The Blanket Ladder Project

I have always loved the idea of a ladder for extra blankets. It is practical, charmingly rustic, and easy to pull in and out depending on the season. I had been shopping around for them a bit online and was shocked on how much they cost.

I loved this one from Pottery Barn:

But it's base price is $179 and it is only available online, which means shipping and handling fees on top of the already bloated price.

I studied it more and decided not only could I make one, but I could alter the dimensions to better fit my needs. So...that's just what I did.

I thought I would need to go buy lumber, but I found 2 old spare fence slats in the garage, along with a random 8' square dowel.

I sanded down on the wood, cut angles to fit snug on the wall, and cut the dowel into 16" long "steps."

Glued and screwed pieces together and applied stain and sealant.

It fits nicely next to my end table and nesting baskets, plus it conceals that ugly outlet from kids, puppies, and my OCD eyes.

No big deal really, AND I got it done in half a day for FREE! Why did I wait so long to get a saw?! I love it, and the ladder is pretty awesome too. ;)

I'm telling you, DIY is the way to go!

M.LEWIS

The Farmhouse Table Top Project

I have been project-less for a bit now, and to be honest, I have had my hands full so it wasn't a huge void...but I discovered something...

I need projects for stress relief. Sure, I do love a good before & after picture, and I really enjoy surrounding myself and my home with stuff that makes me happy, but the actual process of doing something productive with my hands helps my stress levels more than I previously realized.

This past weekend I decided to execute a project I have been thinking about doing. Thanks to a recent Christmas gift, I was able to actually put things in motion, and I started my first wood-working project: farmhouse table top.

I crafted this idea for a separate table top to place over my existing kitchen table to give us more eating space (the picture below is the table not extended...we have been using it extended for years now, that's one old picture), more rustic character, and no table clothes! (btw, I hate table clothes. I need to wash them every 2 days and now our puppy likes to pull on them...not good)

I went to where every modern crafty person goes for more information and inspiration, pinterest. After looking at a couple different styles and techniques I was headed to the hardware store and rounded up supplies for my very loose plan on table top-making.

I started late Saturday afternoon with the frame.

Sunday I placed the top boards and filled in the gaps with wood filler.

Today I sanded the top, distressed it (kids helped), and applied 3 coats of stain/sealer. Thanks to the dry air, the coats dried in about half the time it normally would take...making my life a bit easier.

after filler and sanding, a bit of stain color testing

after stain/sealant coat 2

Still leaving it alone for the rest of the day to set, but tonight we dine on our new table!

I loved working with the wood and making something we will use all the time. I am pleased with the outcome and look forward to progressing my skills with my new tools.
Now for my next project! ;)


M.LEWIS

Closing 2014

So here we are, 2015. It is true what they say about being a parent, "The days are long, but the years are short."

In 2014, so much took place. Adalaide turned 1 and Lorelai turned 4. We got a new dog, and lost our minds a bit. ;)
We went to Disney World and the glorious Rocky Mountains. We celebrated holidays and special milestones, and we struggled through new challenges.

Lorelai is finally potty trained (in the day time) and Adalaide is only barely talking. My grandfather tackled and overcame grave medical complications, and other family members are just beginning their road to recovery.
I lost a sister-in-law due to divorce, and while this still saddens me, I am hopeful for everyone's future happiness.
We have begun talks on looking for a bigger house, but I know that saying goodbye to our current house will be bittersweet.
We have raised about $700 for St. Jude's, and walked in the rain and cold to show our support for such wonderful cause.
We also donated several animals, newborn care packages, and educational materials across America, and the world.
We welcomed new family members and friends into the world, as well as said goodbye to others.

2015 will bring more joy, more sadness; more laughs, more tears; small feats, and big accomplishments; stress, frustration, strength, growth, love, hope, prayers, and gratitude.

Thank you Lord for every good and bad moment, for I know this life is worth every up and every down. We are blessed for sure.

Bring it, 2015, I can't wait to see what you have in store...



M.LEWIS