February 2015 Before and After!

<p>Hey hey!! Hope you had a wonderful weekend! We were so busy I didn’t have much project time but I did make some progress on a big one I hope to share with you tomorrow. And I’m starting on the kitchen island this week – I can’t wait!!</p> <p>It’s time for the February before and after link up – and as always I’m sharing a few of my favorite projects from last month. Seriously, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again -- blogs are the best thing ever! So many talented people and so much inspiration out there.</p> <p>April shared her <a href="http://www.housebyhoff.com/2015/01/winter-decor/">post-holiday home</a> and it is just so pretty: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jbHOeyEaeDI/VM-WnAAUYAI/AAAAAAAAugs/DkQAjgqydd0/s1600-h/2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="striped curtains" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7f8QC-uNzhg/VM-WoIKfL_I/AAAAAAAAug0/dKS_EnkKACE/2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="striped curtains" width="500" /></a></p> <p>So soothing and I love the neutral colors this time of year. You need to go check it out!</p> <p>Jennifer turned an awkward storage closet into a <a href="http://www.classicstylehome.com/2015/01/mudroom-reveal.html" target="_blank">multi-purpose room</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsRSuCbXAleC8IexXz6ruGP4y3yPdLAmZrWrRyw_taZqtZcSUBh8jbt_YIGQ1WN5K4UVJG1DTh0XD8J_gXoYuZmvXqfmg90mV8tuxvda22hFUhwUrNLuyXDLzEJZWR2PQVn3FHvcrC-0/s1600-h/DSC_4405%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="under the stairs mud room" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSh3xuqUoYn1ZSsHYnF6dlYttIglp32XkEr99jxaJYjtLhRaSIk0wk6jvlR7Uow641Wq42gFSKbDLvhuI6q5Lv8XfiLPvSTTFRruAlAdLOlzxrLi1O3c_ZpUrqHHr5K6cQtGATAx2f_2A/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="under the stairs mud room" width="499" /></a></p> <p>It’s a mud room, a storage room, a pantry – and it looks so good! Beadboard makes just about any space feel fresh and clean. </p> <p>I LOVED this project Heather shared – she used a bunch of “leftovers” to <a href="http://www.heatherednest.com/2014/12/why-i-love-leftovers.html" target="_blank">redo her bathroom</a>:</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nRpDBjUnj_w/VM-WqCIktKI/AAAAAAAAuhM/gJM6rDjM5oQ/s1600-h/1%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="dark gray cabinets bathroom" border="0" height="353" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aNFInQNGchk/VM-Wq_tho6I/AAAAAAAAuhU/DZKq1UEA830/1_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="dark gray cabinets bathroom" width="550" /></a></p> <p>I love that she used extra paint and rummaged around the house to decorate a room she wasn’t happy with. It turned out so well! </p> <p>Ronda hit it out of the park again – you won’t believe how <a href="http://www.batchelorsway.com/2015/01/glam-room-nightstands.html" target="_blank">this dresser</a> started: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0LLYKcake5BGGo9-KYBUF0UFItMr2kEISXoveZJNFRj9ELtAUtDIh0ZRICVRMzrcATAQ4UoSpGgc-iShNtsIbehtjRr_Ws2uug-r-6enU6w9TIo2IYIKSvsHxCIuk08uQPOapmWvNtU/s1600-h/DIY%252520mirror%252520front%252520nightstand%252520collage-batchelorsway.com%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DIY mirror front nightstand" border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrzLIe_j2X5f72cWnzFxDw0lNIBjM-1QWno-6a2JsAmPcmDutDmGoPHHhuvujCrlogE6gLjZbtix0cpYBOfUTT0uF4b1jXpgFqCyRkcIOv2gcGJzCrqEr_S8u3kgzEdTXaVhalY6UHBM/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DIY mirror front nightstand" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Those aren’t mirrors by the way – you have to visit her site to see what she used. Brilliant! </p> <p>Angela shared her incredibly easy <a href="http://www.simplybeautifulbyangela.com/2014/12/diy-baby-gate.html" target="_blank">baby gate project</a> that is WAY cuter than the ones we used to have: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uElO8zM3VqQ/VM-Ws27IqjI/AAAAAAAAuhs/mpL8jJjppgE/s1600-h/3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DIY baby gate" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wSaICBH5-es/VM-WtvKw-oI/AAAAAAAAuh0/PzdUruLkoK0/3_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DIY baby gate" width="500" /></a></p> <p></p> <p>And actually this one is probably less expensive than one from the store too!</p> <p>I love love love the “runner” Suzanne painted <a href="http://piecedpastimes.blogspot.com/2015/01/diy-painted-stair-runner.html" target="_blank">on her steps</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwH_5oYgi3qVvAMGNobTq1NYBqywN1WxBeqx3BV5qp5_CGNB1dpFJK1RvEdew8Wc3-GTbh-Ng5OM35tAsRlsDmkG2WkXGjZ1Tu1c-7fJPxBeMzvDLfItO5hETzQaYSF_EKbF0PgCUHf4/s1600-h/Pieced%252520Pastimes%252520Painted%252520Stair%252520Runner%2525207%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="painted stair runner" border="0" height="676" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5Tb9UtktLtcZLemugnLo710mxR_R61f2BBYMCUGdetlfnOrAKt98fKKJnN7ueVxpfs8Jno1LmZF7rgrW02qajIXTjbypI5jCg04hyphenhyphengxLwcf3bphIb2ovk8j_HW1VWfka5Bbv1q6gpfM/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="painted stair runner" width="450" /></a>It looks so crisp and no carpet to clean! ;)</p> <p>And to round this one up I had to share one of Sarah’s cute spaces:</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CUslVFKvqI4/VM-WvZtCgdI/AAAAAAAAuiM/qbasJd9jrBw/s1600-h/Laundry-Room-Before-and-After-Life-On-Virginia-Street%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="simple laundry room makeover" border="0" height="388" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EkOfnm2Nwj4/VM-WwLDXUCI/AAAAAAAAuiU/9FmsXCpmi4M/Laundry-Room-Before-and-After-Life-On-Virginia-Street_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="simple laundry room makeover" width="550" /></a></p> <p>I love her style and her review comparing <a href="http://lifeonvirginiastreet.com/2014/12/two-year-update/" target="_blank">her home then and now</a> really showcases her talent! </p> <p>OK, it’s time to see what you’ve been up to lately! If you’d like to be considered for next month’s round up, add this button to your post or just a link to TDC: </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px" align="center"><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7326" height="225" src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" title="beforeAndAfterButton_thumb[1]" width="146" /></a></div> <pre style="border-bottom: #cccccc 1px solid; text-align: left; border-left: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-bottom: 10px; margin: auto; padding-left: 10px; width: 90%; padding-right: 10px; display: block; white-space: pre-wrap; background: #f0f0f0; height: 45px; color: #777777; font-size: 90%; overflow: auto; border-top: #cccccc 1px solid; border-right: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-top: 10px"><div align="center"><a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" title="TDC Before and After" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" alt="TDC Before and After" style="border:none;" /></a></div></pre><br /><br /><p>Here you go! Please your own personal projects only!</p><br /><!-- start InLinkz script --><br /><br /><div id="492451" class="InLinkzContainer"><a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/luwpview.php?id=492451" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

February 2015 Before and After!

Hey hey!! Hope you had a wonderful weekend! We were so busy I didn’t have much project time but I did make some progress on a big one I hope...

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Christmas Tree Party, 2014

<p>Well hello! It’s that time again! I’ve hosted this little shindig for six years now – crazy! It’s time to gather together and show off your beautiful Christmas trees and decor:</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TQw6RHL4Z8w/VJLwR98UngI/AAAAAAAAtmg/f0Zi2HJxG7U/s1600-h/treeparty2013%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Thrifty Decor Chick Christmas party" border="0" height="375" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2TakvjpTDAo/VJLwSuYZqwI/AAAAAAAAtmo/6bksppuVw1g/treeparty2013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="Thrifty Decor Chick Christmas party" width="500" /></a></p> <p>But first, mine! :)</p> <p>We usually have four trees in our home – it sounds crazy but one I’ve never even decorated till this year: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKVXHVJmkphOmf3CBycWSeaYbJMMxlu_mZ8EA3f2z9KZgKSexDn5F6Ss7j7x9ax1eOzrdEFMK7BwVxhkYa7wve4XSJPoBwfaKvwvNBv9XmyI9LDLOxXPJe6UZ4Eevz-jUGf5mPcHvZto/s1600-h/IMG_1018%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="skinny Christmas tree" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-VKpbW869ifzlzme_dqimnUhnX5PQDPGXw_wrc-9NZf5I-IdRwqzCbMASGWGgOBkv0oDtD9gxk4HDDrxLVIls4tAmF5oBLP0GaoWVRwC4NwojoSqh5fGcnjHV_ak5oBt4K5x4YCESaPw/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="skinny Christmas tree" width="500" /></a></p> <p>And it was so easy and cheap – check it out <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2014/12/photo-tree-and-holiday-bedroom.html">here</a> if you missed the bedroom tour earlier this week. </p> <p>Another one is a real tree for the kiddo’s stuff – the fun one with colorful ornaments. I love it. (Check out <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-party-2013.html">last year’s party</a> to see it more of that one.) </p> <p>Those two are minimal effort and don’t take up much storage space. </p> <p>A few years back I picked up a flocked tree for our newly finished <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/search/label/basement">basement</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMC6FXigzLC5H4qle_RMcovrUZ-s6J2TQf9FktNiSYKXUrdaoKLJMR2qUdvAQDuKl2wuYVv7Q3S-QssnaNbwG5lDrcAByouARNJxcVTrB5h6Bm3ZqyKD990RUKlhDD_LcSYJDM6rprTtQ/s1600-h/IMG_1067%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="flocked tree " border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj55jf6tZivj74QGmSXJNNJvW3MEb4uRpQcstN_OTjAOCXu3xE4qH9dY3QGSkWofyp6AHIxKO6ChKC0EPOqc2phwym4H92vSrEyJ1iy2_hmLyHjebsoOKwhhz6rw0WUyAFPS6f2IGhsNmM/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="flocked tree " width="500" /></a></p> <p>Goodness, I love this tree. It was from WalMart and I’m still so happy with it. It doesn’t shed a ton of “snow” and you would think it would. It’s just so beautiful. </p> <p>It’s only three pieces and super easy to set up – I had it up and fluffed within 30 minutes. Every Christmas break we pretty much hibernate in the basement for two straight weeks so it is lovely to have this down there: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPqN_rEl7OTpLAFvQ2UWc0Y_xIzSFVEwPm-alHjK7YWEwnqeLXlZNQ2wa27Km9O5ztrY-RO0qTn2XR9qC0bM50mHAzZnrBbwqKWHx2svD5nLgHjz4VGJY_CWbnnbp6yIVU-eitO182PA/s1600-h/IMG_1073%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="flocked tree Walmart" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUUarj2bE9y3DpILkMchcFTeucWooyTkV3ayjTBPbbp9xgXPS9bS7VIN0WJGloqYAeCdVdpVpAr_gTjKxnk8fJgULB0sPSqxCiNJ6HdGm_oF5GlXP_AvT2nfVZ76lvT1nHpheiZI59Ik/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="flocked tree Walmart" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Of our three faux trees I think this one looks the most real. It will look spectacular one day when that electric fireplace behind it is actually built into the wall. Been dreaming up that project for years now. :)</p> <p>And our last one…I have a confession to make about our big tree. I call her Big Bertha. The Beast. Pain in my butt. </p> <p>She’s huge and I kind of dread getting her out every year – isn’t that awful? When she’s up I’m so happy but the process wears me out. My husband goes along with pretty much all of my ideas for decor around the house and rarely has a strong opinion about things…but this tree is his baby. He loves Christmas decor and loves. this. tree. </p> <p>Last year he was out of town and my sister helped me get all the pieces down from the garage – I thought I would be able to make things a bit easier by making it 10 feet tall instead of 12 feet (I didn’t put the bottom piece of the tree on so it was shorter). </p> <p>Swear to God he noticed when he walked in the door – <em>nobody</em> would ever notice!! He did. So this year he pulled it down and we set up his baby in it’s full glory. </p> <p>Twelve feet of tree takes some time to decorate – and it’s a workout on the ladder. Another reason this tree wipes me out? The cats LOVE IT. Our insane kitty literally climbs up around the inside of it and will poke his head out the top. It drives me absolutely crazy: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48J0fejBiiFLj5B8Spkyfws9PImvJGwJUhGzmafgbSn1bN2Ti9XQlPtZ5NAQkxWAz8_5FM0AzQSExxa0o49Myg6bWVyCSGE-1C8e_r8SDeINyyjHX6PmjDpfHEklLGDNIECl6AzIMSeU/s1600-h/Colby%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Colby cat" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVqmzII66wNaRyhzo5MYg_9N6-vIbGC-XMCAYPLdb3LXtw63OgW5mhtp1bWm8yH7Bo0DwTKvjI1pKBvCJpndGamUPowdiz1Sp-ZiS9Yj5pKCYKM2ChAYcAZQtw8Md4-5tPLRTZnfPhjE/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="Colby cat" width="500" /></a></p> <p>But last night I was taking pictures of it and I have to tell you…after pulling the cat out for the 15th time, my heart warmed and I just sat and appreciated Bertha: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxU9R7qPnlrIS1FEb7SAlp4hMdnSGlUUJTkVtt7ljjm6yCbnrAZCEAUcv02Y6-8uwQR2c3R3a4DLnlm1kIGwZQEh_JMSVcbaqxrhZ78dOGGMzX40G9-65SWi3X6n3485hfR_PiOThLSI/s1600-h/IMG_1139%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="brown, gold and red ornaments" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirFJaoTFWsuVML6U6DMHEB3iy4hH8xfdQO-iwG7kouxKqo6wgmkY-a1JKSFT4TM6cIOeIygNwn8JrjWJY8o8gxTxmi17MuT5EEkwI3fIuRZ2hI1w8sX6g9wNOyEOYTpLN_O1FNUZKGdbQ/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="brown, gold and red ornaments" width="500" /></a></p> <p>That snowflake is made from the old Hoosier Dome top for you locals by the way – we spent a lot of time there back in the day so I had to get one. :)</p> <p>She is a beast but my goodness…she is spectacular: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpGY8Gh7kF9r6vsYQv1eH1h0N4vNq9NJzG1LPRYAu4hMCEdZdyPI4LAsj07MnUDmtlz6P4YXGubohyxQKUxPIwagd2TthxQrMWNeZBII6fgKvMVUbXJhfPdqWWWkiFkW3hyphenhyphen2uYSk2ty4/s1600-h/IMG_1076%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="12 foot Christmas tree" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTZNFLItmGiLpnKrFE_YWKdcdEG-MfbjQ9PMAJmMUyB6UmQ92OfnM8kA4jc3agQvcVMTX0IT9Ota0F9YPRFWtMseILYcO8PUZWTBdfJONIlhd4bLVuKYXPPVCN3hQiOqtsN9VeWZ6BZU/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="12 foot Christmas tree" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It’s all worth it. :) And I love that my husband loves the tree so dang much: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpWPTV444Du9vfOl9GddREqrDDWZ-mp6x8tbfCi8AOVTBE8X1l2RggQEsNDGtNV0NsFhB4EgJ6SFDo7dkFNBD3m0X888gXKOrVW27Yvglu590lzIry6V7tKHBquDjhOYYboLZjKDFQgv8/s1600-h/IMG_1078%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="train around tree" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebjXx2HOrhAf1cLm7KuvWZkCPn4Jno8zu4ZdO7gT5fSPP01nVP46l4uO1NHiNkS0ts9wuX0NaLTFKVKMqVOGMz959yMDZzFZRYhTteRDw9DNat4IdczGDf5a9JSiu4ImAs6eFG_afnEE/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="train around tree" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Although I’d be fine if this guy lost a little of the love: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQSYu4AkxVPLhXgwFnZPY-2k_ZCwUvmoQvpG6TFl4V27rEBlfPDKT1l__aq0pUWsBICWI0_ui8lhs4X4XkC8FZmZ1MpqCF-nFZryIceIJw59Hz-WxNLlNFZHKf5iITLRh3kUSR2qqsbc/s1600-h/IMG_1083%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Lowe's fake tree, 12 feet " border="0" height="730" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4w263A6o6LudB7UP0Ck2q3jW_KG6IUQogqa9MxIVHCAA5Di1l-Eyf6-T7TFb9BU9wDDFBvO13YyZDoBxXiMdJP48bUENAd_NQ3vtQVU1EhMxezSORZBAuL3FyDgeIfi5tL2mCVJYzsYI/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="Lowe's fake tree, 12 feet " width="500" /></a></p> <p>I’m not gonna lie – I got a little emotional standing there last night, just taking a moment to enjoy it. </p> <p>It is magnificent. :) Here’s the view from our second level:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8yQgwVE3_JLQBLRlAQ9gWzophA1r0STytqm8zwTvIc2shwqCAFPkWP9soy56aKrFMfVowxkKar5d5H0CIuJ3SgpRXVgRLYPmY1g1wi04L4ZGIacpzXHNQtrjFiVxzYwByEjU5NwVXBK0/s1600-h/IMG_1097%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="12 foot tree" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHNtfCNrF8EM1UrP-ImvraSuZHVL02HDf6Bv8uTrnt6WZpzD5xB1sYv51SbdTCmpQh_1CYNlXJfOUunPI9XnCGeAnEa01KExjumLrkq9lUW97NTZJLCRVEGpJGnpRj7-4OKh5YbpiO_4o/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="12 foot tree" width="500" /></a></p> <p>My “Fa la la” prints went back into the frames and they reflect the light beautifully: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgbp63tPWc7sqzGZsvszdW5OEBPGWa8sUWyfsuCqtj6pk4CCqMQLbOxorlMfPOd_WJxw63R3R27P2K5bu9gRmbGb2rVf7cc8HoeAvT10HmvBmW5YMIqjrMTntcitMo_Wno3jyjiB3O8ys/s1600-h/IMG_1113%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Fa la la art" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvMSRiYEzjKyCxM58fT5928aVpXwwD5If21IohHAKrhQmR4YEG1TbvmegwRAlFHLox3GE8XxvOFqLqpcI0EwuPRqss22PLbvKf6WEmPi8zIkp4aw4t1CLZ74sGa_atIf0_9OQJIP8yoc/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="Fa la la art" width="500" /></a></p> <p>And of course a little bokeh never hurts:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIqmJ9FqdJUhihWJop4-Z1R5zVs3tQ7WzYn9-yIRIR1F_kVI_fsDD_mty7XZxVfCDRoarlbPp3LstQBjEjLyj_-cDtrh-BpN_bOfGmSa5QFUBARV28Q1ZmLv7Z95a_eqLPHFfSk2bFNeU/s1600-h/IMG_1117%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="bokeh Christmas tree" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKzUDgwDzWPQMwlyeLycuruEhQNWA9tYLZml14MmRn6lJVKB2lL4xK_glQg52lFqirijdfJWzX-Xv5sjG5hkbAD1Vuq_tAKikAfLKG2YWdo-uwVwuCpm4ldXg9ihUOOpOajhG7rQNQEVY/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="bokeh Christmas tree" width="500" /></a> Whew. It’s a lot of work but after all is said and done…so worth it. There is NOTHING like sitting by a lit up tree with all the lights off, am I right? So grateful. </p> <p>Now I can’t wait to see your tree and decor! Link up here – and if you’d like to link back to TDC it would be appreciated but it is not mandatory. </p> <p>I’ll be back on Monday – I’m currently in freak out mode to get all the shopping done. ;) Have a great weekend my friends!!</p> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id="478065" class="InLinkzContainer"><a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/luwpview.php?id=478065" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div> <script type="text/javascript" src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

Christmas Tree Party, 2014

Well hello! It’s that time again! I’ve hosted this little shindig for six years now – crazy! It’s time to gather together and show off your ...

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June before and after!

<p>Hello everybody! It’s time to kick off June (can you believe it?) with another before and after link up. I so enjoy looking through all your projects and homes – blogs are pretty awesome. :) </p> <p>I’m sharing a few that caught my eye and then we’ll see what you’re up to this month. I was SHOCKED when I saw the before photo of this sofa:</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-33H8xtr-7cI/U4ycpks2N2I/AAAAAAAAoKc/sqrcgzcedtY/s1600-h/DSC_1097%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="upholstering old sofa" border="0" height="367" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AmzAXOFQZQE/U4ycqr2BPKI/AAAAAAAAoKk/ucngYIXoy4I/DSC_1097_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="upholstering old sofa" width="550" /></a></p> <p>It was a Craigslist find and <a href="http://www.dwellbycheryl.com/2014/04/craigslist-sofa-makeover-2.html?m=0" target="_blank">Cheryl had incredible vision</a> (and a great upholsterer) – it just goes to show that a good quality sofa can be transformed. I absolutely love the new look. </p> <p>There were two kitchen redos that caught my eye – first up was Laura’s before and after: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Smp41Ej4edc/U4ycrUWnTnI/AAAAAAAAoKs/XPGaw5rSShw/s1600-h/Before%252520and%252520After1%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="kitchen redo white cabinets" border="0" height="647" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zr6pqVdanaE/U4ycsE_uCgI/AAAAAAAAoK0/2iVpJ5BG53U/Before%252520and%252520After1_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="kitchen redo white cabinets" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Can you believe the difference? Amazing! She shared a whole <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2014/05/housiversary-house-tour.html" target="_blank">before and after house tour</a>, be sure to check it out. </p> <p>Michelle shared the progress <a href="http://decorandthedog.net/decorandthedog/2014/4/8/then-and-now-kitchen" target="_blank">her kitchen</a> has made over the years as well: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Iwr41vPCZes/U4ycs00OJeI/AAAAAAAAoK8/PiMUWMIgwvs/s1600-h/1397007366917%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white kitchen white backsplash" border="0" height="403" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--TSGoroXeXE/U4yct8T-9mI/AAAAAAAAoLE/81NZ4kEyaKs/1397007366917_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="white kitchen white backsplash" width="550" /></a></p> <p>Her kitchen table is gorgeous too! </p> <p>I love a good knock off and I love a lighting knock off even more – <a href="http://designertrapped.com/2014/04/west-elm-bentwood-pendant-light-knockoff.html" target="_blank">Tasha’s take</a> on a West Elm light fixture was brilliant: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKyZlaOLvDRVg7ajlNwRU9MeMyEPxu80L9NLjm4XgeiKu1t9gCLodZys88G1_Pa_7U-epWrSrByPgH1oHfVMDqQwvaE9mNRMl7xdTfbn72o2t88B7j3424a8YsNGDClAHVgCe323_Ueo/s1600-h/West-Elm-light-2-633x1024%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="west elm bentwood knock off" border="0" height="780" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9P23Xf0FuDSMdn4_6u8mxBWR7k9SnIE4XzILJkDonqJiWN9pp-e_zRTkg9tzq1GRkiUOI73DIesV4yIqe0ZQkD5lWmuftg5t7eHRP8zo2_XNfH6TAAppg6G1T-I1e9uAOJFVfchDXTzk/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="west elm bentwood knock off" width="482" /></a></p> <p>And <a href="http://www.lovelyetc.com/2014/04/easy-inexpensive-diy-orb-chandelier/" target="_blank">Carrie’s fixture</a> was so simple it’s just ridiculous: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4hZBSdc82Pc/U4ycwrgfrBI/AAAAAAAAoLc/pHkl8aBE6eo/s1600-h/DIY-light-for-just-20-and-one-hour%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="orb light fixture knock off" border="0" height="367" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_aO_OM2rBfo/U4ycxVGpX7I/AAAAAAAAoLk/a-sITmcOO60/DIY-light-for-just-20-and-one-hour_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="orb light fixture knock off" width="550" /></a></p> <p>I have one of those orbs and the thought never even crossed my mind! </p> <p>Haeley shared one of the easiest, cheapest tricks for large artwork: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZ7JYwoI_USWmn_aOcByB3723BkFrdUP09ntiZ5khjS1KSjHkdvEwgLy1JhchwWebLa0eEKd4lgD2i08cGlOjmK8Up0agTmR35p7luAlhzFZdD228Wz3HNKSVaTqaRNaFYgU_RA8F6YA/s1600-h/Master-Bedroom-Ideas-8%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DIY art with canvas and fabric" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnyTczCnNekb-bCSc76JxvYyEEisZsXsK2U_8ZFKMC2KoQo-YpqxEM-nCXqhG-vdFJOn6yVT2_RyykdlMKvzTHkF72f0EbijJ4y9mOZYOdkNE49BcGmJZOSiksotKu1LCY28cwdVSo_Qo/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DIY art with canvas and fabric" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Her whole master bedroom turned out beautifully, check it out <a href="http://www.designimprovised.com/2014/05/master-bedroom-ideas.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>So inspiring, all of you! </p> <p>As always, if you’d like to pin these projects, please do so from their respective sites. :) </p> <p>Now let’s see what you’ve been up to over the past month! If you’d like to be considered for next month’s review, please include a link to TDC or this button in your post: </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px" align="center"><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7326" height="225" src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" title="beforeAndAfterButton_thumb[1]" width="146" /></a></div> <pre style="border-bottom: #cccccc 1px solid; text-align: left; border-left: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-bottom: 10px; margin: auto; padding-left: 10px; width: 90%; padding-right: 10px; display: block; white-space: pre-wrap; background: #f0f0f0; height: 45px; color: #777777; font-size: 90%; overflow: auto; border-top: #cccccc 1px solid; border-right: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-top: 10px"><div align="center"><a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" title="TDC Before and After" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" alt="TDC Before and After" style="border:none;" /></a></div></pre><br /><br /><p>Here you go!: </p><br /><!-- start InLinkz script --><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=411977"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

June before and after!

Hello everybody! It’s time to kick off June (can you believe it?) with another before and after link up. I so enjoy looking through all your...

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May before and after!

<p>Hey all! It’s the first Monday of the month and that means it’s party time! <em>Excellent. </em></p> <p>It’s the day you all share one of my favorite things in the decor/DIY world – before and afters. I can’t get enough of them. I will kick it off with a few of the awesome projects linked up last month. </p> <p>Cassie did one of my all time favorite decorating tricks – painting the <a href="http://primitiveandproper.blogspot.com/2014/03/black-backed-living-room-bookcases.html" target="_blank">backs of her bookcases</a>: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PMezRGbwhLA/U2ekHB5Cy0I/AAAAAAAAnV4/HwZpkmkxYJQ/s1600-h/bookcase%252520head%252520on%252520closer%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="painting backs of bookcases" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Otc058rPApk/U2ekI6f1ZRI/AAAAAAAAnWA/udNXjYcpmSw/bookcase%252520head%252520on%252520closer_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="painting backs of bookcases" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I always love the look (I think it makes everything pop) and her black color is super sexy. I think it just makes all the accessories more dramatic. (You can see my gray blue background on our bookcases <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2014/04/updated-80s-light-fixture.html" target="_blank">here</a>.) </p> <p>You MUST go check out <a href="http://eatathomecooks.com/2014/03/new-pantry-inside-outside-resources.html" target="_blank">Tiffany’s new pantry</a>. <strong>Must.</strong> It is fantastic: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6geh0ccGDArkLULpN8jAzRaFmXnhv5YCFyo2jG_XQb8ATeGzL9MfYzCrhtOAr0REC9RdeDcQOJZInNOepf_dkUE8y57loteWCXnRMCBCZngix3GPaQ9e7TsWrS7c4PfyG9a2WoHUj8Lc/s1600-h/pantry-front%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="built in pantry with drawers" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKoULzluRiaNaZaT4ku2FipXTuhPaYiBvyxMNjv45IifAdDFGgiHDu8ZzGY8QwybEAru_DObfOR2p0873gwBa_LTIMqx4QZKSl-ItdvbvoeTpfZA_6bMkhyphenhyphen8KbIvzWhDk2AENiZqW_vo/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="built in pantry with drawers" width="480" /></a></p> <p>Drawers people. Brilliant. I want drawers everywhere. (And there’s a little surprise on the sides.)</p> <p>Bethany’s kitchen has been undergoing a redo and it looks SO good:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3TewtqYekQACyT0852DniivRvFXT-zajqo4DwGxDC5glKgMhsEW2-DPYIy6WIobe8WXjO2n_rP1oAJpYlYLmQzmxVebpdkgbQCLHHwemtiiHuX6rEZ4JAKY0mxI3DmvUCsPPzDmhPWo/s1600-h/blog%252520april%2525202014%252520033%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="blue island" border="0" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVv5Erh3fOftQOM0pgxLPFAfzExyDZt_ex2XGo_b-_Si1Qn516Z14J_WSZxr_H6PMVmXsbAJDeTqc_35ll8WWN-4ouBxRqph2P57_0vBbsKCr03PkO89eMEH-39QatSRXbapKDHmMqDI/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="blue island" width="550" /></a> I especially love the detail they added to the island and I dig the blue color. (<a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/04/board-and-batten-kitchen-island.html" target="_blank">My island</a> is light blue and I still love it.) Her before and after is pretty amazing, check it out <a href="http://3sonsplus1.blogspot.com/2014/04/our-kitchen-part-two-ish-flooring.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </p> <p>Man, I love a bright white kitchen, but I love contrast too. Julie’s black cabinets look so good, and she shares a GREAT, detailed tutorial on <a href="http://beinghomedecor.com/2014/04/super-simple-diy-tile-backsplash-tutorial.html" target="_blank">tiling your backsplash</a>: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ASqsLFtcGzw/U2ekSJeKU8I/AAAAAAAAnWo/mW8SXA4IQKY/s1600-h/StoveBacksplash2-753x1024%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="how to tile a backsplash" border="0" height="680" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PUSM4-D6Ybw/U2ekTpnxhOI/AAAAAAAAnWw/FUBDnmYQ_nA/StoveBacksplash2-753x1024_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="how to tile a backsplash" width="500" /></a></p> <p>That choice of tile is perfect with the black cabs and stainless appliances. Love it. </p> <p>Sometimes the simplest project make the biggest impact. Kammy took a regular rug and turned it up a notch <a href="http://www.kammyskorner.com/2014/02/painted-striped-rug-wordless-wednesday.html" target="_blank">with paint</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1Ilg6xamTigunF3WepoqWs6IbH9BzEFXR0biOAK4ySY9WVy7Gg49CrjuigYue5j2M14wouKnBEo8lFrnTYXYHAw6iB8GdS9IiHxZ1Gt3t8FUvpxLGPKHzlSKMGKtF-ZO6IsHDGsP02g/s1600-h/rug%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="painting stripes on rug" border="0" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMCT7AiovuPxJ3R89NNyran7w4RBWt5EAZ672Dl4SuNOJHtor_Gb2dmbY1-I6BZqgfBJGnaaNHJLkCCa6SfB2n8_CJ-xiZorDnEJJUCnSD4-pSLjtL9MKJV8tZpMAM1d8cap5SJx6vvY/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="painting stripes on rug" width="500" /></a> </p> <p>What a difference! Stripes make many things better. :) </p> <p>Jaime’s mudroom underwent a little redo with paint and a few little details: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmddB2XbMPJPkG-3YQid59_sYLTDGehdpyquWGQBK06zpy-wNkkqX-cxRA1jtEA1UHQYH2miAyGY89uePrApMF1Kv3wjPlK35NYv8SAyOzX2zYTkA7sJWD7gmZi0Zl9hhAOl1j9Cu9fk/s1600-h/mudroom%252520makeover%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="mudroom makeover" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLr_ohqreeAEWJhQOQsJ8veaUDqCQnSPT-yGG3RIsvQuEzty_-NFjolsFWanceY6ezh2iBByj5kidjLzvhQ2P51N-1OuLoSsOH4CaDv_Pcn2QUT0XTkHN2q33Ackkrt-1bxexMH483Xjs/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="mudroom makeover" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Again, it wasn’t a big reno, but little projects like paint and hooks that make the difference here. Love her door with the window too. You can check it all out <a href="http://thatsmyletter.blogspot.com/2014/02/m-is-for-mudroom-makeover.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p>Andrea finished off her dining room with <a href="http://decoratingcents.blogspot.com/2014/03/new-dining-chairs.html" target="_blank">new chairs</a> (that are lovely):  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tz_cGpBLJX0/U2ekbyR1x4I/AAAAAAAAnXY/TtCk8wMHUxg/s1600-h/dining%252520room34%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="stenciled wall dining room" border="0" height="667" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qh2wfed81yk/U2ekdFD_XZI/AAAAAAAAnXg/-KfPL6FXqvM/dining%252520room34_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="stenciled wall dining room" width="500" /></a></p> <p>But it’s that stenciled wall and wood starburst mirror that really stood out to me. Such a beautiful, well done space! </p> <p>It’s always hard for me to pick just a few projects to highlight! If you’d like to be considered for next month’s round up, be sure to include a link to TDC in your post or add this button: </p> <p><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7326" height="225" src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" title="beforeAndAfterButton_thumb[1]" width="146" /></a></p> <pre style="border-bottom: #cccccc 1px solid; text-align: left; border-left: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-bottom: 10px; margin: auto; padding-left: 10px; width: 90%; padding-right: 10px; display: block; white-space: pre-wrap; background: #f0f0f0; height: 45px; color: #777777; font-size: 90%; overflow: auto; border-top: #cccccc 1px solid; border-right: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-top: 10px"><div align="center"><a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" title="TDC Before and After" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" alt="TDC Before and After" style="border:none;" /></a></div></pre><br /><br /><p>I have the pin it button installed but I ask that you pin from each respective site instead of mine if you want to save these projects. </p><br /><br /><p>Now it’s time to see what you’ve been up to lately! I hope to see some outdoor projects creeping in. :) I’m finally starting some of my own! It’s about dang time. </p><br /><!-- start InLinkz script --><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=402091"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

May before and after!

Hey all! It’s the first Monday of the month and that means it’s party time! Excellent. It’s the day you all share one of my favorite thing...

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March before and after!

<p>Good Monday to ya! We only got a few inches of snow this weekend instead of the up-to-14 that was predicted, so although the grass is covered once again, I’m OK with it. The sun is shining today and I think this was the last snow of the season. </p> <p>I cannot WAIT to get outside working in the dirt again! </p> <p>It’s time for another before and after shindig, and as always I was completely blown away by the projects linked up last month. I hope you enjoy these recaps – I for one love the thrill of finding a new blog to follow. :) </p> <p>First up, my friend Myra knocked it out of the park with her <a href="http://myblessedlife.net/2014/02/bathroom-makeover.html" target="_blank">gorgeous bathroom redo</a>:  </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8Yquxw6BZ9RpfU-NNhftgAxr_NbkDeByra7HM83TRdQersOZbtklojSEyRO8oMfPtb3M8qF3h0bEiQMJddY1LMzbKZAtZm4iElrvqnibNQs6sNNyXeQeM3WEm69c-pZdPlgoYQ-_eEI/s1600-h/Bathroom-Renovation-Pin%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="subway tile bathroom" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPL_ZFNlPSfS3XKA0h0aWZAEnPuaTnlAdgrPsQJU3jJKWTtppZizjWjuN-w_SuKEPhu-WRtR3zrOrezzVf5WlJGwNLGWViOcPJ9PLJ_VgiRE85anl6jdIcHdBM7dSeSXQ4e4jmLQ3t0g/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="subway tile bathroom" width="500" /></a></p> <p>SO pretty right? It makes me want to tear out our bathroom and start over. </p> <p>I’m a sucker for the light walls in Myra’s bathroom but I am still so taken with a deep color too: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LcUKl79Wps4/UxShHayO86I/AAAAAAAAlik/1vLifZ3uv_Y/s1600-h/IMG_2716%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="dark blue walls " border="0" height="333" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nc6liP1sVG8/UxShH3J3laI/AAAAAAAAlis/h9i0KFMCe_M/IMG_2716_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="dark blue walls " width="500" /></a></p> <p>Tasha’s family room looks SO good. I loved all of her choices (especially that paint color!) and her cement fireplace look amazing, you must check it out <a href="http://designertrapped.com/2014/01/family-room-reveal.html " target="_blank">here</a>. </p> <p>Lindsey made a space in the basement into <a href="http://girlmeetscarpenter.blogspot.com/2013/08/our-craft-room.html" target="_blank">a craft room</a> and all the storage has me drooling: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fTmh7hm2WwA/UxShIqo4pkI/AAAAAAAAli0/2REh5yO6Esk/s1600-h/IMG_1267%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="craft room storage" border="0" height="334" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5uNg9XM4wD0/UxShJF_hrQI/AAAAAAAAli8/6ASEvhyEaB8/IMG_1267_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="craft room storage" width="500" /></a></p> <p>There’s even a hidden door to get into this space. I have a thing for hidden doors/rooms – they are just the coolest. </p> <p>Cristina shares another fantastic tutorial, this time for <a href="http://www.remodelandolacasa.com/2014/01/ignkwktj.html" target="_blank">DIY pull out drawers</a>: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xeTVc-gR3-M/UxShJxwP1YI/AAAAAAAAljE/PwfjIfZ0ibE/s1600-h/Pull%252520out%252520shelves%252520in%252520pantry%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DIY pull out shelves" border="0" height="765" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JH7U6gO_HBM/UxShKmOI-YI/AAAAAAAAljM/Vfe7tviY5Dc/Pull%252520out%252520shelves%252520in%252520pantry_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DIY pull out shelves" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Which is perfect timing because I’m planning to do this in our closet!  </p> <p>Speaking of closets – they’ve been on my mind a lot lately. :) Sharon’s gorgeous <a href="http://www.lilikoijoy.com/2014/01/from-functional-to-fantastique-master.html" target="_blank">master closet redo</a> had me drooling: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QU_PfPnRgl8/UxShLRVG66I/AAAAAAAAljU/VVsBhIqP4lY/s1600-h/after%252520master%252520closet%2525203%252520textx%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="gold stenciled wall" border="0" height="780" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VVqbjx9nfOI/UxShMDsvOlI/AAAAAAAAljc/xTesqLZKQeE/after%252520master%252520closet%2525203%252520textx_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="gold stenciled wall" width="481" /></a> </p> <p>Wow it looks so good! That stenciled back wall totally glams up the space. Love it!</p> <p>Elisha knocked off a <a href="http://pneumaticaddict.blogspot.com/2014/01/world-market-aiden-coffee-table-knock.html" target="_blank">World Market coffee table</a> that I’ve been eyeing for while: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4G2TqhW6rapZZNKg1qTZMAYtZVKr2OqB5ErTrK4ozHn2v6dcq0TqU_SmdfKycpImBxGPY1JGpfeO6rZvdJQaMB8hDGMbYLoZoT0jAtNUIfbEL3RspcIT5hhzHKv0k2Ec0Lf8iubDwoU/s1600-h/DIY%252520Industrial%252520Coffee%252520Table%2525201%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DIY Industrial Coffee Table" border="0" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHyTj-yJZkQDHjRwWJRbPePb_qwSbcEpfIyY0cHgrWqv7ijFlS6y8UqWIwDEqmNa11yen3zetsEaVJyafwEejbcNMFh5VfgQySv1KRa59dZsK2WZps5Eo8i0cm8gDT5d6eXnjst9vuzM/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DIY Industrial Coffee Table" width="500" /></a></p> <p>The girl even welds! I’m totally impressed, it looks so good. And I love her blog name. :) </p> <p>Brooke <a href="http://www.allthingsthrifty.com/2014/01/how-to-stain-an-ugly-oak-banister-dark.html" target="_blank">restained her oak banisters</a> and the difference is so dramatic: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gJ2oPzaecQEY2QT3PS6Q3YLEAef_9eYh21bOjS2fl_BR3Upa2bpuSUS2oDnclGub-3PP8_n95SGB9MffEdSIuWUP2VDZJRUnq7LmlxBsp3C5PTApmLDDqyJdaJ2llWKnWP1QK5MURKk/s1600-h/how-to-stain-an-oak-banister%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="staining oak banister" border="0" height="780" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrh8q0tnqy6mQ_2skJNjhcXDdjaipB17WeNZhGQ9txzSZ8g7cIwQ6nkuEkkRv1TeGQa4ZwLc_UWswIPgJS-Ujqkoq3FzXey_nOQ7NmR029PaBG6dJ1YzvDiCWljNkKD19mwUiD5IUbp8o/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="staining oak banister" width="390" /></a></p> <p>You’d be surprised to learn that there’s not a ton of sanding involved! She shares the whole how-to in the post. </p> <p>So much talent, so little blog space. :) As always, please visit the respective sites to pin any of their images. </p> <p>Now it’s time to see what you’ve been up to lately. If you’d like to be considered for next month’s recap, please link back to TDC in your post or include this button code in your post: </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px" align="center"><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7326" height="225" src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" title="beforeAndAfterButton_thumb[1]" width="146" /></a></div> <pre style="border-bottom: #cccccc 1px solid; text-align: left; border-left: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-bottom: 10px; margin: auto; padding-left: 10px; width: 90%; padding-right: 10px; display: block; white-space: pre-wrap; background: #f0f0f0; height: 45px; color: #777777; font-size: 90%; overflow: auto; border-top: #cccccc 1px solid; border-right: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-top: 10px"><div align="center"><a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" title="TDC Before and After" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" alt="TDC Before and After" style="border:none;" /></a></div></pre><br /><br /><p>Here you go!: </p><br /><!-- start InLinkz script --><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=379225"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

March before and after!

Good Monday to ya! We only got a few inches of snow this weekend instead of the up-to-14 that was predicted, so although the grass is covere...

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February Before and After!

<p>Wow wow WOW, you all linked up so many AWESOME projects at the Before and After Party <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2014/01/january-before-and-after.html">last month</a>. I was seriously so inspired. It’s time for another party today, but first we need to look back at a few of those projects! </p> <p>Roeshel knocked this out. of. the. park. – her wood and pipe industrial pantry is just so GOOD: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CYCld_jdBgDa2MP0_6c6lsakVtKjcFPZWQ68GWHwq5GI__8VbgTcP4VoTy3q_21asDZCO2Hkb0vB3pnXqnca8F5SOzdicfvufekNiPBjAHLlReTuaw5FYFPqf2O9H8EbfWi7v631mOU/s1600-h/DIYShowOff-Pantry-Makeover.jpg"><img alt="wood and pipe shelving" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAXNO7Prp0WOekEATPMYBfogy-wRDh3zaRC658gG36rn9DB2TzQk1ZDF9F_XeXROBYJ0__8BCEdiQ1k_-tj59pE6osc7duQc2V3Cs7Z9uk9qWZDUUtBHoUwqkYZoD94rYUs6JpewUYao/?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="wood and pipe shelving" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I love the walls, the rug, the lights (!) and of course the shelving. Just fantastic. See more of the transformation <a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2014/01/03/pantry-organization/">here</a>. </p> <p>I always have to share a kitchen redo, right? <a href="http://graceleecottage.blogspot.com/2014/01/our-newest-kitchen-addition.html">Leah’s kitchen</a> turned out so beautifully: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A6uokRNRzKI/Uu-0uV6D1bI/AAAAAAAAk3o/LE2m-eVXwD0/s1600-h/new%252520range%252520hood%2525202.jpg"><img alt="painted cabinets" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-l7KFy3wvx-Q/Uu-0vBy2rrI/AAAAAAAAk3w/OwrRzflLXSI/new%252520range%252520hood%2525202_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="painted cabinets" width="500" /></a> </p> <p>And the changes were really fairly simple ones – paint and a backsplash are the biggies. Both of those made a <strong>big</strong> difference! </p> <p>I’m pretty sure <a href="http://worthwhiledomicile.blogspot.com/2013/12/guest-room-reveal-omg-before.html">Tiffany’s guest room</a> is now the prettiest I’ve ever seen: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3q0v5mzBqM8/Uu-0vyEbruI/AAAAAAAAk34/W_i_IU9WNug/s1600-h/DSC02365%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="light green bedroom" border="0" height="667" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uEFUXojBKiA/Uu-0wl7CayI/AAAAAAAAk4A/07n1SrfNUWo/DSC02365_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="light green bedroom" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I love that she went bold with the graphic wall – it works so well with the other green touches throughout the room. Just lovely. I’d stay over any night! :) </p> <p>I know this fireplace has been a <a href="http://evolutionofstyleblog.blogspot.com/2013/12/diy-stone-fireplace-reveal-for-real.html">thorn in Jenny’s side</a> and I’m so excited that she’s done and it turned out <em>so</em> well: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lSVAzHSwIhA/Uu-0xp3OvhI/AAAAAAAAk4I/w0sJq9Hk1kc/s1600-h/DSC_3268%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="stacked stone fireplace" border="0" height="753" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5TlvjAGyrgE/Uu-0ytR88aI/AAAAAAAAk4Q/acn7gYsipeM/DSC_3268_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="stacked stone fireplace" width="500" /></a></p> <p>She installed that stone by herself, I’m so impressed! It looks like it should have always been there, love it. </p> <p>Talk about impressed – Michelle shares their DIY farmhouse table plans <a href="http://decorandthedog.net/decorandthedog/2013/11/12/how-to-build-a-farmhouse-table-diy-tutorial">here</a>: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LQIgkmIx0rM/Uu-0zuOq8MI/AAAAAAAAk4Y/oosBbLyi54Y/s1600-h/Farmhouse%252520Table%252520Reveal.%252520Farmhouse%252520table%252520with%252520colorful%252520chairs%252521%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Farmhouse Table plans" border="0" height="365" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--mQdK7Jo9oM/Uu-00db0vAI/AAAAAAAAk4g/VF1aVVEA7Vg/Farmhouse%252520Table%252520Reveal.%252520Farmhouse%252520table%252520with%252520colorful%252520chairs%252521_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="Farmhouse Table plans" width="550" /></a></p> <p>Love the white (chunky!) legs and that tabletop. So well done. </p> <p>Here’s another gorgeous table – Jacqui <a href="http://brookeeva.com/table-diy/">sanded down the top</a> of her old one to work with her new chairs and it all came together so beautifully: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3Haa0VWQrd0/Uu-01GfGtnI/AAAAAAAAk4o/pprKi_RS9JA/s1600-h/BLOG-TABLE-DIY-FINAL2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="sanding down a table" border="0" height="736" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LwShRwYyvOk/Uu-014PkvhI/AAAAAAAAk4w/oMlHayNSeMY/BLOG-TABLE-DIY-FINAL2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="sanding down a table" width="500" /></a> </p> <p>Love that natural wood, it’s hot right now and I don’t see it going anywhere soon. </p> <p>Hayley made some simple changes in her bathroom that made a HUGE difference: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-phE7QLGLa2U/Uu-02qAwt9I/AAAAAAAAk44/7xEuRcs5PMs/s1600-h/img_0124%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="simple bathroom updates" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GJ_2u8PHzS8/Uu-03dSvf-I/AAAAAAAAk5A/PIzggSly_gM/img_0124_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="simple bathroom updates" width="500" /></a></p> <p>You have to check out <a href="http://allthingsnewinteriors.com/2013/12/30/makeover-monday-one-day-bathroom-reno-part-2-and-the-reveal/">the before</a> to see how far it’s come. </p> <p>And finally, but certainly not least, Cheryl shared an absolutely gorgeous <a href="http://www.dwellbycheryl.com/2014/01/a-new-year-anniversary-and-reveal.html">room makeover</a>: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GpWDgc7AbG4/Uu-04FGbKMI/AAAAAAAAk5I/aGWVw-NzhAs/s1600-h/20131221_14_37_46a%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="stone fireplace to ceiling" border="0" height="367" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O1Yuf5RditE/Uu-05DP8aGI/AAAAAAAAk5Q/NK3ge_D9Beo/20131221_14_37_46a_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="stone fireplace to ceiling" width="550" /></a></p> <p>So many beautiful details, you have to go over to see it all. My favorites are the fireplace and the gorgeous dresser under the television. Love. </p> <p>OK, beautiful, right? I’m in awe, as always! Now it’s time to see what you’ve been up to! If you’d like to be considered for next month’s round up, please link back or you can add this code to your post: </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px" align="center"><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7326" height="225" src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" title="beforeAndAfterButton_thumb[1]" width="146" /></a></div> <pre style="border-bottom: #cccccc 1px solid; text-align: left; border-left: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-bottom: 10px; margin: auto; padding-left: 10px; width: 90%; padding-right: 10px; display: block; white-space: pre-wrap; background: #f0f0f0; height: 45px; color: #777777; font-size: 90%; overflow: auto; border-top: #cccccc 1px solid; border-right: #cccccc 1px solid; padding-top: 10px"><div align="center"><a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" title="TDC Before and After" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/beforeAndAfterButton_thumb1.gif" alt="TDC Before and After" style="border:none;" /></a></div></pre><br /><br /><p>Have fun! </p><br /><!-- start InLinkz script --><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=368708"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

February Before and After!

Wow wow WOW, you all linked up so many AWESOME projects at the Before and After Party last month . I was seriously so inspired. It’s time fo...

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