Yes, we sold our beautiful old craftsman earlier this week. It's bittersweet for us; 1204 was the first home we bought together and where we brought our son and daughter home from the hospital. But, we know her new owner will love her just as much as we do.
We are moving back to Fort Worth and completely gutting my bachelorette pad to make it work as a family home. Please join us at Tiny House, Big Home as we embark on this next chapter of life and renovations. Cheers!
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Shared Kids Room Ideas
Our oldest kids fuss and fight like any other siblings. But, they're also only 14 months apart (you gotta have 'em when the hubby isn't deployed!) and in a lot of ways they are more like twins. They have their own language, they snuggle, and left to their own devices, they pile into each others beds. For the next few years at least, they'll be sharing a room, and I can't imagine they'd want it any other way. However, it's important to us that they have shared space and also their own space, even if it is contained in one room. I don't know when we'll own our own home again, or even when we'll be able to get our stuff out of storage. But, it never hurts to think ahead ;)
This is so bright and pretty, and would be easy enough to pull off in a rental.
This particular room is pottery barn, but Ikea makes a very similar day bed. The L- shape would help make the most of a small room. Love the built in storage!
Well, it wouldn't work forever, especially if our little man gets as tall as predicted, but I love the semi-partitioned space. Allows for privacy and makes the most of an awkward roof line. If our family were more sea-faring, I'd paint each triangle up like a sail.
Obviously, this is room for two little girls and wouldn't work for our kids. But, the limited color palette, and similar materials make the room look cohesive while still allowing for individuality.
Yes, I know this is a crib :) It would be so easy to build a toddler size bed into an extra closet. So cozy for a kid!
This probably comes from being a semi-only child ( my half sisters were grown when I came along) but I love the thought of our kids sharing a room. Am I nuts? Do your kids share a room? Love it or hate it? I'd appreciate any feedback!
This is so bright and pretty, and would be easy enough to pull off in a rental.
This particular room is pottery barn, but Ikea makes a very similar day bed. The L- shape would help make the most of a small room. Love the built in storage!
Well, it wouldn't work forever, especially if our little man gets as tall as predicted, but I love the semi-partitioned space. Allows for privacy and makes the most of an awkward roof line. If our family were more sea-faring, I'd paint each triangle up like a sail.
Obviously, this is room for two little girls and wouldn't work for our kids. But, the limited color palette, and similar materials make the room look cohesive while still allowing for individuality.
Yes, I know this is a crib :) It would be so easy to build a toddler size bed into an extra closet. So cozy for a kid!
This probably comes from being a semi-only child ( my half sisters were grown when I came along) but I love the thought of our kids sharing a room. Am I nuts? Do your kids share a room? Love it or hate it? I'd appreciate any feedback!
Monday, February 25, 2013
Texas...For Now
Where to begin? We lift misty Washington in October of last year for sunny Texas. Specifically, the small town where my husband grew up. Though my in-laws live in town, they have a small cattle operation a few minutes away. They were kind enough to offer us the use of their camp house while we figure out what comes next for us.
The property is where my husband's grandfather was raised, along with many brothers and sisters. Though the house burned many years ago, the original barn remains and is still used for hay storage.
Adjacent the barn is a silo. It is currently empty, but I am lobbying to turn it into another guest house. I think spending the night in a cool old silo would be so neat....what do you think? I love the top. It reminds me of the crimped bottle caps you'd find on the old glass coke bottles.
A couple of years back, Texas experienced a truly awful drought. Quite a few trees died, including some pretty good sized cedars. As time permits, my husband cuts them down, maybe 2 or 3 at a time, then hauls them to the front of the property using the tractor. He uses a chainsaw to cut a shallow lengthwise trench into each log. Then, we take turns using splitting spikes and a sledge hammer to separate the trunk into smaller pieces that will be used for either posts or rails depending upon their size...it is work This process is repeated until the entire trunk is used.
Slowly but surely, an entirely handmade and sustainably harvested fence is emerging.
Throughout the years, the property has seen many different uses; if my husbands grandfather could turn a profit on it, he farmed it. The land has grown peanuts and coastal hay; hogs, chickens, and finally cattle have all been raised on this land. The simple tin building you see below was once one of many hen houses.
.Long since inoperable, the old windmill still stands.
It is a beautiful piece of land with a fair bit of family history on it. It has been an adjustment of sorts- the first of several coming for our family in the next few months. But, for now at least, it is home.
.The property is where my husband's grandfather was raised, along with many brothers and sisters. Though the house burned many years ago, the original barn remains and is still used for hay storage.
Adjacent the barn is a silo. It is currently empty, but I am lobbying to turn it into another guest house. I think spending the night in a cool old silo would be so neat....what do you think? I love the top. It reminds me of the crimped bottle caps you'd find on the old glass coke bottles.
A couple of years back, Texas experienced a truly awful drought. Quite a few trees died, including some pretty good sized cedars. As time permits, my husband cuts them down, maybe 2 or 3 at a time, then hauls them to the front of the property using the tractor. He uses a chainsaw to cut a shallow lengthwise trench into each log. Then, we take turns using splitting spikes and a sledge hammer to separate the trunk into smaller pieces that will be used for either posts or rails depending upon their size...it is work This process is repeated until the entire trunk is used.
Slowly but surely, an entirely handmade and sustainably harvested fence is emerging.
Throughout the years, the property has seen many different uses; if my husbands grandfather could turn a profit on it, he farmed it. The land has grown peanuts and coastal hay; hogs, chickens, and finally cattle have all been raised on this land. The simple tin building you see below was once one of many hen houses.
It is a beautiful piece of land with a fair bit of family history on it. It has been an adjustment of sorts- the first of several coming for our family in the next few months. But, for now at least, it is home.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Smithsonian- Free Tickets!!!
Yup, you read that right! Go here to claim a ticket for yourself and a guest to any Smithsonian (or affiliated) museum on September 29 2012. We are headed to the Seattle Art Museum. Tons of museums to choose from- where are you going to go?
On a side note- sorry for the lack of posting. We are nuts with transitioning to civilian life and moving cross country!
On a side note- sorry for the lack of posting. We are nuts with transitioning to civilian life and moving cross country!
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Design Your Own Crib Bedding
Just found the coolest thing ever:
It's pricey as heck, though. I probably wouldn't ever pay that much for something my kids are ultimately going to get some yucky substances on. My puppy dog ensemble (see below) would have set us back about 500 bucks. I'm sure the quality is amazing- our kids are just too rough on their bedding to justify it.
I do think it's a great way to try out different patterns and colors if you're planning on making your own crib bedding. Most of the patterns shown can be approximated at JoAnne's.
But, just for fun, here's what I came up with:
And one of their prefabs:
Disclosure: none needed...pretty sure my assessment of their pricing will preclude my ever being asked to shill for them. But, wow do they have some pretty stuff!
Monday, September 10, 2012
Craftsman 1204 MLS Pictures
They're here!!! Our Northwest MLS# is 401198, but here's a preview. Once again, a huge thank you to our amazing realtor, Ms. Danya Wolf and our equally fantastic photographer, Larry. Without further ado:
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| Covered teak porch, view from rose garden |
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| Mature fir, cherry, and pear trees encircle the property |
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| Hand inset rock leads to floating rose garden |
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| The open floor plan of the great room encompasses living, dining, and original fireplace |
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| Original fireplace has been professionally retrofitted to accommodate wood stove |
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| French doors lead to the spacious master suite |
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| Master bedroom features dramatic crown molding and custom site-built his&hers closet |
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| Custom antique double sink console |
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| Slate Roman spa- the perfect spot for a luxurious bath or shower |
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| Spacious gourmet kitchen |
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| Fenced yard, river rock chimney, and enormous side porch |
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| Entry from access alley |
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| Montage with view of 2nd bedroom-currently, nursery |
Friday, September 7, 2012
The Cover of Real Estate Weekly
Gah!!!! We made the cover of Real Estate Weekly!!!! Can you tell we're completely over the moon?! Yeah, ok, it's a free publication, BUT it reaches 4 counties and typically only features super high-end homes, so we're ultra thrilled that the editors thought our reno was front page worthy. THANK YOU!!!!!
Our realtor just sent over the proof page and we wanted to give you a sneak peek- btw- can our realtor write a description, or what?!
Fingers crossed for an mls number within the next couple of days!!!!
Our realtor just sent over the proof page and we wanted to give you a sneak peek- btw- can our realtor write a description, or what?!
Fingers crossed for an mls number within the next couple of days!!!!
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Fall Inspiration
Well, we are impatiently waiting for our house to hit the MLS and for our amazing photographer to finish up his final edits to the (2 day!) photo-shoot so that we can share them with you all. In the mean time, here's some fall inspiration...whether you're still in the thick of summer and dreaming of cooler temps, or if, like us, the trees are already changing color, this should give you some great eye candy/food for thought. Enjoy! Hopefully, we'll have the professional pics of the house- and our mls listing- up for you guys by Friday!
Functional decor, though I'd skip the soda and load that puppy up with Pumpkin Ale! Blue Moon and Pyramid Brewery both make a delicious one:
This mini pumpkin and ribbon look would be super easy and super cheap to pull off- periodically, Michael's will load up a big crate of seasonal ribbon on deep clearance (look by the entrance).
Unpopped corn- genius and so appropriate for a fall or even Thanksgiving look. I think the candles would look just as good without the leaves, too:
Whether you choose to suspend these or not, it doesn't get any simpler than mason jars, acorns, and white votives:
These fall leaves look great in simple floating frames- it would be so great to take the kids on a walk and let them pick out their leaves, then help frame and display them:
I actually had one of these this morning: Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte is amazing, with or without the cool froth art. Oh, and the Salted Caramel Mocha is to die for, too!
Gorgeous shade, right? I think most of us have probably been told at one time or another that we "can't wear orange." Bull! Obviously, if you have bronzey/gold skin (like my lucky mom) it's easy, but everyone has a shade of orange (and red, too!) that they look freakin' awesome in. Even me. Who is ridiculously pale. If I can pull it off, so can you!
If you aren't ready for that much orange, why not pick up a couple of clip-on flowers at the craft store and put them on your shoes? No commitment and so cute:
And for those of you who just can't handle orange: go green!
Happy Wednesday, y'all!
Functional decor, though I'd skip the soda and load that puppy up with Pumpkin Ale! Blue Moon and Pyramid Brewery both make a delicious one:
This mini pumpkin and ribbon look would be super easy and super cheap to pull off- periodically, Michael's will load up a big crate of seasonal ribbon on deep clearance (look by the entrance).
Unpopped corn- genius and so appropriate for a fall or even Thanksgiving look. I think the candles would look just as good without the leaves, too:
Whether you choose to suspend these or not, it doesn't get any simpler than mason jars, acorns, and white votives:
These fall leaves look great in simple floating frames- it would be so great to take the kids on a walk and let them pick out their leaves, then help frame and display them:
I actually had one of these this morning: Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte is amazing, with or without the cool froth art. Oh, and the Salted Caramel Mocha is to die for, too!
Gorgeous shade, right? I think most of us have probably been told at one time or another that we "can't wear orange." Bull! Obviously, if you have bronzey/gold skin (like my lucky mom) it's easy, but everyone has a shade of orange (and red, too!) that they look freakin' awesome in. Even me. Who is ridiculously pale. If I can pull it off, so can you!
If you aren't ready for that much orange, why not pick up a couple of clip-on flowers at the craft store and put them on your shoes? No commitment and so cute:
And for those of you who just can't handle orange: go green!
Happy Wednesday, y'all!
Monday, September 3, 2012
Refinished Dressers
Remember the dresser refinishing ideas I shared a while ago? Well, I finally finished them. I only remembered to take a "before" of one-oops- but I'm really pleased with the results. All told, I put about 50 bucks into each one...not too bad. Here they are:
Our dresser:
Not too bad, considering that this is what we started out with:
The kiddos' dresser turned out pretty cute, too, I think:
And once again, sorry for the picture quality...the name of the game this week was to get it done fast. Happy monday, y'all!
Our dresser:
Not too bad, considering that this is what we started out with:
The kiddos' dresser turned out pretty cute, too, I think:
And once again, sorry for the picture quality...the name of the game this week was to get it done fast. Happy monday, y'all!
Friday, August 31, 2012
Weekend Wine Pairings
Busy weekend ahead! I had my last 2 wisdom teeth pulled this morning and tomorrow we have a professional coming to take pictures of the house, which should be on the market by this coming Tuesday!!! We thought we would share some of our easiest and most impressive pairings, just in case any of you are having company.
THE SHOW STOPPER:
This Kim Crawford is one of the pricier ones on our list at about 14 bucks, but it is certainly delicious. I find it buttery with notes of pear and vanilla. Perfect with shortbread cookies.
The Fun, Hip, and Trendy:
This has to be one of my new favorite wines... Starborough Marlborough. Bright and refreshing, the hubby and I like to enjoy a glaa with garlic stuffed olives. About 9 dollars a bottle and worth every penny- it drinks like a much more expensive wine.
The Spanish Red:
My husband actually introduced me to this wine when we were dating. It's mellow enough to drink alone, byt has the presence to stand up to just about any dish. Odd as it sounds, you canot beat a glass of Las Rocas with a bacon avocado cheeseburger...absolute Heaven! I've seen this wine as cheap as 9 bucks and as pricey as 17, so it just depends upon your retailer.
The Quirky:
Not everyone loves wine and sometimes it's just too hot for it any way. One of our favorite beers is from a Seattle based company; Red Hook ESB, which stands for English Style Bitter. Oddly enough, it is anything but bitter. Smooth and wirh a hint of molasses, this beer is scrmptious with ginger snaps. You must try it, you'll be glad you did!
Happy weekend and Labor day, y'all- I'm off to ice my jaw :)
THE SHOW STOPPER:
This Kim Crawford is one of the pricier ones on our list at about 14 bucks, but it is certainly delicious. I find it buttery with notes of pear and vanilla. Perfect with shortbread cookies.
The Fun, Hip, and Trendy:
This has to be one of my new favorite wines... Starborough Marlborough. Bright and refreshing, the hubby and I like to enjoy a glaa with garlic stuffed olives. About 9 dollars a bottle and worth every penny- it drinks like a much more expensive wine.
The Spanish Red:
My husband actually introduced me to this wine when we were dating. It's mellow enough to drink alone, byt has the presence to stand up to just about any dish. Odd as it sounds, you canot beat a glass of Las Rocas with a bacon avocado cheeseburger...absolute Heaven! I've seen this wine as cheap as 9 bucks and as pricey as 17, so it just depends upon your retailer.
The Quirky:
Not everyone loves wine and sometimes it's just too hot for it any way. One of our favorite beers is from a Seattle based company; Red Hook ESB, which stands for English Style Bitter. Oddly enough, it is anything but bitter. Smooth and wirh a hint of molasses, this beer is scrmptious with ginger snaps. You must try it, you'll be glad you did!
Happy weekend and Labor day, y'all- I'm off to ice my jaw :)
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
A Modern Home
We always thought we were old house kind of people. Lately, though, we've been thinking about building (several years down the road when/if we ever figure out where we want to live). And we're craving something a bit more modern this time. We know we want to keep it sustainable, too. Here's what we're looking at:
While the interior is a little stark for our tastes, I'm loving the use of metal, frosted glass, and concrete in this home:
I probably wouldn't incorporate quite this much glass into our home, but I love the way they sited the house to work with existing trees. Such a gorgeous green view:
The house and the landscape blend so seamlessly:
This is the hubby's favorite- he likes the corrugated and stacked entrance. Maybe part of an old repurposed shipping container?
Wooden and white:
Quite possibly the most perfect beach house:
What do you think- could you live with and love something this modern long term? Or would you get sick of it after a while?
While the interior is a little stark for our tastes, I'm loving the use of metal, frosted glass, and concrete in this home:
I probably wouldn't incorporate quite this much glass into our home, but I love the way they sited the house to work with existing trees. Such a gorgeous green view:
The house and the landscape blend so seamlessly:
This is the hubby's favorite- he likes the corrugated and stacked entrance. Maybe part of an old repurposed shipping container?
Wooden and white:
Quite possibly the most perfect beach house:
What do you think- could you live with and love something this modern long term? Or would you get sick of it after a while?
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