I’m not much for making specific resolutions, but rather always strive to live a peaceful and joyous life. After the slower pace of the past few weeks, I’m determined to take each day as it comes, appreciate the moments it brings, and just enjoy every bit of it! Megan said it beautifully in her post, Less and More….so I suppose I do resolve to try and focus on what matters most, and really live this full life I’ve been so blessed with.
That said, my mind tends to race with ideas and possibilities…so I thought making a specific list of home goals, that fit within our budget, would help me focus.
The Kids Bath (which also doubles as the main Powder Room), received a makeover a few years ago, but there was always one place it was lacking.
The white ceiling clashes with the stripes, and just feels unfinished…so I plan to finally paint it….and I’m thinking color! Or maybe just the same shade as one of the stripes. After all, it is the fifth wall, right?
The small Entrance Hall has slowly evolved, and while I love the black doors, they’ve always felt a little flat and cold to me. I’d love to give them a warmer tone….and I think it’s time to add a shot of color somewhere, too.
Last year I started four room makeovers….and none of them are complete. Sure, there’s been a lot of progress, and there’s no rush or deadline, but it drives me nuts to have them half done. I know crossing off each of their Project To-Do Lists won’t mean the rooms are ‘complete,’ but I’ll feel better!
Starting with the Dining Room:
(click links to see completed project)
New Drapes
New Wall Color
What to do with the Piano?
Repair Piano Leg
Replace Lampshade on Piano
Wall Art?
And the Family Room:
And the Breakfast Room:
The Living Room has come a loooooong way, but all I see when I sit in the room are the things left unfinished.
Especially this secretary, which was given to my grandparents as a wedding gift, and I’m fortunate to own now. It’s not in terrible condition, but I know she can shine after a good sanding and new stain. I’ve never tackled anything like this, so that uncertainty kept me from it last year.
And prime example of a room never being truly complete, only recently have I realized I’d like to do something with the wall of windows in the Living Room…paint the door, add trim, blinds or drapes…I’m not sure. But I am sure it they need something! And after two years, it’s time to wrap this room and do a proper Reveal post!
Paint Hall Chest
Paint/Wallpaper Nook Walls
Add Nailhead to Wingchair
Sand & Stain Secretary
Gold Leaf Back of Secretary
And I touched on this yesterday, but our busy life has led to a jumbled mess in almost every cabinet and closet. In order for us to live more productively, I need to create some order. Our storage space is fairly limited, but there’s no question I’m not using what we have to the fullest.
I refuse to get overwhelmed by my list, because what’s the fun in having everything done?! I’ll just tackle them one at a time, and enjoy each process and project along the way. And of course we’ll have a whole gaggle of craft and DIY projects, recipes, traveling and fashion…sound good? What goals have you set for your home this year? Is any of it ever done…and do you ever really want it to be?!
Even when the list is done – it isn't done because by then you have thought of something else…..seeing grey on that secretary??!!
I know what you mean by a room not done. I have the same issues. Things are always changing here as well. This year, I want to focus on finishing up those unfinished projects.
Your list totally looks like mine! Except I don't have as much crossed off yet 🙁 Good luck with all of your projects!
I look at your photos and see how much you HAVE accomplished, but we are always so much harder on ourselves, aren't we? I own a very similar secretary. My parents got it in an antique shop years and years ago. Mine is plainer and in pretty bad shape…but I haven't restained it either b/c I'm scared to mess it up. :s
I've been feeling very overwhelmed by my huge house list too- glad to read I'm not alone but I think you have totally the right attitude about it…one thing at a time and really, what would we do with ourselves if it was all done? In any event, it's all looking so good Cassie!
Girl Im right there with you! I have so many plans and ideas my head starts to spin- and oh sooo many unfinished projects! Its so sad that I have no problem finishing clients spaces from start to finish but cant take care of my own.
and p,s,- Im so sad my Target magazine holder like yours totally bit the dust! I think I may have overloaded it with too many decor mags. I had to toss it out last week. *sniff*
Seriously, I think if I could have about $10,000 I could do all I want to with my current project list. That doesn't include all the new projects I dream up along the way, furniture that might have to be changed out to look better…but it might include new wood floors on my first level to get rid of the now flat builders carpet and tile. I swear, it is never ending, but the fact that I can read a blog with someone that puts it all out there for everyone to see, including the stuff that didn't get done or isn't quite what is wanted…makes me feel secretly better. 🙂
I can't wait to see the changes you make to your already beautiful rooms. So fun to be a part of it. I like your outlook on not getting over whelmed.
Honestly, I'm just so impressed with the amount of stuff you crossed off your lists! I'm terrible about follow-thru…but you are like the List Master! (c: I can't wait to see all the funness going on here this year!
I love how you've clearly established what you'd like to see done in smaller stages – looks like the beginnings of a 'SMART' goal to me! 🙂
(http://www.operationorganization-mn.com/2011/12/goal-planning-smart-way.html)
When do you usually work on your rooms? During the day? Evenings? Weekends? All of the above?
What span of time do you allow for work on a given project at a time?
Your home is just lovely – you've got a great eye and seem to really know your personal taste. That is something I sometimes struggle with – I occasionally feel like I have design ADD! 😉 I am constantly admiring all sorts of design, but they don't always correspond into one particular theme.
Cheers!
Love your list! Can't wait to see what you do with that secretary!
Testing:)
I can't wait to see the projects! I have a similar working list in Google docs — I hope to be crossing lots of things off this year, while still enjoying our new home.
See you DO still have things to do in your home! And I just emailed you asking if you'd painted the dining room yet- that's the one I'm dying to see. Thanks for the mention on my Less/More post. I'm planning to print it and laminate it (laminating everything these days!) to keep my priorities straight.
Not to high jack your post, but when you said sand that beautiful secretary, I just about choked ony coffee! I know, do what you want. But I just happened to be reading Youmg, House, Love's blog yesterday and say that they just fancied up a really ugly dresser with just a Mr. Clean sponge and vinegar? I think it was vinegar. You should try that first before you decide to completely re-do it!! LOVE your blog!
I vote cobalt blue for that wall with all the windows.