DIY sticker shock

So, I've been painting and improving stuff that I find at Goodwill. That's my current hobby/obsession.

I was painting a big ornate framed mirror (I wish I could show you a picture but I still have a sick computer) on the weekend and, whoops, I broke the mirror. I was very sad. Hubby wasn't even here to cheer me up.

Oh well, I though later (after some chocolate, that is.) The mirror had a "black spot" so it wasn't perfect and I'll just go to a glass place and get a replacement.

Today I went to a glass store. I brought in my big 'ol frame and asked for a quote for a beveled mirror. I was quoted 75 dollars. SEVENTY FIVE DOLLARS? For just a mirror without a frame? Sigh. I tried not to think about the fact that I dropped something worth almost that much.

So... I'm settling for a non-beveled mirror. For $25 dollars. Sigh. So much for frugal redecorating.
I *love* the frame, so I guess it it worth it.

The moral of this story? If you are painting a Goodwill/thrift store find, take the mirror out of the frame before you start moving it around! And those framed mirrors you find? If they are in good shape, grab 'em!

Maybe someone can learn from my expensive mistake and my free but valuable advice. :)Pin It

Blogging without photos

Sigh. I still don't have my "real" computer. The power supply is toast so I'm using an old laptop with my monitor. All this to say, I can't share any photos right now. I do have some, believe me. So, instead of whining about this situation (well *after* whining a lot), I'm going to blog anyway.

What's on my mind? Fall! Today is the official first day so I can go for it as far as decorating, crafts, plans, etc.

1. I like non-traditional fall decorating. Too much orange makes me feel a little ill. Chelsea's idea for making black & white pumpkins (using dollar store materials) is so cool!

2. White pumpkins. I love them. The problem is the price and scarcity. So, what does any self-respecting crafter do? Spray paint some regular ones! Here are some instructions.

3. Going to Molbak's for their fall play has become one of our family's traditions. This year it is Rumpelstiltskin (I had to look that one up!). Almost every Saturday in October, you can go see a very funny family play (for free!) and grab some yummy snacks, too. Bring your camera since they always have a photo spot set up.

Now, to really get me in the fall mood, I need some apple cider from Trader Joe's. Hear that TJs?? It's time!Pin It

Messy Beautiful

I love this blog post - go read it! It will change your perspective.
Thanks, Andrea, for the alert.

(I would include a photo of my own messy beautiful but I'm having computer problems right now. I'm grateful, though, to have a hard-working hubby who will soon have it fixed.)
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Back to School!

September 1st was the first day back to school for both of my boys. My youngest started kindergarten and my oldest started 2nd grade, both going to the same school for the first time!

This photo was taken today:
No, my boys don't just decide to wear the same outfit, they're wearing their uniforms. :) And those are "the guys" that C is holding.

We had orientation day on the 31st which is the day to find the classrooms, meet the teachers and bring in supplies. My youngest wasn't all that interested in posing.
My youngest had some trouble saying goodbye to Mommy and Daddy on the first day, although we think he was "putting it on" a bit. :)
He did great saying goodbye today.

Here is my oldest on the first day of school:

(note to self - get a photo of A with his teacher)

Now, if only there was a school bus, everything would be perfect. ;)Pin It