. It reminds me of old wood trim in Adam's grandparents farmhouse.</div>
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Of course, if I had an unlimited budget a bathtub like the
one in my design board would be the star of the show. Unfortunately, I don’t
think we’ll be going with one this fancy, but a girl can dream right? Imagine
soaking in this beauty. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Do you have a <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile/Cat_Bath.html" target="_blank">bathroom renovations</a>, refresh, or renovation in
progress or on your mind? Check out <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/" target="_blank">Plumbtile</a> for your <a href="http://www.plumbtile.com/" target="_blank">home improvement</a> needs and start dreaming!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "droid sans"; line-height: 14px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post was written by me and sponsored by the <a href="http://plumbtile.com/">PlumbTile.com</a></i><i>. I was compensated for my time, all opinions are my own.</i></span></span></div>
Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-31978495334484271292015-11-16T00:30:00.000-06:002015-11-16T00:30:00.991-06:00Is It Time To Pull the Plug on Your Water Heater?Is it time to pull the plug on your water heater?<br />
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Did you know, second to heating your home, your water heater is the largest energy user in your house? The older your water heater is, the less efficient it gets. It will require more energy, which costs you more money. According to the <a href="http://www.propanecouncil.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Propane Education & Research Council</a>, water heaters last about an average of 12 years. If you are a midwesterner like me, your water heater works even harder during those chilly Midwest winters.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credit: Propane Education Research Council</td></tr>
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If your water heater is closing in on a decade of age, it might be time to spring for a shiny new model. Don't wait until your water heater is on its last leg before your replace it. Simply replacing your water heater with an energy-efficient propane model can save you 13-16% in annual energy costs, which can add up to hundreds of dollars each year.<br />
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Did you know that propane is also a better source of energy than electric water heaters? Gas-powered water heaters deliver lower ownership costs overall. Tankless models are smaller in size than tank options, but they are more efficient – saving you money. If you factor in the annual cost to run an old, large electric water heater versus a tankless propane water heater with high efficiency, you will make up for the cost of the new heater and installation in no time!<br />
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<i>Is it time to replace your water heater and switch to a different energy source?</i><br />
Take this quick and handy 5 question quiz to find out if it's time to pull the plug on your water heater at <a href="http://knowyourwaterheater.com/">KnowYourWaterHeater.com</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>This post was written by me and sponsored by the Propane Education & Research </i><i>Council. I was compensated for my time, all opinions are my own.</i></b></span><br />
<br />Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-61627698010223269172015-11-13T00:30:00.000-06:002015-11-13T00:30:00.069-06:00Dinner Party: Serving Wine...Only Wine.I've never did the ~holiday tablescape~ thing before. To be completely honest...I do sort of think it's a tad crazy to set up a fancy table setting just for pictures on the internet. Maybe some people really have people over after they set this all up and enjoy an elegantly styled dinner and drink fancy sounding drinks. They maybe even use those cute paper straws--and maybe they don't get soggy.<br />
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Today, I officially join the other bloggers in the crazy club--errr imaginary guest table. My mother-in-law was cleaning out her basement and gifted me some old white tableware. Plus, I had an entire day off to myself this week. Adam worked and Ben went to the sitter. I caught up on laundry, gave Scout a bath, watched reality tv (<i>90 Day Fiance</i> anyone?), and then had a little extra time to spare.<br />
Sooo there I was, setting the table for non-existent dinner guests with no fancy dinner cooking in the oven--and no plans for cocktails out of chic straws that evening.<br />
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I don't have anything to serve. Except sweet potato puffs, and wine. I always have wine.<br />
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But check out this lovely fall view of Bishop Creek.<br />
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Maybe take it all in while you enjoy a glass of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/niemergfamilywinery/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Bishop Creek Wine</a>? See what I did there?<br />
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Let's talk a minute about the blanket scarf. Every blogger in blog land seems to have one of these blanket scarves in their fall tablescape. They also seem to be wearing them all over fashion blogland. My blanket scarf is so soft, snuggly, and I love the print. But to be honest, I have not worn it more than 5 minutes. It's HOTTER THAN HECK. I mean this thing is H-O-T. I immediately have a sweat mustache about 90 seconds after it's draped over my shoulders. It does better as a little blankie on the couch, or draped over this table to be honest.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Have you ever set up your dining table with no dinner plans? </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Does your blanket scarf do more good on the couch or the table than on you?</span></b><br />
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P.S. In some of the photos above, you can see a sneaky peek of my new <a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/jute-area-rugs/benaras.php?q=benaras" target="_blank">chevron jute rug</a>. See more of it <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/11/dining-room-changes-chevron-jute-rug.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I'm loving it!Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666589827129229530.post-66486174594703373632015-11-12T11:51:00.000-06:002015-11-12T11:51:35.393-06:00Dining Room Changes: Chevron Jute Rug<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey guys! Have you noticed anything different around here? We have a new logo and a blog design thanks to my dear friend <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PorterDesignCo?ref=l2-shop-header-avatar" target="_blank">Brett</a>. Take a look around, tell me if you see something off. We still have a few more tweaks to do, but I'm <i>loving</i> the new look.<br />
I'm so excited about changes taking place in my dining room too. I found a great set of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/0LHHSFPWCX/?taken-by=ljbahblog" target="_blank">vintage school chairs </a>earlier this summer (for a serious steal) that of course will get a makeover. We've also added a makeshift coffee station-- which is a whole post for another day. Today I'm sharing our beautiful new dining room rug. <a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/" target="_blank">Natural Area Rugs</a> sent us a great rug to review, and it gives our dining room a whole new look.<br />
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Rugs can either make or break your space. I had a large wool rug below our table before this, but the shape wasn't right, and the colors weren't holding up to the foot traffic. The base color was cream. What was I thinking putting a light color under my table?<br />
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The Benaras rug from <a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Natural Area Rugs</a> still has the creamy neutral color I like, but the dark color zig-zagged into the chevron pattern into it gives it warmth and a slight modern touch. I love the the natural look, without the beachy feel I see in most Jute rugs.<br />
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This rug is chunky, but not <i>too</i> chunky. And it doesn't seem to even shed that much after the first vacuum. </div>
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Feels good on my tootsies too. It's jute, so it's not going to feel like cashmere under your toes, but it's not rough either. It's perfect for the dining room, we won't exactly be playing on the floor with Ben here. </div>
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The prices are right at <a href="http://naturalarearugs.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NaturalAreaRugs.com</a>, free shipping, and a great selection of sizes and styles. I had a hard time narrowing it down to the perfect rug. I'll probably be ordering more once our <a href="http://letsjustbuildahouse.blogspot.com/2015/09/basement-update-alternative-ceiling.html" target="_blank">basement</a> is finished.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.naturalarearugs.com/jute-area-rugs/benaras.php?q=benaras" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Benaras Jute Rug</a></td></tr>
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Oh an you should probably <a href="https://www.instagram.com/naturalarearugs/" target="_blank">follow Natural Area Rugs on Instagram</a> they have FABULOUS 24 hour giveaways all the time. My friend <a href="http://fancykins.com/" target="_blank">Hollie</a> even won one a few weeks ago! (bonus, they post cute doggie photos too!)</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">I was provided with a rug for review from Natural Area Rugs. All opinions are my own.</span></i></div>
Lets just build a house!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11852912923801704223noreply@blogger.com0