Making Things Personal

With the popularity of Etsy and Pinterest, creative ideas to make found objects personal are racing all over the web. The use of chalkboard paint is a popular trend right now to accomplish that, but despite the overuse, it remains valuable. Commercially, chalk materials are out of date and have been replaced with whiteboards and Powerpoints. This give it the vintage, kitschy feel that many of us are looking for in our homes. The ability to have labels in your own handwriting with such a colorful, rich material brings a personal look to items that adds a feeling of comfort to your home. I found enjoyment in refurbishing a few objects with chalkboard paint in order to give them new life and purpose. Enjoy your own chalkboard projects!

Decor Elements

Everyone has undoubtedly experienced the stress and physical labor of moving. This arduous task is something that I rarely look forward to... except for one detail: inspiration. An empty house is like a blank page in a new journal waiting for someone with a vision to make their mark on it. I get energized balancing the characteristics of the existing rooms with new items I find, matching them to old items that tell the story of my past. Included are a few snapshots of my favorite elements in our latest dwelling.

Meet Sheldon

This purebred little ball of black and white energy is the newest member of our family. He is the closest thing Joe and I have had to raising a child thus far. Thoughtfully named after Sheldon, a TV character portrayed as a genius, he is too intelligent for his own good. Sheldon learns quickly, has the smarts to make independent decisions, and demonstrates bravery that borders on danger. With his marble eyes and crooked ears that don't quite stand up yet, he is undoubtedly a sympathetic, lovable character no matter the action in question. After burrowing into the covers at night, and reemerging in the morning full of kisses and wiggling excitement, he reminds me why dogs become a crucial part of our families... the demonstration of unconditional love. I am looking forward to watching him grow deeper into our family over time.