tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10205971196450974012024-03-18T01:14:34.622-07:00 A Nurse And A NerdAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.comBlogger109125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-3796514981502210292018-07-02T19:03:00.000-07:002018-07-02T19:03:55.039-07:00Meet HarrisonI can't believe it has been over a year since I updated the blog. A lot has happened in this last year.<br />
<br />
The
biggest thing being that we found out we were going to be having
another baby boy and he arrived on February 27th! (2 days before my
birthday!)<br />
<br />
His name is Harrison Thomas and he was born at 4:59 in the morning, 9lbs 1oz, 22inches long. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lmPOB-9q7hc/WyLItxSD9DI/AAAAAAABCag/gAvVyZVi9DADnbe-pDN8L0aSa6pT5w4MQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9226.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lmPOB-9q7hc/WyLItxSD9DI/AAAAAAABCag/gAvVyZVi9DADnbe-pDN8L0aSa6pT5w4MQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_9226.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I
felt compelled to come back to this here blog place and share a little
about our new boy. It was a year ago Father's Day weekend that I found out I
was pregnant.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Finding Out </h3>
We had plans to
go to the zoo and I took a pregnancy test right before I left. Like
RIGHT before we left... like I didn't really have enough time to wait
the 3 minutes to see what the result was. I had about 1 minute (because hand hygiene) in which
time I could see a very faint blue positive line. I thought: maybe I
was but maybe I wasn't. And we left for the zoo. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tMcmo_eyzlI/WyKCRkZiK6I/AAAAAAABCZA/WvWc3TwzZugTDcOJywcVYhT-fRrXc0BnQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_7044.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tMcmo_eyzlI/WyKCRkZiK6I/AAAAAAABCZA/WvWc3TwzZugTDcOJywcVYhT-fRrXc0BnQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_7044.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
We had a great time at the zoo (mostly) and Abe LOVED all the <u>rocks</u>.<br />
Animals?-eh.<br />
The train ride? -we weren't so sure.<br />
But have you seen these rocks?! :-)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bk2-JkI2JfA/WyKCOwKmO9I/AAAAAAABCY4/puHtuqx1ty4hRjGAkYqx7H1mS-UTqhfTgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_7043.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bk2-JkI2JfA/WyKCOwKmO9I/AAAAAAABCY4/puHtuqx1ty4hRjGAkYqx7H1mS-UTqhfTgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_7043.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
2 year olds. What do you expect! <br />
<br />
So we got home and I found a more clearly-positive pregnancy test in the trash.<br />
<br />
Another
pregnancy test later, I was sure this was the real deal. Michael
didn't know I was taking these tests (I kinda like keeping him in the
dark about these things) so I had an opportunity to surprise him. The
next day was Fathers Day so I wished him a Happy Father's Day by holding
up the positive pregnancy test. Big hugs, lots of excitement.<br />
<br />
As
the pregnancy progressed I was just so sure we were having a girl based
on how different I felt compared to last time. Wrong. Another boy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U54iPuFl_OM/WyKEO-5hDII/AAAAAAABCZU/UYd15qJONHQCd1GKtYpr05bf2o88C7u7gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_7842.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="1600" height="246" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U54iPuFl_OM/WyKEO-5hDII/AAAAAAABCZU/UYd15qJONHQCd1GKtYpr05bf2o88C7u7gCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_7842.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We were so excited that Abe would be getting a little brother!<br />
<br />
As
the due date approached there was discussion about his size. With the
tearing I had with my last delivery (3rd degree) and the estimated size of this baby
(he was measuring 2 weeks ahead for head circumference and about 9lbs
when I was 38 weeks), my doctor offered to induce me. I wasn't super
excited about being induce (again) but knowing that I would likely be
overdue like I was with Abe and possibly tear again, we agreed to go
ahead with the induction.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Labor & Delivery</h3>
Induction
with Pitocin started at 8am and went very slowly. Harrison was still
pretty high so my contractions were not really painful until after the
Doctor broke my water around 8pm when I was 4cm dilated. So Michael and
I had a very boring day of walking, TV, podcasts, repeat. Then once my
water was broken, contractions really started to progress and
intensify. Epidural was in around 1am. Boy was I was ready for it! One
hour later I was nearly 9cm. And another hour later I was 10 cm. The
doctor wanted me to "labor down" which just meant that, since I had an
epidural, I could just rest and allow my contractions to bring Harrison
down further into the birth canal. When the nurse came in to do some
"test pushes," she quickly stopped me or else she was going to be
delivering him right then and there. Once the doctor came, 1.5 pushes
later and he was born!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGVOS25c8_o/WyLBG5l4d5I/AAAAAAABCZg/VnUJTJJPxyQN02L7Vp5gzDTBXhsT_mS0wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9396.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGVOS25c8_o/WyLBG5l4d5I/AAAAAAABCZg/VnUJTJJPxyQN02L7Vp5gzDTBXhsT_mS0wCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_9396.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
1st time vs 2nd time</h3>
I
debated on whether or not I was going to share his birth story, but the
reason I wanted to share was to say that even if you have a
tough first labor, it doesn't mean that your second will be that way.
With Abe I pushed for 2.5 hours only to deliver with vacuum assistance
and a 3rd degree tear. This time I pushed for maybe a minute and would
not have torn at all except that Harrison's hand was up by his face when
he was delivered and his elbow cost me a 2nd degree tear. But let me
tell you from experience, there is a HUGE difference between a 2nd and
3rd degree tear. I was feeling better *down there* in a matter of a few
weeks instead of a few months.<br />
<br />
So I'm incredibly grateful for how this labor went in comparison to the last one.<br />
<br />
As far as comparing postpartum periods, overall, the 2nd time around was so much easier.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_U3Ip-HqvRQ/WyLO2A60Q9I/AAAAAAABCaw/sQ3G8xkHopwEfRpAoaeyvluescJ3QobiwCLcBGAs/s1600/HTB0043%252Chuge.1522543776.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_U3Ip-HqvRQ/WyLO2A60Q9I/AAAAAAABCaw/sQ3G8xkHopwEfRpAoaeyvluescJ3QobiwCLcBGAs/s400/HTB0043%252Chuge.1522543776.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
I
have enjoyed the confidence that comes with having done this before. I
initially planned on breastfeeding for 3 months before switching to
pumping but plans changed. About a week after Harrison was born, I
was rushed to the ER with postpartum hemorrhaging. I lost so much blood
that my blood pressure was bottoming out and I was unable to sit up
without getting pretty faint and nearly passing out. The severe
lightheadedness only lasted about 8 hrs and then got better as they
pumped me full of fluids, but it was long enough to have to give Harrison
a bottle and he struggled latching after that. I didn't fight it, I
just switched to pumping exclusively and we haven't looked back since.<br />
<br />
And
that's what I mean about confidence. I didn't even hesitate. I just
did what needed to be done for both me and Harrison. I didn't guilt
myself into forcing breastfeeding when I didn't really need to. ...When I
knew that pumping would work for me. I'm so thankful that I could
switch to pumping with no problem and could still provide Harrison with
breast milk.<br />
<br />
<h3>
About Harrison</h3>
Before Harrison
was even a twinkle in his daddy's eye ;-), we were praying for him. We
would nightly ask Abe what he would like to pray for and every time he
would say "Baby!" So every night we prayed for "all the babies",
including any that would come into our family. Once we found out I was
pregnant, we started to pray more specifically for our baby. I prayed
that God would give us EXACTLY who we needed in our family. And it's so
fun to see how he is already answering that prayer, and will continue
to do so. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ByG4dymIPhM/WyLDUe39YyI/AAAAAAABCZ0/uww5Tb-vPlAb_Xg0JkVNV6qct1uzUOOUgCLcBGAs/s1600/HTB0038%252Chuge.1522341098.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ByG4dymIPhM/WyLDUe39YyI/AAAAAAABCZ0/uww5Tb-vPlAb_Xg0JkVNV6qct1uzUOOUgCLcBGAs/s400/HTB0038%252Chuge.1522341098.jpg" width="266" /></a> </div>
Harrison is a dream baby. He sleeps through the night, takes great naps and is all around sweet and happy when he <i>is</i>
awake! He loves his car seat and his thumb. Both put him quickly to
sleep. He loves cooing and laughing, especially when you sing to him
and clap his hands together. We just couldn't love him more.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Harrison's Name</h4>
We
chose his name as a nod to Purdue University, our Alma Mater and a very
special place for Michael and I. At Purdue, there is Harrison Street
and Harrison Hall and Harrison High School. These are all named after
Benjamin Harrison who was on the Board of Trustees and the 23rd
President of the United States. We loved that we could name him
something that signified a place that means so much to us. Purdue is
where we started our careers, grew in our faith, made life long friends,
got married, and started our adult lives together. His middle name ,
Thomas, is after my dad. (If you remember, Abe's middle name is Mark,
after Michael's dad.)<br />
<br />
<h3>
Abe's Big Brother Role</h3>
After
people ask how Harrison is doing, they always ask about Abe and how
he's handling his new role as big brother. My answer is always: Great!
We really couldn't expect any more from him. He LOVES his baby
brother. He'll come up to him and put his hand on Harrison's cheek and
smile. "Hi baby Hairless." That's how he says Harrison. So sweet! I'm
sure it will change as Harrison gets older and starts to get into Abe's
toys but for now, they couldn't be any sweeter together.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcHW8Nfud0I/WyLDZbpL6GI/AAAAAAABCZ4/CBbQ7yEBXqkJJKQeH8CWM5uuADY3bgnXgCLcBGAs/s1600/HTB0017%252Chuge.1522340866.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcHW8Nfud0I/WyLDZbpL6GI/AAAAAAABCZ4/CBbQ7yEBXqkJJKQeH8CWM5uuADY3bgnXgCLcBGAs/s400/HTB0017%252Chuge.1522340866.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Thanks
so much for all you well-wishers and for sharing in our excitement. We
couldn't feel more blessed to have these two boys in our lives. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-75135893255928589022017-06-05T11:47:00.000-07:002017-06-05T11:47:00.077-07:00Abe's 2nd Birthday PartyThis doesn't seem like it can be true, but this baby turned 2 years old today!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9cInLjs9CFw/WTWYi_tvuHI/AAAAAAABB6A/sG317SUj83EcJ5I0sVi2ELQhsSm0YG9jgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9cInLjs9CFw/WTWYi_tvuHI/AAAAAAABB6A/sG317SUj83EcJ5I0sVi2ELQhsSm0YG9jgCLcB/s640/DSC_0015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Last year we thew him an Honest Abe party. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hqXvUw7mlEY/WTWY3-InLzI/AAAAAAABB6E/FxEBZjGx32IezA3I-lI3dK5syj7BDJZ_ACLcB/s1600/IMG_4380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="458" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hqXvUw7mlEY/WTWY3-InLzI/AAAAAAABB6E/FxEBZjGx32IezA3I-lI3dK5syj7BDJZ_ACLcB/s640/IMG_4380.JPG" width="458" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This year we went for a construction theme. I was looking for a much simpler party planning process this year. The construction theme was so easy because we already had a lot of the decor and anything else I needed was easy to find in stores since it is such a popular theme. There are also tons of ideas on Pinterest which is where I found inspiration for the invite. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2-tuz8TSsoA/WTVyZ16-X_I/AAAAAAABB4o/Z5UW2u6fzXYdn_WxFRvirxhdaRVLsjSxQCLcB/s1600/Abe%2527s%2B2nd%2BBirthday%2BInvite%2Be.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1561" data-original-width="1186" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2-tuz8TSsoA/WTVyZ16-X_I/AAAAAAABB4o/Z5UW2u6fzXYdn_WxFRvirxhdaRVLsjSxQCLcB/s640/Abe%2527s%2B2nd%2BBirthday%2BInvite%2Be.jpg" width="486" /></a></div>
<br />
The construction theme was kind of a happy coincidence since the road my parents live on is literally closed... And that's where the party was! So people had to drive around the road closed signs to get to the party. Free decorations! <br />
<br />
And obviously, we had to stop for a photo op. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3T9kPciJuS8/WTVwupNCOXI/AAAAAAABB4k/AFAIZYNjwr8bDs8VZF2tvEYMFnjqcsu5ACLcB/s1600/DSC_0616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Construction Birthday Party" border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3T9kPciJuS8/WTVwupNCOXI/AAAAAAABB4k/AFAIZYNjwr8bDs8VZF2tvEYMFnjqcsu5ACLcB/s640/DSC_0616.jpg" title="Construction Birthday Party" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We knew it was going to be a warm day so we planned to give Abe his gift right at the start of the party so the kids could play with it if they didn't want to get in the pool. It was a hit! It's the <a href="https://www.step2.com/p/rain-showers-splash-pond-water-table/">Step 2 Rain Shower Splash Water Table</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zGWZ2hr4eZM/WTV1hNru5fI/AAAAAAABB5I/HCQMNQie_VcQGC9NEawuhlQxabY7T_NTQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3944.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zGWZ2hr4eZM/WTV1hNru5fI/AAAAAAABB5I/HCQMNQie_VcQGC9NEawuhlQxabY7T_NTQCLcB/s640/IMG_3944.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jUYHA-fRsL8/WTV2LVKS_bI/AAAAAAABB5Y/nZXQjb7XqIYHzLftdfb5h92K-yHtTu4XACLcB/s1600/IMG_6951.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jUYHA-fRsL8/WTV2LVKS_bI/AAAAAAABB5Y/nZXQjb7XqIYHzLftdfb5h92K-yHtTu4XACLcB/s640/IMG_6951.JPG" width="426" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;">*</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We also had a corn pit for the kiddos play with. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sNJWDexhkG4/WTV0HaYWtNI/AAAAAAABB4s/4NhYUoVXqTAQdXWYRIezngiiaOb1L6w8gCLcB/s1600/DSC_0500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sNJWDexhkG4/WTV0HaYWtNI/AAAAAAABB4s/4NhYUoVXqTAQdXWYRIezngiiaOb1L6w8gCLcB/s640/DSC_0500.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
And then, of course, the pool was also available but was still pretty cold since we had just opened it the weekend before. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ltjDMNX91ME/WTV0tJUWkhI/AAAAAAABB40/nSMRHlOveB4ZVDDIkCyTukaRfuPgw7FVQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ltjDMNX91ME/WTV0tJUWkhI/AAAAAAABB40/nSMRHlOveB4ZVDDIkCyTukaRfuPgw7FVQCLcB/s640/DSC_0507.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Although, there were a few that were brave enough to jump in. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fyXecWiSNx4/WTV2NDfqdtI/AAAAAAABB5c/jWgXrUN1fAol1Rf8p2fFerwUk5g2qbVAwCLcB/s1600/IMG_6953.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1600" height="512" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fyXecWiSNx4/WTV2NDfqdtI/AAAAAAABB5c/jWgXrUN1fAol1Rf8p2fFerwUk5g2qbVAwCLcB/s640/IMG_6953.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I didn't really manage to get any pictures of the food table but it wasn't anything very elaborate anyway. I used a couple of Abe's toy dump trucks and back hoes to decorate with and store utensils in. I didn't label each food like I've done in the past which saved me some work. Although I did make a cute sign that said "Dig In" with a picture of a shovel that Michael drew (he's better at drawing than I am, it's one of his engineering talent). The sign was simple and cute and got the point across.... which was exactly my goal for decor this time around. Speaking of signs. We borrowed this one from my Aunt and Uncle (remember saint Steve?), perfect! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rd6RtX4Wk6M/WTWcp3Fbq6I/AAAAAAABB6I/hOC9qv0mlPYsnM0PsFnbpvJWeuNabXZqwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0605e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rd6RtX4Wk6M/WTWcp3Fbq6I/AAAAAAABB6I/hOC9qv0mlPYsnM0PsFnbpvJWeuNabXZqwCLcB/s640/DSC_0605e.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
We eat burgers, hot dogs, chips, and fruit. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MYckAG9E8A8/WTV1OHKnSkI/AAAAAAABB5A/PZ2s4X1BGLkenTk2RvS67P6bqYsn7bDJgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0571.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MYckAG9E8A8/WTV1OHKnSkI/AAAAAAABB5A/PZ2s4X1BGLkenTk2RvS67P6bqYsn7bDJgCLcB/s640/DSC_0571.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I got all the kids little construction hats and I made up little favors with a small dump truck, smarties, a fruit snack, and sparklers for them as well. <br />
Small construction cones were found at the Dollar Tree. Construction hats and mini dump trucks were from amazon. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YiBPtEZpikI/WTWV7b6mUCI/AAAAAAABB50/QLkZLiHuP1Q8Wrpzt_j9FHLCi1Ztiz6HACLcB/s1600/DSC_0540.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YiBPtEZpikI/WTWV7b6mUCI/AAAAAAABB50/QLkZLiHuP1Q8Wrpzt_j9FHLCi1Ztiz6HACLcB/s640/DSC_0540.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
And for dessert I made dirt pudding instead of cake. <br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VwWIfUuTjEE/WTV1tFp4wPI/AAAAAAABB5M/BQ9SZglooDAMk4EQmOAAuFx6knAocl-QwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3948.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VwWIfUuTjEE/WTV1tFp4wPI/AAAAAAABB5M/BQ9SZglooDAMk4EQmOAAuFx6knAocl-QwCLcB/s640/IMG_3948.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W08JnlM4fwg/WTWXBREETDI/AAAAAAABB58/LVJ7dS1OOHcScvN_Praia6ZvE57zH3phQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W08JnlM4fwg/WTWXBREETDI/AAAAAAABB58/LVJ7dS1OOHcScvN_Praia6ZvE57zH3phQCLcB/s640/DSC_0594.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Abe needed some help blowing out the candles. </div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_-CWNzhrPdY/WTV1Zp0CosI/AAAAAAABB5E/v3b4bSelX04MCY6YySSZjkXYdYeNhdL_wCLcB/s1600/DSC_0598.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_-CWNzhrPdY/WTV1Zp0CosI/AAAAAAABB5E/v3b4bSelX04MCY6YySSZjkXYdYeNhdL_wCLcB/s640/DSC_0598.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
...But no help eating! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z7O1gxElv8E/WTWehr17uqI/AAAAAAABB6U/PSM-s8NBsnIy6sG0XKqYMTthPZ2kzoITQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z7O1gxElv8E/WTWehr17uqI/AAAAAAABB6U/PSM-s8NBsnIy6sG0XKqYMTthPZ2kzoITQCLcB/s640/DSC_0601.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally it was time for gifts! And I think we managed to have the best gift table ever! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9PtBMTdVQs/WTV2KYgFB4I/AAAAAAABB5U/6ugVuBDNG_8k_mFtqdm_VVOaBzSzrCtCgCLcB/s1600/IMG_6910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9PtBMTdVQs/WTV2KYgFB4I/AAAAAAABB5U/6ugVuBDNG_8k_mFtqdm_VVOaBzSzrCtCgCLcB/s640/IMG_6910.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MHUnlfLRME0/WTV04TC9-FI/AAAAAAABB48/-k0jGFRMRrUWi4jaED1b0UZBgg88-WZoACLcB/s1600/DSC_0551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Construction Birthday Party" border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MHUnlfLRME0/WTV04TC9-FI/AAAAAAABB48/-k0jGFRMRrUWi4jaED1b0UZBgg88-WZoACLcB/s640/DSC_0551.JPG" title="Construction Birthday Party" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lQo_YX-10uU/WTV167eVwaI/AAAAAAABB5Q/4iXVfPMZ4Y07E3H8tbrH2ooIIiZLcjt8wCLcB/s1600/IMG_6903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Construction Birthday Party" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lQo_YX-10uU/WTV167eVwaI/AAAAAAABB5Q/4iXVfPMZ4Y07E3H8tbrH2ooIIiZLcjt8wCLcB/s640/IMG_6903.JPG" title="Construction Birthday Party" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
We ended the evening with more swimming and then a few sparklers. <br />
Looks like the Birthday Boy gave this party a big thumbs up! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Erj09HaSMDk/WTV2OtgLLpI/AAAAAAABB5g/Ft-bzSRK708CAEoTPlWGM_dJYGwk4qqxwCLcB/s1600/IMG_6954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Erj09HaSMDk/WTV2OtgLLpI/AAAAAAABB5g/Ft-bzSRK708CAEoTPlWGM_dJYGwk4qqxwCLcB/s640/IMG_6954.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-No1ScREucj0/WTV2WOEYEwI/AAAAAAABB5k/6FRhvWXvNVIKuveN8TuEWqGvzyc6qUTigCLcB/s1600/IMG_6956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-No1ScREucj0/WTV2WOEYEwI/AAAAAAABB5k/6FRhvWXvNVIKuveN8TuEWqGvzyc6qUTigCLcB/s640/IMG_6956.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We can't believe our little baby cakes is already 2. We couldn't be more grateful for him. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Photo cred to Bill KercherAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-62519767001354241472017-04-30T18:06:00.001-07:002017-04-30T18:06:44.712-07:00Our Phase 2 Addition: in a nutshell It may have been a long time since I have blogged, but that certainly doesn't mean that things have not been changing around here.<br />
<br />
Last time I posted, I announced that we were embarking on a big addition....<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2014/11/announcing-our-next-big-project.html">and it wasn't a baby.</a> We planned to add on a mudroom and garage. But before I get into that, I thought I'd go way back to when we first bought our house to show you what it looked like.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ngmcOTwTzyI/WMmJe3k0F0I/AAAAAAABBxo/1x4LT2nXyecQO9X_7sb39SAe2KIiVLB6wCLcB/s1600/IMG_0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ngmcOTwTzyI/WMmJe3k0F0I/AAAAAAABBxo/1x4LT2nXyecQO9X_7sb39SAe2KIiVLB6wCLcB/s640/IMG_0305.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Yikes! That looks pretty gloomy. And it was. <br />
<br />
This was the first picture we ever took of our house. We first looked at it in December 2012 and didn't closed until that following May. It was quite the process, but I won't get into that.<br />
<br />
Here are a few pictures we took the day we closed on the house. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jPtkJi8qDgY/WMmJmUV41lI/AAAAAAABBxs/XFtrT02aN_0q2ccvn35UTAl_h35TmkdjACLcB/s1600/DSC_1125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jPtkJi8qDgY/WMmJmUV41lI/AAAAAAABBxs/XFtrT02aN_0q2ccvn35UTAl_h35TmkdjACLcB/s640/DSC_1125.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4zyr_0RzXoE/WMmKx9wlaII/AAAAAAABBx8/h5cLoQLZpjQAfEp33gvpiiVkr8KI_4mUQCLcB/s1600/DSC_1130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4zyr_0RzXoE/WMmKx9wlaII/AAAAAAABBx8/h5cLoQLZpjQAfEp33gvpiiVkr8KI_4mUQCLcB/s640/DSC_1130.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTowjLFEsbM/WMmLI0GjiVI/AAAAAAABByI/TNUO3gwR0j8h93GIKkuJQHPuBzmLNBkGQCLcB/s1600/DSC_1135-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTowjLFEsbM/WMmLI0GjiVI/AAAAAAABByI/TNUO3gwR0j8h93GIKkuJQHPuBzmLNBkGQCLcB/s640/DSC_1135-002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Initial improvements included ripping out overgrown bushes, cutting down rotting trees, and replacing the windows and siding. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pildACe8tpM/WMmQ6DiCaDI/AAAAAAABByk/ncrUM8S3SH092xsOKfRpeXNZxGw80M1fwCLcB/s1600/Memorial%2BDay%2B%2527141-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pildACe8tpM/WMmQ6DiCaDI/AAAAAAABByk/ncrUM8S3SH092xsOKfRpeXNZxGw80M1fwCLcB/s640/Memorial%2BDay%2B%2527141-001.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
We knew we were going to eventually add on a garage and porch so we left some things as is. On the the old garage, we left the white siding and the front gutters. We also planned to replace the roof in the next phase so that the shingles would all match. The old wrought iron railing was scrapped and it was replaced with wood railing, that I painted white.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPFbGUZP2hs/WMmRVdVXkpI/AAAAAAABByo/b6bp0CvVz40o7ifCIWoheWJJ39KlMuDCwCLcB/s1600/2014-07-04%2B12.07.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPFbGUZP2hs/WMmRVdVXkpI/AAAAAAABByo/b6bp0CvVz40o7ifCIWoheWJJ39KlMuDCwCLcB/s640/2014-07-04%2B12.07.44.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KwzgcZW29rQ/WMmSLg3VjcI/AAAAAAABBy0/UD6vIOcbgpkj2neRYK2GMR2Tf8Ye5kZ_gCLcB/s1600/DSC_0677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KwzgcZW29rQ/WMmSLg3VjcI/AAAAAAABBy0/UD6vIOcbgpkj2neRYK2GMR2Tf8Ye5kZ_gCLcB/s640/DSC_0677.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
And that's pretty much how our home looked for 3 years before we started demolition last July.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3NMpzOjWF24/WMmU8Zis8WI/AAAAAAABBzQ/FEdTST3bSEozqcJQxzGASMnF8RehHnrAwCEw/s1600/Clip%2B%252318.mov" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3NMpzOjWF24/WMmU8Zis8WI/AAAAAAABBzQ/FEdTST3bSEozqcJQxzGASMnF8RehHnrAwCEw/s640/Clip%2B%252318.mov" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wu1oZGFfFV0/WMmSU-VkhuI/AAAAAAABBy4/n-kbDG9xDJsnG616oxjVZA9VSsHJ5lk8ACLcB/s1600/DSC08453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wu1oZGFfFV0/WMmSU-VkhuI/AAAAAAABBy4/n-kbDG9xDJsnG616oxjVZA9VSsHJ5lk8ACLcB/s640/DSC08453.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Let's zoom on through with a little month by month update for you:<br />
<br />
<h4>
August:</h4>
Foundation and framing of garage<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wlBrszd00_w/WMmgt-mXeeI/AAAAAAABB0M/M3XEQwkCz9I1pcs0LRR9PnO1WOXikbUhgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4954.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wlBrszd00_w/WMmgt-mXeeI/AAAAAAABB0M/M3XEQwkCz9I1pcs0LRR9PnO1WOXikbUhgCLcB/s640/IMG_4954.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<h4>
September:</h4>
More framing of garage<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i8zcsLH7mZg/WMmifQlk06I/AAAAAAABB0g/9E2SXk8uyMAWAeh_pHVh206k_vWXlzPgACLcB/s1600/IMG_5263.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i8zcsLH7mZg/WMmifQlk06I/AAAAAAABB0g/9E2SXk8uyMAWAeh_pHVh206k_vWXlzPgACLcB/s640/IMG_5263.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
October:</h4>
Windows, porch framing <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QEn7UodeLbY/WMmgLV9JpfI/AAAAAAABB0A/6lK4IODXqRYZbV2vqVmv0Yuwk-1aaD8JgCLcB/s1600/DSC09563.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QEn7UodeLbY/WMmgLV9JpfI/AAAAAAABB0A/6lK4IODXqRYZbV2vqVmv0Yuwk-1aaD8JgCLcB/s640/DSC09563.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
November:</h4>
Pour concrete, continue to frame porch <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VS8dydPM6wU/WMmg_DBtcoI/AAAAAAABB0U/P7Q7D8W-3Y4VPXXk_jOCooXfaogiRZyCgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5494.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VS8dydPM6wU/WMmg_DBtcoI/AAAAAAABB0U/P7Q7D8W-3Y4VPXXk_jOCooXfaogiRZyCgCLcB/s640/IMG_5494.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S2yR7AJrDYg/WMmgWAS2UcI/AAAAAAABB0E/TT-OEyjq9YQj8zomhoY9XTbEpIPiFNUEgCLcB/s1600/DSC09573.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S2yR7AJrDYg/WMmgWAS2UcI/AAAAAAABB0E/TT-OEyjq9YQj8zomhoY9XTbEpIPiFNUEgCLcB/s640/DSC09573.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<h4>
December:</h4>
Complete framing, new roof, garage door installation, start siding<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1aUO-gkGeLg/WMmecNhmCCI/AAAAAAABBzo/4IFXZxCgc6IsYLuKYDqy2Sr14Sqru0CGQCLcB/s1600/DSC09612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1aUO-gkGeLg/WMmecNhmCCI/AAAAAAABBzo/4IFXZxCgc6IsYLuKYDqy2Sr14Sqru0CGQCLcB/s640/DSC09612.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
January:</h4>
Complete siding, install lighting, railing and skirting <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ht6C-5vDMw/WMmeySQIY2I/AAAAAAABBzs/OVrPGXAvZ_EiIyt5B1uKeRbSM1kJ3CXQwCLcB/s1600/DSC09617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ht6C-5vDMw/WMmeySQIY2I/AAAAAAABBzs/OVrPGXAvZ_EiIyt5B1uKeRbSM1kJ3CXQwCLcB/s640/DSC09617.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
February/March: </h4>
Odds and ends getting finished up like the railing, post wraps, the driveway. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6IEie4meshc/WMnh2ufT0YI/AAAAAAABB08/UpWbxAEUlagYaDzXd3LkDg07O3Dn6MsvACLcB/s1600/DSC09624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6IEie4meshc/WMnh2ufT0YI/AAAAAAABB08/UpWbxAEUlagYaDzXd3LkDg07O3Dn6MsvACLcB/s640/DSC09624.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
And here is today:<br />
We still have a number of things to do... a few more post wraps, planting grass, stain the porch floor and stairs. And then of course there is one very obvious thing we need to do: The Landscaping... which we don't think will happen until next spring. But we do plan on working on putting in a stone retaining wall this summer (hopefully).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wdf0-EuVC3s/WQZzfr5KKeI/AAAAAAABB2k/FlIQ16asbegX3QR9S5nZ30jzL4UJotkfwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wdf0-EuVC3s/WQZzfr5KKeI/AAAAAAABB2k/FlIQ16asbegX3QR9S5nZ30jzL4UJotkfwCLcB/s640/DSC_0484.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Here's a side-by-side comparison with the house when we first bought it:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l02qmj0kdG4/WMnqB0_2NII/AAAAAAABB1M/cNfDc36n3LMOlMvmI8blk8K_-raelT4NgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l02qmj0kdG4/WMnqB0_2NII/AAAAAAABB1M/cNfDc36n3LMOlMvmI8blk8K_-raelT4NgCLcB/s640/IMG_0307.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9g5HzEH5iWE/WQZ0tRREjNI/AAAAAAABB20/TXji4Rrf_WkwQ4hOaStV68QRtRKbbiI6ACLcB/s1600/DSC_0489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9g5HzEH5iWE/WQZ0tRREjNI/AAAAAAABB20/TXji4Rrf_WkwQ4hOaStV68QRtRKbbiI6ACLcB/s640/DSC_0489.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Does it look like the same house?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
No? I'm ok with that. :-) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another side-by-side comparison for you. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jPtkJi8qDgY/WMmJmUV41lI/AAAAAAABBxs/XFtrT02aN_0q2ccvn35UTAl_h35TmkdjACLcB/s1600/DSC_1125.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jPtkJi8qDgY/WMmJmUV41lI/AAAAAAABBxs/XFtrT02aN_0q2ccvn35UTAl_h35TmkdjACLcB/s640/DSC_1125.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dnj3gNOG-Ys/WQZ2Dcj5l8I/AAAAAAABB3A/hmWcl7SiDPgRntb9LEYkg1oWygWJGeZbgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dnj3gNOG-Ys/WQZ2Dcj5l8I/AAAAAAABB3A/hmWcl7SiDPgRntb9LEYkg1oWygWJGeZbgCLcB/s640/DSC_0484.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't wait to get some flower boxes and some hanging ferns out this summer. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you have followed this process closely, you may be wondering why we
ended up adding the porch on.. because, going into this project that was
not the plan. We thought we were just going to add on the mudroom and the garage and wait to add the porch later on down the road. Long story short, it just made sense
to proceed with the porch now, considering some of the changes we were making to the house. And man am I glad we did. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is amazing how much more enjoyment we are getting out of our home with our new addition... especially the porch. I knew that a big garage would be great, I am just a little surprised to the extent I love having a porch. I felt sort of trapped inside my house because there wasn't really any place to hang out outside since we bought it. And now my outdoor enjoyment at home has improved 100 fold! Abe loves to ride his cozy coupe around the drive while I sit on the porch, eating grapes, getting fanned by Michael. Except not that last part. Just seeing if you were still reading! ;-) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are SO thankful for everyone that has helped us get to the (near) end of this construction project. We couldn't have done it without some key players: My parents, my Uncle Steve (remember Saint Steve from phase 1 renovation?!), and <a href="http://www.msqconstruction.com/">M2 construction</a>. Big time thanks and hugs for all of them for helping us see this thing through! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So that's all for today folks! I haven't even gotten into sharing about the inside, there is a lot more to come and I will do my best at updating things more regularly as we progress. But in the mean time, I am much more apt to sharing via instagram. For the most up-to-date info, follow me there! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vx5ntQHOLQ/WQaBVGzAmwI/AAAAAAABB3Q/dEYNjNtW71ki0Y4KsH-jMO9qK7hu6SQGQCLcB/s1600/exteriorbeforeandafter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Porch and Garage Addition, Dark Blue Siding, Wrap around porch" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vx5ntQHOLQ/WQaBVGzAmwI/AAAAAAABB3Q/dEYNjNtW71ki0Y4KsH-jMO9qK7hu6SQGQCLcB/s640/exteriorbeforeandafter.jpg" title="Porch and Garage Addition, Dark Blue Siding, Wrap Around Porch" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
I zoomed through 10 months of work, if you have any questions, just leave them in the comments below. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-57738419694082397132016-07-24T18:05:00.002-07:002016-07-24T18:05:35.663-07:00Phase 2 Coming at You!A looooooong long time ago, we had this crazy idea to buy a house and fix it up. <br />
<br />
We finished up Phase 1 in December 2013. We had gutted our home to the studs and built it back from there. But there is still so much more work to do. After our two year "break" from hard core renovating, Michael and I are ready to jump back on the saddle and slap this horse on the behind and giddy up!<br />
<br />
It's time for Phase 2: the garage and mudroom.<br />
<br />
To refresh your memory, here is what we started with:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WSH4z3rkmd4/UY0Y0uwGPMI/AAAAAAAAADY/AGrYatwRvdEUYXhGIXJlGWRBezTMXb7PQCKgB/s1600/DSC_1125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WSH4z3rkmd4/UY0Y0uwGPMI/AAAAAAAAADY/AGrYatwRvdEUYXhGIXJlGWRBezTMXb7PQCKgB/s640/DSC_1125.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So for the last two years now, ever since we re-sided our house, our home has looked like it had a great big white appendage sticking out of it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8sD-qBLZEc/V32udwA8RlI/AAAAAAABBjk/0kceQEPAZQwbXukpH0Dc7sfWcw-H-_8FACLcB/s1600/DSC_0676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8sD-qBLZEc/V32udwA8RlI/AAAAAAABBjk/0kceQEPAZQwbXukpH0Dc7sfWcw-H-_8FACLcB/s640/DSC_0676.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SfkAdZzOX5c/V32o-WqVX4I/AAAAAAABBi8/vCQnkcsKJa0x22nX6_VBf0JGz25iU-rFQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SfkAdZzOX5c/V32o-WqVX4I/AAAAAAABBi8/vCQnkcsKJa0x22nX6_VBf0JGz25iU-rFQCLcB/s640/DSC_0668.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t4DDbcoh5Us/V32ovJGzGsI/AAAAAAABBi0/L9_5CPXUj38PqcqhD5IuirZ9gCik5szzgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t4DDbcoh5Us/V32ovJGzGsI/AAAAAAABBi0/L9_5CPXUj38PqcqhD5IuirZ9gCik5szzgCLcB/s640/DSC_0669.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
We also left part of the front of our re-sided house undone because we were originally planning to build a porch onto the house last spring. Instead, we had a baby. :-) So now, here we are, two years later... white garage, blue house, wonkey gutters and soffits..... and super cute baby! <i>So I'm still calling that a win, for sure! </i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0WjOg1cH3Y/V32pnfrfInI/AAAAAAABBjg/8WZDrmRSvIoTnrEHttR3DRuuE0_UpGAMwCKgB/s1600/DSC_0677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0WjOg1cH3Y/V32pnfrfInI/AAAAAAABBjg/8WZDrmRSvIoTnrEHttR3DRuuE0_UpGAMwCKgB/s640/DSC_0677.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I haven't really talked much about it here on the blog because I've been waiting until we had more of a plan set. <br />
<br />
So here's the plan: <br />
<b>1. Build a three car garage onto the front of our home. <i> </i></b><br />
We have gotten a lot of advice from various people who have recommended that we go big... and that we won't regret it! It is also going to have a second floor with plenty of room for one bedroom and lots-o-storage.<br />
<br />
Here is are the plans for the garage. It will connect to the house on the right through the mudroom. <br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lVJJvCeoV1o/VxGdVpuYP9I/AAAAAAABBX0/Of-z-cyf0ewhePdlnBxrd1LMVQVHFuVLACLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-15%2Bat%2B9.52.19%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lVJJvCeoV1o/VxGdVpuYP9I/AAAAAAABBX0/Of-z-cyf0ewhePdlnBxrd1LMVQVHFuVLACLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-15%2Bat%2B9.52.19%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a><br />
And yes, my husband is awesome and drafted this whole thing out on Cad. And yes, he measured everything out that we plan to store in the garage and worked it into the plan.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>2. Tear down the current garage and build the mudroom, powder room, and laundry room.</b><br />
This
space is going to be so important for us as a family. Currently, when
people are over, the only suitable bathroom to offer guests is in our
master bathroom. It doesn't bother us, but it does make some people
feel weird having to go into our room to get to the bathroom. Further, having a mudroom will mean having coat
storage (which we currently do not have) and a floor that will act as a
more durable place to track mud and dirt onto - instead of my pretty hardwood
floors!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6q4dm_NPRY/VxGdVg2MSrI/AAAAAAABBX4/Oj6uIXq5FA4A43ParHL8Zzxn10jXCrj-QCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-15%2Bat%2B9.51.56%2BPM.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6q4dm_NPRY/VxGdVg2MSrI/AAAAAAABBX4/Oj6uIXq5FA4A43ParHL8Zzxn10jXCrj-QCLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-15%2Bat%2B9.51.56%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a>Originally we were not planning to build a laundry room in this space. But the more I thought about it, the more I felt like we would regret it later if we didn't make it happen now. I have always done laundry in a basement, so I wasn't really against our previous plans of keeping the laundry in the basement. But then I had a baby and our laundry increased substantially. And it is only going to increase as more babies come. And these babies are going to be on the second floor of the house. So, I'm sure you can see how having laundry on the main level might be nice. Additionally, we are adding a very large storage closet, which I'm SO
excited about. When we renovated, we eliminated a lot of small closets
in order to make more space for our master suite. I don't regret that
decision but it has left us with very little closet space on the first
floor. This closet will make up for it! It will be large enough to act
as a broom closet/pantry. I can't wait!!!<br />
<br />
<b>2. Build a second level above the garage and mudroom.</b><br />
We decided to add a second level to the garage, you know, because, why not?! The second floor of our home currently is unfinished space. Eventually, with this addition, the second floor will include 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a playroom/family room above the main house. Then, above the mudroom and garage, there will be an additional 1 bedroom and large storage room. The area above the mudroom will be a hallway but I think it will actually be large enough to give it more of a function than just a hallway. I'll figure that out later. But what I do know is that it will have a laundry shoot from the 2nd floor to the laundry room. Score!<br />
<br />
The picture below is of our plans for the space above the mudroom and the garage. The doorway all the way to the right leads to the space above the main house. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JBjtCJaE0vk/Vxgim69l_EI/AAAAAAABBaI/P9WgxdZlOZk4hO_iA5u3bFuf7q5LpCeWwCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-20%2Bat%2B8.43.08%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JBjtCJaE0vk/Vxgim69l_EI/AAAAAAABBaI/P9WgxdZlOZk4hO_iA5u3bFuf7q5LpCeWwCLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-20%2Bat%2B8.43.08%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
You may also notice that there is a stairway from the garage up into that storage area. We think that stairs will be a nice feature for the future to allow easy access to the storage above the garage.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>4. Re-Roof the entire home.</b><br />
Our roof is over 20 years old and shingles are starting to blow off. Since we will need to roof the new addition, it seems like the obvious time to reroof the whole house. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YRp34Wm4GB0/V32pavusSaI/AAAAAAABBjI/3G7uVcnjWwsFoyE9LPLOn23tTw8yiCAsgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0676.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YRp34Wm4GB0/V32pavusSaI/AAAAAAABBjI/3G7uVcnjWwsFoyE9LPLOn23tTw8yiCAsgCLcB/s640/DSC_0676.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>5. Landscaping</b><br />
Michael and I have done very little in the way of landscaping, unless you count cutting down lots of Walnut trees, then we have been VERY active! We wanted to wait until after the garage is added before we put any time, energy, and money into landscaping. <b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>6. Postpone the front porch addition</b><br />
Super sad, but we decided that this addition really was not going to gain us enough functionally to have it so high up on the priority list. So now, the porch will likely come after everything else we'd like to do (finishing the 2nd floor and basement). <br />
<br />
Michael and I started demo by taking off the remaining siding a couple weekends ago. And now, excavation and foundation work to started this week. EEEK! So excited!<br />
<br />
I posted a video of the garage tear down on Instagram if you are interested!<br />
<br />
Can't wait to share more about the details and process as we go along!<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-19980323883549125382016-06-21T17:34:00.000-07:002016-06-21T17:34:44.255-07:00Honest Abe Turns 1!I'm back with a little update! My baby turned one year old a few weekends ago. And I. Can't. Believe. It.<br />
<br />
I
never really understood why moms would cry when their
babies turned one. But now I get it. My baby is a toddler and it
happened all so fast. In a flash we sped through breastfeeding, tummy
time, burp cloths, and bottles. And now, all that is boxed up as sweet
little memories of a year gone by.<br />
<br />
Shortly
after we decided on the name Abraham, I came up with the idea to throw him
an <i>Abraham Lincoln</i> themed first birthday. Sure he wasn't even
born yet, but that's not too early to start planning his first birthday
is it? (don't answer that)<br />
<br />
We didn't name Abe after the
former president but we didn't mind making the connection with one of
the greatest presidents this country has ever seen.<br />
<br />
A couple months before the big day, I came up with the invitation. And it is my favorite.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1QSInymBi-s/V1_0ortuz6I/AAAAAAABBg8/lByBdMWFfvEgYq-XFfysXlLjnu6k_9W7ACLcB/s1600/Emancipation_Proclamation%2BInvite3private.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1QSInymBi-s/V1_0ortuz6I/AAAAAAABBg8/lByBdMWFfvEgYq-XFfysXlLjnu6k_9W7ACLcB/s640/Emancipation_Proclamation%2BInvite3private.jpg" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday" width="468" /></a></div>
I
created the invite by downloading the background image and then
layering a
neutral backdrop on top in order for me to add the party details. I had
some fun with the wording by looking at the Gettysburg Address for
inspiration. I had them printed onto cardstock at staples.<br />
<br />
Then I focused on the
decorations. I wanted to incorporate a patriotic, red, white, and blue
theme. I also added a bit of copper to keep it from feeling like a 4th of July party.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mPGGtMumU4g/V1of_bpogaI/AAAAAAABBcs/K2cdPs4cJqcLHXdFTeDIwW_1tZExc4p6ACLcB/s1600/DSC_0667.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" border="0" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mPGGtMumU4g/V1of_bpogaI/AAAAAAABBcs/K2cdPs4cJqcLHXdFTeDIwW_1tZExc4p6ACLcB/s640/DSC_0667.JPG" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
So
I bought these fun red, white, and blue fans and secured a print out of a copper penny
onto one of the fans. It was a super windy day so we secured them to the siding using <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Thermoweb-Adhesive-8-Inch--64-Inch-300-Pack/dp/B000XAOKPS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1465953232&sr=8-2&keywords=zots">Zots</a>. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QhwKjwXmtCE/V1ogHynbHOI/AAAAAAABBc0/1wI_TEPfhYISPIJiAI_VmrXP4r_FzPL9wCLcB/s1600/DSC_0671.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QhwKjwXmtCE/V1ogHynbHOI/AAAAAAABBc0/1wI_TEPfhYISPIJiAI_VmrXP4r_FzPL9wCLcB/s640/DSC_0671.jpg" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" width="424" /></a></div>
Meijer was selling these fun
political napkins and I couldn't resist. Abraham Lincoln was a part of
the republican party but I did buy one package of the democratic napkins
so everyone would feel represented.<br />
<br />
We used cute little baskets with red, white, and blue liners instead of paper plates. Fun!<br />
<br />
Another way I incorporated Abe Lincoln was by creating names for some of the food.<br />
<br />
For example:<br />
<br />
Abra-Hamburgers<br />
Lincoln Log Dogs <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_mxExHbrOTI/V1of3L3vBDI/AAAAAAABBcg/iNQyF0E75EQTnnY09-by9Jt9A4W5vJXqQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0665.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" border="0" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_mxExHbrOTI/V1of3L3vBDI/AAAAAAABBcg/iNQyF0E75EQTnnY09-by9Jt9A4W5vJXqQCLcB/s640/DSC_0665.JPG" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Lemon-Abe <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p-nXRhS4abo/V1ofUCF-KjI/AAAAAAABBcA/lHfebrg83CYutv2UrdmZiCVqP9TcIZdxgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0654.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p-nXRhS4abo/V1ofUCF-KjI/AAAAAAABBcA/lHfebrg83CYutv2UrdmZiCVqP9TcIZdxgCLcB/s640/DSC_0654.jpg" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" width="424" /></a> </div>
We also served Corn on the cob (Abe's Ears), fruit salad, pasta salad, and chips.<br />
<br />
I
had made cookies in the shape of Abe Lincoln's hat that I was planning
to serve too, but I ended up running out of time to decorate them before the party.
Michael suggested I set them out anyway and let people decorate their own.
Major brownie points for the hubby for that idea! MAJOR!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O8tor7F5rbk/V1ofeyK42-I/AAAAAAABBcQ/a6bOpshMP5wQxAi_MC9lQBS5tecVskbgwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0645.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O8tor7F5rbk/V1ofeyK42-I/AAAAAAABBcQ/a6bOpshMP5wQxAi_MC9lQBS5tecVskbgwCLcB/s640/DSC_0645.JPG" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" width="640" /></a></div>
It was fun to have a little
activity for people to participate in while we waited to eat.<br />
Not to mention.....cookies as appetizers = winning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w-oeZ3nMCyg/V1_4tm5iR0I/AAAAAAABBhI/Y64zj3HxNiUSpaJIHJRAbGdPmJmAXYx-gCLcB/s1600/DSC_0660.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w-oeZ3nMCyg/V1_4tm5iR0I/AAAAAAABBhI/Y64zj3HxNiUSpaJIHJRAbGdPmJmAXYx-gCLcB/s640/DSC_0660.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
After eating we opened gifts.<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJXN4zg2Kp4/V1ogSVl7LDI/AAAAAAABBdA/oLKGXgbBLEsHwVm0z_zoA_pEinuU80R0QCLcB/s1600/DSC_0682.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJXN4zg2Kp4/V1ogSVl7LDI/AAAAAAABBdA/oLKGXgbBLEsHwVm0z_zoA_pEinuU80R0QCLcB/s640/DSC_0682.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Michael
and I talked about different ideas of what we could get Abe for his
birthday and we finally landed on the perfect idea. A few years
ago we were given a couple of <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2014/07/weather-proofing-adirondacks.html">wooden Adirondack chairs that I refinished</a>.
We have them sitting out in front of our house facing the river and we
really enjoy using them. So we decided to get one just Abe's size and engrave
his name on it. We bought <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Little-Colorado-Childs-Adirondack-Unfinished/dp/B003KVKX1W">this chair on Amazon</a>, burned his name onto the front, and stained it to match.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-klI_vdbXYNc/V2BE_UQy-aI/AAAAAAABBhc/uDHsn_YKyWAFilX3QMKrxSQjqUiI_pb5gCLcB/s1600/DSC_0818.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, gift" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-klI_vdbXYNc/V2BE_UQy-aI/AAAAAAABBhc/uDHsn_YKyWAFilX3QMKrxSQjqUiI_pb5gCLcB/s640/DSC_0818.jpg" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, gift" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
And
yes, his onesie does have a shade-wearing Abe Lincoln on it. I made the
onesie using my silhouette machine and some heat transfer paper. The
suspenders I found last minute at Meijer and the shorts I bought from a
secondhand store. </div>
<br />
While opening gifts, we played a little trivia game. In between each gift we had a
little trivia game that we played to keep the adults interested. I
called it "Presidents Say What?" First prize took home <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lincoln-Daniel-Day-Lewis/dp/B009AMANBA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1465927386&sr=8-2&keywords=lincoln+movie">Lincoln</a>,
the movie released in 2012, staring Daniel Day-Lewis (it's SO good if
you haven't seen it!) and second prize was a
roll of pennies. :-)<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRpyaM5iNIo/V2Bu1isG9VI/AAAAAAABBiM/tMrHB7yvUh8CRk8gQyV9-vCosUC3h9AcACLcB/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, games" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRpyaM5iNIo/V2Bu1isG9VI/AAAAAAABBiM/tMrHB7yvUh8CRk8gQyV9-vCosUC3h9AcACLcB/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, games" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
And before it was smash cake time, we had to do a little photo op with our little Abe.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3cwYRFAEOUU/V1ogm_wrzHI/AAAAAAABBdc/VabhwPhYG4k4jmFXqJq-EhkPaPwH57WBQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0835.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, costume" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3cwYRFAEOUU/V1ogm_wrzHI/AAAAAAABBdc/VabhwPhYG4k4jmFXqJq-EhkPaPwH57WBQCLcB/s640/DSC_0835.JPG" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, costume" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
It
lasted all of 40 seconds but it was just enough time to get this
picture. <br />
<br />
And finally, it was time for cake.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-jgP012g2c/V1ogxHhnkmI/AAAAAAABBdo/tz8L5Qf9jh8MIVsGvzEix7G7OCT_DpeyACLcB/s1600/DSC_0838.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" border="0" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-jgP012g2c/V1ogxHhnkmI/AAAAAAABBdo/tz8L5Qf9jh8MIVsGvzEix7G7OCT_DpeyACLcB/s640/DSC_0838.JPG" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I found this fun red, white, and blue cake mix at Meijer. <i>This birthday party was not necessarily brought to you by Meijer... but it might as well have been. </i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" class="irc_mi ifqlVyQvIBs0-pQOPx8XEepE" height="400" src="https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/5roAAOSwsN9XBTZs/s-l300.jpg" style="margin-top: 64px;" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" width="314" /></div>
<br />
I
made a two layer cake and covered it with white frosting with star
spangled sprinkles on top. I made a copper "1" for the top of the cake as a nod to
the penny and his first birthday. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tCbSC3DKss/V1ofZHgwqiI/AAAAAAABBcE/8_TJKmVdgjcLxg8n2webInN-c3Q7mJd7ACLcB/s1600/DSC_0650.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, cake" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tCbSC3DKss/V1ofZHgwqiI/AAAAAAABBcE/8_TJKmVdgjcLxg8n2webInN-c3Q7mJd7ACLcB/s640/DSC_0650.jpg" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, cake" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
It took him a while to get into it.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-skEu8FGRLa0/V1og5BWK_bI/AAAAAAABBdw/MGznHwj7OUUdz7ys8x5Y4k7-5nzhKiYqACLcB/s1600/DSC_0847.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, smash cake" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-skEu8FGRLa0/V1og5BWK_bI/AAAAAAABBdw/MGznHwj7OUUdz7ys8x5Y4k7-5nzhKiYqACLcB/s640/DSC_0847.jpg" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, smash cake" width="424" /></a><span style="color: #0000ee;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #444444;">But </span><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #444444;">he finally <span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #444444;">dove in</span> <span style="color: #444444;">once
we gave him a fork to hold. He didn't use the fork, but he liked
holding it and digging into the cake with his hands and face. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VVozg0GtkzU/V2Bu6V1cdCI/AAAAAAABBiU/v1BzpuzZ8dsUq-kCZ1l2WWlY-c21RkMWgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4376.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, smash cake" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VVozg0GtkzU/V2Bu6V1cdCI/AAAAAAABBiU/v1BzpuzZ8dsUq-kCZ1l2WWlY-c21RkMWgCLcB/s640/IMG_4376.jpg" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, smash cake" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"> </span></span><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-liVH3Wr1jow/V1og8Du0yCI/AAAAAAABBd4/Zpu7DlE81uEHZ00mmYCYJttJOvoJDAnbgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0896.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, smash cake" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-liVH3Wr1jow/V1og8Du0yCI/AAAAAAABBd4/Zpu7DlE81uEHZ00mmYCYJttJOvoJDAnbgCLcB/s640/DSC_0896.JPG" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue, smash cake" width="456" /></a></span></span></div>
<br />
The
party went by in a flash, just like his first year. But we tried to
enjoy every minute. We are so thankful for all the family that helped
with the party and all those who came to celebrate with us. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uROZn7SuUtg/V2BMTra049I/AAAAAAABBh4/meF8IadWmvkMCX8nZN7VSbjKHxZrBq1jwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4379.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uROZn7SuUtg/V2BMTra049I/AAAAAAABBh4/meF8IadWmvkMCX8nZN7VSbjKHxZrBq1jwCLcB/s640/IMG_4379.JPG" title="Abraham Lincoln Party, first birthday, patriotic, red, white, and blue" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Birthday Abraham Mark. We love you so much! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-75042322562006830002016-03-13T06:14:00.001-07:002016-03-13T06:19:24.103-07:00A "Wild" Bridal ShowerThis last weekend, one of my very best friends married a wonderful southern gentleman. And a little over a month ago, we threw her a shower. They only got engaged right before Christmas, and with a 3 month engagement, it didn't give us long to pull together a shower in celebration.<br />
<br />
But.... I've planned a shower or two in my day, and I wasn't concerned.<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
The Theme: <i>"Let's Bring Out Lindsey's</i> <i><b>Wild Side"</b></i></h4>
<h4>
<i><span style="color: #999999;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></i></h4>
<h4>
<i><span style="color: #999999;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Note: Thanks to<span style="color: #666666;"><u> <a href="http://bethwilsonphotography.com/index.php?/">Beth Wilson</a></u></span> for photographing the festivities. </span></span><b><i> </i></b></i></h4>
<br />
It's been a tradition within our college friend group to throw a "personal shower" for each other, as opposed to a traditional bridal shower. So that's what we did! With her love for giraffes in mind, we threw her a simple shower with a hint of wild animal. <i> <b> </b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bxz7mr2vdY8/Vt4rGi3K1EI/AAAAAAABAbw/6HYufee6wUE/s1600/IMG-6811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Teal, Yellow, Tan Bridal Shower. Classy Animal Theme Bridal Shower. " border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bxz7mr2vdY8/Vt4rGi3K1EI/AAAAAAABAbw/6HYufee6wUE/s640/IMG-6811.jpg" title="Teal, Yellow, Tan Bridal Shower. Classy Animal Theme Bridal Shower. " width="640" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lWkQf3wPKi4/Vt4qwvsvEfI/AAAAAAABAbo/Ahlwm_3PL4E/s1600/IMG-6798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Wild Cake Topper" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lWkQf3wPKi4/Vt4qwvsvEfI/AAAAAAABAbo/Ahlwm_3PL4E/s640/IMG-6798.jpg" title="Wild Cake Topper" width="640" /></a></b></div>
<b></b><br />
<b><b><span style="font-weight: normal;">For refreshments, we served the bride's favorite trail mix, chocolate covered strawberries, veggies and dip, popcorn, and cake. Atop the cake (which was incredibly delicious thanks to my talented friend Kara!), I used my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Silhouette-Cameo-Electronic-Cutting-Machine/dp/B00NAX7H8M/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1457873905&sr=8-14&keywords=silhouette+cameo+ii+bundle"><b>S</b>ilhouette <b>C</b>ameo</a> to make a "wild" statement that echoed the theme. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Lemonade to drink. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Leopard print s</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">traws, of course!</span></b></b><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><b><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hCXaRodtoos/Vt4rB8CCH4I/AAAAAAABAbs/vYucaBceF14/s1600/IMG-6808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Teal, Yellow, Tan Bridal Shower. Classy Animal Theme Bridal Shower. " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hCXaRodtoos/Vt4rB8CCH4I/AAAAAAABAbs/vYucaBceF14/s640/IMG-6808.jpg" title="Teal, Yellow, Tan Bridal Shower. Classy Animal Theme Bridal Shower. " width="426" /></a></b></u></div>
<u><b><br /></b></u>
The yellow, tan, and teal color theme came from the bride's love of teal and giraffes. <br />
<br />
The Activities:<br />
One of my most favorite things at showers is to go around the circle and share how you know the bride and one thing you appreciate about her. This was one of the most meaningful moments of the shower that I received as a bride and I wanted to give that to Lindsey. <br />
<br />
Pass the tissues<span style="color: #0000ee;"> <span style="color: #666666;">please!</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxDVQ9rRFEg/Vt4waHe7fpI/AAAAAAABAcQ/jo5GwiB1qwc/s1600/IMG-6832.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxDVQ9rRFEg/Vt4waHe7fpI/AAAAAAABAcQ/jo5GwiB1qwc/s640/IMG-6832.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></u></div>
<br />
To lighten the mood and bring out our guest's "wild side", we played a silly game of ring toss. It's a bit of a different take on ring toss.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZJW9OT77Xc/Vt4vLdp0L7I/AAAAAAABAcA/VZvTcI-sW5E/s1600/IMG-6856.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ring Toss Bridal Shower Game" border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZJW9OT77Xc/Vt4vLdp0L7I/AAAAAAABAcA/VZvTcI-sW5E/s640/IMG-6856.jpg" title="Ring Toss Bridal Shower Game" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I made these little giraffe party hats and, with a partner, you had to throw a number of ropes around the neck of the giraffe.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B753vp6lez4/Vt4wX5Mbo9I/AAAAAAABAcM/b7-uJI-Qoak/s1600/IMG-6871.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giraffe Party Hats" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B753vp6lez4/Vt4wX5Mbo9I/AAAAAAABAcM/b7-uJI-Qoak/s640/IMG-6871.jpg" title="Giraffe Party Hats" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The hats were a hit. :-) <br />
<br />
We also always play a "newlywed" type game where the bride has to guess how the groom answered a series of questions. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UQG5f4G2eqc/Vt4wTpr3_LI/AAAAAAABAcI/GJH3pj_96J4/s1600/IMG-6878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UQG5f4G2eqc/Vt4wTpr3_LI/AAAAAAABAcI/GJH3pj_96J4/s640/IMG-6878.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
At my own shower, I remember being so disappointing in how poorly I did guessing Michael's answers.<br />
I thought:<br />
"Do I even know this guy?!" <i>I did. </i><br />
<i>"What if we get married and I realize we're all wrong for each other?!"</i> We're not.<br />
<i>"What even is his favorite season?!"</i> It's spring.<br />
<br />
We also prayed together, which is another of my favorite tradition of these showers (I have a lot of favorites....a.k.a. showers are my favorite). We prayed for the bride, the groom, and their marriage. We prayed for their wedding, their newlywed phase, and their future. We prayed they would grow, and forgive, and continue to seek the Lord through it all.<br />
<br />
And of course, at the end of the shower, Michael brought the baby so he could be passed around and loved on! And also of course, we had to make him wear the hat! :-)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9iMVpKdZZ4k/Vt42pRHS-QI/AAAAAAABAck/rr3gzaj80k4/s1600/IMG-6904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giraffe Party Hats" border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9iMVpKdZZ4k/Vt42pRHS-QI/AAAAAAABAck/rr3gzaj80k4/s640/IMG-6904.jpg" title="Giraffe Party Hats" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f3S7tY_7o60/Vt421E5OI7I/AAAAAAABAcs/cOoIqyvINBk/s1600/IMG-6908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giraffe Party Hats" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f3S7tY_7o60/Vt421E5OI7I/AAAAAAABAcs/cOoIqyvINBk/s640/IMG-6908.jpg" title="Giraffe Party Hats" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A4CR6psX6Vw/Vt42roh9goI/AAAAAAABAco/oii24w4sQQU/s1600/IMG-6910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giraffe Party Hats" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A4CR6psX6Vw/Vt42roh9goI/AAAAAAABAco/oii24w4sQQU/s640/IMG-6910.jpg" title="Giraffe Party Hats" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Wilson! We are so happy that the Lord has brought your lives together! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6dgsP1hBpMY/Vt43xviIkqI/AAAAAAABAc8/9t76GwQ9rck/s1600/12798853_10208479090353129_3331660223347820715_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6dgsP1hBpMY/Vt43xviIkqI/AAAAAAABAc8/9t76GwQ9rck/s320/12798853_10208479090353129_3331660223347820715_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-20692609387823213792016-02-15T20:00:00.002-08:002016-03-20T17:37:45.784-07:00Registering For Baby- My Reviews and Recommendations<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8oFywk_Cbg/VsKe0VnkPMI/AAAAAAABAR4/Xm0oFopZx30/s1600/baby%2Bregistry%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8oFywk_Cbg/VsKe0VnkPMI/AAAAAAABAR4/Xm0oFopZx30/s640/baby%2Bregistry%2B.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
Registering. Love it or hate it, registering has become an expected part of getting married and having babies. Registering for our wedding was fun and exciting for me. Plates, flatware, vases, towels, coasters... hand me that scanner, I'm all over this! But when it came time to register for baby stuff, things felt a bit more overwhelming. <br />
<br />
It can be pretty intimidating (especially at stores like Babies R Us or Buy Buy Baby) walking in and seeing a billion and a half baby items stacked to the ceiling. We did a minimal amount of research about strollers and car seats and monitors before going in to register. That helped a little but our registry looked vastly different from the time we began the process until our first shower. And that's ok! Don't be afraid to change your registry as time goes on! It's not set in stone!<br />
<br />
<i>Public Service Announcement Before You Register: Go well fed. That's what some of our friends told us to do and that was some very wise advice. A hangry pregnant lady, or a hangry husband for that matter, is no fun to register with. </i><br />
<br />
Now that we are 9 months into this new life with a baby I thought I would share a little bit about the things we got - reviews and recommendations. I tried to highlight the most important, loved, and used items. I also made note of things that were maybe not as useful - things we could probably have done without. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
- Transportation -</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0fOcXK6d5_k/VsKJPxGbLRI/AAAAAAABARY/FnNK_ITQ40E/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-02-15%2Bat%2B9.27.46%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0fOcXK6d5_k/VsKJPxGbLRI/AAAAAAABARY/FnNK_ITQ40E/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-02-15%2Bat%2B9.27.46%2BPM.png" width="372" /></a></div>
<h3>
Stroller</h3>
We had such a hard time picking out a stroller. Literally, I think we had registered for about 7 different ones before we decided on which one we wanted. My mom finally gave up and just gave us a gift card because we kept changing our minds ;-) We decided on the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/graco-pace-click-connect-stroller/-/A-16721766">Graco Pace</a>. We thought about registering for a jogging stroller, but realized we probably wouldn’t use it for jogging :-) We did like the maneuverability of a three wheeled stroller vs four. We have been very happy with it. It’s easy to set up, it clicks in with our car seat, it's fairly lightweight, and has ample storage. We like that it has two cup holders and space for stashing keys/cell phones.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="irc_mi" src="http://scene7.targetimg1.com/is/image/Target/14779447?wid=1000&hei=1000" height="320" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /></div>
<h3>
Car Seat </h3>
Another agonizing choice. We looked on Consumer
Reports, which ranks the Chicco as the best car seat. We ended up going
with Graco due to a rather sizable price difference…especially if you
factor in the cost of strollers (most brands usually will allow the car
seat to click into the stroller- you typically want the same brand due
to that fact). I know people that have Chicco strollers and car seats
and love them. We have the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/graco-snugride-30-click-connect-infant-car-seat/-/A-16450206#prodSlot=medium_1_13&term=graco+click+connect">Graco Snugride 30</a>
that clicks into our Graco Pace. The Snugride 30 also scored well on Consumer Reports, just not as well as Chicco. We like it just fine. No
major complaints. We also bought a <a href="http://www.target.com/p/brica-baby-in-sight-soft-touch-auto-mirror-for-in-car-safety-gray/-/A-14295268#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=car+mirror+baby">mirror</a>
to hang in the car so that you can see what your baby is doing. I LOVE being able to peek back at him to see if he is sleeping, or just to see his cute
little face! :-) And we have an <a href="http://www.target.com/p/brica-baby-in-sight-soft-touch-auto-mirror-for-in-car-safety-gray/-/A-14295268#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=car+mirror+baby">extra base</a> for the car seat so that we can easily transport Mr. Abe in either of our cars. We just recently switched him to a convertible car seat (<a href="http://www.target.com/p/graco-contender65-convertible-car-seat/-/A-18823126?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Baby%2BShopping&adgroup=SC_Baby&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9016241&gclid=Cj0KEQiAsP-2BRCFl4Lb2NTJttEBEiQAmj2tbSYdfeez_UEDKTNPXbueBmYK5JMlkXCvalPsb-gcJcMaAk-D8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds">Graco Contender65</a>) and have been very happy with it thus far. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="irc_mi" src="http://scene7.targetimg1.com/is/image/Target/14603159?wid=480&hei=480" height="320" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /></div>
<h3>
Umbrella Stroller</h3>
An <a href="http://www.target.com/p/cosco-umbrella-stroller-shark/-/A-14603159#prodSlot=medium_1_4&term=umbrella+stroller">umbrella stroller</a> is great to have since its extremely light weight and stores easily. We were gifted the cutest little shark umbrella stroller. (Side note: as cute as this particular stroller is, it's not super durable. The wheels feel a bit flimsy to me so I don't see it lasting for too many years of use.) Abe and I went trick-or-treating downtown with my sister and her kids. I dressed him up like a pumpkin and I put him in his little shark umbrella stroller. I told people "He's a shark who ate a pumpkin!" He was quite the crowd-pleaser! <i>Can you believe that I don't have a picture?! #momfail</i><br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Baby Carrier</h3>
When Abram was a newborn I got a <a href="http://www.target.com/p/boba-wrap-classic-baby-carrier/-/A-14634296?registryId=e6RxDs6tBK7alndt-td8NA&regTitle=Laura%20&%20Michael%27s&regMode=REGST&rType=R&itemLineNum=99&reqQty=1&regPurQty=0&regPage=RMI&preSelFlag=1&cr=true">Boba Wrap</a> which I really liked for going on walks, doing stuff around the house, grocery shopping. It's especially nice for when they are really little and can’t support their head. We also were given the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/babybjorn-baby-carrier-original-black/-/A-10118021#prodSlot=medium_1_6&term=baby+bjorn">Baby Bjorn</a> and we use that a lot now that he is older and can support his head. He loves, and always has, being put in a carrier. And it’s nice for us too! There are tons of different types of baby carriers out there. But for us, having these two different types worked well. <br />
<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
- Nutrition/Eating -</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="irc_mi" src="http://www.toysrus.com/graphics/product_images/pTRU1-17431821dt.jpg" height="320" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
High Chair </h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We have the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/chicco-polly-high-chair/-/A-46772807?lnk=rec%7Cpdp%7Cviewed_bought%7Cpdph1">Chicco Polly High Chair</a>
and we don’t really love it. However, we aren’t convinced that we
would love any high chair. I think they just tend to be a little
cumbersome. A feature that I really like about it, that I’m guessing is
standard, is that you can recline the back. Sometimes I will finish
feeding him food and then it’s nice to recline him and give him some of
his bottle. But when you do recline the back and when you move the tray in and
out, I feel like it is difficult to get them locked into the next
setting. I remember seeing some highchairs that had a storage net for bibs on the
back of the high chair. I wish ours had that. I do like that we
can lift off the tray cover and wash that versus having to take off the
whole tray. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="irc_mi" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71EC5geqRGL._SY355_.jpg" height="355" style="margin-top: 36px;" width="355" /></div>
<h3>
<a href="http://www.target.com/p/bumbo-floor-seat-assorted-colors/-/A-14243886#prodSlot=medium_1_2&term=bumbo">Bumbo</a> </h3>
We
opted to not get a bumbo because it doesn’t seem like it would be super
useful for a significant amount of time. Instead we registered for the
<a href="http://www.target.com/p/ingenuity-baby-base-2-in-1-booster-seat-aqua/-/A-14966215?registryId=e6RxDs6tBK7alndt-td8NA&regTitle=Laura%20%26%20Michael%27s&regMode=REGST&rType=R&itemLineNum=42&reqQty=1&regPurQty=1&regPage=RMI&preSelFlag=1&cr=true">Ingenuity 2 in 1 booster seat</a>
. It’s great because it has an insert that acts as a bumbo when they
are little, or you can take the insert out and use it as a booster seat
when they get bigger. We like to take it with us when we travel. It
has a built in tray too that fits into the base when you aren't using
it. Which, again, makes it easy to travel with. <br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Pump</h3>
It is absolutely imperative (at least in my
opinion) to get a good quality pump. Depending on your insurance, it
will likely cover the cost of the entire pump. I was worried
about the quality of pump I would qualify for but it turns out that the
<a href="http://www.target.com/p/medela-pump-in-style-advanced-breast-pump-on-the-go-tote/-/A-10762141#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=medela+pump+in+style+advanced">Medela Pump in style advanced</a> is one of the best. <i>Just an FYI, insurance covered the pump and basic accessories, but not a storage/travel bag -which you will definitely want.</i>
Having a quality pump has been essential for me. I nursed Abram for 3
months but would pump about once a day (usually in the morning) to
relieve any engorgement and to encourage supply. I was still having a
fare amount of pain with breastfeeding so I switched to pumping
exclusively a little after 3 months and have been doing that ever
since. I know that if I didn’t have a good pump I would have stopped
long ago and switched to formula. Also, even if you just plan to pump
at work, I highly recommend getting a <a href="http://www.target.com/p/lansinoh-simple-wishes-hands-free-breast-pump-bustier/-/A-12310428#prodSlot=medium_1_5&term=hands+free+breast">handsfree bra for pumping</a>. It makes the process a lot less of an annoyance.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<a href="http://www.target.com/p/boppy-bare-naked-nursing-pillow-white/-/A-10463711#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=boppy">Boppy</a> </h3>
I
know there are probably better, more specifically made, pillows for
nursing, but this is what I used. It’s also nice for when they are just
starting to sit. We used it a lot to prevent him from falling back and
hitting his head. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Bottles</h3>
We have about 15 bottles (mainly 6oz and some 9oz) which is great. My sister gave us all of hers and she used <a href="http://www.target.com/p/playtex-ventaire-wide-bottle-system-9-oz-3-pack/-/A-596964#prodSlot=medium_1_3&term=playtex+ventaire">Playtex VentAire</a>.
We have no complaints about them, although, we haven’t really used
anything else. I also have heard very good things about Dr. Brown
bottles. I’ve heard that those really help prevent excessive spit up.
As far as cleaning bottles go, we bought a bottle brush without a sponge
(gross!) and just use a normal drying pad to dry them on. No need for a
special drying rack just for bottles… at least we didn’t think so. We
have slow, medium, and fast nipples but you may not need the medium or
fast nipples if you stick with nursing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i01.hsncdn.com/is/image/HomeShoppingNetwork/prodfull/baby-bullet-21-piece-baby-food-system-with-cookbook-d-20110715032727003%7E140711.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="irc_mi" src="http://i01.hsncdn.com/is/image/HomeShoppingNetwork/prodfull/baby-bullet-21-piece-baby-food-system-with-cookbook-d-20110715032727003%7E140711.jpg" height="320" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
Baby Bullet</h3>
Another thing my sister passed on to me was their <a href="http://www.target.com/p/baby-bullet-by-magic-bullet-complete-baby-food-prep-system/-/A-13474629#prodSlot=medium_1_2&term=baby+bullet">baby bullet</a>
for making baby food. Do you need a baby bullet specifically if
you want to make your own baby food? No, you could use any food
processor or blender. But since I was given one for free, that's what
we use. It works really well, creating smooth purees for my little
babe. I don't particularly care for the plastic individual food storage
containers. They break easily. My preference is to freeze food in s<a href="http://www.target.com/p/nuk-flexible-freezer-tray-lid/-/A-14014886?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Baby%2BShopping&adgroup=SC_Baby_Top+Performers&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9016241&gclid=Cj0KEQjwlLm3BRDjnML3h9ic_vkBEiQABa5oea7ot6ZBIp3U3ki0p14FqW2mw6xK7kXIGKUY5KRZ9UYaApDu8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds">ilicone baby food trays</a>
and then transfer them into big freezer bags. I also use ice cube
trays for freezing food. The bullet also comes with a helpful book with recipes and
recommendations as to when to introduce certain foods. But you can find
that information easily online. Making my own baby food has become
something I really enjoy doing. It's pretty easy, you save tons of
money, and you know exactly what your baby is eating. I think it sounds
much more impressive than it actually is. :-) <br />
<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
- Play Time -</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
</h2>
<h3>
Swing</h3>
Abram loved his swing but I also have heard raving
reviews for what’s called a rock-n-play. A lot of people use that as a
bassinet. Abe slept in his crib from day one so we didn’t really have a
need for something like that. Although, I probably would have used the rock-n-play for naps. I’ve heard that it
really helps to soothe fussy babies, but so does a swing. My strong recommendation is to make sure your swing plugs
in and doesn’t run on batteries. <a href="http://www.target.com/p/fisher-price-my-little-snugamonkey-special-edition-cradle-n-swing/-/A-14775326#prodSlot=medium_1_4&term=baby+swing">This</a> is very similar to the one we have. We used it from newborn to 6 months. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Bouncy Seat</h3>
A bouncy seat was another thing that was passed down by my sister (<a href="http://www.target.com/p/fisher-price-my-little-snugamonkey-special-edition-deluxe-bouncer/-/A-14775261#prodSlot=_1_2">here's one that is similar</a>).
We used it from about 1 month to 5 months. So you don’t use it super
long. I liked it for play time or I’d put it in the bathroom while I got ready in the morning. They are light and portable,
so we occasionally took it with us to friends' houses. <br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dbotDR_anEY/VsKFvpFN2oI/AAAAAAABAQ8/3w7WNR-5sL4/s1600/IMG_3122.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dbotDR_anEY/VsKFvpFN2oI/AAAAAAABAQ8/3w7WNR-5sL4/s400/IMG_3122.jpg" width="300" /></a></h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://www.target.com/p/fisher-price-laugh-n-learn-puppy-and-pals-learning-table/-/A-14555199?ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=14555199&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Toys%2BShopping&adgroup=SC_Toys&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9016241&gclid=CjwKEAiAi4a2BRCu_eXo3O_k3hUSJABmN9N196dageNPxq011FaMVVULHAwZwFOlS08XiHjIBUNePRoCFVLw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Sophie the Giraffe</a> </h3>
Pretty
much the only official teething toy we use. I don’t know exactly why,
but babies love this thing. Abram is no exception! For a while we would bring it with us
almost everywhere we went. We also have the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/go-gaga-squeeze-teethe-elephant-kiki/-/A-14508547?ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=14508547&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Baby%2BShopping&adgroup=SC_Baby&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9016241&gclid=CjwKEAiAi4a2BRCu_eXo3O_k3hUSJABmN9N14daSG1tPyu1eSLgRSM6pGImuYEzf1QZ4Pf0770xbzRoC03vw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">elephant version</a> but he doesn't like it nearly as much. Although, if I would have seen <a href="http://www.target.com/p/sophie-la-girafe-fanfan-the-fawn-teether/-/A-21569959#prodSlot=medium_1_4&term=sophie+la+girafe">this fawn version</a>, I probably would have registered for this one over all the others! So cute! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tC-6tC7n8CE/VsKB_1qpIVI/AAAAAAABAQM/85pVE0Tc1ss/s1600/DSC_0157.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tC-6tC7n8CE/VsKB_1qpIVI/AAAAAAABAQM/85pVE0Tc1ss/s400/DSC_0157.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<h3>
Exersaucer</h3>
<a href="http://www.target.com/p/oball-bounce-o-bunch-activity-center/-/A-16386189?registryId=e6RxDs6tBK7alndt-td8NA&regTitle=Laura%20%26%20Michael%27s&regMode=REGST&rType=R&itemLineNum=98&reqQty=1&regPurQty=1&regPage=RMI&preSelFlag=1&cr=true">Here is the one </a>we
have. I think a lot of times you
can get these second hand. I like having it because it helps exercise their
legs, keeps them entertained, keeps them upright, and keeps them
contained. I use it a lot if I need to sweep or do something where I want to make sure the baby stays out of the way for a little bit.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Learning Table</h3>
And now, more recently, Abram LOVES <a href="http://www.target.com/p/fisher-price-laugh-n-learn-puppy-and-pals-learning-table/-/A-14555199#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=learning+table">his learning table</a>.
My mom got it at a garage sale a couple years ago and looks like they
still sell it. It's great for him now that he can stand. (and it's great before they can stand too because the legs come off and they can play with it on the floor.) Lately, he'll spend
most of his playtime at it dancing and grooving to the music. And I
spend most of my time watching him do that. :-) His cute little hips
just'a movin' and a'shakin'! <br />
<br />
<h3>
Play Mat</h3>
We registered for a play mat and I probably wouldn’t
recommend it. Not because it is a bad thing to have, just because it is
not that useful for very long. I feel like a blanket on the ground and
you interacting with your baby is the best thing for him/her. You
don’t need <a href="http://www.target.com/p/infantino-go-gaga-deluxe-twist-fold-gym/-/A-14300791#prodSlot=_1_1">a $50 toy</a> to do that. <br />
<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
- Nursery Items -</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
</h2>
<h3>
Baby Monitor</h3>
I went back and forth as to whether or not we needed a monitor, but in the end I’m glad that we got one. And I also debated as to whether we really needed one with video. But actually, we use the video aspect more than the sound. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Infant-Optics-Digital-Monitor-Vision/dp/B0052QYLUM/ref=sr_1_5?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1452048375&sr=1-5">Here is the link</a> for the one we got. It's nothing fancy but very reasonably priced. It does not have two way communication which may be something nice to have in the future, but our house is small enough that we didn’t feel like that was necessary. I will say that the range is not the best. So if you have a large home, I would not recommend this monitor.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NOyK-bNW2j8/VViPaXp6gjI/AAAAAAAA6yc/25fuCw4sc8s/s1600/DSC_1217.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NOyK-bNW2j8/VViPaXp6gjI/AAAAAAAA6yc/25fuCw4sc8s/s400/DSC_1217.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<h3>
Rocker/Glider</h3>
One thing I agonized over was a rocker/glider. I
didn’t want to spend a lot of money but I wanted something comfortable
for those middle of the night feedings. We ended up semi-splurging on
one and I’m so glad we did. It is an upholstered glider that I know
will last through all of our kids. We got it scotch guarded and that
has helped keep the spit up from ruining the upholstery. I also felt
strongly that the back of the chair had to be high enough that I could
lean my head against it, and I’m glad about that decision. I would say if you are
going to spend money somewhere for your nursery, a comfortable and functional rocker/glider would be the place to spend it.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Diaper Pail</h3>
We got the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/munchkin-arm-hammer-diaper-pail-with-one-25-count-refill-bag-and-baking-soda-cartridge/-/A-11990153?registryId=e6RxDs6tBK7alndt-td8NA&regTitle=Laura%20%26%20Michael%27s&regMode=REGST&rType=R&itemLineNum=63&reqQty=1&regPurQty=1&regPage=RMI&preSelFlag=1&cr=true">Arm & Hammer version</a>.
It works well, but then again, we are just now getting into the really
smelly diapers! So we’ll see! But we like it because we have figured out
a way to use regular trash bags in it instead of the expensive ones
that they make to go inside. The door does feel a bit flimsy. When it
becomes very full, the diapers start to push the door open, even when
it's locked, but I think that is because we rigged it up to take the regular sized kitchen trash bags. I imagine that when it is full of smelly diapers, it may
not do the best job of keeping the smells at bay. I recently found <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ubbi-Steel-Diaper-Pail-White/dp/B00821FLT4/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458351265&sr=8-1&keywords=diaper+pail+ubbi">this new brand </a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ubbi-Steel-Diaper-Pail-White/dp/B00821FLT4/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458351265&sr=8-1&keywords=diaper+pail+ubbi">of diaper pail </a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ubbi-Steel-Diaper-Pail-White/dp/B00821FLT4/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458351265&sr=8-1&keywords=diaper+pail+ubbi">(Ubbi) </a>
that I would be interested in trying. It is a bit more expensive but
it seems like it might be worth the extra cost. If someone has one, I'd
love to hear how you like it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KL9CB-zjjT8/VViYgJQdHAI/AAAAAAAA63g/3Vh567J3kgIOa25Fomjz4GedGmkvn6fBw/s1600/DSC_1245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KL9CB-zjjT8/VViYgJQdHAI/AAAAAAAA63g/3Vh567J3kgIOa25Fomjz4GedGmkvn6fBw/s400/DSC_1245.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
Changing Station</h3>
We use a dresser as a changing table, which I
love because then he can still use it when he gets bigger. To make the
dresser into a changing table, we just bought a changing pad to put on
top of the dresser. We have two changing pad covers and some <a href="http://www.target.com/p/munchkin-3pk-waterproof-changing-pad-liners/-/A-14323622#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=changing+pad+liner">changing pad liners</a>
. I thought it would be nice to have the liners to cut down on how
often I needed to change the pad cover. But I’m not happy with how this
brand of liners wears in the wash. It would work just as well to put a
burp cloth down, or towel, instead of the changing pad liners. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wi8JvDk7_14/VVj2-PzJ9BI/AAAAAAAA67g/KG3FGuU6FJc/s1600/DSC_1127.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wi8JvDk7_14/VVj2-PzJ9BI/AAAAAAAA67g/KG3FGuU6FJc/s400/DSC_1127.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Bedding</h3>
We have four cribs sheets (I love these <a href="http://www.target.com/p/circo-knit-fitted-crib-sheet/-/A-14772641?registryId=e6RxDs6tBK7alndt-td8NA&regTitle=Laura%20%26%20Michael%27s&regMode=REGST&rType=R&itemLineNum=20&reqQty=1&regPurQty=1&regPage=RMI&preSelFlag=1&cr=true">jersey sheets</a>)
which has been plenty, for now! We probably really only need/use 3. We
did not get bumpers or a comforter. We pretty much just have a crib
skirt and sheet and that’s been fine for us. The quilt was a hand made
gift from one of my best friends. And I love it! <br />
<br />
<h3>
Other Nursery Necessities</h3>
We put up a black-out shade for his
window and I think that helps him nap better. We also use a humidifier
all the time for him - good for when they have a cold but also acts as a
nice white noise maker. LOTS-O-Baskets! We use LOTS of baskets/bins for
storing clothes, toys, extra diapers and wipes, shoes, etc...<br />
<br />
<i>For more information about our nursery design and organization click <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-great-scoutdoorsman-nursery-revealed.html">here</a> and <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/05/organizing-nursery.html">here</a>. </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
- Baby Care Items -</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JgweHC1n7xQ/VsKFpd8PbEI/AAAAAAABARI/N9ImIM3eb_Y/s1600/IMG_2902.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JgweHC1n7xQ/VsKFpd8PbEI/AAAAAAABARI/N9ImIM3eb_Y/s320/IMG_2902.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Grooming items</h3>
-We decided on traditional diapers. We started out using pampers but now have switched to the Sam’s club brand because they are about 10 cents cheaper per diaper.<br />
<br />
-Lots of Desitin cream because it's awesome stuff! At the first sign of redness we put it on and it clears his skin right up. We always apply it at night too and he's never had a significant diaper rash. Note: we were disappointed in the CVS generic brand - very runny and
not very good. Other generic brands may be ok, but be careful. After we
tried the CVS brand, we just stuck with the name brand stuff.<br />
<br />
-I love hooded towels for bath time … Some small and some larger ones for when they are bigger. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Banana-Teething-Toothbrush-Cornelius/dp/B00MIBUZHW">-This toothbrush</a>. We use it to brush his teeth and he also loves it as a teether too.<br />
<br />
-You gotta have a baby tub and I would recommend one that has a sling insert for when they are newborns.<br />
<br />
-Also, this is the BEST smelling <a href="http://www.target.com/p/johnson-s-bedtime-lotion-27-oz/-/A-11427118?registryId=e6RxDs6tBK7alndt-td8NA&regTitle=Laura%20%26%20Michael%27s&regMode=REGST&rType=R&itemLineNum=16&reqQty=2&regPurQty=2&regPage=RMI&preSelFlag=1&cr=true">bedtime lotion</a>. We use it every night! It's momma crack! I could sniff it all day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="irc_mi" src="http://scene7.targetimg1.com/is/image/Target/11355332?wid=480&hei=480" height="320" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /> </div>
<h3>
Nose Care</h3>
FACT! Babies have runny noses all. the. time. But as a mom, it's hard to look at those runny noses all day long. For a while we used a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Briggs-650-4004-0121-Syringe-Sterile-Ounce/dp/B001OTK6JG/ref=pd_sbs_75_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=31gWJ0iOYwL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR98%2C160_&refRID=0ERNPQ9R5AMRYTK3HRFB">nasal aspirator</a>. (We also got one from the hospital but the store bought one works better.) He would scream and it would be a whole thing. It worked... but it was pretty exhausting for him and me.<br />
<br />
One day we thought we lost our nasal aspirator, so I went to the store for a new one, but curiosity got me and I bought the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/nosefrida-nasal-aspirator/-/A-11355332#prodSlot=medium_1_2&term=nasal+aspirator">nose frida</a>. Have you heard of it? The snot sucker? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsLFKfGuioE">Here's a video of it</a>. Basically you suck through a small hose/tube to create suction through a tube placed up to your baby's nose. This tube collects the snot but prevents any of it from getting to you by way of a filter. At first, I was skeptical. (Snot sucking? Ew! Gross!) But then I tried it! And it works SUPER well! And he doesn't scream NEARLY as much. And it's much easier to clean than the nasal aspirator! Win win win! Now $15 does seem pretty outrageous for a plastic tub and tiny filter but, if it works, it works! Well worth the cost, in my opinion. We also really love <a href="http://www.target.com/p/boogie-wipes-premoistened-unscented-30-ct/-/A-14244666#prodSlot=medium_1_5&term=boogie+wipes">these boogie wipes</a>. They help clean off crusty noses in a more gentle and soothing way compared to just using kleenexs or wipes. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="irc_mut" height="320" src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="242" /> </div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Diaper Bag</h3>
I watched a lot of youtube video reviews on diaper bags and <a href="http://www.target.com/p/skip-hop-duo-special-edition-diaper-bag-french-stripe/-/A-14509174?registryId=e6RxDs6tBK7alndt-td8NA&regTitle=Laura%20%26%20Michael%27s&regMode=REGST&rType=R&itemLineNum=17&reqQty=1&regPurQty=1&regPage=RMI&preSelFlag=1&cr=true">this one</a> was very popular, so that’s the one I went with. I like that it has a long strap so I can wear it cross body. I also like the side bottle pockets. I like that it has front pockets, and a shallow top pocket for my wallet. The only thing I don’t really like is that it is a little lacking in inside storage. There is not much room for an extra pair of clothes, wipes, the diaper changing pad, toys, blankets, etc.. literally all things that are nice to carry around. It’s a hard balance between wanting all the storage and not wanting to tote around a huge bag. I also know that Michael appreciates that the design is not overly feminine for the times where he has to carry it. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Travel Diaper Changing Pad</h3>
<a href="http://www.target.com/p/jj-cole-changing-clutch-stone-arbor/-/A-14694786?ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=14694786&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Baby%2BShopping&adgroup=SC_Baby&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9016241&gclid=CjwKEAiAi4a2BRCu_eXo3O_k3hUSJABmN9N1I73jQuOG6pxWhJ-bkav8mekN4EWfnFtHFpNflIQXcRoCE2nw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">This is the one </a>we have. We use this all. the. time. We keep it in the diaper bag and take it wherever we go. I use it on bathroom changing tables in public restrooms….when they are available….. and when they aren’t available, it’s great to have so that you don’t have to lay your baby on the dirty floor. :-( gahhhh!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4LDfZTP9glg/VXzerxa62gI/AAAAAAAA7OU/ncEorIxTYCM/s1600/DSC_0015.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4LDfZTP9glg/VXzerxa62gI/AAAAAAAA7OU/ncEorIxTYCM/s400/DSC_0015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
Blankets</h3>
<a href="https://www.adenandanais.com/swaddles/shop-all/?utm_gclid=%7Bgclid%7D">Aden + Anais</a>
blankets were our favorite for swaddling. I absolutely love the
designs they offer. The material is guazy which puts a momma's heart at
ease knowing that baby can breath through them if they should happen to
get a blanket over their face. They are a bit pricey for what they are
but momma likes what momma likes.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Babysitter Bag</h3>
We bought a big tote from Lands End that we use for the babysitter's. It’s huge, but we can leave a pack of diapers, a big thing of wipes, clothes, bottles, blankets, burp clothes, his lovey and more. It’s great because we just fill it up at the start of the week and then take it home to refill at the end of the week. Sometimes, if we are going somewhere for the whole day, we’ll bring it too since we know it's stocked with everything we'll need.<br />
<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Some things we didn’t get but maybe will get for next time: </h3>
Bottle warmer<br />
Extra pump connectors and shields<br />
A hand pump to have in case of emergency <br />
<br />
<h3>
Some things we got but either returned or didn’t use:</h3>
Wipe warmer <i>-I don’t get to wipe with something warm, why should my baby?!</i><br />
Play mat -see above<br />
Pacifiers -we got so many and he didn’t take any of them!<br />
Teething rings -another thing we got tons of! <br />
Bibs -We have 4 favorites that we rotate through, but we were gifted probably close to 20!<br />
<a href="http://www.target.com/p/eddie-bauer-canopy-car-seat-cover-leaf/-/A-14956772?registryId=e6RxDs6tBK7alndt-td8NA&regTitle=Laura%20%26%20Michael%27s&regMode=REGST&rType=R&itemLineNum=70&reqQty=1&regPurQty=2&regPage=RMI&preSelFlag=1&cr=true">This type of car seat cover</a> -we HATED it because it was constantly blowing around in the wind or sliding down the handles! So we returned it and bought <a href="http://www.target.com/p/eddie-bauer-bundle-blanket/-/A-14958967?ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=14958967&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Baby%2BShopping&adgroup=SC_Baby&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9016241&gclid=CjwKEAiAi4a2BRCu_eXo3O_k3hUSJABmN9N1W8vidKs7MC6BODm6bR6WMBUdkl0NV7R62EjSYgHUNBoCRbvw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">one like this</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
Hopefully, for all those moms-to-be, you find this information helpful. I'd love to hear from other momma's about what they have found to be their favorites and their not-so-favorites. What do you swear by or what wouldn't you wish on your worst enemy?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Registering Momma! </div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-39245770454868214132015-10-17T19:28:00.000-07:002015-10-18T16:15:54.879-07:00Ode to the OrchardThis time of year my heart swells to 5 times it's normal size with family pride. And now that we have a little one, I think it's even bigger.<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sWLyUCwad20/ViLKxWj4vKI/AAAAAAAA-r8/npVZ381ixP4/s1600/IMG_0609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sWLyUCwad20/ViLKxWj4vKI/AAAAAAAA-r8/npVZ381ixP4/s640/IMG_0609.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
It's harvest season for my and many other families across the country. Which means, long days full of hard work and skipped meals so that your family may have a farm fresh meal.<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ymNWEJ6PcsY/ViLMIkvtpUI/AAAAAAAA-sI/NQM0WABu2-I/s1600/IMG_0565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ymNWEJ6PcsY/ViLMIkvtpUI/AAAAAAAA-sI/NQM0WABu2-I/s640/IMG_0565.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My family? We grow mainly apples and sweet corn but we also grow peaches, pumpkins, squash, gourds, cauliflower, peppers, cabbage, zucchini, and more. We've been in business for over 90 years. <i>Isn't that incredible!?</i> I'm 5th generation which makes Abram and his cousins 6th generation.<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yWQSlo1l9zg/ViLKeSDVapI/AAAAAAAA-r0/X3zRe7yft6A/s1600/IMG_3009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yWQSlo1l9zg/ViLKeSDVapI/AAAAAAAA-r0/X3zRe7yft6A/s640/IMG_3009.JPG" width="640"></a></div>
<br>
So this time of year, my family is hard at work. Working 12+ hour days, 7 days a week. My dad and brother, doing what needs to be done to get the apples picked and in stores. My mom, running our farm market and educating hundreds of local young children about the ins and outs of an apple orchard. They work incredibly hard and sometimes I wonder if it's worth it. Then I see all the smiling faces making lifetime fall memories by spending a day at Kercher's. Or someone will tell me how much fun they had on their school tour with their kid and how GREAT Mrs Apple is. (<i>she is pretty great!</i>...{She's my mom})<br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPMCgwEig8Q/ViLFlvp3RVI/AAAAAAAA-rg/F3FBTq48rvg/s1600/IMG_3004.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPMCgwEig8Q/ViLFlvp3RVI/AAAAAAAA-rg/F3FBTq48rvg/s640/IMG_3004.jpg" width="480"></a></div>
<br>
And that's why this time of year is so special. Not only is this farm an incredibly special part of my life, it is special to many in our community who make it a point to come and visit. My family allows others to come into our farm life and share in the special memories that can be made there. I just love that! So if you are local, come on by and get some apples, cider, pumpkins and more. If you aren't, find your own family-owned farm to support. Memories are waiting to be made.<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sPEs3U-5Omw/ViLNSN1H83I/AAAAAAAA-sU/5xyvR32i7-0/s1600/IMG_0511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sPEs3U-5Omw/ViLNSN1H83I/AAAAAAAA-sU/5xyvR32i7-0/s640/IMG_0511.jpg" width="426"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Want to come to our farm? Check us out on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Kerchers-Sunrise-Orchards-140862185948471/">facebook</a> to learn more. <br>
<br>
*Photo credit to my forever photographer and friend <a href="http://bethwilsonphotography.com/">Beth Wilson</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-41661498557067041322015-09-22T15:49:00.001-07:002015-09-22T15:49:32.556-07:00Reflections From a New Mom<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tWDVBWJgt1E/VgHXOg2T3vI/AAAAAAAA-R8/V-UryYlUwW0/s1600/Reflections%2Bfrom%2Ba%2Bnew%2Bmom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tWDVBWJgt1E/VgHXOg2T3vI/AAAAAAAA-R8/V-UryYlUwW0/s640/Reflections%2Bfrom%2Ba%2Bnew%2Bmom.jpg" width="600" /></a></span></div>
<br />
One year ago today, we got some pretty big news.<br />
One year ago today, I found out that I was pregnant. <br />
<br />
In the bathroom, with a little bit of pee on my hand, I repeated over and over again "oh my gosh oh my gosh oh my gosh" as I stared at two little blue lines.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ls4T2RcqOm0/VgATMwLh27I/AAAAAAAA-O4/b_xoQQgWnkI/s1600/PPTphoto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ls4T2RcqOm0/VgATMwLh27I/AAAAAAAA-O4/b_xoQQgWnkI/s400/PPTphoto.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
I feel like I should have some very profound and well worded summary on what this past year has meant to me. But, still, all I can say is, "oh my gosh!". People say you can never be fully prepared for having children... and from my experience, I totally agree. You can read all the blogs, all the books, talk to all the parents, and do all the things to prepare but you will still be taken off guard and stretched daily... in some of the best and hardest ways ever.<br />
<br />
Now in direct contradiction of what I just wrote, I wanted to share some of my own experiences maybe in order to help an expecting mom prepare or let a new mom know she's not alone. Because lets face it, just because you can't possibly fully prepare, doesn't mean you shouldn't try.<br />
<br />
<i>I also want to give a little disclaimer. In order to be an encouragement to other moms, I felt like I needed to be pretty open about my experiences. So some of the details about my experiences postpartum are a bit more graphic than my typical, light hearted, G rated blog posts. </i> <br />
<br />
<h4>
On Pregnancy</h4>
<br />
Most of my insight has come from the post postpartum period because, in all honesty, I had a fantastic pregnancy. Minimal nausea, no complications, minimal aches and pains. I am so thankful for it. Pregnancy can be rough for sure, and each pregnancy very different from the next (I'm told). So my insight is simply this: be thankful for your pregnancy! Because there's no guarantees. It is a gift to hold and protect a little one on the inside, and no one is ever promised this gift. So be thankful in spite of any discomfort, because there are always those who would give anything to bare it. <br />
<br />
<h4>
On Finding Out the Gender</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl19OgmF2GU/VgHanZD7vKI/AAAAAAAA-SI/ZkMfuVuiiA8/s1600/Gender%2BReveal1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl19OgmF2GU/VgHanZD7vKI/AAAAAAAA-SI/ZkMfuVuiiA8/s400/Gender%2BReveal1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Finding out the gender was an easy decision for us. We LOVED finding out but next time I think I'll do it a little differently. I thought, "I don't want to wait any longer than I have to! I want to find out during the ultrasound!!!" Well, and there is no way I could have known this, turns out it was not the best experience. The ultrasound tech, although VERY professional and good at what she does, was all business. Ok, business is fine if you are taking a look at my gallbladder! I was just hoping for a little more enthusiasm. You know, feel the room.<br />
<br />
She asked us if we'd like to find out the gender...we said "yes". When it came time to assess that area, we were very flatly introduced to our son by -and I quote-: "Here are the testicles..."<br />
<br />
(Flat line face emoji)<br />
<br />
Of course we were excited to hear the news, I just think next time we'll have her write it down (hopefully as "<i>boy/girl</i>", not <i>"testicle/ovaries</i>"). Then, Michael and I can go out to eat afterward and find out together. Plus, there are all the conversations you are dying to have after you hear the news (baby names!!!!) that you can't have because you are trapped at the doctor's office for at least another half hour!<br />
<br />
Finding out what we were having was a super important step for me in bonding with Abram. While I was pregnant, especially early on, I had a hard time feeling connected emotionally with the idea that what was growing inside me was a person who would be joining our family. It was just all too crazy for me to be able to fully understand. But finding out that it was a little boy helped bring me closer to the idea that this is a baby. But not just any baby, it was our baby. But not just our baby, our son! I can already tell though, next time I would bet it will be easier for me to bond. Because now that I know the immense love and connection with my child, I will be able to get to that point more quickly. <br />
<br />
<h4>
On Getting Ready</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yMoQoAUfSrI/VgAWvg9-Q8I/AAAAAAAA-PM/AEQua3P_fFk/s1600/DSC_1128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yMoQoAUfSrI/VgAWvg9-Q8I/AAAAAAAA-PM/AEQua3P_fFk/s640/DSC_1128.jpg" width="424" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
It shouldn't come as a shock to anyone that we LOVED getting ready for Abram. Working on the nursery (see <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-great-scoutdoorsman-nursery-revealed.html">here</a> and <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/05/organizing-nursery.html">here</a>) was our way of preparing our hearts for the love that we were about to lavish on this little guy. It was our way of saying, you are wanted, and you have a place. So whatever that is that you need to do to send that message (to yourself, maybe, even more than to a baby), do it. Maybe it is prepping food. Maybe it is cleaning every last nook of your house. Maybe it is going to every garage sale that has a hint of baby items. I wholeheartedly believe that it is as important of a step emotionally as it is practically. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
And because we knew we were going in to be induced, Michael and I went out for one last no-kid dinner together. We decided a little walk and picnic at our favorite spot seemed super fitting.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mp9gR0681S4/VgAYowWJ-4I/AAAAAAAA-Pg/akhBcyamddI/s1600/IMG_2443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mp9gR0681S4/VgAYowWJ-4I/AAAAAAAA-Pg/akhBcyamddI/s400/IMG_2443.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
And we even have talked about making it a tradition and taking Abram back every year before his birthday! <br />
<br />
<h4>
On Labor & Delivery</h4>
Not 12 hours after Abram was born, I looked at Michael and said, "I can't imagine never doing that again... that was SO cool!" <br />
<br />
I was induced at 41 weeks, which is not ideal, but it got the job done. The epidural was my absolute favorite thing in the whole world. I told Michael every hour after I got it that it was the best decision I have ever made. Not saying everyone should do it, just saying I was happy (VERY happy) with my decision. I was about 12 hours into my induction and probably somewhere around 5cm dilated. I opted to try Nubain (which is a pain medication injected through an IV) before the epidural and I wish I would have skipped that and just gone straight to the epidural. It made me pretty groggy and it provided very little, if any, pain relief. The epidural was great but it did make it difficult when it came time to push. I pushed for 2.5hrs and we ended up having to use the vacuum. His heart rate was decelerating every time I pushed and they wanted to deliver him quickly. So it was either the vacuum or a C Section. And at the time a vacuum seemed like the less invasive, quicker and best choice. And with one more push he was born. He had had the cord wrapped around his neck twice but he thankfully recovered very quickly. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ROCD7pkEfdo/VgApJb2Kw8I/AAAAAAAA-P4/aSQ8SAMntbU/s1600/IMG_1541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ROCD7pkEfdo/VgApJb2Kw8I/AAAAAAAA-P4/aSQ8SAMntbU/s400/IMG_1541.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div>
<br />
I couldn't believe all that hair! <3<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tks9UeB8HKA/VgAqWguZ0dI/AAAAAAAA-QI/DedhN48G0KI/s1600/IMG_1554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tks9UeB8HKA/VgAqWguZ0dI/AAAAAAAA-QI/DedhN48G0KI/s400/IMG_1554.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
It was a Friday which worked out super well for visitors to come see us on the weekend. But what was unfortunate was that the lactation consultants left Friday without watching me nurse him. I feel like that was a huge mistake on our part. The nurses are very well trained and very helpful, I just always wondered if the lactation consultant would have had anything else to add that might have been helpful. So next time around I will make sure to see the LC before being discharged. I did go later to see them and it was nice to get their perspective.. but I will talk more about that in a bit.<br />
<br />
<h4>
On Breastfeeding</h4>
So I expected breastfeeding to be difficult, I was just hoping that I'd be wrong. Right away we had issues with latching and keeping our little guy awake long enough to nurse. I'm not convinced Abram got much at all those first couple of days. Looking back I'm pretty sure he was dehydrated until my milk came in. And once it did, oh boy, watch out. He, all of a sudden, became a ferocious beast! Nursing sometimes as often as every hour and a half. It's exhausting in those early days. Feeling like you have <i>maybe</i> an hour between feedings. Plus, even though I was using a nipple shield, I got very sore and cracked. And that was certainly the hardest part. The soreness lasted about 5 weeks (5 long weeks) and I used a combination of hydro-cortisone cream and antibiotic ointment to heal the damaged areas. <br />
<br />
We also offered him a bottle pretty early, at 2 weeks old. The recommendation
we were given was to wait at least 6 weeks before offering a bottle. The reason we introduced it so early was because I was in my sister in law's wedding three weeks after he was born and there was no way I was going to be able to nurse him on the wedding day.
But, honestly, the ability to give him a bottle and give me a break in
those early weeks did wonders on my mood. I felt a HUGE weight lift off
my shoulders just knowing there was another option for feeding my
baby. We didn't do it often (once a day at most for the first month)
but it was just nice to know we could use it if we needed to. <br />
<br />
I continued to use the nipple shield with great results for 3 months. Supply was good, nursing wasn't really painful anymore, he was gaining weight. Momma was feeling good. I thought, "sure, lets try to go off this nipple shield". Well.... after a day and a half without it, it was like I was back to square one with soreness. Enough was enough. I was back to work now, pumping sometimes exclusively on days I worked. So about two weeks ago Michael and I decided to just try out pumping exclusively. And you know what?.. I love it! It is a little bit extra work but I'm not sore, I know exactly what I'm producing, I know exactly how much he is eating, I can pump whenever it is convenient for me, and anybody can feed Abram. When we were trialing it, I thought I might miss the closeness of nursing or the convenience. But honestly, I feel even closer to him because I can hold him away from me and see him a little better when he's eating. And I think it is almost more convenient because I don't have to disrobe every time I want to feed my child.<br />
<br />
So that's where we are at with this whole breastfeeding thing. I'm sure some lactation consultants would scold me for going off the boob but you know what?!.. he's still getting the good stuff I'm making! And overall, I think, when it comes to breastfeeding, that's what you have to keep in mind. I always told myself, "What's the worst case scenario when it comes to breastfeeding? I have to switch to formula and my baby continues to eat and grow?" That doesn't sound like a very bad worst case scenario to me!<br />
<br />
<i>(Note: if you are thinking about pumping exclusively, I would recommend reading up on how to maintain your supply, especially if your baby is 12 weeks and younger)</i><br />
<br />
<h4>
On Postpartum Healing</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pk5P73MTDb4/VgHPSFgR6lI/AAAAAAAA-Rg/vRjyA_ae0OA/s1600/i.php8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pk5P73MTDb4/VgHPSFgR6lI/AAAAAAAA-Rg/vRjyA_ae0OA/s640/i.php8.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
If I were going to choose two words to describe the first three weeks postpartum, they would be pain and anxiety. <br />
<br />
Pain. <br />
So Abram was born with a very large head. After he was born, the docotor told us, "If head size is any indication of intelligence then you have the smartest baby in Michiana." At the time, we laughed and smiled proudly at our little genius baby. But when the pain meds wore off, I found myself wishing for a slightly less smart, smaller headed baby. <br />
<br />
We had been forewarned. In our ultrasound leading up to our induction, his head size was off the charts... she couldn't even give an estimation. "Yikes!," I thought, "I'm in for a good time." But then, true to myself, I thought "Eh....It'll be fine"... well, overall, it was fine. He was born with a 15 inch head circumference.... and not through a C Section, which meant I had some pretty significant tearing. Third degree. Not the worst but certainly not the best. And it, by all accounts was the worst thing about the postpartum period. Up until this, I have never really had any significant injury. No surgeries, no broken bones. So having pain for weeks on end was something very new to me. The pain lasted well past the 6 week follow up. It was rough, ya'll. I won't lie. The lack of sleep, the anxiety over being a new mom, the physical pain from boobs to butt, made the first 3 weeks postpartum very trying. I know I could have dealt with it all better had I not been in so much pain. And, of course, I worried about infection too! Between the two of us, we certainly had some areas that were susceptible to infection. Luckily both him and I made it through infection free but I certainly worried about it enough! <br />
<br />
Anxiety. <br />
This too was not something I typically deal with. I am generally a pretty joyful person, optimistic, happy go lucky. That all changed, at least temporarily, postpartum. And the hardest two weeks of my life started at Abram's two week check up. The doctor told us that the newborn screening that they send out on every baby came back positive for Cystic Fibrosis. <i>What did that mean?</i> <u>In reality</u> it meant that we had to take him in for further testing in order to diagnose him. It meant the only thing we knew for sure was that he was at least a carrier for the recessive gene that carries the disease. But <u>in <i>my</i> head</u>, that meant he certainly probably had CF which meant that this little perfect baby I was falling more in love with daily had a terrible chronic disease that would probably take his life. I cried and prayed and cried and prayed. We waited two weeks before we could take him in for the test and another couple days until we received the results. It was negative. Abram was a carrier for the CF gene but <i>did not have CF</i>. He would not be affected by the disease and would only need genetic counseling when he wanted to have his own children someday. Relieved and thankful do not even begin to describe how I felt. I can only imagine what life would be like had the results been different. My heart aches for parents of kids with chronic diseases or cancer or developmental problems. That could still be us someday, there are no guarantees. But for now, we will thank God for a healthy child and hold him a little tighter. <br />
<br />
<h4>
On Help From Others</h4>
We are certainly blessed by family and friends. That was very clear to me postpartum. The amount of food we received allowed us to not even have to think about putting a meal together for a whole month. It was awesome and SO helpful at a time where you struggle to find the energy to do the very basic things. For those of you who brought us meals, THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! You did a very wonderful thing that did not go unappreciated. <br />
<br />
The other way people helped was by just listening. Every time I connected with another mom and she said things like "Oh I know." or "Yes, that happened to me too." or "I've been there." And she shared her experiences with me, it was like a little more weight was lifted off my shoulders and my heart. So I think that's why I felt compelled to write this blog post. Even though its long and even though I'm sharing more than maybe I initially felt comfortable with, I felt like I needed to do it. So hopefully you hear me saying, "girl, I've been there. You aren't alone." Because a week after the baby is born and you are up at 3am nursing your baby and biting you lip from the pain, you just need to know that you are doing ok. And it will get better. <br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
On Loving Your Baby</h4>
So I've shared a lot about the hardships of new motherhood. But it is completely unfair to leave it at that! Because there is a whole other side of this story that keeps getting better and better. His name is Abram.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Du1e9AjCho/VgBPraxuyGI/AAAAAAAA-RA/zdW3cNhgbJI/s1600/DSC_0215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Du1e9AjCho/VgBPraxuyGI/AAAAAAAA-RA/zdW3cNhgbJI/s640/DSC_0215.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
He is sweet and snuggly. Loves to "talk" and smile. He rolls over like nobody's business. And he likes to wake up to let us know he's still here at 3am. <i>Isn't that sweet?</i> He is without a doubt our greatest adventure and worth every twinge of pain and wiped-away tear.<br />
<br />
The thing about loving a baby is that there are always new things to love... and you better love them fast because soon they'll be gone. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
His hair, for instance, used to stick straight up like Albert Einstein... couldn't get it to lay down. Now I can't get it to stand up. What will be the next thing to change over night? I can't allow myself to wonder, I'd rather just enjoy it while it lasts. <br />
<br />
I hope that this post allows some new mom out there to feel like she's not alone. That somebody else has been there. That there is an end to the rough patch that is the postpartum period. <br />
<br />
There is so much more I could probably say but I will end it here. I am open to talking more about my experiences if you need someone to talk to. Please feel free to message me, email me, comment below.<br />
<br />
You are doing so great momma, you can do this. <br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Laura<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-86791567122125101112015-08-02T06:52:00.001-07:002015-08-02T06:52:30.486-07:00Our First New-Parent DIYThings are a wee bit different around our house these days. And when
I say a wee bit, I am referring to our wee little one. He's a game
changer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0h5wUPIxCeY/Vbem3p8WJLI/AAAAAAAA7Xw/MFif31fTMlU/s1600/DSC_0016.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0h5wUPIxCeY/Vbem3p8WJLI/AAAAAAAA7Xw/MFif31fTMlU/s640/DSC_0016.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
But what a cute game changer!?<br />
<br />
After
6 weeks of nighttime feedings, sitz baths, afternoon naps, spit-up
stained shirts, and the like, I got up enough energy and motivation to
start thinking about another project. I thought we'd start off easy...
with some crown molding in our bedroom. <br />
<br />
But, as I
soon found out, putting up crown molding and DIYing with a 6 week old in
the house is a new kind of challenging for us. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2013/03/crowning-achievement/">Here</a> & <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRmdePqq4OE">here</a>
are the two tutorials that we used that helped us work through the
difficulties of installing crown molding. I won't be including a
tutorial in this post since I barely understand the process still. <br />
<br />
The
thing about crown molding (and DIYing with a newborn in the house for
that matter) is that it takes a lot longer than you think. Apparently,
crown molding is a bit complicated to cut if you've never done it
before. But the more you do it the easier it gets. We started on
Saturday afternoon and were able to <i>unsuccessfully</i> install one piece and successfully <i>uninstall</i> that same piece.<br />
<br />
Poor Michael, he was more than a little frustrated... all in 90+ degree heat and 100% humidity.<br />
<br />
Yuck.<br />
<br />
And I was helping on and off, whenever I could coax our little one into sleeping long enough for me to be a second set of hands.<br />
<br />
But a day later and with a handy <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_326038-39450-KMA2800___?Ntt=kreg+crown+pro&UserSearch=kreg+crown+pro&productId=3502486">new little tool</a> (seriously, if you installing crown for the first time, you need it), we were able to install the whole room.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4H6L-SJQWM/Vbenc9MgCqI/AAAAAAAA7YI/uAQNgEHkHIc/s1600/DSC_0046.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4H6L-SJQWM/Vbenc9MgCqI/AAAAAAAA7YI/uAQNgEHkHIc/s640/DSC_0046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A close up of our (Michael's) handiwork. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-E1PJwzFgs/VbkZ70GN20I/AAAAAAAA7Y4/kK3a4BvvAmE/s1600/IMG_1740.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-E1PJwzFgs/VbkZ70GN20I/AAAAAAAA7Y4/kK3a4BvvAmE/s640/IMG_1740.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I feel like we have overcome a huge hurtle getting our first DIY done post baby.<br />
<br />
It <i>IS</i>
possible to accomplish something when you have a little one at home.
You just have to be flexible, patient, and allow for extra time.<br />
<br />
Right
around the time we were finishing up the crown and putting the room
back together, I found a new headboard for...get this, $15. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-czhH1r2KZn0/VbevL9WC0jI/AAAAAAAA7YY/UB9aQ7zZos4/s1600/crown%2Bmolding1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-czhH1r2KZn0/VbevL9WC0jI/AAAAAAAA7YY/UB9aQ7zZos4/s640/crown%2Bmolding1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Now it's a
bit more than we spent on our last headboard ($5) but we felt like it
was time for an upgrade. #treatyoself<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4X7egFuKtBg/VbevOLVYIZI/AAAAAAAA7Yg/BT6Vz1rt4KA/s1600/DSC_0045.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4X7egFuKtBg/VbevOLVYIZI/AAAAAAAA7Yg/BT6Vz1rt4KA/s640/DSC_0045.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Originally
I wanted an iron headboard, similar to our old one, but hey, for $15, a girl
can change her plan. Unfortunately now our bedroom is feeling very
heavy in wood stained finishes. Dresser, desk, chest, nightstand,
headboard. I need some painted furniture in here, STAT!<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aI3BHNhgqw4/VbenYpzLy8I/AAAAAAAA7YA/2EsasM0aPeU/s1600/DSC_0042.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aI3BHNhgqw4/VbenYpzLy8I/AAAAAAAA7YA/2EsasM0aPeU/s640/DSC_0042.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I'm
thinking two white matching nightstands. And I've been looking for some, but
apparently it is very hard to find two decent matching nightstands on
craigslist. This one I found on <a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Safavieh-Jonah-2-Drawer-Nightstand-AMH6531-FV22432.html?piid[0]=9472336">Wayfair</a> caught my eye. I like the wicker mixed with the white paint finish. But it's over my cheapo budget. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img data-zoom="1" src="https://secure.img1.wfrcdn.com/lf/49/hash/428/7098030/1/Safavieh-Jonah-2-Drawer-Nightstand-AMH6531.jpg" /> </div>
<br />
And I'd love to paint Michael's desk a linen/grey color. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BwlQ1i70rqk/Vbemsgemq4I/AAAAAAAA7Xg/eL-JNUVwW7U/s1600/DSC_0032.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BwlQ1i70rqk/Vbemsgemq4I/AAAAAAAA7Xg/eL-JNUVwW7U/s640/DSC_0032.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
This dresser will stay the same, it was my grandma's and I love the color of the wood with the color of the wall.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dj0pc-dYv_M/Vbemv32uCJI/AAAAAAAA7Xo/y9dgK9srvhc/s1600/DSC_0029.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dj0pc-dYv_M/Vbemv32uCJI/AAAAAAAA7Xo/y9dgK9srvhc/s640/DSC_0029.jpg" width="424" /></a> </div>
<br />
I stumbled upon RugsUSA, who was having a HUGE 70% off sale. I decided to buy <a href="http://www.rugsusa.com/rugsusa/rugs/rugs-usa-chunky-loop/bleached/200NCCL01E-26010.html">this rug</a> when I read all the positive reviews. Hopefully it will work out!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="fancybox-image" height="640" src="http://cdn2.ha-img.com/p/roomImage/200NCCL01E.jpg" width="436" /></div>
<br />
And
then finally I have some family pictures to hang on the wall as soon as they
come in the mail. Gotta see that cute little baby face all. the. time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yDDTpgqyzIE/VbenGzOgHKI/AAAAAAAA7X4/BUQGDC8E2ec/s1600/DSC_0035.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yDDTpgqyzIE/VbenGzOgHKI/AAAAAAAA7X4/BUQGDC8E2ec/s640/DSC_0035.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
So after months of being preoccupied with
decorating the nursery, it's nice to focus our attention to another room
and continue making this fixer-upper into our dream home. Slowly but
surely!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-75092004064475600822015-07-06T14:56:00.001-07:002015-07-06T14:56:57.425-07:00A Little IntroductionThere's a little man that I want to introduce you all to.<br />
<br />
This here is Abraham Mark. We call him Abram. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDIg86CStPs/VZruln_DcSI/AAAAAAAA7Vc/ZwdFrclDMHI/s1600/i.php10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDIg86CStPs/VZruln_DcSI/AAAAAAAA7Vc/ZwdFrclDMHI/s640/i.php10.jpg" width="426" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--TAFYAPATUo/VZMAHcRU6QI/AAAAAAAA7TY/-AiKlrLB0HA/s1600/i.php1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
He was born June 5th at 5:52am. <br />
<br />
<h4>
A Little About Abram:</h4>
Name:
We wanted to choose a strong, biblical name for our little guy. We
really liked the name Abram but decided to go with the full "Abraham"
as his formal name. Abraham of the Bible was a great man of God that
proved his faith and willingness to live sacrificially. He was chosen
by God to be the father of His people. We have some family ties to the name as well.
Abraham was also the name of my Great Great Great Grandfather who
settled into the area we now call home. My family is still running the family farm that
has been around for over 90 years.<br />
<br />
We chose Mark as the middle name in
honor of Michael's dad who passed away when he was 7 years old.
Abram's name definitely has a theme of fatherhood and establishment
which I think is very fitting for our first born son.<br />
<br />
Birth Weight: 8 lbs 9 oz<br />
<br />
Length: 21.5 inches long<br />
<br />
Head Circumference: 15 inches<br />
<br />
Hair:
He was born with lots of it! Brown and wavy and showing hints of red and gold highlights depending
on the light.<br />
<br />
Eye Color: Like most babies, blue grey. We'll see what sticks.<br />
<br />
Sleeps:
2-3 hours at a time at night for the first couple weeks. Now that we
are a month old, he's sleeping 3-5 hours at a time.
During the day he is a bit of a catnapper. But he sleeps best during
the day when snuggling with somebody.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ofSZjT6yoL0/VZrqP5i9jPI/AAAAAAAA7VM/e547vtDAKGc/s1600/i.php5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ofSZjT6yoL0/VZrqP5i9jPI/AAAAAAAA7VM/e547vtDAKGc/s640/i.php5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
At a Month: He's already over 10lbs and wearing some of his 3 month clothes. His arms and legs are filling out and getting chunkier. It does a momma's heart good to see that! Can you believe he's already a month old?! We had fun with a little Month Old/4th of July photo shoot last week. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X2bGPStaQ3k/VZruk3EqdDI/AAAAAAAA7VY/4foKULEv2Fk/s1600/DSC_0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X2bGPStaQ3k/VZruk3EqdDI/AAAAAAAA7VY/4foKULEv2Fk/s640/DSC_0066.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
A little bit about how I'm doing.</h4>
Boy. Motherhood is no joke people. It is not for the faint of heart, that is for sure.<br />
<br />
I
was not quite prepared for the amount of pain and recovery that I was
going to experience postpartum. Not to go into too many
details... things hurt. And when you hurt, are not getting sleep, and
are overwhelmed by this new role you are taking on... it can
certainly take its toll. I won't lie, there were plenty of tears
in the first couple weeks. But now as the pain is subsiding and I'm
figuring out our new normal, I am happy to say goodbye to those pesky ol' baby blues.<br />
<br />
But you know what has helped?<br />
Kissin' on this face.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--TAFYAPATUo/VZMAHcRU6QI/AAAAAAAA7TY/-AiKlrLB0HA/s1600/i.php1c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--TAFYAPATUo/VZMAHcRU6QI/AAAAAAAA7TY/-AiKlrLB0HA/s640/i.php1c.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Other
things that help: An awesome husband. Having someone else feed him with a bottle. Sharing
cute pictures with friends and family. Naps. Taking a bath. Prayer. Having people come over to visit. Knowing when to say no to visitors. Getting out of the house. Crying. Laughing. Netflix bingeing. Allowing others to help. Baby swing. Taking advice and recommendations with a grain of salt and finding what works for us. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CsUI4rS77Ss/VZL-7tLqPCI/AAAAAAAA7TM/SOIXGcxfZWk/s1600/162.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CsUI4rS77Ss/VZL-7tLqPCI/AAAAAAAA7TM/SOIXGcxfZWk/s640/162.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Obviously things have been super busy around here - moving from a Nurse & a Nerd..to a Nurse, a Nerd, & a Baby. There hasn't been much time for DIY or decorating (let alone blogging about such topics). However, we are gearing up for a huge home project this fall and I hope to keep you all update on that when things progress a little more. <br />
<br />
On that note... I think I hear a baby waking from his nap! Let me at those chubby cheeks!<br />
<br />
<i>Thanks again goes out to my friend <a href="http://bethwilsonphotography.com/">Beth Wilson</a> for the newborn photos. </i><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-20457236260436253862015-05-31T15:49:00.001-07:002015-05-31T15:50:05.703-07:00Laura Lately: Overdue EditionI realized that one of the last times I did one of these was what I called "<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/03/laura-lately-golden-week-edition.html">Laura Lately: Golden Week Edition.</a>" It was when I turned 27 years old on my 27th week of pregnancy. That was all the way back in the first week of March! So it seems fitting to end this pregnancy with a final Laura Lately... an Overdue Edition.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77n17SzzTaI/VWuDXhfC9MI/AAAAAAAA7Ik/FtOL3a68shc/s1600/156e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77n17SzzTaI/VWuDXhfC9MI/AAAAAAAA7Ik/FtOL3a68shc/s640/156e.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Lately I've Been Feeling:</h3>
Great! Everybody is doing well and staying healthy. I think people keep expecting me to say, now that I'm overdue, that I'm miserable... but I really am not! Other than some mild aches and being hot all. the. time., I am still feeling surprisingly good! <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BeisdMICVA">I'm not to this point quite yet. (Poor Rachel)</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Lately I've Been Asked:</h3>
"You're still here?!" This week at work, I probably heard this <i>at least</i> 5200 times. But this weekend, I worked my last scheduled days. And now it's nice to know that next time I show up at the hospital, I'll be leaving with a baby... and much less swollen ankles (hopefully). <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<h3>
Lately I've Been Advised To:</h3>
Walk<br />
Sleep as much as I can<br />
Stock up on easy meals<br />
Enjoy grocery shopping solo<br />
Eat spicy food<br />
Eat out with Michael<br />
Take a ride down a bumpy country road<br />
Jump on a trampoline<br />
Enjoy time with just the two of us<br />
Walk, walk, and walk some more<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zd4-wWi8VrA/VWuKJmONGwI/AAAAAAAA7JY/_8ZDXpsHqlo/s1600/163-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zd4-wWi8VrA/VWuKJmONGwI/AAAAAAAA7JY/_8ZDXpsHqlo/s640/163-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Lately I've Been Worried About:</h3>
Labor, it's kind of a scary deal. Especially when you're a nurse and you know too much. But I'm confident in my OB and about the care I'll receive. And not to mention the amount of prayer that we are receiving. Thanks so much everyone!! <br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Lately I've Been Excited About:</h3>
Um... meeting our little baby boy!! I am excited to see who this little guy is! I am excited to know his ins and outs. Make memories with him. Comfort him. Teach him. Snuggle him. And be his first love. I'm also excited to introduce him to all of you!!! <br />
<br />
Not sure when I'll be back to the blog, but rest assured I will update you and introduce you guys to our little man once he has arrived! Thanks so much to everyone for your excitement and encouragement through this time. Having you all to share in our joy has made it that much sweeter. You're all the best! <br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Laura, Michael, & Baby Blough <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9bUoC4bIzng/VWuMhLUurjI/AAAAAAAA7Jk/g3YOT7giJn8/s1600/172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9bUoC4bIzng/VWuMhLUurjI/AAAAAAAA7Jk/g3YOT7giJn8/s640/172.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
***Thanks to my super talented friend Beth Wilson for our maternity pictures! It was so special to have her be a part of this. We love the fact that you were there to capture this moment in time for us. (We also love that all the pics were taken in and around our home!! Super special!!) <a href="http://bethwilsonphotography.com/">Here's a link to her website</a> to see all her talents. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jxa5qZvKrB0/VWuF7fG2MoI/AAAAAAAA7I4/iOnrM6oeIgQ/s1600/203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-66436008391327806962015-05-25T05:00:00.000-07:002015-06-01T11:36:03.567-07:00Organizing the NurseryEverybody knows that sometimes wonderful things come in small packages.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u2goc_ns5Kg/VWB6-LJHJdI/AAAAAAAA7Es/AgH4RrgFLeg/s1600/Baby%2BBlough%2527s%2BUltrasound%2BPictures%2B-%2BB%2526W.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u2goc_ns5Kg/VWB6-LJHJdI/AAAAAAAA7Es/AgH4RrgFLeg/s400/Baby%2BBlough%2527s%2BUltrasound%2BPictures%2B-%2BB%2526W.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
But sometimes those small packages come with lots and lots of stuff!<br />
<br />
I think babies would fit in to that category. <br />
<br />
I took this picture only after our first baby shower.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-grWwFeRJQXM/VWB5-Se626I/AAAAAAAA7Ec/piAVgIvBwAo/s1600/IMG_2378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-grWwFeRJQXM/VWB5-Se626I/AAAAAAAA7Ec/piAVgIvBwAo/s400/IMG_2378.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Yikes.<br />
<br />
Thankfully we've come a long way. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zTTnzJrkmw/VWB-WOYqrcI/AAAAAAAA7F0/PjN-gFeP3UU/s1600/DSC_1142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zTTnzJrkmw/VWB-WOYqrcI/AAAAAAAA7F0/PjN-gFeP3UU/s640/DSC_1142.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" width="424" /></a></div>
Clearly a lot of organizing has happened. That's what this post is all about. How we organized our nursery. <br />
<br />
It think our biggest best friend for organizing our nursery were baskets. There are more baskets in this one room than in any of the other rooms in our home combined.<br />
<br />
You already saw how we used some baskets in our bookshelf.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BIC3Eu6FCfw/VWB8xeKU6cI/AAAAAAAA7FQ/EPGylgWcV8s/s1600/DSC_1200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BIC3Eu6FCfw/VWB8xeKU6cI/AAAAAAAA7FQ/EPGylgWcV8s/s640/DSC_1200.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Currently we are storing blankets in them, but before we know it they will be used to store Legos and cars and and trucks and who knows what else. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UzjQolTaOlc/VWB86BuiRkI/AAAAAAAA7FY/zaCuS09DIZ0/s1600/DSC_1307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UzjQolTaOlc/VWB86BuiRkI/AAAAAAAA7FY/zaCuS09DIZ0/s640/DSC_1307.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Another basket-heavy area was our changing table. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2NGU7tpO7WA/VWCABE4bXkI/AAAAAAAA7GQ/uICCFWyoYiE/s1600/DSC_1247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2NGU7tpO7WA/VWCABE4bXkI/AAAAAAAA7GQ/uICCFWyoYiE/s640/DSC_1247.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Not only did we buy some <a href="http://www.target.com/p/smith-hawken-square-decorative-basket-with-chalkboard-dark-finish/-/A-15191237?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=google_pla_df&LNM=15191237&CPNG=Home+Decor&kpid=15191237&LID=25pgs&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=15191237&kpid=15191237&gclid=CjwKEAjw7YWrBRCThIyogcGymQsSJAAmz_ndgH3jL5ILi6G2xOrvyqoPhmpW-5XMSM4sk4vihn_hTxoCOSLw_wcB">large baskets</a> that fit perfectly under the changing table, <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7_1d_UXvdCs/VWCAMtDblqI/AAAAAAAA7GY/5qQW4D97Qdk/s1600/DSC_1234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7_1d_UXvdCs/VWCAMtDblqI/AAAAAAAA7GY/5qQW4D97Qdk/s640/DSC_1234.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
we added some to the sides - for smaller items you'd like to have at the ready.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8m59_ysWwT4/VWCAqzCSF_I/AAAAAAAA7Gw/G2UKb1E95cU/s1600/DSC_1296.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8m59_ysWwT4/VWCAqzCSF_I/AAAAAAAA7Gw/G2UKb1E95cU/s640/DSC_1296.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" width="640" /></a><br />
Really, I just have things placed there <i>-just for now</i>. I know I will become much more specific about what I'd like stored in there when I'm actually using the space. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qgN0MWbqhPU/VWCA0DC4F7I/AAAAAAAA7G4/6cUJ5V1qkB4/s1600/DSC_1299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qgN0MWbqhPU/VWCA0DC4F7I/AAAAAAAA7G4/6cUJ5V1qkB4/s640/DSC_1299.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" width="424" /></a></div>
In addition to the baskets, the buffet we are using as a changing table has great storage in the drawers. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dDlZFLOZ3mE/VWCANdKcReI/AAAAAAAA7Gc/AX1BFiOWd5o/s1600/DSC_1283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dDlZFLOZ3mE/VWCANdKcReI/AAAAAAAA7Gc/AX1BFiOWd5o/s640/DSC_1283.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the drawers even had separators. Currently, I've got hats, socks, and bibs stored in there. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56ymGYs5_U8/VWCAa0CY46I/AAAAAAAA7Go/mht6QiVVm3U/s1600/DSC_1284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56ymGYs5_U8/VWCAa0CY46I/AAAAAAAA7Go/mht6QiVVm3U/s640/DSC_1284.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Table Organization" width="640" /></a></div>
The lower drawer has mostly sleepers and swaddle blankets stored in it for now.<br />
<br />
Last post I also showed you the little caddy we have our burp cloths stored in.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-94U74RMlhaQ/VWCDBWOigXI/AAAAAAAA7HM/M5JNZG3O1Yc/s1600/DSC_1168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Burp Cloth organization. " border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-94U74RMlhaQ/VWCDBWOigXI/AAAAAAAA7HM/M5JNZG3O1Yc/s640/DSC_1168.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Burp Cloth organization. " width="424" /></a></div>
I love it. It's so handy.... I mean, I'm guessing it's handy, since I haven't really used it yet. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mK6RoFs7Rak/VWCC864Lu-I/AAAAAAAA7HE/mBeZUjdvkZo/s1600/DSC_1297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Burp Cloth organization. " border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mK6RoFs7Rak/VWCC864Lu-I/AAAAAAAA7HE/mBeZUjdvkZo/s640/DSC_1297.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Burp Cloth organization. " width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We also have found some extra storage under the crib.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IoZRLX548Do/VWCFAo4PpNI/AAAAAAAA7Hg/1L-8U6j-Eeg/s1600/DSC_1128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Under the Crib Storage" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IoZRLX548Do/VWCFAo4PpNI/AAAAAAAA7Hg/1L-8U6j-Eeg/s640/DSC_1128.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Under the Crib Storage" width="424" /></a></div>
There is quite a bit of space underneath the crib and it just makes sense to utilize it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZM97AatSueo/VWCEuBsVvEI/AAAAAAAA7HY/aBQ33kZ3PHY/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage%2Bcrib%2Bstorage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Under the Crib Storage" border="0" height="438" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZM97AatSueo/VWCEuBsVvEI/AAAAAAAA7HY/aBQ33kZ3PHY/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage%2Bcrib%2Bstorage.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Under the Crib Storage" width="640" /></a></div>
So I did. I have this <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80300033/#/80300047">nylon zipper bin</a> that we got to go in our IKEA closet system. We weren't using this one and it fit perfectly! I have extra sheets and linens stored under there.<br />
<br />
Lastly, the closet. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj1MNfhSdH0/VWB8J05euLI/AAAAAAAA7E4/LxMNZ5HDiBQ/s1600/DSC_1256.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj1MNfhSdH0/VWB8J05euLI/AAAAAAAA7E4/LxMNZ5HDiBQ/s640/DSC_1256.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage" width="424" /></a></div>
Lots and lots of storage.<br />
<br />
The closet was built with these side shelves that are perfectly sized for <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Honey-Can-Do-Int-SFT-01761-Non-Woven-Foldable-Cube-11.-5x10.-6x10.-6-Green/34000694">these canvas bin cubes</a>. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2zx4j7ilWEA/VWB8PqoohpI/AAAAAAAA7FA/nDtKesr7HA4/s1600/DSC_1266.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2zx4j7ilWEA/VWB8PqoohpI/AAAAAAAA7FA/nDtKesr7HA4/s640/DSC_1266.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage" width="424" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I bought four in an army green color and glued paper numbers to the faces of them to give them a little bit more pizzazz (because that's a word we don't use enough of these days.) <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_T-Hwb0Fnrg/VWB-gFUH3oI/AAAAAAAA7GE/VsY9bnsRPUo/s1600/DSC_1278.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage Bins" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_T-Hwb0Fnrg/VWB-gFUH3oI/AAAAAAAA7GE/VsY9bnsRPUo/s640/DSC_1278.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage Bins" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I also bought these great <a href="http://www.target.com/p/sterilite-id-storage-tote-white-25-qt/-/A-15066035">plastic bins</a> that have dry erase labels on the front. Right now we have a few diapers stored up there as well as clothes he likely won't wear for a year or so. In the future, I could see us storing toys and other things we want to keep close but out of his reach and hidden. The labels are great since I'm forgetful and it would be helpful to have a visual reminder without pulling things down as to what is in each bin. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d6f4GDDCZdE/VWB8TmcdaqI/AAAAAAAA7FI/_FbODdgV0CI/s1600/DSC_1267.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d6f4GDDCZdE/VWB8TmcdaqI/AAAAAAAA7FI/_FbODdgV0CI/s640/DSC_1267.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage" width="640" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I really wanted some sort of clothing organizer to help me differentiate sizes of the clothes hanging in the closet. So all I did was trace out some circles on some thin cardboard (I used an old cereal box), glued some fun scrapbook paper to it and then made my labels with a Sharpe. It's super helpful and....free!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v2YlBz9jNdY/VWB-c1tzKuI/AAAAAAAA7F8/9XPxIC__xX0/s1600/DSC_1282.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Organization" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v2YlBz9jNdY/VWB-c1tzKuI/AAAAAAAA7F8/9XPxIC__xX0/s640/DSC_1282.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Organization" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then down below, we utilized that space with a <a href="http://www.target.com/p/room-essentials-9-cube-organizer-white/-/A-15116810#prodSlot=_1_10">cube organizer</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3mcwFD_Fv7w/VWB-Lq5wCMI/AAAAAAAA7Fk/fqihU6vTlxg/s1600/DSC_1272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3mcwFD_Fv7w/VWB-Lq5wCMI/AAAAAAAA7Fk/fqihU6vTlxg/s640/DSC_1272.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Closet Storage" width="424" /></a></div>
The organizer and the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/circo-foldable-fabric-cube-gingham-grey/-/A-16654661#prodSlot=medium_1_6&term=fabric+cube">fabric cubes</a> are also from Target. <br />
<br />
And look at this little guy! Isn't he just the happiest?! He's happy because everything has a place and everything is in its place.....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HtNaRagXXkc/VWB-UBITtGI/AAAAAAAA7Fs/dYeWrNM7H2A/s1600/DSC_1274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HtNaRagXXkc/VWB-UBITtGI/AAAAAAAA7Fs/dYeWrNM7H2A/s640/DSC_1274.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
Well.... for now. I have no illusions that things will look this neat and tidy forever. And let me be honest, I have some things just thrown in bins with other random items because I didn't know where else to put them. That will happen too. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you missed the full nursery reveal <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-great-scoutdoorsman-nursery-revealed.html">click here</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Linked up to: <a href="http://www.petitemodernlife.com/2015/05/28/think-and-make-thursday-no-33/">Think & Make Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.com/2015/06/june-2015-before-and-after.html">June Before & After Party</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-44299931310735544382015-05-17T12:56:00.001-07:002015-06-01T11:36:53.656-07:00The Great ScoutDoorsman Nursery Revealed! It's a big day here on the blog. Today's the day I show you what we've been working on since January. <br />
<br />
You all have been with us from the beginning, when we <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2014/11/announcing-our-next-big-project.html">announced our next big project</a>...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r8obrim9poA/VI5AnngRGRI/AAAAAAAA3gk/gqTHW78p85M/s1600/100914-4e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pregnancy announcement, construction" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r8obrim9poA/VI5AnngRGRI/AAAAAAAA3gk/gqTHW78p85M/s640/100914-4e.jpg" title="pregnancy announcement, construction" width="452" /></a></div>
<br />
And when we shared with you that <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/01/baby-bloughs-gender-revealed.html">Baby Blough is a boy</a>!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vnN2g8nvPgk/VKxDwML4s2I/AAAAAAAA314/EFi_Cb35YOM/s1600/Gender%2BReveal1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Gender Reveal, paint can" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vnN2g8nvPgk/VKxDwML4s2I/AAAAAAAA314/EFi_Cb35YOM/s640/Gender%2BReveal1.jpg" title="Gender Reveal, paint can" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And now I am happy to announce that we are finished with the nursery well before our estimated construction deadline (and due date) of May 28th.<br />
<br />
Remember where I was going with the plans for the nursery? <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/01/nursery-great-scout-doorsman.html">The Great ScoutDoorsman</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zgJd1xhQQaw/VLL3Z8DmIAI/AAAAAAAA328/0Xp-ULdOEUU/s1600/Outdoor%2BWoodland%2BNursery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zgJd1xhQQaw/VLL3Z8DmIAI/AAAAAAAA328/0Xp-ULdOEUU/s640/Outdoor%2BWoodland%2BNursery.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Well let's see how we did.<br />
<br />
Here is where we started. This room had functioned as our guest room/office. It was not painted (just primed) and was left pretty much undecorated.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KjvFv5biYjs/VVZYy9BN-GI/AAAAAAAA6ag/wZ2lXqMTg-w/s1600/DSC_0445e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KjvFv5biYjs/VVZYy9BN-GI/AAAAAAAA6ag/wZ2lXqMTg-w/s640/DSC_0445e.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
Because why decorate it when we were planning to convert it to a nursery as soon as the time came? <br />
<br />
And the time has come! (insert the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUXK6cP7QwE">I Love Lucy reference</a> here) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xgYas1PasaU/VVdZwhnBtLI/AAAAAAAA6jg/SZGevZywpLo/s1600/DSC_1194e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xgYas1PasaU/VVdZwhnBtLI/AAAAAAAA6jg/SZGevZywpLo/s640/DSC_1194e.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pYahhvIXtrg/VVdbQWHgSUI/AAAAAAAA6lI/GYC21IWxUTw/s1600/DSC_1128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pYahhvIXtrg/VVdbQWHgSUI/AAAAAAAA6lI/GYC21IWxUTw/s640/DSC_1128.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
You may notice that we switched up the artwork behind the crib. A couple posts ago there was a world map hanging up there with the words "Adventure is Out There" painted on it. I really liked it there until I started to hang the other artwork up. Then the colors started to feel really off and the whole room just started to feel very word-heavy. We had ordered these antique arrows from ebay months ago, figuring we could find a place to incorporate them into the room. So when we took down the map, I tried to see if they would work in the space as either a mobile or as artwork. The mobile didn't work out, but I love the way they look up on the wall. Simple. and Boy. <br />
<br />
<br />
Speaking of Simple and Boy. Check out the quilt. My friend Emily made it for us!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2JOPOyjeoME/VVdTfWxOKDI/AAAAAAAA6fc/GxHC9ldBC6M/s1600/DSC_1136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Gingham Quilt" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2JOPOyjeoME/VVdTfWxOKDI/AAAAAAAA6fc/GxHC9ldBC6M/s640/DSC_1136.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Gingham Quilt" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
It is absolutely one of my favorite things in the room. Not only does it fit perf.ec.tly in the room, it means so much to us that it was made with love by someone <i>that means so much to us</i>.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j90juRhUYww/VVfqbFvLHZI/AAAAAAAA6rY/FOMnxo7lot4/s1600/DSC_1134.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Gingham Quilt. Simple Bedding" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j90juRhUYww/VVfqbFvLHZI/AAAAAAAA6rY/FOMnxo7lot4/s640/DSC_1134.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Gingham Quilt. Simple bedding" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2mvq__eyEqg/VVdbJuB2HEI/AAAAAAAA6lA/pR8GWNiaaiU/s1600/DSC_1133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Gingham Quilt" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2mvq__eyEqg/VVdbJuB2HEI/AAAAAAAA6lA/pR8GWNiaaiU/s640/DSC_1133.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Gingham Quilt" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Th<span style="color: #0000ee;">e room's</span> light is something that gave me a big headache. I bought it at the Habitat ReStore. I tried several different things to get it to feel right in the room. I finally got it right when I started threading some twine through the wire in a herringbone pattern.<br />
<br />
I wouldn't recommend that project unless you have lots of free time and are looking for a sore neck.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h1DLCriMrsk/VVfqXi50QvI/AAAAAAAA6rQ/_DZkQZEMJyc/s1600/DSC_1131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Rope Herringbone Light" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h1DLCriMrsk/VVfqXi50QvI/AAAAAAAA6rQ/_DZkQZEMJyc/s640/DSC_1131.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Rope Herringbone Light" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
The curtain is the simplest curtain I have ever made! I'll tell you more about it sometime.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3iHuHn3XrKE/VVdbtSM17QI/AAAAAAAA6lo/cddUb6dk7K4/s1600/DSC_1143.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. " border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3iHuHn3XrKE/VVdbtSM17QI/AAAAAAAA6lo/cddUb6dk7K4/s640/DSC_1143.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. " width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The swivel rocker was another element we agonized over. Buy new? Buy off craigslist? Well finally, after being failed by craigslist, we decided to invest in a swivel rocker from a local place. We got to pick out the upholstery and everything #superfancy. And for only a $30 upcharge, we had it coated with an upholstery protector #supernecessary.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NOyK-bNW2j8/VViPaXp6gjI/AAAAAAAA6yY/zSClbV2ksCU/s1600/DSC_1217.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NOyK-bNW2j8/VViPaXp6gjI/AAAAAAAA6yY/zSClbV2ksCU/s640/DSC_1217.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
Bonus: It's extremely comfortable. <br />
<br />
The wall light is IKEA -I wrapped the shade with more twine and spray painted the finish oil-rubbed bronze. <br />
<br />
Here's the very first thing we bought for the nursery.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C0y6RLfTAuU/VVdTusrCqqI/AAAAAAAA6f0/2IFkbbo7y3g/s1600/DSC_1168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Burp Cloth Storage" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C0y6RLfTAuU/VVdTusrCqqI/AAAAAAAA6f0/2IFkbbo7y3g/s640/DSC_1168.jpg" title="Burp Cloth Storage" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
I guess you'd call it a tool box of some kind, made with some tree branches. It works perfectly for us to store burp cloths for now and books later on.<br />
<br />
Turning counterclockwise in the room is the changing station.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ax6wDJf3zEo/VViQARbC5ZI/AAAAAAAA6zQ/b3FFUMKHFnk/s1600/DSC_1247.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ax6wDJf3zEo/VViQARbC5ZI/AAAAAAAA6zQ/b3FFUMKHFnk/s640/DSC_1247.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" width="640" /></a></div>
My mom let us have an old hutch that was my grandma's. We added some baskets below and on the sides for additional storage. The top of the hutch was in a bit of rough shape, but nothing a burlap table runner couldn't fix.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gQXQc0_VUHI/VVdT73W7YrI/AAAAAAAA6gI/llX036UlCig/s1600/DSC_1177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
We found this old butcher basket which worked out perfectly for the changing pad and other diaper changing necessities.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U7YWG1ff3GU/VViXh4M3PMI/AAAAAAAA62g/KDp3ESqFS4M/s1600/DSC_1227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U7YWG1ff3GU/VViXh4M3PMI/AAAAAAAA62g/KDp3ESqFS4M/s640/DSC_1227.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BD6yV1Ax39Q/VViWJ_v1_NI/AAAAAAAA61g/BPd17LyH27M/s1600/DSC_1228.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BD6yV1Ax39Q/VViWJ_v1_NI/AAAAAAAA61g/BPd17LyH27M/s640/DSC_1228.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PJyz5sEpIiA/VViXh5J5DzI/AAAAAAAA62g/jlaVfZnwGgI/s1600/DSC_1231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PJyz5sEpIiA/VViXh5J5DzI/AAAAAAAA62g/jlaVfZnwGgI/s640/DSC_1231.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KL9CB-zjjT8/VViYgJQdHAI/AAAAAAAA63Y/eJEU4NhyQ_U/s1600/DSC_1245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KL9CB-zjjT8/VViYgJQdHAI/AAAAAAAA63Y/eJEU4NhyQ_U/s640/DSC_1245.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Changing Station" width="640" /></a></div>
The artwork above is some vintage national parks posters that were
available free online for printing. So we printed them and hung them in
IKEA frames. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x0Y8Bow-qOw/VViPUATLBwI/AAAAAAAA6yQ/0u8SbfMYLxc/s1600/DSC_1222.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Baby Box" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x0Y8Bow-qOw/VViPUATLBwI/AAAAAAAA6yQ/0u8SbfMYLxc/s640/DSC_1222.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Baby Box" width="640" /></a></div>
The box is his baby box, already storing memories - like the sign that I used to spill the beans to Michael when I found out I was pregnant!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0vTk5oMPIDE/VViPx0GKXKI/AAAAAAAA6y0/sofUcYzyKAQ/s1600/DSC_1226.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Baby Box" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0vTk5oMPIDE/VViPx0GKXKI/AAAAAAAA6y0/sofUcYzyKAQ/s640/DSC_1226.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Baby Box" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
And sitting on top of the box is something also very special. Some of you know that Michael lost his dad when he was 7 years old. Shortly after, a sweet lady took a couple of Michael's dad's shirts and made them into this little bear that they rightly named his "Daddy Bear."<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2BcLE0ifP24/VViPjQFg8iI/AAAAAAAA6ys/fi76oNNgrCk/s1600/DSC_1221.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Daddy Bear" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2BcLE0ifP24/VViPjQFg8iI/AAAAAAAA6ys/fi76oNNgrCk/s640/DSC_1221.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Daddy Bear" width="424" /></a></div>
Michael's mom offered the bear to us for the nursery and I didn't have to think long before saying yes! It's so special (kiddo won't be allowed to play with it). I love having something of our little guy's grandpa in the room.<br />
<br />
<br />
On the opposite wall we hung the adorable little camp signs that were made for one of my showers by my Aunt Janet and Saint Steve. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_EvfX66z4w/VVfuIKLlc8I/AAAAAAAA6rk/3_iWtohDo5s/s1600/DSC_1163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Pallet Wood Camp Signs" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_EvfX66z4w/VVfuIKLlc8I/AAAAAAAA6rk/3_iWtohDo5s/s640/DSC_1163.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Pallet Wood Camp Signs" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fbNTkNFbC2M/VVdTjXgsiPI/AAAAAAAA6fs/JcJFnC7nNLI/s1600/DSC_1161.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Pallet Wood Camp Signs" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fbNTkNFbC2M/VVdTjXgsiPI/AAAAAAAA6fs/JcJFnC7nNLI/s640/DSC_1161.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Pallet Wood Camp Signs" width="424" /></a></div>
Is that not just the cutest rocking horse? It is a locally-made piece gifted to us by my friend Kelly. I just love it! And now Camp Blough can offer an equestrian program! <br />
<br />
The vintage picture is of a bunch of Boy Scouts taken in 1920. We found it in our attic. I love looking at all their serious little faces. I also love how they are holding the American flag backwards in the picture. :-)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gDog9fvInJQ/VVdTgxgjtKI/AAAAAAAA6fk/sNk6gc0mSWY/s1600/DSC_1162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Vintage Boy Scout Photo" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gDog9fvInJQ/VVdTgxgjtKI/AAAAAAAA6fk/sNk6gc0mSWY/s640/DSC_1162.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Vintage Boy Scout Photo" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally, as you walk into the room you'll see that our bookcase is stocked and ready to go!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ymb5FYMy58/VViWJ0xPnjI/AAAAAAAA61g/4NYHpRm_sKQ/s1600/DSC_1205.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Built In Shelves" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ymb5FYMy58/VViWJ0xPnjI/AAAAAAAA61g/4NYHpRm_sKQ/s640/DSC_1205.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Built In Shelves" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
The baskets below will be great for storing extra blankets for now and toys in the the future.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V1zGUGD0Is4/VViWJ3tEimI/AAAAAAAA61g/Z7X4_PFlAIo/s1600/DSC_1214.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Storage" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V1zGUGD0Is4/VViWJ3tEimI/AAAAAAAA61g/Z7X4_PFlAIo/s640/DSC_1214.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Storage" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tJTeBOu7dP8/VViWJ3IsmFI/AAAAAAAA61g/YEiNtLmvK78/s1600/DSC_1200.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Built In Shelves. Storage" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tJTeBOu7dP8/VViWJ3IsmFI/AAAAAAAA61g/YEiNtLmvK78/s640/DSC_1200.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Built In Shelves. Storage" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Above, we have a nice selection of books thanks to so many wonderful friends! And a couple other nick nacks I've collected.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ISUhfTDp_XI/VVjWRJ3SupI/AAAAAAAA66o/7QFgbdieI3M/s1600/DSC_1186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ISUhfTDp_XI/VVjWRJ3SupI/AAAAAAAA66o/7QFgbdieI3M/s640/DSC_1186.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This metal file drawer was another attic find and is now storing medicine and first aid supplies. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7vLpc0h7TRg/VViWJ0tuwTI/AAAAAAAA61g/vD-O_WmSqS8/s1600/DSC_1215.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. " border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7vLpc0h7TRg/VViWJ0tuwTI/AAAAAAAA61g/vD-O_WmSqS8/s640/DSC_1215.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. " width="640" /></a> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IdkvPhdfTkE/VVdUNnN9j9I/AAAAAAAA6gY/Tl6f3bPPa88/s1600/DSC_1182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Built In Shelves" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IdkvPhdfTkE/VVdUNnN9j9I/AAAAAAAA6gY/Tl6f3bPPa88/s640/DSC_1182.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Built In Shelves" width="640" /></a></div>
That little car is actually Michael's dad's pinewood derby car from when he was a Boy Scout.<br />
<br />
And a lot of the Boy Scout books were either Michael's or his dad's. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmTx7TG-zGs/VVdV0xs7JLI/AAAAAAAA6hA/rh8ly5aFHcM/s1600/DSC_1185.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Vintage Boy Scout Book" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmTx7TG-zGs/VVdV0xs7JLI/AAAAAAAA6hA/rh8ly5aFHcM/s640/DSC_1185.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Vintage Boy Scout Book" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
I also found this printable that summarizes everything I'm feeling. Every time I read it, there are tears. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PZnysiLL-to/VVdUEgs1vJI/AAAAAAAA6gQ/L5qim66t6c8/s1600/DSC_1180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. As soon as I saw you I knew an adventure was about to happen." border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PZnysiLL-to/VVdUEgs1vJI/AAAAAAAA6gQ/L5qim66t6c8/s640/DSC_1180.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. As soon as I saw you I knew an adventure was about to happen." width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Around the corner you remember the chalkboard that I painted and wrote out the Boy Scout Law. And that canoe up top?... just something that my mom had. Who just has stuff like that?! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAE-Dj_bvyo/VVfwslenahI/AAAAAAAA6r0/4cjkeiHH5hU/s1600/DSC_1187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Boy Scout Law. Built In Bookshelf. Chalkboard. " border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAE-Dj_bvyo/VVfwslenahI/AAAAAAAA6r0/4cjkeiHH5hU/s640/DSC_1187.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Boy Scout Law. Built In Bookshelf. Chalkboard. " width="424" /></a></div>
I will show you how we organized the closet some other day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-41Qmjr15rhI/VViP7wfFz6I/AAAAAAAA6zE/pG-EMdjSS6g/s1600/DSC_1248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Boy Scout Law. Built In Bookshelf. Chalkboard. " border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-41Qmjr15rhI/VViP7wfFz6I/AAAAAAAA6zE/pG-EMdjSS6g/s640/DSC_1248.jpg" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Boy Scout Law. Built In Bookshelf. Chalkboard. " width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
How about that adorable little felt campfire set that my sister gave us?! Also note the felt s'more and felt marshmallow on a stick. How fun is that?! The twig stars were made by my Aunt Susie and Uncle Jace. They used them to decorate their shower gift and I told them I knew I could find a spot for them in the nursery. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YZ-oJCAvwJo/VVfwsWLHIoI/AAAAAAAA6rw/giNnDieGm_g/s1600/DSC_1177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Play felt Campfire. Twig Stars." border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YZ-oJCAvwJo/VVfwsWLHIoI/AAAAAAAA6rw/giNnDieGm_g/s640/DSC_1177.JPG" title="Outdoorsy, camping, boy scout nursery. Play felt Campfire. Twig Stars." width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
We are thrilled with how everything has come together! But here's the thing, what I love most about this room is the hand that others have played in getting it to this point. I love that this room came together with the help of inherited furniture, family keepsakes and memories, and many many gifts (handmade and otherwise) from people that love us and love our little guy. I look around and I see other people in this room and know this is just the first step in their part in his life. What a lucky dude he is - to have so much love coming his way.<br />
<br />
My heart is very thankful. <br />
<br />
<br />
Here's a source list from our nursery:<br />
<br />
Crib: Wayfair (<a href="http://comfortfirst.com/p-151060-angel-line-jenny-lind-crib-fixed-side.aspx?gclid=Cj0KEQjw1duqBRDPlLKsuJCUiuABEiQAxgHwJ-75ZaUrAw9k4dQsA8471z76wS03mDdSRGkeuGrp6FoaApgL8P8HAQ">similar</a>)<br />
Rug: <a href="http://www.homedecorators.com/detail.php?sku=1524860270&aid=google.push&cm_mmc=SEM|HDC|G|PLA&gclid=Cj0KEQjw1duqBRDPlLKsuJCUiuABEiQAxgHwJ-ADZhKHUoshDK6Yuy40g48u46CxLjVmUd90qZfAqj4aAjOJ8P8HAQ&kwid=productads-plaid^80964450259-sku^1524860270-adType^PLA-device^c-adid^62114365339">Home Decorators</a> <br />
Sheepskin Rug: <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/7939338/?catalogId=5&sku=7939338&bnrid=3380801&cm_ven=Google_PLA&cm_cat=Shopping&cm_pla=Feed&cm_ite=Google%20Base-7939338&gclid=Cj0KEQjw1duqBRDPlLKsuJCUiuABEiQAxgHwJ6WIlFV6nfwsastSYsM6X2klbeYX5tFxrXdVQRbhuEQaAn7j8P8HAQ&kwid=productads-plaid^91703237371-sku^7939338-adType^PLA-device^c-adid^42416270251">Similar</a><br />
Arrows: <a href="http://www.ebay.com/bhp/vintage-arrows">Ebay</a><br />
Paint Color: <a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/louisburggreen">Louisburg Green - Benjamin Moore </a><br />
Light: Habitat ReStore, DIY'ed <br />
Curtain: DIY'd from drop cloth bought at Lowe's<br />
Swivel Rocker: Local - <a href="http://larimerfurniture.com/">Larimer Furniture </a><br />
Ottoman: <a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Majestic-Home-Products-Striped-Cube-Ottoman-8590722012-JZZ1457.html?piid[]=9413751">Wayfair </a><br />
Large Changing Table Baskets: <a href="http://www.target.com/p/smith-hawken-square-decorative-basket-with-chalkboard-dark-finish/-/A-15191237?lnk=Rec|pdp|15191237|viewed_viewed|pdpv1|1">Target</a><br />
Small Changing Table Baskets: <a href="http://www.target.com/p/smith-hawken-woven-wall-organizer-decorative-basket-with-small-chalkboard/-/A-16249125#prodSlot=medium_1_23&term=basket">Target</a><br />
Changing Table Artwork: <a href="http://www.freevintageposters.com/">Free Vintage Posters.com</a><br />
Frames:<a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30295736/"> IKEA</a><br />
Wall Light: <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40163882/">IKEA</a><br />
Book Shelf Fabric Bins: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N3R9TAE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon </a><br />
Adventure Printable: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/44050902582207082/">Oh So Lovely Blog</a><br />
Quilt Inspiration: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/44050902582245045/">Pinterest</a><br />
Felt Fire Pit: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/search?q=play%20camp%20fire">Similar on Etsy</a><br />
Rocking Horse: Locally Made<br />
Camping Signs: DIY'd<br />
<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/02/babys-first-planked-wall.html">Planked Wall Tutorial</a><br />
<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/04/15-minute-no-sew-adjustable-crib-skirt.html">Crib Skirt Tutorial</a><br />
<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/03/our-first-built-in-bookcase.html">Built In Bookshelf Tutorial</a><br />
<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/03/5-things-i-learned-about-making.html">Chalkboard Tutorial </a><br />
<br />
<br />
Linked to: <a href="http://homeremediesrx.com/2015/05/talented-tuesday-link-party-29/">Talented Tuesdays</a>, <a href="http://lifeonvirginiastreet.com/2015/05/pretty-preppy-party-may/">May Pretty Preppy Party</a>, <a href="http://www.petitemodernlife.com/2015/05/28/think-and-make-thursday-no-33/">Think & Make Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.com/2015/06/june-2015-before-and-after.html">June Before & After Party</a>, <br />
<br />
To see more about the nursery and how we organized it, <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/05/organizing-nursery.html">click here</a>. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6YFo8s4gbGw/VVjXkokwOJI/AAAAAAAA66w/iR5GcWWQ9yU/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6YFo8s4gbGw/VVjXkokwOJI/AAAAAAAA66w/iR5GcWWQ9yU/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" width="323" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-57564294700848185072015-05-11T15:41:00.001-07:002015-05-11T15:53:03.386-07:00April Showers, Thank You Notes, and Baby Books Hi there! Remember me? This little gal who likes to blog and share about her adventures in life, love and the pursuit of a completely renovated home? Well I kinda took a little break this last month, mostly because, life got a little too busy! Between baby showers, work, hosting friends, and preparing
for baby, I found it hard to sit down and find time to write up a
post. So sorry about that! <br />
<br />
But I'm here to update you all on what's been going on this last month! <br />
<br />
Lets start with the baby update! I'm still feeling good at 37 weeks and 4 days (other than it feels like someone is following me around with a space heater)! So basically, baby Blough could come any day now ladies and gentleman! Crazy!! The plan is to work up until he arrives, which could put us into the month of June. We'll see! Then, I'm taking 12 weeks off work to get the hang of this whole mom thing.<br />
<br />
The list of things we need before our baby boy gets here is narrowing. And that is largely due to the fact that we were thrown three baby showers to help us stock our home for baby. Each one wonderfully different from the next.<br />
<br />
The first shower was thrown by my mom, sister and aunt. They outdid themselves with decor to match the outdoorsman theme of the nursery.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Kp1-RSUzO0/VVEgeMQN7WI/AAAAAAAA6YA/15CG4lXXHWU/s1600/20150506-092429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Kp1-RSUzO0/VVEgeMQN7WI/AAAAAAAA6YA/15CG4lXXHWU/s640/20150506-092429.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Look they even stole our Teepee!! And a felt play fire pit?.. please, kill me with cuteness. Many of the things they used to decorate were gifts to us for the nursery. How sweet is that!?!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aiLvrgxKLTo/VVEyvAdwG0I/AAAAAAAA6Y8/GN3EXMH716w/s1600/picmonkey_image(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aiLvrgxKLTo/VVEyvAdwG0I/AAAAAAAA6Y8/GN3EXMH716w/s640/picmonkey_image(9).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The second shower was thrown by some very dear friends of mine and was a coming together of friends from high school, college, work and post college. The nursery rhyme theme was adorable. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
And each guest brought a book (instead of a card) to help Michael and I stock our little guy's bookcase that we built for him.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNwQbIf-67Q/VUolDHI0lOI/AAAAAAAA6T0/gAOOEJ3PszM/s1600/DSC_1119.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNwQbIf-67Q/VUolDHI0lOI/AAAAAAAA6T0/gAOOEJ3PszM/s1600/DSC_1119.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
And finally the last shower, just a few weeks ago, was thrown by my mother-in-law and cousin-in-law. These girls know me well and planned three games to play! <i>I love games</i>!! We got so many great items that we still needed in order to finish out our registry and I'm so thankful. Not to mention, we got this sweet little diaper motorcycle that Michael's cousin made in honor of Michael's dad!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0NQ1NSColVM/VUoYxtV2WBI/AAAAAAAA6Is/y5fqv__tgZw/s1600/DSC_1108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0NQ1NSColVM/VUoYxtV2WBI/AAAAAAAA6Is/y5fqv__tgZw/s1600/DSC_1108.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I love love love that!<br />
I also loved these cupcakes they made! Adorable! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KpW8wGOilso/VUoYpz5He3I/AAAAAAAA6Ik/F1o453LzqSo/s1600/IMG_2397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KpW8wGOilso/VUoYpz5He3I/AAAAAAAA6Ik/F1o453LzqSo/s1600/IMG_2397.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And many of you know... with many showers, comes many gifts (yay!) and with many gifts comes the writing of many thank you notes. That has been my big task the last month. I have really wanted to keep up with them and get them out as soon as I could. For the thank you notes, I really wanted something that gave a nod to the nursery and our outdoorsy theme but I didn't want to spend an arm and a leg on custom stationary.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X_y7vKcHWFA/VUoesVEuUvI/AAAAAAAA6PE/5wWpshPoWpw/s1600/IMG_0021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X_y7vKcHWFA/VUoesVEuUvI/AAAAAAAA6PE/5wWpshPoWpw/s1600/IMG_0021.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
So when I found a packet of 8 plain thank you notes at Michael's for $1.50, I wondered how I could customize them. I found a cute little arrow stamp, bought some black ink and went to town. Now I have completely customized stationary for a fraction of the cost.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2rrgRNzHvQ/VUoeOoKwQSI/AAAAAAAA6Oo/noVgEz5LiXc/s1600/IMG_0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2rrgRNzHvQ/VUoeOoKwQSI/AAAAAAAA6Oo/noVgEz5LiXc/s1600/IMG_0019.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ew6UfgSSsoE/VUoeQQHfNVI/AAAAAAAA6Ow/Pss5Xit754w/s1600/IMG_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ew6UfgSSsoE/VUoeQQHfNVI/AAAAAAAA6Ow/Pss5Xit754w/s1600/IMG_0020.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Another little project that I am SUPER excited about is my baby book. At the shower thrown by my family, they had a lot of my own baby memories laid out - including my baby book that my mom had diligently filled out (and that's saying something - being that I am the youngest of 3).<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cWXK4jKT-dw/VUobBXfBVQI/AAAAAAAA6LE/aQ2HS5RPkMQ/s1600/DSC_1052.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cWXK4jKT-dw/VUobBXfBVQI/AAAAAAAA6LE/aQ2HS5RPkMQ/s1600/DSC_1052.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Going through that made me realize how important it is to write down and keep track of all the happenings of this little guy's early life. I love reading what my mom had to say about me - her observations about me, what she found special, what she thought was funny. I really want to do that for our kids as well. But what I did not want to do was spend $60 on a baby book customized by somebody else - like what I was finding on Etsy!<br />
<br />
I had a very specific idea about what I wanted in the baby book and what I didn't. So when I saw that Young House Love shared their template for their own <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2010/06/something-free-five-lifesavers/">DIY custom baby book</a> that you could tweek, I was all in. And it was so easy!! (I didn't want to scrap book) I just wanted something simple, with fun prompts, and fun colors and patterns. Voilà ! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T9h0VVjY0-w/VUokvyq9ZLI/AAAAAAAA6TY/SAcr-XWmY0g/s1600/DSC_1113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T9h0VVjY0-w/VUokvyq9ZLI/AAAAAAAA6TY/SAcr-XWmY0g/s1600/DSC_1113.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITRUjA8MJZM/VUolSqtXeEI/AAAAAAAA6T8/lHbho9QjYbc/s1600/DSC_1114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITRUjA8MJZM/VUolSqtXeEI/AAAAAAAA6T8/lHbho9QjYbc/s1600/DSC_1114.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I am absolutely in love with it! I bought the 8x8 book, a pad of fun paper, some white cardstock, and extra pages - all for less than $25 total with coupons and sales. I made little pockets on some pages and left space to add pictures and write stories on others. So excited about it! My favorite page is an idea from YHL- it's a predictions page that Michael and I filled out about who we think our little guy will be.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4dEuwLIYh1Q/VUok53iz4SI/AAAAAAAA6Ts/9xCraee5zxY/s1600/DSC_1117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4dEuwLIYh1Q/VUok53iz4SI/AAAAAAAA6Ts/9xCraee5zxY/s1600/DSC_1117.JPG" width="640" /></a>I just couldn't love it more and I can't wait to add to it with each new milestone and memory.<br />
<br />
And now, I think for today, I will leave you with all that. The nursery is 95% finished and I look forward to being back soon with a complete reveal! Who knows...there could even be a baby in it! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-38271413339197189382015-04-05T12:15:00.001-07:002015-04-09T18:00:56.219-07:0015 Minute No-Sew Adjustable Crib Skirt Happy Easter everyone! Wishing you a day filled with family, ham, eggs, and the good news that He is risen!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
________________________________________________________________ </div>
<br />
There seems to be this go to phrase in blogland and pinterest that get people instantly more interested in a project: "No Sew." <br />
<br />
No-Sew curtains, No-Sew pillows, No-Sew clothing. If it can be sewed, then it can probably be no sewed. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qtLbfN4etpA/VSBumPqP3nI/AAAAAAAA6Bg/VQ7m3aoYXFI/s1600/picmonkey_image(8).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Sew Crib Skirt. Outdoor Theme Nursery. Planked Wall" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qtLbfN4etpA/VSBumPqP3nI/AAAAAAAA6Bg/VQ7m3aoYXFI/s1600/picmonkey_image(8).jpg" height="640" title="No Sew Crib Skirt. Outdoor Theme Nursery. Planked Wall" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, I got another one for yah! This is my No-Sew Adjustable Crib Skirt that I made in less that 15 minutes. I really have no idea how much it cost me (a few dollars probably) since I used materials I already had on hand.<br />
<br />
I used a 84 x 24 inch burlap table runner that I had made for<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2014/11/a-couples-shower.html"> my sister in law's bridal shower</a> last November. And some clothespins.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VUY01JmCTP8/VSBdxmCVoII/AAAAAAAA54c/uTAj3JHDhGs/s1600/DSC_1077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VUY01JmCTP8/VSBdxmCVoII/AAAAAAAA54c/uTAj3JHDhGs/s1600/DSC_1077.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I simply slipped the material between the metal frame and the wood frame so that the fabric was not quite touching the floor. Then I used the clothespins to pin it in place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JT-uFip4VW8/VSBdv0xtJ1I/AAAAAAAA54U/wbbOo34Hrqk/s1600/DSC_1079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JT-uFip4VW8/VSBdv0xtJ1I/AAAAAAAA54U/wbbOo34Hrqk/s1600/DSC_1079.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
I started along the front of the crib. I worked my way down the front, clipping the burlap in place and then cut it to the appropriate length. I didn't measure, I just cut the excess off when I was finished pinning the front fabric in place. Then I repeated the process on the other side of the crib. I didn't bother with the sides that are covered by the walls. Because, why?<br />
<br />
And then I was done! See!?<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O8CCpPTJyW8/VSBd5goVSAI/AAAAAAAA54k/eGcVghXKAOg/s1600/DSC_1081.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Sew Crib Skirt. Outdoor Theme Nursery. " border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O8CCpPTJyW8/VSBd5goVSAI/AAAAAAAA54k/eGcVghXKAOg/s1600/DSC_1081.JPG" height="424" title="No Sew Crib Skirt. Outdoor Theme Nursery." width="640" /></a></div>
The best part is that it took me 15 minutes! And the second best part is that when it comes time to lower the mattress, it's totally adjustable! No sloppy floor mopping crib skirt for us! <br />
<br />
And that, my friends, is why No-Sew projects are awesome. <br />
<br />
If you wanted to use something other than burlap and keep it a no sew project, you could use no-sew tape. Or you could be super fancy and sew a couple of straight stitches. <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/44050902581645513/">Here</a> (and <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/44050902581645450/">here</a>) are a couple of additional tutorials on how to make your own crib skirt. Those are the ones I referenced. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EXBaZZuBOzE/VSBlDS-8_TI/AAAAAAAA58I/zKSStDOfDKs/s1600/DSC_1084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Sew Crib Skirt. Outdoor Theme Nursery. Planked Wall" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EXBaZZuBOzE/VSBlDS-8_TI/AAAAAAAA58I/zKSStDOfDKs/s1600/DSC_1084.jpg" height="640" title="No Sew Crib Skirt. Outdoor Theme Nursery. Planked Wall" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
You may notice a couple of new additions to the nursery. We got our rug in place which I ordered from <a href="http://www.homedecorators.com/p/mission-area-rug/">Home Decorators</a>. And I threw a little sheep skin rug over that in front of the crib. It's something I've had for years and have finally found the perfect place for it!<br />
<br />
Then there is my "Adventure is out there" map. Believe it or not, I have actually had this guy for a couple of years now. I gifted it to Michael when we first moved into our house. It is a nod to our favorite movie (UP!) and works perfectly with our <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/01/nursery-great-scout-doorsman.html">Great Scout-Doorsman theme</a>. I was a little worried about the colors in the map working with the room, but I think they actually work pretty well! I'm making additional progress on bringing more color into the room with other artwork as well. More on that another day! <br />
<br />
Linked to: <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.com/2015/04/april-15-before-and-after.html">Thrifty Decor Chic-Before & After Party</a></span>, <a href="http://www.petitemodernlife.com/2015/04/09/think-and-make-thursday-no-26/">Think and Make Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.tableandhearth.com/2015/04/on-display-thursday-link-party-no-38.html/">On Display Thursday</a>, <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-22858831867317971712015-03-31T15:02:00.001-07:002015-03-31T15:02:59.633-07:00Laura Lately: March EditionHi everybody! Welp, there goes March... and here comes spring! That means that the temperatures are getting warmer and my belly is getting bigger! So lets do a little recap as to what I've been up to lately. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h2>
Lately I can't get enough of...</h2>
Cleaning!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJrYg0Lv4fc/VRmuKkPMuqI/AAAAAAAA5zQ/eCaK9Ot3v-g/s1600/DSC_1094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJrYg0Lv4fc/VRmuKkPMuqI/AAAAAAAA5zQ/eCaK9Ot3v-g/s1600/DSC_1094.jpg" height="640" width="430" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Who am I!? I don't think I've ever said that in my life! </i><br />
<br />
I just really have hit a major nesting streak that has motivated me to mop, dust, clean, etc.<br />
Next up? Windows! I think that since we are about two months out from a lot of craziness, I am trying to find some peace and cleanliness around the house. <br />
<br />
<h2>
Lately I've been watching...</h2>
I've always been into American History, so it doesn't surprise me much that I've been really into some of the History Channel documentaries on Netflix.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/A-New-War-Begins/dp/B009S37VSE"><img alt="http://www.amazon.com/A-New-War-Begins/dp/B009S37VSE" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ZhmxSBorL._SX940_.jpg" height="300" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 26px;" width="400" /></a></div>
In particular, <a href="http://www.history.com/shows/men-who-built-america/about">The Men Who Built American</a> (about the great -and at times not so great- euntrapenuers of the industrial age). Michael and I are super into it. The vision and ambition of these men is amazing! And it's highly entertaining the way their stories intertwined and created the America that we know today. <br />
<br />
<h2>
Lately I've been shopping for...</h2>
I've been working hard to update our baby registries and make sure we have what we need on there... but not more than we really need. It's a hard balance, you know? Plus, I have no idea what we need for the most part, so that's challenging. Other than that, we have finally purchased most of the big items for the nursery: light, rug, glider, ottoman, changing table. I'm excited to update you on all of that next week!<br />
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
Lately I've been munching on...</h2>
Some of you may have seen via <a href="https://instagram.com/laurablough/">instagram</a> that my mom came over this week to teach me her spaghetti sauce recipe.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0uogqGNWLqo/VRWDn3ftDWI/AAAAAAAA5b0/G4pnwutuPog/s1600/DSC_1111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0uogqGNWLqo/VRWDn3ftDWI/AAAAAAAA5b0/G4pnwutuPog/s1600/DSC_1111.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
Every weekend that I work, we have a carry-in. It was my turn to supply the main dish and I really wanted to bring in something delicious and hearty. And all I could think of was lasagna. In particular, my mom's lasagna. Which gave me a perfect excuse to finally learn the secrets to how my mom makes the most delicious sauce and lasagna. I don't know if you know this but I'm going to be a mom soon too, so I should know things -like how to make a delicious lasagna. <br />
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
Lately I've been looking forward to...</h2>
April Showers! And not the kind that require an umbrella! I am lucky enough to have three showers coming up in the month of April and I really can't wait! I just love a good shower... the games, the food, the fun, and hey, I'll admit it.. the presents! I've been doing a really good job of not buying clothing for our little guy! I've only bought two things. <i>Two!</i> One onesie and one pair of shoes.. because, um.... little shoes!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uycVxgla8Fg/VRXEGEX291I/AAAAAAAA5cM/fr2zm0LkLE0/s1600/DSC_1081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uycVxgla8Fg/VRXEGEX291I/AAAAAAAA5cM/fr2zm0LkLE0/s1600/DSC_1081.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2>
Lately I've been thinking about... </h2>
I'm going to be honest here. If you would ask me if I am excited for this little guy's arrival, I would say "Oh yes, of course!" But I figured out that, for me, being excited about becoming a mom is kind of on the same lines as being excited to start a new job. I'm excited in theory, but sometimes the reality of it - the parts of motherhood that I know are coming and that are easier for me to understand- doesn't get me excited. I don't truly understand the overwhelming and deep love that I'm told I will undoubtedly experience. But what I do understand is sleep deprivation, a crying baby, and a new overwhelming sense of responsibility. So I'm praying that everyone is right.... that my motherly instinct to love above any level of difficulty will kick in. <br />
<br />
But I will say, that as time has been coming closer to our due date, I have felt myself feeling more and more bonded with the idea that this little man is our son, and I'm his mom.. and that is something very very special. So I guess it's a lot of mixed emotions, which I'm assuming is normal. <i>Right?</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<h2>
Lately I've been posting about....</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--b60ZSoM7O0/VRmy6hBUf3I/AAAAAAAA5zo/4v-zdeAkxmQ/s1600/DSC_1012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--b60ZSoM7O0/VRmy6hBUf3I/AAAAAAAA5zo/4v-zdeAkxmQ/s1600/DSC_1012.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
In case you missed these March posts:<br />
<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/03/5-things-i-learned-about-making.html">5 Things I learned When I Made a DIY Chalkboard</a><br />
<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/03/bob-vila-our-master-bath.html">Bob Vila & Our Master Bath</a><br />
<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/03/our-first-built-in-bookcase.html">Our First Built In Bookcase </a><br />
<a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/03/laura-lately-golden-week-edition.html">Golden Week </a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-14081818218236568642015-03-22T15:55:00.002-07:002015-03-24T11:40:02.337-07:005 Things I Learned About Making A Chalkboard. Michael and I are big into doing our research. We love consumer reports, we love reading reviews, we love hearing people's advice, we love to learn from experts. So when I get a bright idea to start a project, that just means that it's time to start researching. <br />
<br />
A couple weeks ago I shared our <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/03/our-first-built-in-bookcase.html">bookcase project </a>with you. Remember? It looked like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xlEVKE0zeSI/VQ8A-6NWqzI/AAAAAAAA5Q0/oyc-BeVlpO4/s1600/DSC_1006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xlEVKE0zeSI/VQ8A-6NWqzI/AAAAAAAA5Q0/oyc-BeVlpO4/s1600/DSC_1006.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
It took quite a bit of research on our part to accomplish this build.<br />
<br />
My next ideas was to utilize the side of the bookcase in a different way - a magnetic chalkboard that we, and our little guy, could use.<br />
<br />
In discussing this project with others, reading some online reviews, and looking at tutorials I found on pinterest, I learned a lot about the Magnetic Chalkboard DIY process.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Hqv-ecmftA/VQ8CLukPh5I/AAAAAAAA5SE/DNuPcCBXoK8/s1600/DSC_1018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Hqv-ecmftA/VQ8CLukPh5I/AAAAAAAA5SE/DNuPcCBXoK8/s1600/DSC_1018.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And today, I'm going to share with you all the things I learned, in case you are ever interested in pursuing a similar project: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YIcE4hkqwHM/VQ8o07vkexI/AAAAAAAA5bA/ersdvagFnxY/s1600/Blank%2BChalkboarde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YIcE4hkqwHM/VQ8o07vkexI/AAAAAAAA5bA/ersdvagFnxY/s1600/Blank%2BChalkboarde.jpg" height="640" width="365" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
1. You can buy magnetic primer but it requires a lot of coats in order to be effective. </h4>
I was very excited when I purchased magnetic primer at Michael's. When I told my mom about my plans, she quickly shared with me her experience with it. She said that she had applied three coats (which is recommended on the can) and found the magnetic effect was very weak. I went online to read other people's experiences and the consensus was, unless you apply 6+ coats of the magnetic primer, you can expect a very weak magnetizing effect. And even then, only certain magnets will work. <br />
<h4>
2. To get a good strong magnetic surface, use sheet metal. </h4>
From tutorials I have read, it seems like the most effective way to get a magnetic surface is to purchase sheet metal. We looked at Lowe's to get some for our surfaces and it looked as though we'd have to spend about $60 for the sheet metal. We decided that we may just save that project for later. In the future though, if we are really craving a magnetic chalkboard, we'll buy the metal and then paint it up with some chalkboard paint.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FQAA72LfCcE/VQ8B7JHE7TI/AAAAAAAA5Rw/HmSvF2jcGps/s1600/DSC_1015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FQAA72LfCcE/VQ8B7JHE7TI/AAAAAAAA5Rw/HmSvF2jcGps/s1600/DSC_1015.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<h4>
3. Chalkboard Paint.</h4>
I had originally purchased the chalkboard paint at Michael's, but it was pretty pricey. I read good things about the Valspar brand of chalkboard paint which costs significantly less than what I paid at Michael's... even with a 30% off coupon. While I was planning to return my originally purchased paint to Michael's and go back to Lowes for the Valspar brand, I ended up using some of my mom's left over chalkboard paint that she had - which was Valspar. I applied 3 coats using an angled brush and foam roller. The coverage was really good and cleanup was easy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgO-C7F3elA/VQ8B59szJII/AAAAAAAA5Rg/2MqEh3TL86w/s1600/DSC_1013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgO-C7F3elA/VQ8B59szJII/AAAAAAAA5Rg/2MqEh3TL86w/s1600/DSC_1013.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
4. "Season" your chalkboard</h4>
Another big thing I learned in researching this project was about "seasoning" your freshly painted chalkboard. For any DIY chalkboard, it is important to apply an all-over coating of chalk before drawing or writing on your chalkboard. Why? Well if you don't, it will be VERY difficult to erase the first things drawn/written on the chalkboard - a DIY chalkboard is porous and will hold onto the chalk that you apply. <i>Note: This is true for DIY chalkboards and some store bought ones, but not all. So I would say, if in doubt, season it...it's better to be safe than sorry. </i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xihDTdcO7ag/VQ8COySGA3I/AAAAAAAA5SQ/aT2jVrh7-3g/s1600/DSC_1020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xihDTdcO7ag/VQ8COySGA3I/AAAAAAAA5SQ/aT2jVrh7-3g/s1600/DSC_1020.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
To season your board, simply run some chalk across the surface of your board horizontally and vertically to cover it entirely. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MmjCxGr91qI/VQ8CfC6yEII/AAAAAAAA5Sk/0hoPS40JGXk/s1600/DSC_1022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MmjCxGr91qI/VQ8CfC6yEII/AAAAAAAA5Sk/0hoPS40JGXk/s1600/DSC_1022.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
Then erase. I used a wet rag to wipe it clean. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9nSGqWl06Sc/VQ8N-DKpeiI/AAAAAAAA5Xc/w_Z0imMLNkc/s1600/DSC_1023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9nSGqWl06Sc/VQ8N-DKpeiI/AAAAAAAA5Xc/w_Z0imMLNkc/s1600/DSC_1023.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
See how it leaves some residual chalk? That's a good thing! That will prevent your words/drawings from being permanently engrained on your board.<br />
<br />
<h4>
5. DO NOT use chalk pens on a DIY'ed Chalkboard</h4>
Because many DIY'ed chalkboards are painted on either wood or drywall... stay clear of chalk pens. Yes, they are nice and neat and easy to use, but they are not meant for porous surfaces - such as wood or drywall. They will become impossible to erase. The only way to get rid of it is to repaint. Bummer.<br />
<br />
So then how do you get a pretty detailed drawing or lettering on your chalkboard?<br />
<br />
Here was my solution:<br />
- Select your lettering and print from your computer<br />
-Tape it to your surface to act as a spacing guide <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s_h5c2XtFrs/VQ8N12bsizI/AAAAAAAA5XM/isLeimWW09E/s1600/DSC_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s_h5c2XtFrs/VQ8N12bsizI/AAAAAAAA5XM/isLeimWW09E/s1600/DSC_1024.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
-Use a chalk pencil. I purchased <a href="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/products/white-pastel-chalk-pencils-1052653/">these at Hobby Lobby</a>. It was easier to be more accurate using these compared to working with regular chalk, plus it was a lot less messy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3EY-zh8oI9s/VQ8SQbOCwsI/AAAAAAAA5X4/T2XeH_3dwlY/s1600/DSC_1027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3EY-zh8oI9s/VQ8SQbOCwsI/AAAAAAAA5X4/T2XeH_3dwlY/s1600/DSC_1027.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
-Lift the paper and start freehanding your lettering, using the printed paper as a guide. Once I started my lettering, I moved the paper below where I was writing so that I could more easily see the example for scale and spacing. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yuLCJpEWEY0/VQ8N284GJjI/AAAAAAAA5XU/r1jMSzkrX1U/s1600/DSC_1026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yuLCJpEWEY0/VQ8N284GJjI/AAAAAAAA5XU/r1jMSzkrX1U/s1600/DSC_1026.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now to be fair, this probably wouldn't be the best strategy for more intricate lettering or drawings but for the purposes of what I was doing, it worked super well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MUsNgZCNZyM/VQ8SF-E4HxI/AAAAAAAA5Xo/k02yOcZlloI/s1600/DSC_1032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MUsNgZCNZyM/VQ8SF-E4HxI/AAAAAAAA5Xo/k02yOcZlloI/s1600/DSC_1032.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
And just what exactly am I doing here?<br />
<br />
Well, for our little <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/01/nursery-great-scout-doorsman.html">"Great Scout-Doorsman" nursery</a>, I wanted to put the Boy Scout Law somewhere in the room which reads (or which your husband recites from memory):<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
"A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent." </div>
<br />
What wonderful things to be praying and hoping for our little guy to be.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9BB5-CpAg4M/VQ8YLbrq2DI/AAAAAAAA5ZM/08xMXQibDZ8/s1600/DSC_1036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9BB5-CpAg4M/VQ8YLbrq2DI/AAAAAAAA5ZM/08xMXQibDZ8/s1600/DSC_1036.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_9T_3YSSIc/VQ8YH5aFVWI/AAAAAAAA5ZE/6wiYrNUlt-o/s1600/DSC_1031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_9T_3YSSIc/VQ8YH5aFVWI/AAAAAAAA5ZE/6wiYrNUlt-o/s1600/DSC_1031.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
And would you look at that... it's Boy Scout approved! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QjsObeOsOFA/VQ8YRpBqPWI/AAAAAAAA5ZU/Pz2Uj8-w7g4/s1600/DSC_1038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QjsObeOsOFA/VQ8YRpBqPWI/AAAAAAAA5ZU/Pz2Uj8-w7g4/s1600/DSC_1038.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
Cute. <br />
<br />
I love how the black chalkboard adds another color/texture element to the room. And it's fun!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Zw2eLevzdc/VQ8icnOlsgI/AAAAAAAA5ag/MCpAqsCJar0/s1600/Built%2Bin%2Bbookshelf-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Zw2eLevzdc/VQ8icnOlsgI/AAAAAAAA5ag/MCpAqsCJar0/s1600/Built%2Bin%2Bbookshelf-001.jpg" height="640" width="494" /></a></div>
<br />
So what do you think? Are you ready to Chalkboard it up?! I think you are!<br />
<br />
<br />
Linked to: <a href="http://homeremediesrx.com/2015/03/talented-tuesday-link-party-21/">Talented Tuesday</a>, <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-59084924272730661002015-03-15T13:45:00.000-07:002015-03-15T13:45:50.688-07:00Bob Vila & Our Master BathSomething exciting happened this week. <i>And it's not just the fact that I decided that I'm never too young (or too proud) to start filling in my eyebrows to make them look fabulous.</i><br />
<br />
No, the exciting thing I am referring to is that Kathleen, an editor from <a href="http://bobvila.com/">BobVila.com</a>, emailed me earlier in the week wanting more information about our Master Bath renovation. She really liked what we did and wanted to interview me about it in order to feature it on the website.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYE5DNhfFMk/VQPmRxywMWI/AAAAAAAA4vA/WHibEJSYRBk/s1600/Downloaded%2BPics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYE5DNhfFMk/VQPmRxywMWI/AAAAAAAA4vA/WHibEJSYRBk/s1600/Downloaded%2BPics.jpg" height="494" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I was surprised and thrilled to get her email, and happy to do it.<br />
<br />
<h3>
To see the article <a href="http://www.bobvila.com/articles/small-bathroom-makeover/#.VQNu8mYtIy4">click here</a>. </h3>
<br />
Grab me a Q-tip, I got thankfulness comin' out ma ears!<br />
<br />
Thanks Kathleen for the feature, thanks Bob for the website, and thanks to all of you wonderful readers for reading, commenting, pinning and following along. I love keeping you all up to date on what we are doing around this little house-o-ours. <br />
<br />
<i>Side note: Does anyone else think of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KULAICCldtA">Tim the Tool Man Taylor's</a> constant rivalry with Bob Vila, any time you hear his name mentioned... or is it just me? #childofthe90s</i><br />
<br />
For more posts on our bathroom renovation click <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2013/10/bathroom-preview.html">here</a>, <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2014/09/building-our-own-floating-shelves-its.html">here </a>or <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2014/10/complete-bathroom-before-after.html">here for the complete before and after</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=ANurseAndANerd', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
<br />
<br />
Enter your email address:<br />
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br />
<br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-26411219563751594642015-03-09T14:31:00.001-07:002015-04-06T12:07:29.837-07:00Our First Built In Bookcase Guys
Guys Guys Guys Guys. I'm SO excited to present to you the most
ambitious solo project we have ever attempted, let alone conquered!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2PdwCa6JTKA/VP23qlS3ocI/AAAAAAAA4uk/SpMFDZ_DPko/s1600/picmonkey_image%286%29.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2PdwCa6JTKA/VP23qlS3ocI/AAAAAAAA4uk/SpMFDZ_DPko/s1600/picmonkey_image(6).jpg" height="640" title="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So a couple weeks ago when we were working on <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/02/babys-first-planked-wall.html">the planked wall</a>
for the nursery, Saint Steve and my Aunt Janet came over to check out
our project. We got to talking about this little area next to the door
to the nursery. I talked about how I felt like the space was wasted and
I wasn't sure how to use the space to get the most out of it. Not sure
who mentioned it first but eventually we got to talking about building a
bookcase there. And SS talked us through some of the materials, tools,
and process of building it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JA-q-5ZpOPM/VOYIgvtue9I/AAAAAAAA4XI/zMHhnsZ-avY/s1600/DSC_0974.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JA-q-5ZpOPM/VOYIgvtue9I/AAAAAAAA4XI/zMHhnsZ-avY/s1600/DSC_0974.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
The
big picture girl that I am... I was sold. "We can do this!"<br />
<br />
But Michael in his
detail-oriented-ness, he needed to figure it all out before he joined
the built-in bookcase train.<br />
<br />
Which, you know what? Is a really good thing.<br />
<br />
It took a lot, <i>let me repeat</i>, A LOT of planning. A LOT of measuring. A LOT of list making.<br />
<br />
So if you are looking for a "Step One" to building a built in bookcase, that would be it. Plan plan plan. <br />
<br />
One problem with our space was this little air return that we had to contend with. Do you see it?<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JA-q-5ZpOPM/VOYIgvtue9I/AAAAAAAA4XI/zMHhnsZ-avY/s1600/DSC_0974.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JA-q-5ZpOPM/VOYIgvtue9I/AAAAAAAA4XI/zMHhnsZ-avY/s1600/DSC_0974.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
I
really wanted my bookcase to be about 12inches deep but that meant that
the left side of the bookcase would be interrupted by that air return.
After several weeks of discussion, my fantastically smart husband suggested we bump out the bottom part
of the bookcase and extend it past the air return. We just won't put anything too obstructive in front of the air return. And even if we did, there is an air return right down the hall and right around the corner in our bedroom. <br />
<br />
So
we decided to build 18inch deep shelves at the base, and 12inch deep
shelves at the top, extending them up to the same height as the door. The bottom will provide a nice space for larger toys or bins of toys while the upper storage will be great for books, pictures, and more
precious nick nacks that need to stay away from clumsy growing hands.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Jv9m5mzrxE/VP2qxLcEHLI/AAAAAAAA4tk/UZ2RmiC2cR4/s1600/DSC_1013.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Jv9m5mzrxE/VP2qxLcEHLI/AAAAAAAA4tk/UZ2RmiC2cR4/s1600/DSC_1013.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Like
my rough sketch? If I were a better blogger it would be a neat
computer generated image using photoshop or some such fanciness. <br />
<br />
Once we figured out our measurements, we had to figure out materials.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GqhSjASANtg/VP2qs2CqpaI/AAAAAAAA4tc/zsuKkkSGbz0/s1600/DSC_1020.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GqhSjASANtg/VP2qs2CqpaI/AAAAAAAA4tc/zsuKkkSGbz0/s1600/DSC_1020.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
For this project we bought:<br />
1 sheet of 0.75" pine plywood (used for our side panels and some shelves)<br />
0.75" whitewood (used for shelf cleats)<br />
0.75" <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_72884-99899-179367_0__?productId=50089206&Ntt=72884&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3D72884&facetInfo=">kiln dried pine panels</a> (for the rest of the shelves)<br />
0.75" pine board (used for face pieces)<br />
2 x 4 (used for building base)<br />
<br />
We bought wide enough whiteboard and pine boards in order to cut cleats that were 1" x 0.75" and the face pieces were 1.5" x 0.75". For all the cutting, it was great to have access to a table saw - we borrowed one from SS. We used our trusty miter saw to cut everything to length! <br />
<br />
Our first step was to tear out the baseboard in the area we were going to build out the shelves. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S1IEkZa-eHE/VPoKrqc4A4I/AAAAAAAA4ik/liXGCOJuuHw/s1600/DSC_0960.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S1IEkZa-eHE/VPoKrqc4A4I/AAAAAAAA4ik/liXGCOJuuHw/s1600/DSC_0960.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
That
hurt a little bit. It hasn't been too long since that very trim was
just set in place and painted. Oh well, can't cry over painted trim. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once our baseboard was out of the way, we cut our first side panel and screwed that into the studs. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E0PXa6M5s-Q/VPoKy9gG8DI/AAAAAAAA4i0/V6dKOB-HBFk/s1600/DSC_0962.jpg" height="640" width="424" /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then we built our base. Some right angles and some screws, that's all it took. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oGCl5A4QQWI/VPoKwtc-HkI/AAAAAAAA4is/psMQvOsuNM8/s1600/DSC_0963.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oGCl5A4QQWI/VPoKwtc-HkI/AAAAAAAA4is/psMQvOsuNM8/s1600/DSC_0963.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
We leveled it out with some shims to make sure we were building on a good, even foundation. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyqxUps7sS0/VPoNzxYdx3I/AAAAAAAA4jA/qhiM-W7W0ZE/s1600/DSC_0965.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyqxUps7sS0/VPoNzxYdx3I/AAAAAAAA4jA/qhiM-W7W0ZE/s1600/DSC_0965.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
Once the base was built we nailed our bottom shelf down and our back cleats. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I4SMynmc7mI/VPoOIq432jI/AAAAAAAA4jI/vQq6B5FU-mg/s1600/DSC_0968.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I4SMynmc7mI/VPoOIq432jI/AAAAAAAA4jI/vQq6B5FU-mg/s1600/DSC_0968.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But that was after I had the bright idea to make a bit of a time stamp for this project! <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dbRkq-ifYs0/VPoOKsFoGkI/AAAAAAAA4jQ/E9YrdImhbQo/s1600/DSC_0967.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dbRkq-ifYs0/VPoOKsFoGkI/AAAAAAAA4jQ/E9YrdImhbQo/s1600/DSC_0967.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Then we attached the right side panel. We used 2" brad nails to attach most of the pieces. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XQ6jHfAZMa4/VPoIoLUdCEI/AAAAAAAA4iY/eCzNzYnGxKQ/s1600/DSC_0977.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XQ6jHfAZMa4/VPoIoLUdCEI/AAAAAAAA4iY/eCzNzYnGxKQ/s1600/DSC_0977.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
Then we attached our side cleats and the shelves. We mirrored this process for the top section of the shelf as well.<br />
<br />
Attach left panel to the wall.<br />
Attach back cleats.<br />
Attach side panel.<br />
Attach side cleats.<br />
Attach shelves.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1A1DSzBK9NA/VPoQBj2abhI/AAAAAAAA4jc/PjVOGcsICpA/s1600/DSC_0976.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1A1DSzBK9NA/VPoQBj2abhI/AAAAAAAA4jc/PjVOGcsICpA/s1600/DSC_0976.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
On
the top section of our shelves, we made the bottom shelf spacing 15",
the middle spacing 12", and the top spacing a bit over 12". We had read
the tutorial on <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2014/02/top-o-the-built-in-to-ya/">Young House Love</a>
and they had suggested the bottom spacing be a bit more generous in
order to visual look more balanced. We tried it out with some of
painters tape up on the wall and agreed. It looked better with more
space on the bottom then with equal spacing between them all. The top
spacing was a bit more generous because we wanted our shelves to line up
with our door frame and used that as a buffer. We like the way it
looks plus it will account for different size books and accessories. <br />
<br />
Once
we had the basic bookcase built, it was time to add the pretty to
it....Meaning the trim and face pieces. We started at the top. We allowed for a 0.25" overhang past the
crown piece for our top shelf. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QSC435JGP4s/VPoRYNJQVQI/AAAAAAAA4kU/aGKqiP6S4pA/s1600/DSC_0979.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QSC435JGP4s/VPoRYNJQVQI/AAAAAAAA4kU/aGKqiP6S4pA/s1600/DSC_0979.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
But before that went on we had to add what I called the
header piece which we attached from side panel to side panel. Then we moved down the bookcase adding the vertical face pieces first, followed by each horizontal face piece. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6gQQ1MJblz0/VPoRCR2PuPI/AAAAAAAA4kE/3um5_C2xClI/s1600/DSC_0978.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6gQQ1MJblz0/VPoRCR2PuPI/AAAAAAAA4kE/3um5_C2xClI/s1600/DSC_0978.jpg" height="640" title="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p9h4BMm-PcM/VPoQHwtX4qI/AAAAAAAA4jk/toOrf5NpVIk/s1600/DSC_0982.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p9h4BMm-PcM/VPoQHwtX4qI/AAAAAAAA4jk/toOrf5NpVIk/s1600/DSC_0982.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Then all we had to do was add the baseboard back on and the shoe molding. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2PQyZsnlAy0/VPoRWpKcuxI/AAAAAAAA4kM/FkTzUnghBcU/s1600/DSC_0991.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2PQyZsnlAy0/VPoRWpKcuxI/AAAAAAAA4kM/FkTzUnghBcU/s1600/DSC_0991.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
There may have been a lot of high fiving at this point!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3sCHGbPsRFU/VPoSSdyw1gI/AAAAAAAA4lk/aBr3GfGjlb4/s1600/DSC_0987.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3sCHGbPsRFU/VPoSSdyw1gI/AAAAAAAA4lk/aBr3GfGjlb4/s1600/DSC_0987.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
One
nice thing we did, that I was SUPER glad about, was cut a lot of the
boards the weekend before we did most of the building. That allowed me
to prime and paint most of the boards before it was built. This was a
huge help to me and my growing belly! That way, I only had to touch up
the spots where we filled nail holes and caulked. <br />
<br />
Oh and guess what else got painted.... the roooooooom!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnTEEfTmgH4/VPoUOFefNzI/AAAAAAAA4os/F3a8ErHPRYQ/s1600/DSC_1000.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnTEEfTmgH4/VPoUOFefNzI/AAAAAAAA4os/F3a8ErHPRYQ/s1600/DSC_1000.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
How 'bout that planked wall?! I loved her white but I'm digging her new color! <br />
<br />
The color is <a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/louisburggreen">Benjamin Moore Louisburg Green</a>.
I am absolutely in LOVE with this color. My mom came over this last
week and helped me knock out the painting (THANKS MOM!!!) and I kept
saying.. with a deep sigh... "Have I mentioned how much I'm loving this
color." :-) It's the nice army green color I was hoping for with a
smidgen of blue in it to keep it from going poop or pea in color (see
what I did there?). <i> </i><br />
<br />
<i>Fun fact about this color, if you are a fan of the show Modern Family, it is also the exact same color as <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=mitchell+and+cam%27s+living+room&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=bKv9VNzpKKqKsQTX14H4BA&ved=0CCEQsAQ&biw=1280&bih=672#imgdii=_&imgrc=rl516NLX8tT6tM%253A%3BS--KrnmkpmofjM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.gannett-cdn.com%252F-mm-%252Fe4fd6d1cfd9713a3d72b4f4f1550e4d9f8d445f2%252Fc%253D168-0-2814-1992%2526r%253Dx404%2526c%253D534x401%252Flocal%252F-%252Fmedia%252FUSATODAY%252FUSATODAY%252F2014%252F05%252F13%252F%252F1400007820000-INSIDE-MODERN-FAMILOY-WEDDING-TV-jy-4526-.JPG%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.usatoday.com%252Fstory%252Flife%252Ftv%252F2014%252F05%252F13%252Fmodern-family-big-mitchell-cam-wedding-on-set%252F8890595%252F%3B534%3B401">Cam and Mitchell's living room</a>. </i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KnQIf-h-Zz0/VP2wSoowA2I/AAAAAAAA4uE/rxDh06mkWKg/s1600/DSC_1007.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KnQIf-h-Zz0/VP2wSoowA2I/AAAAAAAA4uE/rxDh06mkWKg/s1600/DSC_1007.JPG" height="424" title="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KiXx5waladY/VP2wXsWzsgI/AAAAAAAA4uM/tOW1KGyqlE8/s1600/DSC_1006.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KiXx5waladY/VP2wXsWzsgI/AAAAAAAA4uM/tOW1KGyqlE8/s1600/DSC_1006.jpg" height="640" title="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A0avMR2k7QI/VP2wZsgyf2I/AAAAAAAA4uU/D7BOrKpw4k0/s1600/DSC_1012.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A0avMR2k7QI/VP2wZsgyf2I/AAAAAAAA4uU/D7BOrKpw4k0/s1600/DSC_1012.jpg" height="640" title="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
I
can't wait to get the book shelf filled with books, pictures, nick
nacks, toys, etc.. I plan to get some canvas bins for the bottom so we
can hide away toys in there. <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00N3R9X5A/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=TQTSD46UWZCL&coliid=IIS7063RQJ56X&psc=1">Here</a> are the ones I'm thinking of. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00N3R9X5A/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=TQTSD46UWZCL&coliid=IIS7063RQJ56X&psc=1"><img alt="http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00N3R9X5A/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=TQTSD46UWZCL&coliid=IIS7063RQJ56X&psc=1" border="0" class="fullScreen" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71zJgMbLk3L._SL1000_.jpg" height="190" style="margin-top: 10px;" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
And
because I love going back and seeing the old before pictures from when we bought our house -
before our renovation: Here's the before and after of this room when it
was still the master bedroom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c4kztxnJVVk/VP2vnUxk6wI/AAAAAAAA4t0/yyxngJ2vruk/s1600/picmonkey_image%284%29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c4kztxnJVVk/VP2vnUxk6wI/AAAAAAAA4t0/yyxngJ2vruk/s1600/picmonkey_image(4).jpg" height="640" title="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" width="494" /></a></div>
<br />
See
the door and air return are in the same place but we built out the
closet and stole some space from the room for our master closet. :-)
Memories. <br />
<br />
And then the before bookshelf and the after bookshelf picture.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHixx1x_rq4/VP2vnRFWvfI/AAAAAAAA4t4/ncKw9S5ebjk/s1600/picmonkey_image%285%29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHixx1x_rq4/VP2vnRFWvfI/AAAAAAAA4t4/ncKw9S5ebjk/s1600/picmonkey_image(5).jpg" height="510" title="Building A Built In Bookcase, Nursery" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
In total, we spent about $125 on building materials. <br />
That does
not
include the cost of the small crown piece that we used at the top of the bookcase or the
baseboard pieces at the bottom because we had some of those left over
from our renovation. And of
course, we are definitely saving a bundle conquering the job
ourselves!... not to mention gaining the immense satisfaction in seeing
our project come together! I don't think it will be our last project
of this magnitude... did someone say "fireplace built-ins?!"<br />
<br />
It was
me!!... (definitely wasn't Michael!) <br />
<br />
<br />
This was a
big week for getting things done in the nursery! I also purchased a rug
for the room and a light. But more on that another day. <br />
<br />
<i>Interested in more of our nursery projects? Click <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/01/nursery-great-scout-doorsman.html">here</a> and <a href="http://anurseandanerd.blogspot.com/2015/02/babys-first-planked-wall.html">here</a>. </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kpeV5-ZhFdA/VP23qpYiFQI/AAAAAAAA4uo/bS419EzBz60/s1600/picmonkey_image%287%29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kpeV5-ZhFdA/VP23qpYiFQI/AAAAAAAA4uo/bS419EzBz60/s1600/picmonkey_image(7).jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Linked to: <a href="http://www.coffeewithus3.com/pretty-pintastic-party-45/">Pretty Pintastic Party</a>, Oak&Oats, <a href="http://www.tableandhearth.com/2015/03/on-display-thursday-link-party-no-34.html/">On Display Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.petitemodernlife.com/2015/03/12/think-make-thursday-no-22/">Think&Make Thursday</a>, <a href="http://homeremediesrx.com/2015/03/talented-tuesday-link-party-21/">Talented Tuesday</a>, <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.com/2015/04/april-15-before-and-after.html">Thrifty Decor Chic-Before & After Party</a></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter your email address:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-54625511909405963202015-03-01T15:29:00.001-08:002015-03-01T15:29:54.596-08:00Laura Lately: Golden Week EditionHi everybody! February is over but that's not all... It's what I'm calling my Golden Week!<br />
<br />
Because for this week, my kiddo and I are 27 weeks and 27 years old, respectively! Yes, today and yesterday I am celebrating turning 27. (Since there is no <span style="color: #0000ee;"><u>February</u></span> 29th this year, I celebrate my birthday on both February 28th AND March 1st.) <br />
<br />
So happy non leap year everybody! And happy non birthday to me!<br />
<br />
The Golden Week. Normally during Laura Lately posts, I post about this last month and what I've been watching/reading/eating/thinking/feeling/looking forward to... but this month I thought I'd catch ya'll up on more pregnancy related happenings. <br />
<br />
<br />
Also, in celebration of the golden week, I decided it was high time for a
bump picture. I have been getting a number of requests... and you
gotta give the people what they want! So here ya go!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7j-O0NjXW6M/VPOYHSXsJzI/AAAAAAAA4gw/NdrZtZuZDYQ/s1600/picmonkey_image(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7j-O0NjXW6M/VPOYHSXsJzI/AAAAAAAA4gw/NdrZtZuZDYQ/s1600/picmonkey_image(2).jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Bump. In yo face. There's no hiding it!<br />
<br />
But really, who'd want to?<br />
<br />
I guess these ladies....!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=history%20maternity%20clothes&qs=n&form=QBIR&pq=history%20maternity%20clothes&sc=0-16&sp=-1&sk=#view=detail&id=DEBBB57F6487A48D0A72DE107ACE501DC2588653&selectedIndex=0" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=history%20maternity%20clothes&qs=n&form=QBIR&pq=history%20maternity%20clothes&sc=0-16&sp=-1&sk=#view=detail&id=DEBBB57F6487A48D0A72DE107ACE501DC2588653&selectedIndex=0" class="mainImage" data-bm="251" src="http://www.vintagedancer.com/wp-content/uploads/1940s-maternity-smock-crop-vintagedancer-313x500.jpg" style="background-color: white;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">click for source</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Although, $1.79 for a "blue fancy smock"?.. I may be able to be talked into that. ;-) </i> <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Lately I've been feeling...</h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Great!
My blood pressure has been good (we've been keeping our eye on it as I
had a couple of episodes of elevated blood pressure at work a while back).
Thanks to all those who I've asked to be praying for that. It's
working!! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Lately I've been asked....</h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If
we are sharing our boy's name. We are not. It's something we decided
to keep to ourselves until we can formally introduce him to the world.
But we do have it picked out. </div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Lately I've been advised to...</h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Not go snowmobiling. :-( </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And let Michael do more laundry. :-) </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Lately I've been worried about...</h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Getting
all the nursery in order before he gets here! We made some BIG progress
this weekend on the nursery though, so I'm beginning to feel more at
ease about it. </div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Lately I've been excited about.... </h4>
Meeting
our little man. For so long, 40 weeks has seemed so far away but now that
it is getting closer (and I'm feeling more and stronger kicks) I am getting more excited to start getting to know who this little guy is... and kiss on some fat baby cheeks! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Kwo96szK0E/VPOZo7J88TI/AAAAAAAA4hc/ilGOXouYQIE/s1600/picmonkey_image(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Kwo96szK0E/VPOZo7J88TI/AAAAAAAA4hc/ilGOXouYQIE/s1600/picmonkey_image(3).jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Crazy how time flies! Next week I will officially reach the 3rd trimester. <br />
<br />
Which is for real crazy. And weird. And great. All of which are the three of my most frequently used words to describe being pregnant and on the brink of becoming a mom. <br />
<br />
Um.. also, super excited to be back next week to show you all the bookcase we built! I'm working hard this week to get it painted! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter your email address:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-56873173930350205372015-02-22T14:06:00.001-08:002015-04-06T12:07:01.159-07:00Baby's First Planked WallA couple weekends ago, Michael and I tackled our first big task for completing the nursery.<br />
<br />
The plan was to plank the wall behind the crib. If you aren't familiar with what I mean by a "planked wall", <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=planked%20wall&term_meta%5B%5D=planked|typed&term_meta%5B%5D=wall|typed">click here</a>, or scroll on down and read more.<br />
<br />
We used a couple tutorials to help us figure out the process - you can find tons of them on pinterest. <a href="http://www.thehouseofsmiths.com/2012/11/diy-wood-planked-walls-tutorial.html">House of Smith</a> was the main resource we used. I would encourage you to read through her's and several others if you are going to tackle the process.<br />
<br />
We purchased 1/4 plywood from Lowe's for $14 per sheet. Apparently, some Lowe's stores will cut the sheets down for you at the store. Our Lowe's strictly enforces a rule that it will not cut anything smaller than 8 inches. We wanted our planks at 6 inches in width. So what's a tablesaw-less couple to do? We set up some sawhorses and used the guide on Michael's circular saw to make our cuts. It worked pretty well and honestly did not take that long. It's best if you have two people - one to do the cutting and one to hold onto the boards because as you cut further into the wood, the cut piece will start to vibrate, which makes getting a straight cut difficult. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qFDLCigo7MU/VN1Zflk2IbI/AAAAAAAA4BQ/iHDA04JpJ4o/s1600/IMG_2227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qFDLCigo7MU/VN1Zflk2IbI/AAAAAAAA4BQ/iHDA04JpJ4o/s1600/IMG_2227.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
After our boards were cut, I used the power sander and 150 grit paper to quickly sand down the rough surface. I also knocked off the freshly cut - and sharp - corners of the boards. <br />
This didn't take long either. I worked out in the garage sanding (wearing a mask, of course) as Michael prepped the room and made some initial measurements. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fC11nDFOXZw/VN1ZpBfTopI/AAAAAAAA4BY/n2hqmwgKzlM/s1600/IMG_2228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fC11nDFOXZw/VN1ZpBfTopI/AAAAAAAA4BY/n2hqmwgKzlM/s1600/IMG_2228.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Once our boards were ready, we started at the ceiling. Wow were our ceilings uneven. We had to do some major adjustments to our boards by trying to cut off pieces of wood in order to compensate for slopes in the ceiling. We got fairly close and then filled the remaining gaps with calk. <br />
Once we got past the ceiling -which took us probably a good hour- things moved pretty quickly.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vu9WzTshpRM/VN1Zp_cNIwI/AAAAAAAA4Bg/oMAciWzSw44/s1600/IMG_2229.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vu9WzTshpRM/VN1Zp_cNIwI/AAAAAAAA4Bg/oMAciWzSw44/s1600/IMG_2229.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
We used two nickles to space our boards. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jih9o4Zwa5k/VN1ZbxDOEZI/AAAAAAAA4BI/WqdtlK1DBA4/s1600/DSC_0943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jih9o4Zwa5k/VN1ZbxDOEZI/AAAAAAAA4BI/WqdtlK1DBA4/s1600/DSC_0943.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And Saint Steve lent us his pneumatic brad nailer which was awesome! <br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjsNHLX1THU/VN1ZXGvm7ZI/AAAAAAAA4BA/d19dYahp_pA/s1600/DSC_0944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjsNHLX1THU/VN1ZXGvm7ZI/AAAAAAAA4BA/d19dYahp_pA/s1600/DSC_0944.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a><br />
<br />
He also lent us his jigsaw, which helped when we had to cut our boards for the outlets and near the window trim. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfIggifDsAM/VN1ZRu1t7MI/AAAAAAAA4A4/lT0M-dR8ZJ8/s1600/DSC_0941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfIggifDsAM/VN1ZRu1t7MI/AAAAAAAA4A4/lT0M-dR8ZJ8/s1600/DSC_0941.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Once the whole wall was planked, I filled the holes with wood filler, sanded everything and swept it off.<br />
<br />
Then I primed it all. Two coats.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Dp1N6uDV_k/VOYIW10ostI/AAAAAAAA4W8/Db3cSeMQo1I/s1600/DSC_0968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Dp1N6uDV_k/VOYIW10ostI/AAAAAAAA4W8/Db3cSeMQo1I/s1600/DSC_0968.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm super psyched about how the horizontal lines of the planked walls contrast with the vertical lines of the crib. I love it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-htFLBKoEJOY/VOYIVtNn-wI/AAAAAAAA4W0/fHLl2e-WGGM/s1600/DSC_0970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-htFLBKoEJOY/VOYIVtNn-wI/AAAAAAAA4W0/fHLl2e-WGGM/s1600/DSC_0970.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
Although I love the white against wood, we do plan to paint the planks and the walls all the same color. But before I paint, I will give the planks a light sanding, just to keep the finish soft to the touch. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9pVVr0dRHek/VOYInLo1DQI/AAAAAAAA4XU/SPqqkOL404E/s1600/DSC_0980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9pVVr0dRHek/VOYInLo1DQI/AAAAAAAA4XU/SPqqkOL404E/s1600/DSC_0980.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
But before I can paint the room, we have another fairly large project lined up...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JA-q-5ZpOPM/VOYIgvtue9I/AAAAAAAA4XE/EMobZ90sDak/s1600/DSC_0974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JA-q-5ZpOPM/VOYIgvtue9I/AAAAAAAA4XE/EMobZ90sDak/s1600/DSC_0974.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
That corner by the door is wasted space in this little room. Our thought? Make it useful by building a book shelf. <i>Kids have lots of books, right?</i> It will also have extra deep shelves at the bottom for toy storage.<br />
<br />
After lots and LOTS of planning, we started working on it yesterday. It's probably our biggest solo project to date, so wish us luck!! We are optimistic that we will be able to finish building it next weekend.... but then again, this is our biggest solo project to date, so we'll see. :-)<br />
<br />
Linked to: <a href="http://www.coffeewithus3.com/pretty-pintastic-party-45/">Pretty Pintastic Party</a>, <a href="http://www.tableandhearth.com/2015/03/on-display-thursday-link-party-no-34.html/">On Display Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.petitemodernlife.com/2015/03/12/think-make-thursday-no-22/">Think&Make Thursday</a>, <a href="http://homeremediesrx.com/2015/03/talented-tuesday-link-party-21/">Talented Tuesday</a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.com/2015/04/april-15-before-and-after.html">Thrifty Decor Chic-Before & After Party</a> </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter your email address:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-90213799138280603662015-02-08T15:13:00.001-08:002015-02-08T15:16:10.834-08:00Simple and Sweet Valentine's TreatValentine's day is less than a week away.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, Michael and I decided this morning in the bathroom that we would be each other's Valentines :-)... phew! Glad we got that decision out of the way. ;-) And usually we spend it pretty low key with a homemade card. We may go out to eat or I may just make a dinner for us at home. We don't fuss too much over this holiday.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YbkxXJLvlEg/VNfLcgw8LhI/AAAAAAAA3_Q/OOQDaRdQego/s1600/DSC_0946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YbkxXJLvlEg/VNfLcgw8LhI/AAAAAAAA3_Q/OOQDaRdQego/s1600/DSC_0946.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
But this week I found this adorable woven heart at a consignment shop in town and couldn't resist the $2.50 price tag! I replaced the old ribbon it came with with some bakers twine that I had recently gotten on sale at Meijer. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VthRfv88WeE/VNff-rp8zMI/AAAAAAAA3_4/nMU3-6cItVQ/s1600/DSC_0948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VthRfv88WeE/VNff-rp8zMI/AAAAAAAA3_4/nMU3-6cItVQ/s1600/DSC_0948.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
So I just cut myself a length of string and hung it on the door that we use everyday.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k2nVY3-G6bI/VNfgHfWUnSI/AAAAAAAA4AA/cFCdgi3Hljg/s1600/DSC_0953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k2nVY3-G6bI/VNfgHfWUnSI/AAAAAAAA4AA/cFCdgi3Hljg/s1600/DSC_0953.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I placed some paper and a marker nearby and everyday this week whenever we leave, we have to write a little note to each other... with the Valentine spirit in mind.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-71mUTBO1Qxc/VNfhN-aMxEI/AAAAAAAA4AM/gx2obBEHmj4/s1600/DSC_0958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-71mUTBO1Qxc/VNfhN-aMxEI/AAAAAAAA4AM/gx2obBEHmj4/s1600/DSC_0958.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Then by the time Valentine's Day gets here we get to open and read lots of little notes from our Valentine! Simple and Sweet. That's my kind of Valentine's day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FsI3Mj55W6s/VNfp8su9MuI/AAAAAAAA4Ag/wygKidHOaK8/s1600/valentine%2Bdoor%2Bmessenger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valentine's Day Door Messenger" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FsI3Mj55W6s/VNfp8su9MuI/AAAAAAAA4Ag/wygKidHOaK8/s1600/valentine%2Bdoor%2Bmessenger.jpg" height="640" title="Valentine's Day Door Messenger" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i>What about you? Are you more of a big-extravagant-date-with-2-dozen-red-roses kind of Valentine? Or a sweet-card-and-simple-meal kind of person?</i><br />
<br />
Alsoooo...... I can't resist sharing, and if you follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/laurablough/">instagram</a> you already know...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtuhsxldkyY/VNfPB0qhfMI/AAAAAAAA3_o/xbjJi4XgtxQ/s1600/DSC_0941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtuhsxldkyY/VNfPB0qhfMI/AAAAAAAA3_o/xbjJi4XgtxQ/s1600/DSC_0941.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
we started on the nursery this weekend! The initial project?...planking the wall behind the crib! We actually finished it all on Saturday but I want to get it primed at least before I share it with you all. Just a little sneak peak for today! EEEK! So excited! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter your email address:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-6430377819461616552015-02-01T15:12:00.002-08:002015-02-01T15:15:23.342-08:00Laura Lately: January EditionHappy Super Bowl Sunday!! If you know me at all, you probably know I have very little interest in sports... but I do have an interest in getting together with friends, eating foods with far too much cream cheese to be good for you, and watching fun commercials. Although, this year, "friends" = Michael and if the baby counts, then him too. Because right now, it looks like this outside:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CL-JG-WmGTQ/VM6gJGSAvyI/AAAAAAAA3-o/-ISp7Q5NJvA/s1600/IMG_2222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CL-JG-WmGTQ/VM6gJGSAvyI/AAAAAAAA3-o/-ISp7Q5NJvA/s1600/IMG_2222.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<h4>
Lately I can't get enough of...</h4>
The view out our front window! It's beautiful outside and we are expected to get about 16+ inches of snow by tonight! Since I have no place to go, I get to curl up with a blanket, my computer and enjoy the falling snow. It's perfect packing snow too so I keep asking Michael if he wants to build a snowman (you know the tune). No snowman has been built thus far. I'll keep you posted. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Lately I've been watching...</h4>
I was all excited because I thought I read that Animal Planet would be live streaming the Puppy Bowl XI online today. No such luck. And with no cable in our home, I am forced to spend my day puppy-less. But I have been enjoying watching a lot of Friends on Netflix! <br />
<br />
<h4>
Lately I've been shopping for...</h4>
BabyB! You can check out my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/leladyb/baby-boy-blough/">pinterest board</a> for all the cute cute things I've been ogling. <br />
<br />
We have been continuing to watch Craigslist for good deals on a changing table/buffet as well as a glider/rocker. Nothing yet but I'm hopeful we can still score a deal in plenty of time for our little guy's arrival in May. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NBHHP54_TyI/VM6qWGwsB9I/AAAAAAAA3_A/rs3WyG3J2os/s1600/DSC_0934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NBHHP54_TyI/VM6qWGwsB9I/AAAAAAAA3_A/rs3WyG3J2os/s1600/DSC_0934.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
Oh and this happened! The crib is in the house ya'll! That's a pretty big deal!! <br />
<br />
<h4>
Lately I've been munching on...</h4>
Chicken, Steak, Eggs, Nuts. Lots and lots of protein.... for a healthy growing boy. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Lately I've been looking forward to...</h4>
My birthday!! I get to turn 27 at the end of this month! I always said I felt like, for me, 27 was the perfect age to become a mom! So I look forward to turning 27 and start this transition that will surely change my life, heart, mind, priorities, etc.. forever. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Lately I've been thinking about... </h4>
How sometimes its easier to be a care-giver than receiver. As a healthy 26 year old nurse, I am much more familiar with taking care of patients than being a patient. In fact, other than going for the routine check ups, I have never really been on the other side of the scrubs. But this last week changed that. Long story short, I couldn't be more thankful for skilled and caring doctors and nurses. I especially am <b><i>super</i></b> thankful for my own coworkers who took such good care of me when I was not feeling well. Don't worry, things are OK, just some fluky blood pressure and heart rate issues that seem to stay at bay most of the time.. and go away with rest... thankfully. I mainly just want to write this out of a grateful heart for my coworkers who sprang into action, making me feel well cared for and reassured. I couldn't ask for better people to care with and be cared for by. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter your email address:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1020597119645097401.post-25876880348208036732015-01-25T15:34:00.001-08:002015-04-06T12:05:30.529-07:00DIY Deadline: Custom Jewelry TraysThere's a deadline looming in our house. One that will change everything. <br />
<br />
I'm a girl who works best if I have a deadline. Now there are some out there that may label me a procrastinator.... but, I just choose to say I work well under pressure. So now that we are past the half way point in this pregnancy, it seems like we need to get down to business and get things done.<br />
<br />
There are tons of things I'd like to get done before the baby gets here: the nursery, painting our closet, some outdoor projects, deep cleaning, etc... but one thing I'd like to get done is to finish up some of these looming DIY projects that I have sitting around waiting to be tackled. So, from time to time, I will be bringing you a post called <i>DIY Deadline</i> where I show you one of these projects that has been sitting around waiting to be completed. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iBw1asKqOvY/VMLWQb-M-TI/AAAAAAAA39s/0u6LbSKEiHc/s1600/DSC_0988e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iBw1asKqOvY/VMLWQb-M-TI/AAAAAAAA39s/0u6LbSKEiHc/s1600/DSC_0988e.jpg" height="640" title="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
This time... It's all about these jewelry organizers I have been wanting to make.<br />
<br />
Last March, Michael and I were at the Habitat ReStore and I saw a huge stack of shallow drawers. As soon as I saw them, I knew instantly what I wanted to do with them. I knew we could make them into jewelry organizers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fvwIl3JqWLE/VLcSnVlIToI/AAAAAAAA330/HDjJf-7kvjY/s1600/IMG_0018_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fvwIl3JqWLE/VLcSnVlIToI/AAAAAAAA330/HDjJf-7kvjY/s1600/IMG_0018_2.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So we bought four of them, with the idea that they would fit seamlessly into our IKEA closet system that we had just purchased and assembled.<br />
<br />
And then they sat in our basement for 9 long months, waiting for us to get to them.<br />
<br />
One of the biggest issues was how we were going to transform them from empty drawers into organized jewelry trays. <br />
<br />
Then this Christmas we decided to invest in a beautiful and magical piece of equipment called a miter saw. Once this wonderful machine entered our home, the answer was clear. We'll cut some scrap wood and glue them down to create dividers.<br />
<br />
So working on this project became a nice excuse for Michael to play with his new toy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i4dSOvOFwV8/VLcSd9NNe0I/AAAAAAAA33M/M1BZQCo8dwQ/s1600/IMG_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i4dSOvOFwV8/VLcSd9NNe0I/AAAAAAAA33M/M1BZQCo8dwQ/s1600/IMG_0001.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here is the before...(The bottom one was an old bamboo kitchen drawer organizer that we used in our old apartment kitchen drawers, but no longer need in our new kitchen. The top were the shallow drawers that we got from the ReStore) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9aofPW4Or-I/VLcSg3cnsyI/AAAAAAAA33c/mTZBAdpq7q4/s1600/IMG_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9aofPW4Or-I/VLcSg3cnsyI/AAAAAAAA33c/mTZBAdpq7q4/s1600/IMG_0004.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
...and here are the new jewelry trays...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DLk2w-yCudk/VLcSkpojpdI/AAAAAAAA33s/lWCqpH16EAI/s1600/IMG_0015_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DLk2w-yCudk/VLcSkpojpdI/AAAAAAAA33s/lWCqpH16EAI/s1600/IMG_0015_2.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
To do this, Michael sanded and cut some wood trim that he found at the ReStore to make the dividers and then glued them down with liquid nails. Some of the gaps were a bit large so we just used some caulk to fill them in. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8g47pUkzVZ4/VLcSjXKl-II/AAAAAAAA33k/NoDOmIvYU0c/s1600/IMG_0014_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8g47pUkzVZ4/VLcSjXKl-II/AAAAAAAA33k/NoDOmIvYU0c/s1600/IMG_0014_2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Then I painted them. ....three times... that was fun. <br />
<br />
I mixed up some chalk paint using <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/44050902580323638/">this recipe</a>, that way I didn't have to sand or prime them. <br />
<br />
And here we are!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1TS80TLvtE/VMK87wJCXXI/AAAAAAAA34E/sDm1bNjLvDc/s1600/DSC_0988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1TS80TLvtE/VMK87wJCXXI/AAAAAAAA34E/sDm1bNjLvDc/s1600/DSC_0988.jpg" height="640" title="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GPtv9Pp-xvs/VMK9DnBPLFI/AAAAAAAA34M/FzhelAPdRQc/s1600/DSC_0989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GPtv9Pp-xvs/VMK9DnBPLFI/AAAAAAAA34M/FzhelAPdRQc/s1600/DSC_0989.JPG" height="640" title="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Each drawer cost us $2 since we bought them on a 50% off day. The tray separators were made from wood trim we also picked up at the ReStore for around $6 total. So for all 5 custom drawer jewelry trays, we spent $14! <br />
<br />
Looking online, you can spend anywhere between $10-25 a tray. So I'm thinking we saved about $40 some bucks by making them ourselves.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-90b_R3nXxoY/VMK9ljyEbxI/AAAAAAAA34U/GSlKp2ztczU/s1600/DSC_0993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray, IKEA PAX system" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-90b_R3nXxoY/VMK9ljyEbxI/AAAAAAAA34U/GSlKp2ztczU/s1600/DSC_0993.jpg" height="640" title="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray, IKEA PAX system" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And I love how they fit in my closet. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AcYnbXMIHt4/VMLYRHU3XEI/AAAAAAAA390/8v-7YPyp8hU/s1600/DSC_0992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray, IKEA PAX system" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AcYnbXMIHt4/VMLYRHU3XEI/AAAAAAAA390/8v-7YPyp8hU/s1600/DSC_0992.jpg" height="640" title="DIY Custom Jewelry Tray, IKEA PAX system" width="424" /></a></div>
I put felt pads on the bottom of them and just slide them out when I want a piece further back in the tray. I love them!<br />
<br />
One Project down.... lots more to go!<br />
<br />
linked to: <a href="http://www.tableandhearth.com/2015/01/display-thursday-link-party-no-28.html/?utm_source=Table+%26+Hearth+Newsletter&utm_campaign=d4aac1b992-Table_Hearth_Post_Emails1_20_2015&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_7c981d47af-d4aac1b992-2224029">On Display Thursday</a>, Week's End, <a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.com/2015/04/april-15-before-and-after.html">Thrifty Decor Chic -Before & After Party</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don't miss a beat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog on Bloglovin'}</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8102735/a-nurse-and-a-nerd" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJOQtdTLkM4/UsJ4tHWfz2I/AAAAAAAABHo/ufvvInLw_sc/s200/clementine_bloglovin.png" /></a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-or-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">{Follow this blog via Email}</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter your email address:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" /><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09732669883057284056noreply@blogger.com1