August 30, 2012

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.--Matthew 6:19

It seems like forever that I have hated our bedroom furniture.  I know hate is a little extreme, but we bought it over ten years ago when it was the rage to have everything oak match: headboard and dressers.  It is heavy duty, quality furniture that cost a pretty penny.  There was no way I could justify paying for a new bedroom set.  Since our whole not moving decision, I have been in this constant effort to simplify and minimize.  Reading Almost Amish isn't helping either.  We have so much and can make do with so much less. 

The fact that I went to a friend's house on Friday for a Treasure swap, was yet again a reminder of our abundant blessings. There was even more great stuff to look through and choose from than the last time I went-- except during the prayer before we began I was moved by something she said about how blessed we are. As I looked around, although there was much, I decided to try to keep it to what we really needed.  Truth be told: we don't need a whole lot.

So, with that in mind, I decided to make use of what I had and give our bedroom furniture a little face lift.  After browsing this store yet again, I purchased what I needed, came home and got to work.  As fate would have it, the baby went down for her nap  easily and minutes into the beginning of my painting adventure, Ernie called to tell me he was on his way home. When he heard what I was up to, I heard a pause and maybe a sigh but he didn't complain.

When he came home, he picked up the kids from school, took them to the dentist and picked up dinner because he was loving the transformation taking place.  In a total of six hours, I redid two pieces, cleaned out all our drawers and painted and reupholstered (Ernie and his staple gun worked their magic) the chair.  Not bad for a day's work!!

The second piece:

While the paint may be a little pricey--missing all the steps of prep work was worth it to me.  I purchased a clear wax as well as a dark one, because I knew I wanted them a little antique-ish.  With three large windows with white shutters and crown molding, I didn't want a bright white, flat paint.  We are very happy with the results!

For the chair redo.  We just used what we had on hand fabric wise and it works well enough for now.  I would like to paint the desk and then paint the chair a color that pops, but I have to be realistic.  The bedspread won't last forever, so I need something very versatile.  Old white works. And as easy as it was, not every day is filled with the uninterrupted time with dad home with the kids.  And  my wrist, arms and legs may not be sore today from all the abuse work.
One last look.

Now I am going to be on the look out for a hope chest.  My mom had one and I would love one at the foot of our bed to hold some of my treasures--painting it may or may not be on the agenda as well. Yesterday was just one of those days that I was filled with extreme gratitude for our resources, our space, and our new furniture!!