Hopeless Chest

We Moved!

2011-11-12T18:25:00.000-05:00

Did you find us yet?

The blog has moved to a new spot, with a new name and a beautiful new design.

It was time for a change. I'm not so "hopeless" anymore.

Please make sure you update your bookmarks, blog roll, re-follow, etc.

Overheard

2011-08-06T10:35:00.000-04:00

Me: Do you have any plans this weekend?

Dave: Baseball.

Me: And then?

Dave: Chuck's Burger Bar.

Me: And then?

Dave: . . . . . Changing the light switches?

Me: There ya go!

Out & About

2011-08-06T09:32:00.001-04:00

Lights for the kitchen and living room, check!

Dave's approval pending.

Sharing Is Caring

2011-08-05T06:51:00.000-04:00

cinemagraph by Jamie Beck

As usual, if only I had the time, patience and a place to put this tissue tassel garland

My three most recent Etsy faves

Progress continues on Crystal's double decker bus reno

Further proof we picked the right chairs for the antique table

I'd Live Here

2011-08-03T16:31:00.003-04:00

pics via Apartment Therapy

Guest Post: Welcome To Heardmont

2011-08-02T11:25:00.004-04:00

Hello there, Hopeless Chest readers. I'm Meredith from Welcome to Heardmont, and I'm so excited to be here with you today to share a bit about our first place.

My husband Stephen and I bought our first home 3 years ago and started remodeling the day we closed. The house wasn't in bad shape structurally, but cosmetically we've made a lot of changes and still have several big projects on our to-do list.

Writing a blog for the majority of our time in the house has been a blast and quite an interesting way for us to watch our own style evolve. We've learned a lot about working with the style of our home (1980s ranch) and combining furniture and art from different eras in ways that make our home feel cozy and comfortable.

Here are a few of the changes we've made to our favorite rooms so far.

Entryway: This first photo shows our entryway shortly after we moved into our house. That green dresser seemed like the perfect entryway console at the time, but once we figured out how we needed that space to function we replaced it with a smaller mid-century modern credenza. Since this piece fits better with the style of our house, the wood trim and funky entry tile (yet to be addressed) don't look so out of place.

I've personally learned a lot about accessorizing over the past 3 years, and recently we've created a nice little collection on this credenza - some vintage lamps, a DIY sunburst mirror and hand-me-down runner.

Dining Room: Before we even owned our home, we had big plans to turn this little box of a dining room into an open space for entertaining in style. Like the rest of the house, the dining room originally sported popcorn ceilings and wood trim.

The day we moved in, we tore out the wall between our dining room and kitchen. We scraped the popcorn ceiling, painted the walls and trim, and hung a new light fixture almost immediately.

We've recently updated our dining room even more by hanging DIY curtains, installing can lights, and adding some personal art. You can't see it in this photo, but we also built a beam to disguise the missing wall between our dining room and kitchen.

Kitchen: Novice do-it-yourself-ers that we were when we bought our home, Stephen and I thought updating this dark kitchen would be a snap. As you can see, we had a lot to do, and we started with cabinet painting and (more) popcorn ceiling-scraping.

Those cabinets took longer to paint than we'd like to admit. Along the way, Stephen changed out the fluorescent fixture for recessed lighting, and we replaced some appliances and spruced up the island with wainscoting.

The island was always a sore spot for Mr. Heard, so when we had the opportunity to replace it, we took it! The new island is a recent addition from IKEA, and our lovely bar stools were another Craigslist find. Open storage on the opposite side of the island makes finding pots and pans so much easier.

Living Room: The day we moved in, our living room was big, empty and dated. The dark brick fireplace was overpowering and the off-white walls went on for miles.

Over the course of several months, we painted the room a light blue, lightened the fireplace up with white paint, hung drapes over the two huge windows, and painted the fireplace grate oil-rubbed bronze.

Since then, we've changed out accessories and doubled up our window treatments, making this cavernous room much more cozy for our family.

Master Bedroom: We bought our bedroom suite on a whim at a discount furniture store shortly after we bought our house and have been pleasantly surprised at the quality over the past 3 years. The rest of our master bedroom, however, was a mix of hand-me-down furniture and bedding from the start.

Our first bedroom update included new paint, nightstands, lamps, curtains, bedding, and accessories. The vintage mirror created a great focal point above the bed.

With master closet and bathroom makeovers underway, the master bedroom got some more sprucing. The furniture and wall color stayed the same, but we updated the linens to a color palette of yellow, gray and white and added a wall of curtains behind our bed to hide an off-center window.

Master Bathroom: Our most recent renovation, this master bath was bland and beige when we moved in. We tackled the popcorn ceilings first, but after 3 years of boring, we were ready for a change. We started by adding board and batten to the walls, and the reno took off from there!

For less than $600 we completely updated our master bathroom, top to bottom. The list of projects in this room is long and includes the board and batten, new lighting, a painted vanity and new sink, and our DIY shower curtain.

Master Closet: A leaking washing machine forced us to rip out the carpet in our master closet and replace it with tile. For fun, I added a new light fixture and a dresser for my accessories.

The updates to this space were far from over, though. Once we decided on a master suite color scheme, we updated our closet once again for right around $100. Big difference, no?

Guest Bedroom: For the first six months in our home, the guest bedroom served as Wedding Storage Room Extraordinaire. After our November 2008 wedding, it got the same "whatever works" treatment as our master bedroom. A year later, I ordered fabric and made lined curtains and throw pillows for this room, and inexpensive bedding on a Craigslist bedframe rounded it out.

We're excited around these parts because another guest room makeover is currently underway! We've made more DIY drapes and an upholstered headboard so far and can't wait to share the finished room soon.

It's funny looking back how much our house and our style has changed since we moved in. We like to keep things fresh and new throughout our home and are constantly finding ways to make it more "us" the longer we live here.

Thanks so much to Krista for inviting me to share our home with you today! If you'd like to see more room makeovers, furniture redos, and DIY projects, check us out at Welcome to Heardmont. Thanks!

Sharing Is Caring

2011-07-29T07:42:00.011-04:00

cinemagraph by Jamie Beck

I came across these amazing cinemagraphs by Jamie Beck on Sappy Apple.

I think I've solved my jewelry storage problem, I'll be taking a crack at this DIY from Mailardville Manor.

There's a million places these origami balloon lanterns would be fun to string up.

You had me at "bacon-wrapped". Thank you Janice.

Neat use of Ikea Stolmen system, outside of the closet.

Dear Dave,

2011-07-27T06:56:00.001-04:00

I might be more inclined to join "Team Cottage" if it's something like this.

You didn't know I was ecoroof loving hippy, did you?

xo,
Krista

pics via Portland Online, Design*Sponge and Terra.Fluxus

A New Addition

2011-07-26T08:38:00.000-04:00

No, we didn't get a puppy or anything quite that exciting. It's a new piece of furniture.

I found a dining room hutch on Kijiji and we picked it up Sunday morning.

Unfortunately, I dropped my camera so it's not working correctly and I can't seem to remember to take a picture before it gets dark out.

So here is my terrible photo of our new hutch. It's black with a distressed finish. We also switched out my hand-me-down table out of the kitchen and for the pub-height Ikea one that our friends are taking shortly.

Another good score!

Overheard

2011-07-25T08:57:00.002-04:00

Dave: "Why don't you like to barbecue?"

Me: "One, I think I'll blow myself up. Two, I don't want to overcook everything. Three, and I'm not going to say this very often, but, you're better at it than me."

[He tweeted that one pretty fast]

Sharing Is Caring

2011-07-22T15:53:00.015-04:00

It's that time of year again! The 2012 Ikea catalogue is out, according to Apartment Therapy, anyway.

*Insert happy dance here*

I just made and urgent plea to Dave to check our mailbox. It's not here yet. Waaaahhhh!

Alaina from Live Creating Yourself is sharing her home tour.

The gray and yellow colour combination caught my eye as well as the mix of traditional chairs with her retro table.

I'm excited to try this yummy recipe for Easy Greek Spread that I House*Tweaking. Now all we need is a party to make it for.

This week, I discovered Poppy & Pinecone on Etsy, but I won't let myself by a print until I figure out where I'll put it. Or who is the right person to gift one to.

[pics are all linked to their source]

Overheard

2011-07-21T07:03:00.000-04:00

Dave: "What do you think about getting a square dining table?"

Me: "I'd like a rectangle one."

Dave: "Maybe we should ask your mom."

Me: "No. Because she'll agree with you."

Some Day

2011-07-20T08:16:00.001-04:00

This is probably the greatest trailer makeover I've ever seen. And I'm not just saying that because they used my favorite wallpaper. Okay, maybe I am.

Lately I've been daydreaming about having one of my our own, since I've gone camping every summer for the last 27 years.

pics via Caravolic

2011-07-19T15:05:00.005-04:00

Happy 31st Birthday to my big brother Andrew!

I was so excited to leave for Algonquin Park last weekend, that I forgot to leave you guys any thing to read. I'm sure you were just dying of boredom.

I'd Live Here

2011-07-19T07:21:00.002-04:00

~~Dave~~ A little birdy told me I'm posting to many of these.

pics via Design*Sponge

Overheard

2011-07-13T09:12:00.001-04:00

Dave: "Would you like a program so you can track your progress at the gym?"

Me: "I thought my progress would be fitting in to my old jeans."

{Visited the gym for the first time Monday. Yay me}

pic via

We Need Some More Sun

2011-07-12T08:06:00.001-04:00

Good food, great friends, even better weather. We had lots of fun at Care's cottage this weekend.

Lesson learned for next time: Reapply follow up coats of sun screen as thoroughly as the first. Ow. We're all a little extra crispy recipe today.

Lucky!

2011-07-11T07:12:00.000-04:00

I'm more than a little bit jealous of Alana's trailer makeover.

Before:

After:

Before:

After: all pics via Kitschy Kitten

Have A Happy Weekend

2011-07-08T14:09:00.001-04:00

I hope your weekend includes somewhere pretty like this:

I'd Live Here

2011-07-07T06:23:00.000-04:00

pics via Design*Sponge

Overheard

2011-07-06T06:25:00.000-04:00

While working on the household budget...

Me: "Where is the "antiquing" money?"

Dave: *sigh*

I'd Live Here

2011-07-05T06:21:00.001-04:00

pics via AT

Things Dave Can't Have/Overheard

2011-07-04T07:23:00.000-04:00

Me: "Please don't play with that AXE!"

Dave: "Okay how about this instead?"

Happy Canada Day

2011-07-01T07:21:00.000-04:00

pic via helkatdesign

I'd Live Here

2011-06-30T07:12:00.000-04:00

pics via AT

@ The New House: Living Room AFTER

2011-06-30T06:31:00.000-04:00

Check out the before pics in case you need a refresher.

The living room is finished, for now. There are some new and new-ish items as well as some pieces that have followed me from place to place the last few years.

The Be Nice Or Leave pillow, I purchased from Etsy when I first moved out of my parents' house. The ladder and prints on either side of the television, I've had for years. Actually, the prints are vintage posters from an old calendar. The trunk is an old DIY as well.

The new chairs were a big hit with everyone at the housewarming party. Thank goodness, after all that trouble trying to get them shipped.

Bedrooms Sneak Peeks

2011-06-29T08:18:00.000-04:00

The master bedroom and guest room are nowhere near finished. But I snapped a few pics last weekend when the beds were made and things were tidy for the housewarming party.

The upholstered headboard was a birthday present from DecoratorMom.

The guest room will get a coat of paint ... eventually. The bedside table and clock were my two favorite purchases at the last Christie Antique Show.

Note To Self

2011-06-28T07:40:00.000-04:00

via SweetSpot.ca

Because the new fridge is stainless steel, we can't keep our Scrabble magnets on the front anymore. Maybe they'll find their way in to some shadow boxes.

I'd Live Here

2011-06-27T12:12:00.000-04:00

pics via Design*Sponge

Nel & Whit's Stag & Doe

2011-06-27T07:50:00.001-04:00

Friday night was the Stag & Doe party for our friends Nelson and Whitney. In case you've forgotten, they got engaged when we all went to Las Vegas last fall.

It was a fun evening! We can't wait for their wedding in August.

I'd Live Here

2011-06-24T06:23:00.000-04:00

pics via Design*Sponge

@ The New House: Curb Appeal

2011-06-23T06:56:00.004-04:00

March 2011 - From the listing, just days before we bought it. Seems funny looking at snow. May 7 - The day after we got the keys.

June 18 - I finally had a chance to take pictures the morning of our housewarming party. I can't take any credit. Dave and his mom, Cindy, did an amazing job on the yard.

We Are Lucky Ducks

2011-06-22T19:43:00.001-04:00

I've been under the weather and favoring the couch over the computer lately, but I wanted to take some time and post about our Housewarming Party that we threw over the weekend.

First off, we are spoiled with such great friends and family. Not only because everyone has been so helpful lending a hand to work on the house but also with such generous and thoughtful gifts.

Dave and I would like to thank everyone that came out to visit on Saturday, from all over, especially those who have helped make our house a home in these first 6 weeks. We were happy to share our new home with all of you and glad that everyone could visit on such a beautiful day.

Unfortunately, I was so busy enjoying everyone's company, the good food, and giving tours inside that I only took a few pictures at the beginning,before forgetting my camera all together.

It was a fantastic day, the first of many parties we hope to host in the future.

Thanks again!

I'd Live Here

2011-06-22T18:06:00.005-04:00

pics via Design*Sponge

I'd Live Here

2011-06-16T06:14:00.000-04:00

pics via Apartment Therapy

Road Trip!

2011-06-15T08:55:00.001-04:00

So we snuck off on a road trip this past weekend. We woke up ~~bright and~~ early at 4:30am on Friday morning and hit the road.

Many hours and several episodes of Modern Family on the iPod later, we reached Wisconsin!

Our first stop was Fond Du Lac for lunch with Annie and Joe. Joe is Dave's BFF from school. Then we headed to Appleton, where Dave and Joe went to school. We power-shopped for a bit before dinner.

(Apparently we only took pictures on Saturday, but since that's when most of the fun went down, you're not missing out on anything.)

(Must find out what creepy setting this is on the camera and never use it again)

Saturday started with a tour of the campus at Lawrence University. After that we had lunch again with Annie and Joe at The Bar before hitting the road for opening night of the Kenny Chesney Going Coastal tour at Lambeau Field in Green Bay.

Just one awesome example of all the tailgaters.

Staying hydrated

The crowd was huge!

We took the bus back to Appleton for a night on the town after the concert. Sunday we stopped in Chicago for the night, but we were too pooped for anything but dinner.

It was a great trip! I'm glad that I finally got to meet some more of Dave's friends from school. We're looking forward to going back for Joe and Annie's wedding next year.

Overheard

2011-06-13T08:18:00.001-04:00

Me: "I give it about a month before you destroy the order of the clothes sorted by colour on your side of the closet."

Dave: "Be realistic. It'll be much sooner than that."

Weekend To-Do List

2011-06-10T07:47:00.004-04:00

- eat cheese

- drink beer

- have fun

Meet Melvin

2011-06-09T09:03:00.000-04:00

Melvin likes climbing trees, quick jogs through our backyard and sleeping under the deck.

Melvin and I had a pretty intense starting contest Wednesday evening. I don't think I'll ever be the same.

Thank goodness we don't have new grass down for him to destroy, like Janice does.

Overheard

2011-06-08T21:17:00.005-04:00

Who needs an intercom system for three floors apart when there's Blackberries?!

Me: *sniff, sniff* Did you make popcorn?

Dave: maybe

@ The New House: Walk-In Closet Part 2

2011-06-08T06:43:00.000-04:00

A fun Friday night of drinking and painting

The closet got two coats of Laurel Leaf by Behr

Bye bye mustard walls!

I came home from the antique show to find that I was banned.

I couldn't be kept away though. I got to sneek a peek.

Hello mess!

Almost finished. Dave installed the Rubbermaid Configurations closet system all by himself.

"JuJu" Is Just Fun To Say

2011-06-07T08:36:00.000-04:00

I've always enjoyed feather Juju hats on display, but I'm not about to pay for one.

Did anyone else see the neat DIY version on Design*Sponge last week?

This clever version by Canadian blogger Rosa Pearson is made out of wool yarn. Quick, easy, cheap, AWESOME. Follow the link for Rosa's tutorial.

pic via Design*Sponge

@ The New House: Walk-In Closet Part 1

2011-06-06T08:11:00.001-04:00

When we got the house, the walk-in closet was a not so desirable shade of mustard yellow-orange. Not only was the colour unbearable, but the set up was too. There was plenty of shelves but only one hanging bar on the shortest wall.

Behind door #1: the master bedroom

Behind door #2: the upstairs bathroom

View from the bathroom

On our first work day, Chris and Nicole got all the shelves down and he began patching the walls.

Dave finished the patching.

Then weeks later, sanding was done. Eek.

Rain, Rain, Go Away

2011-06-04T15:13:00.000-04:00

We'd like to play outside today.

We picked up one yellow and one blue end table for the back deck today. On cleanance, plus and extra 10% off at Home Outfitters. Only $10.79 each. They matched the Muskoka chairs that Dave woke up bright and early to snag at half price a few weeks ago.

As you can see we also picked up a lime green patio umbrella, only one year late.

And my pink owls from my old house made it out of storage in to the back garden as well.

This Weekend's To Do List

2011-06-03T16:43:00.002-04:00

- paint the window frame in my office

- sew and hang curtains for the office

- ~~hang the rest of the art in my office~~

- finally buy baskets for the walk-in closet

- ~~hang the headboard in the master bedroom~~

- paint the window frame in the master bedroom

- clean up all the loose papers and bits everywhere

- send the rest of the invitations for the Open House party

- ~~date night!~~

I'd Live Here

2011-06-03T08:15:00.000-04:00

Love. That. Bathroom.

pics via Covet Magazine

Overheard

2011-06-02T22:43:00.001-04:00

Me: "Would you please take the weedwacker off the dining chair?"

Overheard

2011-06-02T09:42:00.003-04:00

Me: "Would you please not leave the weed whacker on the couch?"

(Don't panic, it was clean and brand new)

Even More!

2011-06-01T07:48:00.003-04:00

More From The Show

2011-05-31T08:31:00.002-04:00

Christie Antique Show: Away We Go!

2011-05-30T07:00:00.001-04:00

Well, we braved the weather and the mud (ooooh, the mud!) and shopped 'til we dropped on Saturday at the Christie Antique Show.
Sorry for the foot photo, but it had to be done. That was taken right before I rinsed them off during our lunch break.

Unfortunately, I didn't make it to the blogger meet up at 11am. I was too determined in my hunt for deals. I'm looking forward to seeing what the rest of the local Ontario bloggers found at the show.

8:00am - Realized I brought my old camera instead of my new one.
8:21am - Noticed Aunt Suzie was right in front of me on the highway.

8:49am - DecoratorMom, Aunt Suzie and Debber ready for some deals.

8:51am - Mama G and Thomas, ready to roll.

9:30am - My first purcahse at Tattered And Torn's booth.

10:30am - Mud, mud, and more mud. Even our swampy feet didn't ruin Vanessa's first trip to the show.

11:00am - Antiquers in their natural habitat. As usual, The Mummies were hunting for art.

2:20pm - High fives!

Thomas enjoyed himself as much as the rest of us.

Office Additions

2011-05-28T08:31:00.002-04:00

There are some new treats taking up residence in the office!

Thursday evening after dinner with my BFF, I ran through Ikea and picked up an Expedit shelf.

There were plenty of young, able-bodied employees in the loading area when I got there, but when I wheeled my purchase back out, they were nowhere to be seen.

I was slightly embarassed when a 40 year old woman lifted the shelf in to the back of my Jeep with ease after I struggled to even get it off the cart. (An employee inside put it on the cart for me after he got it out of the fenced off area, they needed restocking.)

Dave was kind enough to carry it inside and put the shelf together for me the same evening. Meanwhile, I yelled at the computer and struggled with Rubbermaid's online closet-planning program.

The other big addition is the LC Smith & Corona typewrite, that Papa Andy (Dave's grandfather) generously gave us. We're really excited to have it.

There's a decorator inside of Dave just waiting to get out. When I came upstairs I noticed that he'd staged his retro Canon camera next to the typewriter.

Now I just need to fill up the bookshelf, extend my desk for a sewing area, sew drapes and hang the rest of my art.

That list sounds longer than I thought. Eek.

Antiquing With The Mummies

2011-05-28T07:32:00.003-04:00

There are only a few things that I am willing to wake up early for on a Saturday morning.

Shopping at the annual Christie Antique Show with The Mummies, is one of them!

Those pics are from 2010, but rest assured I'll have plenty to share next week and maybe even a few new purchases.

Overheard

2011-05-27T17:50:00.006-04:00

Krista: "I'm going to get drunk and paint the closet."

Dave: "Go for it."

{2 hours later}

Krista: "For the record, because you knew I was going to drink and paint, you're not allowed to say anything about the quality of the job."

(If you ask me, skipping the guys' Friday night baseball game to get drunk by myself in a closet while painting is much more fun.)

Weekend To-Do List

2011-05-27T16:52:00.007-04:00

- ~~cut Oma & Opa's hair~~

- buy storage bins for my office

- ~~shop 'til I drop at the antique show~~

- find the paint for the closet *fingers crossed*

- ~~paint the closet~~

- ~~sew drapes for work~~

- sew and hang drapes for the office

- hem and hang drapes for the kitchen

- look for lights for the kitchen

- sleep in!

- consult with DecoratorMom on furniture arrangement and blinds

- hang the headboard in the master bedroom

- celebrate Nick's birthday

Things Dave Can't Have

2011-05-27T14:14:00.000-04:00

Happy Mothers Day, Grab A Brush!

2011-05-26T07:01:00.000-04:00

{Dave found the cord for his camera, which had some more photos of our first days working at the new house before we moved in!}

May 7 - Happy Mothers Day! DecoratorMom and Daddy helped out with some more painting.

Coffee break

Kitchen

Living room

Master bedroom

Dining area

@ The New House: My Office

2011-05-25T08:11:00.002-04:00

My new office is upstairs, at the back of the house, with a nice big window looking out on the backyard. It's much bigger than before and I can't wait to spread out everything for blogging, crafting and sewing.

May 6: Mustard walls, and dusty drapes. Yuck.

May 14: Fresh paint, and the computer set up. Yay, the blog is back in business.

May 22: A little more progress. My birthday presents find a home.

There's still lots to do in here. More art to hang, drapes to sew, a desk extension in the works and some extra storage on the brain.

Have a look at previous office posts here.

"Now All I Need Is A Beer Fridge"

2011-05-24T13:25:00.001-04:00

Is that a microwave in your mancave?

Yes. Yes it is.

Let's rewind... One of the few items we needed for the new house was a microwave, because the one at the condo was built in above the stove, we obviously could not take it with us. The hunt for a microwave began. The only criteria: it should be stainless steel to match the fridge and stove (don't get me started on the white dishwasher) and it will hopefully be found at an HBC store.

With an HBC gift card from our awesome and generous friends we went to the nearest Bay department store and had a look at what they had to offer.

We quickly learned there was a new criteria: it must be "pretty". After all, in a few months, the kitchen will be made over with the new cabinets and counter top, we can't have a dowdy microwave.

We chose one of three stainless steel microwaves, a Panasonic. With a dial and a panel of buttons that looked very confusing. Of course, it was out of stock. We trekked across town to the other bay, and it was out of stock there as well. Booo!

We ~~argued~~ debated for two days whether Home Outfitters also had microwaves (Dave was right), and if they did, whereabouts in the store were they located (I was right, by the small kitchen appliances).

When we got to the store they had "the pretty one" in stock. Wooo hooooo! We excitedly BBM'd our friends a pic of our new pretty microwave that we had purchased with their gift card. We got home and Dave unpacked "the pretty one"...

We then tried it out in a million different positions/angles/locations on the kitchen counter, only to agree that it looked bulky and there wasn't a good spot in the kitchen.

Well how about the basement storage room?

Hmmm.

We really only use the microwave for Dave's beloved popcorn and very very rarely for heating up leftovers. It wouldn't really be that inconvenient to keep the microwave downstairs. Then again, "the pretty one" cost a pretty penny and it seemed silly to stow it away in the basement.

Being the super productive mover-inners (made a word!) that we are, we packed "the pretty one" back in its box and left it there for a day, or two or three. Which brings us to last Wednesday when Dave purchased a new less expensive, slightly less pretty, basement-worthy microwave. (It's the evil-Bart of microwaves, if you will).

After a few hours of catching up on my blog reading I ventured down to the ~~basement~~ mancave only to discover the new microwave was set up in there and it was popcorn time! And that, is how the microwave ended up in the mancave.

Things Dave Can't Have

2011-05-23T13:17:00.005-04:00

We have these funny shelves along the stairs leading to the basement. Cindy helpfully suggested a while back that Dave use them to display his many trophies and plaques. Knowing me as well as they do, Cindy and Dave also knew that I wouldn't be on board.

Last Sunday, I came home and everything was proudly displayed on the shelves.

Ha ha ha.

"One week."

It's been a week and one day now.

Time for them to find a new home. Sorry honey.

Long Weekend To-Do List

2011-05-23T08:44:00.000-04:00

- ~~get hair done~~

- ~~pray for sunshine~~

- ~~help Deb & Ian move in to their new place~~ (WOO HOO!)

- ~~sand the walk-in closet~~

- paint the walk-in closet

- find new light fixtures for the kitchen or at least re-install the old ones

- ~~pick up the living room couch from DercoratorMom and Daddy's house~~

- ~~hang some art (maybe)~~

- ~~hang~~ shrink some curtains

- ~~SLEEP IN~~

- ~~have an adult beverage, or two, or four~~

Have a nice weekend everybody!

Overheard

2011-05-19T09:23:00.000-04:00

Dave: "I need to book a hotel."

(Woooo hooooooo)

I'd Live Here

2011-05-18T19:43:00.004-04:00

Check out the home of Claire Cottrell (The Academy Of Archivists co-founder. Their logo is an owl, so they must be cool).

Where, you ask, did I find this lovely home full of my favorite mid-century modern chairs and vintage items that make me jealous?

In the first issue of new online magazine Collected.

I'm just gonna say it, I already like it better than Lonny.

pics via Collected

@ The New House: Living Room BEFORE

2011-05-17T07:08:00.001-04:00

The great thing about the living room is it gets lots of light from two windows that look out to the backyard. It's also open to the kitchen and has hardwood floors.

Here are a few pictures from when we first got the keys.

The ceiling got a fresh coat of white paint and the walls are now Behr Castle Path.

We used the paint and primer in one because we were using the same paint to cover up the dark green in the kitchen and the mustard tone in the hallways. I'm pleased with the paint. It went on the walls easily and covered really well in my opinion.

It's a more taupe than gray. It also happens to be a shade darker than I would have picked. But since I didn't want colour on the walls, Dave voted for darker paint.

Fresh paint! Moving day mess.

We're getting there. Progress, a week later.

The living room has gotten much tidyier over the last week, but this corner is about all that I'm ready to show you. The new chairs look great with my $20 DIY trunk and the console table from LaZboy.

Sweat Shop Saturday

2011-05-16T08:06:00.000-04:00

Saturday May 7 was a very very very busy day at our new house. We had lots of help from our friends and family. We couldn't have done it with out them. It's amazing how much we got done even in just one day, let alone the last week.

Dave and his mom, Cindy, worked tirelessly in the front and back yards. They re-edged all the gardens, put down about 40 bags of dirt and filled more than 15 yard waste bags. Our friends Ian and Nelson also helped in the yard and set up our new rain barrel as well as storage shelves in the basement.

Chris and Nicole were a huge help, they got all the shelves down in our walk-in closet and began patching. They also installed the new ceiling fan in our bedroom and removed all the baseboards on the main floor.

DecoratorMom worked really hard at painting. Then she tested the bathroom mirror to make sure it was working. There's Susan in the background working on the walk-in closet.

We even squeezed in a lunch on the back deck. But by that point we were too hungry to remember to snap pictures.

Key Day

2011-05-15T06:39:00.004-04:00

It feels like such a long time ago already, but it's only been a little over a week.

On Friday May 6, as soon as I got out of work I picked up the house keys from our lawyer's office and we got there as soon as we could to have a look around.

Someone's excited!

Then it was off to Home Depot for paint (7 cans!) and other supplies, and then Rona because we forgot a few things. (And also a trip to Canadian Tire that evening as well). Let's just say we're quickly becoming very familiar with the aisles of our local hardware and home improvement stores.

"Oh no! I forgot to take pictures at Home Depot. Quick, pose."

"Hmmmm, what to do with the guest room."

"Must stay hydrated."

Our friends Nelson and Ian dropped by before baseball.

Friday night I took lots of "before" shots. We also removed nails, drapes and hardware from the walls and spackled the holes left behind so that we could paint right away Saturday.

Showing off his new backyard/fave project

Frat house fridge. Lots of fuel/motivation for all our helpers

This was only the beginning of an exhausting (but very exciting) weekend.

We're Back In Business

2011-05-14T18:22:00.004-04:00

Dave could tell I was jonesing to get online again, so after a very busy Saturday he set up my computer for me in the freshly painted office.

I just finished transferring all the pictures from the past week on to my computer and I'm excited to share the good, the bad and the ugly of our moving process.

We're very lucky, and so grateful to all our friends and family for their help. Everyone has been unbelievable.

@ The New House: Kitchen

2011-05-11T08:07:00.002-04:00

We love that the kitchen is open to the living room and it has a lot more cupboards than the condo. It also gets lots of natural light from the walk-out to the backyard and the big window next to the table.We don't love the green colour on the walls, or the counter tops.

Luckily, the kitchen is getting the biggest makeover in the whole house. And I'm excited because tonight we have an in-home consultation for the new counter tops and possibly re-facing the cabinets.

Last week Apartment Therapy featured a makeover similar to what we have planned. The kitchen belongs to Kimberley from Restoration House. I was really excited to see that she's from Ontario, Canada, like me. Have a look at her site, she has a beautiful home.

pics via AT

Just in case you need a reminder of some more inspiration for our new kitchen, have a look at these.

Overheard

2011-05-06T17:14:00.000-04:00

Me: You realize I'm going to take a ton of pictures at Home Depot, right?

WOOO HOOOOOOOOO!

2011-05-06T07:39:00.002-04:00

It's finally ours!We're picking up the keys to the new house this afternoon. We're going to go over and have a look then head to Home Depot for paint and other goodies.

We can't wait to get to work this weekend with the help of family and friends.

There will be lots of pictures to share next week!

I hope everyone else has a safe and happy weekend.

Penne With Goat Cheese, Zucchini & Chicken

2011-05-05T06:50:00.002-04:00

Months and months ago on The Food Network I saw Giada De Laurentiis cooking a yummy pasta dish with goat cheese, butternut squash and walnuts. It's been stuck in my brain since then.

Since I don't like to follow recipes and, well, Thursday night I was too lazy to bother roasting the squash but I decided to make use of goat cheese and pasta we already had at home. A quick google found me another recipe for penne with herbed zucchini and goat cheese...

Introducing: Also known as "I'm Not A Food Stylist"

Ingredients:

6 ounces penne or other tubular pasta (I like Catelli Smart penne)
3 medium zucchini
1 large garlic clove
2 teaspoons mixed fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, and marjoram leaves
2 ounces (1/4 cup) soft mild goat cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparation:

Fill a 4-quart kettle three-fourths full with salted water and bring water to a boil for pasta.
Halve zucchini lengthwise and cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Thinly slice garlic lengthwise and finely chop herbs. Crumble goat cheese.
In a heavy skillet heat oil over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking and sauté zucchini, stirring, until browned and just tender. Stir in garlic and herbs and sauté, stirring, 1 minute.
Cook pasta in boiling water until al dente and reserve 1 cup cooking water. Drain pasta in a colander and in a bowl toss with zucchini mixture, cheese, 1/4 cup reserved cooking water, and salt and pepper to taste, adding additional reserved cooking water if necessary.

Sounds pretty yummy, huh?

Totally not what I ended up with.

I repeat: "I do not like to follow recipes."

Fun fact: When I first moved out of my parents' house, almost every night, I would send them pictures from my phone of my dinner to prove that I was actually cooking. (I was reminded of this as I took the pictures for today's post)

I added chicken and extra garlic, of course. I didn't use any fresh herbs, I probably should have added some more salt and pepper. It was still pretty yummy though.

Simple and easy, toss it all together. By the way, I didn't measure anything. I rarely do. I'm a badass like that.

Seriously, I am not a food stylist. DecoratorMom will probably suggest more colour. Next time I'll double the amount of zucchini and maybe add peppers or shredded carrots.

My Name Is Krista, And I Like To Eat

2011-05-04T18:38:00.003-04:00

How much do I like to eat?

Very much.

So much so, that I happen to be enjoying my second ice cream cone of the day in my profile picture.

I've been known to bust out a happy dance over something as simple as chips and dip, as special as favorite homemade dishes or a trip to a restaurant. I'll stay up past midnight to watch Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. I like grocery shopping.

I love to eat.

I also like to cook. Luckily, so does Dave.

I've mentioned that there are some big plans and changes for the blog coming soon and one of those little tidbits is that Dave is going to participate a little bit more. We're also going to be posting more about cooking.

Keep your eyes peeled for new posts about Recipe Test Drives and Kitchen Confessions coming soon.

Guest Post!

2011-05-04T09:01:00.000-04:00

I'm over at Welcome To Hearmont today, filling in for Meredith.

May The Fouth Be With You

2011-05-04T08:33:00.000-04:00

pics via Hello Wars

Happy Star Wars Day Nick!

Can't Wait

2011-05-01T15:50:00.004-04:00

It's Box City up in here.

We've started packing and I can hardly believe I'm boxing up all my things and moving all over again.

Today marks one week until we're all moved in to the new house. Can't wait to be settled and stay put for a while. Four postal codes in less than a year is too many.

It's A Conspiracy

2011-04-29T17:33:00.002-04:00

Every time I'm really excited about a big online purchase, I'm foiled by shipping issues. Last time it was my living room chairs that I couldn't order from Target, but then I found them on CSNstores.com. The chairs are mine and I'm a happy girl.

I received a decent tax return in the mail this week and decided to treat myself to a cute new bike.

So I had a look at the beach cruisers on CSN and a few caught my eye.

I've seen the Nirve beach cruisers before and really liked them. They offer Paul Frank and Hello Kitty themed bikes, some of my favorite characters. Unfortunately a lot of the ones I like are out of stock. Then when I decided to get the red one above, I realized at check out that they won't ship to Canada. GRRRRR!

I'm not giving up just yet. I'll search some local bike shops and maybe look in to second hand.

pics via CSNstores.com

New Office Inspiration

2011-04-28T08:34:00.001-04:00

Just in case you've forgotten, this is the only existing "pretty" picture of my current office at the condo. (Which I'm very lucky to have, by the way).

At the new house I'll have a den area on the top floor to set up shop. It'll be much larger than the office/hallway I operate in right now.

Lots of room to spread out for sewing, crafting and blogging. Woo hoo!!

I was a very lucky birthday girl this year. Dave gifted me with the For Like Ever poster and not one, but two deer trophies from Cardboard Safari. I've been coveting those items forever.

I've already got a Socker plant pots for holding pens and markers, a Forsa lamp, Vika Alex drawers and a Vika Amon desk top, from Ikea. I'm hoping to pick up an Expedit shelving unit as well and a pink Eames knock off chair.

Whipped up on Olioboard

Pink pink pink! And of course some Hello Kitty items that I've collected in my recent travels. I'm sure I'll have the new office stocked with girly stuff and crafting items in no time.

Overheard

2011-04-27T09:56:00.001-04:00

Me: "Honey, we should get a rain barrel!"

Dave: "What did you say?" (Hockey playoffs are on, everything must be repeated)

Me: "We. Should. Get. A. Rain. Barrel."

By the way, someone has caught on to the "overheard" posts and followed my lead.

Beauty Career Dropout

2011-04-27T08:06:00.001-04:00

I semi-retired from hairstyling in 2008, but I'm always on the look out for new products and things "hair-related". This poster by PopChartLab caught my eye on Etsy yesterday.

And while we're on the topic of all things frizzy and fashionable, what do you guys think about me posting more regularly on things like hair, makeup, and fashion?

pic via PopChartLab

Exciting News:

2011-04-26T12:48:00.002-04:00

Cindy's married to a genius, and she's blogging about it.

Check out Dave's mom's new blog.

I'd Live Here

2011-04-26T09:41:00.000-04:00

Although, how long I could tolerate sky blue walls is debatable.

pics via Design*Sponge

Overheard

2011-04-25T08:35:00.003-04:00

Dave: "What's a wine barrister?"

Me: "I don't know, but we just bought one and we're picking it up tomorrow."

Happy Easter!

2011-04-21T08:28:00.002-04:00

Me thinks I'm gonna take a blog break until Monday.

Hope you all have a great long weekend with friends and family.

P.S. Only three more weeks until we get possession of the new house!

pic via We Heart It

I'd Live Here

2011-04-20T07:38:00.001-04:00

pics via Design*Sponge

Truelove Restored

2011-04-19T09:06:00.001-04:00

Dave, me, Matt, Shawnna, Jasmine

My cousin's wife Shawnna, a hilarious and beautiful interior design graduate, has started a new Etsy business refinishing old furniture and giving it new life.

pics via

Truelove Restored

Oops!

2011-04-18T19:55:00.002-04:00

Chances are no one noticed, but I accidentally changed the address of the blog today. After a moment of panic, I fixed things and Hopeless Chest is back in business...

But not for long.

Back in the day, when I was perpetually single, living in my parents' basement, stockpiling dishes and furniture for an eventual move, Hopeless Chest was a fitting title. I'm not so hopeless anymore. Now that Dave and I are only weeks away from moving in to our new house, I've decided that it's time for a revamp of the blog.

A new name and design is coming your way. (And maybe even an Esty shop ... that one is keeping me away at night)

But don't worry, you'll have plenty of notice to change your feeds and bookmarks.

photo source

Crazy Bird Lady Post #415

2011-04-18T09:22:00.001-04:00

I promised that I wouldn't buy anything else for the house before we move. I've been very good in sticking to this promise, however, I have bookmarked about a million things since then. Who knows what kind of binge I might go on once May rolls around. Perhaps I'll have to hide my own credit card.

Watercolour by LorisWorld

Watercolour by Studio Tuesday

Ink & Digital Drawing by Groundwork

ALMOST THERE!

2011-04-16T09:20:00.000-04:00

The contest is almost over, it ends 11:59pm on Sunday night. We've been pretty constant in the top 10 but it's getting really close now so I need as many of you to vote as possible, each day! We could really really use this makeover, since our closet at the new house is strangely laid out with only one hanging bar and some shelves. It will barely fit clothes for one of us let alone two. I would really appreciate it if you guys would follow the link to vote.

Follow the link, and click the round purple vote button. You'll need to enter an email address, so they can send you a confirmation link. But you do not need to sign up for the newsletter. You can vote once per day per email address up until April 17.

Ontario residents: Every vote enters YOU for a $100 gift card to Mapleview Mall.

Thanks again for all your help!

Click here to VOTE!

And if you feel so inclined to tweet or post the link to me to friends and fellow bloggers, I'll be forever greatful. If we will I'll do an awesome giveaway.

I'd Live Here

2011-04-15T18:34:00.000-04:00

Puppy on the counter included!

pics via Design*Sponge

Fashionable Fridays

2011-04-15T09:20:00.000-04:00

I'm seeing a lot of Spring fashion round ups lately. Nicole from Making It Lovely pointed out something lacking from my wardrobe... A trench coat. Seems like I might need to make a trip to my nearest Zara to hunt for this red one, only $89!

pic via Zara

I'd Live Here

2011-04-14T18:20:00.001-04:00

Penny & Mark's

Charles & Greg's

all pics via Apartment Therapy

New York: Day 3

2011-04-14T08:30:00.000-04:00

Sunday was our last day in New York City. At that point I was pretty pooped (as if you can't tell from the picture) and my feet were about ready to fall off. Unfortunately I didn't take as many pictures. That morning we took the subway to Times Square and loaded up on souvenirs and grabbed some treats for breakfast at a deli.

Then we I limped back to Bloomingdales for some more last minute shopping.

One of the best parts about the trip was taking the subway all over the place and getting to people watch. There are all kinds of crazy there.

We had an absolutely amazing time. Whenever I visit NYC I can't get over how busy it is in the city and how stressful it must be to get around some days. We take for granted things like a dishwasher, cars, parking lots, or even square footage.

Now that we're home, there's lots to do to get ready for the big move.

Small Cool Round Up

2011-04-13T17:44:00.007-04:00

I think I'm pretty well caught up on Apartment Therapy's 7th Anual Small Cool contestants, so far. Here are a few of my favorite pics.

all pics via Apartment Therapy

New York: Day 2

2011-04-13T17:44:00.002-04:00

Saturday morning we made our way through the Upper West side and took a very unorganized route through Central Park to get to the American Museum of Natural History. Before we entered the museum we enjoyed a hot dog for ~~breakfast~~ brunch out front. Not exactly nutrious, but it was delicious.

I finally found the John Lennon memorial!

Breakfast time on the museum steps.

Dinosaur butt.

After the museum we hopped back on the double decker bus tour, through the Upper East Side, Harlem and back around the park. After that Dave outshopped me at Bloomindales.

Dinner on Saturday night was a reccomendation from Molly of Saved The Best For Last. Mia Dona was fantastic. Thanks again Molly!

We Heart Schiller's

2011-04-13T08:02:00.001-04:00

Friday night, for my birthday dinner in NYC we visited Schiller's Liquor Bar and it was probably the highlight of our trip.

We heard about Schiller's on the Food Network show "The Best Thing I Ever Ate" when Rocco DiSpirito talked about their garlic shrimp. I'll eat just about anything with garlic and the rest of the menu sounded delicious, so we made a reservation.

Everything about our dinner at Schiller's was great. It felt local and not touristy, which we appreciated. Also, it didn't cost an arm and a leg. The staff were friendly, the decor and ambience were awesome, the food was AMAZING! Their garlic shrimp did not dissapoint. Everything else was yummy too. Dave had pork chops and roasted potatoes and I had a pasta special. Unfortunately, we didn't have any room left for dessert but we did enjoy their cocktail menu. I reccommend the Country Lemonade.

Here's a few pictures of the interior. The hexagon and subway tiles caught my eye, of course. I always love a vintage vibe. I even raved about the bathroom decor.

pics 1, 2, 3, 4 via NYmag

pics 5, 6, 7 via A Design Affair

If you're in New York City check Schiller's Liquor Bar out. I hope you'll like it as much as we did.

New York: Day 1

2011-04-12T19:40:00.001-04:00

Feast your eyes on the awesomeness that was New York City!

We arrived Friday right before lunch and dropped off our bags, then we hit the town running.

One of the first stores we walked by was Tiffany & Co. *meow* Dave was not impressed as he posed for the photo. But miracle of miracles, I never named him go inside, not Friday or the entire weekend.

We got to Times Square and started a double decker bus tour. It's a neat way to see a lot of the city and I really enjoyed the tour when DecoratorMom and I did it on my first visit to NYC (15 years ago for my 13th). It's fun to hear the history and little tidbits from the bus tour guides. (It's even more fun when your guide doesn't have the most irritating voice on the planet.)

OWL!

Yes, I took about 5 dozen pictures of architecture alone.

We had lunch at Katz Delicatessan. (Where Harry Met Sally)

Mmmm Knoblewurst!

Good food, but crazy busy, even at 2 in the afternoon.

Bowery Park.

FAO Schwartz - We took these for our brothers. Star Wars for Nick, and Lego for Andrew.

Chewy!

Rockefeller Center

Our last stop of the evening was my birthday dinner at Schiller's Liquor Bar.

Stay tuned for more pics tomorrow.

Overheard

2011-04-11T08:04:00.000-04:00

pic via New York Times

Me: Honey, what do you think about painting the part of the kitchen that's already dark green, dark gray? ... Wait, never mind, the chairs will be dark gray... Alright, good talk. As you were. Dave: Glad I could help.

Happy Birthday To Me

2011-04-08T08:36:00.001-04:00

I'm 28 years young today...

And we're headed for NYC!

See you in a few days.

I'd Live Here

2011-04-07T16:05:00.000-04:00

Is it Canadian week on Design*Sponge, and I didn't get the memo?

pics via Design*Sponge

Lightbulb Moment

2011-04-07T08:22:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend I was browsing some new (to me) blogs and came across this picture, at left, on I Go By Katie. Instantly I knew what to do with the shelf my Opa made for me about a thousand years ago. It's been sitting empty next to my desk for months now. When I was little it housed all my miniature animal figurines. It'll look great in my new office/sewing room filled with thread.