Suitcases for all uses

 

Ever since Nolan was born we have been using a vintage suitcase for 

his toys in the living room.  Pretty fun because it's like a toy box.  I can shut toys in it and they actually stay if I don't want them all throughout the house because there's a latch. I definitely recommend this to other parents...open shelving is in his bedroom because there is a door to let him in and out when I deem necessary :) The living room, not so much.  He comes and goes as he pleases and life is so much easier if toys aren't always all over the house. Sometimes I chose a few that he can use that night and keep the rest stored.  I have baby toys as well because I watch babies during the week and he doesn't need to drag those everywhere.

Here is our living room storage.

Closed!!Yeah!

Open, COFFEE TIME

Here are some other ways that make your home either clutter free or 

just decrease the amount of plastic bins. It can also be a creative decor statement with a little vintage touch.

clean and crisp

sewing bin...probably better than my endless supply of
plastic bags from various crafting stores

OH, to be this organized with crafting supplies. 

This was my first use for Nolan's toy case...sorry germifobs,
our dog did use it as a bed.

Love this in a little boys room

I think this is a chair.
Not very practical, but neat decor

Solid pop of color for a statement piece

Have a Happy Thrifting Weekend with your suitcase DIY projects. bw

Bday fun and looking forward to what this year will bring!

 This month alone will always be a busy yet fun and entertaining month for our family.  We have had our anniversary, Father's Day, Derek's birthday, and my birthday, along with some friends birthdays as well.   Every year that goes by makes me very thankful for what I have had the opportunity to do and it always brings great hopes for what the new year in our lives will bring.  

  Wondering if we will be living where we are right now. Will Nolan be in a big bed next year and potty trained...that could be a huge step or mess?  One or the other.  Who will be getting married, having kids or their own, what jobs will change, new friends, old friends coming back...there's so much that could happen in just one year?!  Will I ever finish my upholstery projects? Who knows, only God,but it's so fun to think about.  

  For Derek's birthday, anniversary and father's day gift :) I got him a table saw. He bought one a year or two ago and it went "kurplunk" a few days later with no ability to return it.  He's had to make many things like cabinet doors, counter-top bases, a t.v. stand, a computer desk, and Nolan's furniture with a freehand saw.  Much more difficult and time consuming than needed.  It was starting to make his woodworking hobby turn into a dread because everything was a little more tedious than he intended.

Here is a little tour of Nolan's vintage room that would not have been possible without Derek's wonderful talents.  We used the oeuf sparrow collection as our inspiration and I think Derek got really close.

Handmade changing table with removable pad by Derek

Nolan on changing table at 4 weeks

a vintage touch

handmade crib by Derek

old windowpane with added chalkboard paint and fabric.

Gillie made by Lonie Mae and sock monkey by my mom

Handmade curtains with added stripes of ribbon

Ever since he got his table-saw he has spent many nights getting back into the love of woodworking.  I am so excited for him and selfishly for me as well because I know I may suggest a few things to be made as well.  

I searched for toddler beds and here's what I like:

this is my favorite, but I may chose "no" footboard. Just platform with storage.

Sources: oeuf and arlington petra

SO EXCITING.  Thank you Derek.  You are truly blessed. 

Home Projects and Fun with the Chickeroos (picnic time and indoor Forts)

It 's been a really good week.  Today's Friday and I normally feel pretty pooped out by then, but I feel like I've got a little more Spring in my step.  Possible because of the sweet tea I have been drinking today.  I feel like I have gotten a lot done and started a few new projects that are doosie's. 

 

Projects:

New Chair to upholster

Accidently picked up a 100 year old bench/mini couch to upholster at garage sale

Resized a pair of vintage pants for Nolan

Cleaned House/Laundry mania

Help paint Kendra's bathroom (so fun)
Cut and sorted coupons for groceries (trying)
Did I mention clean the house!

Antique Chair

Front porch seating

Antique Bench/Couch

This will be a longer project.  This will also be front porch seating.

 Well those are my upholstery projects that I will be working on for awhile. I am pumped to get into it.

I don't have a pic of the little boy pants yet, but I will get them up next week.  

Fun with Kiddos

During our Indoor fort time

From couch to couch

Outdoor Picnic with Nolan, Lola, and Lucy (our dog)

my little photographer

pool time with friends

Delightful Designs

Found some interiors to share with you by Emily Henson. I hope to keep my eye 

out for some of these inspiring ideas.  I think that it's always good to have fresh ideas when going to the thrift stores or flea markets so you can get an overall idea for what 

styles you want in your home. 

Adorable Bathroom

I love the metal cabinet. Adds a lot of character and charm

HAVE A HAPPY FRIDAY, bw