Winner of the Kirkland's $50 Giveaway!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi480L8O2tgUPQGXqx89Q7Px7stNT5MWmsZGTOUGbkRvo56Gp1GjoEWqCgvmkJkeztvdzz5n7SGcLHWboS9OX9-gTf4z9nSf3pv8CyGkJ9Er5_FiIZKWTgaYekgQlc9mAFlepI0drjY8SE/s1600/congrats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi480L8O2tgUPQGXqx89Q7Px7stNT5MWmsZGTOUGbkRvo56Gp1GjoEWqCgvmkJkeztvdzz5n7SGcLHWboS9OX9-gTf4z9nSf3pv8CyGkJ9Er5_FiIZKWTgaYekgQlc9mAFlepI0drjY8SE/s400/congrats.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, the winner of the fabulous $50 gift card giveaway, sponsored by Kirkland's, is ...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3FH9UlYILHagbLTmVeRWjuaXqUqDewdYOhAOqP29nhzmuI1tG3uwiZlUi7EJgTRrG7DVF1chwrRW5yn0ingrJ_4AmMyrsUNpspxh1xbbZP-vaGWGhyphenhyphenlYlQklMU2o7-EJJ_cVKguqldCk/s1600/giveaway.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3FH9UlYILHagbLTmVeRWjuaXqUqDewdYOhAOqP29nhzmuI1tG3uwiZlUi7EJgTRrG7DVF1chwrRW5yn0ingrJ_4AmMyrsUNpspxh1xbbZP-vaGWGhyphenhyphenlYlQklMU2o7-EJJ_cVKguqldCk/s400/giveaway.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><em><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Linda from </span></em><a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/"><em><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Coastal Charm</span></em></a> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">!!  Congrats to you, Linda ... I will be contacting you, shortly.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, thanks so much to all of you who participated.  I look forward to hosting another giveaway soon!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/248/3B01215062574D4D6FFA221C1E7FF50B.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>

Winner of the Kirkland's $50 Giveaway!

And, the winner of the fabulous $50 gift card giveaway, sponsored by Kirkland's, is ... Linda from Coastal Charm   !!  Congrats to you, ...

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Question of the Day ...

<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Okay, so *why* is it that when I set out to complete ONE project (in this case, simply painting the walls/ceiling in our master bedroom to FINALLY match the window treatments I added a year ago) ...</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5JwsBnxeB35SMit-zn0K671X15gvQKLBeR_Zsc-whHyZlKaMCNDNxE_jQJtgy1DLsfTk6-bUcZy58Zt6xPfIoIARFdUJm6xDqbfEU4kWuN7HibAq5ZN_rGf4V_RpxFwVmLnrUF7Iy2s/s1600/masterpaint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5JwsBnxeB35SMit-zn0K671X15gvQKLBeR_Zsc-whHyZlKaMCNDNxE_jQJtgy1DLsfTk6-bUcZy58Zt6xPfIoIARFdUJm6xDqbfEU4kWuN7HibAq5ZN_rGf4V_RpxFwVmLnrUF7Iy2s/s400/masterpaint.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Verdana;">that it spirals into things like ... oh ... adding new fabric:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdS_Ke4TrPWfdyOJN1y1UAqFjlmabTpDCZ83ovdHfWSS487GJNFFr_tDcYTpA37UJNHCzG4t0T2VCmavw-TJGhOxF80Eyng1lCCGtqZB39Kb5tro-VrWjGygfklNEExhFlOl6Nzyijul0/s1600/masterfabric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdS_Ke4TrPWfdyOJN1y1UAqFjlmabTpDCZ83ovdHfWSS487GJNFFr_tDcYTpA37UJNHCzG4t0T2VCmavw-TJGhOxF80Eyng1lCCGtqZB39Kb5tro-VrWjGygfklNEExhFlOl6Nzyijul0/s640/masterfabric.jpg" width="504" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">switching out furniture:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYfFsYsadaCk3ZGoyCh32DsZYxtR31OHoEGsSJzFWzeQb3mdsXemhPI8MK9tAOVkJ7hz5SEbet02JY_-J_Jns7zgEhRlUGx8TQ5kau3Cs0lYVACK3NclkpczZAs4M1XICSKeK4iimwAdA/s1600/mastermirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYfFsYsadaCk3ZGoyCh32DsZYxtR31OHoEGsSJzFWzeQb3mdsXemhPI8MK9tAOVkJ7hz5SEbet02JY_-J_Jns7zgEhRlUGx8TQ5kau3Cs0lYVACK3NclkpczZAs4M1XICSKeK4iimwAdA/s640/mastermirror.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">a trip to HomeGoods:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26x9VAeCNPAIrF_pdR-5TIkOJm9R64O-znwFESy7fgP3XNkV75lfGhsLclWAO0n_SieBJjOxNvFMIX4hNHCWv6T76iT3Mrh8nrN35W-9dAtFN3t59pMAWbUcFvzX0RVGteshwzgXX0Zs/s1600/masterkiss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26x9VAeCNPAIrF_pdR-5TIkOJm9R64O-znwFESy7fgP3XNkV75lfGhsLclWAO0n_SieBJjOxNvFMIX4hNHCWv6T76iT3Mrh8nrN35W-9dAtFN3t59pMAWbUcFvzX0RVGteshwzgXX0Zs/s400/masterkiss.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">an unexpected order of chalk paint:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCWVFNuvP6DPu2mty-wVP_1g_sIwTqiwe1l63NN26adPwnl19eIV2mAuhnS1CWOVre7ayPBLk5WmA_l3FCeKZ-ChXv04ww_za-jLj-7_96OEc_njeDAQG13b9ipxUnSN_hG7qkzZz_paI/s1600/mastertable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCWVFNuvP6DPu2mty-wVP_1g_sIwTqiwe1l63NN26adPwnl19eIV2mAuhnS1CWOVre7ayPBLk5WmA_l3FCeKZ-ChXv04ww_za-jLj-7_96OEc_njeDAQG13b9ipxUnSN_hG7qkzZz_paI/s640/mastertable.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">a touch of pink for Valentine's Day:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4zUCK917IuqBWIuT0Q3ggjfvQAFE4xLofKX1j-DMqNliXY8Ji7jQhd2amj3BJ1AcX2ngQ91VtY7aEiV5RpGQrF-q6hG2Dz1ega3NDp6OpZGf08r2E4FVYuCsZ4LVgZQApg5rT9OXce3M/s1600/masterwreath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4zUCK917IuqBWIuT0Q3ggjfvQAFE4xLofKX1j-DMqNliXY8Ji7jQhd2amj3BJ1AcX2ngQ91VtY7aEiV5RpGQrF-q6hG2Dz1ega3NDp6OpZGf08r2E4FVYuCsZ4LVgZQApg5rT9OXce3M/s640/masterwreath.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*way* too much time looking (and still looking) for a super deal on one of these (from Amazon.com):</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZuFY-VdarHLOqjvEKb7APBeIvPxcpDbOu9yN6uKoZFDbwY0rpLuskY4E_rUpshXYM08ekIcAK5W0PREVLGMZ8f-IP9xgpr0AfuxweUl4VrRZkpzgltub0fQLp6miVRUvqHKn69e8nPA/s1600/41nTV8zpKcL._SL500_AA300_%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZuFY-VdarHLOqjvEKb7APBeIvPxcpDbOu9yN6uKoZFDbwY0rpLuskY4E_rUpshXYM08ekIcAK5W0PREVLGMZ8f-IP9xgpr0AfuxweUl4VrRZkpzgltub0fQLp6miVRUvqHKn69e8nPA/s400/41nTV8zpKcL._SL500_AA300_%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">annnnnd, winding up in our master bathroom, wielding my paint brush while my eyes start to spasm with ideas ?!  Anyone care to give me the answer ?!  Anyone ... anyone ...</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6sB0ksoScsHNfkAlH9jsYBYjyyLwKbkNoCF8vAmk7si1Fe4zOcCwiCwxII744lWhKqQm-8v9gCgbxb6GSB7AaKqirRgRfrud74T0rwD9mDNae-v2AYVFXqYsuX6wox1wAAANhmquqK0/s1600/masterbathlamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6sB0ksoScsHNfkAlH9jsYBYjyyLwKbkNoCF8vAmk7si1Fe4zOcCwiCwxII744lWhKqQm-8v9gCgbxb6GSB7AaKqirRgRfrud74T0rwD9mDNae-v2AYVFXqYsuX6wox1wAAANhmquqK0/s400/masterbathlamp.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Welcome to my world ... please tell me you're my neighbor.  LOL</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Thanks for stopping by!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/248/3B01215062574D4D6FFA221C1E7FF50B.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a>

Question of the Day ...

Okay, so *why* is it that when I set out to complete ONE project (in this case, simply painting the walls/ceiling in our master bedroom to F...

Read more »

Kirkland's Lamp Review and $50 Gift Card Giveaway!

<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><em>(Edited to add:  the giveaway is now closed ... I'll be announcing the winner later today, January 31st!)</em></strong></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">TGIF, everyone!  Okay, raise your hand if you love Kirkland's.  Okay, now raise your hand if you'd love a chance to win a $50 gift card from Kirkland's.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Imagine my surprise when, last week, a representative from Kirkland's Home Decor contacted me to ask if I'd be willing to review one of their new lamps on my blog, as well as offer one of my sweet readers a $50 gift card to Kirkland's!  Of course, I said yes and *patiently* waited for the lamp to arrive!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, yesterday, this gorgeous "</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Metallic Mercury Glass Table Lamp" (which is 29" tall and retails for $59.99), was waiting for me at our front door:</span><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxoZ6T6VHHEwrFYZoDQADp6iVVSvggOWc00cxk5gjpJGPUIGCtbNCE1OQNLsE7427tLqKldMNQxkXRsauuV5sB1U2lXa5XylHr4DZ-mtnCsZKZmAa9HxDLwnGM99dlwEOKITgsnUjj9gI/s1600/Kirklands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxoZ6T6VHHEwrFYZoDQADp6iVVSvggOWc00cxk5gjpJGPUIGCtbNCE1OQNLsE7427tLqKldMNQxkXRsauuV5sB1U2lXa5XylHr4DZ-mtnCsZKZmAa9HxDLwnGM99dlwEOKITgsnUjj9gI/s400/Kirklands.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isn't it beautiful?  While I love ANYthing mercury, I'm especially enamored with this lamp because of its unique base design.  It's sophisticated, chic and fun, all-in-one.  The mercury glass base even has a beautiful slight *dark berry* tint to it, and it also wonderfully reflects any color that it sits next to, as well.  The classic drum shade (which, we all know is so very popular right now), is the perfect companion for the mercury base ... its tan color reminds me of light burlap.  I also love that they chose a black base and finial ... it serves as the perfect contrast.  This would be a wonderful addition in any room and compliment any style of decor fabulously!  I *think* I've found just the right spot for it in our home (just *look* at its ambiance):</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Mu-tWY8cE6iRTYeMxR26tPfeJHhWt9-Tr2pi_RuULvq4bV7CO7UXVhFeufi5r9_V1I2LxwvA3jQ88eHrke0KgOP6UdC3G9FS9EH-cqpfEnN1jsJMPgxHb5E_-axsMGWIFT9qwnbtTvw/s1600/kirklandlamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Mu-tWY8cE6iRTYeMxR26tPfeJHhWt9-Tr2pi_RuULvq4bV7CO7UXVhFeufi5r9_V1I2LxwvA3jQ88eHrke0KgOP6UdC3G9FS9EH-cqpfEnN1jsJMPgxHb5E_-axsMGWIFT9qwnbtTvw/s640/kirklandlamp.jpg" width="360" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Along with the gorgeous lamp, we all know what awesome goodies await us at Kirkland's ... I love that they are bringing in several lighter colored, as well as vintage, accessories:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Look at this beautiful "Vintage Rose Buffet" lamp, which retails for $59.00:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-GuYUJgL6LjASzj14BvGKg3jYN06ADm9oiTp9EdbvqDlDrOeLzg-orKMjIQpMsHBLKmQMMNlzmSHDL2bBu2124tcZ7iHeCA8CMSHen2bh9VivpBAfbiAD_4tIx0HxbmyVd8hXCoy-LU/s1600/lamp2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-GuYUJgL6LjASzj14BvGKg3jYN06ADm9oiTp9EdbvqDlDrOeLzg-orKMjIQpMsHBLKmQMMNlzmSHDL2bBu2124tcZ7iHeCA8CMSHen2bh9VivpBAfbiAD_4tIx0HxbmyVd8hXCoy-LU/s320/lamp2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, what about this "Parisian Wall Clock," which retails for $29.99:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyveOsmPcELx8Fr2vKJCNaN5LnMLYaz9huUUmMn600NzN_LE3KoRmZFnaO8KpHDVqHea0OHQXzV3BKjV13vVOjqbLFqYfpFioh44n5IAZiyW5ZweuMW4idLpv5l7hzcV5Ni_DXDk5NTqQ/s1600/clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyveOsmPcELx8Fr2vKJCNaN5LnMLYaz9huUUmMn600NzN_LE3KoRmZFnaO8KpHDVqHea0OHQXzV3BKjV13vVOjqbLFqYfpFioh44n5IAZiyW5ZweuMW4idLpv5l7hzcV5Ni_DXDk5NTqQ/s320/clock.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, how cool is this "Vintage Key Candle Holder," which retails for a mere $14.99?!</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbZN08oI7s3ikQ1sLEI-iFdWKKPJdlwRXsgWjcjnvEQi7WpevgjZTTv-ndroikDTds29Jiuoa463iMgdsKjJUpLK-nx9YT_3uKWDArHGor70UyOiJS8NeAR0ncqCAgsTWRLcodZ_-Txg/s1600/key.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbZN08oI7s3ikQ1sLEI-iFdWKKPJdlwRXsgWjcjnvEQi7WpevgjZTTv-ndroikDTds29Jiuoa463iMgdsKjJUpLK-nx9YT_3uKWDArHGor70UyOiJS8NeAR0ncqCAgsTWRLcodZ_-Txg/s320/key.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That's only a mere *tease* of the fabulous new products that they have to offer!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you'd like to enter this wonderful $50 gift card giveaway, all you have to do <strong>is l</strong></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>eave a comment letting me know that you're a follower of my blog (if you are listed as a nonreply blogger, *please* be sure and leave your email address in your comment, too, so that I may get in touch with you should you win)</strong>:</span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>  </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Want a second chance to win?  Then, in a seperate comment, let me know that you follow/or are now following my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Adventures-in-Decorating/190422764323744">Adventures in Decorating Facebook page</a>.</span> </div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>  <br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Want a third chance to win?  Then, in a seperate comment, let me know that you follow/or are now following <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/Kirklands">Kirkland's Facebook page</a>.</span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span>  </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Also, please see <a href="http://www.kirklands.com/content.jsp?pageName=blogger_rules-02">Kirkland's official entry rules</a> for more details!</span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">And, PS: if you don't live near a Kirkland's, no worries, you can use the gift card on their <a href="http://www.kirklands.com/home.jsp">website</a>!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's that easy ... <em>I will announce the winner Tuesday, January 31st!</em>  </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>  </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, a sincere "thank you" to Kirkland's for sending the lamp to me for my own review, as well as sponsoring such a wonderful giveaway!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Good luck, everyone!</span><br /><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/248/3B01215062574D4D6FFA221C1E7FF50B.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; 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Kirkland's Lamp Review and $50 Gift Card Giveaway!

(Edited to add:  the giveaway is now closed ... I'll be announcing the winner later today, January 31st!) TGIF, everyone!  Okay, raise y...

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Painting Continues and More Mesh ...

<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy Sunday!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, I'm almost done painting the master bedroom, but then, I'll have to tweak and futz and tweak and futz.  *Sigh*  But, I must admit, I'm loving the new colors in here!</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjVfnDu9D-vdGq3RQN_8ufudAhizsEWFHpvy61Jyvzkdq-k8NkBsn8NkeOaGmvdNDU885ER3KgPeLAqUaqrgmZxCSHRB2noiQEsqhvX_Y8l9XPtywE2QcvLDd9sUFC86v1_lFR3cvX-M/s1600/paintmaster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjVfnDu9D-vdGq3RQN_8ufudAhizsEWFHpvy61Jyvzkdq-k8NkBsn8NkeOaGmvdNDU885ER3KgPeLAqUaqrgmZxCSHRB2noiQEsqhvX_Y8l9XPtywE2QcvLDd9sUFC86v1_lFR3cvX-M/s640/paintmaster.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While I'm working away, I thought I'd share a few more mesh wreaths I've recently designed for others. I'm loving my new *side gig* and look forward to creating many more!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For a Nebraska Cornhusker's fan:</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid1geM04ehZ8lmmgbJfpXbY8gkF37TuAA-4vEmM3aK8F4k_Tya2y_szTq2pcKVPeOMuJm-i7uNjaRTZrFvGm6bMPL5ppL-qAH1W8mgwh-cbflF4rNrZR0ApExzh8obVZmqi_GO5gtPRqM/s1600/wreathwarren.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid1geM04ehZ8lmmgbJfpXbY8gkF37TuAA-4vEmM3aK8F4k_Tya2y_szTq2pcKVPeOMuJm-i7uNjaRTZrFvGm6bMPL5ppL-qAH1W8mgwh-cbflF4rNrZR0ApExzh8obVZmqi_GO5gtPRqM/s640/wreathwarren.jpg" width="476" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This fun customer ordered a wreath to compliment her Christmas tree which was done in blue, brown and silver.  She asked if I'd also add a bit of animal print ribbon for some pizzazz, too:</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEina9f18REYL82zKX5-tNVd9N6btJuca_ItPF7E0DlMr2Ef2g1Vy4vsfISu09fik-9N2j2npifUDJxVqHv5c-lb4m88yBHB-qLXRYnoHYu1L-WreWLnckHRrMylW8axpNdpatuSyh4kmeY/s1600/wreathdianna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEina9f18REYL82zKX5-tNVd9N6btJuca_ItPF7E0DlMr2Ef2g1Vy4vsfISu09fik-9N2j2npifUDJxVqHv5c-lb4m88yBHB-qLXRYnoHYu1L-WreWLnckHRrMylW8axpNdpatuSyh4kmeY/s640/wreathdianna.jpg" width="476" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Valentine day wreath greets folks at our friends' house in Northern Virginia:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2L_Wa31a5x1qninyyQh3Xw3WjC0AqNECZRJ3oIHQwu5knLk0dKETSSQNZltyGTidBuVB9mVXwyHta2qcXr9Ce9q75Bo7F0HckMJMjC5dyWmzNitTYVeB3Ayg4V0NpzHLBM3Gf-jTJDuc/s1600/wreathsjm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2L_Wa31a5x1qninyyQh3Xw3WjC0AqNECZRJ3oIHQwu5knLk0dKETSSQNZltyGTidBuVB9mVXwyHta2qcXr9Ce9q75Bo7F0HckMJMjC5dyWmzNitTYVeB3Ayg4V0NpzHLBM3Gf-jTJDuc/s640/wreathsjm.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A fun new friend of mine gave her Mom a wreath of her choice for her birthday.  She asked for a rustic/lodge wreath for their basement ... this is what I came up with:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbo6IrXPARzeYvtANrmsc3MJVtl15Gghld6iHddnDRzJKkcZi0uZ6KO9aLxdZgFoA5DVkyqvZBknPj19wJIPf1zB3JabVVe4j4H8ninE_M7GPlpizoLmgX0jf0Zs1yGP5ArkxdrH63S8/s1600/wreathholly1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbo6IrXPARzeYvtANrmsc3MJVtl15Gghld6iHddnDRzJKkcZi0uZ6KO9aLxdZgFoA5DVkyqvZBknPj19wJIPf1zB3JabVVe4j4H8ninE_M7GPlpizoLmgX0jf0Zs1yGP5ArkxdrH63S8/s640/wreathholly1.jpg" width="497" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sweet friends ordered an "everyday" wreath for their front door in their favorite colors of black, white and red:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4vQQ5OfP-FkR06Y5LpToWtZVkqFtNkCzz4ChW2w-woAZazyws7ffhDyH8luYgB4ndQB5g5SwBDNP86nq9rca06hzzPkaHi-YRlm8LxM85iPdY7hJm-aLLLJgXVfg_3qpDEs6lJP7xeI/s1600/wreathsjennifer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4vQQ5OfP-FkR06Y5LpToWtZVkqFtNkCzz4ChW2w-woAZazyws7ffhDyH8luYgB4ndQB5g5SwBDNP86nq9rca06hzzPkaHi-YRlm8LxM85iPdY7hJm-aLLLJgXVfg_3qpDEs6lJP7xeI/s640/wreathsjennifer.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I made this one for my parents for Christmas ... they live on the ocean and love anything "coastal!"</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvo9uXio-NBActMhOf2MYZhlDqeVSopVlw1XbZjmwSAltNhpd7ib9k3H2k6ZlH3uFdq0M-EZ0aOe3Er7S3V0dEWZlh_3wAkDqa3gSrYxGTu4Y2hJ5Pif8zJdp-8V1eOk-Jv4ZDL6Uxm6c/s1600/wreathparents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvo9uXio-NBActMhOf2MYZhlDqeVSopVlw1XbZjmwSAltNhpd7ib9k3H2k6ZlH3uFdq0M-EZ0aOe3Er7S3V0dEWZlh_3wAkDqa3gSrYxGTu4Y2hJ5Pif8zJdp-8V1eOk-Jv4ZDL6Uxm6c/s640/wreathparents.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Double the "LOVE" at our great neighbors' entry:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0NumlvP6hT6OV9PFpV1_eqg-99vNb3n-B4F0w1IrjayoY9gWef8_Oahj3WpxFhW9axYrahSIQxkoxcgQolUucls2mJ_9tdlanV-J2qXoaI_N3xTPVrsMRSwmUp-cfzU9wa-A5gQO1dk/s1600/wreathschristy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0NumlvP6hT6OV9PFpV1_eqg-99vNb3n-B4F0w1IrjayoY9gWef8_Oahj3WpxFhW9axYrahSIQxkoxcgQolUucls2mJ_9tdlanV-J2qXoaI_N3xTPVrsMRSwmUp-cfzU9wa-A5gQO1dk/s640/wreathschristy.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A winter wreath to fill the void on a sweet customer's front door:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgyi16IhNhWZ52ExwYRTsZaRsZfPA3TZvM3Wno3SwJFaVEFSKkscJUagZX-Ovh3VRXj1b-ywsE_6ws1Euo0uZLFGyHA1uqi_A8ahX1LQGgbYaa5h-KZp1wRj6YX2I3-GskiIV6IM-dFQ/s1600/wreathssusan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgyi16IhNhWZ52ExwYRTsZaRsZfPA3TZvM3Wno3SwJFaVEFSKkscJUagZX-Ovh3VRXj1b-ywsE_6ws1Euo0uZLFGyHA1uqi_A8ahX1LQGgbYaa5h-KZp1wRj6YX2I3-GskiIV6IM-dFQ/s640/wreathssusan.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another Valentine wreath for a wonderful family!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrkyabiN-PZG3FBKF1FQJRxW3TVRqCZ66Z9lrUJUMVM6miWJK24hO-fs4zkNERX-0YC00gbixleiEvsCIK7JC4JPU3NNKNJ8jNYtKepicOJVAkUkw2sHJ0m_QbghE7EIuE738pWFlfn4/s1600/wreathstaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrkyabiN-PZG3FBKF1FQJRxW3TVRqCZ66Z9lrUJUMVM6miWJK24hO-fs4zkNERX-0YC00gbixleiEvsCIK7JC4JPU3NNKNJ8jNYtKepicOJVAkUkw2sHJ0m_QbghE7EIuE738pWFlfn4/s640/wreathstaw.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Go Clemson Tigers!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24FypNlaA_6m3j4EmX4DjSueC00O064LibX3DvjGQghAmVkd_cWZ-hvaMg2t_smAt6-NanUwKsb22d6YTJ_NTETyZca6k0-WmcgI1nXm3AniTPirvWPmLfo9KjgZ063giEo-xXxEZZuY/s1600/wreathjean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24FypNlaA_6m3j4EmX4DjSueC00O064LibX3DvjGQghAmVkd_cWZ-hvaMg2t_smAt6-NanUwKsb22d6YTJ_NTETyZca6k0-WmcgI1nXm3AniTPirvWPmLfo9KjgZ063giEo-xXxEZZuY/s640/wreathjean.jpg" width="371" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, lastly, our Valentine's Day wreath:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjicm__cBrpMN9KImqPu9qjk133VCnVfTvlY_cR3WD4QHTD1nxiSzBEQqQid1_LfM4HEZHxyhv6Rb3Tg8MNF4dzqHfiHC-5HrQzD4ITNMgy4J1dSXdThucII3nEpjnjQTds4l8XsfdWYeQ/s1600/wreathvus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjicm__cBrpMN9KImqPu9qjk133VCnVfTvlY_cR3WD4QHTD1nxiSzBEQqQid1_LfM4HEZHxyhv6Rb3Tg8MNF4dzqHfiHC-5HrQzD4ITNMgy4J1dSXdThucII3nEpjnjQTds4l8XsfdWYeQ/s640/wreathvus.jpg" width="355" /></a></div>  <br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'll be back soon with *hopefully* pics of our soft and serene master bedroom!  Have a great day everyone ... and, "Go Giants!"</span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span>  </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Thanks so much for stopping by!</span> </div><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/248/3B01215062574D4D6FFA221C1E7FF50B.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a><br /><div align="justify"><br /></div></div></div>

Painting Continues and More Mesh ...

Happy Sunday! Well, I'm almost done painting the master bedroom, but then, I'll have to tweak and futz and tweak and futz.  *Sigh*  ...

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2012 Means No More Proscratinating!

<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">See this?  This is a picture of what this light switch in our master bedroom has looked like for the last YEAR folks ... with this little paintstrip from Benjamin Moore (Ballet White and White Sand) tucked up under it and a sample of the paint thrown on to the right of the switch.  I've seen it EVERY DAY when I turn the lights on/off.  My husband has teased me enough!  LOL  </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EhOiB4c0R3DjeFdAkgXuddsf1RRs4s8NdbWwwqyjTNZ3HnJVvGcS-Qhb5kYmAj3Ob4hSgYbxVr3q7I2F_P_OkG1qX0D68e6ASkHYBmCPGCNjAfr-pBtdUwEGtGhMk_sFHoK1W2VX3dE/s1600/masterpaintstrip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EhOiB4c0R3DjeFdAkgXuddsf1RRs4s8NdbWwwqyjTNZ3HnJVvGcS-Qhb5kYmAj3Ob4hSgYbxVr3q7I2F_P_OkG1qX0D68e6ASkHYBmCPGCNjAfr-pBtdUwEGtGhMk_sFHoK1W2VX3dE/s400/masterpaintstrip.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What's holding me, Miss "ADD," back?  Well, I'll tell, no show, you!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are a BAZILLION nail holes to cover from where we had trim added to the trey ...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrB2skI7yL2-plVnYAtJs6NQaQ5MoKJP-74imYx2MfhD41rZ05Vjvm-Z0ooq7Xf8la3poWkgE3cJhBAAKYi_ppQz6ehuE8ihI17Md8764MkVCGu3Xe5DnOIuJwyqVR4HuUJ-RGgeWQ1A/s1600/masternail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrB2skI7yL2-plVnYAtJs6NQaQ5MoKJP-74imYx2MfhD41rZ05Vjvm-Z0ooq7Xf8la3poWkgE3cJhBAAKYi_ppQz6ehuE8ihI17Md8764MkVCGu3Xe5DnOIuJwyqVR4HuUJ-RGgeWQ1A/s400/masternail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">a GABILLION nail holes just like these to be filled on every single wall that Miss "I don't like to measure, just put holes in the wall until you get it just right!" added ...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvq_V56UWZHbkBWlbzjCgO66bYJFaumaW0TEhtb3FcTORHdzr-0Ihk1lluUzxp3-jRO1oqsYdMWy6DhtrD5geWlDFUSaOVnAZatt92W7GjXV3hJjfd3dMu9iX7HEdIqwcB_vfcK1eObSw/s1600/masternailholes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvq_V56UWZHbkBWlbzjCgO66bYJFaumaW0TEhtb3FcTORHdzr-0Ihk1lluUzxp3-jRO1oqsYdMWy6DhtrD5geWlDFUSaOVnAZatt92W7GjXV3hJjfd3dMu9iX7HEdIqwcB_vfcK1eObSw/s400/masternailholes.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Annnnnnd, our big ol' trey will have to be primed before painting:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdljdhHYdD5YaZyiAhxQDlJjw-5Qv64UiXWR1OHcONaZM8-01OcteVWZ8s_BX2N_UWhPPpvWrmuNSQlQ8TIpd4k-EYsizun54MknRkpDlMKJwOhCHc3jrKbn_XJLNnYm_QpElFyrDxGM/s1600/mastertrey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdljdhHYdD5YaZyiAhxQDlJjw-5Qv64UiXWR1OHcONaZM8-01OcteVWZ8s_BX2N_UWhPPpvWrmuNSQlQ8TIpd4k-EYsizun54MknRkpDlMKJwOhCHc3jrKbn_XJLNnYm_QpElFyrDxGM/s400/mastertrey.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Oh, and let's not forget moving bedroom furniture is NOT fun, nor is cleaning the baseboards and dust that is living behind everything!  This room hasn't been painted since we moved in almost 6 years ago!  And, I'm running out of excuses.  I know I'm going to love the result!  So</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, that's it ... since it appears that it's not going to paint itself, it's time to put my big girl painting pants on and just do it!  The walls will be BM White Sand, the trey will be BM Ballet White, and the ceiling will be Ballet White cut at 75%.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Wish me luck ... see you in a year!  LOL</span></div><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/248/3B01215062574D4D6FFA221C1E7FF50B.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>

2012 Means No More Proscratinating!

See this?  This is a picture of what this light switch in our master bedroom has looked like for the last YEAR folks ... with this little pa...

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Oh, Why Not?

<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Howdy doo, everyone and Happy Friday!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Weeeeell, after transitioning our Christmas tree on the kitchen island into a Valentine tree, I decided I just couldn't let it stop there ... so, the "love" started to spread ... it's contagious, I tell ya'!  I thought I'd share a few elements I used to create a budget-friendly Valentine mantel, and I hope to inspire a few of you to do the same!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First up ... the reason for the upcoming holiday!  Remember my "Believe" blocks from our <a href="http://adventuresindecorating1.blogspot.com/2011/12/b-e-l-i-e-v-e.html">Christmas mantel</a>?  Well, I simply flipped a few of them around, painted them crimson red (with craft paint I already had on hand) and hot glued inexpensive, curly letters (from Michael's that I purchased with a 40% off coupon) ... instant "LOVE!"</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiede9CslrMFUKKvzyZPUNEoQdnq7Ji5JGpZwHOQCWcYYMdorkFNh5jOXRX0uKYJ7oIadKklNQG0ufBWpUnKDwfKVICFq9sNHT14HOJEDJ2KaNZ7799s5aJwDA8ZdnrcorRCf6aJczHA/s1600/vdaymantellove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiede9CslrMFUKKvzyZPUNEoQdnq7Ji5JGpZwHOQCWcYYMdorkFNh5jOXRX0uKYJ7oIadKklNQG0ufBWpUnKDwfKVICFq9sNHT14HOJEDJ2KaNZ7799s5aJwDA8ZdnrcorRCf6aJczHA/s400/vdaymantellove.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, ya' don't want to spend money on Valentine candles?!  No worries, friends ... just add a small bit of decorative red ribbon to one (or ten!) of your simple white candles, which I KNOW you have on hand!  Look(!), instant Valentine whimsy:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisKOqiK_Fzcc3CRWhdA6DFSuK9PKkaU7y60Hf0oanqH9vIFlUKbt-gW939Rbp15PPl_3fbdshjYoVEEl-0ME7lHZSz660lhW01Jnu2aZ4x_rB6LH_cLyVEoR_VZNaJlJr4Jn_dsAf_1Ds/s1600/vdaymantelcandles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisKOqiK_Fzcc3CRWhdA6DFSuK9PKkaU7y60Hf0oanqH9vIFlUKbt-gW939Rbp15PPl_3fbdshjYoVEEl-0ME7lHZSz660lhW01Jnu2aZ4x_rB6LH_cLyVEoR_VZNaJlJr4Jn_dsAf_1Ds/s640/vdaymantelcandles.jpg" width="360" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm also willing to bet that you have a white vase or something similar hanging around.  Why not grab a few faux *Spring-y* florals from your collection and mix in a bit of red berry *Valentine-y* florals:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4M6AaGsXbAMjfPa9-gs8EqI8YqFT9py8Wf9dQ-JftzKEUtKuNEHltWX_3m5p09sTV-6MlF_O3KXKLOnD0i8HzRLerMnCMuJfuf5BLa8CJsSTNlqpzyfD-6WBDawiJ7_S2H7ap9roj_Wc/s1600/vdaymantelflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4M6AaGsXbAMjfPa9-gs8EqI8YqFT9py8Wf9dQ-JftzKEUtKuNEHltWX_3m5p09sTV-6MlF_O3KXKLOnD0i8HzRLerMnCMuJfuf5BLa8CJsSTNlqpzyfD-6WBDawiJ7_S2H7ap9roj_Wc/s640/vdaymantelflowers.jpg" width="360" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">And, hmmmm, as the crowning touch, do you happen to have an inexpensive heart made out of *faux* roses?  If not, then think about skipping on over to Big Lots and grab one (better yet, make one of your own, you crafty gals, you).  And, THEN ... why not frame it with a picture frame (that you're currently not using) and layer both of those on top of a mirror?!  I love adding layers, EXCEPT for layers of fat, which I seem to have added a LOT of lately (gee, thanks, holiday season) ... true story !!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHCLvj3eS_j9ECRlbPu7CaBCjxVWlAjy0H62h7avVqBznHPDFxtQDwpVRmVgNnJIuKrdhbifLLcPC4KnTr20YqWpXYSiT2f04JqCZ_q1xSCgHytnVDxvoVuMEb1EFIKswTt2ivlnx5tE/s1600/vdaymantelrose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHCLvj3eS_j9ECRlbPu7CaBCjxVWlAjy0H62h7avVqBznHPDFxtQDwpVRmVgNnJIuKrdhbifLLcPC4KnTr20YqWpXYSiT2f04JqCZ_q1xSCgHytnVDxvoVuMEb1EFIKswTt2ivlnx5tE/s640/vdaymantelrose.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">After adding a few more simple, on-hand goodies, here's our first *eva* Valentine mantel:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eRA4J3ZurUG5I23aK-kBPL63nVRsmbzBMGLdX0D4YM0h_jH5_di5RYUB3Xd2eatGH1Z3hO0KvtsiDo5ojSnZnd5RVtSRxmlo4zuTKoHYV3b3HERUEGpowfpALUZpXXjFNye_oimPjBM/s1600/vdaymanteloverall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eRA4J3ZurUG5I23aK-kBPL63nVRsmbzBMGLdX0D4YM0h_jH5_di5RYUB3Xd2eatGH1Z3hO0KvtsiDo5ojSnZnd5RVtSRxmlo4zuTKoHYV3b3HERUEGpowfpALUZpXXjFNye_oimPjBM/s640/vdaymanteloverall.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RDx3SV21C-7tpV_rumhvfeK_1fTkKG5seVQqQYd1X5eVnYi7f0seG2NveOWiC1o8bfgiaJhAW2EZp6LtbSEhl-06Q5wBtDW53ZP8kJdId8OVJr7FOilNUG6xzQbdjpnXt2vxlrxdivQ/s1600/vdaymantelclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RDx3SV21C-7tpV_rumhvfeK_1fTkKG5seVQqQYd1X5eVnYi7f0seG2NveOWiC1o8bfgiaJhAW2EZp6LtbSEhl-06Q5wBtDW53ZP8kJdId8OVJr7FOilNUG6xzQbdjpnXt2vxlrxdivQ/s640/vdaymantelclose.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkSJN0APSyVSHObPny0fjAq5Y-4-5JSDKwDTGjyyWmVjZa1q0FkF9qMBcqETz1zkN-IqypPvNnkFu0hjVyunbhlCL7vfHXuJtDUAlmgLX1uvUKD6WxMah6ySkHRsfBGJWH0boikbZvwXk/s1600/vdaymantelside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkSJN0APSyVSHObPny0fjAq5Y-4-5JSDKwDTGjyyWmVjZa1q0FkF9qMBcqETz1zkN-IqypPvNnkFu0hjVyunbhlCL7vfHXuJtDUAlmgLX1uvUKD6WxMah6ySkHRsfBGJWH0boikbZvwXk/s640/vdaymantelside.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Okay, so, how'd I do?  And, now, it's *your* turn ... show me what 'cha got!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Happy Decorating,</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/248/3B01215062574D4D6FFA221C1E7FF50B.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Linking up with:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At the Picket Fence/</span><a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2012/01/inspiration-friday-no-47.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Inspiration Friday</span></a><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia/</span><a href="http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyUncommonSliceOfSuburbia/~3/rIHCYEti9es/tuesdays-treasures_17.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tuesday's Treasures</span></a><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">52 Mantels/</span><a href="http://www.52mantels.com/p/your-mantels.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mantel Party</span></a><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Stroll Thru Life/<a href="http://astrollthrulife.blogspot.com/2012/01/99th-table-top-tuesday.html">Tabletop Tuesday</a></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Savvy Southern Style/<a href="http://savvysouthernstyle.blogspot.com/2012/01/wow-us-wednesdays-49.html">WUW</a></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dear Lillie/<a href="http://dearlillieblog.blogspot.com/2012/02/valentines-link-party.html">Valentine's Party</a></span></div>

Oh, Why Not?

Howdy doo, everyone and Happy Friday! Weeeeell, after transitioning our Christmas tree on the kitchen island into a Valentine tree, I decide...

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Spread'n the LOVE!

<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Christmas(?) ... what Christmas?!  That was *ages* ago!  LOL.  And, now that it's over, it's time to spread the l-o-v-e around our humble abode!  </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've never been one to decorate for Valentine's, BUT, this year, I just wasn't ready to take down the tree from our kitchen island.  Soooo, I replaced our elves and gingerbread men with inexpensive hearts of different colors and textures, red and white striped mesh and ribbon filled with glittery hearts: </span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjka7SinHHifB_mSgMs5_hgEePWaM2P0nvT8MDNfbGJDb4j60NCC7PZNump_zIrO182HKa8YUs3f8TMwxnLHsy7SJ-sM2cfOCikTv1jta1TnAlXJcxZ1lPIpKtuv8b1-8QJC4RQa5gr0O0/s1600/vdaykitchenoverall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjka7SinHHifB_mSgMs5_hgEePWaM2P0nvT8MDNfbGJDb4j60NCC7PZNump_zIrO182HKa8YUs3f8TMwxnLHsy7SJ-sM2cfOCikTv1jta1TnAlXJcxZ1lPIpKtuv8b1-8QJC4RQa5gr0O0/s640/vdaykitchenoverall.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aren't these felt hearts from Target the cutest?  You'd never know that they're Christmas ornaments, would you?  A sweet friend I met through Facebook suggested I take a peek at them.  They're perfect (especially at 50% off)!</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW8eLmSWIMG4BloOy83sJbuQii_-wCPA7bhotHl5ylIui8VqM0fef6R8tthcxWtLUTqFtgUEZFerfOIPPdPuksmjy_9kv7Z3KpwUv2LMX9IeKtGmvzh4CsHxXMy8aNhGmilJCF9Mut10U/s1600/vdaykitheart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW8eLmSWIMG4BloOy83sJbuQii_-wCPA7bhotHl5ylIui8VqM0fef6R8tthcxWtLUTqFtgUEZFerfOIPPdPuksmjy_9kv7Z3KpwUv2LMX9IeKtGmvzh4CsHxXMy8aNhGmilJCF9Mut10U/s640/vdaykitheart.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Love all the glitter:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihgBMO2MeBCaPSXlFcythaKr39hyphenhyphenVqtnitu-jPHjHevRWe_GtFRbz5RtqsvAUcvVllb7rI2aaWmQ5ys8xZ9WZP7AE-75x1u8H3hiwC8E2Z51cqM1PJMrSwvqoKG3YIbdiz7rgLGgdB9I/s1600/vdaykitchentree1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihgBMO2MeBCaPSXlFcythaKr39hyphenhyphenVqtnitu-jPHjHevRWe_GtFRbz5RtqsvAUcvVllb7rI2aaWmQ5ys8xZ9WZP7AE-75x1u8H3hiwC8E2Z51cqM1PJMrSwvqoKG3YIbdiz7rgLGgdB9I/s640/vdaykitchentree1.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A vintage "love" note is a great filler and down below is one of a few ornaments Jax made (from Michael's):</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwEHOonlm50qPX8RROmTe_dv99W-jfpja_XdBXIz1hu3R_cfcW0DBNuvsBqEDkrHXOpYwoLjsNCOeCQzDPt0pfFct0YuQtBSL7L2qxfg_S2OuwTLViszDi7C-WuWlgheWBLdeuxTgn0ro/s1600/vdaykitchentree2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwEHOonlm50qPX8RROmTe_dv99W-jfpja_XdBXIz1hu3R_cfcW0DBNuvsBqEDkrHXOpYwoLjsNCOeCQzDPt0pfFct0YuQtBSL7L2qxfg_S2OuwTLViszDi7C-WuWlgheWBLdeuxTgn0ro/s640/vdaykitchentree2.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Of course, I couldn't stop there ... so, I added inexpensive heart bowls (from Wal-Mart) filled with good ol' Brach's *rot-your-teeth-out* candy hearts:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHOJniwPotZOhp6_RJYEkc3W20o_HSsHjJSa8BJLe9h-8q7msx1lwe3CnxPajdDFe9vXMSd-FRz9Gb4LpBzvuv91FTvqjPMq6v5Usos7mIGL5VoApr2q6JG46x4QfEDvVdDFMuPhljmYk/s1600/vdaykitbowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHOJniwPotZOhp6_RJYEkc3W20o_HSsHjJSa8BJLe9h-8q7msx1lwe3CnxPajdDFe9vXMSd-FRz9Gb4LpBzvuv91FTvqjPMq6v5Usos7mIGL5VoApr2q6JG46x4QfEDvVdDFMuPhljmYk/s640/vdaykitbowl.jpg" width="456" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Annnnd, up on our shelves (a la Becca), I left the red and white polka dot bowl from Christmas and then decided to mimick it by adding a canister full of Valentine gumballs (from Cracker Barrel), as well as miniature red and white Christmas balls to a clear wine glass:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMcYHVTT_YJ-o4N-bHyC5tPR5dxzflY46HTWqvFWQpRB3kXIkxv-g2DC3yHJ55BHHeb2NOL2UW7SwYAJun5iKxmCExV3SP3MsG8Tmlxt6whnKkCYL2YRTI-4e1WKa23swzq4uiHg3ZeA/s1600/vdaykitshelves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMcYHVTT_YJ-o4N-bHyC5tPR5dxzflY46HTWqvFWQpRB3kXIkxv-g2DC3yHJ55BHHeb2NOL2UW7SwYAJun5iKxmCExV3SP3MsG8Tmlxt6whnKkCYL2YRTI-4e1WKa23swzq4uiHg3ZeA/s640/vdaykitshelves.jpg" width="360" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Down below, I added a French lamp (that I had on our screened porch) to this little vignette:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlIk-LucofBVrWKAEIBAeTf85d4ZqC_MReY3CQi5nG2PambjGoZvegyMZyQgDwINDTGFawVEJNvwkl7BNo-QlvPnosN56EPQPDrySMordyyUO55NOBZoACD9fob-iP2Ek4A0zBnhJAZE/s1600/vdaykitchenvignette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlIk-LucofBVrWKAEIBAeTf85d4ZqC_MReY3CQi5nG2PambjGoZvegyMZyQgDwINDTGFawVEJNvwkl7BNo-QlvPnosN56EPQPDrySMordyyUO55NOBZoACD9fob-iP2Ek4A0zBnhJAZE/s640/vdaykitchenvignette.jpg" width="360" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">And, since the lampshade says "patisseries," it was only fitting that I place a sweet *faux* treat under the cloche:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsmrq4GkbHRIrdKiciMSr2SFchVVAgl63odjWAyr4fhjkyuLmfa9yLKWK1ARs177VzY3XyLROQWburaJ8h4A873v_ZAinv0KkflYhR6MpEVsCefHFlMajpWqTzOqIlH3oLJRv7W26nU4/s1600/vdaykittreat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsmrq4GkbHRIrdKiciMSr2SFchVVAgl63odjWAyr4fhjkyuLmfa9yLKWK1ARs177VzY3XyLROQWburaJ8h4A873v_ZAinv0KkflYhR6MpEVsCefHFlMajpWqTzOqIlH3oLJRv7W26nU4/s640/vdaykittreat.jpg" width="360" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Over to the left ... I brought back a white tray and then added a red striped napkin and placed our scale on top of that ... shiny red apples took the place of our sweet treats from Christmas.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SBiz6U5wgeHCZfPm4NTmBg8B1Fs46e8_SEN7JzOPXynPx3ozrwwh618Nr8jioaJ1ANEYAQaFcRs3OT4asvUwa6dC4fUrL2kKaFHY_V_1LOhzn2BVLR8_q1A-XCa7HQ6SOCapHRffGSk/s1600/vdaykitscale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SBiz6U5wgeHCZfPm4NTmBg8B1Fs46e8_SEN7JzOPXynPx3ozrwwh618Nr8jioaJ1ANEYAQaFcRs3OT4asvUwa6dC4fUrL2kKaFHY_V_1LOhzn2BVLR8_q1A-XCa7HQ6SOCapHRffGSk/s640/vdaykitscale.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">And, well, I was happy to bring back my "summer" cookbooks ... yes, folks, I'm ready for warm weather!</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGXiQqNJg7NOvPaDSjt9M3lNXPbAaokMCeIOV6pZPJ9CNAdKhphoIKygRpE20B6DjzPJA2vN7Cw7kr7mYL4GPmCzYA-_P53ngwM1fSc7G6Fo_oVVx16tHqGDQWg473U-H-QwDyAxvLXE/s1600/vdaykitcook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGXiQqNJg7NOvPaDSjt9M3lNXPbAaokMCeIOV6pZPJ9CNAdKhphoIKygRpE20B6DjzPJA2vN7Cw7kr7mYL4GPmCzYA-_P53ngwM1fSc7G6Fo_oVVx16tHqGDQWg473U-H-QwDyAxvLXE/s640/vdaykitcook.jpg" width="360" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Self-adhesive hearts (with my chicken scratch) add a bit of color and whimsy to our glass canisters:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNoZVIf3Urpp3KRb6NSaAC06F0rtHXGMpyL6yV1vYmkGRwNeguOwAYKtuaRgjyBamAhE2rV_1pX7uaa3KD-6h44P30v3TVmkWrRgvg0OP8LHttBW5JC5rYMdLbcCp8uXP0cGYYv3Q8fsA/s1600/vdaykitcan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNoZVIf3Urpp3KRb6NSaAC06F0rtHXGMpyL6yV1vYmkGRwNeguOwAYKtuaRgjyBamAhE2rV_1pX7uaa3KD-6h44P30v3TVmkWrRgvg0OP8LHttBW5JC5rYMdLbcCp8uXP0cGYYv3Q8fsA/s400/vdaykitcan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Too bad *these* treats AREN'T fake!  Ugh.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKLBmEMWfhXqU2JPTj1sMLKXik584NmqS_aHLCSNAA-jXNbd2O7z_8GtV9TJ_tX17GvehX3eHGvNFVYW_Xr7V1Ds4H-cmBxLkYjufPIHdhY0JSQqu1OiBEf9REGOfDLGNhUrVCL0nQjY/s1600/vdaykitchencan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKLBmEMWfhXqU2JPTj1sMLKXik584NmqS_aHLCSNAA-jXNbd2O7z_8GtV9TJ_tX17GvehX3eHGvNFVYW_Xr7V1Ds4H-cmBxLkYjufPIHdhY0JSQqu1OiBEf9REGOfDLGNhUrVCL0nQjY/s400/vdaykitchencan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">This candle was lonely until I paired it with leftover hearts ... what an inexpensive way to add a bit of fun ... I *know* you have a lonely candle somewhere, too, just waiting for a bit of company!</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNxOO-Rn2_R3DXliZTepmEz3fjQhKjNck6z0tJtrCIRjd9hevtniPIYpms9ygHjrtMYqjKns6lxmYlc1AHIp_7yxwTMUSRVCPQe9WBbPdwsHTlrg-iAiczuLyqI9FT4cyxHmlNovzW8WI/s1600/vdaykitchencandle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNxOO-Rn2_R3DXliZTepmEz3fjQhKjNck6z0tJtrCIRjd9hevtniPIYpms9ygHjrtMYqjKns6lxmYlc1AHIp_7yxwTMUSRVCPQe9WBbPdwsHTlrg-iAiczuLyqI9FT4cyxHmlNovzW8WI/s640/vdaykitchencandle.jpg" width="454" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Of course, I couldn't forget the soffit:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yt-dB3kOWfsfJATqkBABfXu_yA_e2r1C_69nlelS0xyPkG_AvqGxng5zs0xTComT2azfJmQaO7j4xF3u4PtmukaVJRPlCRkc58sgyn3VNtvoDZfas-xnOy6P1VbGvodWJC0Do_ITTf0/s1600/vdaykitsoffit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yt-dB3kOWfsfJATqkBABfXu_yA_e2r1C_69nlelS0xyPkG_AvqGxng5zs0xTComT2azfJmQaO7j4xF3u4PtmukaVJRPlCRkc58sgyn3VNtvoDZfas-xnOy6P1VbGvodWJC0Do_ITTf0/s400/vdaykitsoffit.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I love our little tree all lit up ... hmmmm, a St. Patty's tree might just be next!  LOL</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBHCqZftumKs1vnhzaeTHhyphenhyphen8ksfFcz8xc7KPkzokiF89E4M5j74V-63D-i_VHUDq5rMZCNxc-iRu3sKV6SYJPSj0F7AShavCzf_OgQ4zyFVWjgMKWTpmu6mYoNVt45gf46-ri71FKK4g/s1600/vdaykitnight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBHCqZftumKs1vnhzaeTHhyphenhyphen8ksfFcz8xc7KPkzokiF89E4M5j74V-63D-i_VHUDq5rMZCNxc-iRu3sKV6SYJPSj0F7AShavCzf_OgQ4zyFVWjgMKWTpmu6mYoNVt45gf46-ri71FKK4g/s640/vdaykitnight.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have a fabulous weekend ... thanks so much for stopping by!</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm joining:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Stroll Thru Life/</span><a href="http://astrollthrulife.blogspot.com/2012/01/98th-table-top-tuesday.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tabletop Tuesday</span></a><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia/<a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/2012/01/tuesdays-treasures_09.html">Tuesday's Treasures</a></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Coastal Charm/<a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/2012/01/nifty-thrifty-tuesday-no96.html">Nifty Thrifty Tuesday</a></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">No Minimalist Here/<a href="http://nominimalisthere.blogspot.com/2012/01/open-house-party_11.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NoMinimalistHere+%28No+Minimalist+Here%29">Open House Party</a></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dear Lillie/<a href="http://dearlillieblog.blogspot.com/2012/02/valentines-link-party.html">Valentine's Party</a></span><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/248/3B01215062574D4D6FFA221C1E7FF50B.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>

Spread'n the LOVE!

Christmas(?) ... what Christmas?!  That was *ages* ago!  LOL.  And, now that it's over, it's time to spread the l-o-v-e around our h...

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