tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4454938415041047852024-03-14T04:37:20.194-04:00Tidy Brown Wren, bringing order to your nest Bringing order to your nest.Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.comBlogger681125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-77628032488233167622017-01-24T09:34:00.000-05:002017-01-24T09:34:08.316-05:00A simple fix for hanging towels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our home is a work in progress. Actually, my whole life is a work in progress! Ha!</div>
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Big projects in the house aren't in the works right now since work on the greenhouse is still continuing. Here it is in it's half painted stage. Yes, it really is green! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sCtnJcTuFdGDf7p-CyTDS7BGIz7OL2ymJ3ux2lr8HQnY9U6_HMOgHRVJNwWX4juO7IJIp0W1gcazFHKzCvQzvwsM_MlQq08hIwEyf2ah0csQh0gnB9kZ-AwlRBVQxJi9NLGYLWmc4xAP/s1600/DSC_0317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sCtnJcTuFdGDf7p-CyTDS7BGIz7OL2ymJ3ux2lr8HQnY9U6_HMOgHRVJNwWX4juO7IJIp0W1gcazFHKzCvQzvwsM_MlQq08hIwEyf2ah0csQh0gnB9kZ-AwlRBVQxJi9NLGYLWmc4xAP/s640/DSC_0317.JPG" title="recycled window greenhouse at tidybrownwren.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, as I was saying. . . </div>
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Small projects are all we can handle in the house right now. One of those projects was tackling the lack of towel bars in our main bathroom. We haven't done much in the bathroom except pull out the dropped ceiling and add a few lights. </div>
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For a temporary fix, I added a quilt rack to hold our towels.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXSgDuAUNGYaA42tDRa4xRzxFSqXUvU66uCD0yrEFg9tWX_rgAzLaVG3fYf5VP64qaJCy2r7UCSdz2ezzw6a9LFhjpp6m0EnfM0R42HuKUfAsqk1V_5arWDn6d5kdU9tlWXJ_k4lWuVY8d/s1600/DSC_0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXSgDuAUNGYaA42tDRa4xRzxFSqXUvU66uCD0yrEFg9tWX_rgAzLaVG3fYf5VP64qaJCy2r7UCSdz2ezzw6a9LFhjpp6m0EnfM0R42HuKUfAsqk1V_5arWDn6d5kdU9tlWXJ_k4lWuVY8d/s640/DSC_0026.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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I felt like it was always getting in the way and tended to be top heavy when holding wet towels.<br />
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I picked up some hooks from Hobby Lobby (when they were 50% off) and hubs attached them to some leftover 1 by 4s. Then the wood was attached to the wall studs for stability. The wood was already stained to protect it - but not the right shade. No worries, it will be fixed in the next year when we remodel the whole bathroom. In the meantime, it is very functional.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7RGZ2ppSMrZb-_1hY4Ua4GGaVD7dQETlJQKzanpxO0SMQJImNeKlvuHq3REO5Xrk_skf5ceT7UNAHO_HH83Mve7JYT_e07HCFoHIpdyPxVSx4l0ggEQZmZN8_uSh4pqE4Gl_wc5A-5zM/s1600/DSC_0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7RGZ2ppSMrZb-_1hY4Ua4GGaVD7dQETlJQKzanpxO0SMQJImNeKlvuHq3REO5Xrk_skf5ceT7UNAHO_HH83Mve7JYT_e07HCFoHIpdyPxVSx4l0ggEQZmZN8_uSh4pqE4Gl_wc5A-5zM/s640/DSC_0028.JPG" title="Towel bar solution at tidybrownwren.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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<br />Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-4411684745807627762015-11-06T09:11:00.000-05:002015-11-06T09:11:10.851-05:00The Last Harvest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivJPAWT6JLJhiGIdxhJMnFvyINdSNFOEOlN9j-3VppY5fatlgwMKlxTVMpkjTLNWUPUBSdBX7ByaRHIEaNEohxuJ4VO-bHCZeGp2g7tJ1XdwWl3JtsHv4rFFsWCKW-ET9ZiLY-8jJbIhZ/s1600/DSC_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivJPAWT6JLJhiGIdxhJMnFvyINdSNFOEOlN9j-3VppY5fatlgwMKlxTVMpkjTLNWUPUBSdBX7ByaRHIEaNEohxuJ4VO-bHCZeGp2g7tJ1XdwWl3JtsHv4rFFsWCKW-ET9ZiLY-8jJbIhZ/s640/DSC_0410.JPG" title="Sunflower love from tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Couldn't help but fall in love with this sunflower in my garden last month. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Wm6MewAZMKZSb1vCKHSU0wwlzKF9XLTgwWJIOnLgD5DHdfEn9il4RJO8HCafUtaYV9rvyTQm9UopxPaBxrbfZpagUJb3g89qW52FDknsMLEFxAYM33zID1Nl7gUDz8tvnQiNLesPDRpe/s1600/DSC_0422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Wm6MewAZMKZSb1vCKHSU0wwlzKF9XLTgwWJIOnLgD5DHdfEn9il4RJO8HCafUtaYV9rvyTQm9UopxPaBxrbfZpagUJb3g89qW52FDknsMLEFxAYM33zID1Nl7gUDz8tvnQiNLesPDRpe/s640/DSC_0422.JPG" title="Green tomatoes from tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The older grandfellas helped me harvest the last of the tomatoes and peppers before the first cold snap of autumn.</div>
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Goodbye summer, thank you for your warm, sunny days. </div>
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Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-74989479894968098142015-04-30T17:04:00.001-04:002015-04-30T17:04:56.878-04:00Spring Open House<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:roundrect id="_x0000_s1037"
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm getting ready for Tidy Brown Wren's Spring Open House.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And you're invited!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Saturday, May 9, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">9:00-4:00</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wren Acres in Chesapeake, Virginia</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you missed the Fall Open House, you'll want to make sure that you make it to this one. Most items are one-of-a-kind, so you'll want to arrive early to get your favorite piece. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Email me tidybrownwren@gmail.com for directions</span></div>
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<!--[endif]-->Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-90263063526135853062015-03-31T22:16:00.002-04:002021-02-17T17:40:53.846-05:00How to organize and clean your bedroom<br />
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Most of the time, when I'm called in to help stage or organize a home, I encounter an overstuffed master bedroom. What I mean by overstuffed is too much furniture, too many clothes, and too many items that don't belong in a bedroom.</div>
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A lot of people, including myself, tend to put stuff in the bedroom that doesn't belong because we don't know what else to do with it. It becomes a staging area for projects, laundry, exercise equipment, and "stuff".</div>
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So how do we get from ransacked to restful? I thought you'd never ask! Here are some questions to ask yourself:</div>
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1. What do I want this room to feel like? Restful retreat, romantic getaway, or an inspired haven?<br /><br />2. What pieces of furniture could be gotten rid of? Bookshelves, dressers, chairs, exercise equipment?<br /><br />3. What items end up in your bedroom that don't belong there? Toys, paperwork, laundry?</div>
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4. Are there any repairs that need to be made? Loose handles, broken curtain rods, stuck door?<br /><br />5. What activities will take place in the bedroom? Reading, bill paying, television watching.</div>
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After you have wrapped your brain around what you want your bedroom to be like, it's time to get to work. </div>
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I like to make the bed first. Somehow that one little job makes the room 25% better. </div>
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Then I usually follow this process:</div>
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1. Remove all furniture, exercise equipment etc. that does not belong in the room.</div>
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2. Collect all clothes that are laying around and put them into a large pile or clear garbage bag (Make it a clear one so you don't accidentally throw it away or donate it). You'll work on clothing later.</div>
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3. Clear off each dresser and bedside table (basically every horizontal surface). </div>
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Place everything you want to keep in the room on the bed. Everything else will </div>
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placed in a bag for donate, a bag for trash, or a box to be taken elsewhere in the house. Don't mess with the inside of the drawers yet - you'll do that later. </div>
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4. Clean and polish every surface. Pull out the furniture and vacuum the floors and clean the baseboards. Also, clean the backs of all of the furniture. Take down the drapes and clean or replace them. Wash the windows and window sills.</div>
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5. Place all of the stuff you collected from the horizontal surfaces (that you want to keep) and put it back onto the newly cleaned dressers, bedside tables, desk etc.</div>
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6. Now that your bed is clear, it's time to work on the clothing.</div>
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a. Pull out your pile or bag of clothing that you collected from around the room. b. Working with only one person's clothing at a time, sort the clothing into piles of types of clothing (pants, shirts, dresses, etc.).</div>
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c. Open your dresser (or whatever you keep your clothing in), pull out the clothing, and sort it as before. Continue this process with your closet if you have the room. If you have tons of clothing, just do your dresser first and then your closet. </div>
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d. Take one sorted pile at a time and go through it. Ask yourself "Do I love it". "Do I wear it"? "Does it make me feel good when I wear it?'' "Is it worth <span style="font-size: 19.3600006103516px; line-height: 27.1040000915527px;">the space it takes up in my bedroom?" "How many of these same items do I need?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 19.3600006103516px; line-height: 27.1040000915527px;"> e. Only allow clothing that you decide is a keeper to make it's way back into your dresser. Put all of the clothing back, keeping like items together. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 19.3600006103516px; line-height: 27.1040000915527px;"> f. Continue with all of the piles until all of your clothing is put away. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 19.3600006103516px; line-height: 27.1040000915527px;">7. Take your bed apart and put on fresh linens (or new ones you bought for your newly cleaned bedroom)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 19.3600006103516px; line-height: 27.1040000915527px;">8. Remove all trash and throw it away. Put all clothing donations in the car so you can drop it off tomorrow at the thrift store. </span></div>
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9. Light a candle in your room and relax. Your hard work has paid off!</div>
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Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-71418871489638213972015-02-12T22:27:00.000-05:002015-02-12T22:27:42.563-05:00How to clean and organize your bathroom and keep it that way.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, if you're following along with me in the process of organizing and cleaning your entire house this year, we'll be working on the bathroom in February together. Well, not really together. I mean you work on your bathroom and I'll work on mine.</div>
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I thought I would use some photos of bathrooms I've staged for my clients over the past year or two. </div>
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One of the things you will notice about all of these bathrooms is that I use all white linens and light colored accessories. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIC3vBTe3-i2ZI-EEAtBsRJYH70v6yU83mx8HwgHMWNxXHOhvarveQLPzxXn3GGEcRKW9iTPq4z_AQjbt9EHWPW1vCZqZEb8F8qMqTa2l5pD5y4Hb3w2ky5gO0oR_JA3zxtqT2CmsW5Xpe/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIC3vBTe3-i2ZI-EEAtBsRJYH70v6yU83mx8HwgHMWNxXHOhvarveQLPzxXn3GGEcRKW9iTPq4z_AQjbt9EHWPW1vCZqZEb8F8qMqTa2l5pD5y4Hb3w2ky5gO0oR_JA3zxtqT2CmsW5Xpe/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" height="640" title="Staged townhouse bathroom by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="418" /></a></div>
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You'll want to work on only one bathroom in your home at a time. </div>
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As usual, you'll want to check out each bathroom and do an assessment.</div>
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<a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2011/03/monday-motivation-organizing-bathroom.html"> Check out this post for the details.</a></div>
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<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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV7W7Ci2Yt3NpoDpoJ5EjQVqWvEKsg1XsDWu4WGBgOFSTBiL2vmD_wd_Rq_aX68L6loo5mXSYyN1tgSWn-TDtxd29EiByhBDjFBNDcymes1HgFpFRMKxR3few-T62CnjdCPzB1Hk9GJypM/s1600/DSC_0051-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="staged bathroom by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV7W7Ci2Yt3NpoDpoJ5EjQVqWvEKsg1XsDWu4WGBgOFSTBiL2vmD_wd_Rq_aX68L6loo5mXSYyN1tgSWn-TDtxd29EiByhBDjFBNDcymes1HgFpFRMKxR3few-T62CnjdCPzB1Hk9GJypM/s1600/DSC_0051-001.JPG" height="424" title="Staged bathroom by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staged bathroom in a home for sale.</td></tr>
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After you've done an assessment of the bathroom it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. </div>
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1. Remove everything from the cabinet or drawer. Wipe out the cabinet/drawer and
line with contact paper if desired.<br />
<br />2. Toss everything that is expired or
unusable.<br /><br />3. Sort items according
to type. Example: hair products, face products, first aid products.<br /><br />4. You may find that you have several
duplicates. A lot of people tend to not finish up products before they open a
new one. Consolidate the duplicates and promise yourself to finish up a product
before breaking out the new replacement.<br /><br />5. Now that you know what you have and will
use, put items into containers to keep them organized and easy to find. Shop
your house first to see if you have containers you're not using in other areas.
There's no need to spend money if you don't need to. Square and rectangle
containers are the best as they use space more efficiently. If you need storage
for small items, use a drawer unit to sit inside the cabinet.<br /><br />6. Store items you don't use often or only
seasonally in the back of the cabinet or in an out of the way closet. Keep your
most often used items near the front of the cabinet. Before storing paper
products under your sink, make sure you don't have any leaks. Paper plus water
equals mess!!<br /><br /><br />7. Hopefully, you'll have a trash bag full of trash and a bag of donations to remove from the bathroom. <br />
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<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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODEUoYtcF3AwFrhqpBNQRYTaoI5VMB6W5aktfJTY1TT7XtKEBN4nALDLskH5FlFwWzwOewWlLx1PujKAxPu4VA4FuCLzu6Xb3gKczYCJSQ3HtOBW_gll6HDLd1TRYWgAJDVRiAV6QduXV/s1600/DSC_0202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="staged bathroom by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODEUoYtcF3AwFrhqpBNQRYTaoI5VMB6W5aktfJTY1TT7XtKEBN4nALDLskH5FlFwWzwOewWlLx1PujKAxPu4VA4FuCLzu6Xb3gKczYCJSQ3HtOBW_gll6HDLd1TRYWgAJDVRiAV6QduXV/s1600/DSC_0202.JPG" height="424" title="Staged bathroom by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staged bathroom in a home for sale</td></tr>
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So how do I keep my bathrooms clean? </div>
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1. I make my own<a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2012/03/homemade-bathroom-cleaner.html"> bathroom cleaner</a> and spend 10 minutes every other day doing a quick wipe up of the sinks, counters, and toilet. If you have small children you might need to do it every day. If you're neater and cleaner than I am, you can get by with twice a week.</div>
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2. Once a week, I wash all of the towels (unless they need it sooner) and 2 or 3 times a year I wash the shower curtain and bath mats. I also vacuum and mop the floor when cleaning the rest of the house each week. </div>
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3. Now, I'm about to share one of my secret efficiency tips. Every 6-8 weeks I color my own hair. While the color is sitting on my hair (25-30 minutes), I tidy up the cabinets and drawers, getting rid of anything we don't need any more. No one wants to be near me with stinky stuff on my hair so I'm left to clean without any interruptions!</div>
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4. Once a year, I vacuum the exhaust vent.</div>
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So, now you have a plan to help you clean and organize your bathroom and keep it that way. Go forth and conquer!</div>
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<br />Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-55934315142738106512015-01-26T21:37:00.000-05:002015-01-26T21:37:38.993-05:00Organizing your home in 2015-Start at the front door.<div style="text-align: center;">
So. . . you've set a New Year's resolution to organize and deep clean your house this year. Sure, sure - you said that same thing last year, but this year you really mean it. But now it's almost the end of January and you don't know where to start. </div>
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Well, today's the day. </div>
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I'll be blogging each month about an area to work on . We'll take one area per month. Don't try to do more than that one area a month and overwhelm yourself because you'll want to quit. </div>
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And quitters never have clean homes!</div>
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Ready? Let's go!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpMp1m-5ykJFFPk13chZDt_uuZ85OF-ZEoj1kfwNoOhvn0XdK9ahv3mUaxKw5Zh_8gBkgkL9CKzs6_FooaeXVWKMFvwS7XtCVqI_Th1kk-Ism5B0uPYW1KDhNuf9n3xoE3ABODWJOxxsFf/s1600/DSC_0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpMp1m-5ykJFFPk13chZDt_uuZ85OF-ZEoj1kfwNoOhvn0XdK9ahv3mUaxKw5Zh_8gBkgkL9CKzs6_FooaeXVWKMFvwS7XtCVqI_Th1kk-Ism5B0uPYW1KDhNuf9n3xoE3ABODWJOxxsFf/s1600/DSC_0092.JPG" height="640" width="531" /></a></div>
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In January, you should work on the area where you enter your home. Front door? Back door? It doesn't matter. We'll just call it your home's entrance. </div>
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1. Evaluate what you need in the area. Think through your daily routine of entering and exiting. Think about what you need to help your family get what they need and keep it organized. Coat hooks? Shoe racks? Key storage? Think also about new paint, a bench, or a new rug. </div>
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If you don't have a coat closet to hold your things, you can use ready made coat racks and shoe cubbies. But here's the important thing - Don't buy anything yet!! Just think about what you might want to get or do.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHhZEVSO0Ir8qBbhTJG6CpkUM8af6NwW3KhNk9-Z_bVyM5TFUnHfqoK-n5l7OdP5LENRTGUjqYKrPs_FXbJVWnpruE2Kljt3goUue4qxx3YTtwf4AwO43a4HG6vGZGG1DfC7YCQ76cRSV/s1600/DSC_0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHhZEVSO0Ir8qBbhTJG6CpkUM8af6NwW3KhNk9-Z_bVyM5TFUnHfqoK-n5l7OdP5LENRTGUjqYKrPs_FXbJVWnpruE2Kljt3goUue4qxx3YTtwf4AwO43a4HG6vGZGG1DfC7YCQ76cRSV/s1600/DSC_0086.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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2. Step two is the most important step. Touch everything in that entrance area. Pick it up and make a decision about where it belongs. If it doesn't belong in the entrance area, set it aside. </div>
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If it's trash, put it in a black trash bag. If it needs to be donated, put it in a clear trash bag. If it belongs somewhere else in the house, put it in a large box or basket to empty out later. </div>
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After you have made a decision about everything, put the trash in the trashcan and the donation bag in your car so you can drop it off to a charity. Set the basket of items to be relocated outside of the room - don't put anything away yet. </div>
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Anything that stays in the entrance area should be kept together. Take another look at what you have decided to keep. Only keep what is useful and what you like. This is probably the hardest part for most of my clients (that's why they hire me!)</div>
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The more clutter you have, the harder it is to keep organized. Set all of these carefully chosen things aside. You'll put them away later. </div>
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3. Now for the elbow grease. Clean every surface. Start at the top, whether it's a closet or a wall. Wipe down walls, shelves, and cabinets. Finish with the floor. If you need to make repairs, paint, or replace light bulbs, do it now. </div>
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4. Ahh. . . now you have a clean and fresh area to furnish. Whether you have a closet, a hall, or a wall, decide what storage items will help you store what you need. If your family is still growing, you'll want to take that into account. Use what you already have or purchase new or thrifted items for storage.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXR1_echOvtsboe7T94qR6nT9yw15btHnnu1nrj8P6fGQsk9oIFiVbKt_LqUZ4FNzjQR58_rOVxGfWqOuiOEXBdyjOwxh2h0L3gkOGAEVHHN7u9xPz5TFskR0x9d9O7xusVX1XhjxHy5Q/s1600/DSC_0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXR1_echOvtsboe7T94qR6nT9yw15btHnnu1nrj8P6fGQsk9oIFiVbKt_LqUZ4FNzjQR58_rOVxGfWqOuiOEXBdyjOwxh2h0L3gkOGAEVHHN7u9xPz5TFskR0x9d9O7xusVX1XhjxHy5Q/s1600/DSC_0085.JPG" height="640" width="390" /></a></div>
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5. As you put your belongings away, keep like items together. Put all of the gloves and hats together, all of the shoes together, etc. Put items close to where you use them such as shoes close to the floor, kid's coats on a lower hook or bar to be easier to reach, etc. </div>
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6. Now you can step back and enjoy your hard work. Grab the box of items that belong somewhere else and put them away.</div>
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7. Now for the second most important important step - maintenance. Every week, tidy up the area by straightening everything and putting everything away. Every January, go through the area and decide what items are no longer needed. </div>
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Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-22510025954717015842014-11-29T21:49:00.000-05:002014-11-29T21:49:01.862-05:00How To Recover A Chair With A Shoestring <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I recovered a chair for my son's apartment a few months ago and I'm eager to show you the before and after photos. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zFjkYn3T6grcrSrJ4DC8T3L8CGOjim8DWwL7I1BsbMRHlpni67p0xq3RtUArvbJa4PuHqIWgJLtPEQJRQrAYkE8pXoh9DYspnBZicb53DGnfMmkilZ7cLGP6KUpc51_dJhBUy6ap_HCm/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zFjkYn3T6grcrSrJ4DC8T3L8CGOjim8DWwL7I1BsbMRHlpni67p0xq3RtUArvbJa4PuHqIWgJLtPEQJRQrAYkE8pXoh9DYspnBZicb53DGnfMmkilZ7cLGP6KUpc51_dJhBUy6ap_HCm/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" height="640" title="Recovered chair with pillow" width="424" /></a></div>
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This was the chair that we've had in our bedroom for at least 20 years. My father in law originally got it from one of his older neighbors. It was very sturdy, but very out dated and stained - and pink.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmqWQRd4Pgq1_mHNHP-Nb5fD5nT5px9dVYGpVvKvWpR1yhCdZ5S8HEXTQ2mxGKz-upw8qbaa6OVM6qymxTEAuQLAEJfmdBB0lVR3j-qSwDix6KNMd2lXWjn_BwjYV_NgMnLTQrPIAhbV9/s1600/DSC_0258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot,com" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmqWQRd4Pgq1_mHNHP-Nb5fD5nT5px9dVYGpVvKvWpR1yhCdZ5S8HEXTQ2mxGKz-upw8qbaa6OVM6qymxTEAuQLAEJfmdBB0lVR3j-qSwDix6KNMd2lXWjn_BwjYV_NgMnLTQrPIAhbV9/s1600/DSC_0258.JPG" height="640" title="Before picture of recovered chair" width="424" /></a></div>
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I took the cushions off of the chair and removed all of the old fabric. The cushions were still in good shape. Then I spray painted the frame with Oil Rubbed Bronze paint. After that, I stapled the new fabric (left over from a previous project) onto the cushion forms.<br />
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I needed to cover up some of the staples on the back of the chair but I didn't want to purchase anything. Thankfully, I always save extra strings, ribbons, and trim. Out of my basket of trim, came a wide brown shoe lace. Perfect!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVx1d5zak82fXOZhwCjOO3jh6pBZHmPuo61dBLgoFM4cQI_aO_7kZdEGO2D5YQ-J0IwFWYFp1MC5csoZrCt8T42Zjqa0XkrphXYS-3mxrMTomH7Gpx5NcwOQb8AWtiS1VbDadZhgioptbE/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot,.com" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVx1d5zak82fXOZhwCjOO3jh6pBZHmPuo61dBLgoFM4cQI_aO_7kZdEGO2D5YQ-J0IwFWYFp1MC5csoZrCt8T42Zjqa0XkrphXYS-3mxrMTomH7Gpx5NcwOQb8AWtiS1VbDadZhgioptbE/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" height="424" title="Brown shoe lace used as trim on a recovered cushion" width="640" /></a></div>
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Not bad for using supplies I already had on hand. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQqY-0ZJTeF9FlyxRFP7pSZnDXUHjUYx0ig_j5uLhVYhIDdalfUy9KayvSRUi7AzQpt3YBe1z2hhanHOjRFIyZ7hasYhl52JUTBnn5Zphjrlehe4w6M4VNRT0CMizHWMKiGZxmr1TMSo86/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQqY-0ZJTeF9FlyxRFP7pSZnDXUHjUYx0ig_j5uLhVYhIDdalfUy9KayvSRUi7AzQpt3YBe1z2hhanHOjRFIyZ7hasYhl52JUTBnn5Zphjrlehe4w6M4VNRT0CMizHWMKiGZxmr1TMSo86/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" height="640" title="Finished chair with dark trim and light fabric" width="424" /></a></div>
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I made a pillow to go with it - again, using extra fabric, trim, and pillow stuffing. The cross pieces are made from a khaki colored belt.</div>
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My son appreciates the extra seating in his living room and was happy that I didn't make the chair too "girly". <br />
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<br />Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-4111779179824332812014-11-20T20:59:00.001-05:002014-11-20T20:59:22.361-05:00Our Remodeled Utility Room Is Finally Done!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our utility room is finally finished and I couldn't be more pleased with how it turned out.</div>
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We hired a contractor to <a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-finished-kitchen-remodel.html">remodel our kitchen</a> last year but our budget just couldn't be stretched enough to work on the connecting utility room. </div>
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When asked what I wanted for Christmas last year, I asked if we could work on the utility room/pantry this year. Poor Hubs, I think he would have rather purchased a gift from the mall. Even with a very limited budget and schedule, we worked on it steadily all year and just finished last week. It took several months of planning to figure out the layout but my Hubs is a genius and is very good at space planning. He was so sweet to carefully consider all of my storage needs. He measured all of my containers to make sure everything would fit.<br />
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Some of the walls and all of the cabinets and the ceiling were torn out during our kitchen demo. We hobbled along with our little torn up utility room for almost a year. It was already an awkward, narrow space with two doors and a hot water heater. The lighting was poor, the walls were a mess, there was a lack of storage, and our electrical panel was smack dab in the middle of one of the usable walls. <br />
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We purchased a stacking washer/dryer set when we bought our kitchen appliances to take advantage of a great sale. Parts of our old set were literally held together with a paperclip and some duct tape. We also bought a larger deep freeze to replace our smaller one.</div>
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Hubs built a wall in sections to separate the long, skinny room into two spaces. The space with the hot water heater has become a closet that holds our vacuum cleaner, cleaning supplies, and the high chair we use for our grandchildren.</div>
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There was a lot of staring, discussing, and mumbling in that odd space. I think it taxed Hub's brain to the max. Plumbing and wiring is never fun.</div>
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Our ceiling was a drop ceiling with florescent lighting hanging within it. Broken, stained, and pathetic - it needed to go. </div>
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The old lighting was certainly not flattering. We had the electricians add an additional light switch to the room when they rewired our kitchen, but Hubs did the actual addition of the new lights.</div>
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Our new ceiling is made of bead board panels that can be removed, if needed, to get to the plumbing pipes. The lighting is just small recessed lights (4 in total). The hanging system hanging over the freezer is from Ikea. I wanted something to hide the large, black dryer outlet. <br />
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With the old cabinets removed, all of the many paint colors were exposed - I'm only responsible for 2 of the colors and yellow isn't one of them. The black rectangle is the electrical panel that I previously painted with chalkboard paint. </div>
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Our son was able to help with the heavy lifting. Hubs built each shelf unit separately and added them one at a time. </div>
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After everything was painted and a counter top was added, it was starting to look like what we had imagined it could be.</div>
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I used baskets that I already had to store paper products and extra food. The chicken picture was a painting my mother-in-law painted many years ago. She passed away and never finished it (notice there is only half a chicken?). I'm looking for a piece of chicken wire or basket to place under the chicken to finish it off. The picture is attached to a bead board panel that can removed to reveal the electrical panel. <br />
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The right side of the washer dryer is the spot for the deep freeze and lots of shelving. I wanted to have shallow shelving for my jars of baking supplies and dry goods. </div>
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I already had a lot of large jars, but I added a few more that I picked up at Walmart and World Market.</div>
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The two sets of shallow shelves took forever to paint but I love all of the storage.</div>
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I made chalkboard labels by cutting ovals out of chalkboard contact paper. I used a chalk/bistro marker to write the ingredients on each label. So far, they are holding up pretty well.<br />
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Now, I actually look forward to doing laundry! This is the best Christmas present ever!</div>
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Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-4353350830909983872014-11-13T09:33:00.000-05:002014-11-13T09:33:41.894-05:00My Tidy Brown Wren Shop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been busy preparing for a Tidy Brown Wren Open House this coming Saturday, November 15th. </div>
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After all, what's a mom to do when her last child moves out of the apartment over the garage? It's too great of a space to just leave empty. Want a sneak peak?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2OMOgJzxKRsiGAxhH_gmlSnFXHL4JjZJW3A56Mw-6E2amk7u60ld8wZP6bR2cdXGUFuwNB5OYFLhojjT5x6OtBsF2UDTpg0w8vYxtdfLULwXyFst03pJ7FVcpxlzbsvhBdAPBcl3DRRk/s1600/DSC_0202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2OMOgJzxKRsiGAxhH_gmlSnFXHL4JjZJW3A56Mw-6E2amk7u60ld8wZP6bR2cdXGUFuwNB5OYFLhojjT5x6OtBsF2UDTpg0w8vYxtdfLULwXyFst03pJ7FVcpxlzbsvhBdAPBcl3DRRk/s640/DSC_0202.JPG" title="fabric pumpkins" width="412" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2juZlPdhpCw6Nw45pNrOKecGiS83_f0PSXLURQJIXYh1L6wr0DUvWYvyjsoAVBsh_dJ0r9Xzmww73SKQuWie4oRzsE2BHeU_yMSHCCZQm3COBO6_GVYstPzphfVLZ8hU-gn-13aLSFa3/s1600/DSC_0206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2juZlPdhpCw6Nw45pNrOKecGiS83_f0PSXLURQJIXYh1L6wr0DUvWYvyjsoAVBsh_dJ0r9Xzmww73SKQuWie4oRzsE2BHeU_yMSHCCZQm3COBO6_GVYstPzphfVLZ8hU-gn-13aLSFa3/s640/DSC_0206.JPG" title="upcycled aprons" width="411" /></a></div>
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Lots of treasures that are upcycled, recycled, vintage, or just plain cool. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXnyb5y0jD9uOd5jyyAC_VeaOBqjYKSoDPMeKIWFTotzXRUW9as3QBtLryklmAohKcTT9HYpTaIu6edjLc5niQhNYmuOsbWe13hxVK5d_gwDLVOpHTx80zCULLNoyoUFk1Qimn7j7-SPI/s1600/DSC_0233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXnyb5y0jD9uOd5jyyAC_VeaOBqjYKSoDPMeKIWFTotzXRUW9as3QBtLryklmAohKcTT9HYpTaIu6edjLc5niQhNYmuOsbWe13hxVK5d_gwDLVOpHTx80zCULLNoyoUFk1Qimn7j7-SPI/s640/DSC_0233.JPG" title="upcycled Christmas stocking" width="424" /></a></div>
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The shop will be open from 9:00 until 5:00. Stop by and enjoy some delicious goodies and do some Christmas shopping. Email me at tidybrownwren@gmail.com for directions. Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-39664533707756492962014-06-11T15:52:00.000-04:002014-06-11T16:19:05.794-04:00Keeping It All Together During A Hectic Season In Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I almost forgot how to blog. It's true - it's been so long since I wrote a blog post that I had to putter around to find my way again. </div>
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In reality, I've been blogging in my head. I really have. I've been talking to you and showing you things around The Wren. Projects we've worked on. . . food I've cooked. . . crafts I've made. . . and of course, the grandchildren that won't stop growing. But of course, if I don't put my fingers to the keyboard and download some photos, then you have no idea what's going on. </div>
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During the past year, my jobs have taken up a lot of my time and attention. Most of my attention, actually. The problem? I had too many jobs. I was teaching preschool, running the preschool ministry at our church, staging homes for Realtors, and helping clients with organizing their homes. </div>
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Something had to give. I felt the Lord was telling me it was time to give up teaching. I argued with him for awhile. I knew I needed to obey, but I didn't want to. My penchant for uber multitasking was causing me to disobey my Lord. I offered to give up every other job. I offered to cut back my hours. That wasn't his plan. </div>
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"Yes, Lord", I finally said. "Not my will, but yours". </div>
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It really was freeing. I can't explain it except that when you know you're obeying God, nothing else seems to be a big deal. I didn't even cry on the last day of school. And let me tell you, I've ugly cried last-day-of-school tears every year for many years. This year - nothing. </div>
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As I looked back on the past year, I was wondering how I made it though the hectic-ness of it all. How did my house not fall apart? How did we manage to keep our bodies healthy? How did we work on anything or help anybody during this crunch time?</div>
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So here are some of my personal tips for handling a hectic season (God ordained or self imposed).</div>
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1. It pays to have an organized home. Sure I am a professional organizer, but I'm not a perfect housekeeper. One thing going for us is that everything in our home has a place where it lives. If it doesn't have a place, then it can't stay. I have a covered basket in my foyer where I put items that need to be donated. When it's full, I take the items to the thrift store.</div>
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2. Make sure your priorities are in the right order. If my time with God and reading his word is compromised, I have to give up something. Without my quiet time, I've learned that I'm a train wreck waiting to happen. Time with my Hubs comes next, followed by kids, grandlittles, friends, jobs and home maintenance. Everything else is extra and has to wait it's turn. </div>
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3. It's important to take care of your nest. Hubs has a spreadsheet to help stay on track with the home chores. He doesn't have to remember to change the air filters, check the tire pressure and fluid levels in the cars, or replace the smoke alarm batteries - the list tells him to do it. I keep a weekly list of the basics - dust, vacuum, wash, iron, etc. The only extra thing I do is clean out one drawer or cabinet each week. Because everything is pretty organized, it takes me less than 5 minutes to do it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Tj732RS8BzKsmmBg_Z9ecBEYvRBKM3xaCvO0C0FShrB23ignqv0_D8ftfpclI0F7QOOuUBo6JOfQKTHD9uSvRwz8wnTyYX9SB8uNoXoTYqSWxY3Q7kj8DzH0c5BSuvJpfeex6CrO0eG_/s1600/DSC_0592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Tj732RS8BzKsmmBg_Z9ecBEYvRBKM3xaCvO0C0FShrB23ignqv0_D8ftfpclI0F7QOOuUBo6JOfQKTHD9uSvRwz8wnTyYX9SB8uNoXoTYqSWxY3Q7kj8DzH0c5BSuvJpfeex6CrO0eG_/s1600/DSC_0592.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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4. Don't forget about your people. We have regular family dinner nights when all of our grown children and our grandlittles come for dinner. It's a set date on the calendar. I knew that if we didn't have a regular date, then we'd never find the time. Have a few minutes with your spouse after work each day. Just a little bit of time to reconnect and share your day will help to set the tone for the rest of the evening even if you have to go to a meeting or an event after dinner. I also try to have time with friends whenever I can. It ends up being mostly quarterly, but it's better than never. Facebook and texting also help. Just letting others know that you care about them goes a long way. </div>
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5. Don't believe the "Go big or go home" mentality. Little things do mean a lot. Even if you can't clean your whole house at one time, clean some of it. Even if you can't sit down to a home-cooked dinner, sit down and eat (anywhere) together. Even if you can't exercise for a half hour - walk and stretch every chance you get. </div>
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6. A little planning goes a long way. I try to plan my meals out for a few weeks at a time. I don't plan what we will exactly have for each night, but I plan to have the ingredients in my pantry/fridge/freezer for 14 meals so I am prepared to cook. I do try to plan out tomorrow's dinner, today. That way, if I have to thaw or soak anything, I'll have it ready. I also cook double batches of many meals and we eat them for lunches or other dinners. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CaNxT93xqhoqJWO4Yi2hVOZsU5kj2WXcyKOUTBydBF_HraBkPIQ7OaBRDKKN1xtJNIFuov5P7ulo5pyV_dSGfyFhMGWmuH6tMl3Jes4MKZ8xgp7O5wEHJgzfE5a-bfWVKbKgeow5i7vP/s1600/DSC_0185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CaNxT93xqhoqJWO4Yi2hVOZsU5kj2WXcyKOUTBydBF_HraBkPIQ7OaBRDKKN1xtJNIFuov5P7ulo5pyV_dSGfyFhMGWmuH6tMl3Jes4MKZ8xgp7O5wEHJgzfE5a-bfWVKbKgeow5i7vP/s1600/DSC_0185.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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7. Evaluate what you call fun. We all need a time to rest and rejuvenate, but sometimes we do something just because it's a habit or because we feel obligated. During this hectic time, I've had to say no to to home-sales parties that my friends are having. I've had to say no to movies (Hubs and I decided it wasn't quality time with each other). I've said no to women's retreats and extra Bible studies - all very good things, but not the best thing for my life during this season. </div>
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8. Say yes to new improvements and goals. I made a big change in my life this past year in regards to my health. I decided to cut Gluten out of my diet. Sure, it took a lot of effort initially, but my improved health and mental clarity made up for it. Also, Hubs and I still continued to make improvements to our home - just at a much, much, slower pace. We've stuck to our goals and dreams, but taken the step #5 approach. We have taken small steps toward bigger goals. As we're able, we will take more and more steps until the projects are done. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk04bE1dgNOfofNhY_-zMuIv8gc5ayEaPuI04FXBJrwRPd9_Sne58y6ugWLTRE9eaW53euact5iXJtKYtuE9oURXzVMq4yVU5e_2VbW4HNj1m9S9FnRTAwYyRrhpjyV-1c1Z5f3FLU1WWZ/s1600/DSC_0362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk04bE1dgNOfofNhY_-zMuIv8gc5ayEaPuI04FXBJrwRPd9_Sne58y6ugWLTRE9eaW53euact5iXJtKYtuE9oURXzVMq4yVU5e_2VbW4HNj1m9S9FnRTAwYyRrhpjyV-1c1Z5f3FLU1WWZ/s1600/DSC_0362.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laying out the windows we will use for our new greenhouse. We've been planning it for years!</td></tr>
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So there you have my take on how to survive through a hectic season in your life. What are your tips? What helps you get through the tough times? </div>
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Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-47298920148244985192013-12-26T22:11:00.000-05:002013-12-26T23:20:23.290-05:00Christmas Decor at Brown Wren Acres - 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm so glad that red is my favorite color - and that shades of green can be found all around my house. Why? Because for the first few weeks of December, that was all that decorated my house. Touches of red and green with one half-lit Christmas tree standing halfway between the family room and the dining room. </div>
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It's been such a crazy busy summer, fall, and now winter that I barely had time to clean my house let alone decorate for Christmas. And decorating for Christmas is something I love to do. I managed to find about 20 minutes a day for a whole week and finally got some decorations set out around the house. </div>
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Like I said before, the red and green colors I already had in our home really came in handy - all I had to do was add to it. </div>
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Ready for a tour before I have to take everything down this weekend?</div>
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Here is the front porch. My son found the old firetruck and refurbished it. It is perfect to hold some greenery and a package. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJH2K8wFoc62_AZ_S2ibzaDaD15eEQz8FF73TDCd6oqZ7J_xDZamWOCmVoVQfBQRw9mXPdX_fEKBUDm8r3hw768synoRiaLAmlAkYjhVWOKu9zX5jVBSKuUmJiaLtvu62RlpvdiHXfpUr/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJH2K8wFoc62_AZ_S2ibzaDaD15eEQz8FF73TDCd6oqZ7J_xDZamWOCmVoVQfBQRw9mXPdX_fEKBUDm8r3hw768synoRiaLAmlAkYjhVWOKu9zX5jVBSKuUmJiaLtvu62RlpvdiHXfpUr/s640/DSC_0059.JPG" title="front porch at Christmas by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The foyer china hutch is the perfect place to hold my collection of snow globes. You can see a glimpse of the card holder in the hallway.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SwP7VZYc_bUgTgtFiYhHUA19WgpyH7l2yNgs82IO5P-N0zJRzZvj2NbdFK_ySlD0nsEygw3OKoMZILTerVEoCZimR3__t5kKoClDZLSZFBs1NAJQcAkrBe3atOlTj7e3aB6a0C0JG2jD/s1600/DSC_0063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SwP7VZYc_bUgTgtFiYhHUA19WgpyH7l2yNgs82IO5P-N0zJRzZvj2NbdFK_ySlD0nsEygw3OKoMZILTerVEoCZimR3__t5kKoClDZLSZFBs1NAJQcAkrBe3atOlTj7e3aB6a0C0JG2jD/s640/DSC_0063.JPG" title="foyer at Christmas by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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An antique mirror helps to reflect light in the dark hallway.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitolgJsaTkCY2hJZIur_77U3c03KGlJ2RMuI_S6WDy9IPQxjwXp1nX7yNFwOUi_xUvJRoQ0ml4Weeq8PQtzK7QmCRLpZ5EuW5dVj2ooN9be-n4uYYZGpFxnmclH3NJY6uwYFIju-q4FbcB/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitolgJsaTkCY2hJZIur_77U3c03KGlJ2RMuI_S6WDy9IPQxjwXp1nX7yNFwOUi_xUvJRoQ0ml4Weeq8PQtzK7QmCRLpZ5EuW5dVj2ooN9be-n4uYYZGpFxnmclH3NJY6uwYFIju-q4FbcB/s640/DSC_0053.JPG" title="Christmas decor by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="394" /></a></div>
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The card holder is really fun. The wire spirals don't hold the cards very well, so I use miniature clothespins to secure the cards to the wire.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocbDiGAvaV0lXHwcKDuJg9gli2YSfeqaejGeVio_OyGDniLZ8bGqnb6IiFGFYXl50Ee7EYrBNYAtNsV3tIIU8pU37k7i81jIEZPuo0B7OkHlGNp8NiDOYp8U33a3xvl-T0K4TnrLSR8E1/s1600/DSC_0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocbDiGAvaV0lXHwcKDuJg9gli2YSfeqaejGeVio_OyGDniLZ8bGqnb6IiFGFYXl50Ee7EYrBNYAtNsV3tIIU8pU37k7i81jIEZPuo0B7OkHlGNp8NiDOYp8U33a3xvl-T0K4TnrLSR8E1/s640/DSC_0050.JPG" title="Christmas card holder by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="436" /></a></div>
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I always hang our stockings on the railing because we use our fireplace a lot and it's too much of a pain to have to remove the stockings every time we light a fire. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnC5bW7ZPD6gyVyMLp7HBaLqHDNouJWDq7faq76fnx5RvMtu_9lxBHdKvBJR6FvuNXJT6S91sCpNhdjU6lK2c639LiClZC-BDiGIt5pd-Jvsr_ecwl_GKxnyw9-SWAcH0AHf-jxaI34tjC/s1600/DSC_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnC5bW7ZPD6gyVyMLp7HBaLqHDNouJWDq7faq76fnx5RvMtu_9lxBHdKvBJR6FvuNXJT6S91sCpNhdjU6lK2c639LiClZC-BDiGIt5pd-Jvsr_ecwl_GKxnyw9-SWAcH0AHf-jxaI34tjC/s640/DSC_0046.JPG" title="Stockings hung on the stairs by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="344" /></a></div>
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A just added a little touch of sparkle with glittered starfish ornaments in the powder room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdDDko4fXN8y6kWfeOpcnYkAwU3j9AhtcVkFhzg8LxIQvWhKQSZDT1e_U01k0OoAPt7OdsUtwQd6rqwcuJl0ASISZZEXZy7ld9Z-cwhpG6c7W4U69DZVRZuovErmBZZJ1I4lZVvDMJtQHc/s1600/DSC_0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdDDko4fXN8y6kWfeOpcnYkAwU3j9AhtcVkFhzg8LxIQvWhKQSZDT1e_U01k0OoAPt7OdsUtwQd6rqwcuJl0ASISZZEXZy7ld9Z-cwhpG6c7W4U69DZVRZuovErmBZZJ1I4lZVvDMJtQHc/s640/DSC_0066.JPG" title="glitter Christmas starfish by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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Our fireplace is difficult to decorate because the mantle is really high and the ceiling is low. I just used some garland and metal stars. I added some battery operated lights that I got at Costco but they don't work very well - bummer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwc4Oj1E6R_bIse5DmtY2FTgI7E8sZULumxIMGNSRknxHDR24st_TcrCFiS0iRI-Ip6RQOkPSNTdT6eGkiq8kRXhIWszldCzaM-Rh60Edo05SNmZMKFxKzsC5Jiw1FGUKCXKvPrd9DflqT/s1600/DSC_0103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwc4Oj1E6R_bIse5DmtY2FTgI7E8sZULumxIMGNSRknxHDR24st_TcrCFiS0iRI-Ip6RQOkPSNTdT6eGkiq8kRXhIWszldCzaM-Rh60Edo05SNmZMKFxKzsC5Jiw1FGUKCXKvPrd9DflqT/s640/DSC_0103.JPG" title="fireplace at Christmas by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had to doctor up our "pre-lit" tree since half of it decided to give up the ghost. I love the size and texture of this tree, so I guess I'm stuck with putting lights on it like we used to. It's not that big of a tree, so I don't think it will be too much of a problem. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpbxRITpHq1l9eBlOq_0ivwyJ7GYc7XXPpWqahVO2cKmyiVXkc_8Ug4q80GvtQO_Pt6MeLPB5J5S68YaXB7NjhnpoRucj1RmO5SFe40nuDJj0GHV8moViuN38YZ2MiP1CUwJY4-V6nx4_/s1600/DSC_0117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpbxRITpHq1l9eBlOq_0ivwyJ7GYc7XXPpWqahVO2cKmyiVXkc_8Ug4q80GvtQO_Pt6MeLPB5J5S68YaXB7NjhnpoRucj1RmO5SFe40nuDJj0GHV8moViuN38YZ2MiP1CUwJY4-V6nx4_/s640/DSC_0117.JPG" title="Christmas at Brown Wren Acres by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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I use each of my children's baby shoes as ornaments on the tree. I wrote their names and birthdates on the sole of the shoes. Sweet memories!</div>
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I love the shelves that Hubs made for me last Christmas from old barn wood. I also set out our grandchildren's nativity set on a tray on the coffee table. Sometimes there are also green army men, matchbox cars, or a pink binky nestled in with Baby Jesus.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptpENbTIR4ca8Z4Fz0dxoYEN_wh2sdGDjSXy1zt9XcF4-aZSecpoHritp3mKAmzKp9a0C4FEXbuU3sEaEhgXuyWm1AfVWzFpoYSEnf6ef1LcIYBTBqaDz9AXxhd-hyP80U2ISblc0_V6w/s1600/DSC_0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptpENbTIR4ca8Z4Fz0dxoYEN_wh2sdGDjSXy1zt9XcF4-aZSecpoHritp3mKAmzKp9a0C4FEXbuU3sEaEhgXuyWm1AfVWzFpoYSEnf6ef1LcIYBTBqaDz9AXxhd-hyP80U2ISblc0_V6w/s640/DSC_0073.JPG" title="decorating for Christmas" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some simple greenery picks and berry picks soften the rustic shelves and I wrote "Joy to the World" on my grandpa's old slate from grade school. </div>
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Hubs found this old vintage tractor in a barn at an estate sale. I found a small tree at Michael's to stand next to it. Hubs is slightly obsessed with Farmall tractors right now and so this is a nod to his interest in them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1SKZVH4LbAy_7Z4S9O2UkbR8tTYbrYdTGoEdYrVDMP-YMJKeGT8-TxIvmkxI3gmwpOtmaHycOn3Pm_nH2_y2liTE1qZ3S2ZpMxHAWEgIU5Ub1vabgEseeKfwRdtZynv2vHvHrG06fvIiT/s1600/DSC_0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1SKZVH4LbAy_7Z4S9O2UkbR8tTYbrYdTGoEdYrVDMP-YMJKeGT8-TxIvmkxI3gmwpOtmaHycOn3Pm_nH2_y2liTE1qZ3S2ZpMxHAWEgIU5Ub1vabgEseeKfwRdtZynv2vHvHrG06fvIiT/s640/DSC_0079.JPG" title="vintage toy tractor as Christmas decor by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The dining room table is our only table to eat at, so the decor must be easy to remove. A few lanterns and a small bird keep it interesting.</div>
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I added an old metal truck and some bottle brush trees (from our train set) to a small greenhouse and then sprinkled Epsom salt in for snow. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZ_sYLqgLR7NeGzJiqQHdF8touE41NVmp4q1Del-FwZuukcJiHl_l3AfxmJEXANH1z6G6LJXS3Rar5lpuJ7XGb6JqNUBnCJC9mhsh2DuoaQ6Gab1XGGYVRIMu3rUs9s1uilMXosrIKlro/s1600/DSC_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZ_sYLqgLR7NeGzJiqQHdF8touE41NVmp4q1Del-FwZuukcJiHl_l3AfxmJEXANH1z6G6LJXS3Rar5lpuJ7XGb6JqNUBnCJC9mhsh2DuoaQ6Gab1XGGYVRIMu3rUs9s1uilMXosrIKlro/s640/DSC_0095.JPG" title="miniature Christmas scene by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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A little snowy scene. This might be all of the snow we see this winter!</div>
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I had a fun time decorating my new kitchen (just finished this past May). I mainly added some wreaths to the window, my Coca-Cola crate, and a Christmas plate. The green stool and red dish cloths were already in the kitchen. </div>
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A small pitcher and plate with pine cones was added to the glass cabinet . </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkAkk-_6l0iWm9r13_uVh5y-lXyuchdcwl_26fg1x6ypjWRJUdMToPvTNRdtfAeCFbNrXG0XD6PUeuYav1fu3iTaTwUXfVezYQmUoTJKjcsi95TJa5rsG1h2a3JOZxIU5s57XJQl8rBjw3/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkAkk-_6l0iWm9r13_uVh5y-lXyuchdcwl_26fg1x6ypjWRJUdMToPvTNRdtfAeCFbNrXG0XD6PUeuYav1fu3iTaTwUXfVezYQmUoTJKjcsi95TJa5rsG1h2a3JOZxIU5s57XJQl8rBjw3/s640/DSC_0126.JPG" title="Christmas kitchen by tidybrownwren.blogpspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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A star bowl holds candy and Hub's Nana's corn pudding mold holds mixed nuts with a nutcracker.</div>
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I guess you could say that I have a collection of angels since I have 3 now. Two came from students and the one with a gardening shovel came from my dear mother-in-law.<br />
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My kidney donor surprised me with a "sisters" figurine this year. We call each other "kidney sisters" because a part of her is now a part of me and we are also sisters in Christ. I am so, so blessed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxuzVsTlSaE98Idu4uoKYXqUErhLmGAa4YM0rpwozyBxgrk2huwSCqqLOh4eh36mbE0-L73ZheHc4EIC_rdcTbEMX8Vgz5airJZWZfg6zs-zEkNQ0OdZgglXdcUfUHNRTxqiep6WgQ1drp/s1600/DSC_0127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxuzVsTlSaE98Idu4uoKYXqUErhLmGAa4YM0rpwozyBxgrk2huwSCqqLOh4eh36mbE0-L73ZheHc4EIC_rdcTbEMX8Vgz5airJZWZfg6zs-zEkNQ0OdZgglXdcUfUHNRTxqiep6WgQ1drp/s640/DSC_0127.JPG" title="sisters by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="426" /></a></div>
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I put this little vignette in the kitchen window every Christmas. Hubs gave me the wheelbarrow ornament and I made the greenhouse out of another ornament, a milk glass urn, and a glass coaster. I made the nest in the ornament from twine and buttons.</div>
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When the sun starts to go down, and the chickens are heading into the hen house, there's nothing like coming back into the house with all of the lights are on and enjoying the warmth of home and family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLraVRfEjtO4gfOjoYH5GQDUJ4BZ3zr2mMUvCMan3H9GBhUaaQP57t5fh20_YGA_qGX56Sq20A3XFTgp-n3MG_2SB9oBo6cqpGEHMbZFPMFamfWPIOPp0UoL9621znIq9dgmkECiqT8tp/s1600/DSC_0114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLraVRfEjtO4gfOjoYH5GQDUJ4BZ3zr2mMUvCMan3H9GBhUaaQP57t5fh20_YGA_qGX56Sq20A3XFTgp-n3MG_2SB9oBo6cqpGEHMbZFPMFamfWPIOPp0UoL9621znIq9dgmkECiqT8tp/s640/DSC_0114.JPG" title="Christmas at dusk by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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May you and your family have a blessed Christmas and a happy and healthy 2014.</div>
Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-84601751400956808192013-11-13T11:24:00.000-05:002013-11-13T11:24:14.348-05:00Tidy Brown Wren Updates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good heavens, I haven't blogged in months! But that doesn't mean I haven't been working on projects and blogging about them in my head! </div>
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This is going to be a major blog brain dump post - everything you didn't want to know about our family life and activities at Brown Wren Acres.</div>
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Let's see. . . </div>
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August:</div>
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It was Charlotte's first birthday and I made her a Charlotte doll with hazel/brown eyes and pig tails just like the real Charlotte.</div>
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Pure sweetness, I tell ya.</div>
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Our veggie garden was pretty good this year. I planted 4 different kinds of tomatoes (40 plants in all) and they all did very well. Also planted were cucumbers, 3 kinds of peppers, 2 kinds of green beans, cantaloupe, and squash. I grew everything from seed too! </div>
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I can't forget about the herbs that rounded out the menu. Basil, parsley, mint, tarragon, thyme, rosemary, oregano, lemon balm, pineapple sage, and sage. </div>
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I was able to can tomatoes, tomato sauce, green tomato relish, pickles, and salsa. </div>
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I also invested in a pressure cooker so I can process cans of chicken stock, beef stock, and soups. </div>
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In Grandlittle news there was chicken wrangling, </div>
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Chicken chasing. . . </div>
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Trips to the aquarium. . . </div>
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and muddy visits to the park!</div>
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(Between our house and the park, a sudden rainstorm left several inches of rainwater awaiting our arrival. Instead of going home, we just stayed and played.)</div>
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September. . . </div>
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We got to cheer at football games. . . </div>
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Enjoy some beautiful, cooler mornings at The Wren. . . </div>
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and pick a ton of green beans. . . </div>
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And in October. . . </div>
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we (I mean Hubs and Son) worked on fixing up Cubbie (the tractor). . . </div>
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snuggling with books. . . </div>
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and taking a road trip (rode bikes on part of the Virginia Creeper Trail despite the government shutdown canceling our reservations to camp). . . </div>
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Yes, there was also organizing jobs and staging jobs and teaching preschool and serving at church. There was sewing and cleaning and organizing. There was making meals for needy families. I'm so thankful to have a full and active life <a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2011/04/tidy-brown-wren-is-back-and-shes-bionic.html">(thanks, Cathy</a>). </div>
Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-53740974571410475922013-08-17T14:08:00.001-04:002013-09-03T13:39:04.327-04:00Newest Member of our Homestead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hubs and I have been talking a lot about a cute little red head that we saw on the side of the road. Cute as a button, I tell ya. We couldn't stop talking about her. We pondered whether we should bring her home and make her part of our family. <br />
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We finally made the decision to adopt her. It wasn't really in the budget, but we knew we had to move quickly. I mean, how many times does something this adorable become available? And, she came with a mower attachment too. <br />
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We love everything about her - even her rust and dirt. If the battery doesn't decide to start her up, we just pull out the hand crank and give it a go! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7B8A0GmZ6dNSQvTfRF59Vpwjta6C3VWYQGAJmxIO4QsOeZ4pAh9WskSR9pYXgwLJNycoHBK53fsK7wJli9mcoWl78jleDWyBcdPF_RPTK4sopcydxDJ7PqxlB5Jdxac-BnyE3LWTuqK6V/s1600/DSC_0164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7B8A0GmZ6dNSQvTfRF59Vpwjta6C3VWYQGAJmxIO4QsOeZ4pAh9WskSR9pYXgwLJNycoHBK53fsK7wJli9mcoWl78jleDWyBcdPF_RPTK4sopcydxDJ7PqxlB5Jdxac-BnyE3LWTuqK6V/s640/DSC_0164.JPG" title="little red tractor by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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She got even dirtier driving her back to her new home - the barn.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPvk-e_ySqoSwmd53DRvt7g2Y2raITqHv7TzwcxoDPUrl0bmRUWw0lFqPsUk8xbfEBCU11SXWp_Zuw5aEChSvszgZoxk954fxaqSx11B7l0uK9hjYU-fnOoA2InoQ8l0c0YLJtaOVnizf/s1600/DSC_0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPvk-e_ySqoSwmd53DRvt7g2Y2raITqHv7TzwcxoDPUrl0bmRUWw0lFqPsUk8xbfEBCU11SXWp_Zuw5aEChSvszgZoxk954fxaqSx11B7l0uK9hjYU-fnOoA2InoQ8l0c0YLJtaOVnizf/s640/DSC_0166.JPG" title="tractor tires by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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We haven't decided what to name her yet. We'll let her make friends with the extra wood and hay we have stored in the barn. She's going to need some work and probably a visit from the tractor doctor. After all, she's almost 60 years old!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTqMpZQUwva3jSf0LkjYImTy4k2eamSoWIQ4Vm7AB5uK8uJRe-V-QB5UI9rezLR1E_TuNO4Ad6TEZYB7i-a7gous4JH9KOPi_DbB3tEQHVzxQtmwGYZJSTG_CrKx0KEzwKvqVxxveU41s/s1600/DSC_0173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTqMpZQUwva3jSf0LkjYImTy4k2eamSoWIQ4Vm7AB5uK8uJRe-V-QB5UI9rezLR1E_TuNO4Ad6TEZYB7i-a7gous4JH9KOPi_DbB3tEQHVzxQtmwGYZJSTG_CrKx0KEzwKvqVxxveU41s/s640/DSC_0173.JPG" title="little red tractor by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nothing says homestead living like a little red tractor!</div>
Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-91623444954113478872013-07-10T22:06:00.000-04:002013-07-10T22:06:10.449-04:00The Playhouse Is Ready For Visitors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our little playhouse is finally finished. </div>
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It's been a real labor of love and a challenge to keep the budget low and use what we already had on hand.</div>
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Click on <a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2013/06/a-playhouse-story.html">A Playhouse Story</a> if you want to read about our little house. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWKK60im5w9tiDSW1hTjrVq5Pt6fXtunvk6atDZMqlom_7YXa_48ZJuAetDCslrNuBuNnDqWT8MN9knNv1ES0rBVr9zl83K0kkruz38zDjDrvlvdakoHCq45fBpj7hPL-1R9_fj7gSydf/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWKK60im5w9tiDSW1hTjrVq5Pt6fXtunvk6atDZMqlom_7YXa_48ZJuAetDCslrNuBuNnDqWT8MN9knNv1ES0rBVr9zl83K0kkruz38zDjDrvlvdakoHCq45fBpj7hPL-1R9_fj7gSydf/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" title="playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was how it started out (minus all of the junk we hauled out of it).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmgM_xfKXxOJGzhiUo6wCctAkVTQY2_IvOmkmKsurIiZDWfQNlkVQEMCuGyVqBpkAKwRb9fhs_Ud6f1RznXo26L0eOzoCN6MLaKCxoFYfhHbf_SBd5EtCCgGXqX3j4pBcp6bKiB7nT-WA/s1600/DSC_0386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmgM_xfKXxOJGzhiUo6wCctAkVTQY2_IvOmkmKsurIiZDWfQNlkVQEMCuGyVqBpkAKwRb9fhs_Ud6f1RznXo26L0eOzoCN6MLaKCxoFYfhHbf_SBd5EtCCgGXqX3j4pBcp6bKiB7nT-WA/s640/DSC_0386.JPG" title="playhouse before remodel by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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And now I'm proud to show off our little playhouse all gussied up and ready for some visitors. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5EY0CyDCpx0-NtBlINeSH5m7sire1fbIS6vysGhnwLdMCKJPJdN42Be77iizrj4OJjTp6-1ACSSickHRptqLgvOnAUc1wCmZfN_Gr8yJtCPf7xnms3s3fbQ9G8G5HRZn3DrZTp3dLLEAj/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5EY0CyDCpx0-NtBlINeSH5m7sire1fbIS6vysGhnwLdMCKJPJdN42Be77iizrj4OJjTp6-1ACSSickHRptqLgvOnAUc1wCmZfN_Gr8yJtCPf7xnms3s3fbQ9G8G5HRZn3DrZTp3dLLEAj/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" title="finished playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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After all of the demo and painting, we only had a few more projects to finish up. One of the projects was adding a new (old) window to brighten the interior a bit more. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyr6O_Zb6MCs7cpwlRxK6gaAKF6mqZyYDVGe6vm6QKPnHdp4Xj3o0LekVqxILULnI-4tLNk21B2Tx2ExIXmnkB2pvDFu74UPMExku39puSG07_xeDxK1UDFIx4m95TwHliqgweruSAg7up/s1600/DSC_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyr6O_Zb6MCs7cpwlRxK6gaAKF6mqZyYDVGe6vm6QKPnHdp4Xj3o0LekVqxILULnI-4tLNk21B2Tx2ExIXmnkB2pvDFu74UPMExku39puSG07_xeDxK1UDFIx4m95TwHliqgweruSAg7up/s640/DSC_0095.JPG" title="upcycled windows in a playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="488" /></a></div>
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Then the fabulous duo known as Son & Hubs put in a remnant of carpet that our oldest daughter was getting rid of. She donated it to the cause.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAiEIQlKWwKDR3t8HATFp8NKfKvtarl9osC5UB51KWcbP6UPcIO6vsdnV43TiFw_4AXb7azitx5TkGiqYtLBVk_qqKUyIltzknnktAWSbIRART5Mm77ebLY1F9R3Vdw_4ZJ1RoNp8tXuMo/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAiEIQlKWwKDR3t8HATFp8NKfKvtarl9osC5UB51KWcbP6UPcIO6vsdnV43TiFw_4AXb7azitx5TkGiqYtLBVk_qqKUyIltzknnktAWSbIRART5Mm77ebLY1F9R3Vdw_4ZJ1RoNp8tXuMo/s640/DSC_0100.JPG" title="putting carpet in the playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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A coat of paint on the outside made the two non-matching windows look like they were meant to be together. By the way, all of the old windows we use in our projects have either been found on the curb or were donated by friends who like to watch us upcycle things - thanks Chris and Sheri!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTDN4TkA2Aa0BV3haSk6eIwFG4CBXtvfA5oQrgvldIIPTOEInjgDHaRnyz9Sc5qci2e7AzZvnqCk9o1WbO3fVlE3nR1l6pUsg-fgq0gmdjeZasdwgv3MqYdvwcZXNwubpUMekYgOGfiXEr/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTDN4TkA2Aa0BV3haSk6eIwFG4CBXtvfA5oQrgvldIIPTOEInjgDHaRnyz9Sc5qci2e7AzZvnqCk9o1WbO3fVlE3nR1l6pUsg-fgq0gmdjeZasdwgv3MqYdvwcZXNwubpUMekYgOGfiXEr/s640/DSC_0016.JPG" title="paint improves upcycled windows by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Flooring and 2x4s left over from our <a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-finished-kitchen-remodel.html">kitchen remodel</a> were used to make storage shelves in one corner. Notice the little chair on the top shelf? It belonged to Hubs when he was a little boy. We'll pull it down to use when we need it. </div>
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The bins hold Duplos/Legos, a wooden train track and trains, and a ton of matchbox cars. A bag with the car track sits on top of the bins.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcMM6cR01qr5txLL_t94sXgMroN5dyvdmYa0fqUPuATH0cMkHXl8N_rgXq9r-ayF2v6YQIVwIwTT8KZFjK8tTGXuPkLfPK4wKzJXFrVFJhp2MFguhq50pWeXMiTAdPC53tKa2-hHGxWHOY/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcMM6cR01qr5txLL_t94sXgMroN5dyvdmYa0fqUPuATH0cMkHXl8N_rgXq9r-ayF2v6YQIVwIwTT8KZFjK8tTGXuPkLfPK4wKzJXFrVFJhp2MFguhq50pWeXMiTAdPC53tKa2-hHGxWHOY/s640/DSC_0004.JPG" title="storage shelves in playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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My favorite part of the whole playhouse is the little kitchen spot. I had a great time putting it together. I bought the wooden kitchen 29 years ago in a thrift store. It was a big splurge then - $10.00 was a big chunk of my budget but my baby girl needed a kitchen set.</div>
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Hubs nailed some 2x4 pieces between the studs and I added some leftover trim and wood wedges for supports, and cup hooks for hanging things.</div>
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The sink part of the kitchen was missing so I bought a small stainless bowl at the thrift store and Son cut some scrap plywood for the bowl to sit in. I painted the wood with leftover paint.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUg5BpzLofIc4kPmPD5FT-fUA95GvQ3QF190_XJDgALMRas30wugKrtBwFge0J05ETbqumgmCJV_oMX-7uN0g0naaqi5viUbDKbts4v-KKlzhy7rzGyGzcI69sVYCtYW2PI8ES-8EVGpEl/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUg5BpzLofIc4kPmPD5FT-fUA95GvQ3QF190_XJDgALMRas30wugKrtBwFge0J05ETbqumgmCJV_oMX-7uN0g0naaqi5viUbDKbts4v-KKlzhy7rzGyGzcI69sVYCtYW2PI8ES-8EVGpEl/s640/DSC_0008.JPG" title="playhouse kitchen by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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Because the playhouse has no electricity, I added a wind-up emergency lantern. The kids can wind up the lantern with the crank and get 15 minutes of light from it. It's all plastic and not too heavy. I hung it from a leftover plant hanger. I hung a curtain (an old place mat) with Velcro across the bottom shelf. A piece of alphabet art from my staging stash completes the look.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHxOLcFFx4iBx-UlkqQt4dpFB2UK5y357NuHOOm_LWMLXSm44AtmwQt9kwTfViLAAOtzTrgFzvKJ49b8KLteupfPoAbfKs7XULwUg2UEWcPmnYs32lyxv4hVYmLytAqWm3Ef0v3lqdoKh/s1600/DSC_0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHxOLcFFx4iBx-UlkqQt4dpFB2UK5y357NuHOOm_LWMLXSm44AtmwQt9kwTfViLAAOtzTrgFzvKJ49b8KLteupfPoAbfKs7XULwUg2UEWcPmnYs32lyxv4hVYmLytAqWm3Ef0v3lqdoKh/s640/DSC_0015.JPG" title="built in storage in playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="404" /></a></div>
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The finishing touch was the kitchen table and chairs. I bought the table and two ice cream parlor chairs at a thrift store 25 years ago for $3.00 and that set has seen many tea parties. The vintage folding chairs were purchased at a thrift store last summer. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwG3dj_eBZPLCqeXoszwBwDLH_Rmcnj93cxM3Vrx2b4FOnSB50bOoHsoVff_qHY5wwd_LWnijEmV-uJj7v5oJPDVQHR1wBfprfmS45tXHZxNDs6v6j2k8gWUHk-tlvJEsZAiYhdlzuHJrv/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwG3dj_eBZPLCqeXoszwBwDLH_Rmcnj93cxM3Vrx2b4FOnSB50bOoHsoVff_qHY5wwd_LWnijEmV-uJj7v5oJPDVQHR1wBfprfmS45tXHZxNDs6v6j2k8gWUHk-tlvJEsZAiYhdlzuHJrv/s640/DSC_0007.JPG" title="child's table before painting by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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After a few coats of spray paint (called Fern) the table and chairs look great. The ice cream parlor chairs are still being worked on (they had to be reupholstered). I'll set them around the table and keep the folded chairs to the side until needed. The matching place mat from the curtain works as a table runner. I added a coat of poly to the top of the table to make it more durable just in case play dough or crayons make an appearance. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_akXrpFuoP87YhNFRHdV2eY0NWQX4guZFs2s68YQtVo90YU2gauOWPZMvJPIlNPXXQ9-sau-upPdzfDqfEU1rJox0e3OuZHa-UVA2JysY8bRUQu-grVbKxpexJJKobAvo5fBsXl7WxC3j/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_akXrpFuoP87YhNFRHdV2eY0NWQX4guZFs2s68YQtVo90YU2gauOWPZMvJPIlNPXXQ9-sau-upPdzfDqfEU1rJox0e3OuZHa-UVA2JysY8bRUQu-grVbKxpexJJKobAvo5fBsXl7WxC3j/s640/DSC_0013.JPG" title="refinished child's table set by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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I look forward to hearing lots of giggles and conversations while children play here. I might just put in a reading chair and make myself at home! One of the best things about this makeover was that it cost us around $7.00 to do it. All we bought was 2 cans of spray paint and a stainless bowl. Everything else was upcycled, recycled, or reused. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjjKHV-_AR0y5fKqKdKnBjFR7fhB5hd8OuiTkhJHi9UEbyqbkXlHBfnUTXgw-YZwPhYWqM25vfV1f1JYfR_GMG5nlY30pJRO7o58Zq4gKVk3g3cCMWeDUy0e3AxnexglY7xMd6iGyRpqk/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjjKHV-_AR0y5fKqKdKnBjFR7fhB5hd8OuiTkhJHi9UEbyqbkXlHBfnUTXgw-YZwPhYWqM25vfV1f1JYfR_GMG5nlY30pJRO7o58Zq4gKVk3g3cCMWeDUy0e3AxnexglY7xMd6iGyRpqk/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" title="finished playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Let the playing begin.</div>
<br />Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-50346303560701587562013-06-26T06:00:00.000-04:002013-06-26T06:00:12.945-04:00Wrensday: Checking Out The Chickens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of the things I love about living at Brown Wren Acres is opportunity to teach my grandlittles about nature. </div>
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Our first little grandgal is fascinated by the newest group of chickens we raised from peeps. She's not quite sure if she likes them, but she can't take her eyes off of them. They are in our portable chicken coop that we move around the yard. <br />
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These Buff Orpingtons are almost ready to go into the big pen with the older hens. They should be laying eggs in a week or two. <br />
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Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-5430102927939566122013-06-24T10:07:00.003-04:002013-06-24T10:07:50.292-04:00A Playhouse Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once upon a time a family bought a house that came with a wonderful little playhouse attached to the deck. </div>
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The youngest daughter in the family was married in the backyard of the home and used the playhouse as a backdrop for some of her wedding photos. Read all about the wedding<a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2010/10/time-line-for-rustic-wedding.html"> here</a>.</div>
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Alas, the family's children were already grown, so the playhouse was used as a storage shed for all of the grown children's old toys. You should also know that the mother of the family (aka "Honey") had a tendency to hoard sentimental things. She could not help herself but she is much improved now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmLalNum7MsZ0UjUirXD2LKNTNu0TPhuZAuGYFIHTR9veQpJk4SOe-mRAYT6fvWr_PRneDaMCBwT_7cAsQVY6d0pYeiUrWmlNgoWk1CBI-US6xyALSssLVBvXieHHl44ANm5uV9-4n8b5/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmLalNum7MsZ0UjUirXD2LKNTNu0TPhuZAuGYFIHTR9veQpJk4SOe-mRAYT6fvWr_PRneDaMCBwT_7cAsQVY6d0pYeiUrWmlNgoWk1CBI-US6xyALSssLVBvXieHHl44ANm5uV9-4n8b5/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" height="640" title="crowded and unfinished playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="416" /></a></div>
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It also housed folding chairs and Papa's hammock - anything that didn't have a home somewhere else.</div>
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It was dark, crowded, and spidery.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQcMTKlxNqpgC22uYqISmjipo__d76O2kkYY1TI79iAJrUuGa9e_egtn_vqzfx5WjcBNqM8mee0k3xgnRM3Mm26Nn1ZIaFBSCNOCoPAY8G1cCnJFDDD3g9gTCMP8mMgEiFpmsGFJLQRs7/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQcMTKlxNqpgC22uYqISmjipo__d76O2kkYY1TI79iAJrUuGa9e_egtn_vqzfx5WjcBNqM8mee0k3xgnRM3Mm26Nn1ZIaFBSCNOCoPAY8G1cCnJFDDD3g9gTCMP8mMgEiFpmsGFJLQRs7/s320/DSC_0004.JPG" height="424" title="playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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So one day Honey had a great plan - have all of the grown children come over (dinner was promised) and insist they go through all of their old toys and get rid of any they didn't want to keep for their own children.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7YYV5zveLbVdfm2-vUp3VYWX_UUB4ngcnxJZwKn0SIGoZhppdBPigJEONPAe77oewwwqiyYVucjUOdSeXUmXhH7Nr1qpf2HEEk1KanROlaaNqERW0ckfV306gEAi62HwxCn7CXBgtCPg/s1600/DSC_0273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7YYV5zveLbVdfm2-vUp3VYWX_UUB4ngcnxJZwKn0SIGoZhppdBPigJEONPAe77oewwwqiyYVucjUOdSeXUmXhH7Nr1qpf2HEEk1KanROlaaNqERW0ckfV306gEAi62HwxCn7CXBgtCPg/s320/DSC_0273.JPG" height="424" title="sorting toys by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The plan worked and even provided time for some grandlittle interaction. </div>
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The grandfellas always wore their boots when visiting in case running around in the mud was on the schedule. They had a great time checking out all of the toys that their mother had played with as a child<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRj940PKz4Pvqx80XvWfM-dvL9fFZlXxspXZDq5x4voxxaxv4C_BGJ0vs3xsLt3hOhAhue6ASu4DdtxpBlaXIi8mOVf2aSpXdnjxH8l4QepKzDFv2wJZR2X2Ck4EXiXV4ANwUaE2QaD00/s1600/DSC_0278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRj940PKz4Pvqx80XvWfM-dvL9fFZlXxspXZDq5x4voxxaxv4C_BGJ0vs3xsLt3hOhAhue6ASu4DdtxpBlaXIi8mOVf2aSpXdnjxH8l4QepKzDFv2wJZR2X2Ck4EXiXV4ANwUaE2QaD00/s320/DSC_0278.JPG" height="424" title="playing with toys by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVpRHgMQqYOYbCl9KmI3itWX7YD5EtihYajipnEAkV5weexEAjBzFyZfldEqBEGgbNxBmgJ1Fbin2BPvK6KEkr5N7rC8yt8xOnZohE0Rc3banpSBjTIoybfxh6rKSGmomTW3F3837h2r-V/s1600/DSC_0280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVpRHgMQqYOYbCl9KmI3itWX7YD5EtihYajipnEAkV5weexEAjBzFyZfldEqBEGgbNxBmgJ1Fbin2BPvK6KEkr5N7rC8yt8xOnZohE0Rc3banpSBjTIoybfxh6rKSGmomTW3F3837h2r-V/s320/DSC_0280.JPG" height="424" title="playing with toys by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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As it started to get dark, all that was left to go through was the mountain of Barbie stuff. The event was moved into the house.</div>
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The grandfellas wondered what all of the pink stuff was about.</div>
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The next day, with everything out of the playhouse, the family could see what the building was all about.</div>
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Honey took one look at the ceiling and shouted to her son, "Son, get me a crowbar!" Being a wise son, he suggested that maybe a cordless screwdriver might be a better solution. And he was right. And he did all of the work.<br />
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Little by little, the drop ceiling came down along with insulation that was full of ant nests, spiders, and all kinds of bug poo. Yuck.<br />
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After the gross stuff was cleared out, Honey got out her amazing vintage paint sprayer and started spraying the entire interior of the playhouse. She was especially happy to be using up all of the half used cans of paint from the garage - simply mixed together in a 5 gallon paint bucket. Honey loves free!<br />
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As the last two walls were getting their first coat, Honey was disappointed to find that she had burnt up the motor of her vintage paint sprayer. Bummer. The process had to be finished by hand.<br />
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After a second coat of paint, Honey put only the favorite toys back into the playhouse.</div>
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A shelf made by Papa many years ago held toys and bins.</div>
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The large bins in the corners held wooden blocks and matchbox cars with car ramps - all necessities of grandfella playtime.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ffGZLANJFPXpPPNTyAAHOSCjdy8J3Hh58YdQrux8GGcHMeTkI6DtbyZraTOJnsZ6q_s3WPrq8rDLbhhE-QEv1jwUXEfUeRAkBdsmy79tfRvaq93q1jTDPZIBnNPjEBNMaPVZME6UF5el/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ffGZLANJFPXpPPNTyAAHOSCjdy8J3Hh58YdQrux8GGcHMeTkI6DtbyZraTOJnsZ6q_s3WPrq8rDLbhhE-QEv1jwUXEfUeRAkBdsmy79tfRvaq93q1jTDPZIBnNPjEBNMaPVZME6UF5el/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" height="412" title="playhouse by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The family's three generations were happy with the improvements and the youngest ones played happily ever after.<br />
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* Papa plans on putting in an additional window to let in more light and a play rug is ready to be installed. The table and chairs will be transformed with paint and fabric, and a few additional storage options will be added. Updated pics will soon follow.Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-60576143800800174262013-06-12T23:14:00.000-04:002013-06-12T23:14:02.578-04:00The Finished Kitchen Remodel <br />
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Yes, we survived the kitchen remodel and I'm back to blogging again - I hope. The kitchen has been done for about 6 weeks now but between my camera breaking and some glitches with loading photos into blogger, I've been an absentee blogger. A big thanks to those of you who were concerned about me and checked in on me. </div>
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So. . . do you want a tour of the new space?</div>
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A few months ago, my kitchen looked like this. . . </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eiV-UPLXriPmMDrehRN3TqMNB9xo9AOYlhmZZ85PwpChYdfxoYKa5P2yFm4mzKIll_Is3hBYuJPuqg3bBUVoFYT0mqdjtOken_I0nXTxdX368pjRpE1RSx1mP_G0v_5J4s6kEtBOB_CV/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eiV-UPLXriPmMDrehRN3TqMNB9xo9AOYlhmZZ85PwpChYdfxoYKa5P2yFm4mzKIll_Is3hBYuJPuqg3bBUVoFYT0mqdjtOken_I0nXTxdX368pjRpE1RSx1mP_G0v_5J4s6kEtBOB_CV/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" title="old kitchen before remodel by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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And this. . . </div>
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And this. . . </div>
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<img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgsqQRKOQrHNYF5ysmwOkncbVV05bCrhmj0wgwI92pyL4Gx3MhPcJqvLSdqNID1XR7MnXkEO4qG3kC_GEUpFb6t3M0UpISquZ8Mi9sGH0_F_g1XZNLP-UTTe-wu67f9IYNziCH_8Tc9aev/s640/DSC_0006.JPG" title="kitchen remodel - before pictures by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></div>
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And there was a window looking down from our upstairs bedroom. . . <br />
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Then we decided to remodel and went through this for awhile. . .</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRNibkdJHhuX6A2cBChT69MM51FPP-0fTHo-VG0TpbaMYlMnd4K4cV9eCbpmui1ZK_xzh8JcYvTE3epQnopQ3i9cyx3r-Ymqjh1oL9zB-Mn-JB9wjAu0dZ254-vGP3Rr-X_-earCQ2vNp/s640/DSC_0044.JPG" title="kitchen remodel - during the process by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /><br />
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And some of this. . . </div>
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The room was finally starting to take shape. </div>
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And then we had this!!</div>
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I wasn't sure what I was going to do about the island. I really liked the functionality of the piece, but it was too busy and too white. My new cabinets are a vanilla color and the white island was just stark. </div>
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I'm very happy with the beams now that I've adjusted to them being different than the picture in my head. It pays to listen to the pros. The board and batten walls are wonderful - no more popcorn ceiling/walls in my kitchen. Also notice that there is no longer a window looking down from my bedroom into the kitchen. It's closed up on both sides.</div>
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After much thought, primer, and paint I'm happy with my decision to keep the island but make it fit the kitchen. I removed the fold out counter and all of the extra hooks and towel holders attached to the island. I patched the holes and primed everything with an oil based primer/stain block. Then I painted it with 3 coats of my favorite black paint and added matching hardware. I also sanded down the counter top and stained it darker. I'm on the look out for an old table top that I can replace it with, but for now it works fine with a beeswax finish. </div>
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I'm very happy with the end result. All of my dishes fit into my kitchen!!</div>
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The built in hutch is what you see when you first walk into our home from the foyer. I wanted it to be a welcoming site.</div>
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I really like the punch of color that my favorite green stool adds. </div>
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I have a vintage door in the garage that I am refinishing to replace the hollow core door leading to the utility room. Speaking of utility rooms, it needs a remodel. Yes, you know how it is, one remodeled room instantly makes the rest of the house look bad and leads to more remodeling. It took us 7 1/2 years to get to the kitchen. . . I wonder how long it will take us to get to the utility room.</div>
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Shhh. . . I have a plan. . . don't tell Hubs!</div>
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Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-3450663559205440322013-04-04T07:05:00.001-04:002013-04-04T07:05:52.595-04:00Kitchen Remodel - Almost done<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our kitchen remodel is almost done and I haven't posted photos in awhile. We had a delay in finishing the project when the floor guy never showed up. Our contractor had to bring in a different guy to complete the flooring with stain and 3 coats of finish. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCicx98Q4At1LptPIgmdl0C9RJBLvGq-1WH_vIvg-yBO3QHoaNfQEW7UeHBVUP30sxHhh9tnA2TqBIur8c2DUsa1_ZPnLTebWHFwRwLx5Kjstq-Yzfi4y9ABuwYnYI6F2Ms_tfEpjhM3bK/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCicx98Q4At1LptPIgmdl0C9RJBLvGq-1WH_vIvg-yBO3QHoaNfQEW7UeHBVUP30sxHhh9tnA2TqBIur8c2DUsa1_ZPnLTebWHFwRwLx5Kjstq-Yzfi4y9ABuwYnYI6F2Ms_tfEpjhM3bK/s640/DSC_0002.JPG" title="yellow pine flooring in kitchen by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Notice our new lighting - exterior lighting from Lowe's. We put in three lights - one over each window. We were still waiting for the cabinet maker to bring in our missing glass-front cabinet (see the empty space with phone wires sticking out on the left side?)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkg9FfFOFnjHMgyb-BCzzMiNRCVAnl7E-kFaC_ihsqkZZtwfCS4zp32cNFpYVkbTWVO-uG4J_D4DVQIQKDCXzgTOPwIe3D2WcVEuwTpcbVJeahyphenhyphenu2SUj4uDaY9GAlUrupEJN_htJFFiRZP/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkg9FfFOFnjHMgyb-BCzzMiNRCVAnl7E-kFaC_ihsqkZZtwfCS4zp32cNFpYVkbTWVO-uG4J_D4DVQIQKDCXzgTOPwIe3D2WcVEuwTpcbVJeahyphenhyphenu2SUj4uDaY9GAlUrupEJN_htJFFiRZP/s640/DSC_0003.JPG" title="kitchen remodel by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The ceiling fan purchase was quite a saga. One was ordered and paid for, order canceled, new one purchased, parts returned, ceiling fan installed, and finally hooked up. Whew, done! It is a Hunter ceiling fan hardwired to a wall switch but also has a remote control for fan speed and light control. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDcVCCDOY1EoLPTVSigRhgfWA9tZgZrWvIqygknCwKGvtbBVj9sYHkrUYGN6SY7akk87Tu-w2mRvVAI6DE9kqpdKK0PCULsNdQb-D3USq9jLi2JeE2DYAOlgwe2Mg0yxkVEgGlMVkgRHH/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDcVCCDOY1EoLPTVSigRhgfWA9tZgZrWvIqygknCwKGvtbBVj9sYHkrUYGN6SY7akk87Tu-w2mRvVAI6DE9kqpdKK0PCULsNdQb-D3USq9jLi2JeE2DYAOlgwe2Mg0yxkVEgGlMVkgRHH/s640/DSC_0004.JPG" title="Hunter ceiling fan by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The flooring was finally finished and the glass-front cabinet installed. Dust and fumes for 3 days.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASEhyphenhyphenq5YA8Z6d7XLPWLw6kvLqdm8TqDOV60gO2iiNJgHgwxQ7RrW1XtEfIAg4jRSldh6zBq-mv2uwRu9I6JniVGkbAUs-v-TJf639W1G_SHGZYzvBaeClxNHFTqNDwmdPEbaEMX65Ne6N/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASEhyphenhyphenq5YA8Z6d7XLPWLw6kvLqdm8TqDOV60gO2iiNJgHgwxQ7RrW1XtEfIAg4jRSldh6zBq-mv2uwRu9I6JniVGkbAUs-v-TJf639W1G_SHGZYzvBaeClxNHFTqNDwmdPEbaEMX65Ne6N/s640/DSC_0006.JPG" title="yellow pine floors with stain and poly finish by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The guys did a great job with the transition from wood to brick floors. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiO0LsazIxNDmyJ_RoX4ky_kzvqQ0UP0hXUHEn0Tt-vrKlZlpLM3PBSdbia_hlcs8R3NyVsrm1kNLqIC8kOEY_unlcXqWijhxDCQMG_x0nUsmo_0ARa2n_uR6Lh0FPB6Zx2-XzNab3ABwL/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiO0LsazIxNDmyJ_RoX4ky_kzvqQ0UP0hXUHEn0Tt-vrKlZlpLM3PBSdbia_hlcs8R3NyVsrm1kNLqIC8kOEY_unlcXqWijhxDCQMG_x0nUsmo_0ARa2n_uR6Lh0FPB6Zx2-XzNab3ABwL/s640/DSC_0007.JPG" title="transition from wood to brick floor by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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We were able to get the fridge and stove installed in time to have Easter dinner. We pushed our old island into the middle of the kitchen temporarily - I'll be refinishing it soon to match the rest of the kitchen. Our youngest grandfella loves to help Papa wash dishes at the new sink. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-01DjSVvjKq7Hbpt3F82yZQIuYzG-qDh5C4hiaiFA4H-zeMfZYXP7lypNCLgLMJc1-v4N8Mfbs8lYtAW6A_ppudf-6HHWt_u6uoPYkA7tq4okX2YbjniMsAUocba-mFtyK_314JHvWpX/s1600/DSC_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-01DjSVvjKq7Hbpt3F82yZQIuYzG-qDh5C4hiaiFA4H-zeMfZYXP7lypNCLgLMJc1-v4N8Mfbs8lYtAW6A_ppudf-6HHWt_u6uoPYkA7tq4okX2YbjniMsAUocba-mFtyK_314JHvWpX/s640/DSC_0084.JPG" title="helping Papa wash dishes by tidybrownwren.blogspot" width="424" /></a></div>
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Papa makes it look like so much fun.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIWPLCHvAVssWol010bQiHIcCzxWwcGITEYuZp4O_cUk7zprSpbXgyAKFK2oO-Hz2RzHBZrCcZx-kZTGIN-9P_BF_y6bSBUHFRSDIW8KiUUYBcKp05ObIcZqHewGD1O7nzL2SjJVRwFt0/s1600/DSC_0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIWPLCHvAVssWol010bQiHIcCzxWwcGITEYuZp4O_cUk7zprSpbXgyAKFK2oO-Hz2RzHBZrCcZx-kZTGIN-9P_BF_y6bSBUHFRSDIW8KiUUYBcKp05ObIcZqHewGD1O7nzL2SjJVRwFt0/s640/DSC_0086.JPG" title="Papa makes washing dishes look like fun by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just a few more details to be finished and we'll be done with the kitchen remodel. It's been an interesting trip. Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-74221541935386353702013-03-12T10:23:00.000-04:002013-03-12T10:23:25.518-04:00A Few Comforts During A Kitchen Remodel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just because your house is a mess doesn't mean that you have to feel like a mess yourself.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGY-t3ecja9pfUPqQCW6hM-zAVKC6bj2jfTIc4BkFmqYaw892W1oodxTku90X3NyIuNYBbibSfwNKKveV2_XDr7hFav57blc2qKVDxtkR0Z3IXavI1PqnGtjo5daDpjStKodXYcwzz2e2B/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGY-t3ecja9pfUPqQCW6hM-zAVKC6bj2jfTIc4BkFmqYaw892W1oodxTku90X3NyIuNYBbibSfwNKKveV2_XDr7hFav57blc2qKVDxtkR0Z3IXavI1PqnGtjo5daDpjStKodXYcwzz2e2B/s640/DSC_0032.JPG" title="remodeling a kitchen by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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While this kitchen remodeling project continues (we're on week 7 now) I've worked very hard to keep a bit of civility and calmness in several areas of our home. I need quiet places to rest my eyes and my spirit amidst the chaos.<br />
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I'm so glad our Camellias are in full bloom right now. I'm able to keep fresh blooms in our foyer to cheer everyone up. (you might notice the dust below the vases, but I'm pretending it's not there)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNEEonat29-wvw95S7t_NLmxxFxzQUar0WOI1bmUHYEd7h5poPt1o1NxR0sJvpQxiIM4hefYXaRgWj-7iNRsXNHgt4ejRNa7SkBqttmNjcqeV2okmmjgzv9sGzKCFP1B9QHKadnXpty8n/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNEEonat29-wvw95S7t_NLmxxFxzQUar0WOI1bmUHYEd7h5poPt1o1NxR0sJvpQxiIM4hefYXaRgWj-7iNRsXNHgt4ejRNa7SkBqttmNjcqeV2okmmjgzv9sGzKCFP1B9QHKadnXpty8n/s640/DSC_0059.JPG" title="winter camellias by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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One of my sweet little preschool students gave me an Amaryllis bulb as a Christmas gift. I planted it right after Christmas and was so pleased to see that it was beginning to bloom just when I needed it the most. It holds a blooming place of honor on the dining room table for everyone to enjoy. It's been blooming for over a month now. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3ol5Z8aDVBYlSeHKMlG08a5uomkjfBK2KT_JMLG4FqNQ-h0kA-BDCQuMPfkBrieDEmWe8mukRrQpt20m0qcm_ddxEptPaobtyaXh7z1GEogab8Z9sA4l2SPH4euzrbBfIGB18PwFNDte/s1600/DSC_0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3ol5Z8aDVBYlSeHKMlG08a5uomkjfBK2KT_JMLG4FqNQ-h0kA-BDCQuMPfkBrieDEmWe8mukRrQpt20m0qcm_ddxEptPaobtyaXh7z1GEogab8Z9sA4l2SPH4euzrbBfIGB18PwFNDte/s640/DSC_0108.JPG" title="amaryllis blooms during kitchen renovation by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made it a priority to keep our bedroom as calm and clean as possible. I purposefully did not store any boxes or extra things in our bedroom to keep it clutter free. I bought an air purifier to help us breath better at night. I also damp dust and damp mop every day and wash the linens twice a week to keep us from sleeping in dust. I knew we needed a place where no sign of construction was going on as a retreat.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Hk-uCqXfH4/TvYpEHQQGxI/AAAAAAAADQc/RwASmETr9lo/s1600/DSC_0478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Hk-uCqXfH4/TvYpEHQQGxI/AAAAAAAADQc/RwASmETr9lo/s640/DSC_0478.JPG" title="calm bedroom by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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I wrote the words to one of my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axmYsspKqeI">current favorite songs</a> on the chalkboard inside my pantry. It helps to keep me focused in a positive direction - which I need to be reminded of frequently.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIX3XqG6L97dRR86oGitZqqpgy3835mUzjdTAde2caR-4cDmtGs7ZQHkh2AanvvDuOVg6nYgXFaz2IRQcWOc-c7c3AnhwsFjSjs1UICLQ58VoxCTWqMG9a_kB-2nQ5uz6UYb9WdMvoB1d/s1600/DSC_0074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIX3XqG6L97dRR86oGitZqqpgy3835mUzjdTAde2caR-4cDmtGs7ZQHkh2AanvvDuOVg6nYgXFaz2IRQcWOc-c7c3AnhwsFjSjs1UICLQ58VoxCTWqMG9a_kB-2nQ5uz6UYb9WdMvoB1d/s640/DSC_0074.JPG" title="Let my words be life by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-13398288122317007012013-03-07T13:07:00.000-05:002013-03-07T13:07:19.357-05:00Kitchen Remodel: Making Progress With The Floors and Cabinets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, the yellow pine floors finally made their appearance and they are perfect. </div>
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They won't have a finish until everything else is done.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRb4ROqOl42vIoBr7nMh7RH58_mn1JGf7R3zk-x7gdZrXZ26v1ScqqKz9fgTbbpzXveyNxzd3Uw8fbWZMocyuHoo6GtyskYKvHiN43iQVCx0ttHBo_7RJ5faW3xig6Dlhyphenhyphen2pxQYbXJUaK/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRb4ROqOl42vIoBr7nMh7RH58_mn1JGf7R3zk-x7gdZrXZ26v1ScqqKz9fgTbbpzXveyNxzd3Uw8fbWZMocyuHoo6GtyskYKvHiN43iQVCx0ttHBo_7RJ5faW3xig6Dlhyphenhyphen2pxQYbXJUaK/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" title="yellow pine floors in the kitchen remodel by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can see the difference between the old floor in the utility room and new floor in the kitchen. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuQ2MKp0-7rg81HDVCP7o5LsbGD3p7rg0zZjK0UKDVG6RmUEp7_5buufz8dGpyqI0qHl3BsDz6xagoY8mhPy6F9OR3rxqHpVpnRnOMK-_Ps9_h2te2XW_8sZfBGFkOC9vgcxwTTWWW7NT/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuQ2MKp0-7rg81HDVCP7o5LsbGD3p7rg0zZjK0UKDVG6RmUEp7_5buufz8dGpyqI0qHl3BsDz6xagoY8mhPy6F9OR3rxqHpVpnRnOMK-_Ps9_h2te2XW_8sZfBGFkOC9vgcxwTTWWW7NT/s640/DSC_0010.JPG" title="yellow pine floors in the kitchen remodel by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The following day, the cabinet boxes went in. We had a local guy build the custom cabinets. It cost considerably less to have him build the cabinets than to buy them from a big box store. Plus, they are custom!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-EhK_zIVUlGzJqXCU11_h3aXq4XXRcwjsdqkxVRLZiRHbf_M1pXXMy3WjsPt2f3n2dSthMuQU9KPQYUhYV6Dwh4rgtLUPcwzfW2zbEFTfxUSE_DL7bbieG2_S_fGWML6_0741tFk_Jzo/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-EhK_zIVUlGzJqXCU11_h3aXq4XXRcwjsdqkxVRLZiRHbf_M1pXXMy3WjsPt2f3n2dSthMuQU9KPQYUhYV6Dwh4rgtLUPcwzfW2zbEFTfxUSE_DL7bbieG2_S_fGWML6_0741tFk_Jzo/s640/DSC_0021.JPG" title="custom cabinets in the kitchen remodel by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The stove will go to the far right. The fridge will go to the right of the window. A farmhouse sink will go under the window with the dishwasher to the left. <br />
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We have a nice glass-front upper cabinet ready to be installed to the left of the new window. With additional trim, it will look like a small china cupboard. Because of the extra trim it will be installed after the granite goes in. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSopq1-ITyEbhdH7ttltWdyf2rMXHf4ATvZz5rM8pNeiDRmF7x_9afR6gO_j7bj6YfmqKQKkhk-KuGlyklznSbiyfs2Zj59NBstrqdTE3abHNtaiD3vGEtWgbkUPa80CC66p7DJl3dROzm/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSopq1-ITyEbhdH7ttltWdyf2rMXHf4ATvZz5rM8pNeiDRmF7x_9afR6gO_j7bj6YfmqKQKkhk-KuGlyklznSbiyfs2Zj59NBstrqdTE3abHNtaiD3vGEtWgbkUPa80CC66p7DJl3dROzm/s640/DSC_0023.JPG" title="New cabinets in the kitchen remodel by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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Rough cut wood is being picked up right now to be used as a faux beam over each of the windows and upper cabinets to match the beams in the rest of the house. <br />
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A few hours after I took the pictures above, the cabinet guys came to install most of the drawers and doors and the hardware. <br />
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Here is the area where the stove will go. I bought the drawer pulls from Target and the door handles at Home Depot. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjAbIbZ8K7tSZIwVNRlTgT103sDKKTTbzFrggOnXKp9IsV-iVJ3edB7xWelmfVZh6NoqqU0oiYwktAG9vrs5hiE1jQTDt_yCjOW2KVjP985AjuRBGAfc0kQQei9-rbqMjJq4mhMwEpCim/s1600/DSC_0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjAbIbZ8K7tSZIwVNRlTgT103sDKKTTbzFrggOnXKp9IsV-iVJ3edB7xWelmfVZh6NoqqU0oiYwktAG9vrs5hiE1jQTDt_yCjOW2KVjP985AjuRBGAfc0kQQei9-rbqMjJq4mhMwEpCim/s640/DSC_0039.JPG" title="Custom cabinets in kitchen remodel by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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A few more hinges and pulls still need to be installed as well as the adjustable shelves. All of the drawers have the soft close sliders which I'm excited about. <br />
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I'm off now to purchase the lights we finally picked out and also some additional door pulls. I can't believe I didn't count correctly! Good grief. We've decided to reuse our old ceiling fan so I'm just going to pick up a new light kit - I'm thinking schoolhouse light. Of course, I'm going to spray paint the old fan to freshen it up. Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-51792247196242129462013-02-28T15:03:00.000-05:002013-02-28T15:03:16.827-05:00Update On The Kitchen Remodel At Brown Wren Acres<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Whew! I finally have a chance to post an update on our kitchen remodeling project. </div>
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There is lots of wood and dust, nails and screws, bricks and sand. </div>
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Here is a view into the kitchen from the "keeping room" area in front of the fireplace. We have an open concept house, so it's hard to describe. To the right, through the doorway, is our utility room. The large plaid object to the right is our stove covered with a blanket. </div>
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The ceiling is bead board and the walls are being prepped for board and batten.</div>
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Here is the same view after the painters came and after Hubs and I removed the brick flooring. </div>
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This view was taken from the doorway to the utility room. Notice the new beams and the board and batten siding. The old walls and ceiling had been sprayed with popcorn ceiling texture - I'm not kidding - yes, in a kitchen. Every morning I came down to get coffee and found popcorn texture on my counters and floor. <br />
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Here is the same shot after the painters left. The new beams will be covered with rough cut wood to match the beams in the rest of the house. This was not the original plan for beam placement, but we decided we could live with the mistake. I really wanted them to be up against the ceiling, but they were installed while we were away at work, and we decided that it was too much work to correct the mistake. We're learning to like them where they are. <br />
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Here is a view of the old sliding glass doors. They were old Anderson sliders that had warped and we could barely open them. I actually sealed off the one on the left by caulking around the whole thing and taking the inside handle off so it couldn't be opened. <br />
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Here's the doorway to the back porch after the old door was removed. It was a very chilly day and I ran around the house with my winter coat on all day.<br />
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These new doors are ThermaTru and they are very heavy. Only the middle doors swing open.</div>
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We hope to get them stained tomorrow so we can get the new hardware on them (oil rubbed bronze, of course). We struggled with the decision to get these doors. We needed to get very sturdy, airtight doors, but by doing so we knew we would be losing some of our view with the wider door trim. We have a passive solar house, so it was hard to find a good door that could still have the passive solar rating. The doors will be stained to match the beams and trim in the rest of the house. <br />
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To save some money, Hubs and I decided to remove the brick flooring (only in the kitchen). It was a time consuming job and we were happy to save ourselves hundreds of dollars by doing it ourselves. There is no light in the kitchen, so we brought in a lamp from the living room. How romantic!<br />
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After taking up a few rows, we realized that:<br />
1. We were getting quite a few bricks stacked up and they were getting in our way.<br />
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2. The shortest way out of the house with the bricks was the back door - which couldn't be used because the door hardware wasn't installed yet (it was screwed shut). <br />
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3. The flooring guys were coming in 2 days (which really ended up being 7 days).<br />
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Being the resourceful cheapos that we are, we decided to open the new kitchen window, carefully cover the new window trim with a blanket, and throw the old bricks out the window.<br />
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Half of the first few bricks we threw out broke and we had to come up with a new plan. We want to be able to use the bricks to pave the floor of the new greenhouse (on my wish list). We really like to recycle and we didn't want to break all of the bricks. So. . . Hubs got an extra piece of plywood and propped it up outside against the bottom of the window. Then we slid the bricks down the plywood and into a pile. We had 400 bricks pulled up and piled outside in less than 2 1/2 hours. <br />
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So, how did we do with all of our grandlittles at the house during one week of the remodel? Well, we did a lot of bouncing. Our little exercise rebounder is worth it's weight in gold. The boys thought all of the plastic sheets hanging up made a fun little fort and they looked forward to an occasional peek behind the plastic to see the progress. Eating "picnic style" on paper plates was also an added treat. </div>
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We should be getting our new floor tomorrow and getting the doors stained. Next week the cabinets are scheduled to be delivered and the counter top measurements taken for the granite. Hopefully we'll be done in 2 weeks. We'll see.</div>
<br />Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-55176529270039954422013-02-13T05:00:00.000-05:002013-02-13T05:00:08.793-05:00Wrensday: Lunchtime during a remodel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What's one to do when your kitchen is torn up and it's time to feed hungry grandfellas their lunch? </div>
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Just heat it up in the microwave - as it sits outside on the porch floor. </div>
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Yum, yum. . . </div>
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I'm just glad there is an outlet on the porch! And the weather was warm and sunny.</div>
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*Many of you who know me know that I don't really like using a microwave oven. It's true. I don't. I'm making an exception in these coming weeks while things get put back together in our kitchen. </div>
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<a href="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/2012/03/the-microwave-why-you-should-avoid-it-and-other-options.html">Here's why I think microwave ovens are not good for regular use.</a></div>
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Last night I actually took a premade lasagna that I froze a month ago to my daughter's house to cook it in her oven while I babysat the grandlittles. I have several more freezer meals ready to heat up in my crock pot or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Presto-06006-Kitchen-Multi-Cooker-Steamer/dp/B002JM202I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1360724443&sr=8-1&keywords=electric+saucepan">electric saucepan</a>.</div>
Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-74620152718368387442013-02-09T17:10:00.000-05:002013-02-09T17:10:03.412-05:00Starting The Kitchen Remodel: Demo and Dust<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ah, nothing like a little dust and debris to make a dull winter interesting. We've begun the kitchen remodel and my kitchen no longer looks like this. . . </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8zNxrdVmpo3f1iYXu2aHp68OizoqX6m_MrFJhkvdfqnvvZY7vbCV9N7_bIVTstZSaQ8z7OcNBDhJwvmo4jN7nezjOXYhtIm75YxFZF63POZYm3ZZArarBqI09ICc33zHcHR1j7pcoYrP/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8zNxrdVmpo3f1iYXu2aHp68OizoqX6m_MrFJhkvdfqnvvZY7vbCV9N7_bIVTstZSaQ8z7OcNBDhJwvmo4jN7nezjOXYhtIm75YxFZF63POZYm3ZZArarBqI09ICc33zHcHR1j7pcoYrP/s640/DSC_0005.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Wondering how I got that cool shot? Well I have a handy-dandy window that looks down into my kitchen from my bedroom. How cool is that? Not! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4odXXq48dq_kYMYgp6CAMdEP1oOqz3czyaXixZE3GtlYFSSWklafAewkE9UdV5JPnA3kyVcCUSqwSbO3GBrxEhjO5GbLSySlEzusn7Kjos7FVQplAkF-_REPqQdRkQbTXsEi1FcanSEQQ/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4odXXq48dq_kYMYgp6CAMdEP1oOqz3czyaXixZE3GtlYFSSWklafAewkE9UdV5JPnA3kyVcCUSqwSbO3GBrxEhjO5GbLSySlEzusn7Kjos7FVQplAkF-_REPqQdRkQbTXsEi1FcanSEQQ/s640/DSC_0008.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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We're taking it out and boarding up the wall on both sides.</div>
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We had a sliding patio door that entered right into the kitchen. In fact, I could not open my oven door all the way because the door trim was in the way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGNz9gxL-RxAicj884JLKb84DHXqN77h1Dq4kFkYOpp0UUg4QB3hnoxWe51olcgCHy7LlLl1sMepOnAHuo_xKWMxS6J61fa1OSoa1xMSFHnycUCewL5XPkt8n3sReBCDcwUkL1_5iRSnf/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGNz9gxL-RxAicj884JLKb84DHXqN77h1Dq4kFkYOpp0UUg4QB3hnoxWe51olcgCHy7LlLl1sMepOnAHuo_xKWMxS6J61fa1OSoa1xMSFHnycUCewL5XPkt8n3sReBCDcwUkL1_5iRSnf/s640/DSC_0005.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogpsot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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We're putting a window in it's place so that we can have more cabinets and counter space. The oven will move to where the fridge is now (or where it was last week). Our contractor had to widen the opening and frame up the bottom part to make room for the new window.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckbiJUplGk0XfPPU3-0LZAOiVB0gj3nGu3fE1wZ0a0gbdVbvhOmTM19blmKUc73PVbLpjFhTje3lh1lGjtAOtidkzmUmfE00TJzygkiSHdAyjT_SuC5EHK0HpUwJEToZHuYm2vD4fPBdM/s1600/DSC_0070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckbiJUplGk0XfPPU3-0LZAOiVB0gj3nGu3fE1wZ0a0gbdVbvhOmTM19blmKUc73PVbLpjFhTje3lh1lGjtAOtidkzmUmfE00TJzygkiSHdAyjT_SuC5EHK0HpUwJEToZHuYm2vD4fPBdM/s640/DSC_0070.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The old window above the kitchen sink was not too bad, but Hubs (the master dishwasher and pan scrubber in our home) requested a larger window above <em>His</em> sink. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-7gQaZ1T8FqzVdlN5lTlSbFlPH5thNs5KdzoQQCg6qCK8WeJSTK8xH_EUdo00bhdOMaufOZi0BALEp93cRtxEZ5xjmmsKBkZy5CFZ7OJGNpZf29K98kaNQuF0nq0Kxv6umao5cRzhVHq/s1600/DSC_0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-7gQaZ1T8FqzVdlN5lTlSbFlPH5thNs5KdzoQQCg6qCK8WeJSTK8xH_EUdo00bhdOMaufOZi0BALEp93cRtxEZ5xjmmsKBkZy5CFZ7OJGNpZf29K98kaNQuF0nq0Kxv6umao5cRzhVHq/s640/DSC_0066.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogpspot.com" width="424" /></a></div>
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Here are the two new windows in place. We're waiting for the electrical to be roughed in now. The whole kitchen had to be rewired. Only a few surprises were found behind the walls. Cabinets are ordered, faucet and sink have been ordered, and the cabinet hardware picked out. I haven't found lighting I like yet and we'll go this week to pick out our counter tops. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUaCidwMEfTX49U2VZb7YVjrXbeaW9CzsYHgQcpXjrMzKCrtCmN0UbsACrFQB2JuqecyJvqyeN2cr2pAerGzXiTh1yuFjPBvBD-BmLy5SnbP-tY89Lr2oJ-zYNCREW-k3A9XZddXzWY7x/s1600/DSC_0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUaCidwMEfTX49U2VZb7YVjrXbeaW9CzsYHgQcpXjrMzKCrtCmN0UbsACrFQB2JuqecyJvqyeN2cr2pAerGzXiTh1yuFjPBvBD-BmLy5SnbP-tY89Lr2oJ-zYNCREW-k3A9XZddXzWY7x/s640/DSC_0086.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is what the kitchen looked like a few days after Christmas.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikoorQQPp2Yfoq5_cjEOMbWbMuSRbkn5oCnpi1waCjf1-dj1zgTPQiHLaq6Lxzoc2p_RWh_q8i3Jkd3Zb-Omg3x-h22ypf33gWNm1taq7cTijLtM4egGItlK_3oXPwi46NAr36YH1nKHJ/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikoorQQPp2Yfoq5_cjEOMbWbMuSRbkn5oCnpi1waCjf1-dj1zgTPQiHLaq6Lxzoc2p_RWh_q8i3Jkd3Zb-Omg3x-h22ypf33gWNm1taq7cTijLtM4egGItlK_3oXPwi46NAr36YH1nKHJ/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's what it looks like today!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3MfqsraUIweta1gpV3sDAtuCWh5X7n-8WtkLINhobaRMimyPhADepSjcAPpo89jROjir8L4yghVhHiw6HV9CE7c0NB-qE1ivcN2gLr_6-PE_ZOPcObL3PI2Mad9b-D1CwsmeP6e0i75o/s1600/DSC_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3MfqsraUIweta1gpV3sDAtuCWh5X7n-8WtkLINhobaRMimyPhADepSjcAPpo89jROjir8L4yghVhHiw6HV9CE7c0NB-qE1ivcN2gLr_6-PE_ZOPcObL3PI2Mad9b-D1CwsmeP6e0i75o/s640/DSC_0084.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh, did I mention that we're watching our grandsons this week? While their parents are on a cruise? For a week? On a cruise? Good times!Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-32964419999805432042013-01-25T19:55:00.001-05:002013-01-25T19:55:54.251-05:00Plans For A DIY Exercise Bike Stand<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thank you to so many of you who emailed me about plans for the <a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2011/06/how-to-make-your-own-exercise-bike-for.html">DIY Exercise Bike Stand</a>. I apologize that it has taken me so long to get the measurements to you, but they are finally here!</div>
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The wood was purchased at Home Depot and the bike pegs were purchased at Walmart in the bike section. </div>
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The bike we used for this project is a 24" 12 speed bike (I'm a shorty). I used the hardest gear while riding, but this set-up does not allow you to really get much resistance (for building muscle). It was great for getting my legs moving after some nerve damage. I also wanted to burn calories and get my heart rate up and this did the trick. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbBJFKCkNCB-NmDY3JN0LFPpIcVoKI_2LM3U8kleCGLUs-4_T0LA4mlbE1HM5s8i0vI_ACYsCW2n4l6OHX5wFKImuhvu2TgN271oj-FfWCdkO8RNplu-adqrpHomMFC4OOtg950-7M5nn/s1600/BIKE+LIFT1.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbBJFKCkNCB-NmDY3JN0LFPpIcVoKI_2LM3U8kleCGLUs-4_T0LA4mlbE1HM5s8i0vI_ACYsCW2n4l6OHX5wFKImuhvu2TgN271oj-FfWCdkO8RNplu-adqrpHomMFC4OOtg950-7M5nn/s640/BIKE+LIFT1.tif" title="Do it yourself exercise bike by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you have any questions, just shoot me an email.</div>
Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445493841504104785.post-68935892056403096472013-01-22T11:27:00.000-05:002013-01-22T11:27:26.937-05:00Do You Know About MedicAlert Bracelets?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This past summer, Hubs and I went on a <a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/2012/06/hiking-old-rag-mountain-milestone-of.html">wonderful hike</a>. I promised you I would write about the MedicAlert bracelet I wore while hiking. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3DhQfk4Ep_jyhhRKrSqy2EWKVaTqIukdHTCQhf1NQdhvbAWG46D6BkrhOtkhWdoxVr0vGVDtS9_yprrPb1Y25-YvWJ13jcO6eodL3iDxSO3m74nb_jPs12PXLRPoiBv73vahmphFXpFjZ/s1600/DSC_0083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3DhQfk4Ep_jyhhRKrSqy2EWKVaTqIukdHTCQhf1NQdhvbAWG46D6BkrhOtkhWdoxVr0vGVDtS9_yprrPb1Y25-YvWJ13jcO6eodL3iDxSO3m74nb_jPs12PXLRPoiBv73vahmphFXpFjZ/s640/DSC_0083.JPG" title="Medic Alert Bracelet by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is important that I have medical information available at all times in case of an emergency. I researched different types of medical alert companies and felt that <a href="http://www.medicalert.org/">Medic Alert</a> was the best organization for me and my family. I like that they are a nonprofit organization and I can update my information at any time.</div>
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If something were to happen to me while I was running errands, emergency personnel could look on my bracelet and find out the 3 most important medical issues I have (I'm allergic to sulfa drugs, I've had a kidney transplant, and I am immune suppressed). There is also a toll free number for them to call to find out what medications I am taking, who my doctors are, and who to contact in case of an emergency. </div>
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I am always wearing one of my bracelets - even when I'm in my own yard or house because emergencies can happen anywhere. </div>
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I ordered 2 bracelets when I signed up with MedicAlert. One that was practical and form fitting (the one picture above) to wear while gardening, hiking, or working on messy projects. I didn't want to have a bracelet that could get caught on branches, tools, or other things.</div>
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The other bracelet I ordered was a faux pearl bracelet that had a removable tag. I figured that pearls go with everything (I know this because I'm from the South). After wearing it every day for months, there came a fateful day. . . </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtyKfGJDqKb01tywOk8me9MzGm2HQejhLYpU6EjfVJwBG1UEGIUWyyVQbk5ccqixR8pSDLJ_Tc6KOjNMTOVK-KKeoaH-rTJpItDRRaCXMJ5v6ux1f5KqOMDJG7OXWxdGVnoqdu5enWWjzq/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtyKfGJDqKb01tywOk8me9MzGm2HQejhLYpU6EjfVJwBG1UEGIUWyyVQbk5ccqixR8pSDLJ_Tc6KOjNMTOVK-KKeoaH-rTJpItDRRaCXMJ5v6ux1f5KqOMDJG7OXWxdGVnoqdu5enWWjzq/s640/DSC_0033.JPG" title="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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The cotton string just couldn't hold up to my abuse. I knew I could fix it, but I had to get some more pearls and findings. When the bracelet broke, I lost some of them and didn't have any in my stash of craft stuff that was the same size. </div>
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So, not wanting to be unaccessorized. . . </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD873BGNNhX0QUKmEU4Ex5pnlPnrd9xS4S8CLdvW93SLwJj2z6yB5D1oZMOlq7fQhnLY8j_lFLZSdVh9vH4VU3RbchvqMvhwN01CaTseAReeMFS2o6q80LBqMEEk76vLXTIzURVgc3Rzhc/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD873BGNNhX0QUKmEU4Ex5pnlPnrd9xS4S8CLdvW93SLwJj2z6yB5D1oZMOlq7fQhnLY8j_lFLZSdVh9vH4VU3RbchvqMvhwN01CaTseAReeMFS2o6q80LBqMEEk76vLXTIzURVgc3Rzhc/s640/DSC_0037.JPG" title="new bracelet for Medic Alert tag by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made one with black and clear beads that I had on hand. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzB-7vw-PjfhZuSr6MpHfWV6rHZMJQTAEAoJRPOiFaWewhU3aIcw8yTRM7IVCzwliQGW0o8WCtz7ErCTuVCyPNMELW6QNsfQFF7ZsMcoX0yXhM9vEQWs2jqhO813NGeLiowdG53b1nfrL/s1600/DSC_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzB-7vw-PjfhZuSr6MpHfWV6rHZMJQTAEAoJRPOiFaWewhU3aIcw8yTRM7IVCzwliQGW0o8WCtz7ErCTuVCyPNMELW6QNsfQFF7ZsMcoX0yXhM9vEQWs2jqhO813NGeLiowdG53b1nfrL/s640/DSC_0047.JPG" title="aqua bracelet for Medic Alert tag by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then I went out and bought some more beads and findings. . . </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEljc_-flPj6PGJlBG95q0pPhxeCne-zONhq7z1ob-dfOZUspmMCeSgYwAzhc9L1PYTG2JIBbuwTh6F7cARqYIyYsJbl5tOBKuoVzBstvgnybpBhVc4Wfuo05zVj62ZBRRDcW84QaX8XC/s1600/DSC_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEljc_-flPj6PGJlBG95q0pPhxeCne-zONhq7z1ob-dfOZUspmMCeSgYwAzhc9L1PYTG2JIBbuwTh6F7cARqYIyYsJbl5tOBKuoVzBstvgnybpBhVc4Wfuo05zVj62ZBRRDcW84QaX8XC/s640/DSC_0055.JPG" title="pink bracelet for Medic Alert tag by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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I just couldn't stop. They were so fun to make. . . </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCy8_prfPW9x2huH4QLCYpJJjPkAenuGyeCi8IMaZuX2L1jkP7o-pO9HVKCIcs_aI45V6jNmGksC2vufrL_Lxnm9pKjoOB8jDEMU0R0ScPvAoSZ4REVtQNHgUli-U0BrDWmS-ZmFYaXrIw/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCy8_prfPW9x2huH4QLCYpJJjPkAenuGyeCi8IMaZuX2L1jkP7o-pO9HVKCIcs_aI45V6jNmGksC2vufrL_Lxnm9pKjoOB8jDEMU0R0ScPvAoSZ4REVtQNHgUli-U0BrDWmS-ZmFYaXrIw/s640/DSC_0059.JPG" title="pink pearl bracelet for Medic Alert tag by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's another one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4lUtQLv5_agwPXTAf5JbQAMCDw0zEouhOYpHz9Swj6BrFeVoJshN8bF4IdGHJy1asNq-koSbFEEykJ2KKSyWFnu4VXCfqaqBFj9xa0HcTszU5FDwMtw6KYq9xAgSKEkLJtM2Fjcrq7DR/s1600/DSC_0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4lUtQLv5_agwPXTAf5JbQAMCDw0zEouhOYpHz9Swj6BrFeVoJshN8bF4IdGHJy1asNq-koSbFEEykJ2KKSyWFnu4VXCfqaqBFj9xa0HcTszU5FDwMtw6KYq9xAgSKEkLJtM2Fjcrq7DR/s640/DSC_0064.JPG" title="brown bracelet for Medic Alert tag by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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And one in red.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifWzD14fXZGldJYU3p4eEy4BuxwQoUt-luwE0bHVi9SEVZSGGT33-7iabE1hrVryS_u1hNdKM14sjZtw-0KQQD0HocBv936-aC57iqrpzvY2aXCpvtSzrBRXk4zk2cwJoq56af4pzi9ed/s1600/DSC_0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifWzD14fXZGldJYU3p4eEy4BuxwQoUt-luwE0bHVi9SEVZSGGT33-7iabE1hrVryS_u1hNdKM14sjZtw-0KQQD0HocBv936-aC57iqrpzvY2aXCpvtSzrBRXk4zk2cwJoq56af4pzi9ed/s640/DSC_0068.JPG" title="red bracelet for Medic Alert tag by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh, yeah, I did get around to making another pearl one. I added some mini pearls that I had in my craft bin. Did you know that pearls go with everything?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjA4XUR6mfhzq14Pn5uZpgvMshU_AbzJWyDVzIVr5tXfng91qqsIkZAebIqaaFyQvl-4tr9YPs78On5S9j44mdttYvK7ag4VkR3d67dVpJownxX1WYB3AoiuyTqpJPBXgfiu-BIQ4x3aJG/s1600/DSC_0091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjA4XUR6mfhzq14Pn5uZpgvMshU_AbzJWyDVzIVr5tXfng91qqsIkZAebIqaaFyQvl-4tr9YPs78On5S9j44mdttYvK7ag4VkR3d67dVpJownxX1WYB3AoiuyTqpJPBXgfiu-BIQ4x3aJG/s640/DSC_0091.JPG" title="pearl bracelet by Medic Alert tag by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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A girl can never have too many accessories. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ_nV6Z4TCakIQKrGka3iWzT5nNC7mdoA515kZwS9XYJt9o0kVbMIpJXE2OMUF2Pmz_GPQ4u25-QIZOy-RWSOulnYA1wWcUUxO4GF_Iq2ha4uDT3oWJBu6RMit8-xBLdEqFPtnM6uK39KG/s1600/DSC_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ_nV6Z4TCakIQKrGka3iWzT5nNC7mdoA515kZwS9XYJt9o0kVbMIpJXE2OMUF2Pmz_GPQ4u25-QIZOy-RWSOulnYA1wWcUUxO4GF_Iq2ha4uDT3oWJBu6RMit8-xBLdEqFPtnM6uK39KG/s640/DSC_0095.JPG" title="bracelets for Medic Alert tag by tidybrownwren.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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I asked a friend who is a firefighter/EMT about my bracelet. I wanted to make sure that emergency personnel would not mistake the bracelet for just a piece of jewelry but would be able to recognize it as an alert bracelet. He assured me that it would be found but told me that the best thing to do is to have a piece of paper with all of my medical issues and medications in my wallet. He also said it is wish to let your loved ones and those you work with know where your piece of paper is. </div>
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Anyone who has a medical condition such as diabetes, allergies, hypertension etc. should have some sort of medical alert/contact system - even if it's just that piece of paper in your wallet. You never know when it could save your life.</div>
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For those interested in making your own bracelets, I'll be posting a tutorial soon. I've also seen some bracelets at Cracker Barrel that are meant to be used with a watch face, but they would work just fine with a Medic Alert tag. </div>
Tidy Brown Wrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02959395418436271183noreply@blogger.com1