Off With Their Heads!

Call me crazy.  But I need a head.  I have my own, but I want one on the wall.  (And I don't mean a weird shrunken head, I'm not that crazy.)  I mean an animal head bust, but I don't hunt.  I've been looking at some "animal friendly" busts.  I say animal friendly, because they're not real heads, they're either made out of paper mache, wood, or stuffing!  Either way, they're cool and I want one.<br/><br/>This carved moose head looks pretty realistic, and it would look awesome over our sofa.  It might be heavy though, so I'm not sure wood would be the best option over the sofa after all - I don't want it landing on <em>MY</em> head...<br/><br/><a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/wood-moose-head1.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-555" height="244" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/wood-moose-head1-300x244.jpg" title="wood moose head" width="300" /></a><br/><br/>I like these white busts.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/animal_heads.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-550" height="200" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/animal_heads-300x200.jpg" title="animal_heads" width="300" /></a><br/><br/>Dream Book Design mounted the head in a frame.  Which looks awesome, and they can change the fabric backing whenever the mood strikes! <a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/framed-bust.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-551" height="300" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/framed-bust-225x300.jpg" title="framed bust" width="225" /></a><br/><br/>And I do like these furry options, however, they're over $300, so these made the post purely as part of my daydream: <a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/furry-moose-head.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-552" height="236" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/furry-moose-head-300x236.jpg" title="furry moose head" width="300" /></a><a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/fuzzy-buffalo-head.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-553" height="300" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/fuzzy-buffalo-head-218x300.jpg" title="fuzzy buffalo head" width="218" /></a><br/><br/>I might consider a grouping like the one below. <a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/paper-mache-busts.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-554" height="300" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/paper-mache-busts-300x300.jpg" title="paper mache busts" width="300" /></a><br/><br/>I'm not sure where I'm going to get a head or three. There are plenty of blog tutorials showing us how to make a paper mache head bust, but I'm not so sure about that.  I once made fruit out of paper mache, and let's just say it didn't look much like fruit when I was done, more like shrunken heads.  Paper mache animal bust might be a little too ambitious for me!<br/><br/>Guess I'm going to keep my eyes open.  Would it be weird to ask for a head for Christmas?<br/><br/> 

Off With Their Heads!

Call me crazy.  But I need a head.  I have my own, but I want one on the wall.  (And I don't mean a weird shrunken head, I'm not tha...

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Cowboy Style

[caption id="attachment_546" align="aligncenter" width="225"]<a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo1.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-546" height="300" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo1-225x300.jpg" title="photo" width="225" /></a> Wellington Garden Boots[/caption]<br/><p style="text-align: center;">For those of you who garden, why not do it cowboy-style!!!</p><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> 

Cowboy Style

[caption id="attachment_546" align="aligncenter" width="225"] Wellington Garden Boots[/caption] For those of ...

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Furniture Arrangement

Since we're having our new fireplace/stove installed in a couple of weeks (YAY), I've had to re-think the way my living room is arranged.  (Big groan from Big A).  I move the furniture around on a monthly, if not weekly, basis.  A fireplace taking up one whole corner of the living room is going to limit my furniture re-arranging ability to an extent.   And I have to steel myself to the fact that whatever I come up with may be one of only a couple of ways I can arrange the furniture.  Although I'll be missing out on many a rainy afternoon throwing my back out and stubbing my toe, I remind myself, I will have a new fireplace to cozy up to, and I'm REALLY excited about that!<br/><br/>When arranging any room the first thing you have to think about is the <em><strong>function</strong></em> of that room.  When we built our home, we decided we wanted a home where the kitchen, dining room and living room, were all somewhat open to one another.  We have a large family and want to be together for functions, rather than in separate rooms.  SO, the function of our living room is mostly for tv and chilling out (as the l'il man loves to say), but also for entertaining, and eating on laps (depending on the event).<br/><br/>For us, we have two sofas, and a large chair with ottoman, several tables/coffee table.  The two sofas face one another with the coffee table between.  The large chair/ottoman faces the tv (and will be next to the fireplace).   The fireplace and the tv will be at either end of the room. This works for us for having people over, or for movie night/relaxing by the fire.<br/><br/>Next, speaking of tv, we had to figure out our <em><strong>focal point</strong></em>.  <em>I KNOW, I KNOW</em>, you should not make the tv your focal point.  But realistically, we have 5 kids, and we watch a lot of Netflix.  When Big A is home in the evening, we want to relax and watch our DVR'd shows.  The tv, unfortunately, has to be a focal point.  We also have a huge picture window which looks out to the back yard with a view of the bird feeder and the woods.  That also competes to be a (classier) focal point.  <em>AND</em>, now with the new fireplace, well, that has to be a focal point too.<br/><br/>I know lots of us have lots of awkwardly shaped rooms, and the only way to get it right is by moving it around and finding what works the best.  There are no rules.  For example, you don't have to have a sofa.   You can have four large chairs around a coffee table, or two large chairs and a sofa.  And the furniture does not have to be stuck to the wall, it can be pulled out, or arranged on the diagonal.  If you do have open plan rooms, use area rugs to create a natural area for a grouping of furniture.<br/><br/>This is my parents living room, which has a large picture window, a tv and a fireplace.  Their tv is not a focal point of the room, because it's generally only my Dad who watches tv in there - here he is, in disguise and looking like something from "Weekend at Bernies" - in his big chair (facing the tv).  The other sofas face the fireplace, and the picture window, which are their main focal points.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_0185.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" height="199" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_0185-300x199.jpg" title="DSC_0185" width="300" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_0188.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" height="199" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_0188-300x199.jpg" title="DSC_0188" width="300" /></a>The last thing you need to think about when arranging any room is the <strong><em>flow</em> </strong>of traffic through that room.  The stairway to the upstairs is in our living room.  Furthermore, the hall "divides" the living room and dining room, and allows us to go from the kitchen to the master bedroom, to the basement, to my office, etc.  Obviously, there needs to be a somewhat clear path to allow for us to move about freely.  (I'm clumsy enough trying to walk around without bumping into things as it is!).<br/><br/>How is your living room arranged?  Do you like to move furniture around as much as I do?  C'mon, admit it!<br/><br/> 

Furniture Arrangement

Since we're having our new fireplace/stove installed in a couple of weeks (YAY), I've had to re-think the way my living room is arra...

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Beautiful family rooms

<p>Hello all! Hope you had a fantastic week and have an even better weekend planned. I’m looking forward to some time with some girlfriends and perhaps some pumpkin picking? The weather is supposed to be fabulous. </p> <p>Why do I always talk about the weather? I don’t know. It’s my thing. </p> <p>Anyway, today I had to show off some of the LOVELY family room spaces you all linked up last month at the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/08/show-us-your-family-spaces.html">August Show Us Your House</a> party. I looove family rooms. <strong>LOVE.</strong> them. It’s all about cozy and comfy for me and I so enjoyed looking through these spaces. </p> <p>Let’s kick it off with KariAnne’s <a href="http://www.thistlewoodfarms.com/can-i-ask-you-a-question">spectacular DIY chalk board</a> made from an old window: </p> <p><img alt="chalkboard from old window" height="728" src="http://www.thistlewoodfarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Railroad_Sign_Chalkboard.jpg" title="Railroad_Sign_Chalkboard" width="525" /></p> <p>Isn’t that amazing? SO cool. And you’ll just die when you see what they did with extra panes from the window. Brilliant. Doing it. Someday. </p> <p>I love the warm stone around <a href="http://www.viewalongtheway.com/2011/09/roomspiration-living-room-party-link-up-here/">Kelly’s fireplace</a>, mixed with the bold striped drapes: </p> <p><img alt="striped drapes" height="350" src="http://www.viewalongtheway.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/IMG_8048.jpg" title="IMG_8048" width="526" /></p> <p></p> <p>When I saw the close up shot of her mantel, I thought it was an inspiration shot from a magazine, no lie. </p> <p>OK, I am <em>drooling</em> over Sita’s beautiful white molding wall <a href="http://thefamilyroomdesign.blogspot.com/2012/07/my-new-home-tour-family-room.html">in her family room</a>: </p> <p><img alt="white paneled wall molding" border="0" height="356" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LFYt087qjag/T_ZXY6ptw5I/AAAAAAAACmI/rEmQQmA1iz4/s640/blog+3-1+copy.jpg" title="white paneled wall molding" width="525" /></p> <p>Her pillows and fireplace and sofas and rug and lamps don’t hurt anything either. ;)</p> <p>I’m digging the mid-century modern feel of <a href="http://www.mrsintraining.com/2012/04/great-room-is-done.html">Kelly’s family room</a>: </p> <p><img alt="gray and yellow family room" border="0" height="352" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ArFC99umHQ/T4gsjztT6oI/AAAAAAAAJ0c/jDrSCw-V1eA/s640/IMG_6363.JPG" title="gray and yellow family room" width="525" /></p> <p>I am drawn to this look for our basement – love it. All of the white accessories in the shelves make a beautiful statement too. </p> <p>I think I’ve shown you Kelly’s (yes, that would be three Kelly’s this time. Kelly’s must just have pretty family rooms in general.) space before, but for some reason I don't remember <a href="http://eclecticallyvintage.com/2012/05/family-room-tour-breakfast-nook/">this gorgeous console</a>: </p> <p><img alt="red console" height="405" src="http://eclecticallyvintage.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/P1070337.jpg" title="Eclectically Vintage Family Room" width="525" /></p> <p>Oh my, that is just a fantastic piece. I love looking at her space – SO many cool touches in this room. </p> <p><a href="http://sophiasdecor.blogspot.com/2012/01/cozy-rustic-fireplace.html">Kristen’s mantel</a> full of candles shows the power of simple pieces in numbers:</p> <p><img alt="rustic fireplace" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EmI8448CMjM/Txmnp-V7rbI/AAAAAAAABp4/rrJ8Vqz7BOU/s640/fireplace+without+candles+lit.jpg" title="rustic fireplace" width="418" /></p> <p></p> <p>Don’t you just want to curl up on one of those chairs with a throw in front of the fire? Kristen, we’ll be right over. ;)</p> <p>I really loved all of the COLOR I saw all over the place, and I was especially swooning over Erin’s ottoman in her family room: </p> <p><img alt="colorful ottoman" border="0" height="395" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gJ4mf-THzt0/UDU-AtEGFjI/AAAAAAAAKvI/Cbbcpy1ntt0/s1600/family_room_open_kitchen.jpg" title="colorful ottoman" width="525" /></p> <p></p> <p>I LOVE that print. What a great statement – check out the whole space <a href="http://www.twostorycottage.com/2012/08/adding-sofa-table-to-mix-family-room.html">here</a>! </p> <p>As always it was hard for me to pick just a few rooms to highlight. I love this series and getting a chance to peek into your homes!!</p> <p>Have a GREAT weekend and stay safe! See ya Monday! </p>

Beautiful family rooms

Hello all! Hope you had a fantastic week and have an even better weekend planned. I’m looking forward to some time with some girlfriends and...

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Mini pumpkins three ways (fall linky!)

<p>Well HEY! I’m back to finish up our series of fall linkies – this time we’re sharing easy, inexpensive, quick fall decor ideas here at TDC!:</p> <p><img alt="fall linky parties" border="0" height="315" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-89j6n6T-aoc/UC5D4gbcy8I/AAAAAAAAWdU/-YdCqqJLmds/Fall_Link_Party_Badge_2012_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="fall linky parties" width="450" /></p> <p>I’ve already shared a few of my simple fall decorating projects this year – the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-pumpkin-wreath-on-patio.html">pumpkin wreath</a> took less than 30 minutes because I just stuck everything in and called it done: </p> <p><img alt="pumpkin wreath" border="0" height="540" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AZyPs0JOnG8/UFtaA8GMswI/AAAAAAAAXSg/RqgGy7GNjQs/IMG_2906_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="pumpkin wreath" width="360" /></p> <p>And even making the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/09/fall-tablescape-idea.html">new wood trough for fall goodies</a> in the family room was quick: </p> <p><img alt="fall decorating ideas" border="0" height="319" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wVH0WULbDek/UFiom9Jz52I/AAAAAAAAXNs/l4D3_uWL2tg/IMG_2860_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="fall decorating ideas" width="500" /></p> <p>This time we’re going SUPER easy. And we’re using little bitty pumpkins. </p> <p>Simple? Check. </p> <p>Quick? Check. </p> <p><em>Cauuute?</em> Check. :)</p> <p>These ideas are not earth-shattering, but they are not hard to incorporate into your own home. That’s the goal here. :)</p> <p>I already kind of showed you this idea on the patio last week, but it’s worth showing again. Take any kind of vessel – a bowl, a basket…a pedestal even. And pile in some pumpkins (OK, gourds too): </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SFa-1AtlPWs/UGSBsKvn_aI/AAAAAAAAXeo/sVPKjnTOfKI/s1600-h/IMG_3066%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img alt="decorating with pumpkins" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-R9wghCS7ARo/UGSBsVkdwNI/AAAAAAAAXew/xq7NjBtjTAk/IMG_3066_thumb%25255B10%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="decorating with pumpkins" width="450" /></a></p> <p>You can add some extras like leaves or beady things too, but I’m drawn to the simple look of these as they are. And I LOVE the combo of the wood next to the pumpkins! </p> <p>Simple idea No. 2 – I took a glass container and a big candle and filled in the sides with the itty bitty pumpkins: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CohNoZd4CXU/UGSBtoUAYsI/AAAAAAAAXe4/Saea6XvNh7E/s1600-h/IMG_3081%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="easy fall decor" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oBNUGq5eMHg/UGSBuSIbXYI/AAAAAAAAXfA/9Oq_pZePq5M/IMG_3081_thumb%25255B4%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="easy fall decor" width="331" /></a></p> <p>Of course light the candle at your own discretion. I would not, just because it would stress me out a bit. ;) But it took about two minutes to throw together.</p> <p>Recently I saw an idea in a magazine where they filled the vessel with water and added flowers to the top, instead of the candle inside. LOVE that idea too. </p> <p>Speaking of magazines – the inspiration for this one was taken right off the cover of the latest BHG mag:</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CkD4N4oSJpI/UGSBu_CERVI/AAAAAAAAXfI/gm0oKlFe5Ok/s1600-h/IMG_3089%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="decorating with pumpkins" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-c9K53-qpZZ0/UGSBvNcMITI/AAAAAAAAXfQ/oUuM0lnJlzo/IMG_3089_thumb%25255B5%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="decorating with pumpkins" width="344" /></a></p> <p>I used a former brass clock (Goodwill find) and turned it into a cloche. (I showed you how <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2010/08/before-and-after-party-clock-turned.html">here</a>.) I just laid some fluffy moss inside and piled a couple pumpkins on top. I love the contrast of the deep green and the orange of the pumpkins!</p> <p>I loved the simple version, but had to go just a big bigger – my cheese plate dome-turned-cloche was big enough to hold even more of the cutie pumpkins: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AqXVIUIH7rk/UGSBv5IPovI/AAAAAAAAXfY/zBmXc1zEFbM/s1600-h/IMG_3093%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="decorating with pumpkins" border="0" height="675" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yCNmAI5eu7k/UGSBxXGsfFI/AAAAAAAAXfg/1eXDwpcLIU0/IMG_3093_thumb%25255B5%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="decorating with pumpkins" width="450" /></a></p> <p>I added some more of the moss around the edge of the cloche and l LOVE this one even more! Too cute! </p> <p>Now I want to see your ideas!! Like always, I appreciate a link back to this post or my blog and you can use this button and code to do so: </p> <div style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px"><img alt="Fall Party" src="http://i916.photobucket.com/albums/ad2/bethcrabtree/Fall_Link_Party_Sarah.jpg" title="Home Stories A2Z" /></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.com/" title="Fall Party" target="_blank"><img src="http://i916.photobucket.com/albums/ad2/bethcrabtree/Fall_Link_Party_Sarah.jpg" alt="Fall Party" style="border:none;" /></a></div></pre><br /><br /><p>Now let’s see your projects! : </p><br /><!-- start InLinkz script --><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=196305"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

Mini pumpkins three ways (fall linky!)

Well HEY! I’m back to finish up our series of fall linkies – this time we’re sharing easy, inexpensive, quick fall decor ideas here at TDC!:...

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Decorating the mantel for fall

<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TFt8mHncau0/UGIXPqB4MXI/AAAAAAAAXao/W4ylBIIhgNg/s1600-h/IMG_2975%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="494" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RM6hveEEyDM/UGIXQeEaYuI/AAAAAAAAXaw/41K7JR-5ozk/IMG_2975_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="320" /></a></p> <p>Hello all! How are you this fine fall day? Sorry this post is later than usual – I was sidetracked by a quick (if two hours there and two back can be considered quick) trip to IKEA. WHOO!</p> <p>I’m back today with our fall mantel and will be linking up over at <a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2012/09/autumn-mantels-link-party/">Kate’s shindig</a>: </p> <p><img alt="fall linky parties" border="0" height="315" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-89j6n6T-aoc/UC5D4gbcy8I/AAAAAAAAWdU/-YdCqqJLmds/Fall_Link_Party_Badge_2012_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="fall linky parties" width="450" /></p> <p>Since our <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/11/fireplace-redo.html">new, big mantel</a> is still new to me, I wasn’t sure what I was going to do with it this fall. I knew I wanted something tall in an old vase I found <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/08/vintage-treasures.html">antiquing last year</a> and that was about it. </p> <p>The starting point found me this past weekend when a friend and I visited a fall festival at one of our favorite shops. My local blog friend <a href="http://www.unexpectedelegance.com/">Angela</a> was there and I found these ahhhhmazing floofy things in her shop: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-553T0ZZe9bo/UGIXQwJ3-lI/AAAAAAAAXa4/m0pjvhWkgQk/s1600-h/IMG_2983%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GiwcXu7RB_E/UGIXR3-ZMcI/AAAAAAAAXbA/vHjAC-2mkxs/IMG_2983_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="450" /></a></p> <p>We don’t know what they are, but they scream fall to me. They are SO. COOL. Fluffy and soft and long and lovely. I put them in the vase at one end of the mantel, then started playing with colors, heights and textures as I went across: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AXfYuPnkAUo/UGIXSrOR7aI/AAAAAAAAXbI/4b6k7JEvFrc/s1600-h/IMG_2976%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FbxAdFLmw44/UGIXTK6woaI/AAAAAAAAXbQ/5vsJZuA118U/IMG_2976_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="325" /></a></p> <p>The wood frame was from Target (filled with a pic of the Bub from last Halloween – fitting I thought) and the copper pumpkin was a find in the dollar spot a few weeks ago as well. The deep metallic tone was just the pop I needed! </p> <p>I loved the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-pumpkin-wreath-on-patio.html">pumpkin wreath</a> I made for the patio so much I ended up bringing it in. I have something in mind that’s a tad more neutral for this spot though so this one may go back out soon: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Dq6cNTvLP6c/UGIXTxvhJEI/AAAAAAAAXbY/vjNv3QZpLK0/s1600-h/IMG_2973%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="457" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ek_xcIF3tJo/UGIXUfPDehI/AAAAAAAAXbg/_BCTUYkjwhI/IMG_2973_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="320" /></a></p> <p>I just hung it from a piece of burlap (that’s hot glued to the top of the frame). </p> <p>I was at a BFF’s house the other day, lamenting that I have NO driftwood to decorate with. What kind of decor blogger <em>doesn't</em> have driftwood I ask?? </p> <p>Me. </p> <p>Until she was all, OH, I have a pile of it from our trip to the lake! Huh? Do I even <em>know</em> her anymore? How was I not aware of her plethora of driftwood? </p> <p>I used some of it in the middle of the mantel because I ask you…what says fall more than driftwood from the beach?: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-X3K5McFiJOE/UGIXU4hGaGI/AAAAAAAAXbo/z-kiqmcq1pY/s1600-h/IMG_2979%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c2k4znDxydQ/UGIXVl2hAxI/AAAAAAAAXbw/2VgRbd0VYgs/IMG_2979_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="450" /></a></p> <p>;) </p> <p>I’m pretty excited about the next part people. I found some hydrangeas at Trader Joe’s last fall that I fell in LOVE with – and low and behold, the hydrangeas on my pretty Pee Gee trees in the back turn into those exact ones! The colors are fantastic: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qjojMEqIA3g/UGIXWDM8glI/AAAAAAAAXb4/SQ53C8pFc-4/s1600-h/IMG_2990%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_T-9M0SXdB0/UGIXWs7X8aI/AAAAAAAAXcA/paxnRAvc2kQ/IMG_2990_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="320" /></a></p> <p>I can finally say…I got those beautiful flowers from <em>my yard</em>. Awesome. :) </p> <p>The candlesticks were Goodwill finds I used in my <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/12/metallic-christmas-table.html">Christmas centerpiece</a> last year. I just spray painted them a copper color to tie in with the little pumpkin on the other side. And I finished it off with a big rattan pumpkin I’ve had for years, I think I got it from Target?: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sr-a7NiUFqQ/UGIXXAUd42I/AAAAAAAAXcI/rlAPro9_kJ8/s1600-h/IMG_2968%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="540" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zd5otVNm_Q0/UGIXXs2lctI/AAAAAAAAXcQ/BVB1SUex6Mg/IMG_2968_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="360" /></a></p> <p>I adore all of these colors – I mean. <strong>LOVE.</strong> </p> <p>The greens, creams, oranges and touches of metallic – they are what fall is all about around here: <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-k7LTN3zE5Y0/UGIXYI6ULgI/AAAAAAAAXcY/YMLFF6VJlmg/s1600-h/IMG_3043%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="380" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fHPbzncUA8Y/UGIXYwxvaCI/AAAAAAAAXcg/2kfFKb7l5MU/IMG_3043_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="550" /></a> </p> <p>I took some of these pics  yesterday on a sunny day, and some today when it was dark and chilly. (My favorite.) Perfect excuse to get a fire going: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IwSuhl1jHzo/UGIXaFNbTkI/AAAAAAAAXco/0MIxMtix22k/s1600-h/IMG_3037%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="600" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kI-zvgXA6L8/UGIXasVg8cI/AAAAAAAAXcw/gofRUKeuj_M/IMG_3037_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="400" /></a></p> <p>I love how everything works with my <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/09/diy-wood-art-another-pb-knock-off.html">wood art</a> I showed you last week: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ALkSq8q06G4/UGIXa15AnQI/AAAAAAAAXc4/iT2NKnXmSL8/s1600-h/IMG_3016%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="540" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-l_4QFvQ77c0/UGIXbgWEpwI/AAAAAAAAXdA/-H90bZZctko/IMG_3016_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="360" /></a></p> <p>This is not the time of year when less is more for me…that comes in January and February. :) Now I crave warm colors and a cozy feel in our rooms, and our family room feels <strong>so</strong> cozy to me right now. </p> <p>Like a fall hug. </p> <p>Awwww, gosh. </p> <p>Even the dog likes it: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-o0aN4ETUb-4/UGIXccOuTfI/AAAAAAAAXdI/yDq1Y4LlQ3E/s1600-h/IMG_3045%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fall mantel decorating" border="0" height="635" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sqqAlfRybEU/UGIXc7mh3dI/AAAAAAAAXdQ/eOCzRY7DKeE/IMG_3045_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="fall mantel decorating" width="450" /></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>But he likes pretty much everything. :) </p> <p>I can’t wait to see all the beautiful fireplaces and vignettes over at Kate’s! And don’t forget to come back and link up on Thursday when I host our last party – it’s all about easy, simple ways to add fall touches to your home. Anything goes! As long as it’s simple and easy. Or fall themed. Whatever. </p>

Decorating the mantel for fall

Hello all! How are you this fine fall day? Sorry this post is later than usual – I was sidetracked by a quick (if two hours there and two ...

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We have Gas!

When we built our home, either a wood burning stove or a gas stove were on our list of "want to have", but not on "need to have".  We wanted to include some sort of fireplace when we built our modular home. However, we decided to leave certain inclusions until a later date, because we didn't want them included in our mortgage payment. One year later, and with, <em>dare I say it,</em> winter approaching, we decided to finally look into having one or the other installed.<br/><br/><img alt="" height="484" src="http://allbasicsstoves.com/images/products/detail/hampton_h27brownxl.1.gif" width="450" /><br/><br/>We made a decision on that guy.  It's a medium size and will be installed in the corner of our living room on a pretty stone pad.  We decided to go with gas, rather than wood burning for a couple of reasons.  First and foremost, although we <em>LOVE</em> the smell and sounds of a real fire (who doesn't?) we don't love cutting up wood, lugging it in the house, or the risk of fire.  We have 3 kids still at home, a dog, a cat, and, let's be honest, we have this guy:<br/><br/><a href="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_0196.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-532" height="199" src="http://www.fyimodularhomes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_0196-300x199.jpg" title="DSC_0196" width="300" /></a><br/><br/>Mr. Perfect, the 4 year old, isn't steady on his feet all the time, especially when he's flying around the living room at 60 mph, and because he frequently spends time upside down, climbing walls, and has an uncanny knack for mischief...  Even though the gas stove will be hot, at least it won't be spitting red hot embers.<br/><br/>Another reason we chose the gas fireplace is because when it's 10 below, which it will be soon, gas stoves heat up quickly, and at the flick of a switch.  Gas will heat our open plan downstairs much more efficiently than wood.  As an alternate heat source, the gas stoves are backed up by battery, so if we lose power (a given), we will at least have some heat.<br/><br/>There you have it!  Decision made, soon we will have gas (even more than usual!).  And the installer is coming in 10 days!  I can't wait to have pictures of our new gas stove installed, and me all warm and cozy next to it!

We have Gas!

When we built our home, either a wood burning stove or a gas stove were on our list of "want to have", but not on "need to ha...

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Show us your basements (fun spaces)

<p>Well hello there! I’m back on this beautiful (chilly!) Monday with another Show Us Your House link up! This time we’re sharing basements, playrooms and rec rooms. (Does anyone call them rec rooms anymore? How old am I?)</p> <p><img alt="show us your house " border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1xQWIE22J8w/T4t8ib9ifUI/AAAAAAAAUIs/XmU1xziGHtM/image_thumb%25255B20%25255D.png?imgmax=800" title="show us your house " width="260" /></p> <p>As many of you know, we <em>finally</em> finished our basement this year. I say finally because we’ve lived her for 8.5 years and every four months or so of the past five we’ve said, “<strong>now</strong> we’re going to finish it!” And never did. :)</p> <p>I thought it would be fun to show you some <em>before</em>, before pics of the basement, back when it was truly storage and a DUMP, and then show it now. Just because before and afters are my favorite. :)</p> <p>I’ll start with the <strong>grody </strong>stairs: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AhTFlZBBzW0/UGBm9jI2guI/AAAAAAAAXXk/errjMabGpic/s1600-h/9-7-08%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OMvpSKesEyY/UGBm-G15gVI/AAAAAAAAXXs/oPXk6oGwNc8/9-7-08_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="" width="320" /></a></p> <p>When we decided to start using the space (years ago), even while it was unfinished, my first goal was to make those steps safe for my boy, who was just a wee one back then. We had cheap carpet installed and a I painted the walls, which helped a ton. </p> <p>But now it’s even prettier with new (nice) carpet, new paint and light. Oh and <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-wood-planked-wall.html">a wood wall</a>: </p> <p><img alt="DIY wood planked wall dark stain" border="0" height="593" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-E2N0s-BLQ24/UDuYnSp7PwI/AAAAAAAAWp8/3QmFthWNnlA/IMG_2574_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="DIY wood planked wall dark stain" width="400" /> </p> <p>Like I said, for years the basement was purely storage. Storage for the <em>insane amount of crap</em> I didn’t need: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rh82yPZOPok/UGBm-pYVnEI/AAAAAAAAXX0/lZlxGO_U1Pg/s1600-h/before1%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UMJUlWt1ToA/UGBm_KQbfVI/AAAAAAAAXX8/_XYsGZloMbE/before1_thumb%25255B3%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="" width="300" /></a> </p> <p>I organized that area and made it into <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2010/03/my-craft-room.html">my craft room</a>: </p> <p><img alt="messy basement" border="0" height="301" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_vswDWGRlsPw/S5SEWi-gcCI/AAAAAAAAHVk/Z-pKBVg88wE/046_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="messy basement" width="400" /></p> <p>But you can tell by that pic that it rarely stayed organized. I had a STUFF problem. :) </p> <p>Now, that spot looks like this: </p> <p><img alt="Mohawk carpet honored tradition" border="0" height="480" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fnSjBW4SU9I/UA9slEELhiI/AAAAAAAAWJ0/umfgjjbEPrg/IMG_2304_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="Mohawk carpet honored tradition" width="339" /></p> <p><em>Hallloooo</em>…so. much. better! </p> <p>Here’s where the real scariness began:</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pVBz7pFhQC4/UGBm_o9MuKI/AAAAAAAAXYE/eSgvvS5j2n0/s1600-h/before2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eH1m2lWNeU0/UGBnALeDASI/AAAAAAAAXYM/gMixtP0fHes/before2_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="" width="400" /></a></p> <p>Told you. :)</p> <p>And here is that same area now:</p> <p><img alt="basement carpet " border="0" height="480" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EZHWUAgCCes/UA9sl8sCrzI/AAAAAAAAWKE/e3u1WBXvL6I/IMG_2308_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="basement carpet " width="372" /> </p> <p>It actually looks even better now, cause we got furniture! WHOO! It’s made a HUGE difference down there. Can’t wait to show you. </p> <p>And the amazing amount of stuff continued around the corner: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mShNhz_txCY/UGBnAkP3DeI/AAAAAAAAXYU/p0UTy3qB5cU/s1600-h/before3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4hZdVI4zyM4/UGBnBFFle3I/AAAAAAAAXYc/EPuOyu8PE8g/before3_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="" width="400" /></a></p> <p>I have to tell you – I have gotten rid of an INSANE amount of clutter over this process. It has been a true eye-opening experience for me. For years I would purge the basement, and then it would become a pit of despair again…and I would do it all over. It made me aware of just how much stuff I don’t need – I don’t miss much of it. If any. </p> <p>Now that spot looks like this: </p> <p><img alt="basement blue gray walls" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bZEzue2ZNWk/UA9snN8QaXI/AAAAAAAAWKk/DVCYDOq7VcY/IMG_2315_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="basement blue gray walls" width="450" /></p> <p>Well, it did a few weeks ago. I’ll show you the new furniture soon. :)</p> <p>Here’s another before shot looking back into the space: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Og2yjUb0XFk/UGBnByr6T6I/AAAAAAAAXYk/WlouslmusTw/s1600-h/before6%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-I5xM5U3zMS0/UGBnCN_pyDI/AAAAAAAAXYs/gOCfFcTwEt8/before6_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="" width="400" /></a></p> <p>And here it is when it was finished: </p> <img alt="Mohawk carpet honored tradition" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cRgxh-mK8Ws/UA9sn3K5dZI/AAAAAAAAWK0/PfwDMQhlubw/IMG_2313_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" title="Mohawk carpet honored tradition" width="450" /> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>(Can you find the little photo bomber?) </p> <p>I say “finished” lightly – still so many things to do. The bathroom is still only about a third done. I’m getting anxious to get that moving – I’d love to have it done for the winter movie nights we plan to have down here. :)</p> <p>We LOVE this space and I have so many plans for decorating it! I’m trying to force myself to get the bathroom done before I start on more fun stuff. :)</p> <p>You can see more of our basement over the years and the finishing process <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/search/label/basement">here</a>. And you can see more of our loft, (including the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/05/closet-turned-book-nook.html">book nook</a>!) which used to be the playroom, <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/search/label/playroom%2Floft">here</a>.</p> <p>Now let’s see yours! I love spaces like this – playrooms and basements are my <strong>FAVORITE</strong>. I have lots of favorites. :)</p> <p>I’d appreciate a link back, especially if you’d like to be considered for the highlight post: </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px" align="center"><img alt="Show Us Your House" src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/image34.png" title="Show Us Your House" /></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://thriftydecorchick.com/" title="Show Us Your House" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/image34.png" alt="Thrifty Decor Chick" style="border:none;" /></a></div></pre><br /><br /><p>Here you go! Can’t wait to see your spaces! (And meet me back here tomorrow to see my fall mantel!) </p><br /><!-- start InLinkz script --><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=195274"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

Show us your basements (fun spaces)

Well hello there! I’m back on this beautiful (chilly!) Monday with another Show Us Your House link up! This time we’re sharing basements, pl...

Read more »