I don’t have the itch to repurpose things like I used to. Not many years ago I’d get positively giddy over a neglected piece of furniture at a thrift store. Last weekend, I completed a job out of necessity, not for the thrill of it.
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Hello, my little fur lickers, and Happy New Year to one and all. To loving human beans, fellow fab felines, and, even filthy dogs! I’m feeling full of love and perhaps even a little bit high on catnip. Santa was generous with it, as usual.
…I’ve never really liked this ottoman. I think it’s kind of ugly. I bought it from Target in London when the chain was shutting down its Canadian stores. It was on sale, well made and served a purpose. It stood at the end of the guest-room bed so Spice and Miss Sugar could make the leap up more easily.
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Have you ever heard of the poem, When I’m An Old Woman, I Shall Wear Purple? It was an award-winner when it came out in 2001 and started conversations about aging. It’s about throwing away convention and refusing to fade away as one gets older. …
The January edition of the Byron Villager features an article on my hubby’s workshop pursuits. It’s drawn a lot of reaction, from people taking down old homes offering him a walk-through to salvage what he wants, to those ordering custom furnishings and lamps. Â …
For her birthday, my brother gave our Mom a flat-screen TV. Unfortunately, it didn’t work with her old TV stand and the size of stand she wanted wasn’t easily found unless you had an unlimited budget. Derek said, no worries Ma, we’ll make you one! …
On occasion, I will go for a walk in the snow.  I used to skate and I’ve skiied and even snow-shoed but if I am lucky enough to ever live somewhere that doesn’t experience winter, you’ll never hear me say I miss it. It is and always has been something to endure. …
When people say they don’t have any style or décor sense I say, nonsense, you just haven’t found your décor guru yet. Thank goodness for the leaders in the field who present an array of options for us to accept or reject and, often unwittingly, define our own style. In an era when it just makes economic sense to shop at home, a Canadian manufacturer is celebrating its success and its star power as it marks 40 years of manufacturing without ever leaving the country. …
Style and Substance with a Made-in-Canada Label – House Proud, Sun MediaRead More »
Since I made a big hairy deal of the dresser I was refinishing I suppose I should show you the finished product.  I’m not over the moon about it.  It’s only been a few days that I’ve been able to walk past it without grimacing.  Having said that, it is funky and quirky and really livens up our guest bedroom. …
Ikea means different things to different people. For some, it’s a place to stock up on inexpensive essentials for offspring leaving the nest. For others, it’s the home of organizational inspiration for a closet or a room. And still others see it as the preferred option for in-home kitchen design and installation. Its name conjures up an image as individual as the shopper who straps on a big blue bag and strolls through its Marketplace but there’s one irrefutable fact: Ikea has always first and foremost been about innovative product designs. It can’t be a coincidence that Ikea rhymes with idea. …
When I was a kid my parents had a patio set made of redwood. It was heavy and expensive. I remember dragging the pieces inside for the winter using my entire 10-year-old muscular prowess and running out to the yard to save the cushions from the rain. Over time, the wood faded in the sunlight and what didn’t fade tended to chip, requiring several touch-ups over the years. My, it’s wonderful how outdoor furniture has evolved. …
Great Design Moves Outdoors – House Proud, Toronto SunRead More »
We’re getting rid of a futon. Since I have been domiciled with Derek this piece of vintage albeit solid furniture has not been assembled. …