Look at my baby birds. There are four of them. Momma bird (or another Momma bird) always makes a nest somewhere on my patio area. This year they chose the wreath. I snapped a quick photo just as mom left the nest. 
Baby Birds
Thanks SP!
Thank you Secret Pal for my June Gift. It was Summer fun. I've got lots of little toys for the beach and the pool and the most awesome beach towel. Look at the ladybugs. Too cute! Thanks! :)
I only did ONE yard sale this weekend. It was a busy weekend so I couldn't do my usual fun Saturday Mornings. I stopped by this one on the way home from a meeting (can you believe a meeting on a Saturday? Yeah, me too!) Anyway, the yardsale was still going on. Check out Giorgia's Enchanted Garden. Pirate's Not Happy
Pirate is not happy! He is off to the vet to get his teeth cleaned. No food and No water since 8 last night. Boy, he was mad this morning, he wouldn't even let me brush his hair. I'm nervous, I hope all goes well. It's the whole anesthesia thing that worries me. You know how it is with the smaller pets. Sad. He better have some pearly whites when I see him a 4!!! :)
***UPDATE***
Pirate is out of surgery and is doing fine. He had a massive infection and they had to take out 6 teeth. Poor Baby. Good thing he isn't into chewing food. Pirate has a bad habit of just swallowing his food. I believe he gets no enjoyment out of it what so ever...he eats only to function. Gee, I wish that would rub off on me!
Pronunciation
I've been asked this question again so I thought I would repost...
Just an FYI if anyone was unsure. Giorgia Danette is pronounced Georgia Dannay. (Please DO NOT COMMENT that I pronounce my/or my daughters middle name INCORRECTLY! YOU THINK YOU ARE BEING HELPFUL BUT YOU ARE NOT! I PLAN TO CONTINUE PRONOUCING IT THE WAY I HAVE FOR 38 YEARS) Sorry, I've been bombarded with rude emails. Anyway, I have always loved the name Georgia/Giorgia and wanted a name where I loved the nickname. I am hoping that the nickname with either be Gigi or Giorgi. I wanted to give my daughter a special piece of me, so I chose my middle name, Danette, for her first middle name. My mother picked that out for me and I want to pass it on. I am thinking about keeping my daughters Chinese name as her second middle name. And of course, since I am single, my daughter will then take my last name, which obviously comes from my father.
I am still contemplating, maybe, not using my daughters Chinese name as her second middle name. I realize that there is a lot of controversy about not keeping my daughters Chinese name, but have not totally decided yet.
I am still contemplating, maybe, not using my daughters Chinese name as her second middle name. I realize that there is a lot of controversy about not keeping my daughters Chinese name, but have not totally decided yet.
Bad thing about Blogs
The Bad thing about Blogs is that you can't post some of your cute little shopping finds because you bought the same exact things for your Secret Pal! I feel like I am shopping for twins! Know what I mean???
So, when my identity is revealed, I will be able to share all of my other cute finds. So for now I just have to settle with the delivery I got today at work. I posted on Giorgia's Enchanted Garden a Garden Hideaway that I purchased and it's in. I can't wait to go home and set it up. I have to say...it's bigger than I expected. (That never happens).
So, when my identity is revealed, I will be able to share all of my other cute finds. So for now I just have to settle with the delivery I got today at work. I posted on Giorgia's Enchanted Garden a Garden Hideaway that I purchased and it's in. I can't wait to go home and set it up. I have to say...it's bigger than I expected. (That never happens).
Happy Monday
I hope it's a Happy Monday for you too! I just found out that my brother is moving back home from Tampa. This officially means that I will have family closer than 1,000 miles away. Yippee! He'll be here on Wednesday. Even though my mom and dad are not here (in Key West & The Villages, Florida), my honorary second family will alway be close. The Phillilps/Horsemans are the best and Giorgia will be lucky to have not one but 2 familys here.
Oh, and my brother has a little yorkie, Codi who is 3 lbs. He is just the cutest. Pirate(7 lbs) will now have a little friend, more his size, to play with once in a while and here is the great news that I have yet to spring on my brother.....
I have been totally stressed about who will watch Pirate when I'm in China. I am very overprotective about Pirate. For all of my family and friends whom I love dearly and would let them watch Giorgia anytime...I can't say the same about them watching Pirate. Little dogs are sneaky and they can scoot out of any door in the blink of an eye and (sorry Pirate) but you're not smart enough to find your way home. Plus, you're so darn cute, someone is going to scoop you up and make you theirs. I would just DIE! My brother, I trust with my dog!!! (I trust my mom but she is in Key West and I won't send Pirate on a plane without me!) I am sure he'll do it. I'll give him some time to settle in before I hit him with this one! :) Wish me luck!
Oh, and my brother has a little yorkie, Codi who is 3 lbs. He is just the cutest. Pirate(7 lbs) will now have a little friend, more his size, to play with once in a while and here is the great news that I have yet to spring on my brother.....
I have been totally stressed about who will watch Pirate when I'm in China. I am very overprotective about Pirate. For all of my family and friends whom I love dearly and would let them watch Giorgia anytime...I can't say the same about them watching Pirate. Little dogs are sneaky and they can scoot out of any door in the blink of an eye and (sorry Pirate) but you're not smart enough to find your way home. Plus, you're so darn cute, someone is going to scoop you up and make you theirs. I would just DIE! My brother, I trust with my dog!!! (I trust my mom but she is in Key West and I won't send Pirate on a plane without me!) I am sure he'll do it. I'll give him some time to settle in before I hit him with this one! :) Wish me luck!
Also did some yardsales this weekend. If you want to check out my finds, click Giorgia's Enchanted Garden. :) Have a great week!
A Princess in Distress
I saw this article in People Magazine and thought I would share it with you.
_ 
"A princess under pressure? A dynasty on the brink of extinction? No, not the Windsors; the royals of Japan. The question facing the Japanese imperial family: Is it time to let a female ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne? The press has been having a field day reporting that Crown Princess Masako--wife of Crown Prince Naruhito--is despondent over restraints of imperial life and her inability to bear a male heir. To add to her woes was the Feb. 7 announcement that her sister-in-law Princess Kiko, 39, is pregnant. If it’s a boy, he would be the first heir to the throne born since 1965. Masako’s daughter Aiko, 4, doesn’t count. Two years ago Masako, 42, under relentless pressure to produce a boy, withdrew from public life amid rumors of a nervous disorder. Called a "caged bird" in the media, she rarely appears in public and now is reportedly so distraught she is skipping important tea ceremonies with her mother-in-law, Empress Michiko, and Kiko. Only time will tell whether Kiko is having a boy, but now some politicians are saying it’s time to change the law. Not likely, says Judy Wade..."
from a People Magazine Article
Retail Therapy Blog
Well, I've been thinking. I am sure some people aren't really into the whole yard sale and bargain shopping thing so I decided I would do a separate blog to put all of my latest treasures. So check out Giorgia Enchanted Garden. :)
Hmmm...not sure I like!
Which Grey's Anatomy Character Are You?
You are Meredith Grey. You relate easily to people, though you have a hard time letting people in, and though are a an amazing person, you have a hard time seeing that yourself
Take this quiz!
OMG! What have I done....
...I highlighted my hair! The problem with the last statement is "I". The last two times I did it, I left it on for 20 minutes and you could barely see it, so, I left it on 25 minutes this time!!! What the hell happened in that additional 5 minutes I'll never know. I will try to get a photo and post it. Thankfully it's only hair color and not a bad cut. I can always dye it for a quick fix. Don't know what I'll do...
Okay, so it doesn't look too bad in a photo. Why is that??? Yeah, but I got the giggles from a co-worker!! I have this pasty white/pink/red toned skin with platinum highlights! It just doesn't work with my skin tone, not even a little. Maybe I will find a true picture to capture the tragedy! :(
Update: I have been told that it doesn't look that bad and that it will mellow out after a day or two. So, I guess I will hold off on the brown hair dye...for today. :(
More Yard Sales
Well, I found some more Disney Movies this weekend. $1 each and two of them still had their shrink wrap on them...crazy! Anyway, I still haven't been successful at finding Mulan but I think that is the one the I will want on DVD instead of VHS. Hmmm. I'll keep trying. :)
There is Aladdin-King of Thieves, The Return of Jafar, The Prince of Egypt, Sound of Music, Magic Voyage, and Sing along songs. I also got (not pictured) 2 Sesame Street Videos: The Alphabet Jungle Game and The Great Numbers Game, and Elmo's World: Springtime Fun, Wakeup with Elmo, Birthdays*Games*and More.
I also found the cutest ladybug blanket! It is actually cuter in person! 
Just a few of the outfits that I found. (All $1 or Less)
Travel Tips
Air Freshener (the pump type)!!! The diapers can really stink up a hotel room & you never know who will be ahead of you in the airplane bathroom!Take pens on the plane. Lots of forms to fill out prior to landing.
Aerosol cans are prohibited on all flights in China - none in check-in or carry-on.
Travel Alarm Clock. White Swan doesn't have clocks in the rooms.
Gift Bags, Tissue Paper & Tape. Do not wrap anything, the airport could make you unwrap.
Ziploc Bags (quart & gallon sizes). Awesome for so many things!
Toiletries - ziploc all toiletries, lotions, etc. "just in case". Air pressure changes alone has made some containers leak. Plastic is safer than dealing with glass in luggage - put in ziplock bags, let out the air. if somehow the luggage gets smooshed enough to break the plastic - hopefully the ziplock will contain it all.
Laundry in China, always remove it from the bags ASAP!!! It is usually still damp!!
Keys For Your Luggage! Don’t forget your luggage keys!
Inflatable Beach Ball. fun and takes no room.
Inflatable Beach Ball. fun and takes no room.
2'x2' piece of a picnic tablecloth, the plastic kind with felt backing (makes a great and easily washable diaper changing place)
"White-out" Marker. It’s easy to correct mistakes on the forms. Hard to get new copies.
Passport Photos. Obvious reasons
COPIES of: driver's licenses, passport page 1 and birth certificates. These will make it easier to obtain a replacement passport on the off chance yours is stolen or lost.
This tips have all been from adoptive parents that have made the trip to China and have been gracious enough to post on my yahoo groups. So a big thanks to all of them. Check back because I will be continually updating this list!
Pepto Bismal daily. Take two in the morning and two in the evening. The bismuth in them "has antibacterial qualities" according to doctors, and they are good for much more than just heartburn. They can actually help nip in the bud any Montezuma's Revenge type "bugs" that make it into your system before they reproduce enough to become problematic.
Thank you SP!
Thank you so much for my May SP gift. I have been feeling very under the weather this past week and this just brightened my day! This is my first Mother's Day Card! How great.
My grapefruit scented candle. This is great. I have been soaking in the tub everynight trying to make the pain go away and I have to tell you that I have been lighting this candle as I soak and it's been truely theraputic! :)
I also got the cutest "adoption" neclace and a little ladybug clip-on watch. The wings open up. It's just too cute. Thank you Secret Pal. You were the best thing about my week!!!
Lifebook & Birthparents
I belong to a yahoo group on China Lifebooks for our daughters. It's an awesome site and very helpful in creating a Lifebook. This latest topic is on Birthparents. It's very thought provoking and a section that I am definately struggling with. One of the questions was "what are your feelings about the Birthparents?" Here is a portion of what I wrote:
"... I am so grateful to my daughter-to-be’s birthparents. Because of them, I will have a daughter, be a mommy, and have the life that I always dreamed of. Because of them I will be able see her eyes light up when I (Me, Mommy) picks her up from daycare, to sing songs to her in the car, hang her artwork on the fridge, hold her tight when she is grieving, kiss her goodnight, and watch her sleep. Grateful is such an understatement.
Because of them, my daughter might struggle with her identity. Because of them, my daughter will always wonder why they are not her mommy or daddy, but her birthparents. This breaks my heart. How can I be so grateful and so sad/angry. I cannot imagine their world, although I try. I cannot imagine how one cannot raise their own child. I try, but I cannot see clearly.
Fear. This is a small emotion I feel but a powerful one. I fear that a small part of my daughter might resent me for taking her away from her birthparents and China. I hope to show her all the respect for her Heritage and Birthparents that I can.
In my head I imagine next Mother’s Day. I imagine that I find a way to honor her birthparents by doing something special. Am I doing this for me or am I doing this for my daughter? I hope the answer is that I am doing it for both of us! I know for me it will be my way of saying “Thank You” for making me a mom every year!!
I am struggling with how I tell my daughter in her lifebook and then verbally about her birthparents. Do I assume? Do I tell her that her birthparents loved her and placed her to be found for a better life? Do I leave out the “loved” part? How do you explain to your child that you were loved but then abandoned? Love is a powerful and wonderful thing and how can I assure myself that Love & Abandonment never get intertwined. As an adult, it is easier to see the difference. But to a child, how clear is it? I promise that I will try my very hardest to raise her with self esteem and a great sense of self worth. I am just asking for guidance.
I don’t have the words yet but I am working on it!....."
Disney Movies & Others
I love movies and especially all of the Disney Movies. I am now starting a "Disney Movie" collection. I am collecting all of them in VHS (ya know...the "new" 8-track) in those large covers. I have a pretty good start. Listed below are the movies that I already had, gifts from friends, or from yard sales. I hope to have lots!
Should I or Shouldn't I?
So, on a few of my yahoo groups there seems to be the topic of whether or not one adoptive-parent-to-be should/shouldn't approach families that appear to have adopted. I am an Asian Baby Magnet. In such a small state, I have been seeing more and more of these families. I don't have an FCC that I am aware of here in Delaware. So, what do I do. NOTHING.
I am not alone in the world or anything but I just so much want to be friends with someone who has adopted. Please don't get me wrong...I LOVE MY CYBER FRIENDS. You all are my rock... I am sure you know what I mean. (that in person contact) Anyway, most of the families on my yahoo groups just dislike being approached even if it is in a nice way. There are a few members that say they don't mind but most do not want to be bothered but tolerate it. I don't want to bother anyone. So, this weekend at a yardsale...there is a little Asian girl with Caucasian Parents. They looked like such a sweet and happy family. Did I want to just blurt out that she was beautiful and I too am adopting...YES. What did I do?...NOTHING.
Yesterday, I am in a department store on my lunch break and I see a Caucasian Mom with a little Asian Girl carrying around a little plastic photo album of her family. I bet she was adopted, and recently too. Do I do NOTHING again? I must come up with a plan. Ok...I got it. We're both shopping for little girls clothing and I asked what size she was buying for her daughter cause I am wondering what size I might want to buy. If she asked how old is the child I am buying for, I will mention a small size but that I am not totally sure and that I was LID in February. I figured that if she wanted to open up a dialog, it was her call. Sound like a good plan?
Oops. She had no idea what LID was. Now I was totally confused. I'm an idiot. So much for my plan. Once she figured out what the heck I was trying to say, she was chatty kathy. Her daughter had been adopted one month ago from Korea. She did not have to travel, they escorted her daughter to the States. Both mom and daughter were very sweet. We chatted for a while, wished each other well and then said our goodbyes.
A few minutes later she came back and said that she just want to let me know that I will be amazed at how much I will love my daughter and that in the shortest time I will feel as though she had been with me forever. She said that it was amazing how much love she had for her daughter and would die for her and that it would be the best thing I've ever done. She was so emotional and it took my breath away. I had a good cry on the way back to work.
Anyway, I am so glad I bugged her in the store. I guess I just got lucky. Will I approach other in the future. I don't know. But I hope so.
Freshly Bathed
So this is the weekend for cleaning. All of Pirate's toys that have made it into Giorgia's Room have just gotten washed. Pirate got a bath too. Thought this would be a cute photo op! To bad this doesn't even show the HUGE amount of doggie toys! I keep trying to cute down on the amount but he is just so attached. Especially the ones in the crib!
My Clean Tribute
My Tribute is thanking me sorry much for the drive thru car wash tonight. It was just begging to be cleaned!!! Look at that sparkle. Hey, you can even see Pirate at my door. Hi Pirate!! Love you baby! Maybe tomorrow I'll tackle the inside!! :) You all have a great weekend!
Thank you SP!
Look what my SP sent! They are beautiful tulips! They are in on my desk at my office and I am getting more comments!! "April showers bring Mei Flowers!" Yup, they sure do. Thanks so much for the flowers, they are beautiful! :)
Very True...
| Your Personality Profile |
 You are dependable, popular, and observant. Deep and thoughtful, you are prone to moodiness. In fact, your emotions tend to influence everything you do. You are unique, creative, and expressive. You don't mind waving your freak flag every once and a while. And lucky for you, most people find your weird ways charming! |
Yard Sale Find
This past Saturday I hit an awesome yard sale. All of the clothes were .50 a piece. She had great stuff. I bought a bunch. My two favorite out fits are below. Each ended up costing $1.50. You can't beat that! (The outfit on the right looks wierd because of the way the photo has been taken...it's in perfect condition!)
What gender is your brain?
| Your Brain is 73.33% Female, 26.67% Male |
Your brain leans female You think with your heart, not your head Sweet and considerate, you are a giver But you're tough enough not to let anyone take advantage of you! |
Tagged - Addition
Well, I almost forgot to add the absolutely wierdest thing about me. I LOVE the smell of skunk. Ok, let me explain...
You know how certain smells conjure up memories, well...
In am 22, in Ocean City Maryland inlet walking with my "serious" boyfriend and there it is, the smell of skunk. I start giggling and tell him that I have to tell him something really, really wierd. He says that he has to tell me something really wierd too. I told him I loved the smell of skunk and he was like..."me too". I say, but I have a story and he said..."me too". So, here is my story...
When I was around 10 my mom took me to painting classes at this womens home. There was a little girl and a little boy that was taking the classes too. Half way through the class, we would take a break and have a beverage and a snack. Now, this lady...lets just say, was very eccentric-sp. Anyway, she had an iguana. So, for a beverage choice we could pick orange tea or lizard juice. What is lizard juice? She said that she would pull a tooth from her iguana and she would grind it up and make this special juice. Okay, what kid doesn't want the lizard juice. Did I mention that it smelled like SKUNK. So we would hold our nose and drink the juice. (tasted kinda like lime/lemonade) So, we ALWAYS drank the skinky lizard juice. It was so cool and to this day, I LOVE the smell of skunk.
Did I mention...the little boy in my class turned out to be my boyfriend. How cool was that. If only he could have stayed that sweet little boy. Anyway, cool story and true.
I've been tagged...
I've been "tagged"... by Sheryl, Wanda, Sandy, and Shannon. I need to tell the world 6 weird things about me. Only 6???? How will I ever narrow "this" list down?
1. When I was younger love to getting my teeth pulled at the dentist.
2. Love to pick my food apart.
3. When I watch TV with turtleneck on, I always pull it over my chin. (I always wear turtlenecks)
4. I won’t buy fresh chicken breasts, only frozen from Costco, because that thin film on fresh chicken wigs me out.
5. Hate toilet paper hangers. When I bought my house, one of the first things I did was take them out of the three bathrooms. The TP roll just sits on the back of T or the sink counter. Not that I like where the TP sits, but there really isn’t an option. See…Weird!!
6. I can sleep in middle of summer out in the sun with 3 layers of clothes on. Let me explain. I usually go on fishing trips in the summer, (love them) but leave around 5am. So, layer 1 is bathing suit, layer 2 is shorts and top, layer 3 is sweat suit. Then, if we are not catching lots of fish, I will be laying out in 95 degree weather with all my layers on….sleeping.
7. I love to wear pantyhose.
8. The craziest of them all. I am a Compulsive list maker and don’t get anything accomplished without a list including cleaning the house and going to beach for the weekend. I use EXCEL spreadsheets for them. When going to beach, I even put things like bring bathing suit, shave legs, paint toe nails etc. It’s very detailed. I even have a list for all of Pirates stuff. Don’t forget his favorites…Big Mama and Cami. (his two most favorite toys)
Belize
Wow! Christie & Jay just got back from Belize!!! Welcome Home! I figure if I shut my eyes real tight and wish a whole bunch, I too will be transported there! Thanks for the post card!
I said I was done.....
I said I was done buying "stuff", but just look how cute. An Asian Bratz in a Tutu and Tiara. What more could I possibly ask for! :)Can I tell you, I love Bratz. I still have one more to get...but it's a "My Scene - Bling Bling".
Extreme Makover
AHH Adoptive Family Receives Extreme Home Makeover:
Brian and Michelle Hassal, two time adoptive parents through a Helping Hand have been selected by ABC's Extreme Makeover. Their home is located in Northern Kentucky and this week a thousand volunteers will be building a new home for this family with quite a story.
The adoptive father, Officer Brian Hassall, was shot in the line of duty. The mom, Michelle, is battling a blood disorder and lymphoma cancer. Because of the medical condition, the couple couldn't have their own children, so they chose to adopt through A Helping Hand.
They adopted their daughter daughter, Alex, 8, and Sam, a special needs three-year-old boy born in China with a cleft palate.
Treatment time led the couple to miss work, and increasing medical bills put a financial strain on the family, who's now maxed out their credit cards and taken out a second mortgage.
The Hassalls were sent on vacation and will return in a week to a brand new home. To God be the Glory!!
The air date for this episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition has not been announced. The show airs on Channel 9 Sundays at 8 p.m.
Brian and Michelle Hassal, two time adoptive parents through a Helping Hand have been selected by ABC's Extreme Makeover. Their home is located in Northern Kentucky and this week a thousand volunteers will be building a new home for this family with quite a story.
The adoptive father, Officer Brian Hassall, was shot in the line of duty. The mom, Michelle, is battling a blood disorder and lymphoma cancer. Because of the medical condition, the couple couldn't have their own children, so they chose to adopt through A Helping Hand.
They adopted their daughter daughter, Alex, 8, and Sam, a special needs three-year-old boy born in China with a cleft palate.
Treatment time led the couple to miss work, and increasing medical bills put a financial strain on the family, who's now maxed out their credit cards and taken out a second mortgage.
The Hassalls were sent on vacation and will return in a week to a brand new home. To God be the Glory!!
The air date for this episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition has not been announced. The show airs on Channel 9 Sundays at 8 p.m.
Secret Pal - March
Thanks so much to my Secret Pal. I LOVE my books. I have seen this ladybug book but have yet to get one! Now...I HAVE ONE! It is just too cute. Everyone should have one. I also love the little photo album. This will be perfect for Giorgi's Care Package! Now, I just have to get those photos in it!! Thanks so much to my Secret Pal!!
My Logo
I just got the news that the logo I designed was chosen! Yipee! I am so excited! This is for our January 2006 DTC group. Thank you to everyone that voted for #20!!
QUILT SQUARES & WISHES WANTED WILLING TO SWAP!
Well, I have decided to go forward with the 100 Good Wishes Quilt. Lisa W. made a good point, she doesn't want her little Tate to see someone else's and wonder where hers was! Hmm. Really good point. So, I am requesting Squares & Wishes and willing to swap! If anyone is interested just email me! I am requesting 8x8 square if hand cut, 7x7 if rotary cut or you can even just send an uncut piece of fabric if you detest cutting. I have a rotary and it's super easy for me. :) You can address Giorgia if you like or one of her nicknames (Gigi or Giorgi). Thanks so much, I can't wait to get restarted on this project.
Stephe
Well, I have decided to go forward with the 100 Good Wishes Quilt. Lisa W. made a good point, she doesn't want her little Tate to see someone else's and wonder where hers was! Hmm. Really good point. So, I am requesting Squares & Wishes and willing to swap! If anyone is interested just email me! I am requesting 8x8 square if hand cut, 7x7 if rotary cut or you can even just send an uncut piece of fabric if you detest cutting. I have a rotary and it's super easy for me. :) You can address Giorgia if you like or one of her nicknames (Gigi or Giorgi). Thanks so much, I can't wait to get restarted on this project.
Stephe
Nursery on a Budget
If you’re like me, you want to do your nursery but are not yet ready to commit to a theme. Afraid that you are going to change your mind next week, next month, or next year? Me too. Okay, I figured it out. At least, I figured it out for me and thought I would share with you.
When I think of my daughter’s room, what do I envision? I thought…GIRLY! What is GIRLY anyway? There are so many different things that are girly. So, I need to define GIRLY. GIRLY for me means sparkly! OK. It’s a start, and don’t think I didn’t contemplate HEAVILY on mixing glitter in my faux finish glaze! LOL. So, how do I make my daughter’s room sparkly. Then it hit me, I want one of those chandelier’s that I sometimes see in little girls rooms. That’s it! So, that was my starting point.
I have always found that in each room that I decorate, there seems to be one main focal point. I figured that this will be Giorgi’s. I also decided that since the chandelier was going to be the focal point,this will be the one item that I will splurge on. It’s the one thing that will be totally unique about her room, and I will design her room around it. Easy enough…right. My budget allowed me $200 for this. Have you priced chandeliers recently? This was not going to fit into my plan. Anyway, I searched on and off for the perfect chandelier for about 4 months. Then, I found THE ONE. I was in love before I even looked at the price. $199 and free shipping. Was that a sign or what!
Okay, so back to the room. Since the chandelier had little crystal flowers on it, I was thinking garden theme.
When I think of my daughter’s room, what do I envision? I thought…GIRLY! What is GIRLY anyway? There are so many different things that are girly. So, I need to define GIRLY. GIRLY for me means sparkly! OK. It’s a start, and don’t think I didn’t contemplate HEAVILY on mixing glitter in my faux finish glaze! LOL. So, how do I make my daughter’s room sparkly. Then it hit me, I want one of those chandelier’s that I sometimes see in little girls rooms. That’s it! So, that was my starting point.
I have always found that in each room that I decorate, there seems to be one main focal point. I figured that this will be Giorgi’s. I also decided that since the chandelier was going to be the focal point,this will be the one item that I will splurge on. It’s the one thing that will be totally unique about her room, and I will design her room around it. Easy enough…right. My budget allowed me $200 for this. Have you priced chandeliers recently? This was not going to fit into my plan. Anyway, I searched on and off for the perfect chandelier for about 4 months. Then, I found THE ONE. I was in love before I even looked at the price. $199 and free shipping. Was that a sign or what!
Okay, so back to the room. Since the chandelier had little crystal flowers on it, I was thinking garden theme.
Themes
I imagined every garden theme imaginable, even butterflies and ladybugs. My daughter would not be a baby-baby so I wanted a theme that would grow with her. I wanted to paint a beautiful mural on the wall. But after I paint the beautiful mural, it’s never going away. LOL. What if she ends up hating it and wants Dora on the wall. NO. So, I ruled out the mural. (Love Dora, just not on the wall). So, I want pretty neutral walls. I then decided to go with a faux sky. It’s cheery, serene, soft, and kind of shabby chic and of course, the chandelier would look fantastic against it. Done. Plus, in the future I can change the look of the room with accents. I don’t have to commit to a “THEME” per say.
Color
Paint is going to give you the biggest bang for your buck. It’s cheap and easy. I highly recommend painting your ceiling. It gives off a very finished look. Even consider a border as an accent instead of wallpaper. I am not a very big fan of wallpaper if you ever want to remove it, it is nerve wracking!
The best finishes to consider for children’s wall are satin, semi-gloss or eggshell indoor latex paint. Smudges of dirt will wipe right off with a damp cloth and some mild soap. You might be able to get away with a flat paint, but only in a room where the child will primarily be sleeping and not playing.
Spend the extra time prepping the room. You know, taping the woodwork and other stuff for clean lines. Time has been my best friend. I have the luxury of having lots of time to do all of this without catering to the needs of a family. My pooch Pirate is very low maintenance. But when it comes to to saving money – you can do it too.
Furniture
A must have for me was a white armoire. I didn’t mind if I have to refinish one, just needed one. I found mine at Kmart for $149.99 with no tax. Delaware has no sales tax. Yahoo. Anyway, it’s not as sturdy as I would have liked, but for the price I am definitely not complaining.
As you know, I am going with a white furniture theme. I began looking for a crib. There are just way too many to choose from. Is my daughter going to use a crib or co-sleep? How old are children when they outgrow the crib? All of these questions were swirling around in my head. Hmmmm. Ok, here is my take. I want a crib and I hope she sleeps in it. I will co-sleep if I have to. So, do I want to put a chunk of money into a crib that she might never even use? Not really. As luck would have it, a member of my freecycle group offered a white crib to me and a friend gave me her crib mattress. DONE.
*NOTE: The National Safety Council explains things to consider when buying a crib: http://www.nsc.org/library/facts/cribtips.
I already have a full size bed in this room since it was the craft/guest room. I am not a fan of toddler beds. So, it stays. I am thinking…before I do the co-sleeping thing, I would sleep in the full size bed with the crib scooted up lengthwise beside the bed. It’s sort of an in between concept.
Other furniture? Look for dual functional furniture, instead of a changing table, find a dresser that you can place a changing pad on. Put all of the diapering necessities in the top drawer. So I needed a few more pieces, so I decided to look at garage sales, thrift stores, or freecycle.org to buy pieces to refinish. As my luck would have it, my boss at my second job offered me her daughter’s furniture. Her daughter is all grown up and out of the house. The furniture is around 27 years old but good stuff. I was jumping for joy. Sight unseen – I knew I could make it awesome. So, I got it and it looks awesome. You can refinish any piece of furniture and make it great. *NOTE: Do make sure anything you buy secondhand complies with current child safety requirements.
I don’t stain furniture…too much work. PAINT! Paint is cheap. Okay, I know that stained pieces are beautiful, but my budget screams PAINT. When refinishing…I cheat. I am NOT sanding. Use BIN primer and it bonds to anything. Then paint. At least two coats and let dry thoroughly!! I picked a high gloss. It was the look that I was going for. This way it can be easily cleaned as well.
If you have a bunch of non matching pieces, after you paint them, tie them together a little more, by switching out the hardware. I found my crystal knobs online for a fraction of the cost of Lowe’s or Home Depot.
Safety - Older furniture is much sturdier for child use and don’t forget to anchor to walls. One of my friends cousins little boy was climbing a dresser when it fell on him and was severely injured. He needs a nurse 24/7. It is devastating for the family. So, this is one thing that I am adamant about….securing the furniture in the nursery. I am considering it with a few other pieces in my house. The price is so minimal.
Don't forget a place for you to sit in the nursery. Pick a comfortable chair. You'll be spending many nights there with your baby, reading her stories or rocking her to sleep. I don’t have one yet. I’m working on it.
Window Treatments
Window treatments are a place where you can really save money by doing the work yourself or buy very inexpensive one. Luckily for me, I wanted sheers and they seem to be the cheapest. I found them at Value City. Some have told me that it's very inexpensive to make them with cute fabric or even using twin sheets.
*NOTE: Make sure to use those safety gadgets to wind up blinds.
*NOTE: Make sure to use those safety gadgets to wind up blinds.
Storage
Find a way to create lots of storage space. You'll probably need more room than you think. Once the clothes get bigger and are joined by shoes and other accessories, you'll need every inch of closet space you can get. Not to mention a place to put all those toys! For extra storage, I did custom closets with adjustable shelves to grow with my daughter. I have the armoire and dresser, plus those under the bed containers and 2 Rubbermaid containers hidden underneath the crib.
Accents
Buy inexpensive accents to pull the room together. I have my enchanted twinkle tree in my room. I think the total cost was less than $30. I personally don’t want a lot of stuff on the walls, I prefer the simplicity. Some rooms over stimulate me; this is what I am trying to avoid. It’s not for everyone though. Do what makes you happy.
Inexpensive ways to accent would be to frame pictures from children's books for inexpensive art they'll love. You can find books at thrift stores or garage sales for pennies. This is also a good way to use books if baby has eaten a couple of pages but you don't want to throw them away!
Okay, I this is how I saved money on my nursery.
If you have trouble reading this chart, the best way to view it is if you click on it. It will take you to a separate page. Once there, scroll your mouse over it and in the left top corner print options will appear and in the bottom right corner a photobox with a bunch of arrows will appear. click on this photo box and it will enlarge to a nice "viewable" size.
Desiree
Hi Desiree. I am trying to respond to your comment about Quilt squares, but my email won't link to your email or comment and I can't find your comment!! Ok, I am now confusing myself. So, Desiree, if you read this, comment again on this post so I can find you. Thanks. Stephe
Girlie Duckies
Ventured out to Target this morning! Big Mistake. No, not really cause look what I found...
Giorgi's Bathroom is Lemonade yellow with flower accents. I original thought about doing a duckie theme. But, I am not a big duckie fan. If only they made a girlie Duckie. Well, I found one! Thanks to Pat and Tamara, those Christmas gift certificates just bought all of Giorgi's Bathroom Accessories! I LOVE them!!!
Disney Find
Today was a fun day. I went to a couple of yardsale with the intent to find a headboard that I could refinish for Giorgi's room. Didn't find one but I did come across a whole bunch of Disney Movies for sale. Half of them had never been opened! $2 a piece. What a great find. My favorite is the Kind and I. Boy, Giorgi's Disney video collection is definately coming along!
Madeline – Lost in Paris
The Fox and the Hound
Belle’s Tales of Friendship
The Aristocats
The King and I
Swan Princess III
The Three Cabelleros
The Spirit of Mickey
Melody Times
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh I
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh II
The Book of Pooh
The Parent Trap
Summer of the MonkeyBeethoven’s 4th
The Fox and the Hound
Belle’s Tales of Friendship
The Aristocats
The King and I
Swan Princess III
The Three Cabelleros
The Spirit of Mickey
Melody Times
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh I
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh II
The Book of Pooh
The Parent Trap
Summer of the MonkeyBeethoven’s 4th
70 Random Things about Me
(and we’re talkin’ random!)
Ok Donna, I did 70 of the 100.
Ok Donna, I did 70 of the 100.
maybe I'll come up with more.
1. I don't let people in very easily.
2. I love chick flicks.
3. I am a certified scuba diver.
4. I am an Aries, born on the day they buried Martin Luther King Jr.
5. I love the Ocean and Boats!!
6. I have no desire to go to any of my high school reunions.
7. I was a competitive ice skater when I was younger.
8. I love to shop by myself! Prefer it.
9. When I am alone in the house, I have to have the TV on in every room on the same channel. Kitchen, Living room, Bedroom, Nursery! Now, that’s what I call surround sound.
10. I am obsessed with dead animals on the road. I am a magnet for them and am upset for the rest of the day.
11. Have been known to pick up lost dogs and hunt down owners.
12. Refuse to pay to see scary movies. I don’t pay to be stressed. I can do that on my own for free.
13. I absolutely love sparkly flip flops – boss hates them. Don’t care!
14. While in the Bahamas, had a large frog suctioned to my face and wouldn’t come off. Do you know how hard it is to laugh hysterically with your mouth shut, frog stuck to your face and half looped?
15. I daily self diagnose my own illnesses. Kinda funny.
16. I put my makeup on in the downstairs powder room.
17. Brush my teeth in kitchen sink ever since I read a report that a toothbrush must be at least 6ft. from a toilet. When a toilet is flushed, bacteria is airborne 6 ft.
18. Not fazed by Blood or Gore in anyway in regards to humans. Pet’s I cannot handle. Weird, I know.
19. Very creative.
20. Favorite actor is a tie between Jack Nicholson and Kevin Spacey.
21. Favorite actress is Angelina Jolie.
22. I wear my hair up every single day. Even most special occasions. It’s beautiful when down for only about 20 minutes. Argh.
23. I want to be Martha Stewart, with Oprahs money, minus the Martha attitude.
24. I love sportfishing.
25. When I went to Alaska, the most important thing I wanted to do was go salmon fishing.
26. New Found Sport – Yard Sale-ing.
27. Love to wear Black.
28. In High School I was feature majorette and co-head cheerleader.
29. I drive a Mazda Tribute – Dark Grey (Mom car)
30. My previous car was a Miata, convertible bright red stick shift. (Non-Mom Car)
31. Will NOT go anywhere without makeup on.
32. I drive the 7 guys I work with crazy every day
33. I don’t feel bad about it.
34. Most times I do it intentionally.
35. I am extremely sarcastic.
36. Routine oriented. (but not upset by spur of the moment fun stuff)
37. Can be ready to go at a moments notice. (that’s gonna change. LOL)
38. Extremely resourceful. I consider this one of my best qualities.
39. PackRat - I am working on it.
40. I love my eyes.
41. Too bad I am going blind. (need +1.25 glasses to read books)
42. I love my townhouse
43. I absolutely HATE yard work. Wish I could cement it ALL.
44. Can do all of my own electrical work.
45. Spend way too much time searching for a meaningful gift.
46. I am a great photographer.
47. Can’t sing a tune but will still sing for my daughter.
48. Gave my mother’s yorkie (dog) two injections every day for a year.
49. Dislocate my should every now and again.
50. Work really hard to prove a point!!!
51. Hate to talk on the phone.
52. Don’t mind going to the movies by myself.
53. Love suprises but if I am blessed with a baby shower and someone doesn’t make sure that my hair, makeup, and outfit are appropriate – someone’s in BIG trouble.
54. I am NEVER late and annoyed when people make me wait.
55. Love 80’s Funk, R& B, and RAP
56. I am not upset with delays in this adoption process.
57. CANNOT STAND condescending people.
58. More excited about giving a gift then receiving.
59. I was attacked by wild dogs in the British West Indies and was transported to the Vet clinic to clean me up before transporting me to the doctors. Couldn’t sew me up due to infectious disease possibility.
60. Love to have my teeth pulled at the Dentist (I told you I was weird)
61. I would never want a woman president. (no flames, I just think other countries would not give us the respect, not that a woman wouldn’t do a great job.)
62. I am Republican and I LOVE George Bush. (no flames)
63. I don’t not agree with EVERYTHING he stands for.
64. I love to fly. It’s part of the vacation.
65. Head massages are the ultimate.
66. I am always considerate of others feelings (well mostly)
67. I hate imposing on others
68. I try really hard to write emails that reflect my intent.
69. I am a research, spread sheet, list maker freak. LOL.
70. & most important. Totally excited about becoming a MOM to a little girl!!
1. I don't let people in very easily.
2. I love chick flicks.
3. I am a certified scuba diver.
4. I am an Aries, born on the day they buried Martin Luther King Jr.
5. I love the Ocean and Boats!!
6. I have no desire to go to any of my high school reunions.
7. I was a competitive ice skater when I was younger.
8. I love to shop by myself! Prefer it.
9. When I am alone in the house, I have to have the TV on in every room on the same channel. Kitchen, Living room, Bedroom, Nursery! Now, that’s what I call surround sound.
10. I am obsessed with dead animals on the road. I am a magnet for them and am upset for the rest of the day.
11. Have been known to pick up lost dogs and hunt down owners.
12. Refuse to pay to see scary movies. I don’t pay to be stressed. I can do that on my own for free.
13. I absolutely love sparkly flip flops – boss hates them. Don’t care!
14. While in the Bahamas, had a large frog suctioned to my face and wouldn’t come off. Do you know how hard it is to laugh hysterically with your mouth shut, frog stuck to your face and half looped?
15. I daily self diagnose my own illnesses. Kinda funny.
16. I put my makeup on in the downstairs powder room.
17. Brush my teeth in kitchen sink ever since I read a report that a toothbrush must be at least 6ft. from a toilet. When a toilet is flushed, bacteria is airborne 6 ft.
18. Not fazed by Blood or Gore in anyway in regards to humans. Pet’s I cannot handle. Weird, I know.
19. Very creative.
20. Favorite actor is a tie between Jack Nicholson and Kevin Spacey.
21. Favorite actress is Angelina Jolie.
22. I wear my hair up every single day. Even most special occasions. It’s beautiful when down for only about 20 minutes. Argh.
23. I want to be Martha Stewart, with Oprahs money, minus the Martha attitude.
24. I love sportfishing.
25. When I went to Alaska, the most important thing I wanted to do was go salmon fishing.
26. New Found Sport – Yard Sale-ing.
27. Love to wear Black.
28. In High School I was feature majorette and co-head cheerleader.
29. I drive a Mazda Tribute – Dark Grey (Mom car)
30. My previous car was a Miata, convertible bright red stick shift. (Non-Mom Car)
31. Will NOT go anywhere without makeup on.
32. I drive the 7 guys I work with crazy every day
33. I don’t feel bad about it.
34. Most times I do it intentionally.
35. I am extremely sarcastic.
36. Routine oriented. (but not upset by spur of the moment fun stuff)
37. Can be ready to go at a moments notice. (that’s gonna change. LOL)
38. Extremely resourceful. I consider this one of my best qualities.
39. PackRat - I am working on it.
40. I love my eyes.
41. Too bad I am going blind. (need +1.25 glasses to read books)
42. I love my townhouse
43. I absolutely HATE yard work. Wish I could cement it ALL.
44. Can do all of my own electrical work.
45. Spend way too much time searching for a meaningful gift.
46. I am a great photographer.
47. Can’t sing a tune but will still sing for my daughter.
48. Gave my mother’s yorkie (dog) two injections every day for a year.
49. Dislocate my should every now and again.
50. Work really hard to prove a point!!!
51. Hate to talk on the phone.
52. Don’t mind going to the movies by myself.
53. Love suprises but if I am blessed with a baby shower and someone doesn’t make sure that my hair, makeup, and outfit are appropriate – someone’s in BIG trouble.
54. I am NEVER late and annoyed when people make me wait.
55. Love 80’s Funk, R& B, and RAP
56. I am not upset with delays in this adoption process.
57. CANNOT STAND condescending people.
58. More excited about giving a gift then receiving.
59. I was attacked by wild dogs in the British West Indies and was transported to the Vet clinic to clean me up before transporting me to the doctors. Couldn’t sew me up due to infectious disease possibility.
60. Love to have my teeth pulled at the Dentist (I told you I was weird)
61. I would never want a woman president. (no flames, I just think other countries would not give us the respect, not that a woman wouldn’t do a great job.)
62. I am Republican and I LOVE George Bush. (no flames)
63. I don’t not agree with EVERYTHING he stands for.
64. I love to fly. It’s part of the vacation.
65. Head massages are the ultimate.
66. I am always considerate of others feelings (well mostly)
67. I hate imposing on others
68. I try really hard to write emails that reflect my intent.
69. I am a research, spread sheet, list maker freak. LOL.
70. & most important. Totally excited about becoming a MOM to a little girl!!
Blogger Block
I am having Blogger Block!! It's been a while since I have posted, just don't know what to post. Do you ever feel like the weeks are just running together with no begining or end? I have mostly been playing catch-up. Anyway, help me get "un-blocked"! Is there anything that anyone wants to ask me or research for them. I like to research, but you all know that! LOL. Help me outta my funk! :)
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