A fresh start.

Well, we have been going through a few ups and downs around here, but we've decided that we're just going to look at it as a chance for a fresh start.

I know blogging has been a part of this funk for me.  I haven't really blogged recently (sorry)... I just haven't known what to blog about with all this going on.  BUT, like the rest of the things that have had a bit of a downtime recently, I'm enacting a "fresh start" with it.  So... here goes. :)

Some positive things have been happening lately despite the negative mentioned before, and I can't wait to share more of that with you.  I created and joined a weight loss competition called Reclaiming The Body on Ravelry.  I've lost 3 lbs and fit into a pair of jeans I haven't fit in for quite some time.  

I have also been doing some Homestead Dreaming, and have started a blog to collect my inspirations and plans for my "someday  homestead."  You can see the Homestead Dreaming blog here.

I have also been doing a lot of work around the house to bring a "fresh start" to my space.  I repainted the mantle my great, great grandfather built so that it can be displayed properly, and I repainted our coffee table to match as well.  I will get photos of these items soon to share!

In addition to all of that, I have been working on revamping things for the kids as well.  I started with the play kitchen re-do, and then thought I would work on a baby bed for them to play with.  I began the project with an old, dirty, scratched up baby bed with plastic "ribbon" and a plastic bear-liner.   It just looked ratty with the "ribbon" falling off, a lot of scuffs in the paint, etc.  You can't tell how bad it was in the photos below but in truth, it looked like it was <thisclose> to the garbage bin.

(Note our product models: Princess is above, and of course, that's Anna below)

I decided it was time for a makeover.

The first thing I did was rip off all the plastic ribbon and lining.  Then I gave it a good wipe down, reinforced the sides with a staple gun, and gave it a fresh coat of white paint.  I found a curtain in my fabric stash with a lovely ruffle along the bottom, complete with a lace crochet edging.  I thought it would give a sort-of timeless quality to the baby bed.  I added a moon and star motif, and painted "Sweet Dreams" on the headboard. 

Finally, I sewed up a custom-sized mattress for the doll-bed with a sheet set made from the panel part of the curtains.  Then I used a scrap piece of the ruffle and lace to make a matching pillow.

I was really trying to create an heirloom-quality piece for Anna and Abbi to play with, that I might even be able to hand down to my grand-babies someday.   What do you think?

Comments

[crystal]

very cute. great job

[Mandy]

That's just beautiful Kristen! You've inspired me to take a second look at a baby bed in Tessa's room that hasn't had a makeover since *I* was a baby. Very nice!

[Laurie - Old School Acres]

I've been thinking of you. I hope you can overcome the "funk." xoxo

That bed is absolutely precious.

[Eileen]

What a wonderful update to the cradle. My dad made a colonial style cradle for me when my daughter was born. She was too active to ever use it, but now it is a wonderful thing just to have, but it does need some linens and accessories.

You aren't alone on the "funk" walk. I too am trying to figure out what I want to do when I grow up. Too bad work and life keep getting in the way.

[Renell]

That brings back baby doll memories....lol, we had the same one for our dd. You made it look very nice, what a great bed for your dd's to have for a long time to come!! Love the little lace on everything!

[Mary]

I have no doubt that you've created an heirloom. Beautiful!

[Linda]

That is so cute! Nice work!

[Gina]

Your not alone. We all have those days..weeks like that. Sounds like your doing the best thing about it, positive thinking and actions.
This might brighten a little of your day. You won the fabric give away on my blog! I just need your mailing address and it will be on it's way.
HUGS to You...

[Robyn]

It is really lovely!

[Kathy K]

I hope that you can overcome the challenges that you are facing. The baby doll bed is just adorable. I miss the "baby doll years" as my only girl is almost 15 now. Enjoy it.

[Beccanae]

So beautiful. You are very talented!

[Lauri]

Oh my gosh, Kristin! It's absolutely gorgeous!
It will definitely be around for many, many years to come!

[Sarah @ Thriftydecorchick]

That is just adorable! How sweet.