Three years later than planned, we finally have updated our home’s curb appeal; replacing the front pad, sidewalk, and significantly rejuvenating the landscaping.
Like many things, the pandemic threw a wrench in our plans. During the summer of 2020, no one was vaccinated, and we were mostly staying home and social isolating. The following spring and fall, we tried to work with contractors and nurseries to even come and bid on the cement and landscape projects.
Last year, the service providers we had “hired” failed to show up — mostly due to a shortage of workers. It was extremely frustrating! We had saved for the home improvements for some time and were ready to go. It didn’t help that there was a cement shortage and costs had risen on everything.
Last January, we were able to secure and schedule a cement contractor to replace our 38-year old home’s original front pad. He also replaced the OmniStone walk — weed control had become a relentless chore. Happily, the crew showed in April, as planned. It was just days after we returned from nephew’s Charleston wedding, and Netherland’s vacation to see the Tulip Fields.
A few weeks later, I noticed a landscaper at my neighbor’s. I walked across the street and asked for an estimate. We hired him on the spot, and the work was completed in late June. We are delighted with the results, and have been watering ever since lol! Come take a look at our improved front curb appeal.
Last week, we toured the childhood safari theme bedroom I turned into a sophisticated space for guests. Today, I’ll show you the other half, with more British Colonial style, safari decor.
If you recall, I wandered into the room last week as a respite from mask making. When I went back to figure out why the sewing machine was jamming for the umpteenth time, the bobbin casing fell apart in my hand. Argh!
Unfortunately, that meant I had to venture out to the store where I usually pick up mask materials — contact free. This visit necessitated going inside.
But, the good news is that the new bobbin casing eliminated most of the problems I’ve had using my old sewing machine. More importantly, I was able to finally finish up a batch of masks and mail them off to aunts, uncles and cousins over age 60.
So, put on a virtual pith helmet as we return to the guest bedroom and continue our exploration of its layout and safari decor.
While taking a break from mask making, I found myself sitting on the zebra print upholstered chair in the safari theme bedroom.
As I sat there decompressing (the dang sewing machine jammed again), it occured to me that I had never showed you any of the upstairs rooms.
We still refer to the safari theme bedroom as my youngest son’s — even though he graduated from college and moved to Philly years ago. Now it’s one of two guest bedrooms. We converted the nursery into a home office long ago; which is where I’ve set up my mask making operation.
The bedroom has been decorated in a safari theme for most of the thirty-plus years we’ve lived here. But, it’s evolved over time as our youngest grew up. When he was a toddler, it was decorated with zoo and circus decor in bright primary colors. As he aged, the room’s African safari theme reflected his love of nature and animals.
Today, the British Empire style guest bedroom awaits his next visit home. Something I hope is in the not-so-distant future.
It was the perfect setting for the recent, Downhill Dinner. And a couple of years ago, I spread out an Apres-Ski Buffet amongst all the ski lodge theme decor.
I meant to take you on a little tour of the basement level game room weeks ago. But, I’ve been busy adjusting to a new weekly schedule that includes; training and volunteering at the animal shelter, taking a beginner’s acrylic painting class, and adding a Pilates reformer session to my fitness routine.
All the activity has been a good distraction, as I continue to miss my Sweet Scottie Dog, and adjust to a new normal without him. Last Saturday was a crazy but joyous day at Animal Friends. Ten dogs were adopted during my shift on the kennel floor!
Of course, I’m really looking forward to our winter vacation and spending an entire week with family! The ski lodge theme decor is a nod to all the wonderful memories made on previous trips. Let me show you around.
Everyone loves my over-the-top, monkey decor powder room — or, at least that’s what they all tell me! First-time guests are always taken by surprise by the dramatic, black wallpaper.
It’s still in the mid-eighties to ninety degrees here in now “tropical” Pittsburgh. Sure doesn’t feel at all like fall ya all! I’m skeptical we are going to enjoy any fall foliage display this year.
In the meantime, I’ve decided to show you more of the first floor of our home. Actually, it’s at Myrna’s urging; a loyal follower. I’ve been reluctant to post about the monkey decor bathroom, because it’s really difficult to take photographs in such a tight area. Calling it a room “tour” is also stretch — it’s really just standing in one spot and turning around 360 degrees!
Hopefully, you’ll find some inspiration or ideas to go big when decorating a small room.
After Labor Day weekend, I put away the summer decor and tableware in my kitchen.
One of the things I enjoy about the month of September, is having my home in its “normal” state; without any seasonal or holiday decor.
Besides, there’s all of October and November for fall decorating. It’s nice to have a break; before six to seven months in a row of one holiday after another.
Without all the decorations and tableware out, late summer is also a good time for me to do a thorough cleaning of the kitchen cabinets inside and out. Now that I’ve started that process, I thought I’d continue the tour of my pretty, but practical kitchen.
Today’s tour will focus on the kitchen’s nine-foot island bar; and a few other unique cabinetry features and design elements.
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Hi! I'm Debbee, a maker of all manner of things, who likes to incorporate themes into craft projects, holiday and seasonal decor, table settings, and parties. My friends call me, the Queen of Theme lol!
Home is the suburbs of Pittsburgh, but I also enjoy exploring the world with my husband. We raised two wonderful sons and are now early retirees.
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Meet Whiskey
Meet Glenfiddich "Whiskey," a brindle coat Scottie and full of vim and vigor!
