Home Dec 101 Continues

So I tried this. If I should decide to use that chair in this room, I'm going to have it reupholstered in either pink nubby fabric or pink stripe or pink checks. Something nice and pink.

I've pretty much decided (though I could change my mind) that I'm painting the hutch antique white and the backs of the shelves pink. If I keep my present mindset, I'm leaving the bookshelves as they are for several reasons: 1) Vann built them and stained them, 2) I like keeping something a little darker in that room, and 3) that's a lot of painting.

I have my sage green paint for the walls and antique white for the hutch. 

Keep in mind that I have another corner in this room that will need decorating, one with a window to let in wonderful light. That might be the place for the reading chair and end table. Late in the afternoon, the sun slants through that window.

Oh, and here's a photo of the top of the little white pie crust table. This shows why I would never paint or decoupage or in any way alter this table. It was painted for me by Penny a Lavender Hill Studios. She also did the china mosaic top. It will likely go back to my bedroom.

Behind all that junk in the photo of the window corner of the room is a long table. I'm either keeping it there or replacing it with a shorter table. I found this 50s tablecloth on Ebay, bid on it, and I mean to have it. I'm keeping my eye on the bidding for the next three hours to make sure no one beat me out.

I'm going to cover the long table with a pink sheet, and put the tablecloth on top.

I've also been perusing decorating sites some more for more inspiration. Below are a few things I saw.

 

Above is a different arrangement of the Cozy Little House shot from Saturday, where Brenda has used a large chair and end table between the bookshelves instead of the table and chairs. You can see in this shot that her walls are approximately the same shade mine will be.

The photos below are just for fun and inspiration.

 

   

  

And below is a bit of inspiration for my sewing room project--the next to be tackled after my study/office is finished. I can't remember whose room this is. I've had the photo on my computer desktop for a long time.

 

Bye now. Gotta go check on my tablecloth.

  

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On 02/28/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Hi there! Hope you get the tablecloth! Fingers crossed for you!

I am glad you've decided not to paint the bookcases and it's really special that Vann built them and stained them for you. I hope you'll even consider not painting the backs of the shelves since they won't be seen much once books or pretty things are on the shelves. If you're pretty things are pale colers, they'll be lost against pink but will stand out against the wood stain. I suggest you put things in place and then make your decision about paint or no paint.

What does the wing chair look like with the charming tile-top pie crust table that Penny decorated beside it look like?

As for the other corner of the room, I thought a photo of the L shape desk by a window in your first set of pictures is what you had in mind for that side of the room. The long desk area in the picture would be useful for business, scrapbooking (if you do that), or for many other activities needing layout space.

As Sue Bender wrote in her book "Plain and Simple", remember to enjoy the process!

Hugs!

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On 02/28/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

YIKES! In the 2nd paragraph, make that "your pretty things ..."

When will I learn to proof read??

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On 02/28/2010, Kelly Ann said ...

The Cozy little house shot with the same color walls is the way to go. The hutch in between the two bookcases looks all crowded, pull them apart, put your comfy chair, small table with a nice floor lamp..perfect reading area. Instead of painting the back of the bookcases use a pretty fabric with a small print to brighten them up.

You could use your hutch with the two chairs and table as another sitting area for tea with some nice tea pots and cups on the hutch.

just some thoughts...

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On 02/28/2010, Bev said ...

For some more inspiration, you should check out http://happyandrosie.blogspot.com, the British designer. Check out her "happy picies" for yummy decorating inspiration!

Cheery wave from
Bev
http://44thstreetfabric.blogspot.com

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On 02/28/2010, Linda Card said ...

I love the idea of sage green walls, pink chair, and white book shelves with the perfect pinkish wall paper on the back. I think that I would never want to leave that room. I hope that you post photos as you transition this room.

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On 02/28/2010, Mallory said ...

Great inspiration photos! How fun!

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On 03/01/2010, May Kristin said ...

Hi Susan!
Hope you are feeling better by now, and wish you luck with your decoration! Look forward to see the finished result!
Take care! May Kristin

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On 03/01/2010, Nicole said ...

The cozy armchair looks like it was meant to be there! What an appealing reading nook!

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On 03/01/2010, Karen S. said ...

The photo is from the blog ANYONE CAN QUILT, really cute room!!

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On 03/03/2010, alexandrine said ...

I think you'll go to found to much inspirations for your room!!!!

;-DDDD
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What About This?

 

Great comments, all of them. Now look at this pic and tell me what you think. Say I paint the shelves and the hutch white (or cream, or maybe even a very pale pink), the walls a light sage green, get a larger table, make cushions for the chairs, fill shelves and hutch with books and pretty collectibles. What say you? 

And maybe a circular rub under the table and chairs.

If you haven't commented on the first idea (below) I want all the comments I can get about either arrangement. I'm not really good with home dec. I need all the help I can get.

And Alison, I love your idea about a hanging the door of the little cedar armoire. Even if I put it somewhere else, I'm going to do that.

 Or even NO table and chairs? 

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On 02/27/2010, Alathia Carroll said ...

Love the blue desk! Can't tell from the photo if it "clashes" with the walls, but again I love the color of the desk/hutch. Since it looks like a desk, the table & 2 chairs seem a bit out of place in front of a desk. If you made a pretty skirt for the desk, the table and chairs wouldn't look so out of place. And you could hide all kinds of goodies (organized in rolling carts) under the desk!!!

Yes, to a bigger table, if you go that route. Check out TJMaxx and Home Goods, I saw some tables there that would be the right size/scale.

Yep, the bookshelves need to be painted white or cream. Then you can line the back with a coordinating fabric/scrapbook paper/wallpaper. Then if you needed to move them to another area of the house, you won't have to repaint.

I like where you're headed with this room.

Alathia

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On 02/27/2010, Jan said ...

Oh what fun! I haven't had a chance to stop by in a few days, but it looks like you're in decorating mode. I'm partial to the first picture in this post w/the blue desk, which I think will look awesome painted white w/the green walls. I also think a bigger table w/the chairs and cushions will look awesome and I like Alathia's idea of making a little skirt for the desk :) I like the looks of the desk better than the armoire below :) I also love those boxes you got at Joanne's! I've had my eye on some for quite a while now ... had no idea they were on sale! Tks for that tip and good luck w/the room :)

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On 02/27/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

I like this corner piece more as it's size helps it hold it's own with the bookcases that flank it.

The table and chairs seem to crowd the area, but perhaps that's because the various shelves aren't yet filled as they are in the inspiration picture. I think I'd wait for the final decision about this until you have the shelves as you decide to have them and filled. Goodwill has furniture, too, if you choose to get another table.

Could Sophie have a little bed under the corner desk?

Can we see a wing chair, footstool, lamp, and throw?! With and without the little table? That says cozy reading spot to me.

Moving furniture is just what you had in mind for this afternoon, isn't it?! No???????!

Hugs!

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On 02/27/2010, Jane McCarthy said ...

Love the blue desk option (1st picture). Also like the idea of the green walls and white or cream woodwork (to match the chairs) on all 3 pieces of furniture. Still would line the backs of the shelves with color. Agree with all that say the table isn't to scale. Darling table, just needs to be a tad bigger. Also would make sure to put knick knacks (old bird cage, bird houses, balls of yarn in glass vase, plants,etc.) on top of middle hutch to make it slightly taller than the bookcases on either side. You could display a few vintage cameras from Vann's camera collection on some of the shelves (mixed with other things). You will have so much fun with this! You're definitely headed in the right direction.

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On 02/27/2010, Debi said ...

Paint those bookshelves white, get a bigger table, use your ideas for color and it will look cozy and warm.

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On 02/27/2010, Joanne said ...

I'm too tired to type, but I've got to say how much I like your decorating ideas. One thing I noticed in your inspiration picture is that the table and chairs, with their deep colors, make a nice focal point. I agree you need a larger table, and I would make the table and chairs match colorwise, and be very bright.
I saw those gorgeous boxes when I was at your house today, and meant to ask where you got 'em, but I forgot.
Thanks again for the books. - Una

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On 02/27/2010, Rae Ann said ...

I think you are well on your way and it seems you have the right idea to accomplish what you want. Have fun with your decorating and I hope you get on top of your sinus infection.

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On 02/27/2010, Lisa A said ...

You're definitely on the right track. Like the blue corner unit. Put some cushions on the chairs that have a little blue in them. Larger table. I like painted shelves. Mine are white like the trim in my room.

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On 02/27/2010, Pat said ...

I like the idea of white or cream for the shelves and hutch. And maybe one comfy upholstered chair and small table, with rug, as a reading nook in front of all those wonderful books. Your boxes would look great with the color scheme you've chosen and I think maybe on top of the hutch. Somehow it seems dwarfed and the middle piece needs some height. You always inspire me!!

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On 02/27/2010, Debra Spincic said ...

I may be the only one here who says to leave the bookcases alone. I have a mainly pastel colored house (blues and greens and peach) and I found that I need some heavier, darker colors to tame all that sweetnes or else you begin feeling like you live in an Easter basket. At least from the pictures it looks like the wood has some nice patina and I would hate to cover that with paint (and I love painted wood). Besides, they will be covered with books and stuff so why bother?

I also like the hutch the way it is and I don't think it looks like a desk--again, it is going to take you maybe 2 weeks max & it will be covered with stuff too (am I right?)

I think I would prefer an upholstered chair and the small table rather than the 2 "kitchen" chairs. I might leave one of them in the room as an accent piece (or to collect more junk, whichever comes first). Of the pieces, I would paint the chair some wild and crazy color -- maybe hot pink and add a fun cushion. One chair is much quicker to paint than 2 bookcases and a hutch. Let's be realistic. You could also use the fabric from the cushion as fabric for the top of the table and either decoupage it down to the table or have glass cut (although those scallops look intimidating for cut glass).

I like the wall color the shade it is--goes nicely with the hutch color. I would probably bring in some more natural colors like the wood tone; maybe some wicker. I would even consider some kind of a wicker chair as your "upholstered chair" and then you could have cushions in a fun print -- or wrap them in old quilts.
You could also hang a small quilt for the window topper.

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On 02/28/2010, Carol said ...

I like the idea of an upholstered chair and small table with a lamp too, rather than the table and chairs. Make it look more like a cozy reading area. It's going to be wonderful!

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On 02/28/2010, Sharon said ...

I would paint the bookcases, probably an off-white. One thing I did with a painted bookcase was paint the inside back surface a color, maybe a shade darker than the walls. I love color, and a little bit of color then peeks out over the top of the books, and behind the little pretty knick-knacks you would put there. I also like the idea of a comfy chair, not a huge one, but one that you want to settle into for a time, and a bigger table, - and good lighting somewhere, maybe on the desk top. I'd have a colorful pillow or two in the chair, and a rug underneath the table and chair - maybe round, maybe square, but with some color in it, probably subdued a little. The books in the shelves are a form of design and art. I don't think I'd skirt the desk, as it would look too fussy and overdone. I like the color of the desk the way it is.
I too have tons of books, am slowly weeding out the ones I know I won't read again.
I also love those storage boxes. I did find one at JoAnn's, and another one or two at Hobby Lobby. I wanted something that looked nice to put different categories of mementos in, and I keep checking those stores to find another one or two - sometimes they're hard to find. Mine don't match like yours do, though, but that's ok.

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On 02/28/2010, Alison said ...

I'm so glad you liked my suggestion on the door hanging :o). It must be the feeling that spring is on the way, I'm having a good clearout here as well, ebay is a wonderful invention!

And since you asked, I'll make a couple more comments on your layout {grin}. We quilters do like to give our opinions LOL! I love green, so your idea of sage walls sounds wonderful, and the dark wood of the bookcases would look great against it (you won't see as much of the wood once you have all your lovely goodies on the shelves). I'm not a fan of distressed paint effects, so I would paint the blue unit cream, possibly with the back of the shelves pink for a bit of variation, or the table top could be stripped and waxed and the rest painted (depending on the quality of the wood underneath). A comfy chair and the cute side table with a pretty rug to break up the cream of the carpet would also be great, I think.

PS - I agree that Plum Silly would be a great title for Plum Spooky, but it still made me laugh. I don't know how Janet Evanovich does it, but every book makes me laugh out loud at some point! You've got some interesting looking books on your list, I must see what my local library has.

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On 02/28/2010, CarlaH said ...

Hi Susan, I am somewhat of a minimalist and find that the two bookcases, the hutch/or desk plus two chairs and another table would make the room look way too crowded.I would go with the bookcases, a wing chair and the little table for a cup of coffee and a place to put down a book - of course you'll also need a lamp. But all in all, it all depends on what you are planning to do in that corner - are you likely to meet with someone there thus requiring two chairs. I would also leave the bookcases the colour they are - they would look lovely in a green and pink room. I'm in the middle of some redecorating/minimalizing as well so can well relate to your dilemmas. Be assured that it will all come together in the end whatever you decide to do - it has to work for you.
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Saturday Stuff

Do

You

Think 

This > > > > 

Can

Ever 

Be 

Made to

Look

This

Cute? > > > > > >

Use your imagination here and give me some ideas of how to bring my arrangement into line with the charm of the Cozy Little House vignette. Is it hopeless? Do I need to scrap the small armoire and find an open hutch? What do you think?

 

I found these pretty storage boxes at JoAnn's--70% off! Can you believe it? I thought I would use them to store photos and other memorabilia that's now in ugly shoe boxes. Don't you think they'll look fine with my green/pink color scheme?

  

My hares and tortoises (tortae?) are all stitched up. Only four more blocks to embroider for the Noah's Ark quilt. They have gone a lot faster than I had thought they would.

I'm still babying my sinus problems today. It's cloudy and cold. I'd like to stay inside for the rest of the day. But try telling that to Sophie.

 

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On 02/27/2010, Jane McCarthy said ...

Susan---this will be so cute and cozy! I think you should either get an open hutch or take the door of the hutch you have (and re-purpose as a work surface in your sewing room??) and have shelves installed. Paint insides of shelves a muted green and there you have it! Ditto with furniture in front (with pink cushions). I also suggest having your primary color be green, with pink and secondary--that way you can always change out the pink if you want a change. Green is a great neutral. The storage boxes are great.

Have fun with this----it will be fun to see what you decide to do!

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On 02/27/2010, Rian said ...

You could start by making some colorful cushions for the chairs, and I think that might be enough to achieve at least the cozy part.

Riley would love to go outside but it's raining buckets out there. He's holding out for no rain.

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On 02/27/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Hi! Love your current arrangement and yes, your space can be that cute! The colorful pretty boxes are a good start. I think chair cushions and a tablecloth are the next easy step. You may ultimately need a larger table, too, as that cute little table probably doesn't hold a teacup and a book at the same time. You could also keep the little table and put a wing chair beside it instead of the second chair.

As Jane suggested, if you keep the armoire there, I agree you'd need to take off the door. I LOVE corner cabinets with glass doors like are in some dining rooms. I'd be on the look-out for one of those.

Instead of painting the bookcase backs or inside the armoire, I suggest tacking beloved fabric cut to shape. Perhaps a tone on tone fabric would be best to use as a backdrop for pretty things. If you use fabric, you can change the fabrics as you choose to or seasonally.

A lamp will be needed, too. In the target photo, the lamp is on top of the corner cabinet.

Love the new ark residents. Well done!

This is fun!!

Hugs!

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On 02/27/2010, Bitonovicequilter.blogspot.com said ...

I agree on taking the door off the armoire. Also, the table is out of scale with the chairs, it needs to be bigger so you could open up a book on it and set your hot beverage of choice down.

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On 02/27/2010, Nicole said ...

The table is wrong--not to scale. If you don't want to spend much money, go to Target or Bed Bath & Beyond and pick up one of those round tables that are made of plywood--the kind you cover with a big round table cloth. Cushions or covers for the chairs would be good. And an open shelf corner unit would be better so you can display your pretties. Maybe taking the doors off the hutch would work, as others have suggested.
And, my best idea yet--how about painting the bookcases and corner unit white to have a uniform look with the chairs?

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On 02/27/2010, Alison said ...

I hope you don't mind me putting in my two penneth, I've just found your blog! I love your corner unit, it's beautiful and I don't think you should take the door off. I would move the books from the top shelves of the left hand bookcase to the bottom of the right hand one, and use the top shelves of both bookcases for your pretty stuff, plates, your Jo-Ann boxes, etc. Some pretty cushions would be good and a bigger table would be useful if you plan to sit there. If the door of the corner unit is too uniform, you could make a little fabric hanging and loop it over the top so that it doesn't damage the wood. Finally, a lamp and a couple of pretty boxes on top of the bookcases would break up the hard line up there. I'll look forward to seeing what you do with it!

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On 02/27/2010, Marilyn said ...

Just my opinion but I would leave the bookshelves the way
they are and try to find an open corner hutch to match.
To me painted furniture just doesn't seem as homey, if
thats the look you want. Whatever you decide I'm sure it
will look great.

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On 02/27/2010, KAI said ...

I'm answering your post from bottom to top because ... well ... I guess because I'm a weido! LOL! Anyway, first I LOVE your newest Noah additions! That is going to be the most charming quilt EVER! Second, we ARE sisters! Last week at Michael's I bought THEIR boxes - exact flowers - just a different BACKGROUND color! I use those kinds of boxes to mail bd gifties. The box becomes part of my gift! Now for the arrangement. I have to agree that the table does seem out of proportion to the bookshelves & armoir, and I favor the arrangement in the latest post - the open hutch! A resounding YES to painting the hutch & tying in the colors you choose to paint it to your chair cushion covers and whatever table covering you decide on. It's going to be such a charming & COZY area! Do you know Eleanor Erickson of A Bit of Pink Heaven blog? THERE'S a GREAT person to assist you. She has a magnificent eye for decor! I know NOTHING. All my taste is in my MOUTH!

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On 02/27/2010, Debra Spincic said ...

If you could elevate the middle cabinet so the top is above the top of the two bookcases, I think this would be a dynamite piece in this room. It's nice to have something closed (for practical reasons) and it's a nice relief from the openness of the bookcases.

One solution would be to have a base built to go under it. If the base could also have drawers or open shelves, that would be wonderful. With shelves, you could fold up quilts and store them there. I love the red of the cabinet too. The 3 pieces provide a nice "solid" looking backdrop for an upholstered chair and small table. Another idea would be to put the cabinet on something like a footlocker or a small trunk as a base. It could even be decorated with decoupage or fabric cutouts or stencilled for a folk art look.

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On 02/28/2010, WendyC said ...

the pic you like has wood in all the same colour, a lovely warm looking wood, this is why it looks so cosy. I think you should paint all the furniture the same colour, white or cream and add highlights using whatever colour you chose for your walls. Loose the chairs and have a comfy one instead so that you can curl up and read. Or swap the table for a bigger one, then you can sit and journal. So says the expert on everyone elses space ;) mine is awful with mismatched junk shop furniture XX

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On 02/28/2010, Susan Burton said ...

The corner idea is great. You do need to paint all of the pieces the same color. You could paint the back of the shelves a light color. The table is too small. I like the idea of a wall hanging on the closed cabinent. That way you could change it out when you tire of it.

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On 03/02/2010, Patti Koosed said ...

I would do away with both and put a nice comfortable chair there with a nice floor lamp behind it so I could sit read all those books!

Hugs
Patti
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Lucky, Lucky Me!

 

See the purse in the front of the photo? Guess who it belongs to? ME!!! I won it in a giveaway on Kris's blog. I'm so excited, I just had to show everyone.

Thank you, Kris. Your work is beautiful, and I'm going to be a proud owner of this bag.

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On 02/27/2010, Thelma said ...

Congratulations!! What a lovely bag, it just shouts spring!!

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On 02/27/2010, Carole Miller said ...

I'm so jealous!!

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On 02/27/2010, Deb Price said ...

That is adorable! And it really does look like spring! Something that I need right now-spring thoughts! Hope you are not as cold as we are...UGH! I guess I need to get moving and spring-clean and then I won't realize it's cold! Have a super weekend!
Hugs from Indiana

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On 02/27/2010, Lavender Dreamer said ...

I'm so happy for you! It will be perfect for Spring! ♥

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On 02/27/2010, KAI said ...

Now THERE'S a touch of Spring for you, Sweet Girl! And it's such a pretty one, too! Sweet of Kris to give it away, and I couldn't be happier that you won it!

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On 02/27/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

You are so lucky to win such delicious goodies so often and this purse is just too cute! Lucky you!!

Hugs!

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On 02/27/2010, Rae Ann said ...

Love the bag! Congratulations on your win.
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Books, Buddies, and Blessings

Every time I go upstairs, i come back down with a few more books and stack them in my living room. The stacks are growing.

I have found some great outlets for getting the books out of my house. My daughter Andy is taking most of the paperbacks for the co-op library at her workplace. And my sister Joanne, who has an online bookseller business, is taking the hardbacks. Our hometown library also sells used books, so whatever Joanne and Andy don't want will go to them.

The photos show only a very small sample of the books in my house. I could, in fact, open my own lending library if I wanted--which I don't.

As you probably know, book moving is almost as problematic as furniture movie. I appreciate all your comments and advice. I need all I can get. My friend Blogless Barbara pointed out that liquor store boxes are best for packing books because they're small and sturdy. I have one, but need more. Good excuse to go to the liquor store, maybe get me a small bottle of Bailey's while I'm there. If this winter is going to continue, I need fortification.

I have a wonderful friend story to share. A local friend, Marla (also a devoted blog reader) read about my sinus problem yesterday. So early yesterday afternoon, she showed up unannounced with a beautiful bouquet in a pretty container, a lovely green metal basket, and an offer to walk Sophie. Sophie likes Marla, so although she was a little confused at first, she went, thus allowing me to make one less trip out into the cold. 

I've said it before, and I'll continue to say it: my greatest blessings are my friends and family (and dog). Thank you, Marla, sweet friend. And thank all of my online buddies for your caring words, funny stories, happy thoughts, and friendship.

If you've read the comments lately on this blog, you know that sweet Kai has even offered to get on a bus and come to Alabama and help move books or do whatever needs doing. And I know that many of you would do the same. But don't buy those bus and plane tickets yet. If I keep moving at my current pace (slowly), I think I'll get it done with the help of family members and local friends. I just need to stop caring how long it's going to take.

And guess what........................

I LOVE ALL OF YOU!

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On 02/26/2010, KAI said ...

Marla gets an A+ from this former teacher! What a sweet, sweet thing to do! And Susan, if I showed up on your doorstep with my round self, your first thought would be, "Oh, mercy! Am I REALLY going to have to feed THAT?" Bwahahahaha! Seriously, tho' - you KNOW if you need me, I'm THERE! In the meantime, you have a great solution for dispersing those extra books! LOVE YOU!

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On 02/26/2010, Deb Price said ...

What lovely flowers! I'd walk Sophie for you, but it's a LONG drive to get there! I hope you are feeling better today..do you think your sinuses are giving you a problem due to you moving the books? I know that when I do heavy cleaning, like the basemant or move things around that have stayed put for a long time, i.e. books, I get all stuffy and sneezy and my eyes run. Just a thought...Just to let you know, I would come and help out if you needed me...and it has NOTHING to do with the fact that I am DESPERATE to get out of this cold weather! I would do it even in the middle of summer! Take it easy today and I hope you have a great weekend!
Hugs from the snowy place,
Deb

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On 02/26/2010, Lavender Dreamer said ...

We love you, too! I hope today is a good day and you have sunny skies overhead! Take care! ♥

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On 02/26/2010, Carla (from Alabama) said ...

That was so nice of Marla and the flowers are beautiful. I know that having family and friends (and a dog) along with prayers and guidance from God are what keeps us going in the tough times; and in the good times it makes are hearts skip a little.

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On 02/26/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

How wonderful and helpful of Marla - that's good friendship with feet on it!! The flowers are lovely and sing Spring is coming!!

About those books ... as a family of confirmed bibliophiles, I hear you! We could open a library, too. Before I read that Andy and Joanne could help disperse a lot of the books with the co-op library getting the rest, I was going to say I'd take a few of the cookbooks BUT then I remembered we have a large bookcase of just cookbooks and won't live long enough to try all of those recipes. Not to mention having my mother's recipe boxes. We need no more cookbooks, for sure.

If you haven't looked at next week's weather forecast, there's another snow storm headed for Memphis right now. It's expected to take the path that the snow storm a couple of weeks ago took. You may need to go get your boxes and Baileys' soon so you're not snowed in without them. In my experience, the liquor boxes are stacked at the front of back of the store for the convenience of movers. Just ask!

Love you too, girlfriend! Hugs!

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On 02/26/2010, Wendy said ...

Volunteers at our (hospice benefit) thrift store go onsite to homes and help pack up donations with directions from donee. That might help you move those books. Shall I send a volunteer? Take it easy....think "baby steps, baby steps" so you don't overdo.

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On 02/26/2010, ashleigh said ...

You know if Thomas and I get to move home in the next few month ((really big hopes maybe)). I will be right next door and probably still without a job :) Miss you and Sophie TOO!

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On 02/26/2010, Debra Spincic said ...

It's amazing how quickly our hobbies overtake us! But they are so fun and keep us such good company.

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On 02/26/2010, Lynne in Hawaii said ...

Try local book stores for boxes. Many times their boxes are fairly consistent to size and very sturdy because books came in them! That is what we used when we moved and they were very convenient.
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S.A.D.

I've decided that the people in Canada deserve their excellent and uncomplicated health system. It's the least they can expect for having to put up with those long awful winters up there. I've always lived in the South where the winters are traditionally short and mild--until this year. 

I can't remember ever looking forward to the end of winter like I do this year. I've never happily anticipated Alabama's hot and humid summers. But I think the Winter of 2009-10 has cured me of my aversion to summer. 

I want warmth, green, flowers, real produce grown on an Alabama farm. I'd like to go outside without first bundling every inch of my body and having to walk around looking like Randy in "A Christmas Story." I want to drink iced tea sitting on the balcony at the beach.

As you can probably infer, I'm having a down day today. I have something like a sinus infection--pain in my face and ear--and I don't even want to think about lifting or moving anything today.

Yesterday, I worked on my office bookcases for a couple of hours. There are lots of books that have been on those shelves for years, never removed, never read. They're on their way out. But while one book by itself, no matter how large, isn't unmanageable, it's amazing how heavy humpty-zillion books can be together. And that weight is cumulative. Even though I never lift more than two or three books at a time, each group gets heavier and heavier. Now all the books from one book case are lying in the floor, waiting for me to box them and get them downstairs. The other bookscase is like, "When are you going to empty me?"

Well, not today, I don't think. I'm just too blah today to face that stupid office one more time. I've been working on it for weeks and weeks now. And although I can see progress, I can't quite imagine the end.  

Nicole wrote about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) on her blog recently. I think that's part of my problem these days. Maybe the spring breezes (and we will have spring again, I'm sure of that--someday) will blow away part of what ails me and give me enthusiasm for this house project I find myself in the midst of. I sure hope so. Because right now, I'm contemplating the potential joys of an efficiency apartment. 

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 02/25/2010, Lisa said ...

I'm sorry your feeling bad, I hope you feel better real soon!!

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On 02/25/2010, Joanne said ...

So sorry you feel bad. Let the office go for a while and work on something else when you feel like it.

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On 02/25/2010, Pat said ...

It has been a long, hard winter. Against any judgement at all, yesterday I bought used books at the library all the while thinking where on earth will I put them? But I, too, need to discard some of mine. Like one author's complete set of works, have read, listened to on book tapes, probably never read again... Planning to make a contribution back to that same library used books room. Do hope you feel better soon. We have this day, just a day at a time. It will be spring soon! I'm so looking forward to it, too!

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On 02/25/2010, Ruth Landon said ...

Spring IS coming Susan. We have had a pretty easy winter this year in my part of Canada. We've had more snow this week than the rest of the Winter put together. We will have to wait until Late April or early May to see the tulips flowering.
Hope you feel better soon., those books will still be there waiting for you. You wouldn't have room to sw in an effeciency apartment!
Cheers Ruth

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On 02/25/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Amen sistah! I hear you on all accounts and couldn't agree more. Immediate hugs!

The office project will be more enjoyable when you can open the window while you work and listen to either music or a book on tape/DVD.

Please enlist help from family or a neighbor in getting the book boxes down stairs and remember - the best book boxes are liquor boxes because the boxes are small and very sturdy. As you've noted, books are heavy. Even Baptists go to liquor stores for these boxes but, of course, they hope they won't be seen!!

Do you have a CD of jazzy music that you love? I recommend putting that music on, taking a sinus medicine, putting your face and nose over a pot of steaming water for about 15 min., and having some soup. You'll feel better soon.

More hugs!

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On 02/25/2010, Ruth Landon said ...

sw should read sew
Ruth

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On 02/25/2010, Nicoel said ...

New jammies. That is the answer.
I meant to thank you for the adorable hand made bookmark you sent in the mail! I am using it right this second. I just finished a book called A Reliable Wife that I think you might like. I will stick it in the mail to you today!

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On 02/25/2010, Beverly said ...

Hang in there. I just know spring will be here soon. It snowed here this morning.

You are making awesome progress.

I am just back to work this week. It had been so long since I felt like visiting, and I really missed everyone.

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On 02/25/2010, KAI said ...

Slow & steady, says the ultimate Tortoise, Kai! It WILL get accomplished, Susan! You KNOW I understand your physical ups & downs! But you are way too hard on your sweet lil' self! Try to think of it this way: Instead of seeing all that has to be done as a daunting task, look at it as a chance to EVENTUALLY have everything exactly as YOU want it. CELEBRATE yourself each time you WORK on it - not each time you FINISH something - by quilting or reading or watching a movie or just cuddling with Sophie! Then go back and ADMIRE what you DID do! Tell yourself, "LOOK at this nice stack of books! Doesn't that empty shelf look better now?" I hope you will accept help, I wish you would say the word & I'd hop on a Trailways and help you myself! Truth is, I'm currently psyching myself for the onslaught of Spring - for ME, the most DREADED time of the year. So I'll try to send it to YOU there in Alabama & I will try and convince my daughter in Wisconsin to send ME some more WINTER! It will all work out!

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On 02/25/2010, Debra Spincic said ...

If you move those books to the basement, you will have to move them back upstairs when you clean the basement. Can you make a decision about them now that would avoid moving them to the basement? Like moving them out of the house?

I hear ya on the SAD. This has been a rough winter here too-- I can usually look out my window and see some green; but, not this year. Even the palm trees are brown and drooping. I hope we have not lost them; otherwise, it is going to be an expensive spring of new landscaping. That will not make me a happy camper. So, chin up! You are not alone.

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On 02/25/2010, Carol said ...

Oh Susan feel better!

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On 02/25/2010, Joan said ...

Take care Susan when you start moving those books.Better still get others to help you.
This has been a long winter here in England. Coldest for over 30 years but it isn't just the cold , it's the dull skies. Come back sun please.

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On 02/25/2010, Barb P. said ...

I've been reading your blog since I started with Thelma's cupcakesndaisies just a couple of weeks ago. I'm completely new to this blogging thing, but love it! I've been following your happenings with caring thoughts and prayers for you. I recommend a day trip with a couple of girlfriends. I went today with 2 girlfriends to a quilt shop, a nice gift shop and on to lunch. What a spirit lifter a friend & quilt fabric shopping can be. Felt much better after our day of laughs and shopping. We've had an unusually cold and snowy winter here in Illinois also.
The books can wait, but if it were me, I'd move them out of the house and never look back for them. You'll be a happier person with less clutter. That's what I'm currently doing to my house. Declutter! Good luck in your search for spring. I think we all need a little sunshine in our lives especially this time of the year.

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On 02/25/2010, Jean K. said ...

Hi Susan I too suffer from SAD and of course I just have to be from Canada. For a lot of Canadians SAD is just part of the winter game. I am fortunate to live on the prairies, so we do get sun and now that we have sun from about 8 in the morning till about 6 at night, it feels like heaven even if it is still cold and we won't see bare grass let alone flowers for a very long time. I have learned to break every task down into small segments, so your segment this time is that you got the books out of the case. The next segment might be to look for someone to help, then the next segment would be to box them up and so on. It took me quite a while to learn this trick, but it works on almost everything from quilting to washing windows. I also put all the segments into a list and that way when they are all done and checked off, then I know that one larger task is done and I can look back and be amazed at how much I got done. Love your writing, it is so down to earth. You have been through a rough year so please give yourself some slack! Hugs from Winnipeg

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On 02/25/2010, Donna said ...

Susan,
I have been so depressed too! I know we have had a long cold winter here in AL but I know losing our loved ones has played a HUGE roll in our lives. I think about you everyday and I hope you begin to feel better soon. I hope Spring arrives here soon. I know how you feel :(
Blessings,
Donna

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On 02/26/2010, Sandy said ...

I guess we all suffer from SAD. I never looked at it like that, I was that way when we lived in Alaska but never thought about SAD living down south. Maybe that's the reason I'm repainting the rooms of our house. It's taken three weeks to paint a small dining room (part of the time we had a virus)but last night I was elated just adding my "treasures" to the new shelves. But like you, I have had to learn to pace myself (that comes with age) and when it gets finished, it will be finished. It's taken alot of years to learn not to be so hard on myself,, something we all need to learn. Good luck with your projects, take it slow and it WILL get done in the end. Hope you feel better soon...Spring is coming, sooner or later......LOL
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Alabama Author Visits Leeds

 

The above photo shows my sister Ramey (left) and author Irene Latham (right) holding a quilt that our friend Mary U. made and donated to help raise funds to build a new library in our hometown. We have quite outgrown our current one.

Ramey and Mary both work at the library, Mary as a volunteer. Irene visited the library on Saturday for a presentation and book signing. She read passages from her new book for young people entitled  Leaving Gee's Bend, set in 1932 Gee's Bend, Alabama. You quilters will surely recognize the name Gee's Bend as the home of some outstanding quilters who have gained fame in recent years.

I hear it was a delightful program. I myself forgot to attend. 

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 02/24/2010, KAI said ...

So THAT'S Ramey! She LOOKS like you! (Now why did I sound so surprised - duh - considering she's your sister? LOL!) How cool that she got to meet Ms. Latham!

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On 02/24/2010, KAI said ...

One MORE DUH from your goofy friend over here! I intendned to tell you I JUST finished reading Leaving Gee's Bend a week ago! I passed it on to my housemate's former co-worker who has cancer and is coping by quilting! It's really a VERY good book!

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On 02/24/2010, Jan said ...

So nice to see your Sister and what a darling picture of you below :) You still look sooooo much like that sweet little girl :)

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On 02/24/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Nice to meet Ramey and the quilt is wonderful! It's so very good of Mary U. to make such a great quilt for such a worthy cause. Applause!

I have seen some of the Gee's Bend quilts and they are amazing art.

Sorry you forgot to attend... oops!

Hugs!

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On 02/24/2010, Deborah said ...

I love the Gee's Bend quilts because they remind me of the old quilts my mother used to make. Not that they look like them so much but the idea of using up what you had. Good luck with the library!
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Oh, Suzie Q!

I think this was about 4th grade. The ears, nose, and lips never got any smaller. 

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 02/23/2010, Donna said ...

So sweet Susan! You are adorable!

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On 02/23/2010, Ruth Landon said ...

A lovely photo, you really haven't changed much.
Ruth

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On 02/23/2010, Carla (from Alabama) said ...

That is cute. You still look pretty much the same.

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On 02/23/2010, KAI said ...

I have to agree! I think I would have known that was you anywhere! Same cute smile! LOVE YOU, you sweety!

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On 02/23/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Yep, too cute! The medical fact is that noses and ears keep growing... yikes!

Hugs!

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On 02/23/2010, Rae Ann said ...

I would know it was you because you haven't changed that much. Lovely then...lovely now~

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On 02/23/2010, Pat said ...

Cute picture. Same smile and expression as in the pic to the right! You look just the same! A little like Hayley Mills...

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On 02/23/2010, Rian said ...

I think 4th grade has got to be the pinnacle year of Dorkdom. I no longer have my school photos, but I sure remember how dorky I looked. I would recognize you in a lineup anywhere.

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On 02/23/2010, Nicole said ...

If I'd 'a met you then, I would have wanted to be your friend.

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On 02/23/2010, Dandelion Quilts said ...

What a cute picture, Susan!

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On 02/23/2010, Mandy said ...

So cute! You still look the same! I'm like that too lol... I just haven't got the pics in my possession!!!

P.S. thanks for visiting my humble little blog!

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On 02/23/2010, Debra Spincic said ...

How Fun (notice I didn't say funny?)!

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On 02/24/2010, Pokey said ...

Aren't you a cutie!

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On 02/24/2010, Joan said ...

Great photo Susan

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On 02/24/2010, Carole Miller said ...

Susie- I don't have a blog- but someday hope to have one if you help me! I can't sign on to thriller club. Love the photo!

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On 02/24/2010, Carole Miller said ...

I'm workinf like 2 days a week now. I'd love some altered book help. I have so many things I want to do- quilt, paint, altered books and jewelry1 I think I'm overwhelmed.

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On 02/24/2010, Teresa/MarieSews said ...

Yep, would have recognized you immediately. Great picture!

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On 03/22/2010, home security camera said ...

What a cute and innocent picture...
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Almost a Boatload

 

Horrible photo, this. But it makes me feel so good to see almost all my Noah squares all stitched up. Only six more to go!

Had a great day yesterday, in spite of a particularly evil fibro flare I'm experiencing. It was my daughter Andy's birthday. She came over after I returned from church. We had chicken pot pie and watched the movie "Law Abiding Citizen." The movie was very bloody and hard to watch in parts, but an excellent movie nonetheless. Jamie Foxx had the leading roll, and who doesn't love Jamie?

We had a wonderful promise of spring weekend. The sun was out, the temps were in the 60s, and kids were running all over the neighborhood like hamsters set free from their cages. But today, it's cloudy and rainy. Still not too cold though.

I just downloaded this book, Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane, to my Kindle. I want to see the movie, but I decided to read the book first. The only other of Lehane's books I have read is Mystic River, which was and excellent book made into an even more excellent movie starring Sean Penn. I hope this book and movie prove to be just as excellent. I downloaded it to Kindle so I could read it fast and get to the movie right away.

 

It has been a bit of a while since I've seen a Disney trailer that made me want to see the movie. But I can't wait to see "Alice." Did you ever see such a wonderful Mad Hatter as Johnny Depp makes? I want me some of that hair!

Okay, now I go to read and/or sew. There! I've accidentally made a poem.

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 02/22/2010, Judy Cloe said ...

My husband read the book and saw the movie. I did neither as I am not fond of scary themes. He thought the movie followed the book very well and was good.

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On 02/22/2010, Lisa said ...

Cute blocks! I can't wait to see Alice. Gotta love anything Johnny Depp is in:-)

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On 02/22/2010, Nicole said ...

Shutter Island is a great read. It is a wonderful idea to read the book before seeing the movie. I would love to hear what you think of the comparison of the two versions once you experience them both.

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On 02/22/2010, CarlaH said ...

I read the book (after reading about the movie) and am looking forward to the movie - I'm really wondering on how the movie will deal with the ending.
Needless to say all of your finished blocks are perfect - now comes the fun part of putting them together.

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On 02/22/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Applause, applause! Your many Noah blocks are wonderful! Aren't you pleased with your decision to use many colors for your embroidery?

Rain here, too, and much chillier than yesterday. Still working in my small sewing room so the rain is fine with me. Perhaps the last of the snow will go?

A belated Happy Birthday to Andy!

Hugs!

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On 02/22/2010, KAI said ...

The children are going to ADORE that Noah quilt, Susan! I adore it, too! As for Alice, yum to Johnny Depp no matter WHAT he's doing! There's just something amazing about a guy who is so H-O-T in reality yet who has absolutely ZERO qualms about playing parts that detract from his good looks. Gotta love him! And I'm so glad you & Andy celebrated together! HAPPY (belated) BIRTHDAY, Andy!

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On 02/22/2010, Jan said ...

Hi Susan :) Your embroidered blocks are all adorable and OMG on that gorgeous embroidery project your friend did below! What an amazing gift of love and such a beautiful poem! I know you will cherish it all the day's of your life :) Happy Birthday to Andy!

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On 02/22/2010, Jan said ...

Oh shoot, I think I lost my comment! If I show up twice, pls forgive me.

Your embroidered blocks are adorable and OMG on that absolutely gorgeous embroidery gift from your friend below! That is absolutely fabulous and such a beautiful poem! I'm sure you will cherish it all the days of your life. Happy Birthday to Andy!

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On 02/22/2010, Lavender Dreamer said ...

I love your Noah quilt squares. It's going to make a beautiful quilt! Let us know how you like the book! Sounds like one I would like! ♥
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Friends In Deed

What a surprise I had yesterday evening! My neighbors and friends the Warnocks phoned to ask if they could come down. They had something for me, they said. I couldn't imagine what it could be, and I certainly never dreamed it would be something so sprecial.

When they arrived, Maria at first gave me some fabric goodies that she got last week at the Martha Pullen sewing retreat she attended. I was, of course, thrilled. But then she unrolled the piece of linen she was holding, and I forgot all about the fabrics. Maria had embroidered for me the poem that another neighbor, Danny, wrote about Vann the night after he died. I was so touched, I couldn't help crying. Danny had not given the poem a title, so Maria's husband Gene titled it "Vann -- The Man," something he often called Vann. (Vann often called Gene, a pilot, "Gene, Gene, the flying machine.")

Gene had brought his handyman kit so that he could hang the poem for me. It's now hanging in my dining room.

If you don't have good friends like I have, get up right now and begin to make some. There is nothing in this world more valuable, no blessing that will give you more comfort in times of sorrow and joy, nothing you need more. 

Thank you Danny, Maria, and Gene for being my friends and for loving my Vann. And thank you, all my friends, for being my comfort.

 

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 02/21/2010, Vicki W said ...

What an amazing gift....and beautiful friends!

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On 02/21/2010, Fitzy said ...

It's more than the physical gift, although it is indeed very lovely. The part that touches me is that they all planned and schemed, unselfishly taking time out of their day-thinking, arranging, sharing to show you how much they honor and love you and Vann. That's some warm fuzzies that will last forever.

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On 02/21/2010, Ruth Landon said ...

Susan, what a wonderful surprise and a great thing your friends and neighbors did for you and for Vann's memory.
Ruth

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On 02/21/2010, sharon said ...

What a beautiful gift Susan. That is sooooo nice. You do have some wonderful friends and your very lucky. So many times we think we have "friends" but we see later on that we really don't at all. So those true friends are to be treasured.

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On 02/21/2010, Melinda said ...

What a wonderful gift to you and a tribute to Vann. You have great friends and are blessed that they care so much for you.

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On 02/21/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Oh Susan, what a treasure to have in your home, a beautiful link to your beloved, and treasured friends to hold in your heart forever.

Hugs!

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On 02/21/2010, Wilma said ...

What a beautiful tribute to Vann's memory and your and Vann's friendship. Bless you and your friends for being so thoughtful.

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On 02/21/2010, Donna said ...

Beautiful tribute to Vann! What precious friends you have! I don't where I would be right now without my family and friends being there for me in the past few months.
Thanks for sharing this with us. Great friends indeed!
Blessings,
Donna

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On 02/21/2010, Laurie said ...

That is the sweetest gift I have ever seen. Yes, you are blessed indeed.

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On 02/21/2010, Merrie Miller said ...

What a tribute to you both; you must really be remarkable sweet folks to have created such love in the hearts of your friends. We are sending you lots of hugs today!

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On 02/21/2010, KAI said ...

I had to go back & comment on your previous post first because I was sniffling like a big baby after reading this one. What a beautiful thing to do, and what dear & loving friends they are! You DESERVE friends like them! LOVE YOU!!!

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On 02/21/2010, Zannah said ...

What a lovely gift! It's these small gestures that remind us of the need for good friends in life.

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On 02/21/2010, Debra Spincic said ...

How wonderful and how much more wonderful that your friend arrived with a hammer and nails and installed the rod!

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On 02/21/2010, Dandelion Quilts said ...

How special indeed...and very beautifully done.

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On 02/22/2010, Patti Koosed said ...

What lovely friends to do this for you.
I am smiling :)

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On 02/22/2010, Pokey said ...

How great a gift is that? How sweet your friends are, hold them close! What a treasure.

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On 02/23/2010, Gayle said ...

What a beautiful gift.
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Friday Night Progress

 

So after yesterday afternoon's book club meeting, hair cutting, and grocery shopping, I returned home to a delighted Sophie. You would have thought I had been gone for a month. I immediately took her for a little walk, then came in and played with her for a while.

After we ate dinner (spicy Italian roll-ups and a banana for me), checked out the Facebook and e-mails, and went for another walk--it was PAJAMA TIME!

I began the Friday Night Sew-in with a perusal of the latest copy of Fons and Porter's Love of Quilting magazine. I was a little disappointed with that. Not one design in it this time that I was dying to make. Of course, that doesn't mean it's not a good magazine. It is. Very good.

For a couple of reasons, I decided to work on the Noah Blocks instead of doing any machine sewing. Because of the utter chaos in the sewing room, due to the reorganization up there, I would have needed to bring my Featherweight and all my stuff downstairs to the dining room. If I had done that, I would have been sure to make a mess of my dining room, and I just didn't want to do that. Also, I need to get this Noah Quilt finished asap so it can have itself hung in my church's nursery. The sooner it's done, the sooner the kids can enjoy it.

I'm not into the Olympics, so I decided a nice movie would be good while I stitched. Nothing on regular tv so I scanned the pay-per-view channels and found one, "Whiteout," that looked interesting. It wasn't.

During that less-than-mediocre movie and a couple of episodes of "Criminal Minds" reruns, I finished the green bear block and stitched the two kangaroos. I'm now more than halfway finished with the embroidery part of the quilt--12 out of 20 blocks. Eight more to go.

I was in bed with my book by midnight and fast asleep shortly thereafter. It was a good night. Thanks, Heidi, for hosting the sew-in. For everyone else, if you'd like to see what other sew-inners accomplished last night, hop over to Heidi's blog and go blog-hopping.

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 02/20/2010, Dandelion Quilts said ...

Good job working on your blocks. :) My sewing room needs a serious re-ordering, too. I know how that can get. Sometimes it is more of a job than one day can take! I like the colors of your blocks, Susan. Keep up the good work.

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On 02/20/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Good morning! I had wondered how late you stitched last night and if you were sleeping in or as late as Sophie would let you sleep!

Love the completed 2nd bear and the pair of kangaroos! Well done! This quilt will be such a cheery addition to the church nursery!

Happy Saturday!

Hugs!

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On 02/20/2010, Diana said ...

Your blocks are turning out so cute!

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On 02/20/2010, kayellen said ...

really cute blocks Susan:)
Hope you are having good weekend with miss sophie:)

I am home sick so gracie is loving all our snuggle time.

Kay

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On 02/20/2010, Debbie said ...

The block are looking so cute! Can't wait until it's finished!

I love Criminal Minds, but I've started DVRing it and watching it in the daylight! Being alone and so far out here in the country...well, let's just say my imagination runs away with me!

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On 02/20/2010, valerie said ...

Oh I love your embroidery. I am just learning it and I am so excited. Sounds like you had a great night. I will be posting mine tomorrow hopefully. I have had 4 little munchkins here tonight! 3 are actually spending the night! Whew!

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On 02/21/2010, Jandi In Stitches said ...

I love the kangaroos!

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On 02/21/2010, Bobbi L said ...

so many people are stitching, now i have the itch to stitch :)
i love your animals! do you freehand those or use a pattern? i need something to do while on the go with kids. sewing machines arent portable HAHA

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On 02/21/2010, KAI said ...

LOVE your bears and 'roos! And I'm glad you got into the sewing event! HOW FUN IS THAT!!! About the tv/movie issue: I tend to lose myself in favorite dvds which, I confess, are a complete embarrassment. Why? I could watch every episode of the old show, THIRD WATCH - all six SEASONS - back-to-back then turn right around & do it again! How I DO love that show! Of course, then I get very little creating done because I get so absorbed in the show. Sigh.

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On 02/22/2010, Denise in PA said ...

I just read my LoQ last night - I agree - not one thing in there that did anything for me. And I love that magazine, so I was very disappointed. Your blocks are adorable!
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Ideas and Inspiration

I accomplished a lot in the study/office yesterday afternoon. I'm ready to start thinking about how I'm going to decorate it. I want to be sure I have everything planned out just how I want it. 

Of course, the closer the study gets to being organized, the bigger mess I make of the guest room and my sewing room. But I have faith that everything will work out in the end--the end of the year, that is. You'll recall that's the deadline I've given myself, December 31, 2010.

Below are some ideas, most of which I found at houzz.com., a few on other sites. There's a different reason for why I like each one of these shots. Sometimes it's the overall atmosphere or color or furniture placement. Sometimes, it's just a small idea that I see in the photo. I'll explain.

The window placement in this room is like the one in my office. And I love the informality.

I have two wonderful wooden bookshelves that Vann made for me. I don't have a corner hutch, but that's what thrift stores are for.

I like the stack of books, and the idea of putting a skirt on my folding table. I also like the bulletin board over the table. I hate that chair. I'm just an animal print person.

I don't know what drew me to this photo. maybe the cat. Those colors just don't seem compatible to me. 

 
Sweet!. 
 

I have an antique wire wastebasket and a ribbon memory board.

I have exactly the same little yellow pitcher. And several animals pitchers, but not that one. 

Just pretty.

Daisy Cottage (I think.)

My kind of decor (from Cozy Little House, I think.)   

Love the colors in this office.

 
I like to color, the bed spring memo board, and the vintage kitchen tools for pencil holders.

This room is light challenged like mine--only one small window. I love the chair. I have one similar to it. Mine is yellow with blue bugs.

Very pretty, but I couldn't live long with that wallpaper.
 

   Just anything but this!

OR THIS!  
 
  
As for wall color, I'm leaning toward sage green...

With muted pink accents and white trim.   
 

That's all I got for now. But at least I think I've definitely decided on the sage/pink color scheme. If you have any comments, I'd love to hear them. Or photos or ideas. Home decor is not my strong suit. I know what I like when I see it, but as far as starting with a blank room and no ideas, I'm at a loss.

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 02/18/2010, Allyson in Alaska said ...

Looks like you have plenty of inspiration to get you started. Can't wait to see what you decide on.

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On 02/18/2010, Melinda said ...

I love every photo you posted. There are a lot of good ideas there. Just have fun and take your time. I am sure you will have a great room.

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On 02/18/2010, Donna said ...

I love all your ideas you have posted! I think green and pink together with white trim would be so pretty.
Blessings,
Donna

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On 02/18/2010, Pat said ...

Great inspiration! I'd like to combine my small den and spare bedroom, but the bed has to stay. Love the sage/pink color scheme. I enjoy "Where Women Create" magazine. Lots of inspiration, but most are too professional (and a lot are too cluttered, which is what I'm working on, too! Decluttering, not cluttering, though sometimes... I wonder...)

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On 02/18/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

The photo ideas are wonderful and I love the color palate you're considering. Will your wing chair fit in or will you add it's shade of blue to your color scheme?

What would you think of having the two bookcases Vann made for you on adjacent walls (as in the 2nd picture) with your wing chair in the corner between them and beside a small side table and lamp? When you find the right corner cabinet, your chair, table, and lamp could move into the room a bit.

I like the rooms that have the desk near or in front of a window.

What fun to imagine the possibilities!

Hugs!

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On 02/18/2010, Tina said ...

How fun. Love a lot of the ideas. If you want to make an original cork board, save wine corks or ask friends to save them. You can also ask bartenders at restaurants to save them if you frequent a restaurant. Use them to make your corkboard. Just another idea.

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On 02/18/2010, Debra Spincic said ...

While the kitchen utensils pencil holder is cute, I can just see me scraping my knuckles on the cheese grater every time I reached for a pencil.

Some of these ideas are really adorable and all of them have a wonderfully feminine feel to them!

That huge yellow frame made into a bulletin board is very clever! Good use for an old frame.

You will have to take some In Progree pics so we can see what you are doing along the way.

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On 02/18/2010, Kelly@CharmingChatter said ...

What wonderful pictures for ideas! You're doing a great job with your organization goals - can't wait to see your room when you get it all finished!!

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On 02/19/2010, Zannah said ...

I do like the sage green idea, especially with pink and white trim - feminine without being too 'girly'. i look forward to seeing how you get on!

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On 02/19/2010, Deb Price said ...

I love that first photo...wish I had room like that! I would love to have all that desk area...could use it for sewing or for writing...ah, dreams! The sage color is so pretty...it is a relaxing color..I go to Lowe's and Home depot and get color swatches by the truck load! I love the colors that Lowe's have-they are Seashore colors...very calming and I like the fact that on the swatch are the colors that contrast/match..very helpful...I am starting to make the little room off of the living room into an office...what a chore! Have lived SO LONG with way to many people in this tiny house and now am going to be able to make this house FINALLY come together and look nice! Life...what an adventure! Keep taking pics and let us see the progress...remember, take it slowly! Hope you get some sewing done tonight...one day I will have a blog and be able to join in all this fun stuff!
Hugs from a thawing Indiana

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On 02/19/2010, KAI said ...

OOOOOOH! I LOVE that 2nd photo 'cause (to me) it's so bright and airy! Even tho' I ADORE my craft room, the paneling makes it seem a lot darker than it is. I'm going to see if I can talk my landlady into letting us paint it! I've never asked her, but she's a doll so I bet she will! The sage green & pink will be beautiful & elegant in yours! And Sophie says, "A KITTY? Oh, noooooo thank you!" LOL!

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On 02/19/2010, Wendy said ...

I started scanning the photos before I read your comments, and I thought "wow, doesn't Susan have the prettiest, neatest, brightest studio(s) ever...how MANY rooms does she have?????" LOL. Have fun re-docorating. I won't be showing any of my work space; it's too bizarre for sensitive folks.

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On 02/21/2010, Gail Sciortino said ...

Hi,
I've been re arranging my sewing room this month. Some pics are on my blog...
http://gaelt.blogspot.com
Hope that works, I'm not a great blogger!

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On 02/21/2010, Laurie said ...

You found some great photos! I wish I could keep my office organized. Instead, it becomes a storage room and I do my crafting in the dining room.

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On 02/23/2010, Daisy Cottage said ...

Good Morning Susan,

Don't sell yourself short - you are one talented girl and whatever you create will be beautiful like you. Pick your favorite colors maybe and simply "go for it".

I hope my email went through to you with the info about Jack's hearts. Yahoo has been misbehaving lately.

And I hope YOU are doing well. You remain in my heart and prayers always.


Love,
Kim

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On 02/23/2010, Nicole said ...

There are some wonderful ideas there! I think I am drawn to the little corner reading nook with the corner hutch. With your love of books, it seems like it would suit you.
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