As August unfolds, a collective sigh might escape us – it’s almost September, signaling the unofficial end of summer, and before we know it, the festive jingle bells of Christmas will be ringing. While such thoughts might induce a momentary panic, we find immense value in slowing down, even just for a second, to reflect on the exciting journey we undertook last month. This retrospective isn’t merely a nostalgic trip; it’s a powerful way to sustain momentum, celebrate accomplishments, and rekindle the passion that drives our projects. By revisiting our July highlights, along with some exclusive, never-before-seen content, we draw renewed inspiration to keep pushing forward, tackling new challenges, and transforming spaces. Such monthly roundups also serve as an invaluable resource for our readers and ourselves, simplifying the navigation of our archives. Imagine delving into years of creative endeavors, from January 2011 onwards, condensed into easily digestible posts rather than sifting through hundreds of individual updates. It’s a testament to the continuous evolution of our home and our craft, making every step of the journey count. So, let’s dive into the standout moments and cherished memories that defined our vibrant July.
Most Likely To Go Mad: The Deck Digging Saga
This award goes to me, wholeheartedly, after what felt like an endless marathon of digging holes for our new deck foundation. The sheer physical exertion, especially during the relentless summer heat, was enough to test anyone’s sanity. Our initial attempts faced a setback when the county inspector, after a thorough review, unfortunately failed our first round of digging. This meant revisiting every single hole, deepening them, and ensuring they met the stringent structural requirements, a task that demanded immense patience and an even greater supply of elbow grease. This unexpected hurdle transformed a standard DIY project into an epic test of perseverance, highlighting the unforeseen challenges that often accompany home improvement endeavors. Yet, the vision of a beautiful, functional outdoor living space kept us motivated through the dirt and sweat.
Best Lungs: Katie Bower’s Summer Pinterest Challenge Anthem
Our dear friend Katie Bower truly earned this accolade with her spirited performance in the video launching the Summer Pinterest Challenge. Her enthusiasm was infectious, reaching impressive decibel levels whether she was shouting excitedly from a tractor or exuberantly yelling down a waterslide. Her boundless energy perfectly captured the fun and creative spirit of the Pinterest Challenge, inspiring countless participants to dive into their own DIY projects. It was a hilarious contradiction that despite her powerful vocalizations, the sounds of “The Winds of Africa” managed to render her surprisingly inaudible at times, adding to the charm and humor of the segment. This video became a memorable kick-off to a season of crafting, painting, and transforming Pinterest dreams into tangible realities.
Sexiest Accent: Jae’s High-Contrast Kitchen Window Sash
During our Atlanta house-crashing adventure, Jae’s home immediately captivated us, particularly this striking design detail. The decision to paint her kitchen window sash a bold black against softer surroundings created an incredible high-contrast pop that was both unexpected and absolutely stunning. It’s a brilliant example of how a single, seemingly small alteration can dramatically elevate a space, adding depth, character, and a touch of modern sophistication. This simple yet impactful DIY project resonated deeply with our design philosophy, proving that you don’t always need an expensive overhaul to achieve a “sexy” and memorable aesthetic. It became an instant inspiration for those looking to add a dramatic focal point without extensive renovation.
Most Shameless: Filming at Goodwill with Sherry and Katie Bower
This award goes to Sherry and Katie Bower, who demonstrated admirable composure and commitment to content creation while filming a video right in the bustling aisles of a Goodwill store. Despite shoppers milling about, occasionally walking directly into the frame, they remained completely unfazed, chatting away and showcasing their thrift store finds with infectious enthusiasm. Their willingness to embrace the chaos and humor of the situation was truly commendable, highlighting the authenticity and relatability that our community cherishes. This moment was a perfect representation of the spontaneous, fun-loving spirit behind our DIY adventures and the joy of finding hidden gems in unexpected places, even if it means filming amidst curious onlookers.
Modern Shakespeare Award: Sisqo’s “Thong Song” & the Crayon Truck
Who knew a crayon-holding truck, discovered at a Georgia Goodwill, could lead to a nod to Sisqo, the one-hit-wonder behind the iconic “Thong Song”? In a moment of playful nostalgia, we referenced his esteemed lyrics in a post about this quirky find. It seems many of you shared our appreciation for this catchy tune, as the comments section lit up with joyous — or perhaps slightly exasperated — declarations of the song now being irrevocably stuck in your heads. We couldn’t resist the temptation to do it again, solidifying this truck’s place in our blogging hall of fame. It’s a testament to how even the most unexpected thrift store treasures can spark fun, lighthearted discussions and connect us through shared pop culture references, proving that a little silliness can go a long way.
Oldest: Our $150 Craigslist Sideboard Treasure
This beautiful sideboard, a true Craigslist score at just $150, proudly claims the title of “Oldest” among our recent finds. Its acquisition officially marked our complete embrace of the “every room should have something old” design philosophy. Incorporating vintage or antique pieces into modern decor adds layers of character, history, and warmth that new furniture simply can’t replicate. We’re thrilled to be on this “train” – a much more appealing journey than the hypothetical “every room should have some mold” train, which, thankfully, this mold-free sideboard unequivocally avoids! This piece, with its timeless appeal and incredible value, perfectly embodies our love for budget-friendly finds that tell a story and infuse personality into our home.
Most Challenging: The Summer Pinterest Challenge Results
Of course, the Pinterest Challenge results took the cake for “Most Challenging” – not because of the difficulty of the projects themselves, but due to the sheer volume of creativity and inspiration it unleashed! This marked the fourth installment of our beloved challenge, and this time, Sherry bravely ventured into the world of DIY abstract art. The results were nothing short of spectacular, but even more impressive was the incredible community response. Over 600 of you linked up your own Pinterest-inspired projects, showcasing an astounding array of talent and innovative ideas. This challenge consistently pushes our creative boundaries and fosters a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to try their hand at transforming their homes with a little DIY magic. It’s truly inspiring to witness so many individuals turn their virtual pins into real-life masterpieces.
Least Challenging: Simple Wood Frames for Pinterest Art
In delightful contrast to the “Most Challenging” Pinterest creations, these simple wood frames I quickly constructed easily earned the “Least Challenging” title. The goal was to craft a minimalist, functional housing for Sherry’s vibrant new abstract artwork, using the simplest and most basic steps possible. Sometimes, the beauty of DIY lies in its straightforward execution, and these frames were a testament to that philosophy. They provided the perfect understated backdrop, allowing the artwork to truly shine without any unnecessary frills or complex joinery. It was a gratifying project that underscored the importance of balance in DIY – from grand renovations to small, quick wins, every project contributes to the overall charm and functionality of a home.
The Math Geek Award: Arithmetic Art at Pottery Barn Outlet
This award affectionately goes to the unique arithmetic-themed art we discovered during our delightful window shopping excursion to the Pottery Barn Outlet and Mary Jo’s fabric store. Among a myriad of captivating decor items, this piece stood out for its intellectual charm, blending aesthetic appeal with mathematical precision. It wasn’t the only intriguing item we spotted that day, but it certainly was the most “geeky” in the best possible way. This find highlighted our appreciation for unconventional art that sparks conversation and adds a sophisticated, thoughtful touch to any interior. It’s a reminder that inspiration can strike in the most unexpected corners, and sometimes, the most interesting decor speaks to more than just visual beauty.
The Zoology Award: Toads, Not Frogs, in the Deck Holes
To all you brilliant “smarties” in our community, this one’s for you! Your keen eyes and gentle corrections earned you the Zoology Award. When I shared my tales of rescuing small creatures from the depths of my deck holes, many of you sweetly pointed out that these amphibians were, in fact, toads, not frogs. While all toads are technically a type of frog, I extend my sincerest apologies to any toads I may have offended by addressing them too generally! This humorous misidentification became a charming moment of collective learning and highlighted the wonderful, knowledgeable spirit of our readers. It also served as a funny reminder of the unexpected wildlife encounters that often accompany outdoor DIY and construction projects.
Most Welcoming: Julie’s Breezy and Bright Entryway
Julie’s house, another fantastic stop on our Atlanta house-crashing tour, truly embodied the essence of “Most Welcoming,” largely thanks to her absolutely stunning entryway. Bright, airy, and beautifully styled, it immediately put us at ease and made us feel right at home. It seems we weren’t alone in our admiration; her entryway became a major talking point, garnering much adoration from our readers. This space perfectly showcased how thoughtful design, strategic lighting, and well-chosen decor can create an inviting first impression, setting the tone for the entire home. It served as a powerful reminder that an entryway is more than just a pass-through; it’s an opportunity to create a warm and engaging welcome for all who enter.
Grossest: Post-Attic Light Fixture Centering Me
This award, undoubtedly, belongs to me after my triumphant but utterly disgusting return from the sweltering attic. The task at hand: centering the light fixture in our bathroom. What sounds simple on paper became an endurance test in the oppressive heat of the attic, working in tight, dusty, and suffocating conditions. I emerged from that confined space in a state I can only describe as the “grossest” I’ve ever felt – dripping with sweat, covered in insulation dust, and completely physically and mentally drained. It was a stark reminder of the less glamorous, often grueling, side of home improvement. Yet, the satisfaction of a perfectly centered light fixture in our renovated bathroom made every uncomfortable moment worth it, proving that some DIY victories are hard-won.
Most Improved-ish: Our Master Bathroom Mini-Makeover
Our bathroom claimed the “Most Improved-ish” title after we proudly declared its mini-makeover officially complete. This transformation wasn’t about a full gut renovation, but rather a series of smart, small, and incredibly inexpensive improvements that collectively made a huge impact. We meticulously tackled updates like installing a new, more efficient toilet, upgrading the lighting fixtures for better ambiance and functionality, and adding stylish new accent tiles that brought a fresh, modern feel to the space. The grand total for this impressive upgrade? A remarkable $230! This budget-friendly approach proved that significant aesthetic improvements are entirely achievable without breaking the bank. It’s definitely enough to tide us over until we gather the appetite (and budget) for a more extensive overhaul in the future.
Sneakiest: Our Week-Long Beach Escape
We earn the “Sneakiest” award for successfully slipping away for a blissful week at the beach earlier this month. In the demanding world of blogging and DIY, finding time for relaxation and rejuvenation is crucial, and sometimes a little stealth is required! The beauty of modern technology allowed us to maintain our blogging presence, keeping you updated and engaged even while soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. There’s a special kind of magic in crafting blog posts from the comfort of an iPhone, isn’t there? This well-deserved getaway provided the perfect opportunity to recharge our creative batteries and return with fresh perspectives for our upcoming projects, reminding us of the importance of work-life balance.
Biggest Heart: A Community’s Comfort and Aunt Kay Kay’s Memory
This award is a tie, recognizing both Sherry’s cherished Aunt Kay Kay and every single one of you who extended such comforting and heartfelt comments during a difficult time. When Sherry shared the poignant news of her aunt’s passing, the outpouring of love, empathy, and support from our community was truly overwhelming. It was a profound testament to the deep connection and compassionate spirit that defines our readership. In moments of grief, knowing you have such a caring network of individuals, even those you’ve never met in person, offers immense solace. This experience reaffirmed the beautiful, supportive bond we share, illustrating that beyond DIY projects and home tours, our platform fosters genuine human connection and shared emotional experiences. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on each other’s lives.
Most Angelic: Clara Bathed in Light with the Sideboard
Our sweet Clara effortlessly claimed the “Most Angelic” title in this enchanting photograph. Bathed in soft, ethereal light, she seemed to glow as Sherry captured images of our recently acquired Craigslist sideboard, now beautifully styled and “dressed up.” This candid moment perfectly encapsulated the joy and warmth that our home, and our projects, bring to our family life. It’s a tender reminder that amidst all the renovation dust and DIY hustle, the true magic lies in the moments shared with loved ones. The picture not only showcased the charming transformation of a thrifted piece but also captured a serene and beautiful snapshot of childhood, blending everyday life with our creative pursuits in the most heartwarming way.
Most Decisive: Bedroom Paint Swatch Selection
We awarded ourselves “Most Decisive” for our surprisingly swift choice between the two gray test swatches applied to our bedroom wall. Selecting the perfect paint color can often feel like an agonizing decision, with countless shades blending into one another. However, on this occasion, the choice was almost instantaneous. While Benjamin Moore’s “Moonshine” offered a lovely light hue, it simply didn’t possess the depth we envisioned for this space. We quickly gravitated towards the richer, more enveloping shade that promised to create the moody, cozy atmosphere we desired. This decisive moment felt incredibly satisfying, proving that sometimes, when you know, you just know, and moving forward with confidence is key in any design decision.
Most High Tech: Bedroom Repainting Time-Lapse Setup
Our “fancy-schmancy” setup for creating a time-lapse video of repainting our bedroom a deeper gray color earned us the “Most High Tech” award. With a laptop precariously teetering atop a stack of furniture, serving as our makeshift camera rig, we embarked on capturing the transformation. The objective was to showcase the dramatic shift to Benjamin Moore’s “Rockport Gray,” a rich, sophisticated shade that promised to imbue the room with a sense of calm and moodiness. Despite the unconventional equipment, the resulting time-lapse perfectly conveyed the effort and satisfaction of painting a room. We’re pretty sure this ingenious (if slightly precarious) cinematography deserves an Oscar – or at least a nod for creative problem-solving in DIY videography!
Thriftiest: Sherry’s Bethany Beach Thrift Store Tour
Sherry proudly took home the “Thriftiest” award after her incredibly successful tour of thrift stores and other charming shops during our vacation in Bethany Beach, Delaware. There’s a unique thrill in hunting for hidden gems in unfamiliar towns, and Sherry has an undeniable knack for unearthing treasures. Her keen eye for potential, coupled with her budget-conscious approach, resulted in some fantastic finds that perfectly complemented our evolving home decor. This thrifting adventure was not just about saving money; it was about discovering one-of-a-kind pieces that tell a story, adding character and personality that cannot be replicated by mass-produced items. It’s an inspiring testament to the fact that style doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Messiest: Color Me Rad 5K and Cornstarch Canvas
This award for “Messiest” was undeniably shared between me and my little sister after we joyfully participated in the Color Me Rad 5K here in Richmond. As our bodies became living canvases, coated head-to-toe in vibrant colored cornstarch, it sparked a brilliant idea for Sherry. Rather than simply washing away the vibrant hues, she ingeniously utilized the leftover colored powder to create a unique piece of abstract art on a canvas. This fun, albeit incredibly messy, experience not only provided a memorable personal adventure but also inspired a spontaneous burst of creativity, proving that sometimes the most unconventional materials can lead to the most interesting artistic expressions. It was a beautiful blend of fitness, fun, and unexpected art.
Most Unusual: The $30 Salvation Army Egg Chair
Our local Salvation Army yielded a truly “Most Unusual” find: this incredible egg chair-ish swiveling papasan chair, snagged for an unbelievable $30. While it was in desperate need of some tender loving care (TLC), its unique, iconic design and incredible potential were immediately apparent. Compared to the often exorbitant prices of similar vintage or replica chairs in retail stores, this was a steal that offered immense possibilities for a DIY transformation. This chair perfectly embodies our love for uncovering hidden gems in thrift stores – pieces that possess character and design flair but require a little vision and effort to bring them back to life. It’s now poised to become a striking statement piece in our home, once its makeover is complete.
Most Secret-tive: Design Foreshadowing in Our Home
Our post exploring the concept of “design foreshadowing” in our house quickly became one of our “Most Secret-tive” and intriguing discussions. Many readers ingeniously connected our observations to the “law of attraction,” popularized by the book The Secret, suggesting that perhaps we subconsciously manifested our design preferences. Others offered compelling theories of subliminal decorating or simply attributed it to the “you-like-what-you-like” phenomenon, where consistent preferences naturally emerge over time. It was fascinating to delve into everyone’s diverse theories and interpretations of how personal style evolves and manifests within a living space. This engaging conversation highlighted the deeper, almost philosophical, aspects of home design, moving beyond mere aesthetics to explore the psychology behind our decorating choices.
Best Moves: The Deck Joist Jig of Progress
After weeks of meticulous planning, digging, and foundational work, the installation of the deck joists marked a significant milestone, prompting my impromptu “hooray, I can actually kind of stand here” jig. This spontaneous dance on the recently joist-filled deck captured the genuine excitement and immense satisfaction that comes with seeing tangible progress on a large-scale DIY project. It was a moment where the abstract plans and hard labor began to materialize into a functional structure, transforming a dirt patch into the beginnings of a beautiful outdoor living space. This “Best Moves” award celebrates that pivotal feeling of accomplishment and the renewed motivation it brings to power through the remaining stages of construction.
Most Animal Friendly: The White Painted Egg Chair’s Menagerie
Our thrift store egg chair, magnificently transformed by Sherry with a fresh coat of white paint, surprisingly became the “Most Animal Friendly” spot in our home! It seems its inviting, modern aesthetic attracted a charming menagerie of decorative creatures. From a majestic rhino and a playful pig to a tiny chihuahua, a cuddly rabbit, and even a dog sporting stylish sunglasses, this revamped chair became the focal point for a whimsical display of animal figurines. This playful styling choice added a delightful touch of personality and humor to the space, proving that even a simple piece of furniture can become a canvas for creative expression and a magnet for charming, unexpected decor elements that bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Most Tedious: Deck Preparations Before Board Laying
The “Most Tedious” award goes to the multitude of small, yet absolutely crucial, preparations required for the deck before we could even dream of laying down the first deck board. Tasks like meticulously adding blocking between joists, ensuring every measurement was precise, and making countless small adjustments felt painstakingly slow. It’s often these unglamorous, behind-the-scenes steps that demand the most patience and attention to detail in any construction project. While the desire to simply “lay some darn decking already” was strong, we knew that skipping these vital preparatory stages would compromise the integrity and longevity of our deck. This tedious phase underscored the importance of solid foundations, both literal and metaphorical, in achieving a successful and durable DIY outcome.
Most Likely To Make You Crave Waffles: Wedding Registry Advice
A post from earlier this week, sharing our insightful take on the “dos and don’ts” of wedding registries, unexpectedly earned the title of “Most Likely To Make You Crave Waffles.” While we personally decided to skip the waffle maker when compiling our own registry, the lively discussion that unfolded in the comments section had a profound effect. Readers passionately shared their love for this kitchen appliance, extolling the virtues of homemade waffles, leading to a collective craving that resonated deeply. Suddenly, our stomachs were aching for some crispy, golden goodness! This delightful outcome showcased the power of community engagement and how reader interactions can lead to the most delicious and unforeseen consequences, proving that a good discussion can leave a lasting, flavorful impression.
Most Stylish: The Anticipation of Our Upcoming Giveaway
This award for “Most Stylish” is reserved for an eagerly anticipated announcement: whoever emerges as the lucky winner of our coming Monday’s giveaway! While we’re keeping the exact details under wraps for now, let’s just say the image below offers a tantalizing hint of the stylish treasure awaiting one fortunate reader. We love creating opportunities to give back to our amazing community, and this particular giveaway promises to add a touch of elegance and flair to someone’s home. Keep your eyes peeled for Monday’s post, where all will be revealed! It’s our way of saying thank you for your continued support and for being an integral part of our DIY journey and stylish adventures.
So, as we close the chapter on a bustling July, filled with everything from gritty deck work to creative art projects and heartfelt reflections, we turn to you. What was the story of your past month? Did you experience some summer highs, perhaps some unexpected lows, or even some amusing encounters with local wildlife, like our friendly toads? We’d love to hear about your own adventures and accomplishments. Share your highlights in the comments below, and let’s continue to inspire each other with our home improvement journeys and everyday triumphs.