tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61714668039840217092024-03-12T18:59:48.475-07:00Sarah, Sweet and Simple.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-39772205862680294832019-01-08T15:15:00.000-08:002019-01-09T07:42:11.500-08:00Trash to Treasure: French Provincial Dresser<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLCbjkRTKjA2JTqucHtdVwjftOPE0gAjVhnpanRYZpw1yCgS07q-7Fuj6ilHqrerJPzcuUmRd5dwKfnjliB6Kvb7XmYlhHIO7cfYDgnr49OSs_cJy0jH7oJ4mfwL20_Ls9Lul6ZKVBAg/s1600/FrenchDresser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLCbjkRTKjA2JTqucHtdVwjftOPE0gAjVhnpanRYZpw1yCgS07q-7Fuj6ilHqrerJPzcuUmRd5dwKfnjliB6Kvb7XmYlhHIO7cfYDgnr49OSs_cJy0jH7oJ4mfwL20_Ls9Lul6ZKVBAg/s640/FrenchDresser.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Hey Friends! </div>
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This project was a true labor of love. I honestly cried when I got this baby from the curb and into my apartment. For starters, I had been crushing on a piece like this one for so long. It's a really classic piece, with charming character and a price tag ranging from 1,000 - 2,000 US dollars (ha!),I just had to have it! </div>
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<b>The backstory</b>: I was walking home from the grocery store when I spotted this piece on the curb with some other beauties (I passed on those). I went home and dropped of the groceries and went back to see the dresser up close and personal. While doing my inspection, a neighbor saw me take out the drawers and stack them on my dolly and he asks me "what are you going to do with it?" and I said "paint it" then he says, "give me a second, I'll help you" When I got back from dropping off the drawers in my apartment lobby, I returned to pick up the rest. My kind neighbor Isaac had it propped on an industrial dolly, ready for me to push it down the two blocks to my place. He even helped me maneuver it across the street and to my door. I was truly grateful and impressed. He had to be in his late sixties. (Thank you again Isaac Mazel Tov!)</div>
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Here is what the piece looked like before... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg0pSaYAAsfa_JX1HLIKbMa4oxmjSPUwghTqgyXSHHpQmBNhLDy9be4kOeDI3s5fZlJcT3KBhibpa-3tJYvZTHxPQl86761fwxUYOXvFzOO2WwLzrow03qX9RkYYYE4QuEzzQDD5KIno/s1600/2016+November+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg0pSaYAAsfa_JX1HLIKbMa4oxmjSPUwghTqgyXSHHpQmBNhLDy9be4kOeDI3s5fZlJcT3KBhibpa-3tJYvZTHxPQl86761fwxUYOXvFzOO2WwLzrow03qX9RkYYYE4QuEzzQDD5KIno/s640/2016+November+004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had it stand vertically, because I had nowhere to put it, so it sat in my hallway until I was able to dedicate time to work on it. It was about 6ft tall!</div>
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When I was finally ready to get to work, I had to use the boys room. This meant camping the kids in our room for about a week and covering their toys and things with drop clothes and sheets.</div>
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The surface had lots of deep scratches and stains that needed seriously sanding. I used my handheld electronic sander to smooth it out as best as possible. I didn't worry too much about the stain, which wasn't going away with the sander, I had stain blocking primer in my paint. Score!<br />
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Here's how I turned this trashed piece into a true treasure:</h4>
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1. I started with my drawers. I had limited space, if I had started with the body, it would eat up the majority of my work space and I wouldn't be able to spread out the drawers. The body was set aside, vertically by the boys bunk beds, while I put down my painting tarp and tended to the drawers.</div>
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Removing the handles was tricky, it's a vintage piece so one handle came with three pieces, so you better believe I was NOT going to replace them!</div>
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2. I then cleaned the surface of each drawer with a water and vinegar mixture. and began to give each drawer their first coat. I ended up giving them 3 coats. The dresser was going to go in my room. It was going to be used often, I wanted it to handle the abuse. :)</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ixPY2KmqNA/WFdMb_eXohI/AAAAAAAAQJ0/ea3Li3Ao8C0W3w_18_WiiTVZ7kPTmmx0wCPcB/s1600/2016%2BNovember%2B007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ixPY2KmqNA/WFdMb_eXohI/AAAAAAAAQJ0/ea3Li3Ao8C0W3w_18_WiiTVZ7kPTmmx0wCPcB/s640/2016%2BNovember%2B007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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3. When the 3rd coat finally dried on day 2, I was able to move the drawers away from my work space and separate them throughout the room. It was time to start to sand and paint the rest of the dresser.</div>
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4. I began to paint the sides of the dresser (always paint the top surface - last). I lined the thinner portions with a thin foam brush and used a 4 inch paint brush to do the rest. It was easier to use a brush than a roller brush because there the dresser had lots of grooves and detail that a roller brush wouldn't cover, In fact, it could drench and fill the carvings with paint.</div>
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Here's the end result...</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OJEN6SCgMrnj5Lni-N0h4vL_MgDNdwsjKGgiFuP6WaMIBFwRxvDu-4BIzWk9M8wZ5pebkdh68plCbk1wgQr66oyKJNIM356dZ1Df2capW90Uxx5tvh8MTCthyrm9sKgv6XkMW7JC2ak/s1600/20180927_131444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OJEN6SCgMrnj5Lni-N0h4vL_MgDNdwsjKGgiFuP6WaMIBFwRxvDu-4BIzWk9M8wZ5pebkdh68plCbk1wgQr66oyKJNIM356dZ1Df2capW90Uxx5tvh8MTCthyrm9sKgv6XkMW7JC2ak/s640/20180927_131444.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This piece is a true testament that someone else's trash is really someone else's treasure. </div>
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I just LOVE her. </div>
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Hope this post inspires you to transform something old into something new and if you do, share it with me on Instagram or Facebook, I'd love to see it.</div>
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Cheers!</div>
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Sarah</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-36447300086102533712018-10-04T10:40:00.002-07:002018-10-05T07:12:25.500-07:00{ Thrift to Treasure }: China Cabinet Makeover & Painting Tutorial!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hey Friends!</div>
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Ever have a vision for something and you just can't shake it from your mind and then... like a miracle... it suddenly appears?? Well this is a story about the day a dream came true.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGUo8kyl7-GRCCHmx5IQWzxR0YhNVtDgCmruNGHlrxRf1TS0ckM5VejbEASpo1Ig7Btp1EiqOjR6APtD79cRfos8_56cOwSsPHItkbhcDptUzD7jL_p48bFcQ96LFdhRb2CKQsBwU5DU/s1600/chinacabinetPROMO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGUo8kyl7-GRCCHmx5IQWzxR0YhNVtDgCmruNGHlrxRf1TS0ckM5VejbEASpo1Ig7Btp1EiqOjR6APtD79cRfos8_56cOwSsPHItkbhcDptUzD7jL_p48bFcQ96LFdhRb2CKQsBwU5DU/s640/chinacabinetPROMO.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2015/05/thrift-store-treasures-kitchen.html" target="_blank">Two years ago</a>, I purchased this China cabinet at a local thrift store for $25 dollars! I had been wanting a piece like this for so long so when I saw it standing tall and shabby at the thrift I just had to bring her home! Her name is Ophelia :) What I loved most was the size; not too big or bulky or even heavy! It was perfect for our apartment size dining space. The color however, not so much.<br />
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I didn't tackle the makeover right away to be honest with you. I was just happy to have her! I gave her a good clean and then I stuffed her until my heart was content! </div>
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I finally had a place to display all my pretty things. </div>
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Here's how I turned this shabby China cabinet into my dream Chic cabinet!</div>
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FIRST STEP: </div>
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Protect the glass! I used painters tape to line the edges of the mirror, using a credit card to smooth the tape under the wood for better coverage, otherwise the paint will seep through the smallest crack!</div>
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I also took this time to remove all the hardware. Even you plan to spray paint the hardware, removing it ensures that you paint all of the wood on the piece smoothly and evenly. </div>
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SECOND STEP:</div>
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Wipe your piece clean. Even though I cleaned the piece upon arrival, I wanted to make sure there were no dust particles that could interfere with the paint. You can use a mixture of white vinegar, water and dish soap to give it a good clean. Wipe any residue with a damp cloth and then dry it with a hand towel. Whenever I buy or find a used piece, I take my blow dryer and scan the crevices with high heat to destroy any possible bugs that could be lingering. </div>
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THIRD STEP:</div>
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Prepare your space for paint. Unfortunately I didn't take pictures or video of me working on this project (when I'm in the zone, I'M.IN.THE.ZONE). But here's my best tips to get the best paint job on any piece of furniture:</div>
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1. Clean your piece thoroughly</div>
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2. Remove all the hardware (and keep it all together in a baggie, thank me later)</div>
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3. If you <u>can</u> remove doors and drawers, do it and paint them separately</div>
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4. Choose paint in a semi-gloss or satin. If you want a high gloss finish use a clear Polyacrylic and to seal and gloss your finished painted piece use a Polyurethane. Or a clear wax to protect your piece from scratches or peeling.</div>
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5. Chalk-paint is ideal if you like a rustic, matted look and it dries so fast, its also fool-proof</div>
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6. Use a drop cloth and slide it under your piece. You WILL get paint on your floor or carpet, trust me... I should know.</div>
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7. Use a brush and small foam roll to paint furniture. The brush is great for smaller areas while the foam roller will cover the wider areas nicely</div>
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8. Don't wear your nice stuff. Use grocery bags on your feet if you must. </div>
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9. Let dry at least 2 hours before a 2nd or 3rd coat. </div>
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10. Embrace any "mistakes", it honestly gives your piece charm and character. It will always be YOUR labor of love, no one else's.</div>
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Here is Ophelia today...</h3>
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In the last 2 years I've started to use the china cabinet to hold most of our dishes and glassware. </div>
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<br /> I love to style her for the holidays! This was the layout in 2016.</h4>
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This Fall, I kept the styling to a minimum. A pumpkin here and there ;)<br />
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I'm currently organizing the drawers, follow me on Instagram @SarahSweetandSimple and you'll get a sneak peek this weekend!</div>
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Cheers!</div>
Sarah</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-62945780953695025462018-09-25T11:14:00.001-07:002018-09-25T11:14:14.298-07:00{ Trash to Treasure }: Kitchen Sideboard - 2018 Update!<div style="text-align: center;">
Last week on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sarahsweetandsimple/" target="_blank">SSS FaceBook page</a> I shared one of my favorite furniture flip projects I've done [<span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2016/01/from-shabby-to-chic-kitchen-sideboard.html" target="_blank">see it </a></span><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2016/01/from-shabby-to-chic-kitchen-sideboard.html" target="_blank">here</a>]. </span><span style="background-color: white;">and I mentioned that I've since changed the look of my kitchen, so here it is!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><i>Be warned</i>, that my kitchen is on the small side. I wanted a "sideboard" to add more surface space and additional, much needed, storage. I got rid of my teal dresser because it was too big and I needed a more compact version. I didn't have to look much further than my own living room... this piece went under major renovation and has been used for many different purposes [<a href="https://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2016/09/small-space-solution-baby-wall.html" target="_blank">SEE IT HERE</a>] </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">So far, this piece has exceeded my expectations and doesn't take over the entire wall, yay!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scored the 3-Tier dish at a garage sale for $5. SWEET!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWs2FxHWSxhX88jp3S1XMJ05hig5t_vfupNK1YkUtXybDa-CMkTgjXIWfTwYcdhR1d9jPvWYUjcSASSh_xyaBNvjv7C8WPjojkQivz7pPC5kshkfLOe3HChD7FdofEH4h20aG6Bl9HH4/s1600/20180925_114639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWs2FxHWSxhX88jp3S1XMJ05hig5t_vfupNK1YkUtXybDa-CMkTgjXIWfTwYcdhR1d9jPvWYUjcSASSh_xyaBNvjv7C8WPjojkQivz7pPC5kshkfLOe3HChD7FdofEH4h20aG6Bl9HH4/s640/20180925_114639.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I like to keep a lot of foods that are usually found on the counter in glass food containers. Food packaging tends to be very busy especially when you have a mix of products and brands. When poured into glass containers, it leaves the counters looking really organized but yet serving it's purpose. That's my idea of a win/win.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kZsGBmz4mRl6A2Qi0JvVxKyB4rQRvkHNdzRZR30ohSUMiNmVbQyodAWz2HK9rBzRw1bu1HbdzzqwwaQYnJKYNtWKR6WnvM5MHAT-5XeoAVv4icKD_mbDpKqWp6FwgdAU0cVLeROMZkQ/s1600/20180925_112340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kZsGBmz4mRl6A2Qi0JvVxKyB4rQRvkHNdzRZR30ohSUMiNmVbQyodAWz2HK9rBzRw1bu1HbdzzqwwaQYnJKYNtWKR6WnvM5MHAT-5XeoAVv4icKD_mbDpKqWp6FwgdAU0cVLeROMZkQ/s640/20180925_112340.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I spray painted the original hardware with Rust-Oleum: Oil Rubbed Bronze, which I LOVE. It has a matte finish but also leaves a little shimmer behind and it gives it a really beautiful almost authentic finish.</div>
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The bottom drawer pulls were from Amazon. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQOOi_zeQAQhJOdaS_QclCerAecqVYYnBRoK839vTaSYIBmV0ohugC3_MdVg0VZj9gB4R1CqvzLuCouomQTK5916ZOWQneU1rjecfkGK8at8v-05-4QVaKHiwxJL-YX0DCdDAJlJwTzY/s1600/20180924_114444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQOOi_zeQAQhJOdaS_QclCerAecqVYYnBRoK839vTaSYIBmV0ohugC3_MdVg0VZj9gB4R1CqvzLuCouomQTK5916ZOWQneU1rjecfkGK8at8v-05-4QVaKHiwxJL-YX0DCdDAJlJwTzY/s400/20180924_114444.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8NDdApJ1aqppXYe0qx9Ih4vIyO7v1_2G_F5aBP-sfN0amI89GUUWWUpWpUJhcnBqCfsFH2h31XyEeeOvjDL-_-YJ3ydkvUPBMC0Jqcq_rmFvwRlc00_NKL89ZnqN8hDcOOc8v6cZhwc/s1600/20180924_114550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8NDdApJ1aqppXYe0qx9Ih4vIyO7v1_2G_F5aBP-sfN0amI89GUUWWUpWpUJhcnBqCfsFH2h31XyEeeOvjDL-_-YJ3ydkvUPBMC0Jqcq_rmFvwRlc00_NKL89ZnqN8hDcOOc8v6cZhwc/s640/20180924_114550.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nice, right?? L.O.V.E.</div>
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A glance at the recent before:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOK0-Dr3B9iy-eDlu8C4OmQQStcT0bYz_54aZDSdnvFfSHvK4_9bOHRxB19R8mT8S_hRucQ_hqG0HUPlRW3StDb0dS6gnmt79LtLMpO0Df3wZFnjjAcFGOZh7hjKwcXO-0F-8xNxSknzg/s1600/20180924_115249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOK0-Dr3B9iy-eDlu8C4OmQQStcT0bYz_54aZDSdnvFfSHvK4_9bOHRxB19R8mT8S_hRucQ_hqG0HUPlRW3StDb0dS6gnmt79LtLMpO0Df3wZFnjjAcFGOZh7hjKwcXO-0F-8xNxSknzg/s640/20180924_115249.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">eeeeeek!!!</td></tr>
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I used 2 coats of Benjamin Moore Dove White. My go-to shade for white furniture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJff72ZWK1wzrWlDeEWL3aeJ_mgWzs3BMn6yGE5FEF_qi1nbmVgKaD-wPKPR17GTY0MTtql9SDj4Cs4lnClZsiO957oha8VfKzUqaD1oQn-PCigfGJH3E_sJ0pfMmRWhE7xvuH4W95jI/s1600/20180924_165543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJff72ZWK1wzrWlDeEWL3aeJ_mgWzs3BMn6yGE5FEF_qi1nbmVgKaD-wPKPR17GTY0MTtql9SDj4Cs4lnClZsiO957oha8VfKzUqaD1oQn-PCigfGJH3E_sJ0pfMmRWhE7xvuH4W95jI/s640/20180924_165543.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The blue crates also got a paint job. I didn't take a before because it was a spontenous decision. I mixed a bit of teal paint I had with the Dove White, it was a very close shade to the original color, just now it's in much nicer condition.</div>
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Let's have a peak inside, shall we?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ll6FvrVgvEeV58Pqt6gpoeTs-51zysV5OO97gW2bXLa-kdluouECGQA5pTGhhD9suSkH56H7E9q9SDHngzvHNAu7rvzoe6kXmZ4EMAWb0kJcwxW2jT9Bq_PBW2pPtbuZErjdJjXrSlc/s1600/20180925_114350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ll6FvrVgvEeV58Pqt6gpoeTs-51zysV5OO97gW2bXLa-kdluouECGQA5pTGhhD9suSkH56H7E9q9SDHngzvHNAu7rvzoe6kXmZ4EMAWb0kJcwxW2jT9Bq_PBW2pPtbuZErjdJjXrSlc/s640/20180925_114350.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The top-left drawer is reserved for food containers! Storage containers tend to take over cabinets and drawers, we're definitely guilty of it. Having a small drawer however forces us to keep our stash to a limit. Now that the kids are in school, we have their lunch containers in here. (I'll share more about these containers on IG, follow me @SarahSweetandSimple!)</div>
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Underneath the food storage containers (bottom-left): kitchen towels, aprons, tea towels etc. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIaZeRIj0xboI_n8P5uABXc7Iz37svldSWLm-Yd2Fts44DUGFvglJk7TIRH2oENNH6Z3Pi-d7Kp8OigJaNTOYGLbdnESxpfzjCJXlSj-H2gnbOYw9Md7oT1yjYZ1eM986kyxa0AsO6vw/s1600/20180925_114430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIaZeRIj0xboI_n8P5uABXc7Iz37svldSWLm-Yd2Fts44DUGFvglJk7TIRH2oENNH6Z3Pi-d7Kp8OigJaNTOYGLbdnESxpfzjCJXlSj-H2gnbOYw9Md7oT1yjYZ1eM986kyxa0AsO6vw/s640/20180925_114430.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The top-right drawer holds all of the other essentials: storage baggies and rolls of aluminum and parchment paper. I also leave a couple of Sharpies so I can immediately label baggies when necessary (which is almost always).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5jUpGLataE0SR3_iEdOwzA1HJe2EToWZa5pZec_LrNMFqKm8YM8Gzlrq3FUjhEP4I2O4LfRdZM_WUKXST5n9RohHYLlEGbmtt2c_ddq_ZtDelMxp-xS3Y2FZVJoN1Kn6e17hVFa8Q5Y/s1600/20180925_114452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5jUpGLataE0SR3_iEdOwzA1HJe2EToWZa5pZec_LrNMFqKm8YM8Gzlrq3FUjhEP4I2O4LfRdZM_WUKXST5n9RohHYLlEGbmtt2c_ddq_ZtDelMxp-xS3Y2FZVJoN1Kn6e17hVFa8Q5Y/s640/20180925_114452.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Bottom-right drawer is other miscellaneous but often used kitchen supplies: Lids to our mason jars and straws, as well as lids to our Bullet machine and the kids ice cream bowls. The set-up was created so the kids could independently "help themselves", it's been a game changer.</div>
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And what's on the blue crates, you ask?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieo_g70h89MgdGBJI8sr-QoYCHrjpdpoZ6E2MOyZ6igYegRbtFVQna2ZchuHFe0xZ6DIq3kmGaIuEgBSCgtUL-_zlKKwwJI50Gkgj4wpK9AfJ5G_ZVrxE9TW8hj2OdBxtQUEfgdrGXdlU/s1600/20180925_114623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieo_g70h89MgdGBJI8sr-QoYCHrjpdpoZ6E2MOyZ6igYegRbtFVQna2ZchuHFe0xZ6DIq3kmGaIuEgBSCgtUL-_zlKKwwJI50Gkgj4wpK9AfJ5G_ZVrxE9TW8hj2OdBxtQUEfgdrGXdlU/s640/20180925_114623.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2s06TWjlLE27UvEsLI9SdWpzF5gi6_RddfZX91xh6_HWklXIW6mrf7uzoG_Bz1KA4Mur7pcnK90xAZ_9dqDNOL6hIoEPHR53RlLLiKdeU8zy_ju0kua-hVwVfi1nvTFeVkcwv47zwNVU/s1600/20180925_114522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2s06TWjlLE27UvEsLI9SdWpzF5gi6_RddfZX91xh6_HWklXIW6mrf7uzoG_Bz1KA4Mur7pcnK90xAZ_9dqDNOL6hIoEPHR53RlLLiKdeU8zy_ju0kua-hVwVfi1nvTFeVkcwv47zwNVU/s640/20180925_114522.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My tools. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFM1hyphenhyphena91DOnXa_1w3tczKA25kAL2MnVNRM3es1MoIbIScEgy1hjg00dDUlB9qE2ClvljWUNplJX5_o4I1RNMfxawFkW2i26z9atZwIv3Ug4szXJkRXjV7aYYxqglMQfOFI42jE0uY-_0/s1600/20180925_114613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFM1hyphenhyphena91DOnXa_1w3tczKA25kAL2MnVNRM3es1MoIbIScEgy1hjg00dDUlB9qE2ClvljWUNplJX5_o4I1RNMfxawFkW2i26z9atZwIv3Ug4szXJkRXjV7aYYxqglMQfOFI42jE0uY-_0/s640/20180925_114613.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Truth is, I access my tools at LEAST once a day. I'm always making or fixing something. I need easy access to them at all times. Having them in the open space of the dresser was ideal, I just didn't like LOOKING at my tools - so I used these blue crates which are pretty and practical. Score.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPw8I0p8jMaT32tEwlB6MpswCLIwnC-RqeipdNc7kXfBGK-BpG7kiBJGYOiiIVsyuKE1HVSVm_Vn5p9mrJBAkitwyc-UBY15iwOTUtnDgJK4fZGsVQX1bO3OoMr8uaIMMe1hxeHRX7QU/s1600/20180925_112140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPw8I0p8jMaT32tEwlB6MpswCLIwnC-RqeipdNc7kXfBGK-BpG7kiBJGYOiiIVsyuKE1HVSVm_Vn5p9mrJBAkitwyc-UBY15iwOTUtnDgJK4fZGsVQX1bO3OoMr8uaIMMe1hxeHRX7QU/s640/20180925_112140.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">There you have it! My current kitchen sideboard!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I do have a beautiful white IKEA hutch beside this sideboard... it will be going under a much needed makeover. My poor girl has seen better days! I promise to share a before and after. </span></div>
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Meanwhile, please share this post and leave me a comment with your thoughts and questions!</div>
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T H A N K YOU!</div>
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Cheers,<br />
Sarah</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-1634176128489420062018-09-19T19:22:00.000-07:002018-09-19T19:22:28.334-07:002 Budget-Friendly Homework Caddies!<br />
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Hi friends!<br />
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I don't know about you, but Homework time can be quite daunting trying to get all the kids to cooperate and focus. That's why I make sure to limit distractions; no electronics at the table, TV off and a fully equipped "Homework Caddy" with all the supplies our kids may need to complete their work effectively.<br />
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This year we have a 6th grader, a 4th grader, a Kindergartner, and a Pre-Kindergartner. They each have different needs when it comes to homework, therefore I've customized two caddy's; one for my older boys and another for my younger two kids.<br />
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Here's what I have in the caddy for my older kids (8 & 11 y.o.)<br />
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This caddy was a curbside find! It could be used for so many different things but I liked it for this purpose, it just looks great on display wherever I put it; usually its on my kitchen table. But as you can see below, my other caddy just cost me $1 at Dollar Tree!<br />
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What you'll need:<br />
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<li>No. 2 Pencils - pre-sharpened</li>
<li>Pencil sharpener </li>
<li>Calculator (I don't encourage them to use it, but we keep it handy to check their work)</li>
<li>Glue - we rarely use this for homework but always need it when they're given a project</li>
<li>Ruler </li>
<li>Scissors</li>
<li>Timer - I use the little hourglass from our Taboo game. We use it when our kids are practicing their "no hesitation math". You can use it when your kid studies flash cards!</li>
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In the cute tin jars (from IKEA) I keep the supplies I want to keep out of their reach or need to contain in one place. </div>
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<li>Markers and Sharpies</li>
<li>Pens - Blue, Black and Red</li>
<li>Erasers - can't ever have too many erasers! <i>we all make mistakes :)</i></li>
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<b><i>SPEND WELL</i></b></div>
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You can find ALL of these supplies at your local dollar store. However, I've learned some supplies are worth the splurge just because the quality saves you time, frustration or even just a better outcome on paper: Ticonderoga No.2 pencils are the real deal. They sharpen well, the lead doesn't snap right away and the eraser never leaves a smudge! The other is Crayola color pencils or crayons. They're highly pigmented so color is vibrant and applies evenly.</div>
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For my younger children (4 & 5 y.o.) I included the following:<br />
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<li>Pencils - pre-sharpened</li>
<li>Sharpener</li>
<li>A practice pad - my younger two are still working on penmanship, in this pad I use a highlighter to write letters and numbers which I then have the kids trace with their pencil as a warm up before they start their homework</li>
<li>Crayons and markers - keep them engaged during tasks with some doodle time for a mental break</li>
<li>Stickers - rewards that aren't expected are the best kind! Stick a sticker on your kids hand or face when they're trying extra hard, or they came to the table without being called more than twice, or when they've put away their backpack. Acknowledging every bit of effort helps kids determine what is right and what is wrong.</li>
<li>Sight Words flashcards - I use these cards as a "game" between writing or counting work. For example: I say the word, they repeat and then I place 3 cards on the table and ask them to find the word "Me" and have them follow the sounds of the letters they hear or remember seeing. </li>
<li>Blank index cards - to make flashcards (have these on hands to make flashcards based on letters, numbers or words your kids struggle with)</li>
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I imagine you've already invested in supplies for the classroom and supplies for your child's backpack, But you should equip your home with these necessary supplies. Shopping your local dollar store will save you a lot of money. Having your own system helps control the madness... at least some of it.<br />
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<b><i>WHY A CADDY?</i></b><br />
The idea of the caddy is to keep you and your kids organized and productive. Have all the supplies you need, right when you need them. Another reason I love the caddy? It travels from room to room. So if you don't have an office or desk, just a kitchen table like many of us - you and your kid are ready to work.<br />
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<b><i>WHERE TO STORE IT?</i></b><br />
If space is an issue at home, ss far as storing it goes; think UP. Try the top of the fridge, or mount a small shelf just for the kids things. I find it best to keep my older's caddy where they can grab it themselves and the caddy for my smaller children, on the fridge.</div>
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<b><i>WHAT ELSE CAN I DO TO MAKE HOMEWORK TIME MORE PRODUCTIVE?</i></b><br />
Again, limit electronics and TV during homework time. In addition, have a snack ready for the kids to munch on while they work. Apple slices, fresh popcorn or pretzels are my go-to. I also know my kids always need water at all times so I have cold water in their water bottles at arms reach. And finally, take breaks! I know this means homework time is even longer but you'll get more out of your kid's when they're fresh for a new task. Have them stretch, color a picture, play rock paper scissors!<br />
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How do you get your kids ready for homework time?? I'd love to hear your best practices!</div>
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Cheers!<br />
Sarah</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-76966636584665489542018-09-10T10:30:00.000-07:002018-09-13T17:39:27.382-07:00Sweet & Simple Ways to Organize: Paperwork!<br />
This post was inspired by my recent need to tame the clutter of paperwork in my home. I can't imagine anyone who enjoys turning their house upside looking for that one document they didn't think they'd need, until that moment they realize it is like, <i>really </i>important after all.<br />
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Everyone should have a way of storing their important paperwork such as birth certificates, passports and tax documents. If you don't, keep reading. But its all the other <i>stuff</i> that we don't consider so important that usually end up in piles on your desk or stuffed in a box under the bed or even in that infamous junk drawer. Clearly, you're not the only one. I've been there for sure, too many times.<br />
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<b>The light-bulb moment</b>.<br />
Everything changed when I had my first child. It was shortly after my baby shower and we were un-boxing all the amazing baby gear we had received. All of which came with a Manual of Instructions. All of the manuals ended up on a baby box in my son's dresser where we could access it at any given time for any given reason; like when your baby swing suddenly stops swinging and you've got a sleep-deprived Momma and one cranky new-born. Yeah, that simple box in the drawer was our saving grace. But then that box was stuffed to the max with every manual we ever encountered (80% of them from IKEA) and going through it was like trying to find a needle in a haystack. And thus, my system was born:<br />
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Introducing my $2 or less organizing system for <b>PAPERWORK</b>!<br />
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1. <b>Manual Madness</b><br />
We save every manual we ever receive. When we buy a new appliance or the kids get a new toy for their birthday, I take the manual and put it in this $2 accordion file folder. I also keep instruction manuals for any furnishings and warranties for electronics. What we weren't doing was getting rid of the manual when we got rid of the article/product. A recent purge helped me clear my house and this file folder! That extra step kept us organized for sure.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organizing the manuals by category helps other members of the family find what they need and put things back in place.</td></tr>
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2. <b>The Wonder Years... </b><br />
I created the simplest school year capsule: a plastic envelope from the dollar just $2, one for each child. Here I save report cards, class pictures, art pieces, writing samples, awards or notes from teachers and friends. I only want to remember this chapter of their lives, not relive it. I don't need EVERY piece of homework he ever completed or ever drawing she ever made, sweet and simple.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I purchased 3 of each color for future years.</td></tr>
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3. <b>Parents Get Homework Too...</b><br />
When the kids come from school, I go through their backpacks and take out all of the forms, notices and calendars sent by each school for each of my kids (we are proud members for 3 different schools!) I know I won't be able to read each document until I put the kids to bed, so I created my own system to avoid the pile of papers on the dinner table or anywhere for that matter. I upcycled last year's plastic folders (which only cost .50 from Staples!) and labeled each one with the kids names. I take any document that requires my attention and place them in their at-home folder and place the folders in my <b><u>command center</u></b>. I make it my routine to review all the docs, sign what needs my signature, record any important dates in my planner and respond to any notes from the teachers by returning the completed docs back in the kids to-school communication folder, which the teachers receive. And to keep me accountable; I set a reminder on my phone to review my folders every night. The #goal is to keep you organized and informed.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always buy your kids PLASTIC folders, they hold up all year. These were too good to toss.</td></tr>
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4. <b>Important</b> <b>Family Records</b><br />
In a simple plastic envelope folder ($1!), I keep original docs such as Birth Certificates, SS cards and passports. I have these in a safe/secured place but also readily available in case of an emergency; Hint: under the bed!). I used to keep the kids immunizations in here until I found myself forgetting to take it for appointments. Now I keep them in a zipper envelope so I can grab and go from my <u><b>command center. </b></u><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Labels from Dollar Tree $1 for 50!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKV0pgsJguXmrOEpGUbN-0lA3U-Fb1tJsz8cC2F__R3HMsAonoajT9pJwajmhdSb21DL6nUyaWN5PE0cYmIgCm9vl3_W41VxKHeu9BfBgyJTNUMLjKUasbuRzvcmV9qy12UO0ke8mJ1s/s1600/20180909_145349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKV0pgsJguXmrOEpGUbN-0lA3U-Fb1tJsz8cC2F__R3HMsAonoajT9pJwajmhdSb21DL6nUyaWN5PE0cYmIgCm9vl3_W41VxKHeu9BfBgyJTNUMLjKUasbuRzvcmV9qy12UO0ke8mJ1s/s640/20180909_145349.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used sheet protectors to keep Birth Certificates from fading or rips</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnwAKBkMKA1CyLI506aBnWJiE2OzIS67ldUaRncrN7-yGiy9OVJoML7XaiUj6VZ0HQRqscSZLSmsxVU3-sPzODROdvHjQJD5mV8I_qhlXHxaGgPl3YSXAqeo19mkNymTN2w7zoqW-bxU/s1600/20180909_143606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnwAKBkMKA1CyLI506aBnWJiE2OzIS67ldUaRncrN7-yGiy9OVJoML7XaiUj6VZ0HQRqscSZLSmsxVU3-sPzODROdvHjQJD5mV8I_qhlXHxaGgPl3YSXAqeo19mkNymTN2w7zoqW-bxU/s640/20180909_143606.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The envelope is waterproof in case of any spills in my bag. </td></tr>
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As for that command center I've referenced in this post; here's a direct link to a post I put together last year and it's still going strong to this day!<br />
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I do hope you find this post helpful! Do tell me your thoughts. And if you have any great ways to organize the paperwork in your home, please share them with me! I love to learn different ways to get the job done!<br />
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Cheers!<br />
Sarah<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-49275174278299770692018-09-06T14:01:00.000-07:002018-09-09T18:26:38.275-07:00Welcome Back to School Basket - for Kids!Hi Friends!<br />
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Today, I have special treat for the kids! It's a "Welcome Back to School Basket" filled with goodies to help them kick off the new school year successfully.</div>
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I came up with this concept after doing something similar with their stocking-stuffers - buying them basic life necessities; like new power toothbrush and character band-aids as gifts! And it works!</div>
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Objective: Equip your child with everything they may need to face the facts, their friends, their fears and more... in a simple gift basket made by Mom and Dad.</div>
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Consider your child's age and grade, here's some fun items to consider for your basket. </div>
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<li>A new tooth brush & personal mouth wash. Hygiene is crucial at any age, get them exited about taking care of themselves</li>
<li>Mini sand timer - did you know your kids should brush their teeth a total of 2 minutes? And they should wash their hands as long as it takes to sing "Happy Birthday"!</li>
<li>Back pack charms or new hair accessories</li>
<li>Toiletry goods - deodorant, yummy smelling body wash and moisturizers</li>
<li>Backpack zipper pouch with kid-friendly essentials like tissue pack, hand-sanitizer and lip balm</li>
<li>Got a kid in junior high? Get them Locker accessories and organizers!</li>
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Here's a quick snap shot of the basket I made my daughter. My youngest got something similar basket with Paw Patrol and Thomas the Train goodies.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLjuwafRQkVEoVuDilGA6tgRnmdoNnSHOO2oTJL7UCghX1D1_5N0Gdk8WuwaHN5eF3X3KVdXhYrWU4T3e56FOlpcsPNyg9Smrky5Iyam6A56vjyvlfwXLisBwBF6ELi4UhbJI0j42cib4/s1600/20180909_162936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLjuwafRQkVEoVuDilGA6tgRnmdoNnSHOO2oTJL7UCghX1D1_5N0Gdk8WuwaHN5eF3X3KVdXhYrWU4T3e56FOlpcsPNyg9Smrky5Iyam6A56vjyvlfwXLisBwBF6ELi4UhbJI0j42cib4/s640/20180909_162936.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter started Kindergarten and LOVED this little basket of goodies.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJzsen-7IrY5KFT7W_Fk15XMa_qIUZEvW8ppIDe-fsw8NRD1hk8SzKL256npgL2Nd-Gb0xD7uHjC3eAndAGC1g82MkvwYL1wDA5VncQ8ioieTF1lMsPK7dRcSN1RKrPWj0FJxABYcb-k/s1600/20180909_163111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1271" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJzsen-7IrY5KFT7W_Fk15XMa_qIUZEvW8ppIDe-fsw8NRD1hk8SzKL256npgL2Nd-Gb0xD7uHjC3eAndAGC1g82MkvwYL1wDA5VncQ8ioieTF1lMsPK7dRcSN1RKrPWj0FJxABYcb-k/s640/20180909_163111.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can score all these items at the Dollar Tree!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4EjTTglo0MR8yJIbVJgnIKr6N1MfonXeKvLzffO4WSUS2APQR4yHlAlGrTqjwF1H8YI9K3n6n8QDFHYPP2TKAQ_zmQJGZCiUVE9hyphenhyphene0HSlFUS8Jy1TOfQh7QXYX6160LV7O8dsanyVU/s1600/20180909_163142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4EjTTglo0MR8yJIbVJgnIKr6N1MfonXeKvLzffO4WSUS2APQR4yHlAlGrTqjwF1H8YI9K3n6n8QDFHYPP2TKAQ_zmQJGZCiUVE9hyphenhyphene0HSlFUS8Jy1TOfQh7QXYX6160LV7O8dsanyVU/s640/20180909_163142.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little pouch came with my son's backpack. He just started Pre-K and I just know I'll need these items often as we walk to school or home.</td></tr>
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My older boys didn't get such a presentation, they're been down this road already so I just organized their toiletries in their backpacks a couple of days before school started. But I did add body spray for my oldest - he was pretty excited about that. Sweet and Simple kid baskets but totally effective, my kids loved it.</div>
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Anything you would add to this list or something you'd omit? Let me know your thoughts!</div>
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Cheers!<br />
Sarah</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-27824385581495353122016-12-01T12:22:00.000-08:002016-12-01T12:30:24.106-08:00{ Trash to Treasure } Accent Chairs Before & After!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OGAFAL-L3QVB0TfE8CL8d7Cm7SS0j9w7U9B7zUBbRZNqX6EpUkbgglk-4PRyAt0WNTICPyGmfm2wPIC1QS8dPkbQhtPbnZ6V5QNho-VV7lmbSE9QeIkL2MLJznYZoY3EuvDDyAQOrlQ/s1600/Chairs.BA.PinFinal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OGAFAL-L3QVB0TfE8CL8d7Cm7SS0j9w7U9B7zUBbRZNqX6EpUkbgglk-4PRyAt0WNTICPyGmfm2wPIC1QS8dPkbQhtPbnZ6V5QNho-VV7lmbSE9QeIkL2MLJznYZoY3EuvDDyAQOrlQ/s640/Chairs.BA.PinFinal.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have a confession: I love to make old things new. I really really do. I've been doing this so for as long as I can remember. Like when I was 10, I would make Barbie clothes out of old clothes and orphan socks (strapless dresses #allday). As I got older, I was into hardcore up-cycling: shoe boxes into glam memory boxes (still do it to this day!) and upgrading my wardrobe with bleach, paint or scissors. But today, nothing gets me going like flipping furniture, oh yeah!</div>
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Take my latest furniture flip as the perfect example.</div>
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I found these chairs and turned their dark, dreadful exterior into something I could live with - literately and figuratively. The BEST art however, is that this project only cost me a total of $13!!</div>
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The chairs = FREE, I found them up the block, around the corner. True story.</div>
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The Fabric = $4.00 A Target Threshold <i>curtain </i>from the Goodwill (<a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-linen-look-fretwork-curtain-panel/-/A-16558566" target="_blank">$24 original price</a>)</div>
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The Paint = $9 Behr Paint, from Home Depot's "Oops Paint" selection; paint left behind by a customer)</div>
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Total = $13<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDDZxDNoSmAgdQPyCh1gtpcZz2FMGu1tskQVl_0FJB5SvIM7qO16M65_AgFBX7oUWR80epnTWE2dB94EXqeH94Nc-wEtq-4Jq93fOzw7wNPP_8BYRFsBbHcYqBD4vpDt4CmtNLpzjOVk/s1600/After.SSS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDDZxDNoSmAgdQPyCh1gtpcZz2FMGu1tskQVl_0FJB5SvIM7qO16M65_AgFBX7oUWR80epnTWE2dB94EXqeH94Nc-wEtq-4Jq93fOzw7wNPP_8BYRFsBbHcYqBD4vpDt4CmtNLpzjOVk/s640/After.SSS.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have this motto I found on Pinterest (really wish I knew the author, so I could give them a long hug)</div>
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"Do what you can, with what you have". I apply this mantra daily, maybe multiple times a day.</div>
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With that said, I use my apartment's "foyer" to do my DIY projects. {Clearly, a separate garage is at the very top of my dream home must-haves} Fortunately, my neighbors have accepted this side of me. When working on this project after breakfast, one of my neighbors came out and gave me some plastic gloves, she said "don't ruin your manicure". #heartwarming</div>
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My littlest and bestest helper, my daughter. She's always volunteering to help. 9 out of 10 times I say no #sorrynotsorry, its just that 9 out of 10 times I'm working with products and equipment not safe for kids, except today! I allowed her to help me paint because<u> the project was fool-proof!</u> I made my own chalk-paint. And one of the best things about chalk paint (besides the fact it dries super fast) Its that it doesn't leave streaks!! She couldn't mess up the paint job, if she tried! So while she gave the chairs their first coat of paint, I got to work on the upholstering part of the chairs.</div>
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Here's what I used to upholster the chair. But all you REALLY need is The Staple gun.</div>
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This was an inexpensive staple gun from The Home Depot. If you've never upholstered before, I don't recommend getting a more sophisticated tool, keep it simple until you've mastered the skill.</div>
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The first thing I did, was remove the (disgusting, dusty) vinyl that the seats had. I used a letter opener, to pry off the old staples, so fancy.</div>
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What is not shown: when I cut the fabric to size. </div>
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All you need to do: trace the old piece of fabric on your new fabric, cut it and staple it.<br />Important step: Start with the corners.<br />Give it a clean and neat appearance by folding a pleat as you staple. </h4>
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I also considered the pattern on the fabric, I did my best to keep the pattern symmetrical. This especially necessary when working with stripes.</div>
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Once the chairs were completed, I screwed them back to the chair frame. It was a really simple project. I can't wait to do it again!</div>
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Aren't they grand? It definitely gave our living room a little special something. </div>
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Thanks for stopping by & Happy Thriftin'</div>
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Sincerely,</div>
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Sarah</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-11454323202578592352016-10-16T17:00:00.000-07:002016-10-16T14:26:18.183-07:00My Prima Ballerina's 3rd Birthday Bash!<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">I am finally able to share pictures of my daughter's 3rd birthday party from this past February! Long story short, these pictures were held captive in my external hard-drive and have finally been set free! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">[insert emotional crying emoji here]</span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-weight: normal;">LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN</span></h3>
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This birthday party was a true labor of love. Like 250 hours of labor <i>and </i>loads and loads of love.</div>
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I began to plan my daughter's party in late October (2015). I did have to take a break in mid December because my December baby was celebrating his 6th Birthday and well he's a super kid, so I had to give him a super hero kind of party. period. But soon after, it was back to ballerina party mode. It was a big deal because this would be my girl's FIRST party EVER.</div>
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I just had to share it with y'all because if you're a Mom of one or many, you want two things for your child on their birthday: 1. That your child is really, truly Happy and 2. That you don't break the bank, <i>making </i>her happy.<i> I</i> am happy to say, we accomplished both those things and so here's how we did it! <span style="color: #e06666;">[</span><i>I've also included affiliate links to some of the products I used</i><span style="color: #e06666;">]</span></div>
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For starters, we saved big by hosting the party at home. Sure we don't have the ideal space for entertaining on a daily basis, but we do when we shove our furniture in the bedrooms!</div>
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Secondly, we saved bigger cha-ching by avoiding rental fees. I took my two folding 6ft tables, joined them together and used white tablecloths, topped with lace curtains to hide the plastic industrial look and give it a pretty yet functional seating area (when styling on a budget, you get creative in the best ways!). For the tablescape, I used several different elements to fill the large center. A birdcage on a cake stand with its own DIY tulle skirt, floating candles, her first pair of ballet flats, a cylinder with wands for the girls and individual place settings from, you guessed it, Dollar Tree.</div>
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My apartment didn't come with a fancy crystal chandelier, shucks. So in order to give the room a wow factor, I made a large cluster of tissue paper pom poms, tissue flowers, paper lanterns, <a href="http://amzn.to/2dJnzLU" target="_blank">like these</a>, ballerinas die cuts and a bead garland (also from DT). The secret sauce: you can never have too much stuff in your cluster. Like Ever. And I don't know if there's anything more inexpensive than tissue paper.</div>
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{ When the party was over, I moved this cluster and incorporated into her room decor }</div>
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Party favors are usually where I like to spend the bigger buck. Its your way of thanking your guests from coming to celebrate with you and for any gifts that you may have received. However, I didn't have the big bucks to spend so I made all of my party favors: each ballerina got her own tu-tu! The tulle skirts were so easy to make but definitely the most time consuming. But they looked so good on display and on the mini ballerina's it was so worth it! I purchase this <a href="http://amzn.to/2dckCQ6" target="_blank">tulle</a>.</div>
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The Mommas received miniature cake stands that I made (tutorial coming soon) :)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina die cut, hanging from fishing wire.</td></tr>
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This monogram was my favorite DIY! I had found a giant G made of foam board, waking by a GAP store one day and I just had to have it. I had sprayed it pink and had it mounted over my daughter's headboard. Then I found this pin on Pinterest using coffee filters as flowers and this beauty was born. Following this post, I will be sharing individual posts on how I made this and the other fun decor used for the party! Comment below and let me know which one was your favorite!</div>
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{Sigh! This little onesie was how I shared the gender with my beau. He had an inkling that it was a girl, but the surprised still made him surprisingly emotional. It was so sweet}</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHlwNtgl0F7OIJtqzidsV2UW9GWPmJyrN78bMHtEqB18wMOD5mH9xLABaxdlq-0rJ5tn4DV2SlbD_wGWQ1jMeU1g73JGF2wr3qDMu51gh4_3DbKwPeLuhpcKo7IvZQUkjlJvcFmv4Hd0/s1600/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHlwNtgl0F7OIJtqzidsV2UW9GWPmJyrN78bMHtEqB18wMOD5mH9xLABaxdlq-0rJ5tn4DV2SlbD_wGWQ1jMeU1g73JGF2wr3qDMu51gh4_3DbKwPeLuhpcKo7IvZQUkjlJvcFmv4Hd0/s640/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+057.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another die cut I made.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkwpFYSaeblKMyXdn21a7o2WOvkKHrs0WYmoHOOqBTKbS1CmaTkbaOaVfipAffUMcHqZcuRGrtYsrHvR4XkAJQSywcxpMVlSJWQQD3uY7b17wuVDsmyKgoPr8c71toH9lMLOo766LZHUg/s1600/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkwpFYSaeblKMyXdn21a7o2WOvkKHrs0WYmoHOOqBTKbS1CmaTkbaOaVfipAffUMcHqZcuRGrtYsrHvR4XkAJQSywcxpMVlSJWQQD3uY7b17wuVDsmyKgoPr8c71toH9lMLOo766LZHUg/s640/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+061.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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{That wooden dollhouse above my hutch was a special gift for my daughter from one my dearest friends. She had scored it at a local thrift, and being a mother of four boys, she just couldn't help but spoil my girl with such a beautiful dollhouse! I practically cried, it was something I always wanted as a little girl, so for my baby to have one, made me even more happy}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtl2bs75t9KDzuPTdgvlonA_CZkksTmh48Diz4yfsiZ1e4Kplgg_WnGbK2nVpeE8fS-Z64aLFUn3JdWilSXR3iv-qa_9hpv8mXdtpFc25fufkQdppcxPM0yyTpkc45Oxu36Y11kL9ho4U/s1600/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtl2bs75t9KDzuPTdgvlonA_CZkksTmh48Diz4yfsiZ1e4Kplgg_WnGbK2nVpeE8fS-Z64aLFUn3JdWilSXR3iv-qa_9hpv8mXdtpFc25fufkQdppcxPM0yyTpkc45Oxu36Y11kL9ho4U/s640/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+073.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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And now for the cake table, easy DIY backdrop and special custom cakes from none other than my dearest childhood friend <i>and </i>my daughter's Godmother; Oribel from<a href="http://www.sugarcuppies.com/" target="_blank"> Sugar Cuppies!</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4icGlvUJBCwd_wwIt1lyWpoy0wNN2qi-451RC1_OomNL8FNU_tABU6jMi8PSUqVLqJGtIt84LuiBm1qRGJSOlf8zK41UtP51awU4X57NCkJCJAMg-4GsTpXAckfmVsJn7HiG7TvTxL8c/s1600/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4icGlvUJBCwd_wwIt1lyWpoy0wNN2qi-451RC1_OomNL8FNU_tABU6jMi8PSUqVLqJGtIt84LuiBm1qRGJSOlf8zK41UtP51awU4X57NCkJCJAMg-4GsTpXAckfmVsJn7HiG7TvTxL8c/s640/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+083.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Rather than one giant 3 tier cake, I wanted 3 individual cakes. Oribel's fondant skills incorporated the colors and flair in edible versions of the party itself! They were just as yummy as they were pretty! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qoMTmZEfQQQCrvJ7kolKxlJ48_OAm3vWi3Yxwh1x4LxGwEBh4PBLwYYZu1EIXNTGLuBIUZMxgrU1N8-ztDj3soEK51sgNCW4I9mWeb2HDkDVHjst_2BuLlMyV1H4hGbT3mBDSkY7ZSU/s1600/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qoMTmZEfQQQCrvJ7kolKxlJ48_OAm3vWi3Yxwh1x4LxGwEBh4PBLwYYZu1EIXNTGLuBIUZMxgrU1N8-ztDj3soEK51sgNCW4I9mWeb2HDkDVHjst_2BuLlMyV1H4hGbT3mBDSkY7ZSU/s640/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+075.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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I then cut cake toppers using <a href="http://amzn.to/2dclYdU" target="_blank">this</a> (My 2015 birthday gift from my beau and bestie!) My favorite birthday gift (besides life itself), to date!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFtblDRLRXUvcCEDO3WRkv2Dh3EczLe-kvtGhxyweYIJKc0Ujms099Lqja-_4jkJIeSHz-R4dXPVkjLrV-dtWsuidV5YF0jue_3QICuoXqZUXEhG-76EhckRWZX8dSzp8NSe2QWx2hZw/s1600/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFtblDRLRXUvcCEDO3WRkv2Dh3EczLe-kvtGhxyweYIJKc0Ujms099Lqja-_4jkJIeSHz-R4dXPVkjLrV-dtWsuidV5YF0jue_3QICuoXqZUXEhG-76EhckRWZX8dSzp8NSe2QWx2hZw/s640/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+077.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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I made these cake stands from plates I scored at the thrift for .50, gold glitter ribbon from DT and a large candlestick I coated with gold glitter, I adhered it using crazy glue... its still standing tall. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3X6h_DCHPJkGQBqWqCIYopuaeZ3_hxk2NMZ-xOglTcS_B6u3vQHV5aAM8IrQh2zIs5CqqbcgZbPVsdu83O1caPs4uEvsp0PaUDkFtWAmqCXZZA_vNUv0OubZm4jKu6MlnMNKMJg8Ic6M/s1600/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3X6h_DCHPJkGQBqWqCIYopuaeZ3_hxk2NMZ-xOglTcS_B6u3vQHV5aAM8IrQh2zIs5CqqbcgZbPVsdu83O1caPs4uEvsp0PaUDkFtWAmqCXZZA_vNUv0OubZm4jKu6MlnMNKMJg8Ic6M/s640/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+078.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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The tissue paper garland was another DIY, obvi.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKX_Bls0_rD_MQgqwk5h3Ha4Ohw7NS37iNAy-cCObhNXmXDMVSux3-DTpH1DUXresidRKd6juEvHd_c03RD3vFDWRuu1nBLOWkXBXBsng8psB7N7jLM7IE6TqpDC-wb97bX1H6eugpTk/s1600/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKX_Bls0_rD_MQgqwk5h3Ha4Ohw7NS37iNAy-cCObhNXmXDMVSux3-DTpH1DUXresidRKd6juEvHd_c03RD3vFDWRuu1nBLOWkXBXBsng8psB7N7jLM7IE6TqpDC-wb97bX1H6eugpTk/s400/2016+Jan-GabbysParty+085.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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The pinwheels were adorned with doilies and ballerina silhouettes that I cut using <a href="http://amzn.to/2dclYdU" target="_blank">this</a>. I made little tutus using leftover tulle. I placed 3 of these in the middle of a gold vintage frame I found in my building. You have no idea how I geeked I was when I scored this find!</div>
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Last but not least, we celebrated my girl, with style and grace and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way, even the hiccups... the many many hiccups (like getting sick with Strep throat the day before the party, yeah. that happened). The most important thing remained: Gabby was happy.<br />
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Here's my girl blowing her candles for the 3rd time. Ha!<br />
(For privacy reasons, I've excluded pictures of my friends and their little ballerinas.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBE2h0hNV98vS9Ne6e1Q0sqoq7hVPRZWsEhUX8QJhMoI4Ula4C4VvLl5ThdpZG4N2-WIYFAiLSlUstL_JrPAcho49UunepGZU4O8oRcwJ4oMXGuSTxDO_AIpxyjxsT1foR13OHxo-5978/s1600/Gabby.3bday.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBE2h0hNV98vS9Ne6e1Q0sqoq7hVPRZWsEhUX8QJhMoI4Ula4C4VvLl5ThdpZG4N2-WIYFAiLSlUstL_JrPAcho49UunepGZU4O8oRcwJ4oMXGuSTxDO_AIpxyjxsT1foR13OHxo-5978/s640/Gabby.3bday.4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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El Fin.</div>
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<span style="background-color: #999999; color: white;">.:Next on Sarah Sweet & Simple:.</span></div>
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I will be sharing with you <i>how</i> I made my own party decorations using inexpensive materials so you can give your next event that truly custom and personal touch :) </div>
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And let me know if you have any questions or comments below, I'd love to hear from you!</div>
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Sincerely, Sarah</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-31612366748288975982016-09-25T10:19:00.000-07:002016-12-02T10:52:40.533-08:00Small Space Solution: The Baby Wall<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bitB7vq5huZ29cfbps5OlFNgE_ZBMgHjTSEt_J3T0BtWpMM5Y-YZ3oKokSeiLsGG3V7EHO_V2m60VXOJuFOMkFgEf2Om0Nzp0ipfUmuXPCwnlYGL5aUpDNESHZLXBZBnr8WBtNRboAk/s1600/BabyWall-pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bitB7vq5huZ29cfbps5OlFNgE_ZBMgHjTSEt_J3T0BtWpMM5Y-YZ3oKokSeiLsGG3V7EHO_V2m60VXOJuFOMkFgEf2Om0Nzp0ipfUmuXPCwnlYGL5aUpDNESHZLXBZBnr8WBtNRboAk/s640/BabyWall-pin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I learned I was expecting baby #4 you can well imagine that I had a panic attack, a freak-out "OMG" moment and then a "pin it and get over it" moment. That's the moment when my mind is so fried that I escape reality by seeking inspiration via <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/SweetSimpleBlog/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> and then nothing in reality feels so bad (works every time). </div>
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We had recently moved into a bigger apartment, however, space was still limited. The baby would definitely be with us until he was big enough to join his brothers. Therefore, I would only be able to have a "wall" for our baby... that is space for a crib and an armoir of some sort for the baby's things. That's when I saw this beautiful, clean and neutral layout:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRF3bD_N4XPwBQGTVKmPoENBG5SwgQ8beItZd45mzBq0Sz2JgQ1p6zWeEa5HxqzPQ-RrSIA7T0sCyE-8M0CE-vnz2AlWaxhyphenhyphen8tDR8my9P-H_wdU_NIWZvoU2wtLfmQt80B1A8U3He7Rc/s1600/jacksnurseryinspo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRF3bD_N4XPwBQGTVKmPoENBG5SwgQ8beItZd45mzBq0Sz2JgQ1p6zWeEa5HxqzPQ-RrSIA7T0sCyE-8M0CE-vnz2AlWaxhyphenhyphen8tDR8my9P-H_wdU_NIWZvoU2wtLfmQt80B1A8U3He7Rc/s640/jacksnurseryinspo.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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{<a href="http://www.thelittleumbrella.com/blog/soft-gray-nursery-with-a-mix-of-old-and-new/">source</a>}</div>
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This image was embedded in my brain for over a year. I couldn't shake it! Even after the baby was born (our third boy!) And so it happens, that one afternoon, walking home from the park with the kids, I took a detour and walked down a different block than usual and this stunner was kicked the curb and had my name written all over it.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSJAzNxDwd99VqWGsCnhIIf3Ljrn9_bx7GcZEVntyKz01sj0EWH5lbmiZ_qpVw4DGjpeXvb1XxSn-vEPmiyWa6YGoubgJG8MiXAv3Pqd-ds0ABggrjmBxx-cyBT8tO_KIPam95VdFL5k/s640/IMG_5589.JPG" /><br />
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Read my post on how I turned this trashed dresser into a true treasure <b><span style="color: #e06666;"><a href="http://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2015/08/trash-to-treasure-dresser-gets-makeover.html" target="_blank">HERE!</a></span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-dDKV2esr5G_flNDx_RKjiII_ypaxpDkNW3gJVqWN35fbzdGeIT-f72RrrNeyLQgufG1pFcWj8gHS-qJYkJXdcq_llmztisqZ2zhXDpcWCu9_gxVuYIrXhTWGwYX8fNHccY4MelE_IA/s1600/BabyWall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-dDKV2esr5G_flNDx_RKjiII_ypaxpDkNW3gJVqWN35fbzdGeIT-f72RrrNeyLQgufG1pFcWj8gHS-qJYkJXdcq_llmztisqZ2zhXDpcWCu9_gxVuYIrXhTWGwYX8fNHccY4MelE_IA/s640/BabyWall.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My goal was to create a space for all the baby's things but that didn't make our bedroom feel so much like a nursery. We wanted a nice balance, and to do that I wanted a piece of furniture that worked with the pieces in our room but more importantly, that it was functional.<br />
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Although the piece was missing a drawer, I solved the problem by tossing the other drawer and filling the gaps with baskets. The baskets served as storage for the extra diapers, wipes and baby blankets.<br />
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The drawers were small, but enough for our babies tiny clothes.<br />
Drawer 1: socks, bibs and burp cloths<br />
Drawer 2: Onesies<br />
Drawer 3: Pajama sets<br />
Drawer 4: Playsets<br />
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On top, the changing pad and the must-have wipe warmer (highly recommend!!), diapers and baby lotions and ointments.<br />
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Next to the dresser was the baby's crib. And that't it. That's all we needed for our little guy. "The Baby Wall" proved to be a perfect alternative solution to the "nursery" we didn't have. Overtime, we changed the art in the frames, swapped out the keepsakes for baby books. It was a versatile space to organize the baby's things as he grew.<br />
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By baby #4, you realize how much stuff you don't <i>really</i> need. And with limited space, being a mommy minimalist just comes with the territory. Pun not intended ;)<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Sincerely,</i></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Sarah</i></span></b><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-79106219602178950102016-08-18T08:10:00.002-07:002016-12-02T12:42:53.547-08:00Back to Basics: Shelf LifeI am a die-hard fan of shelves. It's like a practical piece of furniture but without the bulk or the commitment. It is my answer to almost every organizing issue: when you don't know where to put your stuff. Your stuff becomes piles of stuff and all over the place. You know the saying "a place for your things and your things in its place". Bingo.<br />
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Using shelves can clear off floor space, and who wouldn't want that? They can be used for storage. They can be used to display things. They can be useful anywhere you put them. Here are some ways you can incorporate shelves in every room of your home.<br />
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In the Bathroom<br />
<img alt="Are you limited in storage space in the bathroom? Maria combated her bathroom clutter with a few small shelves to provide great storage for...: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/9a/31/28/9a31287fb31f7eef6f745204b64fb0b4.jpg" width="265" /><br />
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The Kitchen<br />
<img alt="LOVE, love, love this whole little space...IKEA kitchen carts, shelves and bar with S hooks, baskets and magazine files from HomeGoods, glass canisters from Walmart {Cozy.Cottage.Cute}: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/e7/d3/98/e7d39884183c44ac3d7c04f8d556b369.jpg" width="266" /><br />
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In the Dining Room<br />
<img alt="Tour House- Clean Cottage Decor: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/f8/3a/0a/f83a0a25efdbcb5b368e49e847574693.jpg" width="268" /><br />
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In the Living Room<br />
<img alt="Cute cozy gray living room | gray and white patterned ottomans | gray couch | gray walls | gray rug: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/c1/1a/a3/c11aa350cef3b5710bb2086d8481ea0d.jpg" width="263" /><br />
<a href="http://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2015/08/at-home-corner-office-uhm-yeah.html" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2015/08/at-home-corner-office-uhm-yeah.html" target="_blank">The Home Office</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsqAUr0TSxA1Wb0RxtdiranYfD7XMNuDF_Kcl4tjPGS29PaP_1GYs3TPLW8k2D_TV-I2bROBHtrH1ie2PkUHWcpTpddBHlOxdgRKFkHspKJCP3hzXaycu77_RLBaGZWi0CCgmiOSVd7U/s1600/1.MyOffice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsqAUr0TSxA1Wb0RxtdiranYfD7XMNuDF_Kcl4tjPGS29PaP_1GYs3TPLW8k2D_TV-I2bROBHtrH1ie2PkUHWcpTpddBHlOxdgRKFkHspKJCP3hzXaycu77_RLBaGZWi0CCgmiOSVd7U/s400/1.MyOffice.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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The Master Bedroom<br />
<img alt="Instead of a gallery wall, use Ikea picture ledges so you can swap out the art and frames whenever you want!: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/a4/61/01/a46101af48e162f0631eb108e09f032b.jpg" width="271" /><br />
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<a href="http://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/search/label/beauty" target="_blank">The Beauty Bar</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2u2AegV4Qpl2cumIe8YcITFsR_0vxGFHctdWXpaVrtCjCullK7MS-_ndjLIhPFGNE5DARBtRP7LDFM4BWB8h-hsd6MtJZUTnRgYh2BwOcgN7Iu0KPgLqeP5cuCTpnLUtVo2jCaXq3FQ/s1600/BeautyBar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2u2AegV4Qpl2cumIe8YcITFsR_0vxGFHctdWXpaVrtCjCullK7MS-_ndjLIhPFGNE5DARBtRP7LDFM4BWB8h-hsd6MtJZUTnRgYh2BwOcgN7Iu0KPgLqeP5cuCTpnLUtVo2jCaXq3FQ/s320/BeautyBar.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Kid's Bedroom<br />
<img alt="beautifully styled girl's bedroom shelves // caitlin wilson: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/44/0e/08/440e08b11c7f0cf10350677bde5769db.jpg" width="265" /><br />
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As you can see, shelves come in all shapes, colors and sizes making they're appearance and functionality super versatile. Its a win win.<br />
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Now, let's talk about how to implement shelves in your home (and yeah, how to mount them!)<br />
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There are a few design rules to consider when mounting shelves. #1 on the list:<br />
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When mounting a shelves, use the rule of 3. Like in life - one is a loner, two is a couple and three is a party! ;)<br />
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Second, consider the space where you want to mount the shelves - that will determine the kind of shelves you will use. There are floating shelves; usually thicker without visible brackets. Ledges (my new favorite) are thin about 3 in deep and 1/2 in height. I recommend these sorts of shelves to lean frames and books and smaller items. And your average (but never boring) shelf with brackets, can hold plenty of things and the most weight (see the instructions below to secure mounting). My tip: have fun with the brackets. IKEA USA has a large variation of inexpensive brackets. Have fun trying different colors with spray paint.<br />
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Third, how to style your shelves. If you're mounting shelves in the living room or kitchen - try to minimize how much stuff you put on them. Too much of a good thing can make the room look instantly cluttered. Space items out and use a variety of different elements in various sizes (tall and small, round and skinny); books, pictures, a decorative storage box, a stylish structure, a live or faux plant or floral arrangement. But if you're using your shelves for storage, try using bins, baskets and boxes in the same color and similar style, the key to being organized is also to keep it tidy, a solid color palette will make it pleasing to the eye. If you'd like to know more about how to organize your bins and boxes, let me know in the comments below, it will certainly need its own post!<br />
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Finally, I can give you my personal how-to mount a shelf but at this point, I wing it, sometimes I even cut corners (shh don't tell!) But if you've never used a drill or even hammer, I think a thorough tutorial is required so I went to my online handyman for help!<br />
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Check out this How to Hang Shelves by the <a href="http://www.familyhandyman.com/woodworking/shelves/how-to-hang-shelves/view-all" target="_blank">Family Handyman</a><br />
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Hope you found this post helpful! And if you try the shelf thing, share your victory with me below!<br />
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Sincerely,</div>
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Sarah</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-1359488994723684562016-06-30T20:21:00.000-07:002016-07-01T06:49:35.851-07:00Loving The Home You HaveHaving a place to call home is a blessing. Despite the chaos surrounding us, the clutter in the entryway, the overstuffed mail sorter, there are things you can always love about your home. Ga'head, make a list. I'll wait.<br />
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I gave myself this same task a few weeks ago when I found myself frustrated with the constant hustle and bustle of running a household and the very little that I actually enjoyed about it. I follow some bloggers with homes that can make your mouth water. My IG is flooded with constant posts of beautiful homes, perfectly tidy kid rooms, bright and airy living rooms, cozy guest rooms, state of the art kitchens with freshly cut peonies on the island. I mean, c'mon! But its out there. And as a content consumer, I found myself overly consumed by it. I admire those women who keep up their homes just so. Want to know what else I noticed? many don't have kids. And if they do, they're old enough to wipe their own bums and pour their own cereals. You know what I would be capable of if my kids could do that!? I'd plank a wall. I'd stain my wood floors 5 shades darker. I'd try one of those Shanty2Chic projects. No wait, that can't be done in an apartment in Brooklyn. Or can it? hmm.<br />
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But the reality is, my kids are still small and need me for feedings and baths and playtime and cuddles. And I need them to need me as much as possible because they're not going to be so little forever. By the way, I do remind myself of this every time I complain about not having time to myself to paint or mount a shelf. My kids need me. Period.<br />
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Moreover, my home is MY home. It's what I prayed God for and I got. Which is a lesson in itself. My prayers were more like "God, we just need more space for my family! I need more rooms, more closets" God was like check, check check. Thank you Lord. Next time, I will definitely be more <i>specific</i> in my prayers... because that's how God works. And besides, I've put in a lot of love in to making my home, mine (or ours). I've done what I could with what I could and that keeps me excited about what to do next.<br />
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Loving the home you have makes your home perfect just the way it is. Appreciating that I have a roof over my head to having nice linens on my bed. It's about investing in what you have or dreaming a new dream. But never settle and don't break the bank. That's it. Love your home. And more importantly, love the people you share it with,<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
Sarah<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-83479385745036158622016-01-08T17:26:00.000-08:002018-09-19T19:55:02.497-07:00From Shabby to Chic: Kitchen Sideboard UPDATEHere's how I turned a $25 Thrift Store dresser from its shabby state to a chic AND functional kitchen sideboard.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnd71796GsQwxFUFw67PSBZu-APR6goCqakTVCVo5MSyxkNwjBiRgrs4J-fm8phlald02e0dY6vvVPbHdahZyGzhN8OqE9LQQsrSoNMkm8txAQ2X0a2cJVWWtuWE1pktCV6UwPnjoloCg/s1600/sideboard+before.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnd71796GsQwxFUFw67PSBZu-APR6goCqakTVCVo5MSyxkNwjBiRgrs4J-fm8phlald02e0dY6vvVPbHdahZyGzhN8OqE9LQQsrSoNMkm8txAQ2X0a2cJVWWtuWE1pktCV6UwPnjoloCg/s640/sideboard+before.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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What I did:<br />
I took my handy dandy electronic sander and gave the top a good sanding, it really needed it. The rest of the body and drawers didn't, so I just made sure to wipe it clean of dust, residue and the like. Followed by 1 coat of primer. I believe in primer especially when painting a dark piece a light color, For two specific reasons: Your paint would adhere better (important when painting laminate) and you'll save on using so much of your very expensive paint! By the way, ALWAYS go for a quart than a gallon unless you're painting a room.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0J1zVj-d0uooao88kuaZDLqeBUu5m_fyfF_8NB2kZKVbINxK-DZLaOKAvZMeaoleIybiThrr4UXDaze3VWzFerEtn38ta04UFqwyIaFRqTuQq6IYP1x-WxzsYm055rVPE6Z_qKwOU2WM/s1600/IMG_5856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0J1zVj-d0uooao88kuaZDLqeBUu5m_fyfF_8NB2kZKVbINxK-DZLaOKAvZMeaoleIybiThrr4UXDaze3VWzFerEtn38ta04UFqwyIaFRqTuQq6IYP1x-WxzsYm055rVPE6Z_qKwOU2WM/s640/IMG_5856.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfL3pWk0eWAoWpdCNuVRNxvYnk00Md3nw2Z3wkVOirfys-4dqs_B_mrsYVMe9SQLotb_O2YJ8BO4e_7RasBP24Hz6FGawu0ma1QRVI42xkkbO0yjtrEdE5iKusbgXgFBxqYRshyphenhyphenymybB4/s1600/IMG_5858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfL3pWk0eWAoWpdCNuVRNxvYnk00Md3nw2Z3wkVOirfys-4dqs_B_mrsYVMe9SQLotb_O2YJ8BO4e_7RasBP24Hz6FGawu0ma1QRVI42xkkbO0yjtrEdE5iKusbgXgFBxqYRshyphenhyphenymybB4/s640/IMG_5858.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The color: Benjamin Moore Spa Day</td></tr>
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I painted the drawers in the kid's room (they "camped" in our room for a week until the smell was clear). Hey, you gotta do what you gotta do when you don't have the luxury of a yard or a garage.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIfEz1Za6Vt19dF_QTCpX7nieDZSn1dcJb3Dp2WxFtuRhrKAU17teh82bpffdq0VZygr0AeoVpBvJdanMlPaaPUwFd7Uqbbb2E_pNgk91bJEMelrh9bNwYUbhyyoBmUHVZX637w_6-WU/s1600/IMG_5859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIfEz1Za6Vt19dF_QTCpX7nieDZSn1dcJb3Dp2WxFtuRhrKAU17teh82bpffdq0VZygr0AeoVpBvJdanMlPaaPUwFd7Uqbbb2E_pNgk91bJEMelrh9bNwYUbhyyoBmUHVZX637w_6-WU/s640/IMG_5859.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I gave the body and the drawers 2 coats of paint. The second coat was to cover any and all streaks for a seamless finish. I let dry for 48 hours before putting anything on top. If you're painting in hot climate where humidity is high, I would wait even longer. The paint will feel dry to the touch but it can become sticky to furnishings. You want it to be super duper dry before giving it any use.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnd71796GsQwxFUFw67PSBZu-APR6goCqakTVCVo5MSyxkNwjBiRgrs4J-fm8phlald02e0dY6vvVPbHdahZyGzhN8OqE9LQQsrSoNMkm8txAQ2X0a2cJVWWtuWE1pktCV6UwPnjoloCg/s1600/sideboard+before.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGFg8poAWchRi49xc7xryyWDI0a74g8T65xC0NUSPmKNX7N3onHO7W3wPm4qXPr9RbxJ07M018VA5R5SNcEctdGkuqdW3lZRbYFXM4xibH4ozRJNZtHYYzMyQjDCoHQyM11QxRg3bhnI/s1600/sideboard+after1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGFg8poAWchRi49xc7xryyWDI0a74g8T65xC0NUSPmKNX7N3onHO7W3wPm4qXPr9RbxJ07M018VA5R5SNcEctdGkuqdW3lZRbYFXM4xibH4ozRJNZtHYYzMyQjDCoHQyM11QxRg3bhnI/s640/sideboard+after1.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Here's what you don't see: the middle doors, which I decided not to use since I use the three center drawers for pots and pans. I need quick and easy access to these items and the doors would just be an extra step I didn't need. And besides, I think it appeals to the kitchen much better this way.<br />
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Finally, ABOVE the sideboard is this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5RCIka85VhCotX-d8SiZbh6hQD7k4LbwJl8RfYzlZnQqRyd-rtoFKT4b4V8b1q2yvM2Yr9hQaiBB7Yl4-G_I61kvH826nKezpV-QYYxnp77TwHuxozzRL4C7OT_ilurJQWAx8OmjgxM/s1600/KitchenSideboard2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5RCIka85VhCotX-d8SiZbh6hQD7k4LbwJl8RfYzlZnQqRyd-rtoFKT4b4V8b1q2yvM2Yr9hQaiBB7Yl4-G_I61kvH826nKezpV-QYYxnp77TwHuxozzRL4C7OT_ilurJQWAx8OmjgxM/s640/KitchenSideboard2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In conclusion: don't judge a dresser by it's "supposed purpose" give it new life and new use and you'll be amazed by the result.</div>
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Cheers!</div>
Sarah<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-32575050067281038022015-12-02T12:35:00.000-08:002016-12-02T12:39:51.157-08:00Small Space Solution: At-Home Beauty Bar! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEger6Mn4pt0nOs0NJ4kdS-DcCTPApsoh4atYJOAiDajq2nE6XWuu1WkUsuEDXmHDMsLRMBktepfaWJQebMCuFRSdD0jZr0smLABf6scXrQMmGvrYDq_VHv16zkEO9NNT8die7-YQpUJDd4/s1600/BeautyBar-Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEger6Mn4pt0nOs0NJ4kdS-DcCTPApsoh4atYJOAiDajq2nE6XWuu1WkUsuEDXmHDMsLRMBktepfaWJQebMCuFRSdD0jZr0smLABf6scXrQMmGvrYDq_VHv16zkEO9NNT8die7-YQpUJDd4/s640/BeautyBar-Pin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's an awesome alternative to the glam gal's vanity we see all over Pinterest! I totally dig the idea of a dedicated vanity or desk to be used to beautify ourselves, but realistically, it's not an option for me. Although our master bedroom is pretty awesome in size, it is currently being occupied by our little roommate Jack. Our son has what we call "the wall" for his crib, dresser and hamper. The ideal wall space for a really fancy shmancy vanity. WaaH!</div>
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So what's a girl to do?? Think UP. All I <i>really </i>need is a place to organize my beauty products so they are easily accessible when I need to put my face on for church or a date with the Mister (heart eyes emoji here). I had moved around furnishings so I re-purposed two of the three shelves from my <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: yellow;"><a href="http://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2015/08/at-home-corner-office-uhm-yeah.html" target="_blank">'corner office</a></span>'</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span>as my new "beauty bar"! Check it out!! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-VPiwr78gczfFs1CzvyywWljVPXezVrGOtSKf7lrRyomGwuvLU2n3x6DCqmbxkyToR5wKg3vRbxvMmYGj2sNRp3nRKcVnQu2q492ygxrcjj5hwWOsK5xgjszd3jt51T6HevxLXIeWDU/s1600/DSC_4278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-VPiwr78gczfFs1CzvyywWljVPXezVrGOtSKf7lrRyomGwuvLU2n3x6DCqmbxkyToR5wKg3vRbxvMmYGj2sNRp3nRKcVnQu2q492ygxrcjj5hwWOsK5xgjszd3jt51T6HevxLXIeWDU/s640/DSC_4278.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The shelves are from IKEA. I painted the shelves white and sprayed painted the brackets gold. Easy peazy. All of the organizers and gold vases were from Target! I paid $1 for the acrylic make up organizers and $3 for the gold vases. Including that striped vase that I love so much.</div>
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I bought a bag of floral sand at the dollar tree to keep my makeup brushes straight #Boom.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7HrczDwLNGPvB9YOezJQQfF2zv1XQMqP3qSJ8KwYDDCmlH0Ti-eR_SbN6-CaPYtKuWGJ_wsjD0VkS_icxpbhDMa5_Dnh4d3Wj4s0Y1MPZKWCvswBrexMt8qIOaJv0p38do9wTN4jwbhQ/s1600/DSC_4275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7HrczDwLNGPvB9YOezJQQfF2zv1XQMqP3qSJ8KwYDDCmlH0Ti-eR_SbN6-CaPYtKuWGJ_wsjD0VkS_icxpbhDMa5_Dnh4d3Wj4s0Y1MPZKWCvswBrexMt8qIOaJv0p38do9wTN4jwbhQ/s640/DSC_4275.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_YZucvGSN23jmyKE1R6_H3Njxf3z96YkAhOB7ufzn2aThjVGpuuR71K-DQPUIln7YquX6UyQOVR7SSzNXvk_8vJZJzCa8vbD1DIZROCT0wnPQ3MvKATivFwEocYMcJ-VNPh5Ir4Bj6s/s1600/DSC_4272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_YZucvGSN23jmyKE1R6_H3Njxf3z96YkAhOB7ufzn2aThjVGpuuR71K-DQPUIln7YquX6UyQOVR7SSzNXvk_8vJZJzCa8vbD1DIZROCT0wnPQ3MvKATivFwEocYMcJ-VNPh5Ir4Bj6s/s640/DSC_4272.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is an awesome option if you're working with a limited amount of space. Even if its one shelve in the bathroom or smaller shelves in a girl's dorm room. </div>
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I found that this set-up was especially helpful to keep my make-up out of reach from my three year old! She loves to watch me put on make up and loves to get her little fingers in my shadows and color the walls with my lipstick... but that's all I'll share about that.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnxfAVy7VWRInEYuX-WBjh0z3kf5ApkwPlV57TjgTLKXfp8BcEkOfF_sOOksdinhVIxcl478LxsGfbXP-dZkg_wR_va47zBF1TBwBCP6gSPoBpKsTIVBA598VI4QvwjtAuaXVlPNfdAUg/s1600/DSC_4269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnxfAVy7VWRInEYuX-WBjh0z3kf5ApkwPlV57TjgTLKXfp8BcEkOfF_sOOksdinhVIxcl478LxsGfbXP-dZkg_wR_va47zBF1TBwBCP6gSPoBpKsTIVBA598VI4QvwjtAuaXVlPNfdAUg/s640/DSC_4269.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Notice any differences between this image and the first one?? If you do, comment below!!<br />And if you try something similar, share it with me on IG! @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsweetandsimple" target="_blank">SarahSweetAndSimple</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Have a pretty day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Sincerely,<br />Sarah</span></td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-66410770285169531252015-08-23T18:08:00.000-07:002016-12-02T10:51:50.204-08:00{Trash to Treasure} Dresser Gets a Makeover!<div style="text-align: center;">
I love when this happens. When you have a vision of something so specific, you just can't get your mind off it, and then *poof* it miraculously appears... just the way you hoped it would!<br />
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Yep. I hoped. And I received.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSJAzNxDwd99VqWGsCnhIIf3Ljrn9_bx7GcZEVntyKz01sj0EWH5lbmiZ_qpVw4DGjpeXvb1XxSn-vEPmiyWa6YGoubgJG8MiXAv3Pqd-ds0ABggrjmBxx-cyBT8tO_KIPam95VdFL5k/s1600/IMG_5589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSJAzNxDwd99VqWGsCnhIIf3Ljrn9_bx7GcZEVntyKz01sj0EWH5lbmiZ_qpVw4DGjpeXvb1XxSn-vEPmiyWa6YGoubgJG8MiXAv3Pqd-ds0ABggrjmBxx-cyBT8tO_KIPam95VdFL5k/s640/IMG_5589.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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I know what you're thinking...</div>
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"What were you thinking!?" OR "Lucky you!!!"</h4>
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<i>Here's the truth</i>: I'm a sucker for "diamonds in the rough" and anything that resembles "vintage". This was definitely rough and vintage-inspired, and perfect for my soon to be changing table!! </div>
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Now you have to ask me how I hauled this piece home... long story short, an older gentleman (old enough to be my grandpa) saw me struggle with my cute IKEA dolly and this very large piece of furniture and offered to deliver it to me if I could wait for his daughter to get home from work. I jumped for joy and hugged him!! #goodpeoplestillexist!</div>
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When my darling arrived home (the piece not the old man) I was elated but also terrified. I know my Mister is not a fan of my "garbage picking" ways, I like to think I treasure hunt... tomatos\tomatoes. I sneaked it into my 'work room' aka the boys bedroom and through a blanket over it. I'm so good at this hide and go seek business. Not.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8pVRGm-5JbG9fWH4CZcxDxWrvW_HjLX3JWBFLBb0qbMrOpeAVAXsasTS46Uw8ZXotn0XJDuioBJOuQQgn4j_WDaydKdbVfuEjNiIwo77AbwunOUwenblaAZbkK5oYjYjqyItzRYeGLk/s1600/IMG_5629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8pVRGm-5JbG9fWH4CZcxDxWrvW_HjLX3JWBFLBb0qbMrOpeAVAXsasTS46Uw8ZXotn0XJDuioBJOuQQgn4j_WDaydKdbVfuEjNiIwo77AbwunOUwenblaAZbkK5oYjYjqyItzRYeGLk/s640/IMG_5629.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It didn't take long before the kids made use of it, hence the books. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqp9GKIR-Kmrpi46QLe2lrQvAuQhVmDzYGNtkTInfo2eb1bGnutofu4SDHbQWeNdlI8_y62wdxOG04jV2g6N1GTdLv-PAXBK1Na4mhdfR-_I5jgVZFNRBTc8LGpYaUw_QmHOWe2cnOWSM/s1600/IMG_5628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqp9GKIR-Kmrpi46QLe2lrQvAuQhVmDzYGNtkTInfo2eb1bGnutofu4SDHbQWeNdlI8_y62wdxOG04jV2g6N1GTdLv-PAXBK1Na4mhdfR-_I5jgVZFNRBTc8LGpYaUw_QmHOWe2cnOWSM/s640/IMG_5628.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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My littest helper, sanding so meticulously. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkaBfKmTbnw3ISQwNZYV60uSi4n9LEjrn80-NcOnUeHuikpYWCEiGpqMCGHot3yjx-ZQIAliRL_PzgNFVtHx8NOV5Xo-l8nZdf055vJnPrJGmDjRG4YPf8bRNV1pIFQm5X4A3Dk1eTIF8/s1600/IMG_5637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkaBfKmTbnw3ISQwNZYV60uSi4n9LEjrn80-NcOnUeHuikpYWCEiGpqMCGHot3yjx-ZQIAliRL_PzgNFVtHx8NOV5Xo-l8nZdf055vJnPrJGmDjRG4YPf8bRNV1pIFQm5X4A3Dk1eTIF8/s640/IMG_5637.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Phase 1: </b>The piece didn't need much sanding. I gave it a good cleaning with water, vinegar and lemons, let it dry and followed it with a coat of primer. Before painting it a bright satin white. I highly recommend using primer for any and every project. Primer allows your paint to adhere to any finish AND helps to save on paint, especially when going from dark to light. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKx9qcxgx5lY8o7dY3nY-oF7mGcp95HRV1hNbOsNVrodFB8833_USWi7lUiZxudD8lkrcyYw-LzvUfMBD2SUH10Ic9wr94FUs8WwubZCAKml5peFpAse9d-EwKPoE5N2S2L0boOW5Grig/s1600/IMG_5605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKx9qcxgx5lY8o7dY3nY-oF7mGcp95HRV1hNbOsNVrodFB8833_USWi7lUiZxudD8lkrcyYw-LzvUfMBD2SUH10Ic9wr94FUs8WwubZCAKml5peFpAse9d-EwKPoE5N2S2L0boOW5Grig/s640/IMG_5605.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b>Phase 2:</b> While the piece dried, I fixed the broken drawer and sealed the others with wood glue, to ensure it's well supported for future use.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6PDl82rJ5SwP1Avyd1ek2RrcoioV8oFvJk5OSwPCRyODXhTwysR3q4I3AiJryN9aYAVjihLE8SH03eXow_Rvoe1JBuNBOY41QULAeYUTqK_ytukyYlnzZB1lQUKMUQ6IuUmC07X476E/s1600/IMG_5607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6PDl82rJ5SwP1Avyd1ek2RrcoioV8oFvJk5OSwPCRyODXhTwysR3q4I3AiJryN9aYAVjihLE8SH03eXow_Rvoe1JBuNBOY41QULAeYUTqK_ytukyYlnzZB1lQUKMUQ6IuUmC07X476E/s640/IMG_5607.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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(extension ropes helped keep the pieces in tact while drying)</div>
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<b> Phase 3: </b>I then lined the inside of the drawers with self-adhesive drawer liner. </div>
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I found this chevron pattern at Marshalls for $3.99!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW5p2dQt08iKx9YmwIFcEgK1SExOMFP5AAkzqC65tqKJwbqIzVGXV-4JkXY2NAPLnuIzmdztS6iX1CZ1TMjFz_Q4Uv4c9jTcfQT7aXBqHSj2C0C7_aREwpzCdF4hzrFxicn0EZxF0hfCw/s1600/IMG_5651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW5p2dQt08iKx9YmwIFcEgK1SExOMFP5AAkzqC65tqKJwbqIzVGXV-4JkXY2NAPLnuIzmdztS6iX1CZ1TMjFz_Q4Uv4c9jTcfQT7aXBqHSj2C0C7_aREwpzCdF4hzrFxicn0EZxF0hfCw/s640/IMG_5651.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Sure, no one sees the inside of the drawers. <u>But here's why I recommend lining drawers:</u></div>
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1. It's a used piece - the liner serves as a clean platform for storing things, especially baby things.</div>
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2. Some liners come scented, keeping your things fresh when stored, if they don't sprit with some water/lavendar oil mixture!</div>
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3. Its a pretty surprise every time you open the drawer :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaHR4nTbtXwCpKBP36bmoqXlRNBXCjICdTGScUNK_W8HuYyg6M85i8ow9_mhezaPY1iz6eA2HhJ55OpZdfkmLKOHn_gscSV9z6FyyO5pPjuQZhjoWMHfbNRDcqakJ8Cz5tmd8lxcYin8/s1600/IMG_5676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaHR4nTbtXwCpKBP36bmoqXlRNBXCjICdTGScUNK_W8HuYyg6M85i8ow9_mhezaPY1iz6eA2HhJ55OpZdfkmLKOHn_gscSV9z6FyyO5pPjuQZhjoWMHfbNRDcqakJ8Cz5tmd8lxcYin8/s640/IMG_5676.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Phase 4: </b>I planned the "gallery wall" that would be above the changing table. I wanted to achieve two things with this idea: 1. a simple, yet sophisticated design 2. serve a purpose; the wire rack (from Target) was the perfect diapers n' things organizer!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5A4v_z5LHGWMzUgt4Dd49-2xdhIQoF1uCYvwmJKy5Y-jtP4WKTuUei4yYXaaDxL6OOSPOpU0PQeHvdeuH8jz1WPUrWNklmj8dkaKtHCNqyvDmtVf-VBath45A2lZHXoKFTijgPc9eO8/s1600/IMG_5681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5A4v_z5LHGWMzUgt4Dd49-2xdhIQoF1uCYvwmJKy5Y-jtP4WKTuUei4yYXaaDxL6OOSPOpU0PQeHvdeuH8jz1WPUrWNklmj8dkaKtHCNqyvDmtVf-VBath45A2lZHXoKFTijgPc9eO8/s640/IMG_5681.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The frames, as you can see had pictures already in them so I swapped them out and cut scrapbook paper to size to serve as a simple backdrop.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbv8DzqqRQDcmhKffbAgwR_nKDF7GrBW5ehTm4Aro6upQpjOYhJp69gI13Z4wWIhVEV0Q-cXYQcnqj85tL2L9c5cYho-kqy_OQqMrHfsC-ic1AUCm5lQNS1ZfNWQAiyfFokwxvdKb3Cmc/s1600/IMG_5678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbv8DzqqRQDcmhKffbAgwR_nKDF7GrBW5ehTm4Aro6upQpjOYhJp69gI13Z4wWIhVEV0Q-cXYQcnqj85tL2L9c5cYho-kqy_OQqMrHfsC-ic1AUCm5lQNS1ZfNWQAiyfFokwxvdKb3Cmc/s400/IMG_5678.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhADn74TgNpJjTWcZ4GuYc5Z8IjdTUt6YGexFrsuvTE_O_Oz6VyyfUXSYUe2ksPlphj_oiK19evl7-AQuQwuvuW-YNJd8Ov57LdsX6gihUv5nSApqosIphKeZFfVsDPG8DXZhyqHLPtTZc/s1600/IMG_5683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhADn74TgNpJjTWcZ4GuYc5Z8IjdTUt6YGexFrsuvTE_O_Oz6VyyfUXSYUe2ksPlphj_oiK19evl7-AQuQwuvuW-YNJd8Ov57LdsX6gihUv5nSApqosIphKeZFfVsDPG8DXZhyqHLPtTZc/s640/IMG_5683.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis8SxSE3X3_I8NyXPiIjHGlQPK3UjMY1PhRg3_yYeGPC2loUcLl6Dw4DzEclZwzXvhYrIoqqGaNIAlaPXq-wgn6QoZsNReWpFbWIso660ALFkZSG3-Y5Q17WiSSKUztg-cxlmFDS-42Vk/s1600/IMG_6468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis8SxSE3X3_I8NyXPiIjHGlQPK3UjMY1PhRg3_yYeGPC2loUcLl6Dw4DzEclZwzXvhYrIoqqGaNIAlaPXq-wgn6QoZsNReWpFbWIso660ALFkZSG3-Y5Q17WiSSKUztg-cxlmFDS-42Vk/s640/IMG_6468.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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I just loved how everything came together. I happened to have the baskets from our first born's nursery, perfect for blankets and extra diapers. Read more about this baby space <a href="http://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2016/09/small-space-solution-baby-wall.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. The knobs, also from Target, gave the vintage vibe an upgrade. Moreover, I knew I could live with this look in <i>our </i>room, a perfect balance of sweet and simple. Pun intended. :) </div>
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El Fin.</div>
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Thank you so much for stopping by!</div>
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Sincerely,<br />Sarah</h2>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-54057381914624372302015-08-16T16:19:00.000-07:002016-12-02T12:04:22.503-08:00At-Home Corner Office? Uhm Yeah!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXAum8o3N7g2VG2464fLiSRJMai6SN-7u3icCr2_d5eu13ZXx-5fvn56Nf35FD8JnRZAab0DRm2D37mW1y5XlSIuv9oDbw6vMPd5nUt-LA9KrNFPWIAt61l-CZQ8hFhMzLgBPNqEIeXuI/s1600/MyOffice-Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXAum8o3N7g2VG2464fLiSRJMai6SN-7u3icCr2_d5eu13ZXx-5fvn56Nf35FD8JnRZAab0DRm2D37mW1y5XlSIuv9oDbw6vMPd5nUt-LA9KrNFPWIAt61l-CZQ8hFhMzLgBPNqEIeXuI/s640/MyOffice-Pin.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Let me start by saying that by "corner office" I mean, a corner in your home that can be utilized to hold a desk, supplies and a seat. That is all you need to have an effective working "corner office" ;)</div>
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This is a corner in my room by the window. Under the desk is the radiator. Which is not used during spring or summer and manually turned on during winter. It was the perfect opportunity to make use of this space. The <u><a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/00251135/" target="_blank">desk</a></u> is from Ikea. My mother in law gave it to me after she had no use for it. I love it because the legs screw on and off so easily. Before I put here, it was under the bed and I would pull out when I needed to craft. Its what you do when you live an in apartment and don't have an extra bedroom to call your craft room (sniff, sniff).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSfe8h4NK7Zw4K_DFN0Hb6Ov5MeS-x5AJPxcFp0kbogZMhrORdGlvkqOUkekJ0bSPJuPUXNv845FJpNuMi7HhYNhoOrZSbibUDw732Nap7q_5CnqA664kNHRlcpEQV6qtYoHTbLp1FDs/s1600/OfficeBefore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSfe8h4NK7Zw4K_DFN0Hb6Ov5MeS-x5AJPxcFp0kbogZMhrORdGlvkqOUkekJ0bSPJuPUXNv845FJpNuMi7HhYNhoOrZSbibUDw732Nap7q_5CnqA664kNHRlcpEQV6qtYoHTbLp1FDs/s640/OfficeBefore.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I then added shelves above the desk and on that blank wall</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNQOSnlwM5z60Mj6AW54hwtegxaeuBnRCmWbYKgljlxpBlS9m0a_nRlXTByFgsgn1DFja8tUPUAU5P4EQ4PeVBO0tGwo-cfPkmug-3qfxl_IkjBBYbKmqGIBeKwUls6K9ijzoBRMHzH0/s1600/plainshelves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNQOSnlwM5z60Mj6AW54hwtegxaeuBnRCmWbYKgljlxpBlS9m0a_nRlXTByFgsgn1DFja8tUPUAU5P4EQ4PeVBO0tGwo-cfPkmug-3qfxl_IkjBBYbKmqGIBeKwUls6K9ijzoBRMHzH0/s640/plainshelves.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The shelves are also from IKEA. They're inexpensive and versatile! I added a personal flair by painting the shelves with some white paint I had in stock and sprayed the brackets gold... along with some other office supplies that I wanted in gold:</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPu5ervm1LaKKK-ZFthAJhb4O7xkEsVe6U-Gsw-TaG159QG4bbdGYUuQwQaHu-J7GHBK-rkQpdxbKwuu9ScrT-MfInJIubAZi8TTTAKoSHMC6ZHhJE1pJscYEhRDHkVt4UkQs6ma_pIM/s1600/IMG_5733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPu5ervm1LaKKK-ZFthAJhb4O7xkEsVe6U-Gsw-TaG159QG4bbdGYUuQwQaHu-J7GHBK-rkQpdxbKwuu9ScrT-MfInJIubAZi8TTTAKoSHMC6ZHhJE1pJscYEhRDHkVt4UkQs6ma_pIM/s640/IMG_5733.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Before.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc9kmqLOiR57zuQA28m4aQ0Pt5IaBzfyLl9mKsZlaOjSxNjCYT7Rhgc-tOXTmWTeI-9mwe9Lni8-gJ185cnNngqSEpdilZBpMBiaolTTH66l8ivrtmM3OPG6i7vn4Yp9POZ58dAD9GBbs/s1600/IMG_5734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc9kmqLOiR57zuQA28m4aQ0Pt5IaBzfyLl9mKsZlaOjSxNjCYT7Rhgc-tOXTmWTeI-9mwe9Lni8-gJ185cnNngqSEpdilZBpMBiaolTTH66l8ivrtmM3OPG6i7vn4Yp9POZ58dAD9GBbs/s640/IMG_5734.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The After!<br />
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I didn't stop there:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW82ZoO3HanyzvNFiRy3WLVtbva7oIDSw3Bsyhxes6VdOBhcoNSVEb5ISPcaurUuNDMOTjDTz6qmxtivWVr39cLeIISvd0AS5dyR7gJFbv8uaKuF7i8jHGfcxPAJgplvBCDdWlTj2-c9Q/s1600/IMG_5735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW82ZoO3HanyzvNFiRy3WLVtbva7oIDSw3Bsyhxes6VdOBhcoNSVEb5ISPcaurUuNDMOTjDTz6qmxtivWVr39cLeIISvd0AS5dyR7gJFbv8uaKuF7i8jHGfcxPAJgplvBCDdWlTj2-c9Q/s640/IMG_5735.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
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Then all I needed to was organize my things. The shelves help keep the clutter OFF the desk, which I need for my laptop, or cutting mat, or my sewing machine and so on...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdjBWNy1quM7e1_pluXrp5LqhPth6huZptonxwR_7VBq4pb-lss23tbBrK53j_kx_hQlNlzbN9nb2E2NBAK4JOEpqGSdlodfxKpgsBexfIQtAIgueQ6acHl8xU1zlvwuLgJIPuTymsj74/s1600/IMG_6314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdjBWNy1quM7e1_pluXrp5LqhPth6huZptonxwR_7VBq4pb-lss23tbBrK53j_kx_hQlNlzbN9nb2E2NBAK4JOEpqGSdlodfxKpgsBexfIQtAIgueQ6acHl8xU1zlvwuLgJIPuTymsj74/s640/IMG_6314.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I then added more elements as I saw fit and necessary. <br />
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Yep, that is a plate rack. I used it to hold my notebooks and planners. I liked that it was designed to fit in a corner and it was cheaper than buying a paper sorter - which isn't as wide as this bad boy. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUxT6UCSsjR-Rcop9QNhUIWP24CL3lkKLNbP96IEDEqrjJkLMgoIpyqlnHHDeSqSXezzYBT8EZzs021_lForNMjIpWu6vlfqBLu08HQfPYnZ_pP435v6kIQRJrRjtVi_fRzhRKfpHf2Q/s1600/IMG_6536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUxT6UCSsjR-Rcop9QNhUIWP24CL3lkKLNbP96IEDEqrjJkLMgoIpyqlnHHDeSqSXezzYBT8EZzs021_lForNMjIpWu6vlfqBLu08HQfPYnZ_pP435v6kIQRJrRjtVi_fRzhRKfpHf2Q/s640/IMG_6536.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh yeah, that's my little guy's crib! Great if your kiddo isn't standing yet. <br />
Not so easy when they can pop up and grab whatever is at arms reach. Eek!</td></tr>
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Living in a small space doesn't mean you need to sacrifice your needs.</div>
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Rethinking your space and giving each room/corner a purpose will help you utilize your space more effectively. </div>
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I'm currently trying to empty a closet in my apartment so I can make it my office, I mean, officially anyway, I find myself hiding out in the closet just to text my friends back and check my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsweetandsimple/" target="_blank">instagram</a> and emails. That's my life, with kids. </div>
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Sincerely, </h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Sarah</h3>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6171466803984021709.post-71384059090433795332015-05-18T22:00:00.000-07:002018-09-19T19:54:13.659-07:00Thrift Store Treasures: Kitchen Sideboard & China Cabinet<div style="text-align: center;">
When we moved in to our new place last April, I knew exactly what I wanted to do about the lack of counter and storage space in the kitchen. I wanted a practical piece to host the things we need, coffee maker, pots, pans and the things I had tucked away or poorly stored, food containers, my honey's sweets and my obsessive dish towel collection. Not to mention, it had to have some serious style; shape and color to compliment my love for all things farmhouse! That's right, this girl lives in Brooklyn... but I have a thing for country life, rustic and vintage style. </div>
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I took my needs and matched it with some visuals... I went to Pinterest (my go-to source for all things creative and home). (And no, I am not paid to endorse). I searched the words "Coffee Bar" since it has been all the rage lately, and with good reason: people with children love coffee. There were a ton of great stuff but the 3 I couldn't stop staring at are as follows:</div>
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<table 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;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo269T58Xr3h7-Squ9g4iKOHiHie1gmtamd8ArKX5eW5jgy1HmcS667DnF3ZldUG-AFwdk_pctXbIBVXLyIw4iYQqDnlVnVYJqmCCwfvm2IXlZHLBNFni8zuizQEMrSjcnrWNBrTh9Za8/s640/coffee+bar+inspo.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="428" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/81487074485357874/" target="_blank">[Source]</a><br />
Why I love it: A perfect place for everything.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpthm-iGk_g_q9pjzKjNMVpwXphGuH_6Wh_IM6w_RPr1vQYmWNK9ABmh2lePWN9CXNFmbjw8w0S0MirAPSGT2LrS3XvUdFDGMlubzFVRZO8HS_Pz61hYBaZPa8TUY4xYMQMyYJ26_KEUI/s640/coffee+bar+2+inspo.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="390" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/81487074483962088/" target="_blank">[Source]</a><br />
Why I love it: It's true to Farmhouse style. Wood, metal and porcelain looking good.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngYuLGgWuY60ERHOomYFCaSnZ2btUnh26Jz9XjZVWRilwAQLPpbwLSUEvX5dMMCTdfMFVaHRMagDuElIMlehZ7JKUBEiFls83vghQu3JlHSZDNWVOH4sE_zg3L38LarB1_E5BWL2OeIE/s1600/coffee+bar+3+inspo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngYuLGgWuY60ERHOomYFCaSnZ2btUnh26Jz9XjZVWRilwAQLPpbwLSUEvX5dMMCTdfMFVaHRMagDuElIMlehZ7JKUBEiFls83vghQu3JlHSZDNWVOH4sE_zg3L38LarB1_E5BWL2OeIE/s640/coffee+bar+3+inspo.jpg" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/81487074483964214/" target="_blank">[Source]</a><br />
Why I love it: That color! and it married what I love about #1 and #2</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo269T58Xr3h7-Squ9g4iKOHiHie1gmtamd8ArKX5eW5jgy1HmcS667DnF3ZldUG-AFwdk_pctXbIBVXLyIw4iYQqDnlVnVYJqmCCwfvm2IXlZHLBNFni8zuizQEMrSjcnrWNBrTh9Za8/s1600/coffee+bar+inspo.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpthm-iGk_g_q9pjzKjNMVpwXphGuH_6Wh_IM6w_RPr1vQYmWNK9ABmh2lePWN9CXNFmbjw8w0S0MirAPSGT2LrS3XvUdFDGMlubzFVRZO8HS_Pz61hYBaZPa8TUY4xYMQMyYJ26_KEUI/s1600/coffee+bar+2+inspo.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><br /></div>
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Now I was on the hunt to find THE piece. Until one day, eight months later, a took a stroll through downtown Brooklyn and dropped by a local thrift store where I found amazing houseware items for $1, a beautiful petite China cabinet that had my name all over it AND my kitchen sideboard. I saw it from across the room and I knew it was "the one". Moreover, the price was right up my alley: $25!!</div>
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I spoke to the store clerk and he told me that I can prepay and pick up within 2 days. But I'd have to rent a moving truck and convince the Mister. Guess what was my biggest struggle? The Mister.</div>
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I called everyday for 2 weeks to confirm that both of my pieces were still there. I also convinced the Mister to let me have them both!! Score!! When we agreed that Saturday 00/00 we'd be able to pick it up, I went down the Thursday prior to purchase my "girls". When the clerk asked me what i was interested in, I pointed out both pieces and she says "I'll give you both for $50", I jumped and shrieked "Sold!" The China cabinet alone was tagged at $75!! I knew I just made the deal of my life!!</div>
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So here they are:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYz7M93d-wcZdNfk-ar0Ot_RO1xErL_zlbxo36pKx_oZ8lmDb-hH7gizjiWrjuZsfcQTjJjHm_-bbZokNzKYAX_Op99q9aXZjcjvdhUwmZMIBW36AkStV9SMy8_5imBY6A5txCvh3P-70/s1600/IMG_5770.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYz7M93d-wcZdNfk-ar0Ot_RO1xErL_zlbxo36pKx_oZ8lmDb-hH7gizjiWrjuZsfcQTjJjHm_-bbZokNzKYAX_Op99q9aXZjcjvdhUwmZMIBW36AkStV9SMy8_5imBY6A5txCvh3P-70/s640/IMG_5770.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinj_nqzKqiwQLIESeJMBVQMU2r7P0GnvTNIWw-oEF_PoOGxwmURWiG8UzXKKWPg2TNYD9AERfdIFDzICRnu_Egr2ZvhZXZ1xOo6GJuY8JyO41zxek0o1s_lJhWvQOJtw2X1aH7aMtCLws/s1600/IMG_5771.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinj_nqzKqiwQLIESeJMBVQMU2r7P0GnvTNIWw-oEF_PoOGxwmURWiG8UzXKKWPg2TNYD9AERfdIFDzICRnu_Egr2ZvhZXZ1xOo6GJuY8JyO41zxek0o1s_lJhWvQOJtw2X1aH7aMtCLws/s640/IMG_5771.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here they are after I convinced The Mister to help me haul them home :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47L9Qx6pbsZu6i0Fy_zG7mOiMrRmy2yNYo5ogMb3kZ86jnxZUw3ml-hWzJ7IAyimQiEEzgF185zTjP-wu7Mh0Rm7mX6ymacXSKJiyjXCnDvZFB16kzrIeMNG28_6yGvbpa7qIXwUnvAE/s1600/IMG_5850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47L9Qx6pbsZu6i0Fy_zG7mOiMrRmy2yNYo5ogMb3kZ86jnxZUw3ml-hWzJ7IAyimQiEEzgF185zTjP-wu7Mh0Rm7mX6ymacXSKJiyjXCnDvZFB16kzrIeMNG28_6yGvbpa7qIXwUnvAE/s640/IMG_5850.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjotKCWpLl4zXuUEfZM6yVlQwCEqzuBteDCBqYtiwLFhEDqZIF02rZBsaQnfBS0yeWhWqDeeJMgn8lTL2lU20lVfdupkZMdF2q74cT4qPbdJxwGvuFcIQmrraSqreUSIC5QPRnoSyfP17k/s1600/IMG_5854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjotKCWpLl4zXuUEfZM6yVlQwCEqzuBteDCBqYtiwLFhEDqZIF02rZBsaQnfBS0yeWhWqDeeJMgn8lTL2lU20lVfdupkZMdF2q74cT4qPbdJxwGvuFcIQmrraSqreUSIC5QPRnoSyfP17k/s640/IMG_5854.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Clearly they need some TLC. Yay! A project!! I am saying this with a twist of sarcasm and enthusiasm :)</div>
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<b><span style="color: #e06666;">UPDATE! </span></b>To see the "After" of the Kitchen sideboard, check out <a href="http://sarahsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2016/01/from-shabby-to-chic-kitchen-sideboard.html" target="_blank">this post</a>!</h2>
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Sincerely,<br />Sarah</h2>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0