Thursday, August 6, 2009

Projet Du Jour

I have been systematically spray painting black on anything I can get my hands on. First it was old portrait frames that used to hang in my grandparents' house before they passed away.



Then it was the curio from aforementioned estate.



Today it was my dining table and chairs.
We bought it for $50 on Craigslist so I figured I couldn't lose.
(Before)

(After)

I have been unequivocally happy with the results. I'm beginning to wonder if black semi-flat on Doug would be an improvement... Hmmm....

Speaking of projects: I decided long ago that I was NOT a sewer (the needle-and-thread sewer, not underground-conduit-for-fecal-matter sewer)! I was completely content to leave that to other more capable family members. However, I have this problem. I get an idea of how I want something to be and then I can't find it (and if it's out there, I can FIND IT!!) and then I get frustrated (I have a hard time settling). So I began borrowing my mother's sewing machine occasionally here and there, then more frequently, and now since Christmas it has been a permanent resident. I'm sure my mother is thrilled. So I talked Doug into getting me an early birthday gift and here it is:
TA DA!!


Never thought I'd be so excited about a sewing machine! But this is no ordinary sewing machine- it also does embroidery- YAY! It's now set up somewhat permanently in the living room which I'm sure Doug LOVES!
...It's so beautiful... Sometimes I like to just sit and pet it....

And speaking of OTHER projects, here is our latest:
We are in the process of buying this house. It needs lots and lots of work since nothing has been done since it was built, but it is in such a terrific neighborhood and has great bones!!!
It's perfect for us! Though I'm pretty sure our fantastic Realtor thinks we're nutcases.
Today-
Her (in a sympathetic tone): Are you having seconds thoughts after looking around again (since your floor is rotted through and your roof might collapse)?
Me: No! I'm so excited!! I just found a well!!!!



Built in 1966 and still groovin' to the same tune!
BUT, there are hardwoods under that teal monstrosity!



Cast iron tub so the kiddos' water stays warmer longer!




Wow.
I don't want to know what the bucket is for.



Sign says 1961 Rambler, stored for 40 years, $2600 OBO. (Not included)



MY HUGE backyard!
Otherwise known as:
Send-the-kids-outside-to-burn-off-their-defiance/violence/sugar-high/destructiveness play area.





8 comments:

The Earley's said...

Congrats on the sewing machine and the house! The backyard looks like it has a ton of potential :)

Kristy E.B. said...

You guys are so brave! I'm excited for you guys, but boy are you going to be busy with never ending projects!!

CëRïSë said...

The new projects are tres inspiring! Good for you!

Rachel said...

Wow, so much going on! First of all, I love the 'black' everything! I use to love to repaint furniture but I've been afraid of spray cans so I've never used them. Secondly, I heard you got a machine and boy is it fancy! So very, very cool! And the house, it reminds me of 'Flip that House!' Lots of updating ahead, but you should get a handy man out of it and some real thrill from the new makeover you choose to give it!

Ian and Lara said...

Nice sewing machine! I would pet it too :) And congrats on the house! It is kind of fun to update a house, but good luck! It is so much never ending work! Where is it at?

The Wheelers said...

Good luck getting your house! If anyone can transform it, it's you! (And I'm sure Doug will be good help too.) Nothing there a little spray paint can't fix -except maybe the bucket. I think that's there in case you take one look at the commode and decide to squat instead... But I'm sure you can embroider a new seat cover with your new super-sweet sewing machine! And I love the huge back yard! That is a high priority in my book!

Alie said...

I had no idea you guys were buying a house. I love that it's one level, it looks like it's got a lot of potential. I like your sewing machine too, much cooler than mine. You're inspiring me to start a project, I'm projectless right now.

Ryan said...

The teal is sexy, I would leave it. I would include the rambler in the bargaining chips for the house. Buy a house get a car, go for it! -RW