DIY stencil (fail and save!)

<p>Hello all! I hope your weekend was a great one! Ours was jam packed – we did a ton of family stuff, I got to hang with friends quite a bit and we went to a couple Fourth festivities as well. It was one of those weekends that is exhausting but leaves you feeling so incredibly blessed. I am a lucky lady.</p> <p>So I didn’t have time to do much DIY this weekend but I did finish up a small project I started last week. This one started one way (a bit of a fail) and ended up another – I was determined to salvage it because I loved the look. </p> <p>It all began when I found this platter at Target a few weeks back: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8G0O0jpCWO_MofvpMuuXDdJdGTXklZMBUrLcayGL7FP8IUcePdlwQsdrLyL9R7_bzjZVZFggBH7zv5_Gh40mgxq5aXLtrdkGPLGPtQw3VXSibWpjED3C5g2THPlOw0cYE-MZl9uoMVI/s1600-h/unnamed%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="arrow platter" border="0" height="660" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJtBFoyG-MxVJU-ikIuukyxxwEwa56ay6cck1TsVwFC_UUTksLCm6jsET4qq6gJpp9aHWUJdFYZ19vxJNHEvNPa2sS6Dnxvox8e420TrKTArjnS3KNuCPaeIchDCmum65UgUS2-qV2E3A/?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="arrow platter" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I think it was from the Nate Berkus line? I loved the arrow design in gold and knew I could recreate it for cheaper. It wasn’t too bad at $25 but my constant “Pushaw, I could TOTALLY do that for cheaper” usually wins out. And one day on a HomeGoods trip I found a large platter on clearance for $8 to try this myself – score!</p> <p>Then I got started making my DIY stencil. I used my trusty FrogTape® to do it – I cut a piece long enough to span the whole platter, then laid the tape down on a cutting board: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-GraFXe2A_-RM6GwJAg5_Krh5tP7gVyOSII5UMOVCOt8YCXKEfeF1rHUCFc28yYHK9RkeqXkTbd9LJpZHWyZUy82hU_nGtAeQSR7aQw3gcMvhjkP5FzDMasPT8LTz8ioVYxJZVTEpII/s1600-h/unnamed3%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="using painter's tape to make a stencil" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfcBCeCAYxRjAQkybLLWITtIz37WsswT_LLdEJlHnrmjPiQGUJ0dm1mhiJbzDr8YfhEHsqs1BxijF9GQGj1gtCURGvDm5WL-pKDh1rt014J-IGkwg8Ebef762hJSCCy0N0mBhGcSHOhM/?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="using painter's tape to make a stencil" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I just cut it freehand – this is not a time to be picky. There are times when I want something to look “perfect” but most times I like it to look a little more organic, so the different sizes and spacing didn’t bother me at all. </p> <p>It only took me about 15 minutes to cut them all out – it was actually quite soothing. :) Sometimes I love a detailed project like this, it calms me. </p> <p>After my “stencil” was done I laid it across the platter: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo98R6gCGXuWMjDVY4zaik1sI2gJD0p5Uom2dFtrJ9Pbxc8Ze50n0jn_fcP2utZYgOGZXf6SFFPj0FZHBNPJtlStd4IUVls4XMymTDW8zDNPVRzRPkNWhqkuuNDE3GQo1H32aFo4Ne4TI/s1600-h/unnamed2%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="stencil from painter's tape" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVlKPlLwbPbawHJLNyncanxIQNEisVza53po9xPFS0xlzmd3o4ogR9xo7I8uKQ-2nMvoXij2IAm_DVgi3Pux3YWeEbJ7RWnZWY3He9kg_N6sdox-F_c77PzNi6a_AHL9niNh4ih6mGBcE/?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="stencil from painter's tape" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It was going to look so good! </p> <p>And then I realized the paint I was using wasn’t going to work. It was way too thin and didn’t stick right at all – I was SO bummed. I mean, come on – it was going to look <strong>so</strong> similar to the other platter. And mine was even bigger! But…fail.</p> <p>I was about to scrap the whole thing but I realized I could use the arrow design somewhere else to add a little somethin.’ Arrows are HUGE right now, right? I was at a jewelry party yesterday and bought an arrow ring. I see them so much lately. </p> <p>Anyway, I have a little pen holder in my office that I thought would look cute with a little embellishment so I decided to try the stencil there: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYds9HKe3_0atc-zmWGzDwcnBMomNjBIsldcRyj0qjK2hVSmd3iWsZ6nlCaCZd08-nqe-lSKvzL5eX6NvPEyuQTU721nHCa1_NsjCqCEGJnenVFEjyQnw3TbhKfa0orwFER8z_1GIR5UI/s1600-h/IMG_9358%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DIY arrow stencil" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw2vxh9X80GAsupqgxDVWCEwNLOBdDwZU9B_2__fQokNvnbEXt97mgED84JNmrwkfnhOlkLIWiqsqNWD1N7CGrHGnuB1qRoYOYqA7Y08HGJe-kVQChOz_aIienYJcvLgHTRxIb2csIXi0/?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 arrow stencil" width="500" /></a> </p> <p>My arrows were spaced out so I had to tear the long strip of tape up and make them work closer together. </p> <p>I used gold Rub n Buff and it took no time at all to add a little bling: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOxnEc3KWYtZUT6g837nfSmAERCPnV7NRB-Bq3mTzqr3Gj4phnvBK60A-dWu5HK8ydhc1RxNFhyusHesMyJDlTCyOj00Knxyrq95rOJ9DHZBmT5tg8JTH8QB_aYqWiIxLev-hVAhz7G1Q/s1600-h/IMG_9370%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="gold arrow design" border="0" height="696" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn58VC2fsS3s7nQS3avf2FBBA4Uk71EqXlnC7bN2PA-26B5GzXaKgraI3RG3qssACNU9g04sGUA92viIOWZYv5aBSWG6N45_GzyGXtYgqyuMiRWT3vUzyPNQo6yI0ZHB3rWAHuGZLO-mY/?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 arrow design" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I only did every other panel because I didn’t want it to get too busy. I flipped the tape every other one so some go up, some down: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQE3YibR-CfFCzPxfRgDfaM1MVTmbXO1MFEZXAqk4UvJRLDmQ_vWHnBnE-LlvvBHo1H17C0xM49hCd5H2RVisC4FVGttQMq4TxXh_Z5e5OkdxYzRe765-p6yV61dXpTLT6ld9cspAPOQ/s1600-h/IMG_9360%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="arrow stencil design" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0bXa0xxN2qxR7KPmrn5jyhKik9xe5e7ZM1j7GMtKm2DIsiDJg1gzZWP9GUqzzmuaK-_aYkeHCv_GLmWIvQRW6dqJbPSnuY7cwLrklAN634rIFmJnfjFo3ryO_KAsdjjws7vFBiPSNm4/?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="arrow stencil design" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I love it! I have a few gold/brass accents in here so it ties in nicely. I didn’t realize till after I was done that it is the same look as my <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/11/chevron-take-two.html" target="_blank">FrogTape trash can</a> too: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvbOwmDbJUUdLa_K5yce_GBgsCdnklyxyHzXm2ejAfdd9MTCv_hLMZ2DRdul9-GRcma7FVsh95LML98u4G8UB3WYB4CNYDfgIAGkzFKwqUVRI4CjBnDSGnd2RjOIeIIE0qSsdzMamcDzU/s1600-h/IMG_9378%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="farmhouse table as desk" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5C7V2YqRILWgdkc15VFVpBCgfT28sGuD-eGSL4KeBHz2aKswFmVr560a5C4tjgCkZqQkss6TVrJahP2pVeJ5JfSbgG6B5-ZUH0j5MSE8hoWzm4hAQk5FaotRoS7ZgOMIWorJcvqCjwhM/?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 as desk" width="500" /></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>So there you go – quick and easy and free. I was determined to put my little arrows to use somewhere and I think this is a sweet little spot. I have to say I must have pulled that tape off of the surfaces at least ten times and it still stuck at the end and didn’t tear apart even with the delicate design. I was quite impressed. </p> <p>Have you incorporated the arrows in your home at all? Are they still trendy? Usually I get on the trends way after the fact but I’m thinking I’m still good on this one. ;) </p>

DIY stencil (fail and save!)

Hello all! I hope your weekend was a great one! Ours was jam packed – we did a ton of family stuff, I got to hang with friends quite a bit and we went to a couple Fourth festivities as well. It was one of those weekends that is exhausting but leaves you feeling so incredibly blessed. I am a lucky la…

Read more »

Merry Monday Linky Party #9

<div align="center" style="padding: 5px;"><img alt="Happy House and Home" src="http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab20/ErleneA/401cdad4-0c84-4db7-a6aa-34af413d80b7_zps23c665f6.png" title="Happy House and Home" /></div><pre style="background: none; border: none; padding: 0;"><textarea style="background: #f0f0f0; border: solid 1px #cccccc; color: #777777; display: block; font-size: 100%; height: 50px; margin: auto; padding: 7px 0 2px 5px; text-align: left; width: 90%;"><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://happyhouseandhome.blogspot.com/" title="Happy House and Home"><img src="http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab20/ErleneA/401cdad4-0c84-4db7-a6aa-34af413d80b7_zps23c665f6.png" alt="Happy House and Home" style="border:none;" /></a></div><br />

Welcome to the 9th Merry Monday Linky Party!

• Thank you to everyone that participated in last weeks Merry Monday Linky Party. We're on our way to 200 link ups! Whoohoo!
• Going forward, the Merry Monday Linky Party will be introducing a new guest host bi-monthly. This week we have Jenn from Ever After In The Woods and Rachel from Craving Some Creativity. Remember, each host picks their own features, so make sure you visit their blogs to see if you've been featured!
• All features will be pinned to the Merry Monday Linky Party Pinterest board, so follow along to see the top features of the party.

On to the Merry Monday Linky Party #9!

Meet the hosts of this party

*We would appreciate a follow in at least one of our social media platforms. Let us know you followed via Merry Monday so we can follow back!*

Host Erlene @My Pinterventures ~ Twitter Facebook Pinterest Google+ Instagram Bloglovin Stumbleupon Co-host Julia @Happy House and Home ~ Twitter Facebook Pinterest Google+ Bloglovin Co-host Treana @House of Bennetts ~ Twitter Facebook Pinterest Instagram Co-host Misty @The Lady Prefers 2 Save ~ Twitter Facebook Pinterest Google+ Instagram Youtube

On the Host's Blogs

My Pinterventures

Microwave Mochi ~ Baking Soda Sea Art ~ Hermosa Peak Yacon Syrup Review

Happy House and Home

Belly Blasting Smoothies ~ Shabby Chic Star

House of Bennetts

Last Minute Wedding Ideas ~ Wedding Ties ~ Maternity Photo Shoot

The Lady Prefers 2 Save

Reusing Wax Melts Tutorial ~ Camomile-Mint Astringent for $.05 ~ Easy Bake Oven Cake Mix for $.20

---

Meet Your Guest Co-host

If you're interested in being a featured co-hosts for the party, please sign up! We have opened up party spots in the month of August.

Ever After In The Woods

Guest Co-host Jenn @Ever After In The Woods ~ Twitter Facebook Pinterest Instagram

• Jenn blogs about things that inspire her. She loves good style, great DIY, easy recipes, and being a good mom to her children.

Craving Some Creativity

Guest co-host Rachel @Craving Some Creativity ~ Twitter Facebook Pinterest Google+ Bloglovin

• Rachel blogs about scrap booking, crafts, home DIY, and recipes. You will find tips, techniques, and, hopefully, some inspiration to tackle your own projects.

On the Guest Co-host's Blog

Ever After In The Woods

Tropical Pineapple Banana Coconut Bread ~ National Ice Cream Month with Nielsen-Massey Vanilla Ice Cream

Craving Some Creativity

Turn It Up Tuesday! ~ Pizza Battles - His vs Hers ~ Bolster Pillow Cover from a Pillowcase

---

---

Feature Posts

Most Clicked

Grilled Tilapia with Spicy Mango Pineapple Salsa @Vintage Zest

My Feature Pick

Michelle at Our Crafty Mom made this awesome Vertical Vase Holder using milk bottles. Isn't it gorgeous? And those peonies... So beautiful! 

*Don't forget to visit the other hosts to view their feature picks too.*

---

---

Features will be pinned to the Merry Monday Linky Party Board

Follow Erlene Amat | My Pinterventures's board Merry Monday Linky Party Features on Pinterest.

If you were featured, grab the Merry Monday Linky Party feature button and display it on your blog, feature page, or sidebar

<div align="center"><br /><a <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.50" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">href</span>="http://<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.51" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">happyhouseandhome</span>.<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.52" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">blogspot</span>.com/" title="Happy House and Home"><<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.53" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">img</span> <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.54" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">src</span>="http://i845.<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.55" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">photobucket</span>.com/albums/ab20/<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.56" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">ErleneA</span>/NewMerryMondayFeatureButton150_zpsbc5e0f2a.<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.57" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">png</span>" alt="Happy House and Home" style="border:none;" /></a></div><br />

Permalink back to the blog: http://wp.me/p3UxXD-1kV

 

---

Party Guidelines

 Link up to 3 family friendly posts that teach us crafts, DIY projects, recipes, a tip/trick (gardening, cooking, crafting, beauty, party planning, travel tip, etc...). Link parties and giveaways are also welcome.

• DO NOT link up posts you have linked to a previous party, personal shops (Etsy) or things you are selling, posts that do not teach us one of the items in the first guidelines - these links will be deleted.
• Linking your posts gives us permission to share your link up on your host/co-host's various social media platforms.
• By linking up, you give us permission to add your email to the Merry Monday Linky Party mailing list. You will receive an email once a week for this party only.
• If you do not wish to be added to the list, leave your email blank when linking up.
• DO NOT link up and run. Please visit at least two other fellow party link ups and comment/share.

 

---

Help Grow this party.

Grab our party button and place it on your sidebar, party page, or link post.

<div align="center"><br /><a <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.63" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">href</span>="http://<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.64" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">happyhouseandhome</span>.<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.65" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">blogspot</span>.com/" title="Happy House and Home"><<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.66" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">img</span> <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.67" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">src</span>="http://i845.<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.68" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">photobucket</span>.com/albums/ab20/<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.69" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">ErleneA</span>/401cdad4-0c84-4db7-a6aa-34af413d80b7_zps23c665f6.<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" id=":z.70" tabindex="-1" role="menuitem" aria-haspopup="true" style="background: yellow;">png</span>" alt="Happy House and Home" style="border:none;" /></a></div><br />

---

Time to link up!

If you're interested in being a featured co-hosts for the party, please sign up! We have opened up party spots in the month of August.

Sharing is caring! Tweet the party Tweet

***Your party hosts will be busy sharing your link ups on either Twitter, FB, Pinterest (some to several group boards), Stumbleupon, and Google+, so follow us and see how we're promoting your link ups. One or more of us will visit your blog and promote your link up on at least one of our social media platforms.***

An InLinkz Link-up

Merry Monday Linky Party #9

…

Read more »

Secret Ingredient Macaroni Salad

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSjXpb8J1GmjZpHdkMTxBNKU1jv7Jo78tn-b6IbgWQx6dNG0dhKfVLGEpXzQfYiERFWmREQ5WcWKdFIlg9VjeJhYC0seZEg6J6-EZrzP0hm8AXbhJ6HIE0yxBNQl4B1jsrxP8IL8DM3Q/s1600/mac+salad+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="macaroni salad, summer recipe" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSjXpb8J1GmjZpHdkMTxBNKU1jv7Jo78tn-b6IbgWQx6dNG0dhKfVLGEpXzQfYiERFWmREQ5WcWKdFIlg9VjeJhYC0seZEg6J6-EZrzP0hm8AXbhJ6HIE0yxBNQl4B1jsrxP8IL8DM3Q/s1600/mac+salad+3.jpg" title="" width="212" /></a></div><br />I know. Macaroni Salad. BUT, before you turn away, my macaroni salad is different! Why? Because it has a secret ingredient. Don't you love secret ingredients?<br /><br />I do because secret ingredients mean you have a unique recipe. And when you are making something as common as macaroni salad you <i>NEED </i>a secret ingredient.<br /><br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Speaking of unique... How do you find a rare rabbit? Unique up on it!) </span></i><br /><br /><b>Secret Ingredient Macaroni Salad</b><br />serves 10<br /><br />1 lb macaroni, cooked as per the package directions<br />1 medium carrot, grated<br />1 stalk celery, finely chopped<br />1/2 small red onion, finely chopped<br />3 hard boiled eggs, chopped<br />(start with) 1 cup <i>full fat</i> mayo<br />1 tsp salt (or to taste)<br />(start with) 1/4 cup SECRET INGRDIENT: Basil Pesto<br />1/2 tsp paprika<br />1 TBSP fresh basil leaves<br /><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVY4khOd-xBM8ydKL5K-de6QZIyvOlzBVUsfs_FC7Ecl44iR-CU0Dtqi1o7filrJWIp7o9TO1bHiUuu9UApX0zlxVwcWNPOvL8OYxo8JJU_wbb6_sVMiQP-BO1NbWRHTh9kJSNYn8BR4/s1600/mac+salad+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="macaroni salad, summer recipe" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVY4khOd-xBM8ydKL5K-de6QZIyvOlzBVUsfs_FC7Ecl44iR-CU0Dtqi1o7filrJWIp7o9TO1bHiUuu9UApX0zlxVwcWNPOvL8OYxo8JJU_wbb6_sVMiQP-BO1NbWRHTh9kJSNYn8BR4/s1600/mac+salad+1.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div><br /><i><br /></i>Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Run under cold water to cool, and drain <i>VERY </i>well.<br /><br />Hard boil the eggs. <i>(I put the eggs in a medium sauce pan and cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Immediately turn off the heat and allow the eggs to sit in the hot water for 15 minutes). </i>Put them in cold water until they're cool enough to peel and chop.<br /><br />Once the eggs and the macaroni are cool, mix all of the ingredients <i>except the basil and paprika, </i>in large bowl. According to your taste, add more mayo or pesto until the salad tastes the way you like it.<br /><br />Transfer to a large glass or ceramic bowl.<br /><br />Chiffonade the basil ~ <i>stack the basil leaves and roll into a "cigar" shape. Slice into ribbons with a sharp knife</i> ~ and sprinkle over the top of the salad.<br /><br />Next, sprinkle the top of the salad with paprika (it's just pretty).<br /><br />Refrigerate for two hours before serving.<br /><br />Try a couple of the following add-ins:<br /><br />1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon<br />1/2 cup chopped black olives<br />1/2 cup cooked peas<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_cfi_3IWaH08csNL2Ck3eY5Wb3siAxHJIOWT-u8Fc225fUNd1_0ISbykWpToEAaoFkYzZ7UfEcSJmjhmeFnJG6d5IX2YiAsVdDVqnBMNeCZEEY0mOa1Am1M62SzB8R4G-gBTFYOkncu8/s1600/mac+salad+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="macaroni salad, summer recipe" border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_cfi_3IWaH08csNL2Ck3eY5Wb3siAxHJIOWT-u8Fc225fUNd1_0ISbykWpToEAaoFkYzZ7UfEcSJmjhmeFnJG6d5IX2YiAsVdDVqnBMNeCZEEY0mOa1Am1M62SzB8R4G-gBTFYOkncu8/s1600/mac+salad+2.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><i>Note: I use full fat mayo, because I like the flavor better with the pesto.</i><br /><i><br /></i>What about you guys? Do you have a secret ingredient for your macaroni salad? Do tell ~ I'm happy to try them all out! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15.199999809265137px; line-height: 17.24799919128418px;"><i><span style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">Don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter! (Above) </span></b></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15.199999809265137px; line-height: 17.24799919128418px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15.199999809265137px; line-height: 17.24799919128418px; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: red;">If you would like to join in some fun link parties, </span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15.199999809265137px; line-height: 17.24799919128418px; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: red;">head on over <a href="http://happyhouseandhome.blogspot.com/p/where-to-party.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">HERE</a>!  </span></i><i><span style="color: red;">So much inspiration! </span></i></div><br />

Secret Ingredient Macaroni Salad

I know. Macaroni Salad. BUT, before you turn away, my macaroni salad is different! Why? Because it has a secret ingredient. Don't you love secret ingredients?I do because secret ingredients mean you have a unique recipe. And when you are making something as common as macaroni salad you NEED a secret…

Read more »

Dining room built ins

<p>Hello my friends! How are you? My sister-in-law and nephew have been here all week and this is our last day with them. I’m excited we have a sunny day (I think ALL day) to do something fun! </p> <p>In celebration of two anniversaries recently – ten years in our home and my blogging anniversary – I’ve been sharing the progress of some of the rooms in our home over the years. By the way, I totally forgot about my blogging anniversary when it hit – six years at the end of May. Whoot!! </p> <p>I ALWAYS struggled with our dining room. I don’t know why. Part of it was that shortly after we moved in I marched myself to the furniture store and bought a complete set of dining furniture. I liked it OK – but I wasn’t madly in love with it. I just wanted to fill the space. Now I know better and would wait it out, but you know how that goes.</p> <p>Long ago I added molding to the walls (with Liquid Nails! No.) and jazzed up the ceiling: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGqailOQ_TcOLYhhJ5OimbTJUkFgQM-1NO7SncCzVOdXyCl9UC7Y92na0Hg4UM2CXnJT3x7LFx2UOjdWFBueqcXHsSXGsbRatSCgkR-CDcb7KAV8TrDhpsOcSe_lObUKIVQUZ2Nh1QzG8/s1600-h/DSC02842%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXwwSCkLqt70-Ojywa4VoBHR3bhRbViF-U8qLXykDSmRD5lluX08yaB5DqRBz1GEtd6b5mMcyuEQdyOeR3PeeH_F9ZPKIoky69t0m90BgLKEqhOGLZoIrZLKK4iHxlgXHEpckQOmgDevg/?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="500" /></a></p> <p>I also recovered the seats of the chairs almost immediately to add some color to the room. It was very beige/brown. </p> <p>You’ll see here that this was my gold and red phase as well. Ah yes…</p> <p>I still wanted some more contrast so I <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2008/10/third-time-is-charm.html" target="_blank">changed up the drapes</a> and added a solid red to the bottom: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinew2WaIhk2rFfUJkYHRQUngq9XG4hjt0BpQAVzFSfhQgzxX6EAS9HJe5yz68SWQM4jLiO8VqoXimyWwksUbOZEGAfMbUJ_Vn_6i1gWvvXASMZUDMSwcTteeX8bsW9WgIpX_lcVflv66k/s1600-h/DSC05869%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="two tone drapes" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhweE2XXCS6Ngy1Vdo3A_kg9b_hdu4zt4U6WIhWzSQgBHh8u441l8OblJ-7FoDyMN1OQX7H2o62-73V3Qewx1O6cTUFt3O-4PVWwM1qGeCtQm9_Z0OpBG-OaeOpWVrts0YfrSkebc-iWqY/?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="two tone drapes" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Then things just got crazy and I painted <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2009/10/dining-room-reveal.html" target="_blank">the whole room</a> (the entire. room.) brown: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXxCFUEoLe2ILTOez5-E8_gTyBNBCBkAPSVSGrrckRV0LghK6U5TOc3VlWFf2aNJ1QXU2Myl0tnhrf3XatlTsIVCDbxJIEgwy63QlSfLvtVfm5WgJwemO3ZwjeVsjY4o0_Uko0bJtauE/s1600-h/011%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="brown dining room" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyFqam9MrCDF0oHfubpm8fG51yog9HhoPC1zpjbsPAlTrlzLL2EFWFmE4awGNU6il1vR2ARxQfzlV2EX8Tai1d5vW4dpMC0BpnfXof_6PN4_LFk2lrr2LgwRAKLOijCdJ3bPrnMhsjCPA/?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="brown dining room" width="500" /></a></p> <p>You know, looking back, I don’t hate it. It was dramatic and pretty – I say you can go dramatic in two rooms safely – the powder room and the dining room. Or all the rooms, it’s your house. </p> <p>I always struggled with the fact that this room opened up to our two story living room so I just added a piece of trim down the wall to separate them. Probably a major design crime but you know, I like to live on the edge. </p> <p>But the thing is…it was DARK. Shocking, I know!: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintylJT-b2b7ZvD6gePr4yZIYwo2iBBAk6wgkC3xVfE79f7kFhwyubbJAfMIAfygSMCnFHhsyBGxuG0PRdcU0ubUO3gySUwQDMztM-kWKAeOmQ1oSdr3KGFJ2ZUx22IpX73iIeRULHTTY/s1600-h/003%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="brown dining room" border="0" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRj3hUU63lu_rYdxQaZ6qShyphenhyphen6a7OOSa3FMyEeSheW7etJA53TLaRCERJJklJgB7VZPrJC3jevzU1qxXeCAeseLfLdEuXScPWVihbgYPWB7cKOvSqpNE_Uv62i_VzbLIc3-_RwrsYWgXw0/?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="brown dining room" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I didn’t mind it much till we had new floors put down after a water issue. Then it was positively cave-like. Dark on every surface in the room and I couldn’t take it anymore. </p> <p>A new idea formed in my head over time that I talked about <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/01/dining-room-turned.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I was tired of not using this space. I wanted to make it more functional and change up how we used it. </p> <p>So the DIY built ins began: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZPjmay7z4l_4Rp7Ekg56gkFxcZ7bc2fJSdTiO5ywXLHTsUcMtiuwU4gGzvIoMfcNoZwuhLT_mK6UrPovxGldGYISxjl26AYGjCoTf6Kl9rbEBiV9AyRnGy6fltsvUndqxyFwIGS1Ib0/s1600-h/IMG_1669%25255B3%25255D%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="how to build built ins " border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5kkr8mnfsr0cB9nTkN_VH1uuHCWPrEZIQ0j-kEG45OWh6trthAvZhLrteP21AJvzwslGjp3YBGqgSdklX-hdZViHIfu-XrLPb73TlUIEMnE162ONWtATofjhgNjLn0KpDE40FHMDFhdA/?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="how to build built ins " width="500" /></a></p> <p>You can see the synopsis of how my Dad and I built them <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/08/how-to-build-built-ins.html" target="_blank">here</a>. It wasn’t hard, just time consuming. It took me forever to get them finished – eight months total I believe. </p> <p>I had a design in my head all those months of thinking about it and a big part of that design was lights at the top of the bookcases. It took months to find something that was affordable but I finally found what I wanted in the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/10/library-lights-finally.html" target="_blank">outdoor section</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZTIeiZQLfsB2mUN38EMHCjTXJMQZXJwB62BeKGrunSmu63-J8hbXxRqoIsfYTS30ARTJCK5x8vtResZgXtISgRrm4vuHKxXOBIUxT_aPzjdW17LyOm6iij6lkehfjS36S_mEh6N5YQ_A/s1600-h/IMG_3360%25255B4%25255D%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="inexpensive library lights " border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCEwkyQ-yUJI31v5x1dQiVRs196C2ygadx62tIAHY5gAX-9H9vKVNcc4z_WTjSiP_6D3tFlgOawwVgX114MIOZ5BFqE3GnMU0LyWjYyhwbc2BA49TcwXYaqEKR-v1Ta_zkA5i2oEKDRs/?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="inexpensive library lights " width="320" /></a></p> <p>And now…I love it. This room is one of my favorites in our home. </p> <p>I could not be more pleased with how it turned out: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0sagqUNkG9l90KgvzlwdD8jw4JMzfc1sqBYwgy2v4kuqcv9XbV9uo13XzB8PLoKccSQIUl4t7QUCeHv2PiBWHdT21fD_XjgLhyiNM8Uqw1aVEPz4Xqs9YQkNmpFcJu2-5NTBh123qLIs/s1600-h/IMG_7236%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DIY built ins" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtMKCdfga71AXdTvaofnD-046UX2f9ZOVNnF5KcykKx9rwbzr0U8pb9oVMjkqQ3NSKbioxqEUm0jZrWCytfRRxH0K6QQabqCA8pHf3CZKD8VcoP-AlC8OReVf2kGohrL0khDoo5N80YIY/?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="DIY built ins" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It’s been about a year and a half since they were finished and they are holding up great. I’m really proud of Dad and I for tackling it. :) </p> <p>Funny thing is, the plan all along was to put a coffee table and four chairs in here, but we moved our old kitchen table in here a year or so ago and it’s become my husband’s office in the summer months: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFkUCpe24N19VuU4d87RLlcSSEsBjVixuKr4vdOZrH780TQ1oQJ94xtYjJuJ3E3cSHo-0_ow_5Gw2nOpUNh6xpFupgU9jCIXqGnqvtqZH9ILz3SupuR79Fa9Z0k-vnn60tSTHBuglCts/s1600-h/IMG_8836%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="dining room built ins" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUw3tIZR9ds5eVSGeBR4Vx4nyiF4Ybfjbo3bH1JyVKXV3G-mCSjKvmQVQF7pM90XRqc8aFuojhRMro3-jjtYPH5H61HrKH2LDXoRHio8W3cM9tzp_w0r5yl972JOpx62Gjc90f243ukc/?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="dining room built ins" width="500" /></a></p> <p>He has a basement office but can’t stand to be down there without natural light in the summer. So although his stuff laying around kind of drives me batty, I love that we’re actually using it. Many of you have suggested adding a more casual table back in here and the idea is growing on me. Plus, finding four matching (comfy) upholstered chairs is so dang expensive! </p> <p>I can’t forget the other view of the dining area – it’s really more of a landing/hallway of sorts. I found this before shot of our stairs that I didn’t know I had: </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5URb-_KrxgqJl6XX9XT4yCVvsDLdDSJajVb4T91reEYlC33-q6g5NMltaB94gBn49VkWsP2XASSZIzpRrU5jqO9l00fBxwHSHi5HqRcsx_WjlEUHS9Fry9hVpmTorIMH_TOnL0ObxSc/s1600-h/DSC02917%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-MIbHa7WIOzkuHRE2Qc7vIYuymRK-fL_nN-OGIeJ9dGTwOt1qeshJYURhvuvXXYWeI3cdziSKFGfc-i5uJ6Zkj6vtRZYAnRYp5HQdra7LSFCOmRFAIImgJHy0j9YZ4AXhtbg3G0gAYw/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="" width="450" /></a></p> <p>And I showed you this more recent after here: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzBlC1YSk_24GvxfMUxsfwhw8XjnS3TaDgn23r01PDY-PmmP-snAN9vBsncghKTiHMz2hQ3Rkh0NRjcNhanKPVJGZQORMkcEPXFnpaZ0DrxLnL2mycfPx1tw_ZBccgPzgHdzhi9pPmdvQ/s1600-h/IMG_9274%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="wood staircase " border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcBOXjTQyGmUiCRsdxluUCsO1YSCN1nhCic9VFSn_qAItMkIXTxBJIvsncVMYjyo7JyR3Y1W5PsoeFVwNpxSLuxYK_Bk6uX8J2cjDrSlaF4vRhPQNJkk5A1H-NpsxI4t4hN0QfBdEgCA/?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="wood staircase " width="500" /></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>Such a difference! (Here’s <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2010/03/stair-redo-how-to.html" target="_blank">the how to</a> on pulling the carpet off of stairs.) </p> <p>Many of you have asked how much I spent on the built ins and I’m not positive of the cost because we did them over such a long time. The kitchen cabinet bases were $320 total and the butcher block from IKEA was $130. I’m guessing we put in another $150-200 in trim and wood (I used basic pine wood for the actual bookcases). And the lights came to $140. So a rough estimate is about $750-800 for 12 feet of built ins. </p> <p>I would have paid three times that to have them done. Easily. </p> <p>So there’s a look back at what is now one of my favorite spaces in our home! It was one of my problem children before though. :) </p> <p>Do you have a dining room? Do you use it? Have you considered changing up how it’s used? </p> <p>P.S. Check out my tips on decorating bookcases in <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/11/how-to-accessorize-bookcases.html" target="_blank">this post</a>. </p> <p>Have a great weekend! </p>

Dining room built ins

Hello my friends! How are you? My sister-in-law and nephew have been here all week and this is our last day with them. I’m excited we have a sunny day (I think ALL day) to do something fun! In celebration of two anniversaries recently – ten years in our home and my blogging anniversary – I’ve been…

Read more »

Guest Post - A Shabby Chic Star!

<div style="text-align: center;">Hey guys! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm excited to be guest posting over at <a href="http://apeekintomyparadise.com/2014/06/guest-post-shabby-chic-star-for-the-fourth-of-july.html">A Peek Into My Paradise! </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Come on over and see it <a href="http://apeekintomyparadise.com/2014/06/guest-post-shabby-chic-star-for-the-fourth-of-july.html">HERE</a>! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://apeekintomyparadise.com/2014/06/guest-post-shabby-chic-star-for-the-fourth-of-july.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFSgRZqIJaRGsn_JOYEI9iaPxNTOT0Jpd89c9CzrsvFF1acwKokbpyCSLiSsyWQvbLn8lgF3_1_sA9CmMjSeDIhx3azAswoUIdVPKNmzAlTnXpc0p77VFLh-QjuTqIkOrrDL9vmpK_Lg/s1600/star+5.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br />

Guest Post - A Shabby Chic Star!

Hey guys! I'm excited to be guest posting over at A Peek Into My Paradise! Come on over and see it HERE! …

Read more »

Easy outdoor entertaining

<p>Hello all! Well, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I enjoy summers SO much more the older I get. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that my kiddo is in school now so I cherish the long, warm days all the more. But part of it is that I just appreciate our wonderful outdoor spaces more after a long, hard winter. We all know this past winter was one of those times five. </p> <p>My thing when hosting anything outdoors is to buy as little as possible specifically for outdoors. ;) I do have some outdoor plates, but beyond that I try to use items that can be used both inside and out. And even more so, I like to find ways to make regular home decor items work for entertaining.  </p> <p>We plan to host a few outdoor parties this summer so I was excited when Kirkland’s asked me to showcase some of their items for a summer soiree:</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-STw_d6kPrjA/U6pSXrm8NII/AAAAAAAAo3U/dZrSfCQcZjM/s1600-h/IMG_9287%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="outdoor entertaining ideas" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PFoJiDOUaYk/U6pSYxxE7SI/AAAAAAAAo3c/0oUIAzSbYoo/IMG_9287_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="outdoor entertaining ideas" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I LOVE those drink dispensers and was actually quite pleased with them – some of these can be finicky – they drip and malfunction a lot. But these did great. And I love that there are two and a stand for both of them!</p> <p>Here’s something weird about me -- now that I’ve given up soda I don’t drink caffeine at all anymore – I’ve never liked coffee or tea. But I tried this sweet tea that my husband loves and I liked it. It was <strong>really</strong> good. What is happening to me?? Liking both summer <em>and</em> tea now? I’m a whole new person. I’ve always thought the idea of sipping some iced tea on a hot summer day sounded so sweet and now I may just try it. :)</p> <p>So as I mentioned, my favorite part of outdoor entertaining is figuring out how to make regular indoor home decor work outside. I used one of their <a href="http://www.kirklands.com/section/Kitchen-Dining/2753.uts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kitchen decor</a> items (<a href="http://www.kirklands.com/product/Kitchen-Dining/Glassware-Drinkware/Ice-Cold-Bottle-with-Glasses-Set-of-3/pc/2753/c/2660/176110.uts" target="_blank">this</a> cute beverage bottle) as a vase for my hydrangeas:  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-urGiH94ij7Q/U6pSZn7GDOI/AAAAAAAAo3k/XGCz9bDIR3M/s1600-h/IMG_9280%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="hydrangeas in bottle " border="0" height="750" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-K2iZGUCl5wc/U6pSaSiZs2I/AAAAAAAAo3s/29UQPrJYImQ/IMG_9280_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="hydrangeas in bottle " width="500" /></a></p> <p>It has a lid that seals well but flips open like a vintage bottle – love it! </p> <p>I used one of their <a href="http://www.kirklands.com/product/Mason-Jar-Candle-Holder-Set-of-3/169677.uts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hanging mason jars</a> as a utensil holder: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TrsNfku42rE/U6pSbGn9mVI/AAAAAAAAo30/6IVdaG1BLvA/s1600-h/IMG_9300%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="easel chalkboard" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RG2Dcw0dogA/U6pScOR7BGI/AAAAAAAAo38/XV3f5RuqeGo/IMG_9300_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="easel chalkboard" width="500" /></a></p> <p>No plastic silverware – just the regular stuff will do just fine. :) </p> <p>A <a href="http://www.kirklands.com/product/Home-Decor-Pillows/Home-Accents/Baskets-Boxes/Metal-Petal-Accessory-Boxes/pc/2284/c/2342/sc/2631/176945.uts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">decorative box</a> doubles as a napkin holder: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c3yQAMRSr0Y/U6pScxmslSI/AAAAAAAAo4E/ZYqQ6t69HZk/s1600-h/IMG_9295%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="box for napkins" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-V4PRUKuKRKw/U6pSdj1JWMI/AAAAAAAAo4M/PAzFJV-SBCI/IMG_9295_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="box for napkins" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Napkins are always flying away in the wind so this was a perfect solution! The chalkboard part is just black vinyl stuck on the glass – super easy and works just great as a chalkboard! (I use a chalkboard pen so I can easily wipe it off.)</p> <p>I have to talk about the chalkboard a bit more cause it’s adorable. Their <a href="http://www.kirklands.com/category/Kitchen-Dining/Beverage-Dispensers/pc/2753/2963.uts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">drink dispensers</a> come with the chalkboard labels on chains: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0dEfmQw1Gg4/U6pSen3mpvI/AAAAAAAAo4U/z2g22hvQzXM/s1600-h/IMG_9296%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="double drink dispensers on stand" border="0" height="741" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tzoZRVH2090/U6pSfbwXWdI/AAAAAAAAo4c/za6u9hYU7LI/IMG_9296_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="double drink dispensers on stand" width="500" /></a></p> <p>And even some chalk! :) </p> <p>A decorative <a href="http://www.kirklands.com/product/Metal-and-Burlap-Basket-Medium/179406.uts" target="_blank">basket</a> corrals the plates easily – this would perfect when using paper plates outside too. It keeps them away from the wind and the elements: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YRNk85Oq1IQ/U6pSgNVgEGI/AAAAAAAAo4k/GCtUHcrZNWs/s1600-h/IMG_9302%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="tips for outdoor entertaining" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rWSTkRdBPn0/U6pShNDowAI/AAAAAAAAo4s/sd-LbUqJl94/IMG_9302_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="tips for outdoor entertaining" width="500" /></a></p> <p>And the basket was useful in another way too – I was able to fill it up with most of  the serving items and carry them out and back in easily: </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-003PpVkWfa4/U6pSh3YX0gI/AAAAAAAAo40/sMkXScqc8Ds/s1600-h/IMG_9303%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="outdoor entertaining" border="0" height="701" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WIMKS4NLdI4/U6pSizwJx2I/AAAAAAAAo48/nUDR4H5Al3Y/IMG_9303_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="outdoor entertaining" width="500" /></a> </p> <p>It’s the little things. :) </p> <p>It’s been a while since I’ve visited Kirkland’s and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. Everything was seriously adorable and the prices were fantastic: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tGZZgf6uxfM/U6pSjmXLwVI/AAAAAAAAo5E/moBOuG6vl4o/s1600-h/Kirklandsheader%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="glass drink dispensers" border="0" height="348" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Jqw-MGwyFOM/U6pSkrsE4lI/AAAAAAAAo5M/815Ed6EyjuY/Kirklandsheader_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="glass drink dispensers" width="550" /></a></p> <p>Kirkland’s is offering <strong>$250 to one of you</strong> to spend as you wish at their store or online! That will go a crazy long way. Check out the other beautiful outdoor entertaining ideas at <a href="http://www.beneathmyheart.net" target="_blank">Beneath My Heart</a>, <a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com" target="_blank">Home Stories A to Z</a> and <a href="http://www.justagirlblog.com" target="_blank">Just a Girl</a> as well.</p> <p>You can enter the giveaway by using this Rafflecopter doodad below. It’s easier and more private than leaving your email in the comments. Have fun and good luck! :)</p> <p> </p> <a id="rc-19fbe545" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/19fbe545/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a> <script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><font size="2"><em>Kirkland’s partnered with several bloggers to raise brand awareness and all received compensation in gift cards. All purchases and content are on my own accord and reflect my personal opinion and style. </em></font></p>

Easy outdoor entertaining

Hello all! Well, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I enjoy summers SO much more the older I get. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that my kiddo is in school now so I cherish the long, warm days all the more. But part of it is that I just appreciate our wonderful outdoor spaces more…

Read more »