Project Stay Happy Success!

Yesterday I took the day off to celebrate.
On October 10, 2012 I was admitted to the hospital and began my bed rest adventure.
Little did I know at the time, those 12 weeks would change me forever.

In this picture below, I had only been admitted minutes before. I was about to be hooked up to magnesium (awful!), given steroids to help develop the baby’s longs, and taken off all food. I was only 24 weeks pregnant and so scared that I would deliver another micro-preemie.
As you know, I was blessed with 36 weeks of pregnancy and delivered a healthy 5 lb baby boy.
Yesterday I celebrated by exercising, eating yummy food, driving my car, cleaning my bathroom, and playing with my kids. The little things that I longed for everyday in the hospital! 
It was perfect.
Today I want to share with you my last Project Stay Happy update.
A couple weeks ago I contacted the social worker at St. Luke’s hospital in Boise. 
I was given word that they had several women on bedrest and that my packages would be welcomed. 
I got busy putting together the final touches on the packages.
I was lucky enough to have several tote bags donated from bright beige, but I needed a couple more. 
I swung by Michael’s and picked up a few canvas totes and some gold metallic fabric paint. Crafting is not my forte, but I managed to paint on a simple heart.
I then needed a way to differinciate between baby boy bags, baby girl bags, and gender neutral bags.
I purchased these cute felt sticker flowers and wrapping supplies from Target. Blue flowers went on baby boy packages, pink on baby girl, and gender neutral packages were left plain.
I divided up all the donations and was able to make 20 large packages and 20 small packages!
The large packages went to women on long term bed rest. Each package was different, but I tried my best to make them even.
Here is a sample of what went in a boy package:
2. Target Socks
4. Lip Balm
7. Bath by Betijo face mask, lavender oil, lavender soap, and oil.
8. You’re a Fox print by Paper & Pleats.
12. Crochet Hat
14. Hair Ties
15. Felt Booties
The girl packages had a lot of the same items, but here are a few items that were different.
I attached links to the items donated just incase you are looking for some good gift ideas for friends in need. Each package was valued close to $200.00 in donations! Amazing. I am humbled by the generosity of people.
I know I am missing some links to products donated, so if you sent something and don’t see the link here, email me!
I headed out to the hospital with several packages in hand. I must admit, I was really nervous!

When I arrived at the hospital I met with the antepartum coordinator and was lucky enough to meet with 2 woman currently on bedrest. Sitting on a stool next to a pregnant woman on bedrest was surreal. I swear that was just me!
 It was such a treat to deliver the package myself, chat with the ladies about the in’s and out’s of hospital life, and hopefully provide a little bit of encouragement as I shared my success story. As I walked out of each room, I couldn’t help but get a little emotional. Bedrest is not easy, and these woman are doing such a great job. 
I left several packages at the hospital to be delivered when new bedrest moms arrive. I also plan to head back at Christmas and deliver a few goodies to each woman on the unit.
Lastly, I saved a couple packages to mail out to woman on long-term home bedrest. I am sending out a few today, but I still have a couple more. If you know of anyone in need, email me!
Overall, the whole project was such a wonderful experience. A huge thank you for everyone that supported me in this project, I know the mom’s felt the love!
xo,

My Favorite Art for a Girls Room

Wouldn’t you agree that one of the most challenging parts about putting a room together is selecting the art?
I swear I have spent half my life on ETSY searching for the perfect pieces. Please tell me this happens to you too? ETSY is such an amazing source, but man it can also be frustrating.
In honor of all the hours lost clicking page after page, I am sharing with you 8 of my favorite art pieces for a little girl’s room. In my opinion, they are all unique, fun, and each would be a great addition to a gallery wall.

1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8
Did I mention the most expensive piece is $35.00?
xo,

A Front Entry Update!

I purchased everything I needed to make an upholstered top for my entry bench over a month ago. Typically with projects I can’t wait to dive in. Let’s just say, patience is not my strong card.
For some reason, this time around the cut plywood and fabric remained in the garage untouched. Strange because this project literally took 10 minutes total I think it adds so much color and depth!

The bench is already sitting height, so I just added a small upholstered piece to the top.
Since it is just made of plywood wrapped in batting and fabric, I wouldn’t classify it as the most comfortable place to sit, but it does the trick for putting on your shoes.
Plus, let’s be honest…it is really about adding a little color.

I went with a dark blue fabric to help ground the light pastel-ish art and storage boxes. 
I used an outdoor fabric with a smaller pattern so it is easy to clean and hides any potential stains.
I purchased the fabric from Home Fabris for $5.00/yard and needed 1.5 yards.
If we were living here longer than 9 more month, I would replace the old wicker baskets and maybe even address the window, but I think it works for now.
The bench cost $16.00, the art was $8.00 (for the paint) and the baskets were $10.00 each from Home Goods. I already had the pillow but you can buy it at Ikea for $10.00.
I can’t complain about a space that costs under $50.00!
I love this cheerful little space to greet me as I come and go.
I also don’t mind peeking at it from the kitchen!
No matter how hard I try, I just can’t stay away from color!
Are you a color addict too?
You can read about my DIY abstract art tutorial here!
xo,

What I am Loving…

Does anyone else feel like the weeks are just flying by?
I can’t believe we are already starting the second week in October.
We had a very busy yet productive weekend. Zack spent 90% of his time at the hospital so it was just me and the kids. We did plenty of cuddling, a little thrifting, and lots of design work.
I am happy to report that my plate is feeling a little lighter, or at least I am finally getting the hang of balancing everything
Life is good.
On that note, here is what I am loving…
1. During my endless hours sourcing products for clients, I came across this darling Etsy Shop The First Snow. I am particularly fond of their prints…
Such cute and unique gallery wall pieces in my opinion.

2. We all know I love a good deal.
I do plenty of online designs for regular people. You know, people that have smaller budgets.
Browsing Pinterest, blogs, and magazines can make you wonder if anyone else out there has a tiny budget. Don’t worry, lots of people do.
So, for all you small budget people out there, this chair is for you!
Tufted, pretty legs, great colors and only $133.00

and the teal is yummy too.

3. Domino is back on October 8th!
To be honest, I never got to fully appreciate Domino the first time around. I am so excited to get my hands on a magazine. 
This room…well, I love it.
I am crossing my fingers (and toes) in hopes that our next rental has white walls.

(images via Decor 8)
Crazy to think, only 9 more months until we move again! Ahhh.
4. Lastly, I am excited to announce the winner to The Lovely Wall Giveaway.
A big congrats to Ericka!
Thank you to everyone that entered!
xo,