This is my first piece updated with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. The paint colors are Creamy and French Grey. I learned a fun technique where I can cover this with dark stain and clear stain, and then add a gorgeous gold leaf buff over. Let's see how it comes out.

Annie Sloan Workshop!! First Timer

I was thrilled to attend my first Annie Sloan Chalk Paint workshop. I will post pictures of some of the paint samples I created during the workshop. We learned a few techniques to try out. It was held in this adorable shop in town. The women who run the shop were great! I will post some pictures and try to catch up on things! It's been a while since I posted anything~

Staining is not fun

I haven't the faintest idea what I am doing here. I see and read all the blogs with the latest updates as to "how to paint furniture". Ok, how do you dispose of the oil base chemical? The can says it could ignite. Hmmmm, I will have to do more research. One blog mentions "use a brush", another mentions "use a clean cloth". Well, I experimented with spray paint and dark (yuk) walnut stain. The bloggers (no offense) just make it look SO EASY!!

I guess this is how where I teach myself and learn the technique. I sooooo wanted to attend the US Annie Sloan Workshop :( maybe next year

Shopping for flowers

My front porch and yard are in need of some serious help. We browsed at the local greenhouse this past week. I was thinking of different containers I could create. The porch would look fine with some cute pillows, an American flag, gorgeous containers near the door, and a nice door mat. Maybe put some hanging plants or window boxes as well. I tend to take forever in making a decision about some things. Anyway, here are some pretty shots of the flowers we looked at.

Sneak Peek

My daughter and I like to pop in and peek at all the new construction being built in my neighborhood. Here our tract builder is using a diagonal,white subway tile in the kitchen, and large workspace island!!

Nice Pantry! :) I think this home may have a contract on it. They are selling out fast!

I'm back

I've been gone for a few months, however, I am back to add some items of interest. I've visited my favorite local furniture store Celadon. Here are some gorgeous inspirational items I found in town.

What a selection :) Love it!

I want this

A bumped into this gorgeous piece at a boutique. I have a similiar bureau I am thinking of painting with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. We shall see. As usual, I have a million different projects that are not completed.

My girl's art

Age 7

On the lookout

Source: imgfave.com via CLC on Pinterest

For this ladder.

I am evaulating my decorating style or tastes. I have always been eclectic. However, I seem to be narrowing down my preferences.

Vintage, and French Decor is a favorite of mine!

Game Table

Well, just for the record, my dear hubby lost his job. So there goes my decorating budget for the time being. Which has led me to drastic measures. I am thrifting. I went to this fun thrift store today, and could not believe how crowded it was. I met this fun chick who was shopping for brass candelsticks only. She had a pile of brass candelsticks all shapes and sizes. I remembered back to my first pair of brass candlesticks (real brass of course). I purchased at an amazing antique store in Ipswich Ma. Anyway, I am getting off topic.  I am guessing brass is back in style again?


Today, I spotted this table. A game table. Games, lots of games, go on at my house.  It opened up to a square shape. I totally could picture it painted. I wanted to use it as an end table in my bedroom instead. I knew my hubby would be upset. They wanted $100 for it. I would have paid less.

So, I left her sitting there. I showed my hubby the photo, and he actually "liked" it. Really??  He dislikes anything old, or antiquey looking. He must have lost his mind temorarily due to his job loss. He actually told me I can go back and get it. Hmmmm. I am over it now. It might look too old, but then again if I painted it with Annie Sloan Chalk paint, I know it would be drab to fab immediately.


Speaking of candle sticks:

I ventured into this fun shabby antique store as well. Check out the silver candle sticks. How cool!

Ben Moore Trend for 2012

Source: benjaminmoore.com via CLC on Pinterest

Source: google.com via CLC on Pinterest

Benjamin Moore's latest color trends. Here is one that stood out to me, although I am not sure what to think of if quite yet.

This is the color of the year:
Wythe Blue HC-143

Source: google.com via CLC on Pinterest

Goodbye RED forever

Ahhh, so happy the red is now white.

This focal point (fireplace) needs to have something dramatic above it!!  Something gorgeous. My hubby wants to put a giant flat screen there instead. I want a piece of art or a giant french style mirror. I have this feeling that he will win this battle. IF hubby insists, then the flat screen will come complete with a custom frame around it.

PS. Red didn't look that terrible, the color isn't my taste. I prefer clean white over a bold bright color. Unless, it's lime or blue.