Townhouse Trials

I've hit it

2010-06-08T20:08:00.000-06:00

See this wall

I've hit it and hit it hard.

I've had other things on my mind lately and have been sick but I really need to back on the bloggin' train.

Mikey and I are having a small garage sale this weekend, that's if it does rain (which it has been doing EVERY weekend!)

My job this week is to find a job that needs to be done and finish it and post on the weekend, now I just have to figure out what I wanna do.

Hope everyone is having a great week so far!

Trials of a door

2010-06-05T19:10:00.000-06:00

Here's my door, I got it from a lady that renovated her 1904 home. This door was on a small shed original to the building. It's been beaten by the elements which gives the door even more character. I just gave it a light coat of watered down paint.

The door was originally light blue, but I wanted it white

This is where the door hangs now

And here's a pic of Magnum enjoying the outside

Todays Treasures

2010-05-29T17:37:00.005-06:00

The day started out bright and early at Homesense. We were one of those dorks parked outside waiting for the place to open, but luckily we weren't the only ones.

I'm on the search for the perfect pillows for the couch,

I did find 1 I liked but they didn't have another one :(

Who does need a giant green gnome candle!

Ohhh shiny!

So soft! This rug was also the biggest rug I've ever seen.

After Homesense we went and saw Shrek 3 then on the way home made a lil detour at The Brick.

Never make eye contact with the sales people, they are hardcore!

We walked right to the back to the warehouse clearance section, it's the only place to go.

This lil server caught my eye and ended up buying it.

It was originally $799 and guess the price we paid for it?

$149!!!!

Yep, you read that right. There's not even anything wrong with it!

It's solid wood, stay tunned to see how this lil beauty ends up in our bathroom!

It's aged ever so slighty.

We were just about to pay when I wondered away from Mike and I saw this table out the corner of my eye.

No chairs, but that didn't stop me.

This piece is solid walnut.

And you won't believe the price

We even bought Magnum home a lil toy.

Also picked up these little birds for $4.00

The weather may be crappy but at least I found some deals.

Have a good weekend everyone!

Linking up to

Chic on a Shoestring Decorating, Funky Junk Interiors, Finding Fabulous, Shabby Nest

Spring eh?!

2010-05-27T20:28:00.003-06:00

So it's May 27 and there's a snow fall warning. Seriously. It's just not fair.

There is no point to this post other than to whine.

Here's a few pics

Keys Please

2010-05-27T20:17:00.002-06:00

Here's a super cheap project and anyone can do. The frames were from a garage sale for a whopping $0.50 for both, the background paper was free (work in a print shop) and the keys are actually scrapbooking 3D stickers for $3.00.

TAADAA!!!

Linked up to

Tales from Bloggeritaville, Shabby Chic Cottage,

My long weekend project

2010-05-25T20:23:00.003-06:00

So finally I can share the pictures of Mikey and I's long weekend project. We did something a lil different, instead of working on our place we decided to do a lil makeover at my work.

So we got to my work at bright and early Saturday morning and went to work. You don't realize how much prep work there is, especially in a business, we had a LOT of stuff on the walls and had to cover all the finished customer jobs.

It might be hard to see, but the old shop had a lovely shade of beige (and in a certain light looked almost like a beautiful shade of dusty rose, sorry Kim!), there was no shortage of oak, and there was no hiding the ugly but functional cables.

Here's a few before pics (sorry, it was the end of a busy day, lil messy)

So we decided to paint it a soft grey and paint out all the oak white.

Here's some progress and after pics, enjoy!!

Counter shelves were covered, painted white

We still need to put stuff up on the walls, but you get the idea

And this is what my pants looks liked at the end of the weekend (don't mind the mismatching socks!)

So a lil background on the shop, it's called Crowfoot Sure Print ( NW Calgary, AB), it's a small

print and copy center that does everything from graphic design, business cards, flyers to helping out people that are not sure what they want.

My boss (who is awsome btw and had no idea we were doing this) has owned the shop for 16 years, and I have had the chance to work to work with some great, talented people the last 4 years being there.

Linked up to

A Soft Place to Land, Always Nesting

Sorry!

2010-05-20T19:33:00.000-06:00

Sorry to everyone out there, I haven't been a good blogger this week. It's just been one of those kinda weeks. I did get out of doing jury duty thought, which I am very happy about.

Mikey and I will be tackling a good size project over the long weekend but I can't say anymore than that or I will ruin the surprise.

I will leave you with a few pics from my ever growing inspiration file, enjoy!

If you know whos pic these are let me know

Chalk paint!

2010-05-16T20:42:00.004-06:00

Remember this lil guy?

Well I broke the mirror. Yep, 7 years bad luck now.

So what to do with this cute lil frame?

It's a mini chalk board!!

Onto the next chalk board project

Here's the before

And here's the after

I like the black chalk board a lot better than the green, now I just need to get some chalk.

Linked to

Happy to Design, Between Naps on the Porch, Southern Hospitality

Fireplace done!

2010-05-16T20:14:00.001-06:00

Well, almost done, the painting still needs to be finished, but to be honest I hate painting and I'm not very good at it. I was just trying it out to see if I like the color. Luckily, my dad is a pro painter so once all the renos are done he'll come over and go to town on our place. I am so looking forward to that stage!!

I left the trim on the mantle shelves white and painted the back of the shelves with a super light beigey color. It helps the white accessories pop a lil more. We also plan on painting the rest of the main floor a lighter color, here was a bit of a test. Not sure if it's too light.

Today we also got a wall mount for the tv. It really helps to open the space.

Holy wires & dust bunnies Batman!

Here's the after

Box of Cuban cigars (yes there's still some in there)

Lazy Saturday

2010-05-15T20:56:00.003-06:00

We had great plans but ditched them all to relax at the movies. With Mike in school right some projects are put on the back burner until July when a steady paycheck starts coming in again. Til then, we will keep going on some smaller projects.

The day wasn't a total bust, check out what I found today.

Got 2 of these

Lil dirty, but nothing that a round in the dishwasher won't fix

I've been searching for one on these.

When Mikey pointed it out I got all giddy!

I don't even want to paint it, the teak coloring is beautiful

Awhile ago I was inspired by House of Hepworths (click here for the page) and her find.

Well I found one of my own. Lil dusty still and not sure where I will put it yet, but I heart it!

Oh and I should mention, Mike got a tent for $5

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!!

Check out some other talented bloggers at

Funky Junk Interiors, Chic on a Shoestring, Finding Fabulous,

And the winner is...

2010-05-15T19:35:00.000-06:00

Thanks everyone that commented on my first giveaway.

I picked the winner the ol' fashioned way.

And the winner is...

Congrats Mel!!!!

Mel also has her own blog, check it out HERE

Check your email!

Would you sleep here?

2010-05-12T17:25:00.000-06:00

Would sleep on this bed, in this room?

Finally, a nice day!

2010-05-11T20:56:00.007-06:00

Finally, it was a nice sunny day and you know what that means, it's paintin' time!

Mike made dinner while I went to town on a few projects.

I think I even gave myself a blister on my finger!

Remember this cake stand?

It was nice, but just wasn't I wanted

Well here it is now, I'm not sure what to put on it now

I'm really liking the way it turned out. I think I might put some twine around the bottom

to soften the look a bit.

Check out these link parties for more great ideas and amazing transformations

Between Naps on the Porch, My Frugal Family, Reinvented, Costal Charm, A Soft Place to Land, Domestically Speaking, Someday Crafts, Beyond the Picket Fence, Somewhat Simple

I have a give away!

2010-05-11T10:00:00.001-06:00

I know, I don't have tonnes of followers, hundreds of posts and thousands of hits but I still wanna say 'Thank You' to all that have stopped by and to all the fellow bloggers that have inspired me so much!

So without further adieu here is the give away

Beachy Long Necklace

Cute lil Keychain

(Sorry for the not so great photos, I'm a really bad photographer!)

Contest closed, thanks everyone!

Good luck!

Tracy

townhousetrials@gmail.com

Slow but steady

2010-05-10T20:28:00.005-06:00

Progress on the fireplace is slow, not because it's a lotta work, more because we just too darn lazy to do anything at the end of the day! Happen to anyone else?

Forget what the fireplace used to look like click HERE

Begining of trim work

All trim is up and first coat of paint done YAY!

Look at all the crap I had on the fireplace! Holy, do I need downsize on the trinkets!

I wanted to start some projects so bad, but with all the bad weather here I couldn't go outside and spray paint up a storm (Mikey also said I couldn't spray paint in the house, what a Debbie Downer!) so I decided to try and paint using an actual paint brush.

After an hour I was bored wasn't getting the result so I abandoned the project until it was nice outside so I can go back to my beloved spray paint.

Hope everyone had a good start to the week!

Don't forget to check out these link paties for other great ideas and make overs!
A Soft Place, Thrifty Decor Chick

Wanna see my balls?

2010-05-08T17:00:00.009-06:00

Remember this from last week?

It's a thingy to hold pool balls and to keep track of the score

Well today while we were garage saling we found these to go with it

Mike walked right up to the guy and said "I'll give ya $5.00 for your old balls"

I nearly died! Guy thought it was funny though

We also picked up some chalkboard spray paint to redo the chaulk board part,

I want it black not the green that it is now.

Here's some other goodies that we found

I turned to Mike and said "you know what these would look good as"

He rolled his eyes and said "let me guess white?!" lol

Now I just need to figure out what to put inside them.

Cute lil mirror

Below just the mirror frame, this will be painted as well

Saw this out the corner of my eye, I have plans for it.

It was only $3.00, I couldn't say no!

Not sure what to do with this one yet.

Sorry no pic of inside, I forgot!

I've seen so many neat ideas with bird cages

Super tiny but they called to me, have no idea what to do with these

Don't know what this is for but I loved it, might spray it black and put it in the kitchen

Mike loves squirrels, what can I say!

Yes, he is sitting on a giant nut, therefore his name is Nutz

Glassware!

So this is the end result (I did buy another mirror, but I'm not showing yet)

and all this only cost $35!

Mike also got a wireless mouse for his computer, but I figured no one wanted to see that!

I wanted to start some of my projects but it got really windy and started to thunder so no painting today, hopefully tomorrow will be nicer.

I am a fairly new blogger and I love any feedback you may have!

You think I might like your blog leave a comment or email me so I can check it out,

I have a lot of time to kill lol

Check out other neat projects at these link parties!

Finding Fabulous, Shabby Nest, Chic on a Shoestring Decorating, Miss Mustard Seed, Funky Junk Interiors, Southern Hospitality, Coastal Charm

Cheap fireplace mantle pt 1

2010-05-03T20:43:00.000-06:00

I have gone back and forth on what to do with the fireplace. It's a huge part of the living room and the only thing I knew is that I wanted to keep the brick and I wanted to keep the mini make over cheap.

The wood costs $15.00, the stain $6.00, bucket of nails $4.00

Here is our progress so far. Mike had a short day today, so armed with my inspiration pics he started on the mantle.

Here's the before (I know your loving the paint colors)

After the brick was painted (with the small original mantle)

Please ignore my bad paint job

The original wood, then we decided it wasn't beefy enough so Mikey went and got a 1x6

Here's the size that works for us

We're also going to put bigger trim on the ends of the shelves

Mikey distressed the wood a bit with a hammer

Stay tunned for the finished project later this week!

Gone to the birds

2010-05-01T18:30:00.003-06:00

Aren't these lil guys cute and they only took not even 5 minutes to make. This was perfect cause I'm feeling mighty lazy today. The glass holders I got at Value Village Thrift Store and the lil birds and moss are from Michaels. Total cost of project $14.

Sorry the pics don't do these lil guys justice, I am, in no way a photographer! lol

And just cause I haven't posted a pic of the big baby lately here he is

Check out other creative blogger's projects at Funky Junk Interiors

Interested in seeing what our place looked like when we moved in?

Click HERE to see, and I'm warning you, there will be murals!

Out Hunting

2010-04-29T09:54:00.003-06:00

I had to go to the other side of the city last night and decided to top at a thrift store that I typically don't hit up. Well I'm glad I went cause I came home with some treasures, all this for just under $30!

I have a few ideas for these beauties but you'll have to check back to see what happens to these items.

Candle holder

Creepy clown

Mike said this next thing was used for pool

The chalk board part is in good shape (it's just dotty cause it was raining)

Baskets

Cookbook holder

Coat rack, cork board, letter holder thingy

What's your latest thrift store find?

Click here to check out House of Hepworths first ever link party!

Click here to check out Finding Fabulous's Fruglicious Friday!

Babies and Kids

2010-04-28T15:49:00.001-06:00

No, I'm not pregnant I just LOVE me some baby and kid rooms. Kid friendly spaces are becoming more popular and even more trendy I noticed and I'm not going to lie, I have a folder full of baby/kid room inspiration.
Here's some of my favs, enjoy!

This is one of my favs, I am planning on basing a baby room off this picture

(when I have a baby of course lol)

Next few are from HGTV Rate my Space

If you know who's pics these are let me know so I can give credit where credit is due

Do you have a cute kid room you want to share email me at

townhousetrials@gmail.com

Spray paint afternoon

2010-04-25T21:03:00.006-06:00

Some of the lil knick knacks I've been collecting from various garage sales and thrift stores finally got a much needed makeover today. After seeing everyone else transforming ugly stuff into treasures using spray paint I figured it was time to get over my spray paint virginity!

Click on the work to see the before owl other knick knacks

It started with a lil make shift workspace in the backyard. After that I lightly sanded each piece then cleaned all pieces. Then I went to town with the primer, a light coat on everything. What's great about this primer is it was dry in less than 5 minutes (probaby would take longer if you were spraying inside).

After 1 coat of white. I did a few light coats on each

(don't forget to let it dry completely between each coat)

Final outcome

This is the first time I ever spray painted anything. It was so much fun!

Not everything came out looking perfect. There's a few pieces that have some small runs and lil imprefections but oh well, practice makes perfect. Now I just need to find more things to spray!

The paint bug has officially bit me, I can't wait to paint something else!!

Need more inspiration check out

Or click here to visit Chic on a Shoestring Decorating

These bloggers are talented!!

Out with the old...

2010-04-25T17:36:00.001-06:00

NEW COUCH!!!!
I'm so excited! As much as the old couch was comfy it was ugly. Mike and I have been looking at new couches and we figured that we would be spending around $1600 for a smaller, condo size sectional. When we found ths gem on the floor of Urban Barn it was just meant to be. I mean, how can you turn down the last discountined couch at 50% off regular price!

Here's moving the old one out of the way and making room for the new one.

Yummy, the things you find after your move a big piece of furniture. A whole bunch of Magnum's toy mice, a chocolate wrapper, a sock, some sunflower seeds (the seeds were my fault), and some general dust.

Mike putting the old couch upstairs in storage until the basement is finished,

He was just happy to be finished!

Now I need pillows, but I'm torn what to pick. I'm sure I'll eventually find something.

Saturday

2010-04-24T20:38:00.000-06:00

So Mikey and I went to a movie today and after that stopped off at Urban Barn. I've never been in one and the movie theatre was right beside one so we figured, what the heck! Ah hour after being in the store we ended up walking out with a couch! In my defence, it was a floor model so we got it for a steal of a deal of just $700! We're picking it up tomorrow so I'll post pics!

Thrift Store

2010-04-21T20:56:00.000-06:00

Ventured to Value Village tonight and had to share my finds. It was a lil picked over I found but I still found some keepers and Mike even found a lil something for himself.

My new lil friend

He gets added to the list of items I need to spray paint

Lil glass dome things

Moss I bought to go in the glass domes

Mini birds

I'm sure you know where this is going.

Will post the finished project on the weekend.

And here's Mikey's find. He has a thing for big glass mugs, don't ask me why.

The picture doesn't do this mug justice. The mug is seriously about 2.5" higher than the huge A&W mug.

Garage season has begun

2010-04-20T20:17:00.000-06:00

I love garage sales, love the thrill of the hunt, the jingle sound of a pocket full of change, the satisfaction you get when you found a treasure for a steal of a deal, yep I love it all, all except the getting up early on a Saturday.

We only went to a few garage sales this past weekend, but I have already started planning next weekend adventures.
Here is our 1 find, a cute lil beat up table. I couldn't say no, it called to me.
(sorry for the bad cell phone pics)

After some trolling for sales we came across this antique shop that we've never been to before. This place had some very cool finds, if only I have thousands of dollars to spend on this stuff.

This would look neat with a piece of glass on the top and used as a coffee table

Old dentist chair, only $850 and all in working order! What a steal

Love this old apartment mailbox. They still have all the original keys to boot! Only $3100

Hand carved lil table $110

Creepy picture, I could never hang this in our house. It's almost like this kid is laughing at you becuase something bad just happened.

I'm sure you'll see more pics of garage sale finds throughout the spring and summer months.

Email me your fav garage sale find so I can post them!

I'm a bad...

2010-04-14T19:48:00.000-06:00

Blogger, I'll admit it!
Right now in the house trim is getting painted and basement is getting wired, nothing exciting.

I finally went down south, South Center Mall to be exact, and got to visit Crate & Barrel. It was my first time in one and I was like a kid in a candy store. There was sooo much to see! I can't wait til I'm at the decorating part of our place.

Even after looking at all the beautiful stores I haven't found my "style" yet. Oh well, I guess that just means spending more time look at some great decorating blogs such as Aubrey and Lindsay.blogspot.com/ , Elements of Style , Remodelaholic and House of Hepworths

Enjoy!

Basement Progress Pt 2

2010-04-05T13:44:00.002-06:00

Mike and I took advantage of the long weekend to rent a garbage bin for all the trash from the basement. We used Premium Disposal ( http://www.premiumdisposal.ca/ ). Very happy about the service and it was a great price! We thought a 12 cubic yard bin would be enough, nope we were wrong, still some stuff left in the basement.

Here's some pics of the progress

We even let Magnum venture outside and enjoy the weather. I don't think he knew what was going on,

but at least he stuck close to the house.

And now it's full

Here's what's left in the basement

Future bathroom

Future media/craft room

Like the old lino? It used to be on the stairs going to the basement.

What we are going to do in the basement is put a nice big jetted tub (maybe even a small tv), a craft nook for me and a entertainment section with a projector.

Would you put up one of these on your wall?

2010-03-28T20:28:00.001-06:00

On my weekly Kijiji hunt I came across these lovely wall busts.

Only $10 each!

I need to make up my mind!

2010-03-28T19:36:00.000-06:00

I've been flipping and flopping between between paint colors. It's not easy, I am a very indecisive person. One day I want to paint the walls green and another day I'm thinking grey.

The look I'm going for is a mix between modern and kinda country. Weird combo, I know.

Here's some greys I was thinking of. Nothing too dark, more the middle colors of the chip charts. I don't want anything too dark, but I do want a good contract between th white of the fireplace and trim.

I've been pulling color inspiration from some pillows

Here's some accent pillows from www.etsy.com/shop/MARIESCOSYCUSHIONS

Accent pillow from Crate and Barrel

Add texture by adding some green throw blankets from Crate and Barrel

Here's the couch we plan on getting again (probably in a darker grey)

With a mirror like one of these above the couch (ignore the prices, I'm way too cheap to spend that much on a mirror. I did see some I like at Homesense though for about $50)

Storage ottoman from Crate and Barrel

With the long weekend coming up I think we're going to work on the basement. We rented a garbage bin for Thursday to remove all the basement debris and all the reno garbage that has been building up in the backyard.

In a grey mood

2010-03-26T21:06:00.000-06:00

Grey is really starting to grow on me, here's a few pics I've been collecting.

This is my bedroom inspiration of the week

Not very good at this

2010-03-23T21:02:00.000-06:00

I wish I was one of those people that had an eye for color and decor. That's why I'm so glad there are many great blogs that I get inspiration from. With the place starting to shape up I'm starting to think of what I can do to the living room deco wise.

So we found a couch that we LOVE! We actually stopped by Revolve Furniture store in Calgary on the weekend. We've never been in there but we were driving by so we thought what the heck! Stephanie (head designer) was super helpful, showed us a few couches and hundreds of fabrics.

We were thinking of a dark grey or greyish brown. The great thing is the chaise part can be changed from one side to another, so your not stuck decorating wise.

What do you think about green paint?

Top one on the right

Bottom one (the lighte green)

bottom green

Do you think the green goes with a greyish couch, white brick fireplace and with our flooring?

Or am I crazy and have no taste?!

Basement progress

2010-03-23T19:35:00.000-06:00

Came home from work the other day to a beaming hubby. Why was he so happy you ask? He ripped out the basement, without me nagging about it to boot!

Here's some progress pics!

View from going down the stairs

Buh bye murals!

Future full bathroom and laundry room bifold door

Mikey and I couldn't believe how crooked the bathroom door is!

Bath tub is going to go against the far wall

Pile of garbage

Now it's time to rent a garbage bin so we can get rid of all this stuff. Can't wait till we have a usable space!!

Sunny Sunday

2010-03-21T18:50:00.000-06:00

It got up to 14 degrees today, what a way to kick off the start to spring!!
With this nice weather makes me think about ways I could be enjoying my lil 17x17ft backyard.

Here's a before pic, very overgrown and the deck had seen better days.

This summer we plan on refinishing the deck, cutting out all the extra foliage, planting some bushes and some planting some bright flowers to add some color.

I'm really loving the living room style patio furniture like this one.

I can see myself relaxing on this.

I am also drawn to this interesting looking piece of backyard furniture.

Looks way too big for my space though.

I'm back!

2010-03-12T21:15:00.000-07:00

Alright, time to get back at it! Vegas was great, it was nice to just getaway.
Mikey and I are setting our sights on the upstairs bathroom plans. We are trying to figure out what we want to do.
I was thinking of a vanity like these ones below. I can't find any ones locally, but Mike said he could build it.

Not sure what color I want to stain or paint it yet. Tomorrow we're going to look at tubs, sinks and tile. Probably not going to buy anything, just collecting ideas and prices.

Off to Vegas

2010-02-18T21:17:00.000-07:00

I have been slacking on the blog, I know, but it's cause my mind (and my money) has been occupied. Early Saturday morning Mikey and I will be on a plane headed to Vegas baby!

I promise to come back rested and ready to get back to work on the house.

If you have a blog that you think I would be interested in checking out, maybe spur some ideas feel free to email me or comment. Thanks!!

See you guys in a week!

Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T15:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!

The hubby has been out on call all day, so I have been at home relaxing on the couch, watching HGTV and touching up on a few projects.

After 4 trips to Home Depot we finally got the kitchen blinds cut properly.
What I like about them is they still let in light but add that bit of privacy I was looking for.

I can't wait to get rid of the dingy old window!

Next task, hanging the plates

Close up on 2 easy art projects

Form a shape with words

Take a picture you like and add words from your favorite song

Artist: Matt Good Song: Avalanche

Weird squirrel picture

Before

The wall still hasn't been painted

Ignore the pop can!

New, organized closet on main floor, it's not done but it works

And to finish this post with Valentine's Day in mind, here's a pic of our furbaby Magnum

and a wedding pic of Mikey and I.

He doesn't like the camera!

House Break

2010-02-08T20:04:00.000-07:00

We're on a short reno break, the reason, we're heading to Vegas Feb 20-27 so any extra money is going into that. This will be our 3rd trip there and we're just as excited as our first time!!

Once we come back, we get to buckle down and start at the house again. Next project, the basement. Talk about a crap load of work, that place is downright scary!

Mike has been pretty much using this space as a workspace and I have been using it for storage.

Here's a few pics of what it looks like now, don't mind the mess! lol

Half of our sectional couch, extra hot water tank, chunks of trim everywhere

We're going to build a storage room on the side with the painting

Future bathroom

More future bathroom

The plans for the basement is: add full bathroom, put up all new drywall, redo all electrical, add storage room, add potlights, new carpet and cover post in the middle of basement.

Fun times!

Crafty Rooms

2010-02-04T16:56:00.000-07:00

I told Mike that I would like a craft room in the basement once it's done, hopefully this year.
Here's some of my inspiration for the space

http://www.skiptomylou.org/

http://www.home-designing.com/

http://www.decorpad.com/

http://www.naomis.space.typepad.com/

Better Homes & Garden

Michaels Craft Store

If you have a craft room that you would like to share, feel free to email me at townhousetrials@gmail.com

Thanks!

Bathrooms that Wow

2010-02-01T20:44:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn't want to have a spa like bathroom?
Here's some bathrooms that I can only dream of having.

SHOPPING!!

2010-01-31T19:12:00.000-07:00

The hubby and I spent most of the day out, you guessed it, shopping! We hit up Home Depot, Ikea, Value Village, a dollar store and Pier 1.

Here's some pics of the results of the day.

First stop of the day, got some blinds for the kitchen

Then to Ikea

Our car after Ikea

Got the table at Value Village for $6.99

Floating black/brown shelf

Then the lamps

TaDa!!

Can you find the Edward and Bella Barbie?

We fell in love with these plates at Pier 1

Unfinished letters from Michaels

Now I just need to decide what color to paint them.

Moved the monkey and the clock over by the fireplace

Discounted place mats from Homesense (previous purchase)

YUM! from Ikea

Breakdown of costs:

Blinds from Home Depot $45.99
(sorry no pics yet, they screwed up the cut so we need to go back and get them recut)
Floating shelf-Ikea-$29.99
Floating picture ledge-Ikea $14.99 (x2)
Big glass vase-Ikea $39.99
Sticks-Ikea $19.99
Lamps-Ikea $29.99 (x2)
Chocolates-Ikea $3.99
10 picture frames-Dollar store $15.00
Green balls in metal basket-Dollar store $3.00
E A T Letters-Michaels $14.79
Bird plates-Pier 1 $32

Passed out Kitty-Priceless!

Photo Ledges

2010-01-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

I love them! Hopefully the hubby and I will be hitting up Ikea soon to buy some cheap photo ledges (they range from $8.99-$18.99).

There's some of my inspiration

www.hollysview.blogspot.com

www.potterybarn.com

www.theinspiredroom.wordpress.com

www.potterybarn.com

www.westelm.com

www.ohdeedoh.com

Have a decorating blog that you think I would like, email me at townhousetrials@gmail.com

Lighting on a budget

2010-01-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

Lights are necessary, but that's no reason why they can't be fun! Just changing out old light fixtures can instantly change the feel of a space. The challenging part isn't finding lighting, it's finding budget friendly lighting.

Here's some inspiration, enjoy!

Ikea Barometer Lamp $64.99

(comes in nickel plated, red and white)

Ikea Kroby Lamp $39.99

Ikea Jonsbo Egby Table Lamp $29.99

Ikea Smart Table Lamp $19.99

Ikea Horby Ceiling Light $49.99

Ikea PS Maskros Hanging Light $99.99

Ikea PS Vana Hanging Light $79.99

Ikea Lillholmen Wall Light $15.99

As you can see, I love Ikea for lighting. How could you not, there's just so many options. Also they have tonnes of funky shades for every taste.

If your looking for lamps I would also recomend checking out HomeSense or Winners. I've had some luck there as well.

Looking for a unique, one of a kind light? Don't forget to check out your local thrift store. They often have some very unique looking lamps and light fixtures that don't break the bank.

For thrift store lamps give this a try,

How to refinish a glazed ceramic lamp:

1. Find a lamp with good bones or shape (don't forget to try the electrical before buying!).

2. Wash and dry the lamp thoroughly. Sand the ceramic part down using very fine grit sandpaper so you rough up the surface a bit (helps the paint adhere). Wipe down lamp to get rid of dust.

3. Cover any electrical parts with a plastic bag and tape it up.

4. Prime the surface of the lamp with Krylon Spray Primer(or any spray paint primer you prefer). Spray paint is available at Home Depot, Rona or Michaels. You will need to do a few light coats to prime it fully. (Don't put it on too heavy or you'll end up with drips). Don't forget to be in a well vetilated place!!

5. After the primer is all dry, spray the primed lamp with the desired spray paint. (I used Krylon gloss spray paint). Be patient, it's probably going to take a few coats!

6. To seal the lamp use Krylon Clear Glossy Finish and allow to dry overnight, again in a well vetilated space.

7. Sit back and enjoy your handywork! Don't forget to get a shade for your new lamp!

Right now I am on the hunt for the perfect lamp to redo. I have done 1 in the past and it turned out great. (sorry no pics, I no longer have the lamp) Once I find the perfect lamp, you guys will be the first to know and I'll have pics!

Bedroom Inspiration

2010-01-26T16:41:00.000-07:00

My latest idea for the bedroom is to do mostly white room with blue accents, I think it would feel rich and relaxing.

The bedframe I aready have-Not sure if I should paint it white yet

Pier One $140

Bedding-have

Birdhouse (below) Going to paint it and hand it

White rug-Need to find

White decorative plates-Need

Over the top white framed mirror-Need

Variety of white vases-Need

Vintage looking chair-Need

Love the pic below from a blog I just found and love

http://www.theletteredcottage.net/

And maybe throw in a small fern or 2

Also need white curtains and some decorative blue vases and stuff.

Decorating on a budget

2010-01-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

It can be frusterating and exciting all at the same time.

I spent quite a bit of time browsing some blogs with some very beautiful rooms. If only I could hire an interior designer!

I don't have thousands of dollars to spend on a couch (our current couch was a floor model for $800 and it's so freakin comfy!), hundreds of dollars on a beautiful distressed harvet style dinning room set (also don't have the space!), $499 on a rug I've been eyeing at Home depot, and also I'm not really all that crafty.

This dime store budget has led me to Calgary's finest thrift stores, flea markets, garage sales and online marketplaces such as Craiglist and Kijiji. I have built quite a collection of "stuff" in the last few months for practically nothing. The downside of value shopping is most items need something done to them. I can't wait til I have a functional basement so I can built my craft/reading station!!

Here's some pics of items I've picked up lately

I know, ceiling fans aren't for everyone, but it's sooo nice in the summer

Ceiling/light fixture Rona $90

Bedding set found at Value Village for $10!

I'm going to paint this white I think and use it in the bedroom

Not sure if I wanna put a large candle in it as well

Main floor bathroom toilet paper storage

Value Village $1.99

Main bathroom art

Goodwill $3.99

Chair- Has zip off cover

Kijiji $30

Decorative candle holder-Homesense $19

Light fixture in upstair noon Ikea $40

Rocking chair-Needs slipcover-Very comfy

Kijiji FREE

Bedframe-Kijiji $10

Crazy lamp-Want to paint it

Kijiji FREE

Dresser-going to refinish it

Kijiji FREE

Dresser and nighstand-Going to refinish it-Paint it white

Kijiji $30

Future entrance table-Going to paint and re-stain

Value Village $6.99

Swedish Dala horse-Going to repaint

Value Village $1.99

Owl-Going to paint Cute Bunny

Value Village $1.99 Value Village $1.99

Terracotta birds on a log candle holder

Home Sense $5.00

Vintage squirrel (Mikey loves squirrels)

Value Village $6.99

Birds (there are 2)

Value Village $2.99

Coral looking candle holder

Home Sense $5.00

Can you spot the other squirrel?

Metal heart above couch

Home Sense $29.99

Stay tuned to see the completed projects!

Misc main floor projects

2010-01-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

Main floor is almost done, there is a light at the end of the tunnel!

Here's what's been done so far that I didn't talk about in previous posts:

- New patio door- The old one didn't even lock and we had to plastic the window up in the winter to stop the snow from coming in. We had no idea how much windows/patio doors cost. We had 2 quotes from larger companies and each of them quoted over $4,000! It's all because it's a patio sliding door then another window beside it. The whole thing spans 9ft.

- Painted the old fireplace over- Mike didn't want to paint it at first, we went back and forth on what to do with this fireplace. It's such a huge thing in such a small room. I still don't love it and have to do some touch up work on it still. Mike is surprising me with a mantle of some kind, but he won't give me any hints of what he's going to be doing. We might paint all the shelves the wall color or take off the shelves altogether. If you have any suggestions let me know!!

- Posts and beams- There's no way getting around these things, they are here to stay sadly. They used to have these huge bolts that stuck out and in indent in the middle of the beams. They have been filled in but still not had a final sanding and painting.
BEFORE AFTER

Main floor bathroom- There was no main floor bathroom and I want a main floor bath, no actually I NEED a main floor half bath. When we reconfigured the kitchen area we had extra room set aside for a small half bath.
BEFORE

AFTER

Breakdown of costs

Patio door: We ended up getting Mike's dad and order and install the door (he's had experience doing windows and doors). The cost was $1470

Labor for patio door: FREE

Painting fireplace: Paint (1 can) $30

Paint brushes (had to buy a few cause I was bad with cleaning them): $18

Beams and posts: Mud: $30

Sandpaper, lots: $20

Half bath: Drywall: $100

Toilet and sink: FREE (Mike is a plumber so he got them from people changing out to new ones)

Mirror: $25

Got me some tile

2010-01-23T16:54:00.000-07:00

Time to tile, the boxes to tile scattered around on the main floor is really starting to get in the way.
I don't think Mike was looking forward to it. During the whole tiling process we kinda took our time, going for weeks of not doing anything on the house, we were starting to burn out.

At time point, we've been in our house for about a year, slowly hammering away at the 3 page list of To Do's that hung on the fridge.

So here's our tiling progress!

Breakdown of costs:

Floor tiles: $140

Backsplash tiles: $35

Thinset: $60

Grout: $50

Sealer: $35

Silicone: $5

Bye bye icky carpet

2010-01-23T16:13:00.000-07:00

The carpet on the main floor was gross, and even after carpet cleaning it twice it was still super stained. We debated on what to put in, carpet was too expensive so was hardwood so we ended up with laminate flooring. We found an awsome deal at Home Depot, they only had 13 boxes left at a reduced price, perfect! We only needed 11 boxes (but we took all 13 boxes just in case).

It was time consuming but so worth it! Now I just have to find something better than a Swiffer to clean it with.

Breakdown of costs

Underlay: $50

Laminate flooring: $240

Red tape: $6

Run to the dump: $20

No more nasty carpet: Priceless!

Kitchen! pt 2

2010-01-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

Here's the mid progress pics, were almost finished doing the tiling so I'll post those pics as soon as it's done.

Our new kitchen in boxes

We didn't even bother cleaning the gross old stove, we just got a new one

Nice hair Mikey

Mikey admiring his handy work

Kitchen price breakdown:

Floor model black glass top stove: $490

Ikea cabinets(5 lower cabinets, 7 upper): $1780

Arbrite counterop: $110

Cabinet hardware: $50

Drywall, mud, 2x4 to build small wall: $90

Backyard

2010-01-22T16:32:00.000-07:00

Here's a few pics of our lil backyard, it's a bit of a jungle in these pics. I'll take new pics once the snow finally goes away.

Magnum eating grass

Trimming the trees

Kitchen Demo!

2010-01-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

The lil kitchen that was in our place was not only very dirty but not very practical (not that I cook very often).

So we ventured to Ikea to fine ourselves a new budget friendly kitchen.

We agreed on which cabinets to buy, that was easy enough, but it was the layout of the akward kitchen that was getting to us. We wanted the fridge in the kitchen!

After about 2 hours in the Ikea kitchen department we ordered out cabinets, success!!

Demo Time!!

No tools needed

I think he was having too much fun

Time to get ride of the ugly breakfast bar

Yay! all gone!!

Ripped down the dropped ceiling to find a mess. There was huge freakin holes in the ceiling!

Great another thing to fix.

The dumping grounds that is our backyard

Flooring Pt. 2

2010-01-22T09:45:00.000-07:00

Here's some after pics!
http://townhousetrials.blogspot.com/2010/01/got-wood.html to see the before pics

Cost of this 2 day project:

Sander (2 day rental): $130

Sand paper: $40

Clear coat: $60

Misc stuff (clear coat applicator, pastic, masks): $40

It's not perfect, but it's way better than it was before, it's shiny again!

Got Wood?

2010-01-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

Upstairs our place has beautiful original hardwood from 1963, it's so sad that the originals owners didn't take care of them. Oh well, another job for Mikey!

We rented the sander from Home Depot bright and early one Saturday morning and went at it. It ended up being a lot more work than we though, then again you can say that about any reno project.

Here's some before and during pics

Like our rockin stereo

Fixing big nails that were stickin out

Magnum was not impressed that we took away his viewing dresser

Taping off the stairs

For the after pics click here http://townhousetrials.blogspot.com/2010/01/flooring-pt-2.html

Color my World (and fix my holes)

2010-01-21T19:33:00.001-07:00

So after the many bottles of bleach, after carpet cleaning twice, and after about 1 week with all the windows open were were able to start moving in.

My dad, who is a painter and a general all around handy guy and his girlfriend, who is also a painter, were drafted to start fixing the place up, and turn our house into a home.

I never knew a lil townhouse could go thru so much drywall mud!

Thanks Dad and Tracey!!!!!!

Breakdown of costs:

Paint: FREE!!

Labor: FREE!!

4 buckets of mud: $90

And so it begins...

2010-01-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone and welcome!

Our townhouse, it needed help, we knew that when we bought it, we actually bought it cause it nneded so much work. Living in Calgary, AB. Canada, we knew that the only was we could get our foot in the door was to find the worst house on the best street so to speak. We had a desired area that we wanted to stay within and that made the search near impossible. One day, when we were thinking of giving up this "jewel" came up on the MLS. We made an appointment to see it right away.

The look on our realtor's face is still fresh in my memory, it was a look of disgust and shock, that's when we knew it was perfect, we found our home.

Here's some before pictures, enjoy!!

Hope you enjoyed some lovely "before" shots! I look forward to blogging our progress.

If you have any questions or advice or wanna share your experience or blog drop me a line at townhousetrials@gmail.com

Tracy