Preparing for a Puppy: Favorite Dog Supplies & Toys

Preparing for a Puppy: Favorite Dog Supplies & Toys

We are on the verge of bringing home a Scottie puppy! I couldn’t be more excited! In preparation for the big day, I first made a list of all the basic dog supplies we already have.

When we lost Fibber MacGee 14 months ago, we donated pet food, medications, bedding, and numerous toys to a local shelter.

But, anticipating we’d someday be ready for another Scottie to join our family, I did pack away many basic dog supplies. That included things like the dog crate, exercise pen, baby gates, car seat, bowls, grooming tools, collars, and leashes. Additionally, I laundered and stored Fibber’s sweaters and coats, fleece blankets, and some gently used toys.

Since I haven’t had a puppy for 12 years, I went to the computer and researched numerous “best” lists for toys and other pet supplies. It was like a puppy baby shower, when four big boxes arrived from Chewy and Amazon!

I also dusted off my Scottie, puppy and dog training books to refresh my memory. And, I watched a great dog training class on TV.

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Remodeled Kitchen Design & Layout Tour, Part 3

Remodeled Kitchen Design & Layout Tour, Part 3

After Labor Day weekend, I put away the summer decor and tableware in my kitchen.

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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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Remodeled Kitchen Design & Layout Tour (Part 2)

Remodeled Kitchen Design & Layout Tour (Part 2)

Due to it’s popularity and response, I decided to continue with the second part of my remodeled kitchen tour in back-to-back posts this week. 

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We started in the eat-in dining area and moved along the side of the kitchen separating the front from the rear of the home.

In Remodeled Kitchen Design & Layout Tour (Part 1), I explained how a half wall with spindles, narrow pantry closet, and peninsula with cabinets hanging from the ceiling had been removed. That created a much more open concept between the kitchen, dining space and family room.

Neutrals of tan and gray, with accents of black, sage green, and clay red, create a soothing color scheme. Italian fruit and Tuscany black rooster decor add interest and personality to the kitchen.

Now, let’s resume the tour in the far corner and outside wall of the remodeled kitchen — next to the large pantry and utility closet.

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Remodeled Kitchen Design & Layout Tour (Part 1)

Remodeled Kitchen Design & Layout Tour (Part 1)

The most commonly asked question from readers is, “where do you store everything?!” After that, are numerous inquires related to my kitchen design and layout. These are prompted by the glimpses seen when I share tablescapes, place settings at the island, and vignettes on the counters. 

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So today, I’m launching a multi-part tour of my remodeled kitchen. I hope to address most questions and satisfy those just a little curious.

Many of us are stuck inside during the winter months. That makes it a great time to think about home projects and improvements for the year ahead. I’m hoping a ‘behind the scenes’ tour might provide some inspiration or ideas for changes small to large to your kitchen design, layout and organization.

This three-part series of posts are not meant to compete with luxury, designer showcase kitchens. But, to show how my remodeled kitchen works in real life — through normal use and wear. I’ll open cabinets and drawers; sharing warts and all. And, I’ll offer a few insights, tips, and suggestions.

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Shop, Pack and Store Holiday Decorations, Tableware

Shop, Pack and Store Holiday Decorations, Tableware

Because of the short time between holidays, I’m busy putting Thanksgiving decor and tableware in place as fast as I can! Today I thought I’d give you a behind-the-scenes tour of how I store holiday decorations.

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Fortunately, some Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations overlap for the entire fall season.

Few people I know actually have Thanksgiving-specific decor as I do. Over many years, I’ve selectively collected turkey, pilgrim and Indian figures.

Right now it looks like Halloween exploded in the guest bedroom! Ugh. It’s fun decorating, but I hate packing up.

People frequently ask where I store it all. The short answer is everywhere!  I’ll do a little show and tell today, with ideas on how to organize and store holiday decorations.

Before I do that, there’s new fall and Thanksgiving decor and tableware that caught my eye.

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How to Create a Kid Keepsakes Gallery

How to Create a Kid Keepsakes Gallery

Mother’s Day kid keepsakes, like cards and pictures, evoke such happy, warm memories of when my sons were little.

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I think I’ve kept every card and crafted ‘art’ piece they’ve ever made or given meI Since they were both in nursery school, I’ve accumulated much of their creations.

Call me a pack rat, and a softie for anything of sentimental value.

Do you, or have you saved cards and artwork made by your children? Maybe stuffed in a drawer or box somewhere?

Most of their kid keepsakes are organized in accordion folders, by year. Along with the artwork, I’ve saved report cards, awards, certificates, and cards and postcards the boys received from family and friends.

With Mother’s Day around the corner, I thought you might find inspiration in this fun way to display and enjoy your children’s or grandkids’ masterpieces.

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