tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40574606054071011482024-03-14T06:14:27.498-07:00The Social HomeJennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.comBlogger186125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-22996375903699056022021-05-21T14:03:00.002-07:002021-05-21T14:06:22.121-07:00A Butterfly Garden 5th Birthday Party<p> It only seemed fitting for this to be my first post back in over 4 years, since the last post I hit publish on was my daughter's first birthday (and ironically, also garden-y themed), and here we are with her FIFTH! Where oh where does the time go? I'm not back to blogging in any capacity, but I love looking online for party ideas, and this was pretty easy to put together for a tiny covid-party so I wanted to share. Paper butterflies from the dollar store craft section strung from above, faux greenery and floral I had on hand, and mini cakes and cookies from local vendors. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xsU3gb5EFM/YKgfh8o5kgI/AAAAAAAAHSQ/gzaIMZGBbIwmu7p-wyAoSLW3_Kj2FIZfwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/FC356898-632A-42E0-9D63-743C782486EE.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xsU3gb5EFM/YKgfh8o5kgI/AAAAAAAAHSQ/gzaIMZGBbIwmu7p-wyAoSLW3_Kj2FIZfwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/FC356898-632A-42E0-9D63-743C782486EE.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mPV3QtHATHw/YKgfgf8itcI/AAAAAAAAHSE/7yS6XLJqyhYmdeutCl_rbGYCbV-PUxrmQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/CF325171-8768-4899-AABC-991CEB19CCB2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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In September my little nugget turned one (WHERE THE HECK DOES THE TIME GO?!?!), and coming up with a theme was a monstrous task for me. I started planning when she was about 4 months old and by the time the party was within sight, my little "Parisian cafe" theme had morphed into recreating an entire streetscape in Paris complete with working cafe, flower shop and bakery. NUTSO, I know. Having a custom street facade built, sourcing out glass display cases for the bakery, and trying to find multiple kids-sized wrought iron and marble bistro sets was literally the end of me. I just quit. I told my husband that I couldn't do it. Quinn didn't need a birthday party, did she? I mean, she's one. She has no clue what's going on. And that's true. But as he reminded me, this party was for me. This was also a celebration of my first year as a mother, and he was right.<br />
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A few weeks passed where I legitimately didn't want to do anything. If I couldn't recreate Paris, I didn't want to have a party at all. And then I felt bad; after months of pouring energy into creating parties for our Party Society <a href="http://www.thepartysociety.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">blog</a>, and for friends, and for friends' friends, I didn't want to look back and say that I used all of my party planning energy for others and then didn't have anything left for my own daughter. That just felt awful to me. But I had also reached burn out level and the idea of doing everything I would normally do was overwhelming.<br />
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So I did what I could to create a memorable party without going overboard. I scratched many, many things off my list during the planning process, and despite knowing that I could have done so much more, I'm glad that I didn't. Because, sometimes taking a new direction and trying to make a party "low key" can actually turn out pretty fabulous. And thankfully for me, I have some really talented friends who made it all possible.<br />
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I'm happy with how everything turned out, but above all - that we had such an amazing day with our closest family and friends celebrating the most loving and wonderful little girl that I get to call mine.<br />
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More details on the party at the end of the post. Enjoy my mostly non-edited, poorly lit photos - because if we wait for me to edit them, well, I'll never post them :)<br />
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I definitely couldn't have pulled this party together without the flower wall backdrop from Flowerwall Vancouver (my friend and other blog partner's company). It really did help me decide on the final direction I wanted to go in, and set the scene for the day.<br />
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My good friend Janet at Pete's Sister Creative gifts did the cakes (well, the main cake was a bit of a DIY project for another post) and the always amazing macarons. We actually had two parties (one for friends and one for family) since the guest list was so large, hence why we needed so many cakes.<br />
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And, two awesome friends of mine from my mommy group contributed their skills/wares - the restored vintage highchair and the birthday crown (if interested, message me for their details!).<br />
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SOURCES:</div>
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BACKDROP <a href="http://www.flowerwallvancouver.com/">Flowerwall Vancouver</a></div>
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CAKES/ MACARONS <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PetesSister/?fref=ts">Pete's Sister Creative Gifts</a></div>
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FLOWERS: Thrifty's Flower Shop</div>
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"ONE" BALLOON <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/cheersnco">Cheers & Co</a></div>
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CAKE STANDS: Homesense</div>
Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-4592112804684139592016-07-07T15:30:00.000-07:002016-07-07T15:30:05.778-07:00Watercolor Floral First Birthday PartyI honestly cannot believe I have a 9 month old... and that means her first birthday is just mere months away. Time is flying by so incredibly fast but I'm loving every moment of it. I plan on doing a really special party for Quinn's birthday - but as my husband says - it's more for me than it is for her. Let's be honest, she has no clue what's going on. But me? Well, I think I deserve a pretty fantastic party for surviving 9+ months of pregnancy and 12 months of motherhood - wouldn't you agree?<br />
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While I plan and brainstorm I've been designing some pretty things along the way. This recent collection was used for a styled shoot for my creative party planning blog<a href="http://www.thepartysociety.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank"> The Party Society</a> (with my friend Kristin) and I thought this would be a great addition to my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/451279322/printable-watercolor-floral-first" target="_blank">etsy shop</a><span id="goog_2078656459"></span><span id="goog_2078656460"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a> for those looking for a gorgeous, unique, and not so "little kiddy" birthday party.</div>
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This set can be used for a first birthday, or any birthday, party, or celebration if you omit the "one" banner.</div>
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Included items are:</div>
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Thank you tags</div>
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8 by 10 "Welcome" sign</div>
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5 by 7 "Sweets" sign</div>
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3 printable "cake toppers" - "one", "happy birthday" and "celebrate"</div>
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Banner - Includes letters "O, N, E" and use floral paper to cut out additional flags</div>
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Floral patterned paper that you can use for so many things, included but not limited to: straw flags, banner flags, envelope liners, wrapping paper, and more</div>
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If you're interested, you can buy the printable party right <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/451279322/printable-watercolor-floral-first" target="_blank">here</a>!</div>
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Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-410517508327994622016-05-20T13:50:00.001-07:002016-05-20T13:50:33.212-07:00Lots of updates and news!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sooo this blogging thing - it's hard work with a baby and going at it alone (props to you who do it!). I'm not abandoning this blog, but as you've probably already noticed, posts are/will be sporadic. Even though I can't seem to blog here consistently, my friend and I have joined forces and have started a party/events blog that we are sharing so maybe together we will be better? Who knows - but give us a <a href="http://www.instagram.com/thepartysociety" target="_blank">follow</a>! Since I'm spending much of my time doing things for the<a href="http://www.thepartysociety.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank"> Party Society</a>, I thought I'd compile a bunch of updates for this blog into one post for those of you asking!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #ea9999;">We've moved!</span></b></h2>
We are back home in Vancouver BC and could not be happier. Winnipeg was a great experience but was never a long term thing for us - and especially with a new baby, being home with family and friends is AMAZING!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #ea9999;">Baby!</span></b></h2>
Somehow our sweet Quinn Isla is almost 8 months old. Where does time go??? I will say, the last few months have been great. She's a super happy, easy going baby. She sleeps so well (I might even write post on how we got there because it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows) and I'm enjoying this stage so much more than those first few tortuous, sleepless months!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #ea9999;">The new place</span></b></h2>
I never got to really finish blogging about our house build and subsequent decorating before we moved, but we are in a new home, again - so I hope to get some photos up soon! We've already done some light renos (carpets, counters, cabinets) and it's feeling so much more like home now.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #ea9999;">Label update</span></b></h2>
I get a lot of questions about how my labels and pantry org have held up. Since I didn't spray all of my labels (see<a href="http://thesocialhome.blogspot.ca/2013/03/how-to-smudge-proof-your-pantry-labels.html" target="_blank"> this post</a> about the protectant) there are definitely some smudges on some. And they're made of paper, so yes, they aren't perfect. But considering how long I've had them for, they've held up really well. I would say, if you want them to stay really really nice, either redo your labels every year or so, or get printed on weatherproof mailing labels (a suggestion I always make but have yet to do - and I know I should!).<br />
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<b><span style="color: #ea9999;">The Party Society</span></b></h2>
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One last plug for the new blog, because I'm still swooning over this gorge Cinco de Mayo tablescape we did. Find this and many more over at<a href="http://www.thepartysociety.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank"> The Party Society</a>.</div>
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<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-8323275716238436682016-03-13T10:25:00.000-07:002016-03-13T10:31:05.169-07:00Pantry Makeover! Getting rid of those wire shelves with an Ikeahack<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I've always loathed wire shelving in all it's forms... but I do understand why they are used. Lightweight, easy to install, and cost effective - they seem to be the shelving of choice for builders du jour. If you're stuck with unsightly wire shelving - I have the solution for you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">After trying to figure out a way to do built-ins on our own and without custom cabinetry, I turned to the trusted and faithful <a href="http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/00263850/" style="font-family: times;" target="_blank">BILLY</a> from Ikea. Billy comes in two depths (12 and 15 inches I believe), and by choosing the shallower of the two, I not only gave myself some extra space in our walk through pantry, but I avoided the "black hole" - where food items get lost and never used because they are way in the back. You'd never know these are budget bookcases - they look like they were designed to be in a pantry.</span><br />
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This set up allows for two rows of jars or a bin which makes everything incredibly easy to locate and things don't get lost in Neverneverland. We trimmed out the bottom and the centre (where the two bookcases meet) with some simple baseboard trim to make it look like a single unit. Had we had more time in this house (oh, did I mention we are moving! Another post :) - I would have gone much further like some of the Billy built-ins I found on Pinterest and put crown on the top to really give it that built-in look. I also might have wallpapered or stenciled the back, but I was far too indecisive to settle on anything.<br />
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Before our pantry overhaul, my pantry sadly looked like this (can't believe I'm sharing this!).<br />
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Granted, I knew we were ripping it all out so I didn't invest any time in making it pretty - seriously, how big of a transformation is that?<br />
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Taking out the wire shelving, patching and painting was a bit of a task (the wire shelves were anchored with some pretty serious drywall screws) - but my husband and father-in law tackled it like pros.<br />
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I customized my shelf heights to the heights of my jars and was so happy how it all worked out - another big plus about this project is how easy it is to adjust shelf height to accommodate different sized items - something you can't do with wire shelves.</div>
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Despite the depth being absolutely perfect for this project, the width did not line up perfectly. I toyed with the idea of building in an extension so the pantry fit the entire width of the space - but instead opted for a chalkboard diy wine shelf (upcoming post!). The little gap (just less than a foot) was good for putting large Costco acquisitions before I had a chance to properly put away, but could also have used it to store a broom or a small foot stool.<br />
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While the pantry doesn't always look as clutter-free as these images, the reality is pretty darn close. I've found it really easy to maintain when you have a home for everything. I wanted to redo my labels prior to this post, but with the move ahead just didn't have the time. These labels are going on 2.5 years and still kicking - although some have definitely seen better days. I'm still amazed at how long they've held up though!<br />
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Have you ever used a Billy in a non-bookcase way? Do you have wire shelves you hate as much as I do?</div>
Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-37707023118673728522015-11-13T10:24:00.001-08:002015-11-13T10:24:52.532-08:00Birth Announcements from Tiny PrintsSure, by now family and friends are well aware that we welcomed Quinn into the world almost 7 weeks ago. But you can't save a phone call or a social media post - which is why I was wanting to send out physical birth announcements. It's a traditional thing to do (and I'm all about traditions!) and provides a great keepsake for family and friends.<div><br></div><div>Enter Tiny Prints which has an amazing selection of designer birth announcements, not to mention letterpress and foil (not just gold foil!). I opted for a rose gold foil and I absolutely love how they turned out! Shipping was fast (Canadians, expect to pay duty/brokerage/taxes) and the return addressed envelopes make mailing easier.</div><div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbA0B_SByeHUz3Q7ARQOnpVoFgl1ClMx0OodaU-BdjO-3g8sjeHYywH-8SEkA1sN15q6EUnRaKPiHaqTOxYjGPJWm862jcPHZl7C_W_8fcebYRJ1PtAQBjM0CuaeutsyZ6ZpOAJhGh1yM/s640/blogger-image--2018210351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbA0B_SByeHUz3Q7ARQOnpVoFgl1ClMx0OodaU-BdjO-3g8sjeHYywH-8SEkA1sN15q6EUnRaKPiHaqTOxYjGPJWm862jcPHZl7C_W_8fcebYRJ1PtAQBjM0CuaeutsyZ6ZpOAJhGh1yM/s640/blogger-image--2018210351.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I love the design we chose which has a slight infographic feel to it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thanks to Tiny Prints for these amazing announcements! While they did provide these to me, I'm forever a fan and repeat customer.</div>Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-62953293299692497862015-10-27T10:02:00.000-07:002015-10-27T10:03:43.806-07:00She's here! Introducing Quinn IslaIt's been a month since our lives changed forever in the best way possible. This little love came into the world on September 26 after a short 3 hour 46 minute labour. 7 lbs, 11 ounces and 19 inches long. It's been an adjustment, that's for sure, but we are loving every minute of having her around :)<br />
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Nursery pics and birth story to come as well as our birth announcements!<br />
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Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-8037944999515432642015-08-30T13:53:00.000-07:002015-08-30T13:53:14.716-07:00Nursery Decor and Labels for Baby GirlWhile I remain stumped on how to finish up the nursery decor, one thing I have not delayed on is getting some printables up! I figured the easiest way to jump start the nursery was to create some name wall art (I will share the actual photos of the name art once baby is here and the name is announced!) as well as some clothing labels and tags.<br />
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Baby girl's nursery has gone all-out girly and is as feminine and frilly as I could hope for. While I love the many mod nursery designs out there, I just had to indulge my girly side while I can (while I'm the one calling the decor shots and not a 3 year old into Frozen).<br />
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Using Photoshop, I've incorporated a watercolor effect on some of my favourite fonts as well as used some hand painted watercolor floral elements and am loving the look.<br />
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Looking for some affordable nursery art? I've just listed the clothing tags in the shop for $5 and the custom name art for $12. I'll be adding other labels for baby necessities like swaddles, receviing blankets, etc, very soon. See links below!<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/245366133/baby-girl-infant-clothing-printable-tags" target="_blank">Baby Girl Clothing Labels </a><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/241850331/custom-name-watercolor-art-print?ref=listing-shop-header-2" target="_blank">Custom Watercolor Name Art</a><br />
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I haven't listed this gold monogram yet - but what do you think? </div>
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<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-67028695608469350472015-07-25T21:52:00.000-07:002015-07-25T21:52:20.578-07:00Peach and Mint Gender Reveal Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sorry for photo overload but I just had to share them all! Less than two months ago we flew home for a very quick visit and decided that this trip would be the perfect opportunity to find out if this babe inside of me is a he or she. Kevin really would have preferred a surprise on "labour day", however I have zero patience and really wanted to know. We met somewhere in the middle and found out at about the 24 week mark (about 8 weeks later than we could have had we really wanted to) with all of our family and friends around us to share in the excitement.</div>
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It was a fabulous way to find out, especially since we are living out of town and don't get to share much of this pregnancy with our loved ones. Popping the big balloon to reveal pink confetti was absolutely thrilling (and a complete shock as I was so sure I was carrying a little guy!).</div>
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Planning the party from afar was a bit of a task, but the most amazing party planner I know and one of my good friends back home helped pull together an amazing day. Scroll down to see the boy and girl pins she crafted - they are literally the cutest ever. Boy jerseys with custom vinyl name bars and girl dresses with crinoline - she is seriously too much! She has also just started a blog chronicling all the parties she plans (for fun, not work!), that I certainly suggest you check out! Visit Kristin over at <a href="http://www.passtheglitter.com/">www.passtheglitter.com</a>.</div>
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Scroll down for (many) photos, and more details!</div>
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The most delectable macarons you ever did taste by the talented Janet of Pete's Sister Creative Gifts. </div>
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Geronimo balls from <a href="http://shopsweetlulu.com/" target="_blank">Shop Sweet Lulu</a>. Frills made by moi.</div>
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Baby balloons from local balloon store.</div>
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Cake and macs from Pete's Sister Creative Gifts.</div>
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Printables by me (working on putting together a printable package for the shop).</div>
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Most of these beautiful photos by Larissa Addison of<a href="http://www.luxe.photo/" target="_blank"> Luxe Photography</a></div>
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<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-35801905037391191512015-04-25T14:05:00.001-07:002015-04-25T14:05:21.921-07:00Coming Soon!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXctHoBVcTb3c0n91VXZpKN78fYHM8GYL5kENgRAsz5qd2vCLqQDEdXlNmr0qABdzs4tX-e_87dqPzyV8iwuEe5SrkuZ8YWIlQWRV3281kWCY8u59FpeSYS_rRceci46g9gm13Sw3fKc/s1600/DSC09552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXctHoBVcTb3c0n91VXZpKN78fYHM8GYL5kENgRAsz5qd2vCLqQDEdXlNmr0qABdzs4tX-e_87dqPzyV8iwuEe5SrkuZ8YWIlQWRV3281kWCY8u59FpeSYS_rRceci46g9gm13Sw3fKc/s1600/DSC09552.JPG" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
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Despite lots of things I could blog about with the new house, we've been busy building something else. We are so excited to be expanding our family (this time with a non-furry addition!) this September.<br />
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And, in house news, we just sent my father-in-law home after two weeks of house projects, so hopefully I will now get to some new house blog posts!</div>
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Any baby/pregnancy things I absolutely need? Let me know your suggestions!</div>
<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-41746668591281872972015-01-22T19:08:00.002-08:002015-01-22T19:08:25.891-08:00Almost there! And a floor planWe are three weeks into the New Year and the new house, and slowly chipping away at the to do list. I wish I could wave my magic wand and instantly have the entire house decorated and ready to go! Wouldn't that be nice? I am excited to share photos but wanted to wait until the place came together a BIT more, and we are almost there. Backsplash was installed yesterday<br />
, grout tomorrow, roman shades should be arriving soon - so other than final accessorizing, hanging art, and some larger, future projects, we will be mostly settled in very soon.<br />
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I would still like to do a version with furniture placement, but here is the main floor floor plan. I can say that so far, this is the perfect amount of space for us. It feels spacious but not cavernous. The open layout is just what we were hoping it would feel like and we are so glad we added the extra bump out in the dining room in order to flip the island 90 degrees to face the living room.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqtGbIeiDK5-TPAJM1kYdsayqAT-Vl1TrJuEyQb-BwBxZp9Rx1bgyPOBQdrcGdHQtP8Pb6cRck8WbF1EbpIgdL3x5um59jNtwdqj-Ljgoc6k2enXz-QZlGsp_XIKo_Kb5bS8gMqx_Russ/s1600/Screenshot+2015-01-21+22.39.01.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqtGbIeiDK5-TPAJM1kYdsayqAT-Vl1TrJuEyQb-BwBxZp9Rx1bgyPOBQdrcGdHQtP8Pb6cRck8WbF1EbpIgdL3x5um59jNtwdqj-Ljgoc6k2enXz-QZlGsp_XIKo_Kb5bS8gMqx_Russ/s1600/Screenshot+2015-01-21+22.39.01.png" /></a><br />
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The space in the front was originally an open den which we had absolutely no use for. I thought long and hard about what to do with it, and the only thing that just felt right was to put the laundry there (moved it from the right side of the mudroom). First of all, why would I want my laundry in a small(ish) mudroom. Not only is there no space for hampers and and ironing board and drying rack, but it's a MUDroom. And in Winnipeg, where 6 months of the year are in mucky boots or snowy boots that turn to muck, a mudroom really is just that. Do people seem to think it's strange to have the laundry there? A little. But I'm adding cabinetry and features to make it fabulous (and double frosted french doors), and I can tell you that having a REAL full-size laundry room has been awesome so far. I also have my desk in there for now and eventually plan on making a craft area, but that is further down the list.<br />
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So far, my only one big regret is not squaring off the corner pantry. Long story short, it wasn't until close to the deadline that I learned that we could really customize the builder's plans and move things majorly around. And had we had more time, I would have somehow figured out how to put that pantry on a 90. It would have made for a smaller pantry and it would have affected our fridge and pantry wall, but I'm sure we could have made it work. I am not devastated by the corner pantry at all - I still love the kitchen, and the space and walk through feature is amazing - I just know IF I were to do it again, it would have been nice to know earlier!<br />
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On that same note, we also never knew it was an option add square footage to the plan (in the dining room). We really thought the builders plans were mostly set less minor alterations, and I was really struggling between two plans (a smaller version that had the island layout I wanted and now have, and this plan which I loved but didn't like the island orientation). It wasn't until someone unrelated to our purchase suggested the option that I even knew it was a possibility - and I am so glad I did!<br />
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I remember when we started building/planning I googled everywhere trying to find someone else's building experience and found very little - perhaps it's worth doing a post or two on what I learned during the process, if only so I can remember myself if we ever decide to do this again!<br />
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Okay, that's all for now. I hope to take some pics and post this weekend, as well as to share the upstairs floor plan and furniture placements!<br />
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<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-10359564381027517282015-01-04T19:22:00.000-08:002015-01-04T19:22:08.720-08:00The House is Done and We are IN!Guys!!!! We are IN! Words cannot explain the feeling of finally being in our house. It felt like it took forever, but the final two months just flew by and before we knew it we were signing on the dotted line and turning the keys to our home. It was a total whirlwind having just come back from vacation, and getting everything done in between Christmas and New Years. In the span of two days we had about 15 different people in and out of our house from deliveries to installations to electricians (which we are super thankful for since so many people are off over the holidays) - but, it is done and we are "home" now.<br />
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I can't wait to share more pictures, the long promised floor plan, our experience so far with the finishes we chose, and everything we still have yet to do (like the backsplash, fireplace tile and paint). I just need to unpack the "real" camera so I can take some proper pics next weekend. I will just say it because I've been obsessing over them for the past 4 days, but I am overjoyed with my marble island. I am so in love with it and so thankful I took the risk.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxlRaOFpc8rVki-uErHVOoF26XQ1eheTHVWsA2FwSXAmSfvq-0xxJbUUzTTCdq0d1XW-s4i3CXTi6w8txl3sWlSSSZYQ8KURwGv63Y0i3HhGUYWvb24VsYIIz4qEt3YD4pobu5vUtlds/s1600/IMG_8456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxlRaOFpc8rVki-uErHVOoF26XQ1eheTHVWsA2FwSXAmSfvq-0xxJbUUzTTCdq0d1XW-s4i3CXTi6w8txl3sWlSSSZYQ8KURwGv63Y0i3HhGUYWvb24VsYIIz4qEt3YD4pobu5vUtlds/s1600/IMG_8456.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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For now, here's a quick insta pic (if you want to follow along as I post more house pics, you can find me at <a href="http://instagram.com/thepapersociety">http://instagram.com/thepapersociety</a> ).<br />
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And for those who ask if two people really need a double wide fridge - YES we do :)<br />
<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-63362557314222921882014-12-15T07:00:00.000-08:002014-12-15T07:00:01.306-08:00Healthy(ish), Vegan Christmas Cookie Recipes | Sugar and GingerbreadWe had some of our favourite friends over last week for a Christmas baking night, and I knew for things to go smoothly/quickly, I should have the dough pre-made. So, the day before I scoured the internet for the best recipes I could find - and because they turned out SO good, I just had to share them with you. And, sneakily, they don't contain any dairy or eggs, but you would NEVER know. My 3 baking partners as well as taste testers at work were completely fooled! And even if you don't need to avoid dairy/eggs, it sure doesn't hurt to have a slightly healthier holiday cookie recipe up your sleeve (because then you can eat more) and it also means you can eat dough as you go along, which, let's be honest, is really the best part (and the whole point of baking, right!).<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vTzymNBSZ3o/VI3qHV_2gDI/AAAAAAAAFXU/pLvwTp6BTm0/s1600/Screenshot%2B2014-12-14%2B13.50.08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vTzymNBSZ3o/VI3qHV_2gDI/AAAAAAAAFXU/pLvwTp6BTm0/s1600/Screenshot%2B2014-12-14%2B13.50.08.png" height="630" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is totally how our cookies looked (not).</span></i></div>
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Okay, the sugar cookies aren't really healthy, but they were tasty and vegan, so tomato/tomahto. That said, these are probably the BEST sugar cookies I've ever tasted so I don't know why you would make another recipe ever again now that you have this one. Not to mention super easy ingredients unlike other recipes I found that called for cornstarch (which I was out of) and cream of tartar (which I don't have). Head <a href="http://www.babble.com/best-recipes/the-best-vegan-sugar-cookies-ever/" target="_blank">here</a> for the delish recipe.<br />
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<a href="http://food52.com/recipes/20030-stress-free-vegan-holiday-gingerbread-cookies" target="_blank">This gingerbread recipe,</a> on the other hand, uses some much more healthful ingredients which makes indulging a lot less sinful. I used coconut oil, coconut sugar and blackstrap molasses (all organic) for an authentic and delicious (and very dark) gingerbread recipe.<br />
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And, camera is already packed so no photos of our creations (which were actually really nice less a few very naughty cookies in non-Christmas shapes).<br />
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What is your go-to holiday cookie recipe?Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-29513347060024917692014-12-14T11:33:00.000-08:002014-12-14T11:33:33.418-08:00Designing a Home | Finding a StyleJust 16 more days until we are into the new house. Excited doesn't even begin to capture how we're feeling. But, as the move in date creeps up, as does my self-imposed timeline to figure out how to decorate this blank canvas.<br />
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This layout below is very similar to ours (just cut the island in half, take out the coffered ceilings and the beefy trim.. oh and almost everything else! But you get the idea).<br />
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What I love about this photo is that it's not pigeon holed into a style. The cabinets and mouldings and door style are all very traditional, yet the furniture is modern and simple. It's the definition of transitional design, and it's what I'm hoping to achieve with our home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GKUBlPfoiGIxLbo8HsaVSlfRpjGzp2Y7ujYBfjXX3ghQa2wgn_Sh8bJPS03M2elSQKJTEC6zq8Az42kBt6jYQHRmrYSYCKmHcM7TIZbcYnDCcwQltVRdoOW_RJnLf1k26v0dfD-DX28/s1600/lovely+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GKUBlPfoiGIxLbo8HsaVSlfRpjGzp2Y7ujYBfjXX3ghQa2wgn_Sh8bJPS03M2elSQKJTEC6zq8Az42kBt6jYQHRmrYSYCKmHcM7TIZbcYnDCcwQltVRdoOW_RJnLf1k26v0dfD-DX28/s1600/lovely+kitchen.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homeadore.com/2014/05/09/dunbarsouthlands-house-terris-lightfoot-contracting/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Although the style below is pretty far from my own, I'm including it as a reminder for me to inject some colour in my space. I usually gravitate towards neutrals but look how happy this space is! I just love it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj29W9EeOCg7UkJX2Gsc-fwxfx-rIuHafxk7vwvHcw06U3_1_AOiR79Ga8DksuQ_AhNmVZUxm4JjUzw8j0bzYwHW91Uc-2CkDZxL80jtSI-S_mmhi15BNGMVFVtau12HvMW67cSTkYLoxU/s1600/neutral+living+room+with+pops+of+color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj29W9EeOCg7UkJX2Gsc-fwxfx-rIuHafxk7vwvHcw06U3_1_AOiR79Ga8DksuQ_AhNmVZUxm4JjUzw8j0bzYwHW91Uc-2CkDZxL80jtSI-S_mmhi15BNGMVFVtau12HvMW67cSTkYLoxU/s1600/neutral+living+room+with+pops+of+color.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://thedesignfiles.net/2014/09/melbourne-home-madeleine-and-jeremy-grummet-and-family/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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The opposite of colourful, the style below blends so many textures that it conveys warmth in a different way (let's be honest, I probably won't inject much colour and will end up with more neutrals no matter how hard I try).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1SB9c2UwECR4YBF2r0Z31ZYbfDwlCoEBkXcesASdyE5rujjmMDsPAZz3LWPTqj2CjLwGsBo21dBA_gyzCcKUC-eHNEmfho5zYXFJz6UVBvMSArOl0BT5F4ylWDy7zN5FZ2hmg1BUHQdI/s1600/white+and+natural+living+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1SB9c2UwECR4YBF2r0Z31ZYbfDwlCoEBkXcesASdyE5rujjmMDsPAZz3LWPTqj2CjLwGsBo21dBA_gyzCcKUC-eHNEmfho5zYXFJz6UVBvMSArOl0BT5F4ylWDy7zN5FZ2hmg1BUHQdI/s1600/white+and+natural+living+room.jpg" height="640" width="490" /></a></div>
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I've always loved a little art deco or hollywood regency glam. It doesn't need to be done throughout nor overwhelming to make an impact.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWmeoCWckJ8gU0J7T5DFXMKtaQUgR3GRciR505actLQb2TZpHulsMiIo7liDmxGtLbfZk2JY3lWd3vZ176hov1V5NAG-v59zSdCyur6HvdA0_kW0Pa64IrnTMl5ho_LTKZwr8heynQ_Q/s1600/colourful+living+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWmeoCWckJ8gU0J7T5DFXMKtaQUgR3GRciR505actLQb2TZpHulsMiIo7liDmxGtLbfZk2JY3lWd3vZ176hov1V5NAG-v59zSdCyur6HvdA0_kW0Pa64IrnTMl5ho_LTKZwr8heynQ_Q/s1600/colourful+living+room.jpg" height="569" width="640" /></a></div>
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But, I also love the modern, clean line of this condo design. Do you see what I'm going here?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0FoQLYa8IyQF69WRxn3XDv20JEmNStDRv-8la6wA4HQ_ckgrLvptj_4j_rGE6HjTRZxJusPxQZTNqu37agN_Y-gUEPffQnFHEFQl3RkDhArtbQrNpfPWO51e6PXdZaQ9o0X_6MjPmJLg/s1600/009-false-creek-condo-design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0FoQLYa8IyQF69WRxn3XDv20JEmNStDRv-8la6wA4HQ_ckgrLvptj_4j_rGE6HjTRZxJusPxQZTNqu37agN_Y-gUEPffQnFHEFQl3RkDhArtbQrNpfPWO51e6PXdZaQ9o0X_6MjPmJLg/s1600/009-false-creek-condo-design.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homeadore.com/2014/04/30/false-creek-condo-design/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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And this space is just to.die.for.</div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/241224123765339623/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Okay, if you're still with me you've probably acknowledged that I have design ADD and I love about a million different things and styles. Hence why we are 16 days out and I'm still agonizing how to tackle the house. SO much pressure on myself to make it perfect. Right now, I'm just hoping to get our stuff in there and take it one day at a time. It's hard to know what to do with a space unless you'd lived in it, right?</div>
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If you have, how did you figure out your "style"? HELP!</div>
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<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-39642904001492587102014-12-07T14:58:00.005-08:002014-12-07T14:58:43.839-08:00Christmas Card SeasonDo you have your Christmas cards yet? Or (like me) have you run out of Christmas cards as your list adds up and up with recipients you might have forgotten about? It's not too late - in fact, it might be the best time because holiday cards are majorly on sale. Score some custom holiday cards with guaranteed shipping at 40% from<a href="http://www.tinyprints.com/" target="_blank"> Tiny Prints.</a><br />
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I nearly opted out of doing holiday cards this year until the amazing people at Tiny Prints slapped some sense into me and brought me back to the real world, where I absolutely cannot miss the experience of sending Christmas cards. And when Tiny Prints gives you cards, you don't say no!<br />
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Because of the big move over the holidays to the new house, we aren't decorating and we aren't gift giving, so it's not feeling very festive around here. Sending Christmas cards was the least I could do to get in the holiday spirit!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a16otFRDQ50/VITXTzlHNmI/AAAAAAAAFWY/CukcRPbBl8w/s1600/Screenshot%2B2014-12-07%2B16.31.22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a16otFRDQ50/VITXTzlHNmI/AAAAAAAAFWY/CukcRPbBl8w/s1600/Screenshot%2B2014-12-07%2B16.31.22.png" height="626" width="640" /></a></div>
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No special photoshoots this year, so we opted for a non-photo custom card in a luscious pale mint and gold foil effect. The matching address labels were also a welcome opportunity to share our upcoming new address with a "New Year, New Address" message,</div>
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If we had done a photocard, I absolutely love these options below.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l_X3weSg-eE/VITXv6YSkHI/AAAAAAAAFWg/8ZbA6WmScq0/s1600/tinyprints1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l_X3weSg-eE/VITXv6YSkHI/AAAAAAAAFWg/8ZbA6WmScq0/s1600/tinyprints1.jpg" height="450" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.tinyprints.com/product/58530/flat_holiday_photo_cards_picturesque_moment.html" target="_blank">Link</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.tinyprints.com/product/59458/flat_holiday_photo_cards_snow_happy.html" target="_blank">Link</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Js0-0X5Ydm8/VITXwM_rJbI/AAAAAAAAFWo/fEBfozwtENI/s1600/tinyprints3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Js0-0X5Ydm8/VITXwM_rJbI/AAAAAAAAFWo/fEBfozwtENI/s1600/tinyprints3.jpg" height="640" width="450" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.tinyprints.com/product/58483/flat_holiday_photo_cards_lush_holly.html" target="_blank">Link</a></div>
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What are you doing for holiday cards this year? When do you send them out?</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Thanks to Tiny Prints for providing me with my holiday cards this year. Despite being gifted by Tiny Prints, I do completely love their cards, and all opinions expressed are my own.</span></div>
<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-87867085387679646392014-11-11T12:09:00.002-08:002014-11-11T12:09:52.558-08:00The Best (FREE!) Holiday Printables Round UpEvery year I design my own gift tags and Christmas cards around now for the upcoming holiday season. This year, things are different because we aren't going to be home for Christmas and we also have a lot going on with the new house build. So, since physical and wrapped gifts will be few and far between, spending hours designing tags seems like a waste of time, especially when there are so many amazing options out there already. I love all of these below and I'm sure you will too. And you really can't beat the price ($0). And from one label/tag maker to another, a huge thank you to all who shared these. I know the hours that go into designing, so it's so appreciated to have them available gratis.<br />
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Perhaps my favourite of the bunch are the first in this round up. I love their simplicity yet the inclusion of typical christmas graphics like trees and reindeers. These are oh so similar to some I designed for myself last year (and similar to the cards I made), but I like these better, so I'll probably be using these this year! From the crafty Creative Index blog and can be found <a href="http://www.creativeindexblog.com/2013/11/freebie-printable-holiday-tags.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7YrbvufZ4aDDFWHEQbairlsZGTMVjvVmEqd18-E-dc09vbPYvOQhmZF-jbpE4phmWsHqXV8rmwitDLs7_xF9skTzLP3SR0M-3Kq9BtsqbuYPVYZrINaeM3Ba5QuVq95v14SuHiZfk8c/s1600/Screenshot+2014-11-11+13.53.02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7YrbvufZ4aDDFWHEQbairlsZGTMVjvVmEqd18-E-dc09vbPYvOQhmZF-jbpE4phmWsHqXV8rmwitDLs7_xF9skTzLP3SR0M-3Kq9BtsqbuYPVYZrINaeM3Ba5QuVq95v14SuHiZfk8c/s640/Screenshot+2014-11-11+13.53.02.png" width="576" /></a></div>
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How cute are these? Definitely perfect for a Kate Spade lover (or anyone who loves classic black, white and gold!). Download <a href="https://prettydarncute.com/2013/11/free-printable-gift-tags-for-the-2013-tomkat-studio-gift-guide/" target="_blank">here</a> from Pretty Darn Cute.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4G9oP_SU1hF2OxJ-Y0R6g5itF1GzZijzKnkJhGtXpCGuvm7t_YfIamikafwveUnolHgHwHi0d3jNxorog3c0WpLSshILI6ctcsSYgHOJTz7YDgTUfWm7IKxKhr82WlOduokly0Cy664E/s1600/GiftGuide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4G9oP_SU1hF2OxJ-Y0R6g5itF1GzZijzKnkJhGtXpCGuvm7t_YfIamikafwveUnolHgHwHi0d3jNxorog3c0WpLSshILI6ctcsSYgHOJTz7YDgTUfWm7IKxKhr82WlOduokly0Cy664E/s640/GiftGuide.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCswyMxehBMIG4fiw91fSs8bQBDE1MvuuAal-mdIPLHe6OYBSNPmtzNH3xoL6G1sO9Mm8cVEnZSwBhq96z_XiT_6ON6ZM4CvwLsklnwG7dWECGcA30necU_gAERKFzcvK6UbuIrYAAANc/s1600/GiftTags.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCswyMxehBMIG4fiw91fSs8bQBDE1MvuuAal-mdIPLHe6OYBSNPmtzNH3xoL6G1sO9Mm8cVEnZSwBhq96z_XiT_6ON6ZM4CvwLsklnwG7dWECGcA30necU_gAERKFzcvK6UbuIrYAAANc/s640/GiftTags.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lovely pastel tags below from Best Day Ever. Download <a href="http://www.bestdayever.fi/free-illustrated-gift-tags/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYjCrFggs-Nk5jHlMovbjWVqvlxjjtf-OotxYL_S5Hk9hxmrKqpXYt_blYHPaPoUpOkzWSRcHMKmmv-ikM_j6POcOhhFBPCROwPsE7_fzCur0qVLp5JXIZVIDcUISGoo7pWBExgOzeWw/s1600/holiday+gift+tag+printable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYjCrFggs-Nk5jHlMovbjWVqvlxjjtf-OotxYL_S5Hk9hxmrKqpXYt_blYHPaPoUpOkzWSRcHMKmmv-ikM_j6POcOhhFBPCROwPsE7_fzCur0qVLp5JXIZVIDcUISGoo7pWBExgOzeWw/s1600/holiday+gift+tag+printable.jpg" /></a></div>
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Love these kraft and ice blue printables by Catch My Party. Banner and labels and more can be found right <a href="http://catchmyparty.com/blog/free-christmas-party-printables-from-three-little-monkeys-studio" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim65kI365zwRzh4xD9T61A8vW7Z8R4A-ahjDYydLO94hMTpfn41XwnL5Ku4nPpYB_30sb5GegsbJ4FSqOr6QknZxAuBBVUz4YIn2YrSkpPPLlsJMKZN5v0N-ZL_8007SfYTdCeiJNcV_U/s1600/Banner-580x448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim65kI365zwRzh4xD9T61A8vW7Z8R4A-ahjDYydLO94hMTpfn41XwnL5Ku4nPpYB_30sb5GegsbJ4FSqOr6QknZxAuBBVUz4YIn2YrSkpPPLlsJMKZN5v0N-ZL_8007SfYTdCeiJNcV_U/s640/Banner-580x448.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9M2ipKYuSiAjPoebpVrE8rQw3ZisX-ul-3szzVmj-4iftZgAp0-5Gva8VfcONJXHWqh9QHLmSRUHmZ6wK1D3JppYXQlwDvKbyW6aB46AU_sj4x056dAvY_AdxjX8Mgal-2xuLPOqP-U/s1600/kraft+holiday+printable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9M2ipKYuSiAjPoebpVrE8rQw3ZisX-ul-3szzVmj-4iftZgAp0-5Gva8VfcONJXHWqh9QHLmSRUHmZ6wK1D3JppYXQlwDvKbyW6aB46AU_sj4x056dAvY_AdxjX8Mgal-2xuLPOqP-U/s640/kraft+holiday+printable.jpg" width="490" /></a></div>
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These kraft and white tags are also super cute and simple. Find <a href="http://www.muffingrayson.com/2012/12/day-1-printable-gift-tags-with-calligraphy/" target="_blank">here</a> from Muffin Grayson.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsbMTaHVnxQPCJqDBLU4TiqxhyDtWoLSitE7aH1AHsqp_jXLAYgjFMSlqKcvV9dm69DwuD8FiDDF4SrQoG_7mXPn4immeKDbMFvZq1D5_QFvtX31xC6RtcCC91nhx3fjIGVLWBK3eTEc/s1600/DSC_0416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsbMTaHVnxQPCJqDBLU4TiqxhyDtWoLSitE7aH1AHsqp_jXLAYgjFMSlqKcvV9dm69DwuD8FiDDF4SrQoG_7mXPn4immeKDbMFvZq1D5_QFvtX31xC6RtcCC91nhx3fjIGVLWBK3eTEc/s640/DSC_0416.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVK_1xNtx3kn9WjAxtxDb2ZFu13Ij6oeYAt-A4eP_drq2WCVWp5uQiLOKGryoUlQqJivq46ohK8plKFIn3edY689MOJsLUhv1GS6DzA0OOk4ZPQEbnpIocztCNaeShGUM4r6d9ZjKxIs/s1600/DSC_0461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVK_1xNtx3kn9WjAxtxDb2ZFu13Ij6oeYAt-A4eP_drq2WCVWp5uQiLOKGryoUlQqJivq46ohK8plKFIn3edY689MOJsLUhv1GS6DzA0OOk4ZPQEbnpIocztCNaeShGUM4r6d9ZjKxIs/s640/DSC_0461.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Love these hand drawn labels below. The come with a white background so print on any colour paper you like. Find them <a href="http://blog.heylook.fi/2011/12/freebies-hand-drawn-printable-gift-tags.html" target="_blank">here</a> from Hey Look. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichf1QDD9kZVRtX6dXGsn7jYHs7cIIlL9knYKrxPQFpMpcjt8Q0N1cfiYCXkN-pddsreTz9CoFgZTORZzOY7GYFKJwOjf7wiwg1YF04Zfb-gpX0P-QQxHBL0wmPRpCq6_s7-6zqM3sQ_g/s1600/holiday+natural+tags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichf1QDD9kZVRtX6dXGsn7jYHs7cIIlL9knYKrxPQFpMpcjt8Q0N1cfiYCXkN-pddsreTz9CoFgZTORZzOY7GYFKJwOjf7wiwg1YF04Zfb-gpX0P-QQxHBL0wmPRpCq6_s7-6zqM3sQ_g/s640/holiday+natural+tags.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you're going to be making some gifts this year, these are the tags for you! Hand lettered chalk art and FREE. So beautiful. Find them <a href="http://blog.worldlabel.com/2013/holiday-chalkboard-labels-by-lilyandval-com.html" target="_blank">here</a> on World Label.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNd8CNhMCv8uJTKU33V5tATyiw1a90LFSwOAkCkPMUsh6kmYjoAiW4ULC_wgnFFfA3m5oBAgRopDm8eJoOlcaNgHMHLKF6gb04yNI4fuZQieROcbEbwFVgx1NVvvmx9e25YtfwBYTOpRo/s1600/jar+tags.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNd8CNhMCv8uJTKU33V5tATyiw1a90LFSwOAkCkPMUsh6kmYjoAiW4ULC_wgnFFfA3m5oBAgRopDm8eJoOlcaNgHMHLKF6gb04yNI4fuZQieROcbEbwFVgx1NVvvmx9e25YtfwBYTOpRo/s1600/jar+tags.png" /></a></div>
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Lots of great kraft tags can be found over <a href="http://www.shanty-2-chic.com/2013/12/free-printable-christmas-tags-2.html" target="_blank">here</a> at Shanty 2 Chic. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9oEVNTUGiUQdtk1tuquSAYdURYRkeCIC4iyU518cuWOHCP6Xj5I9fiIwnEJPvy53eHgpNLMmxu4IAXxzBCmTjagR_GtFTcHRVuC80Z1xBAs2dXOFpHeR4GCpVBhfGU2VR993fln8CII/s1600/shanty+gift+tags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9oEVNTUGiUQdtk1tuquSAYdURYRkeCIC4iyU518cuWOHCP6Xj5I9fiIwnEJPvy53eHgpNLMmxu4IAXxzBCmTjagR_GtFTcHRVuC80Z1xBAs2dXOFpHeR4GCpVBhfGU2VR993fln8CII/s1600/shanty+gift+tags.jpg" /></a></div>
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What are you planning to do for gift tags this year? How often do you take advantage of free printables?</div>
<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-90809118585661831322014-11-09T08:35:00.000-08:002014-11-09T08:37:24.757-08:00Designing a Home | Balls to the (Dry)wallI can't believe I haven't shared more house build things on here. I guess it's just felt like such a long process and it's taken a while to really see the house take shape to a point where it feels real. Well, folks, it feels real! The drywall is in and as I was leaving the other day they were about to prime the walls - eeek!<br />
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I'm sure nothing will top finally getting to see the kitchen in - right now bare walls don't feel so homey. But it is still incredibly exciting to see.<br />
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Below is our front hallway - Kevin is standing in the laundry/craft room and the second opening is the door to the basement. If you turned right after the right hand wall, the hall would lead you to the powder room and mudroom (garage entry). Straight ahead is the great room with the living room on the left and kitchen/dining room to the right.<br />
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Don't mind the scaffolding, but below is the living room (I should have stepped back to get a wider shot). Out the back, we have our yard, then there will be fence, then a back lane, and then some "lane style"" homes. We liked the buffer that the back land provided, and if we want, we could put a gate in the back fence for future yacht storage (yeah right).</div>
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Without the scaffolding and prior to the fireplace hole being cut.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTw_1FNBfgL8vxN7MRv_0B82fWlZG5zIyZvrADWRO-tgqYX6Gilt6sTBAGlIZScDNXFTt542PLQQ9Z8Oy9KmUbkjT33sL8MLkRMRpoRUhtd8YOBl1_x0wZaf58RqYD37XwI_An1mdCUQ/s640/blogger-image-2027299838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTw_1FNBfgL8vxN7MRv_0B82fWlZG5zIyZvrADWRO-tgqYX6Gilt6sTBAGlIZScDNXFTt542PLQQ9Z8Oy9KmUbkjT33sL8MLkRMRpoRUhtd8YOBl1_x0wZaf58RqYD37XwI_An1mdCUQ/s640/blogger-image-2027299838.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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This view is from the other angle (I'm standing in between the kitchen/dining room for this shot.) As you can see, plenty of natural light which is exactly why we chose so many windows. We will have to wait and see how that plays out with heating and cooling in the home. </div>
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Below is the kitchen. The two small holes in the ceiling are our island pendants to give you a better idea of placement. This wall will have our stove centered on it and cabinetry on either side. To the right is the walk-through pantry (of which another blog post is to come) and on the 90 from there, is our fridge and pantry wall.</div>
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And here is the dining room. I was really really concerned about not having a window on the far right wall of the dining room or in the kitchen (since the sink is in the island, and the stove is on the wall, I wasn't sure where to put one without drastically changing the configuration). But, after seeing how much light the home gets, I'm not all that worried anymore. One day, I will do a post on things I learned while building a home and what I wish I had changed/done, but that may be a ways away.</div>
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Below is the fireplace with the beginning of the cut out for our 60 inch fireplace. Although our home came with a standard gas fireplace, we opted to omit it in favour of a modern ribbon fireplace (which will be electric). The gas version of the fireplace we wanted was atrociously expensive (many thousands) and we were more concerned about looks and ambience than the gas heat (which is expensive to run if you are looking to heat a room). How we are finishing the fireplace is still very much up in the air. We went to a tile store yesterday and there were so many options that I am beyond overwhelmed. I do still have my white stacked quartz that would be perfect BUT I don't have enough of it to cover the roughly 100 sq ft of the fireplace. Options and a request for your opinion to come in another post!</div>
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Look at how happy my hubby is. The cutest. Although this process has been stressful and exhausting at times, this man has kept me sane and his enthusiasm for this build might even surpass mine. Best of all, he loves (most) of my design choices which makes it that much easier. To help even things out a bit, he took the reigns on the exterior and fortunately we are both happy so far!</div>
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And there she is in her most recent state! We have hardiboard up to the part where it is finished, and will have acrylic stucco on the unfinished parts (and for my BC friends, stucco is THE main exterior finish of choice in Winnipeg, so although it might seem odd for us to be doing it, it makes sense regionally). And the door has yet to be painted (and because it's already freezing here, it won't be painted until, oh, next summer probably.)</div>
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Hope to post soon with our floor plan FINALLY. I really want to design the floor plan on floorplanner.com as opposed to just scanning the plans, so that I can show furniture layout, etc, but I just haven't found the time.</div>
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Ciao lovelies!</div>
Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-35906138352399938982014-11-02T08:50:00.003-08:002014-11-09T08:36:22.712-08:00La-La-La-LightingWho would've thought that of all the decisions we faced during our home build, that lighting would be the MOST difficult part? (Okay, maybe the <a href="http://thesocialhome.blogspot.ca/2014/07/designing-home-final-decisions-and.html" target="_blank">marble decision</a> was a tad harder but this is a close second).<br />
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I'm not sure exactly what it is. The fact that lighting can be trendy and go out of style quickly? That it can get really expensive and I'm incredibly indecisive? All of the above. I'm also not looovving any lighting out there. Nothing knocks my socks off and makes me think "I gotta have it". Not having that feeling, and needing to spend mucho denaro anyways, is a bummer.<br />
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I'm also completely confused about which metals I can use in an open space without looking clashy. I have never been a matchy-matchy decorator, but can I pull off black for the entry light, chrome and glass for the island pendants, and brushed gold for the dining room? In our great room, you will be able to see our pendants, dining room fixture, stairwell pendant, and a peek of the entry if you stand in the middle of the room. So what's a girl who doesn't want to match but doesn't want to clash to do?<br />
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Despite my lack of passionate love for lighting at the moment, I have compiled some that I like enough to consider.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NI0ksWcJXxs/VDF12G6pHyI/AAAAAAAAFPU/aonVXC_BU2M/s1600/Screenshot%2B2014-09-14%2B14.58.14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NI0ksWcJXxs/VDF12G6pHyI/AAAAAAAAFPU/aonVXC_BU2M/s1600/Screenshot%2B2014-09-14%2B14.58.14.png" height="640" width="586" /></a></div>
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This brushed gold chandy from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Capital-Lighting-4542BG-Pendant-Brushed/dp/B00KNAKVSI/ref=sr_1_44?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1414945425&sr=1-44" target="_blank">Capitol Lighting</a> (initially spotted on Joss and Main) is my top contender for the dining room. It's the only one I actually really kinda like. But does it play nice with the other options? Black/ORB in the entry and chrome glass pendants over the island? AND I just checked and it's now on sale at just $299 and it was over $450 the last time I checked. I think I have to order it! At that price, I will happily replace it if we ever go to sell and the lighting is too specific to my tastes and not the general public.</div>
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I also really love the lines of<a href="http://www.lampsplus.com/products/rhys-collection-26-inch-wide-wooden-bronze-chandelier__2r761.html" target="_blank"> this one</a> from Lamps Plus, but not loving the colour, so a major spray paint job would be involved. The lines also play well with my top dining room contender, so this could work in the stairwell in the great room (we have 18 ft vaulted ceilings and we need a large pendant that will be halfway up the stairs that will be visible from both living room/kitchen/dining room). It's only $299 so maybe not a big deal to spray it?</div>
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While not my favourite light in the existence of all lighting, this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Capital-Lighting-4456BG-000-Chandelier-Brushed/dp/B00KNAIQXA/ref=sr_1_7?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1414945413&sr=1-7" target="_blank">Capitol</a> lighting could work because it's from the same family as the dining room, and it substantial enough to go in such a large space. What are your thoughts? And it's $410 which is pretty good compared to the $1K plus options I've been looking at.</div>
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<a href="http://www.shadesoflight.com/clear-glass-globe-industrial_pendant.html" target="_blank">This</a> is what I'm loving for the island. It's from Shades of Light. Simple, clean, classic. But again, can I do chrome (actually this is polished nickel) and brushed gold in the same space? Or do I need to match them? Help! We are doing two pendants over the island instead of three so I cna't go for the mini pendants out there or they won't be to scale.</div>
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Have you ever had to pick out a bunch of lighting at one time, and do have any insight for me? I consider myself fairly well versed in what works and what doesn't for home decor, but I'm really stumped on this one!</div>
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Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-70872803092325685592014-08-16T09:29:00.002-07:002014-08-16T09:29:53.899-07:00The Perfect Home to RenovateEvery once in a while, on a lazy Saturday morning over a soy latte, I start thinking about where we would be had we not moved to Winnipeg and weren't building a new home. We had already started thinking about moving before we got transferred here, so it's likely we would have been on our way to a new-to-us home anyways. And so, I look around on MLS. I look and see what's out there. What might we have bought? Would we have stayed in our preferred area (where we lived before) in a new, smaller home, or would we have moved out further and to an older, larger home?<br />
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While going through our imaginary house-searching, I came across<a href="http://beta.realtor.ca/propertyDetails.aspx?PropertyId=14732926" target="_blank"> this gem</a>. It needs A LOT of work, but it doesn't take much imagination to see what potential it has. I can't even venture to say how much a total renovation would cost, but I feel like $200K would improve this home significantly. I would paint the exterior grey and white, practically gut the interior, paint out all the wood white, replace the kitchen, bathrooms, railings, and flooring - and I think it could be a pretty spectacular place.<br />
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This property checks off so many boxes for me:<br />
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<li>Interesting and unique exterior</li>
<li>Large, private, treed in lot</li>
<li>Open floor plan</li>
<li>Vaulted ceilings</li>
<li>Walk-out finished basement</li>
<li>4 bedrooms</li>
<li>Priced low enough to allow for substantial renos (under $550K)</li>
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Of course, there's no knowing what condition the house is in, what other things might need attention. Who knows if that fireplace is up to code or if the roof needs to be replaced. But, from a purely superficial standpoint for the purpose of dreaming, this baby is a winner. </div>
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I really love the way this house/garage is laid out. Although it's not huge, it definitely seems a tad more impressive laid out in such a way.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2bAZZrXqj8IS8nbfiuyMF6QifXjs_oeKVV-YEGX53Sye9E6LfDwysRqRw2Q0aL2-h9ha-cI9ImbqUiFPrXIRpML1hrOlLqtKzThXD9VT6dpVk-bXJiGnP23UfO1PuV65qMA6mOKIlX8/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.46.17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2bAZZrXqj8IS8nbfiuyMF6QifXjs_oeKVV-YEGX53Sye9E6LfDwysRqRw2Q0aL2-h9ha-cI9ImbqUiFPrXIRpML1hrOlLqtKzThXD9VT6dpVk-bXJiGnP23UfO1PuV65qMA6mOKIlX8/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.46.17.png" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just imagine white painted walls, a new fireplace and reclaimed wood floors. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0DxhWUoeRY7L6sO1eb_cc2RjhCLOedFXN7tLPI-OJwUUrz-lin6BuMm2fUNSDtuGoakyOCTCK0xA_NZrvdYO5qM1r9NUXg3E4Xg3nlVS59mrKfuif-2kd7o_GAuJOtNKOjYfVc8L5WEk/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.46.54.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0DxhWUoeRY7L6sO1eb_cc2RjhCLOedFXN7tLPI-OJwUUrz-lin6BuMm2fUNSDtuGoakyOCTCK0xA_NZrvdYO5qM1r9NUXg3E4Xg3nlVS59mrKfuif-2kd7o_GAuJOtNKOjYfVc8L5WEk/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.46.54.png" height="420" width="640" /></a></div>
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There isn't a ton of kitchen space to work with, but starting from scratch I would extend the kitchen all the way to the door frame, omit the half wall, and add an island facing the living room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvUWnW6aB90tPjNLPet9ja4eZFdQA5RZ_K_2RE2k1za7el0HatR46YZUleO15SqoM_2m_4AxvaRnWSetJbs-0QKvfQeR394a1ApNS0VaZ7ZvjTnxrgrR221AHKkoAM3P2jnD7z34WNbdE/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.47.03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvUWnW6aB90tPjNLPet9ja4eZFdQA5RZ_K_2RE2k1za7el0HatR46YZUleO15SqoM_2m_4AxvaRnWSetJbs-0QKvfQeR394a1ApNS0VaZ7ZvjTnxrgrR221AHKkoAM3P2jnD7z34WNbdE/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.47.03.png" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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The open concept and vaulted ceilings are what really do it for me. This is actually a very similar layout to the house we are building. My husband has already remarked that he doesn't know how easy it will be to go from a living space with vaulted ceilings to one without when we ever leave, so this type of layout would solve the problem.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBzYGcZxBT59rr4d7DuWkolwV4SIBXWcZGbqS0NAgIeiHDs7i62N-rmdVcr3jzP6nmgX3aI0uWu1m5r14eLsR8BG2qeEYO8sZg2YsXlFogZ5PFPG5RkLCjVPK9X4U9hDnJ-HQI7Skoqg/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.48.06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBzYGcZxBT59rr4d7DuWkolwV4SIBXWcZGbqS0NAgIeiHDs7i62N-rmdVcr3jzP6nmgX3aI0uWu1m5r14eLsR8BG2qeEYO8sZg2YsXlFogZ5PFPG5RkLCjVPK9X4U9hDnJ-HQI7Skoqg/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.48.06.png" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's really hard to tell how this master loft suite could be used based on the current situation, but there seems to be enough space to work with to do something amazing. I am not sure, but it looks like it could be missing an ensuite, which would be a very expensive addition. There are apparently two bedrooms on the main level, which I would consider joining to create a master suite, and then separating the loft into two bedrooms. One thing is for sure, those dark beams would really pop if the panelled walls were painted white.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgDjaF6wf9WB4kx9c4PFn13IDvsvQrSqRTXaKAkHneydcWxz-T0GGgmlus6EqWjBT1ZjfAI073pxiSH6sRoTUDyOy_eUnT1g3ZkUx-U5vaXfDylujOdMuqzF7ezC8eatIdnRgLBQxbrEk/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.48.34.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgDjaF6wf9WB4kx9c4PFn13IDvsvQrSqRTXaKAkHneydcWxz-T0GGgmlus6EqWjBT1ZjfAI073pxiSH6sRoTUDyOy_eUnT1g3ZkUx-U5vaXfDylujOdMuqzF7ezC8eatIdnRgLBQxbrEk/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.48.34.png" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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The backyard is full of potential with a great expansive space enclosed by shrubs and trees. Pool, anyone?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjea-6w1NF_j_EgfJSo1NvPFdm9iFEkg1j_AdRj0DlrvTGR4HYuqq3U9jgRDYiC37xiUX0Gv7a753OwY-l4jc163ORk06w9-5h8HjvgaMuH-b6GhbupRj5Xw_FTI5vtPU92z70slv3U0kM/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.51.41.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjea-6w1NF_j_EgfJSo1NvPFdm9iFEkg1j_AdRj0DlrvTGR4HYuqq3U9jgRDYiC37xiUX0Gv7a753OwY-l4jc163ORk06w9-5h8HjvgaMuH-b6GhbupRj5Xw_FTI5vtPU92z70slv3U0kM/s1600/Screenshot+2014-08-16+10.51.41.png" height="420" width="640" /></a></div>
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Even the entry is inviting, bordered by trees.</div>
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And now for some inspiration:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtVWqCPLPNuNlByrwDx19z0SbaSl56BBZ-Zws8mpeohIoUzoIG7BajDp9yipbbft4z85p85h-QhVsyNUoznWdEipxu51OudPs4kxPwR7MbagV-AAl2EVnVFEBDzOJ0f58zPuP7X15DNFM/s1600/lofted+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtVWqCPLPNuNlByrwDx19z0SbaSl56BBZ-Zws8mpeohIoUzoIG7BajDp9yipbbft4z85p85h-QhVsyNUoznWdEipxu51OudPs4kxPwR7MbagV-AAl2EVnVFEBDzOJ0f58zPuP7X15DNFM/s1600/lofted+kitchen.jpg" height="640" width="430" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=108176" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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I really like this modern/industrial take on painted wood panels.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7xqIPVgoWYy3-G93A7kWy5ybWTLkSiSiYZduY_lOwHkBjh9pV4ZgbR6XiJz55xJQl9B2InUOZVuNPG0Vs4UEDMGzC0KKeQoaWwtDG0ev0MadvoDMfy5sZvn0htZcUF1vBNvyJ6peLFQ/s1600/vaulted+living+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7xqIPVgoWYy3-G93A7kWy5ybWTLkSiSiYZduY_lOwHkBjh9pV4ZgbR6XiJz55xJQl9B2InUOZVuNPG0Vs4UEDMGzC0KKeQoaWwtDG0ev0MadvoDMfy5sZvn0htZcUF1vBNvyJ6peLFQ/s1600/vaulted+living+room.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://creativeho.me/2014/05/13/montecito-residence-photographer-jessica-comingore-architect-michael-eserts-eserts-studio-lo-love-white-and-wood-2/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Probably the easiest and most effective way of transforming the house in question - paint everything white.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYr1pgAHv3JW8rSLDj4LMCsGc_Wagqpoa0QNkPqe1MIcpBySNYZqjNTHo-WVOJZ5N8xc5ilSWLFc7lI6stAm2926ugYtla422iYs6MszGpj_Xtk1uIF3QrsF1dZemJL33GT16wADqHB18/s1600/vaultedceilings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYr1pgAHv3JW8rSLDj4LMCsGc_Wagqpoa0QNkPqe1MIcpBySNYZqjNTHo-WVOJZ5N8xc5ilSWLFc7lI6stAm2926ugYtla422iYs6MszGpj_Xtk1uIF3QrsF1dZemJL33GT16wADqHB18/s1600/vaultedceilings.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.refinery29.com/julie-carlson-remodelista#slide-7" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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And more dreamy white lofted spaces.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWAbAI11V21nqsr72tsq4Y7-AnhDz9294xjcZad4kEkh_aJrlFKv98r8gr-GK8FWVNR-MNUuJ8KH30j1a8loHfl-2W5DZicJM6oV4KVjwqCu4zGO7eeOVuz06jDlXU2nVl8jfytPsTLM/s1600/grey+ceilings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWAbAI11V21nqsr72tsq4Y7-AnhDz9294xjcZad4kEkh_aJrlFKv98r8gr-GK8FWVNR-MNUuJ8KH30j1a8loHfl-2W5DZicJM6oV4KVjwqCu4zGO7eeOVuz06jDlXU2nVl8jfytPsTLM/s1600/grey+ceilings.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.archdaily.com/220798/baixa-house-jose-adriao-arquitectos/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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Love this weathered grey look for the ceiling as an alternative to all white.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdZx5YVgV9aXO53gDZVrO52C02wVu7my1vMdBF1A_gSjeKMPE4fE_S-85CFJK292Lazv2_RYle2MtZoCOS2mfo4q39_WcuiyzbvkDPa8SqSFXOoSR3S6kWHYXjBZTfjBEdqn-YJAeHLw/s1600/kitchen+loft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdZx5YVgV9aXO53gDZVrO52C02wVu7my1vMdBF1A_gSjeKMPE4fE_S-85CFJK292Lazv2_RYle2MtZoCOS2mfo4q39_WcuiyzbvkDPa8SqSFXOoSR3S6kWHYXjBZTfjBEdqn-YJAeHLw/s1600/kitchen+loft.jpg" height="640" width="390" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=93965&currentPage=58&index=18&relatedPhotoId=" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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This is a great kitchen layout that could work for the house (scaled down in size).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1QZSE0aWZAuxdniZdSnzdByVeLGUTZaIDygELKQh77vJydplr2t5llOC_dUlwda3Ead_tsQTlKxZbL3byd45GvrGR-WvTUTbb-2vnCruMoNhZ5iJOcwLQHdKIbPCkrvCzJi9cJ9Z8Hk/s1600/greyexterior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1QZSE0aWZAuxdniZdSnzdByVeLGUTZaIDygELKQh77vJydplr2t5llOC_dUlwda3Ead_tsQTlKxZbL3byd45GvrGR-WvTUTbb-2vnCruMoNhZ5iJOcwLQHdKIbPCkrvCzJi9cJ9Z8Hk/s1600/greyexterior.jpg" height="510" width="640" /></a></div>
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Voa Houzz</div>
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Although different in style, I feel like grey paint with white trim and wood accents would really complement this house.</div>
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So what do you think? Would you ever tackle a big reno like the above, or would you rather move into a completely finished home? Unfortunately for me, my husband have completely different ideas of what we want in a home (he wants new new new, I want old and in need of some love!).Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-84775535047121532832014-07-26T14:29:00.000-07:002014-07-29T16:25:05.699-07:00Designing a Home | Kitchen SelectionsWhen it comes to finishes, it's probably no surprise that we've gone for a very white and neutral scheme. Here's a breakdown of our kitchen choices and some of our inspiration.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-67NVsov37_4/U9PwR5SKn0I/AAAAAAAAFHo/AtMVrWAL82U/s1600/Screenshot+2014-07-26+13.10.43.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-67NVsov37_4/U9PwR5SKn0I/AAAAAAAAFHo/AtMVrWAL82U/s1600/Screenshot+2014-07-26+13.10.43.png" /></a></div>
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After many sleepless nights and countless naysayers, we pulled the trigger on a Venatino marble surface for our 9 ft island. Not only am I over the moon about this decision, but hubby is more than on board! Once he saw the samples and the depth and life that marble has over other surfaces, he was sold. It is such a beautiful stone and I know it will be my favourite part of this house. Hubby keeps seeing marble surfaces on TV and in restos/cafes and is almost as excited as I am. The perimeter counters that flank the cooktop are a snow white quartz that will be durable and also a nice break between the marble island and the marble backsplash. </div>
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We chose maple wood cabinet doors painted in Alabaster (similar to the style above but a tad different and little bit creamier than this white) and charcoal vinyl plank floors. We chose a luxury vinyl plank (looks like laminate or wood planks but is made out of very durable man made material) because we have lived with both laminate and hardwood and wanted a more durable option. Our laminate floors were horrible, all three sets that we've had. Any amount of water made the seams swell, which means cleaning without water is a tedious task. Hardwood isn't great for our dogs (unless it's really rustic and grooved) because it's slippery for them and with the back issues we just didn't want to risk it. This vinyl plank is perfect - it's durable, waterproof, and if there ever were damage the individual planks can be replaced fairly easily. But best of all, there's a grippy texture that will help loads when our pups want to run around and play. It's about the same cost as laminate and some entry hardwoods at an upgrade cost to us of about $6500 from the standard lino sheet flooring that is included in the base price.</div>
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Our lighting is still in the works, but I'm hoping to go for this style of pendants over the island (This kitchen layout is VERY similar to ours) with 6 pot lights overhead and under cabinet lighting.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1BH9090lhA/U9Pyw9QaOWI/AAAAAAAAFH0/Q9ddcrunBlc/s1600/Original_Kitchen-Backsplashes-Lauren-Muse-White-Kitchen_s4x3_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1BH9090lhA/U9Pyw9QaOWI/AAAAAAAAFH0/Q9ddcrunBlc/s1600/Original_Kitchen-Backsplashes-Lauren-Muse-White-Kitchen_s4x3_lg.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://museinteriors.net/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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We also plan on having a built-in hood fan constructed after we move in (DIY project via father-in-law) but until then we have a sleek stainless steel hood fan that isn't bulky or obtrusive.</div>
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Hardware will be classic with small shiny chrome knobs on the doors and a classic chrome pulls on the drawers.</div>
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Backsplash will be done immediately after we move in because I am far too indecisive to make that decision now (because obviously I will change my mind). We are going to go for a marble tile (likely a 3 by 8), I just haven't decided whether I want subway or herringbone ala this dreamy kitchen.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4hthcj1xEYI/U9P0Isfg27I/AAAAAAAAFIE/q7KXJs8rAzI/s1600/Style+At+Home+Erins+Kitchen+8234_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4hthcj1xEYI/U9P0Isfg27I/AAAAAAAAFIE/q7KXJs8rAzI/s1600/Style+At+Home+Erins+Kitchen+8234_2.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://cromadesign.com/gallery/#/kingsway-house/" target="_blank">Via</a></div>
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We are very excited about the fridge, going with an all fridge, all freezer option. I'm sure it seems excessive as we are just two people, but if you saw our fridge/freezer you would understand. We spend well over $200 a week on produce alone, so you can only imagine how full our crispers must be. I also freeze loads of meals and ingredients since my vegan dishes are often far too large for one person. Freezer storage is my saviour and allows me to make healthy meal and snack choices when I don't have a lot of time. If there is one appliance we need to be above and beyond the everyday, it's the fridge.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bzxmPrmzDGM/U9PzK_XtsPI/AAAAAAAAFH8/jUTMQHsSCDY/s1600/fridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bzxmPrmzDGM/U9PzK_XtsPI/AAAAAAAAFH8/jUTMQHsSCDY/s1600/fridge.jpg" height="640" width="600" /></a></div>
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We thought long and hard about our stove top. In our rental house here we got to experience gas for the first time (a really nice GE profile gas range). I love the look of a gas range, I love the feeling of the flame...but, after a year with it I just didn't love the maintenance (funny, considering I'm willing to take on the maintenance of marble countertops!). I just found that under the grills got dirty every single day, and it wasn't an easy clean up. The little black disks where the burners are also got splattered/stained easily. It looks pretty from afar, but far from pretty up close. I also didn't see any difference in cooking time from any of the other stove tops I've used in the past. So we are going with a modern looking Samsung glass cooktop and I'm happy about the choice.</div>
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Our facet looks similar to this style, with an oversized, undermount rectangular sink.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hevT0fvzSDY/U9P_6c_-crI/AAAAAAAAFIU/QZWOs8YtlnM/s1600/Screenshot+2014-07-26+14.19.41.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hevT0fvzSDY/U9P_6c_-crI/AAAAAAAAFIU/QZWOs8YtlnM/s1600/Screenshot+2014-07-26+14.19.41.png" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Micro will be built in under the counter in the island along with the dishwasher. </div>
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And what about a pantry you ask? Being the pantry freak that I am, I have THREE pantries. We selected two wall pantries to flank either side of the fridge, and then we have a walk-through pantry connecting the kitchen to the mudroom (think butlers pantry style, although smaller and without cabinetry and a sink). I can't wait to replace the wire shelving in the walk-through with solid wood shelving, and to organize and label all of my jars. It might take me a week, but it will probably be one of my favourite things!</div>
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I will try and get a floor plan up so you can see everything in context - and will post about the other finishes sometime soon too! If you're building or re-decorating, how's it going?</div>
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Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-84508457565029983152014-07-16T19:50:00.000-07:002014-07-16T19:50:47.884-07:00Designing a Home | Final Decisions and Marble Countertops** skip to the bottom of this novel on our house build for photos and countertop info**<br />
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If I were to be compensated hourly for my in depth countertop research, well, let's just say I wouldn't need a job. My brain hurts. I'm not sure how much longer I can look at a screen and maintain my eyesight. I might be losing my sanity.<br />
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Yesterday marked the day where we had to have ALL of our house decisions in (well, except for the lighting, thank goodness). It feels like forever since we first wrote our contract on our house build (January - but then changed our lot and plan in early February). Here it is, mid- July, and we have a basement. It's seems at once both an incredibly slow process and a quick one. I started picking out my finishes last August before we even bought, and nearly a year later, here I was, still stumped by some decisions.<br />
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There are lot of factors for us to consider. How long we will be in this house (not long). Will everybody love our design choices for resale's sake (probably not). Will spending buckets more mean we will get buckets more (probably not). Do I want to make decisions based on the fact we may sell it in a few years and forgo my own desires (not really).<br />
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At the end of the day, we don't know what the future holds, what this market will be like, what the design trends will be, nor what people will like. We could be here for longer than 4 years, and in that case, it would be ashame to make decisions based on resale value. And really, if I were to look at 95% of the homes on MLS right now, none of them are my style. Which also means that my style may not please 95% of buyers. Oh well, c'est la vie. It's my house and I'll do what I want to (please make sure to sing that line in your head while reading or it comes across horribly bratty).<br />
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The plan is to design this home to our taste (I guess I should say MY taste because my amazing hubby is really letting me take the reigns) and not overspend. There are definitely things that I would do in our "forever" home that we are not doing with this home. But, things can always evolve. If we are in the house for a while, there's no saying we can't upgrade as we go. We are upgrading nearly every single thing from the base options, but for some we aren't going crazy. Our ensuite comes with a tiled soaker tub, a basic one-piece fibre glass shower, and a vanity with a single sink (base includes basic lino flooring, basic laminate countertops, etc). We are upgrading the cabinetry, the countertops, adding a dual sink (WHY on earth do builders think one sink in an ensuite with a large vanity makes any sense at all?), flooring, and tiled tub surround. To upgrade to a tiled frameless glass shower was going to be around $10,000. Yup. I also really wanted a free standing tub, but it's another item that I cut off the list as soon as we realized our upgrades were getting up there. Like, our upgrades cost almost as much as the lot. Yup. Crazy.<br />
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Okay, back to the countertop research. I *thought* I had my mind made up. I *thought* that I was going to be happy as pie with my stark white countertops and marble backsplash. And then as soon as it came time to schedule our design meeting to make the final choices, I started thinking about marble again. What if I just put in on the perimeter? Then I could do a white backsplash and still get some marble counter love. Or... what if I did it on the island? Oh my, that would be beautiful. That would just make the kitchen. It would just make the house. What if.<br />
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And so the wheels started turning again and I decided if I was going to forgo my hearts desire, I should at least really give it a fighting chance and look into it as best I could (again). This time, I supplemented my online research with a visit to a slab yard, and some rigorous sample testing. I could recap all of my marble tests in great detail, but there are so many available online, that if you are reading this through a google search, you've probably already found them. I can't add more to them, but I will summarize my findings.<br />
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First things first, slabs. I was hoping I wouldn't be as enamoured in person. Or that the slabs they had weren't pretty slabs. Or that something else would jump out at me. Nope. This trip to the quarry made me want marble even more. It is just so beautiful in person. Directly comparing them to the quartz slabs we found there would be unfair. Quartz is a great material (one that we will be using at least in part) but to compare a man made, uniform slab to a gazillion year old piece of stunning metamorphosed stone just cannot be done. Here is the Venatino Marble (priced at $104/sq foot + $8/sq ft for honing + installation which ends up totalling $160/sq ft when all is said and done).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiKXmLERnRgGCpwMm_jLwba8zQv5H2IKLBDyREJ0EbgtXtF9gfb4EbCD-Hd-Q2JSjOTPO1EB6BOgMroFpZQJtJfuD_HE_hQY4PYMEy14VV7STQApXOLTd1Z2YQvmIxjHXzDSK2Af2Sks/s640/blogger-image-2020662472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiKXmLERnRgGCpwMm_jLwba8zQv5H2IKLBDyREJ0EbgtXtF9gfb4EbCD-Hd-Q2JSjOTPO1EB6BOgMroFpZQJtJfuD_HE_hQY4PYMEy14VV7STQApXOLTd1Z2YQvmIxjHXzDSK2Af2Sks/s640/blogger-image-2020662472.jpg" /></a></div>
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As expected, the staff there tried their best to warn me about marble. As expected, I was told I would have to sign a waiver. Unexpectedly, they apparently have only ever had one customer choose marble for the kitchen, and apparently it has been replaced by them THREE times (cue the now-in-effect waiver). I found this incredibly hard to believe because I think they are the biggest (if not ONLY) supplier of stone countertops in the city. But then again, my all white, marble heaven of kitchens is something I have yet to see in my year of perusing the local listings on a weekly basis, so maybe it is true. They did show me some "quartzite" (in brackets because I've read in quite a few places that most Super White or White Fantasy is not quartzite but in fact dolomite marble - not quite as soft but still an etchable marble) that I thought was pretty, less the "eggs". Someone, somewhere (through all of the blogs and forums I've read) referred to the round blobs of veining in this stone as eggs because they are egg shaped, and now that is all I see. I knew I didn't like the veining. It's not subtle and pretty like marble. But I thought I would give it a fair consideration and took a sample too. Super White/ White Fantasy "Quartzite" $114/sq ft + installation.<br />
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Okay, now on to the testing. I did tests on unsealed samples, on polished and unpolished, and on freshly, crappily sealed samples (I didn't let it cure for 24 hours, I didn't use the best impregnators on the market, just a run of the mill Home Depot sealer which is not recommended).<br />
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These are my findings:<br />
1) Stains do not seem to be an issue in sealed marble. Sealing = no staining.<br />
2) Etches are very real. They happen.<br />
3) Etches can buffed out or visibly reduced by buffing out.<br />
4) Throwing sharp or heavy things at your marble will create dings and scratches (things like other sharp stone samples, a heavy knife, a cast iron pan, etc).<br />
5) If you want a "perfect" countertop that looks like the day you bought it, marble isn't it.<br />
6) Nothing compares to the depth, beauty and life of marble. Nothing.<br />
7) If you can embrace (not just accept) the perfect imperfections of marble's living surface, then you and marble are a match made in marble heaven<br />
8) Honed marble is infinitely better for kitchens because it doesn't show etching nearly as much<br />
9) Marble has been used as all sorts of surfaces from counters to tables to bars and stairs in Europe for centuries.<br />
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Other points to note.<br />
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<li>Dont' throw stuff at your counters, marble or not</li>
<li>Honed marble is one of the only surfaces you can actually "refinish". Like a solid wood floor needs refinishing every so often, marble counters can definitely benefit from a surface refresh (unless you really love holding on to every bit of patina you can, then don't do this). </li>
<li>Not only can marble be rehoned in place by a pro (rumour has it Martha has her gorgeous counters rehoned annually), but you can do quite a bit on your own. Some methods I tried on my samples (try at your own risk) are:</li>
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<li>Wiping vingar or lemon juice all over to blend in etches</li>
<li> Rubbing a thick mixture of baking soda and water into the stone</li>
<li> 600 grit wet sand paper</li>
<li>Comet and a Scotch Brite Scrubber</li>
<li>Haven't tried: professional marble etch remover</li>
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<li>Once I really understood the nature of marble, I felt a little less angst. It's very much like wood floors. There are lots of alternatives like laminate and vinyl plank that look SO much like wood, but nothing really really looks and feels like wood except wood. Like marble, wood isn't "perfect". It can scratch (I once slipped in stilettos on my parents freshly done wood floors and left a huge gauge) and it can stain and swell from water. But it also has a warmth to it. It looks comfortable and beautiful at the same time. The scratches give it life and a story.</li>
<li>Quartz CAN scratch and it CAN stain. It's not indestructible, just a lot more durable.</li>
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I can say now my only reservations are the chipping around the sink from pots and pans (we cook two separate dinners every single night, which means double the dishes, and double the wear), and potential resale issues (not everyone will embrace the patina as I will).</div>
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But, I just can't imagine anything else in my kitchen. I can't let go it. I've dreamt of marble counters since I was a young teen girl enamoured with home decor magazines.</div>
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I will embrace the patina. I will still do my best to prevent chips by being careful when doing dishes (I'm sure to start I will put a tea towel around the rim of the sink), and I am sure I will try to blend in some etching every once in a while if something really sticks out, but I'm going to love every minute with those counters.</div>
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And what if we go to sell in a few years? I will get our counters rehoned to minimize the inevitable scratches and etching, and will cross my fingers that someone out there will appreciate them as much as I do (having a mostly white house, I feel like similar minded people will be the only ones attracted to it, but who knows!). And if not, if it becomes a big issue and we need to replace the island, we can either try and sell the top, bring it with us to the next house, or (and probably best case scenario) have it cut down into a few smaller pieces we can use for bathroom vanities and side tables.</div>
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So really... what have I got to lose?</div>
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And, I can't write this post without referencing these two testimonial blog posts that really helped push me back towards my beloved marble. It really has been accounts like this that have made this experience that much more - so thank you!<br />
<a href="http://fortheloveofahouse.blogspot.ca/2013/03/marble.html" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px;" target="_blank"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />http://fortheloveofahouse.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.ca/2013/03/marble.<wbr></wbr>html</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/faiths-kitchen-renovation-how-we-finally-got-our-marble-countertops-renovation-diary-faiths-budget-luxe-kitchen-187401" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://www.thekitchn.com/<wbr></wbr>faiths-kitchen-renovation-how-<wbr></wbr>we-finally-got-our-marble-<wbr></wbr>countertops-renovation-diary-<wbr></wbr>faiths-budget-luxe-kitchen-<wbr></wbr>187401</a></div>
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Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-88928418949231281372014-06-15T14:04:00.000-07:002014-07-16T19:41:41.575-07:00Designing a Home | Ongoing white marble kitchen dilemma This is the post where I apologize for being the worst blogger ever, and beg for your help in making up my mind on certain house decisions. There are so. so. many. But I will start with a few. Thank you in advance.<br />
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<b><i>Kitchen</i></b><br />
By now you probably are aware of my love affair with white. Not many people here in Winnipeg get it, and many are worried that I'll tire of it. Nope. Nada. My admiration of a white kitchen started years ago - before we even bought our townhome in BC - and it has never faltered. So white on white on white it shall be! You may remember <a href="http://thesocialhome.blogspot.ca/2014/02/designing-home-and-white-marble.html" target="_blank">this post</a> on marble because of my serious marble obsession, and my sadness over the reality that it just might not be the best material to use if we plan on not staying in this house for a long time. So now I'm committed to quartz counters. But, here is my dilemma: do I do <b>solid white counters with a delicious marble backplash</b>, or do I do the <b>new <a href="http://calacatta.caesarstone.com/" target="_blank">Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo</a> (marble-looking) counters with a simple white subway tile backsplash</b>?<br />
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I am SO torn and every day I change my mind. I would say I am 50/50 right now and I need some tipping in one direction.<br />
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Here are my thoughts so far on the options:<br />
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<a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/kitchens/dream/classic-white-kitchen-1213#slide-1" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<i><b>White Counters/ Marble Backsplash</b></i><br />
<i>Pros</i> - Backsplash will make a nice statement and add some visual interest to the kitchen. This option also let's me bring in some natural stone into the kitchen design. The marble backsplash is the main appeal to this combo.<br />
<i>Cons - </i>Not excited or in love with white counters although I do like them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJfBbWB45TlbJE8QwSh5xE99aLVD3q7jHZn1GclMzyYLt3SF0035ER2rHiPLOh-MElQU-rjKuFy4f08NW0rm6PjG4SILMUjyFmljFbhwyGqpSJPGLD4BLNP-H7lD4q7bn8pzlZbQAiLI/s1600/calacatta+nuvo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJfBbWB45TlbJE8QwSh5xE99aLVD3q7jHZn1GclMzyYLt3SF0035ER2rHiPLOh-MElQU-rjKuFy4f08NW0rm6PjG4SILMUjyFmljFbhwyGqpSJPGLD4BLNP-H7lD4q7bn8pzlZbQAiLI/s1600/calacatta+nuvo.jpg" height="606" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><b>Marble-looking Counters/White Backsplash</b></i><br />
<b style="font-style: italic;">Pros - </b>More excited about this countertop option. It's a new product that looks so much more like marble than anything else out there on the market within our budget, and I spend most of my time in the kitchen looking at and using the counters, so it would be really nice to have pretty counters. Also, I like the fact that since there is some veining, any little crumb or drop on the counter during a party won't be screaming "I'm a dirty counter- clean me!" so hiding small messes is also a plus.<br />
<i>Cons</i> - Still not sure if we can get this new product in time for our build. Also not sure if it will be too creamy against the whites that we've chose for the cabinets.<br />
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Okay kids, this is where I need your help! Please try and convince me one way on another!Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-24063202117930906932014-06-15T13:37:00.003-07:002014-06-15T13:37:28.575-07:00HappeningsOh, hi.<br />
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Yup, I've fallen off the blogging bandwagon. Instagram and life have just slowly taken over. Truth is, I barely read the blogs I used to love anymore. My noon-ish start times at my past job in BC gave me the perfect schedule to get in some blog reading and writing over my morning latte. Now I'm lucky if I can squeeze in breakfast before I show up late to work (NOT a morning person whatsoever).<br />
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I do still try and catch up on my blog reader every couple of weeks and often think of things I would like to write about here, but it just never really happens. So, in a very truncated and random post, here are some recent updates.<br />
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<i><b>The House</b></i><br />
Its been a really long road to this stage, but we are ALMOST ready to dig. I think we are just waiting for the excavators but hoping to see a hole in the ground this coming week. Building a home has been mucho stressful. There are so many little details, so many upgrades, lots of expenses, and loads of unknowns. Because we customized one of the builder's standard plans, we have no idea what the home will actually feel like once built. Will the island (which we flipped) feel odd in the space? Will the kitchen/dining room flow well? Is my front laundry/craft room combo instead of a den going to work? Will the exterior colours look good together? It's enough to sometimes make me question why, but we are still really excited and can't wait to start seeing our plans come to life. It's been a loong time in the making. Hoping to be in within 6 - 9 months, but nothing seems to be certain at this point (I will post our floor plans and other details sometime in the future).<br />
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<i><b>Winnipeg</b></i><br />
We just passed our one year anniversary here which seems absolutely bonkers. How we've lived here a year is just beyond crazy! Happy to say we survived the worst winter in nearly 100 years, which made me question many times why this piece of the continent is even considered habitable. But we are here. We survived. The really awesome, consistent summer weather stretch has yet to grace us, but we have had some nice and warm weeks scattered with a couple cooler/rainy days keeping everything lush and green. Winnipeg feels more like home now. Or more like home <i>for now</i>. It seems to be an ongoing Winnipeg sentiment to both love and hate this city at once. And I get it. I totally get it. It has so much potential, so much to offer, yet many frustrations at the same time. We continue to do our best at exploring all Winnipeg has to offer and look forward to weekends at the lake and adventures in the city. I am trying my best to realize that the pace of growth here will never be the same as Vancouver, that infrastructure takes time and money, and that despite its blemishes and problems, Winnipeg still has so much to offer. I love exploring the boutique cafes, hipster dining spots and the historic Exchange District.<br />
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<i><b>Us</b></i><br />
We just moved. To another interim rental. This time we left a beautiful, new house for a very basic apartment. The move was horrendous. So. Much. Work. We rented a POD to store stuff until the build is ready, and a U-haul for the rest. Insert copiuos amounts of regret. We worked for hours on end hauling bins and furniture to our second floor apartment and I was sore and exhausted for days. Definitely hiring movers for our next move, only 2 kms from where we are now. The apartment is fine. It was pretty much our only option that allowed both two pets AND month to month meaning we will have flexibiility for when ourr house is ready. Why we moved? Long story short we couldn't commit to another one year lease at the house because of our new build - so here we are. Best part? I can walk to work. In 2 minutes and 25 seconds. Best thing ever.</div>
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<i><b>Other news</b></i><br />
I spent my pre-birthday weekend with my best friend in Toronto and absolutely fell in love with the city. I've been there a million times as my mom's family is from there, but this time I got to see it from a new perspective. Turning 30 ain't so bad ;) Looking forward to heading home in a couple of weeks and watching one of the most beautiful souls I know get married, spending time with family and friends, and soaking up as much of beautiful British Columbia as I can while I'm there.<br />
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Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-74211069650229894022014-04-12T08:28:00.000-07:002014-04-12T08:28:01.792-07:00Love it? Large Scale Tile BacksplashSmall square mosaic. Matchstick. 3 by 6. Herringbone. Slab. Subway.<br />
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Backsplash options are endless, and extend beyond just tile.<br />
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But I'm hear to talk about a backsplash option I never really thought of until recently, and I just can't seem to get it out of my head.<br />
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Large scale tile. 12" by 24" tiles (or bigger). Love it. It helps achieve that full slab backsplash that is oh so pricey, for a lot less dough. Not to mention, it's got to be easier to install and requires less grout than tiny mosaic tile.<br />
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So what are your thoughts? Love it? Not so much?</div>
<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4057460605407101148.post-74620802945101038322014-03-26T19:39:00.002-07:002014-03-26T19:39:29.144-07:00NEW Marble Countertop Alternatives<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In my never ending quest for the perfect countertop, I've researched nearly every option on the market. I was willing to take the plunge and just baby the heck out of that marble, but hubby is not as keen. In fact, he is adamantly against it. Considering I'm making 90% of the decisions for this house, I do feel obligated to let him chime in when he feels the need, especially considering he cooks everyday and is about as messy of cooks as they come.<br />
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My fear of choosing our number one contender, quartz, has been that sometime in the near future, possibly mere months after moving into our new home, a new product will come out that actually does a better job of mimicking the natural veining of the white marble I oh so yearn for. I can't imagine spending $6000+ on countertops that I won't love, so to help quell this horrible feeling in my gut I scoured the internet some more.<br />
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What did I come up with? Two options that have yet to penetrate the blog universe in a big way... but they will. It's a coming!<br />
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First up (and my favourite) is <b>porcelain slab</b>. This isn't your Home Depot porcelain tile porcelain. This is a solid slab of absolutely stunning and durable porcelain that completely mimics the look of marble, in my opinion.<br />
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How much do you love this? I was actually first introduced to this product from a kitchen designer in Winnipeg on Instagram - she installed the first ever porcelain countertop in the city (see her original post <a href="http://instagram.com/p/gbuehKv2nd/" target="_blank">here</a>) The catch for having the loveliness of marble with the durability of porcelain? Cost. The aforementioned countertop cost $11,000 vs. the $7000 quote for quartz.<br />
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That said, if it's in your budget, or you were going to splurge on Calacatta or a higher end marble, this could be a fantastic alternative for you! Read more on porcelain slab <a href="http://www.forresidentialpros.com/article/11289660/porcelain-slab-countertops-offer-new-design-options" target="_blank">here</a> and see the source for the Instagram slab <a href="http://www.granitifiandre.com/porcelain-tile/technical-ceramic/marmi-maximum/calacatta-maximum/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Next up addresses my fear mentioned earlier. I just had a feeling it was going to happen, and it is. Caesarstone Australia is releasing a stunning new marble-look countertop that is the closest look to marble that a quartz ever did see. It's called <a href="http://www.caesarstone.com.au/Colours/Colour-Detail.aspx?Collection=5131-Calacatta%20Nuvo%E2%84%A2" target="_blank"><b>Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo</b></a>. The porcelain slab still takes the cake for realism in my books, but Caesarstone is sure to be a more affordable option.<br />
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It has such a nice look to it and makes choosing quartz over marble not that much of an aesthetic sacrifice. The problem? It's not coming out in Aus until this July, and as far as I can tell from my googling, it's not set for US launch until 2015 (who knows when), which means it probably won't be in Canada, or more specifically Winnipeg, ohhh, until maybe 2020? Okay I kid, but it sure takes forever for us to get "new" releases up north.<br />
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What this does tell me, though, is that "IT" is coming. The "it" being the best of both worlds - a countertop with the durability and (somewhat) affordability of quartz that replicates the veining and soft depth of real marble. It might take a few more years, but it's on the way! This makes me incredibly excited - but also a little disheartened, because this house that we are building is sure to miss the boat. But this does provide hope for the future (or for those in Australia or those with a bigger budget than ours).<br />
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What will we end up doing? Now, I'm confused more than ever. Thank goodness we still have a few months to decide.<br />
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Had you heard of these options before or know of any others? White quartzite is one that has been suggested, but I know it's not as readily available as other products.<br />
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<br />Jennifer Opsahlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03470632120877499280noreply@blogger.com7