tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70368072151540086502024-03-18T15:57:43.124-04:00Where the Grass is Greener...All things shabby chic, French-inspired, family-inspired and artsy. A look at home decor, family life, craft and art projects, and ideas.Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.comBlogger490125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-66272443698681705872018-08-26T19:25:00.002-04:002018-08-29T15:10:05.809-04:00Nightstand transformationAs long as I've lived in this house -- 23 years -- I have used the nightstand that I had as a teen and an end table on either side of my bed in my master bedroom. It honestly didn't matter to me since not very many people see my upstairs. However, the end table never really worked as it only had one small drawer and so everything else spilled to the top of it and I often had no room for my necessities -- water bottle, sleep machine and book.<br />
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So, when two nightstands suddenly appeared for a price beyond belief at a recent house sale, I told my husband to grab them! They are a little larger than I wanted and the style wasn't exactly what I was looking for, but the price was right and I knew I could transform them. So, with the magic of Annie Sloan chalk paint, I transformed them into exactly what I wanted.<br />
Here's the before. (Excuse the blurred focus -- it was dark and I took it with an old iPhone).<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OecdFmyFjvs/WyAJ5BwxXkI/AAAAAAAAGEU/gNhhZCnnW6kxrYPW0_vVKSHiA60HzhvOQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_250c.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="308" data-original-width="370" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OecdFmyFjvs/WyAJ5BwxXkI/AAAAAAAAGEU/gNhhZCnnW6kxrYPW0_vVKSHiA60HzhvOQCLcBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_250c.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And, the after.<br />
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I decided to keep the wood top because I liked the look of the planked wood. I love using chalk paint because there is no need for any prep. I simply washed it inside and out with a mild soap and water, let it dry and then painted. I used Olde White. It's a color I've used on many pieces. Then I distressed it by sanding it in spots and added the Annie Sloan clear wax. Done!<br />
Sharing at <a href="https://betweennapsontheporch.net/" target="_blank">Between Naps on the Porch</a>.Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-56199607518918674692018-04-23T16:07:00.000-04:002018-04-23T16:07:32.039-04:00Spring in full bloom<br />
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After quite a lazy start, we finally have spring. And, I have a beautiful new wreath to celebrate it!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10wbMVwlnWg/Wt4UbCx-UCI/AAAAAAAAGCw/sgT_oHis-Mca4CtPrXHQGWCFApvRq0QTQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1081.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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10wbMVwlnWg/Wt4UbCx-UCI/AAAAAAAAGCw/sgT_oHis-Mca4CtPrXHQGWCFApvRq0QTQCEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_1081.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I received two incredible silk forsythia wreaths from a sister company of <a href="http://commercialpalmtrees.com/">commercialpalmtrees.com</a>, a website that sells artificial palm trees. If Commercial Palm Tree's product quality is anything like the quality of this wreath, I have to give them a thumbs up! This wreath is gorgeous.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4wabrlbwrLw/Wt4Xo7PZBaI/AAAAAAAAGDA/wFmHi_mjm-ISJlqm4zGd-kHmEBIiNyMIwCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_24c5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1389" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4wabrlbwrLw/Wt4Xo7PZBaI/AAAAAAAAGDA/wFmHi_mjm-ISJlqm4zGd-kHmEBIiNyMIwCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_24c5.jpeg" width="554" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-giDOA1W78Rw/Wttwkb0Kd1I/AAAAAAAAGB8/vAb95qPKasImPBYR9UGaNRfzS31wVjZMgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-giDOA1W78Rw/Wttwkb0Kd1I/AAAAAAAAGB8/vAb95qPKasImPBYR9UGaNRfzS31wVjZMgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1032.JPG" width="300" /></a>Forsythia has always been one of my favorite spring flowers. So, when we moved into our home more than 20 years ago, it was one of the first bushes I planted. Now, I can clip it for my tall vases around my house. I always thought of making a wreath from the fresh flowers, but I decided it would end up leaving a mess at my front door. <span style="text-align: start;">This wreath is the solution -- leaving no mess and just a reminder that spring is FINALLY here!</span></div>
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I hung the other wreath in my kitchen to add a touch of color (and spring) to the area. I am really loving it and may decide to keep it there yearround (except Christmas time).</div>
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If you wish to purchase products at<a href="http://commercialpalmtrees.com/" target="_blank"> Commercial Palm Trees</a> sister company, <a href="http://www.silkplantsdirect.com/" target="_blank">Silk Plants Direct</a>, you can use the code BLOGGER10 to receive a 10% off discount on all products except custom orders.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Disclosure: These wreaths were received as a sample in exchange for an honest, unbaised review. The opinions on this blog are 100% my own. No monetary compensation was received and I was not required to write a positive review.</span><br />
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<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-85478098996643461752018-04-10T11:27:00.001-04:002018-04-10T11:27:16.345-04:00Spring Hiking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp86-fwxGxc/WszWMSBI3HI/AAAAAAAAGA4/-Bzb0Rq3Csk4b7koK7u5t84Ezo4EY_NggCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_24af.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp86-fwxGxc/WszWMSBI3HI/AAAAAAAAGA4/-Bzb0Rq3Csk4b7koK7u5t84Ezo4EY_NggCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_24af.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Early spring is quickly becoming my favorite season especially to go hiking. Crisp, cool air without bugs; splashes of bright green among the brown and no crowds. Yesterday my son suggested we go for a hike, right in the middle of our work day (both my husband and I work out of the house). Since we rarely take the opportunity to get away during the day except to walk our dog, we took him up on his offer and we were happy that we did. We went to Bacon Ridge, a rather new trail near our town. It's a mountain bike path and a hiking trail so I imagine that during the weekends it might get a little crowded, but a Monday afternoon proved to be a blissful escape with a few bikers and hikers sprinkled here and there.</div>
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Enjoy spring!</div>
<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-1824213793139385092018-03-15T14:06:00.001-04:002018-03-15T14:06:26.819-04:00Adding a touch of spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I fell in love with this gorgeous Veranda Garden Wreath* from<a href="http://www.permaleaf.com/" target="_blank"> PermaLeaf<span style="background-color: #fefcfd; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;">®</span></a><span style="background-color: #fefcfd; color: #757575; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"> </span>and couldn't wait to hang it! With Valentine's Day behind us, I needed to add something add a touch of spring so why not start at the front door?<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ah-GPDitcXc/WqqwWMcgQbI/AAAAAAAAF_M/TZsBuhSUjBkQLG83uwMnHN4_Tn4WgRXugCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_2427.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ah-GPDitcXc/WqqwWMcgQbI/AAAAAAAAF_M/TZsBuhSUjBkQLG83uwMnHN4_Tn4WgRXugCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_2427.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I honestly didn't know what to expect when I selected the wreath online; it looked beautiful in the photo and when it arrived, I was pleasantly surprised at its quality and beauty. The colors are rich and the depth of textures really make this wreath stand out from others I've seen. I'm so happy with it!<br />
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I've been slowly adding other touches of spring (and Easter) around the home, here and there in the living room, kitchen and family room.<br />
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Living room mantle and piano top:<br />
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Family room mantel and antique dresser top:<br />
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And, one last look at this lovely wreath:<br />
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*I received the wreath at no charge, but all opinions are mine. My thanks to PermaLeaf<span style="background-color: #fefcfd; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;">® </span>for sending me this free wreath in exchange for an honest review. Visit <a href="http://www.permaleaf.com/">http://www.permaleaf.com/</a> to see more of their products. You can also visit them on social media at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PermaLeaf?ref=hl">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Permaleafplants">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://plus.google.com/b/105144904667941301754/105144904667941301754/posts" target="_blank">Google+ </a>and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/permaleaf" target="_blank">YouTube</a>.Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-63579631063935519152018-01-23T15:27:00.002-05:002018-01-23T15:27:22.452-05:00Is it too early for Valentine's Day?I think not. It's always been sad for me to take down and put away all of my Christmas decor. So, I can't wait until the next holiday (which happens to be Valentine's Day).<br />
So, just some simple decorations for the day we celebrate love...<br />
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A little ribbon heart I made a while back adorns the living room mantle. And below, a store-bought sign when you enter my house and a sweet vintage heart hangs on my lamp on the entryway table.</div>
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A friend of mine made me this little quilt and it adds just the right pop of color to my white and gray family room.</div>
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Finally, hugs and kisses on the mantle. Happy Valentine's Day (a little early)!</div>
Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-27262230184039938892017-12-11T08:19:00.001-05:002017-12-11T20:43:11.758-05:00It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!<br />
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We had our first snowfall here and it was just enough to make it seem like it really is the Christmas season. My home got a light dusting of Christmas, too. I didn't go overboard like I usually do, but here are my favorite areas: First, up: the living room:<br />
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Second: Little vignette in the hallway:<br />
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The Kitchen:<br />
I love this window sill, but since we've added the screened porch, the light doesn't come through as much and it's not as spectacular as it once was with the sun shining through the blue bottles. It still makes me smile while doing dishes, though. I love that I have everything in my yard to clip -- the holly and pine, that is. Flowers are from Trader Joes.<br />
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Family room: I haven't really moved beyond this point with my decorations. Slowly, but surely!<br />
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Notice the shiplap on the wall. P.S. It's not "real" shiplap. Post about that to come. Well, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all just in case I don't get back here before that!</div>
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Linking to Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday; click <a href="https://betweennapsontheporch.net/goodbye-shoulder-bumps-hangers-designed-for-holding-cardigan-sweaters/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BetweenNapsOnThePorch+%28BETWEEN+NAPS+ON+THE+PORCH%29">here</a></div>
Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-5680628689710163502017-11-22T18:46:00.000-05:002017-11-22T18:46:06.712-05:00Happy Thanksgiving ..Grateful for so much!So, my friend Cassie inspired me to share what I am grateful for. If you haven't read her blog, you must! It's one of my favorites. She is very talented: designing, painting and writing. I thought I had energy -- she blows me with her enthusiasm for life. Find her blog <a href="https://www.cassiebustamante.com/2017/11/grateful-for-so-much.html#comment-617670">here</a>.<br />
And, I am grateful for ...<br />
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1. My family. They are the best and I'm sad that my two oldest live far from me. Well, my middle son is only 3 hours away, but still.<br />
2. My beautiful and amazing new daughter-in-law. She is one special person and we are so happy to have her as part of our family.<br />
3. That I will become a grandma next year. Woo hoo!<br />
4. My new dog, Maisie. We adopted her from Turkey. and she is aMaising (get it?)<br />
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5. That we could hold a beautiful, meaningful and fun wedding in our back yard (you will see the results in future posts).<br />
6. I am just plain grateful. Happy Thanksgiving!!!Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-70384238776976927112017-11-20T12:28:00.000-05:002017-11-20T12:28:10.047-05:00Screened Porch Reveal...only about 7 months later<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love, love, love my screened in porch. If you live in a hot, humid area (during the summer and sometimes fall and spring) and mosquitoes are abundant, it's a must for enjoying the outdoors. I practically lived out there this summer (when I wasn't working). I told you about a wicker set I found at an online yard sale for $50 -- cushions and all! Well, I spent about $300 to get them recovered and I couldn't be happier. They are exactly what I wanted.<br />
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I took my time looking for a table for out there and ended up buying one at the Habitat for Humanity Re-store for $100 and get this -- it's from restoration hardware! It had a broken leg and my handy husband fixed it. I coated it with a matte polyurethane and we were good to go! Bought the four chairs at Bed, Bath and Beyond on sale and I am still on the hunt for two chairs at the end. I have patience and I know I will find them.<br />
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I found this nifty bottle cap opener and collector at Home Goods. I painted the blue stripes to coordinate with my cushions.</div>
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This "side table" is actually a hamper I found at a consignment shop for $20. I spray painted it black to match the wicker and found a glass round top at a local hotel consignment dealer for $5. This place has everything from mirrors to paintings to lamps and, of course, round glass tops!</div>
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I'm now in the process of putting everything away for the winter so I will probably show it off again this summer when all my hydrangeas are in bloom. In the meantime, I'm linking to Metomorphis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch. Click <a href="https://betweennapsontheporch.net/unique-gift-wrapping-idea-for-christmas-featuring-vintage-cars-bringing-home-the-christmas-tree/">here </a>to join the party!Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-76280425713143499792017-10-16T12:57:00.001-04:002017-10-16T12:57:18.796-04:00From Roadside to Back Porch: Old Hutch TransformationIt's been awhile. Between hosting a wedding in my backyard, touring colleges and trying to get my son ready for his junior year of high school, I've been busy. However, I wanted to show off a project I did before the wedding (don't worry...a post about the wedding -- maybe several posts) will be coming in the near future.<br />
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I walk/run every day, which allows me first dibs on roadside finds if I'm fast enough. I happened to be walking past a house when a guy was carrying out this old hutch to set it at the end of his driveway. I promptly told him to put it back and I would be back in 20 minutes to pick it up! I had a vision.<br />
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Ever since reading the wonderful blog, <a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.net/">Between Naps on the Porch</a>, I knew I wanted a hutch to hold all of my outside glassware (actually plasticware) and items for the grill. So, after coaxing my husband to help me load it into the truck, I went to work.<br />
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I sanded it and primed it and used exterior black paint to match my wicker -- exterior so it would stand up to the weather as it's not really meant to be outdoors. I figured even if it only lasts a few years, it was basically free!<br />
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Here it is before. I meant to snap a photo of it with the glass doors on it, but I forgot!<br />
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I told a scrap piece of bead board (from our porch ceiling) and attached it to the back. I wanted it to pop against the black and tie in the color from my cushions. This blue paint did the job!<br />
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And, here it is...tah dah!!<br />
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I'm linking this to Metamorphis Monday on the very blog I told you about...Between Naps on the Porch! Click <a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.net/door-deck-progress-and-a2-milk-finally-reaches-georgia/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BetweenNapsOnThePorch+%28BETWEEN+NAPS+ON+THE+PORCH%29">here </a>to join the party!Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-28088375037075669442017-03-15T14:02:00.001-04:002017-03-22T12:09:56.335-04:00Bridal Shower Tea PartyJust last weekend, I hosted a bridal shower tea party for my future daughter-in-law. It was so much fun to plan and even more fun having it!! I tried some new recipes and with the help of one of her lovely bridesmaids, we actually pulled it off. Here are the results (I bet you'll be hungry after reading this!).<br />
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Invites designed by my sister and me.<br />
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Everyone got to choose their own tea cup to keep! I've been collecting them for more than 30 years (time to purge!!)</div>
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Fun little game. Winner got to keep the pitcher and candy.</div>
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I designed these letters and created the tea caddy from an old toolbox.</div>
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I created the cake/cookie plates from candlesticks and dishes. Collected a bunch of vintage plates just for this shower. I love them!</div>
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Teabag shortbread cookies dipped in dark mint chocolate!</div>
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Apple and puff pastry roses...hard to make, but oh, aren't they pretty?!</div>
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Lemon curd blossoms. </div>
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Easy as pie!</div>
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Lots of goodies!</div>
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The bride-to-be and me (in our party hats!)</div>
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Linking to Make it Pretty Monday at the Dedicated House. Visit <a href="http://www.thededicatedhouse.com/2017/03/make-pretty-monday-week-210.html">here</a>.</div>
Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-85479764746181596922017-01-31T10:44:00.001-05:002017-01-31T10:44:17.638-05:00Coming along slowly, but surely ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our screened in porch is structurally finished. We just need to add the screen and the screen door and I'll be able to unload all of the wicker stacked up in my family room (not that a screen will protect it from the elements, but it will cause a lot of dust so the less the better.)</div>
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I'm super excited to get to work on a few projects for the porch. Namely, a hutch that I plan on transforming with paint and some beadboard.<br />
Speaking of projects, I'm starting to get ready for my future daughter-in-law's bridal shower, which myself and her maid of honor are hosting. We're having a tea party and I've been living on Pinterest -- so many ideas!! And those ideas give me my own ideas -- so much fun. The first project is to transform the old toolbox (right) into<br />
a tea caddy. Working on that today.<br />
Check back soon for a reveal !<br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-61062508183111632592017-01-18T19:18:00.000-05:002017-01-18T19:18:06.958-05:00Unbelieveable Yard Sale FindsI have had great luck this year with yard/estate sales. Bargains beyond belief!<br />
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First, an older lighthouse bed and breakfast in my neighborhood had an estate sale. I can't believe the buys that I got! These people just wanted everything gone so prices were $1-$5 on most items (most of the furniture was gone when I discovered the sale). Above, a whole truckload of goods. Old handmade toolboxes, an antique tractor wheel, a bench, heavy ceramic planters, tools...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We also bought this boat for $5; we are going to turn it into a drink station for the wedding (and maybe a planter after the wedding).<br />
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I have visions of making this wagon wheel into a table.<br />
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I also got these adorable (one solid brass) lanterns for $1 each...I have no clue what I will do with them -- they are none working, but maybe candle holders? Just decoration?<br />
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Finally, I got a whole wicker set at a different sale -- settee, coffee table, end table, rocker and chair -- for $50! And, it's beautiful wicker. Oh, and she threw in all of the cushions. It is stacked in my family room (the porch isn't finished yet). Since I spent so little, I elected to splurge and have them professional re-covered .... you will see them in an upcoming post.That's all for now!Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-31621102674358199502017-01-07T10:36:00.003-05:002017-01-07T10:36:35.420-05:00New Year, New News!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Is anyone still out there? Readers, I think I am back. I have so much to tell you and so many projects going on it's just crazy. Believe me, I have so much to post!!<br />
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So...what is going on? Well, my oldest is getting married this spring -- in my backyard! There will be fun posts <span style="text-align: center;">coming up. So, of course, in order to prepare for the festivities we are doing major renovations. A screened in porch, a patio, landscaping, painting! Nothing like having a wedding to get you moving! </span><span style="text-align: center;">We got the patio and porch floor poured and it's stamped concrete! Cool stuff -- looks like slate. Above, this is before they added the dark stain and coating. For some reason I didn't take final photos, but you'll be able to see it in update photos.</span><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UY2Y-6fiTJ0/WDDL5Hda3OI/AAAAAAAAFmc/TXgQDd9qKMsri3WNdu9lf0m4rRMqaJddwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UY2Y-6fiTJ0/WDDL5Hda3OI/AAAAAAAAFmc/TXgQDd9qKMsri3WNdu9lf0m4rRMqaJddwCLcB/s640/IMG_1039.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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So, here's how far we are with the porch...just the framing and trim so far (yes, I know winter is here, but contractors have failed to show up). So, looks like we'll be building over the winter.<br />
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Next blog...some amazing yard sale finds. Stay tuned!Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-20845550574960503102016-03-09T20:18:00.002-05:002016-03-09T20:18:55.682-05:00Finally, The Kitchen RevealWell, here it is. I am finally posting after 6 months...the kitchen was finished before that!! I'm just so busy with my job and life that I literally never have time to post anymore. Head back to this post to see <a href="http://wherethegrassisgreener-rz.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-befores.html">The Befores</a>.<br />
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Now for the afters:<br />
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I absolutely love my new kitchen. The white paint really brightens up things and contrasts well with the dark steel granite countertops - love these by the way!!!<br />
We changed out the knobs with antique bronze to given it some warmth. And, don't get me started about this backsplash...love it!!!<br />
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We ended up taking out the desk area and put in a coffee bar and more storage. This way, I don't have to run back and forth to the family room to grab my mixer, waffle maker, etc. Way more useful space now.<br />
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My favorite thing in the kitchen is my transformed island. I love the look of the dark gray with the quartzite countertop. I must say though that the island countertop is quite a pain because it etches -- if you leave anything acidic on it, there goes the shine. We even have it protected with a sealant. It doesn't stain, though (unless you were to leave something on it overnight), so we just have to be careful. Using it to prepare meals is tough, but using it for baking works just fine.<br />
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I'm still debating on the painting the back of the glass cabinets a warmer hue. I just don't like the coldness of the gray so I'm thinking of picking up the light rust from the backsplash. What do you think?<br />
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Is anyone still out there?<br />
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<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-13110188643722034852015-12-23T18:59:00.000-05:002015-12-23T18:59:16.593-05:00MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EMll5DPfvTk/Vns05KAFCvI/AAAAAAAAFVs/IAvcoGfaoGs/s1600/IMG_2420.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EMll5DPfvTk/Vns05KAFCvI/AAAAAAAAFVs/IAvcoGfaoGs/s640/IMG_2420.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Merry Christmas to everyone in blogland. So sorry I have not posted in a while. My new kitchen reveal in early 2016...I promise! In the meantime, have a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-84233048458273640792015-07-04T10:29:00.001-04:002015-07-04T10:29:13.487-04:00A Kitchen Island Renovation and Waiting ... Rather impatientlySo what is it about contractors? I am really trying to get this kitchen in place and done! I've made my backsplash selection, paint colors selections, have the countertops in place, but I can't even get people to call me back (with the exception of my cabinet painter - she's been there from the beginning). So, I have some snippets to show you, but that's it.<br />
In the meantime, my husband and I decided to remake our kitchen island. Here it is, plain as can be (without the top because I forgot to take a before photo).<br />
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First, he added panels of beadboard to give it a little more character and hide all of the cracks and dents of the old wood.<br />
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Then, I bought these legs online from <a href="https://www.adamswoodproducts.com/configure.asp?cat=25">Adams Wood Products</a>. They actually cut the corners out if you don't have the tools to do it yourself (we didn't). They fit perfectly. I wanted the island to look as if it was a separate piece of furniture. I will be painting it a different than the rest of the cabinets, too.<br />
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Stay tuned for the rest of the kitchen project (if I can get someone to call me back). I honestly don't want to hang the tile for the backsplash myself -- you'll see why when I reveal the cool tile I got!<br />
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Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-62794937358066405112015-05-29T19:00:00.001-04:002015-05-29T19:00:42.130-04:00The Befores<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4BcIrhcluGo/VWjqVTN1KhI/AAAAAAAAFOo/PgmGkDjbfHc/s1600/IMG_0091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4BcIrhcluGo/VWjqVTN1KhI/AAAAAAAAFOo/PgmGkDjbfHc/s640/IMG_0091.JPG" width="640" /></a>A while back I told you we were remodeling our kitchen (<a href="http://wherethegrassisgreener-rz.blogspot.com/2015/02/it-started-with-new-stove.html">It Started with a New Stove</a>). No new cabinets, but new countertops, a new island configuration and new dishwasher. We are having the cabinets painted.<br />
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We are going through the process now and it's strange, I've become emotionally attached to my countertops -- formica and all. And my dishwasher, a Maytag that hasn't had a problem in the 20 years I've owned it, I love it. (Am I sane?) Seriously, these things all gave me a good 20 years worth of service and I was not throwing them into a dumpster!<br />
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I tried to donate both to different charity organizations-- a place called Second Chance and Habitat for Humanity and no one would take these great countertops and my dishwasher (I guess I can't blame them about the dishwasher, but the countertops were in perfect shape). So, I went on Craigslist and listed them for free and guess what? I had many, many takers!<br />
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So, if they are all in such good shape, why update?<br />
First and foremost, we don't plan on staying here forever. Maybe we we will, but the plan is to relocate someday. So, we wanted to update because everyone knows that kitchens sell homes, and we want to enjoy our investment! So, when we got the stove and the rest snowballed. Here are my before photos.<br />
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My beloved dishwasher and countertops:<br />
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My sink that really bugged me -- impossible to keep clean and ugh, the scratches!<br />
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So, we got the new countertops, sink and dishwasher yesterday. Sneak peek...<br />
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Still have a lot to do do...stay tuned!</div>
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<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-40658505186767695192015-02-14T12:22:00.000-05:002015-02-14T12:22:01.555-05:00Happy Valentine's Day with a Little Parisian Romance <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's Valentine's Day! I decided to do a little crafting in honor of this day so I could post some things to my badly neglected<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/WheretheGrassisGreen"> Etsy</a> shop. These solid wood switch plates were purchased in at a flea market and I made them so pretty with just some chalk paint and ink!<div>
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Of course, Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world so why not add a touch of romance with stamps?</div>
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Hope your day is full of Paris romance and love!</div>
Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-967581416893043082015-02-08T10:13:00.000-05:002015-02-08T10:13:03.471-05:00It Started with a New Stove...Well, readers ...anyone still out there? I am back for a while, I hope. A lot has happened. A couple family things (I'll explain in another post) and the Christmas holiday and work and it's just been a whirlwind.<br />
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So, the stove. My 19-year old stove broke in July. I got a new one, which I'm not super happy with -- I mean how do you keep stainless steel and those black glass tops clean? That will be the death of me! Thanks goodness I decided to get a white refrigerator two years ago.<br />
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When we got the stove, we had to rip out part of our backsplash so that's when I decided that this 19-year old, formica counter topped, warped beadboard backsplashed kitchen needed to be updated.<br />
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Our plans:<br />
<b>Keep the cabinets </b>-- they are in great shape, but probably need to be stained or painted because they are pretty banged up. I think we will paint and I would save a bundle if I did it myself, but I honestly don't have the time.<br />
<b>Get glass for the cabinets</b> -- I never put the glass in 2 of the cabinets -- yep, dusty dishes.<br />
<b>Ditch the formica countertops</b> -- I've longed for marble or granite and I think it's time. But, I have to say, the formica still looks pretty good after all of these years.See the beautiful quartzite to the right? -- our new island top!<br />
<b>Find a compatible, more functional backsplash.</b> Beadboard looked great for about 6 years ... then it started warping behind the sink. It's been that way for a good 15 years.<br />
<b>Change up the island</b>. I want the island to be the centerpiece. We are going to do some fun, inexpensive (except for the countertop) things.<br />
<b>Add cabinets to where the desk is</b> -- We need storage for our waffle maker, mixer, etc. Right now they are stored in our family room. I honestly thought this would be inexpensive, but it is not. The problem -- the cabinet depth is not standard. It has to be under 21 inches. Looking at vanity size cabinets, but most have to be ordered. Kind of expensive -- way more than I thought. Heading to salvage yards this week.<br />
<b>Get a new dishwasher</b>. Ours is almost 20 years old. It does an okay job. I mean, sometimes we have to wash the dishes again, but it's still going. I don't want to let go, but my husband is making me.<br />
<b>Get a new sink</b> -- basic stainless steel. NEVER get a white enamel sink if you have 3 boys and/or well water. Just sayin'<br />
<b>Remove the railing</b> between the family room and kitchen to open up the room a bit.<br />
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So stay tuned readers. I will be posting some before and after shots over the next few weeks.<br />
<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-16997571542900500222014-06-21T08:37:00.001-04:002014-06-21T08:37:51.747-04:00Innovative Wedding Shower Gift Idea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My friend's daughter is getting married in September. She grew up in our neighborhood when it was a tight-knit community. A group of us decided that we would pitch in for a gift that would remind her of the great times spent growing up in Annapolis. We pitched in for a fire pit and a party tub, filled with fix in's for s'mores, beverages, and other outdoor items.<br />
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To present it in a pretty way, I decided to mimic the look of ice with bubble wrap -- the square bubble kind...I love the results! It looks just like ice in my opinion. We also decided to use tulle to give it a wedding look.<br />
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I found some other innovative shower gifts on Pinterest:<br />
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Source:<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=wedding%20shower%20gifts&rs=ac&len=20"> Pinterest</a>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-17068644538963665882014-05-18T17:39:00.000-04:002014-05-18T17:39:56.633-04:00Workin' ItVery busy, but I had a custom order that made me smile. I have little time to devote to my Etsy shop with my job, but really enjoyed making these baby blocks for a customer.<br />
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My son and I ran a race this weekend. It was a gorgeous morning for 5 miles (ugh), but we did it! I posted my second best time and he actually won in his age group. (He's lightning fast.) Other than that, we've just been plugging along with work, work, work, lacrosse, lacrosse, lacrosse and end-of-year school events.<br />
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Here's a glimpse of my dining room...300 grab bags, which I agreed to fill. (What was I thinking?)<br />
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<span id="goog_18521581"></span><span id="goog_18521582"></span><br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-12404281906901914552014-04-06T12:26:00.001-04:002014-04-06T12:26:56.104-04:00Sweet Spring...Barn Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Beautiful sunny weather greeted my friend and me when we visited the Barn Show this weekend. And, the trends I saw were bright and saturated color along with those pretty chalk paint colors that bedecked most the furniture. Since we had such a snowy cold winter, my eyes were naturally drawn to the bold and bright colors. Check these out:<br />
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Of course, there were not so bright findings, too. I'm always drawn to maps and printers blocks.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1rDRYsarNKc/U0F_vjaTqvI/AAAAAAAAEfQ/qJ6wl6l2e00/s1600/IMG_2174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1rDRYsarNKc/U0F_vjaTqvI/AAAAAAAAEfQ/qJ6wl6l2e00/s1600/IMG_2174.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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Here's to more sunny bright spring days!</div>
<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-25076659864435865782014-03-31T09:38:00.002-04:002014-03-31T09:38:42.728-04:0010 bags down, only 30 to go...WHAT?Well, I have 10 bags/boxes already packed up ready to go for my 40 bags in 40 days project. My house is neater and less cluttered already, but I still have way too much stuff. I started with my craft area...which was growing. Actually, I'm so busy, I paid my youngest to organize it...and organize, he did! I apologize for the poor quality of photos. I was using my phone camera.<br />
Here's the before:<br />
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Now the after:<br />
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I've been going through my office, too. Getting rid of things. Feels good. Hope I will be able to show you more as I clear things out. A new project, too!Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-27909870585601534132014-03-05T13:08:00.001-05:002014-03-05T13:08:25.078-05:00Another Try at 40 Bags in 40 Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My favorite blogger, Sarah at<a href="http://www.memoriesoncloverlane.com/"> Clover Lane</a>, just reminded me that it's time to do the annual 40 bags in 40 days challenge. Here's how it works: the challenge is to use the 40 days of Lent (starting today) as a way to simplify your life and give to others.<br />
"The gist of it, says Sarah, "during Lent, rid your house of 40 bags of stuff…things you don't love, don't use, junk, accumulated stuff, clutter, garbage."<br />
After you fill the bags, donate them, recycle them or toss them. I have done this for two years now and have managed to fill 24 and 26 bags, respectively. The bags can be filled with items or trash (mud room here I come!). I probably won't have that many this year because I gave away so much in previous years, but hey, I'll try.<br />
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You can visit <a href="http://www.memoriesoncloverlane.com/">Sarah's blog</a> as she goes into much more detail. Wish me luck!<br />
<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7036807215154008650.post-35562807915706157582014-02-26T11:35:00.001-05:002014-02-26T11:35:19.453-05:0050% off Everything in my Country Tag Sale Shop<br />
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I am so busy that I've decided to close one of my Etsy shops, Country Tag Sale. I will combine my shops into one at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/WheretheGrassisGreen">Where The Grass is Greener</a>.<br />
To take advantage of this sale, please visit<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Countrytagsale"> https://www.etsy.com/shop/Countrytagsale</a> and use the coupon code: CTS50 at checkout.<br />
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Enjoy shopping … items are going fast!<br />
<br />Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00291730936585284813noreply@blogger.com0