As March gracefully exits the stage, leaving us all eagerly anticipating the warmth and vibrancy of spring, it’s the perfect moment to pause and reflect on the accomplishments of the shortest month, February. For any creative endeavor, whether it’s renovating a home or nurturing a passion project, taking stock of progress is crucial for maintaining momentum and celebrating the journey. February, though brief, was packed with significant milestones for us: from much-needed travel detoxes that grounded us back in our cozy abode, to impactful hallway upgrades, and continuous progress on Clara’s inspiring “big-girl-room” transformation. This recap, presented in our signature yearbook superlative style, aims to highlight these memorable moments, offering insights, inspiration, and a deeper look into the stories behind each project.
If you’re keen to delve further into our past monthly chronicles, you’ll find an extensive archive of our journey and projects right here, neatly summarized across 25 comprehensive posts.
Thriftiest: The Macklemore Thrift Shop Challenge
This superlative undoubtedly goes out to our incredible community—specifically, to the over 200 participants who enthusiastically joined our spontaneous Macklemore Thrift Shop Challenge. Inspired by the hit song, the challenge was simple yet endlessly creative: find the most entertaining, quirky, or surprisingly useful items at a thrift store with a budget of just twenty dollars. The sheer ingenuity and humor displayed in your finds were truly remarkable. It wasn’t just about scoring a bargain; it was about the thrill of the hunt, the joy of repurposing, and the art of seeing potential where others might see clutter. This challenge beautifully underscored our belief that stylish home decor doesn’t require a hefty price tag. It reinforced the power of thrifting as a sustainable and budget-friendly way to personalize your space, encouraging everyone to look beyond the obvious and embrace unique, pre-loved treasures. The creativity sparked by a small budget often leads to the most unique and cherished pieces, proving that great style is accessible to all.
Most Well-Trained: Clara’s Curtain Design
We’re thrilled to award “Most Well-Trained” to our daughter, Clara, whose budding eye for design is becoming increasingly apparent. It seems she’s inheriting some of her mother’s innate instincts when it comes to textiles and patterns. This month, Clara was an active participant in selecting the fabric for her new bedroom curtains, a pivotal step in her “big girl room” transformation. Her enthusiastic choice led us to bring the beautiful fabric home, where we meticulously crafted it into custom curtains. This project wasn’t just about adding a functional element to her room; it was about empowering her creative voice and showing her that her opinions matter in shaping her personal space. The process involved measuring, cutting, and sewing, transforming a simple piece of fabric into a custom design element that perfectly complements her room’s aesthetic. The result is a vibrant, personalized touch that truly makes her room feel like her own, reflecting her emerging personality and taste. Involving children in DIY projects like this not only fosters a sense of ownership but also introduces them to practical skills and the satisfaction of seeing a vision come to life.
Most Inspiring: Jonathan Adler Color and Design
Our recent excursion to the Jonathan Adler store in Georgetown was an absolute visual feast and easily earns the “Most Inspiring” title. For our color-loving eyes, it was an explosion of vibrant hues, playful patterns, and sophisticated designs that left an indelible impression. While we didn’t make any purchases on that particular trip, the experience was invaluable. We returned home brimming with fresh ideas and newfound creative energy, particularly for how we might reimagine and infuse personality into some of our existing secondhand finds. The store served as a powerful reminder that inspiration can be found everywhere, and window shopping is a fantastic way to gather design concepts without immediate commitment. We explored various color palettes, furniture arrangements, and decorative accents, mentally cataloging possibilities for future DIY projects. This visit reinforced the idea that high-end design can often spark clever, budget-friendly adaptations, empowering us to bring sophisticated aesthetics into our home through creative upcycling and thoughtful styling. It’s an approach that combines aspirational design with practical, attainable DIY solutions, proving that a little inspiration can go a long way in transforming a space.
Most Confusing: Chalk Paint vs. Chalkboard Paint
Our post detailing our first foray into using chalk paint (specifically, to refresh the backs of Clara’s chairs) inadvertently stirred up a bit of confusion in the comments section, earning it the title of “Most Confusing.” We quickly realized that we hadn’t been explicit enough in clarifying the distinction between chalk paint and chalkboard paint – two very different products with distinct applications. Chalk paint, as we learned and quickly updated in the post, is a unique type of paint formula, much like oil-based or milk paint, known for its matte, velvety finish and excellent adhesion without extensive prep work. It’s incredibly versatile for achieving distressed or vintage looks on furniture and cabinets. However, it is not designed to be written on with actual chalk, unlike chalkboard paint, which creates a durable, writable surface. This experience was a valuable lesson in clear communication within the DIY world and highlighted the importance of precise terminology. It also showcased the vibrant engagement of our community, always eager to learn and share knowledge. While you technically *could* write on unwaxed chalk paint, it’s not its intended purpose, and applying a protective wax coat is generally recommended for durability, further differentiating it from its chalkboard counterpart.
The Worst: A Portland Key Mishap
There’s no missing word at the end of this title; “The Worst” is a succinct and fitting description for a particular travel mishap I experienced during our west coast book tour stop in Portland. This unfortunate incident involved me accidentally locking our rental car keys in the trunk. The immediate wave of panic and frustration was palpable, creating a moment of genuine travel dread. Anyone who has experienced being locked out, especially in an unfamiliar city, can attest to the stress it causes. Fortunately, as detailed in our comprehensive tour recap, this single moment of logistical chaos was an isolated incident. The rest of the trip, thankfully, unfolded with great joy, excitement, and productive engagements. This episode, while initially a source of considerable annoyance, has since become a memorable, if slightly embarrassing, anecdote from our travels. It serves as a humorous reminder that even with careful planning, unexpected challenges can arise, adding an element of unpredictability to any adventure. Sometimes, it’s these minor inconveniences that make the smoother parts of a journey even more appreciated.
Biggest Help: Clara’s DIY Skills
“Biggest Help” goes to our remarkable daughter, Clara, who once again demonstrated her burgeoning DIY prowess. This month, she bravely broke out her drill skills to assist in the precise installation of postcard ledges on the wall of her “big girl room.” It’s incredibly rewarding to watch her confidently handle tools and actively participate in creating her own space. Her enthusiasm and capability are not only adorable but genuinely helpful, making these projects shared family experiences. There’s a distinct feeling that it won’t be long until the roles reverse, and I’ll be the one lending a hand for *her* ambitious DIY projects! Involving Clara in these tasks goes beyond just getting an extra pair of hands; it instills a sense of accomplishment, teaches practical skills, and fosters a lifelong appreciation for home improvement and creativity. These ledges now serve as a dynamic display for her cherished postcards and small mementos, adding another layer of personalization and charm to her evolving room.
Least Remorseful: Embracing Decorating Mistakes
Our post dissecting the concept of buyer’s remorse in decorating earned the “Least Remorseful” title, not because we never feel it, but because we advocate for moving past it. This reflective piece openly discussed how making mistakes is an inevitable, even crucial, part of the decorating process. We candidly shared examples of our own missteps—our dining room chairs, for instance, which didn’t quite hit the mark initially—and emphasized that such experiences shouldn’t lead to paralysis or prevent us from moving forward with confidence. The underlying message was one of resilience and adaptability: if at first you don’t succeed, you adjust, you learn, and you try a different approach. This philosophy encourages a flexible mindset in home design, where perfection isn’t the goal, but rather creating a space that evolves with you. It reassures readers that it’s okay for ideas to change, for purchases to not work out, and for projects to require a second (or third) attempt. Ultimately, embracing these imperfections leads to a more authentic and personal home that truly reflects your journey.
Most Thrilling: “The Shade” Curtain Selection
As my expressive face in the photograph clearly indicates, “Most Thrilling” perfectly describes the exhilarating process of selecting various window shades for Clara’s big girl room. This wasn’t just a simple choice; we turned it into a fun, playful parody we dubbed “The Shade,” drawing inspiration from popular reality singing competitions. We brought home four different samples, taking each one for a metaphorical “spin” to see how they performed in the room’s light, how they complemented the existing decor, and how well they met our practical needs for privacy and light control. The excitement was palpable as we deliberated over textures, opacities, and colors, carefully considering how each option would enhance the room’s overall ambiance. After much anticipation and careful evaluation, we finally settled on our one true “shade-love,” a choice that felt absolutely perfect for Clara’s evolving space. This engaging process transformed a potentially mundane decorating decision into a memorable and enjoyable family activity, proving that even seemingly small design choices can bring significant joy and a sense of accomplishment.
Most Last Minute: Preschool Valentines
The “Most Last Minute” award goes to the Valentines we hastily assembled for Clara’s preschool Valentine’s Day exchange. With time ticking away, the pressure was on to create something cute and fitting for 16 eager children. Thankfully, our local Target store came through with the perfect supplies, providing the necessary foundation for our rapid crafting session. With a few key items in hand and the addition of a sweet, homemade poem to personalize each one, we were able to whip together adorable Valentines that were both charming and incredibly budget-friendly, all for under $7. This last-minute success story highlights the power of quick thinking and resourcefulness when faced with tight deadlines. It also demonstrates that heartfelt gestures don’t require elaborate plans or expensive materials; sometimes, the simplest, most personal touches are the most impactful. Clara was delighted to share her creations with her classmates, making the hurried effort entirely worthwhile and proving that a little creativity can go a long way, even under pressure.
Most Transparent: The Floating Frame DIY
This month’s “Most Transparent” title is playfully bestowed upon the ingenious floating frame that Sherry skillfully created. This clever DIY project involved adapting a standard picture frame with just a few readily available supplies, transforming it into a sophisticated display piece. The beauty of a floating frame lies in its ability to highlight artwork or photographs by seemingly suspending them between two panes of glass or acrylic, creating a contemporary and airy aesthetic. Sherry’s innovative approach demonstrated how accessible and impactful custom framing can be, without requiring specialized tools or a hefty budget. It’s a fantastic example of taking an everyday item and elevating it with a simple yet brilliant modification. The result is a clean, modern look that makes any displayed item truly stand out, offering a versatile solution for showcasing various pieces of art or treasured prints. This project reinforces our commitment to sharing practical, aesthetically pleasing DIY ideas that can be replicated with ease, adding a touch of personalized elegance to any home.
Most Delayed Satisfaction: Birdcage Art Installation
“Most Delayed Satisfaction” aptly describes the moment we finally got around to hanging these charming birdcages in Clara’s big girl room, transforming them into a playful and whimsical art installation. Why “delayed”? Because the larger, more prominent birdcage had been a beloved thrift store find all the way back in late 2011! For years, it sat patiently, waiting for its perfect moment and place. We knew it had potential, just not precisely where it would shine. This project beautifully illustrates the joy of patient collecting and the satisfaction of finally bringing a long-held vision to fruition. It’s a testament to the idea that some decor pieces are worth waiting for, allowing inspiration to strike naturally. The birdcages now add a unique, story-filled dimension to Clara’s room, creating a focal point that is both artistic and full of character. This installation not only adds visual interest but also reminds us that sometimes, the best things in home decor come to those who wait and cherish their unique finds.
Most Influential: Sherry’s Ceramic Animal Obsession
Sherry is undeniably “Most Influential” in our household, especially when it comes to instilling a love for ceramic animals in our daughter, Clara, as early as possible! Her passion for these charming figures found a delightful expression this month. We introduced literal hooks from Anthropologie, shaped like whimsical ceramic animals, which now serve a dual purpose in Clara’s room: as adorable decor and practical storage for some of her cherished hair accessories. This project is a perfect blend of form and function, adding a playful touch to Clara’s space while keeping her belongings organized. It’s a testament to how personal interests can subtly shape a home’s aesthetic and how even utilitarian items can become sources of joy and charm. Sherry’s influence ensures that Clara’s room is not just a place to sleep, but a vibrant, personality-filled haven that encourages creativity and imagination, surrounded by delightful details that reflect a unique, whimsical style.
Most Quotable: Clara’s Marshmallow Moment
While Clara could easily win the “Most Quotable” award nearly every month for her delightful observations and amusing conversations (as seen in past posts like this and this), this round’s honor goes to a truly iconic moment. It’s for the hilarious instance captured in this season’s Pinterest Challenge video, where she simply couldn’t contain her intense craving for a marshmallow any longer. Her raw, uninhibited desire, perfectly expressed, was both endearing and utterly relatable. These spontaneous, candid moments are what make blogging about family life so rich and authentic. They offer a glimpse into the unfiltered joy and humor that children bring into our lives, providing a refreshing contrast to the more structured DIY content. It’s these small, quotable gems that often resonate most deeply with our readers, reminding everyone of the precious, often funny, realities of raising a family amidst all the home projects.
Most Awesomely Awkward: The NYC Bathroom
“Most Awesomely Awkward” is a title that unequivocally belongs to a particular bathroom we encountered at a restaurant in New York City. This unique establishment was featured as part of our final book tour recap, which covered our adventures in NYC, Charlotte, and Atlanta. What made this bathroom so “awesome”? It was a unisex facility, which is progressive in itself, but it also boasted an unexpected and delightful feature: a built-in photobooth! This element added a layer of whimsical fun to a typically mundane space. However, it quickly veered into “awkward” territory. The five minutes required for picture processing, while we waited for our prints, inadvertently transformed us into rather peculiar bathroom loiterers. Navigating the social dynamics of waiting awkwardly in a unisex restroom, particularly while trying to look natural, provided a comical and memorable interlude to our busy book tour schedule. It was a perfectly quirky experience that perfectly encapsulated the eclectic charm and unexpected surprises that urban exploration can offer, reminding us that even bathroom breaks can become blog-worthy tales.
Most Playful: Clara’s Closet Toy Zone
The “Most Playful” superlative proudly goes to the closet in Clara’s big girl room. Since most of her clothing currently resides in her nursery closet, this space in her new room presented a unique opportunity for creative repurposing. We transformed it into a secret, whimsical toy and game zone, a hidden retreat for imaginative play. This transformation wasn’t instant; it began with a thorough decluttering session to remove all the miscellaneous items that had accumulated there. Once cleared, we introduced a few new, kid-friendly goodies and smart storage solutions, creating an inviting nook that encourages exploration and fun. This approach not only maximizes the utility of a relatively small space but also fosters a sense of wonder and excitement for Clara. It’s a testament to the idea that every corner of a child’s room can be imbued with purpose and joy, even those traditionally designated for storage. The closet now stands as a delightful example of how thoughtful organization and a touch of imagination can turn an unused space into a cherished play area.
Cutest Couple: Double Date in Atlanta
“Cutest Couple” this month is a delightful tie, recognizing the wonderful dynamic between me and Jeremy Bower, and Sherry and Katie Bower. Our recent trip to visit them in Atlanta was a perfect blend of family fun and creative collaboration. While Jeremy and I took the kids to the playground, fostering what we affectionately dubbed a blossoming “bromance” during a guys’ movie night, the ladies embarked on their own adventure. Sherry and Katie enjoyed a successful antiquing expedition, scoring some sweet vintage finds, and then stayed up late engaging in spontaneous crafting sessions. This dual-track approach allowed for both couple-time and individual pursuits, highlighting the strength of our friendships and the joy of shared passions. It’s always refreshing to connect with fellow bloggers and friends who understand the unique rhythm of our lives, blending creative work with family responsibilities. The trip was a vibrant exchange of ideas, laughter, and camaraderie, proving that successful collaborations extend beyond professional partnerships into genuine, supportive friendships.
Biggest Basketcase: Sherry’s Dipped Baskets
Sherry earns the playful title of “Biggest Basketcase” for her maniacal laughter at the start of this post, following a highly satisfying DIY project. Her burst of glee was a direct result of successfully adding a stylish dipped detail to the toy baskets in Clara’s big girl room. This simple yet effective upgrade instantly elevated the aesthetic of the baskets, transforming ordinary storage solutions into chic, personalized decor elements. Beyond the baskets, this project was part of a broader effort to tackle several other lingering items on Clara’s room to-do list, bringing us closer to its completion. The satisfaction of crossing these tasks off, coupled with the visual impact of the updated baskets, was clearly a cause for celebration (and a bit of dramatic laughter!). It highlights how small, thoughtful details can make a significant difference in a space, contributing to both functionality and visual appeal. This project underscores the joy of hands-on creativity and the immense satisfaction derived from transforming everyday objects into something special, all while checking off those satisfying to-do list items.
Longest List: Our Home Project Tracker
The “Longest List” superlative is undoubtedly awarded to our ever-evolving tally of completed and pending projects around our house. This detailed list, affectionately known as “Listy McListerson,” is more than just a chore chart; it’s a comprehensive chronicle of our home’s transformation, providing a tangible representation of our progress and future aspirations. It’s incredibly refreshing to see how many rooms are coming together beautifully, each marked off with a sense of accomplishment. Equally exciting is contemplating the immense potential residing in spaces that still await our creative touch, such as our carport and front porch. We’re already envisioning future improvements like boxing out those porch columns for a more substantial look and adding a functional yet stylish pergola to the carport, promising even more character and curb appeal. This extensive post is not just a personal tracking tool but also an invaluable resource for our readers, offering direct links to nearly every project we’ve ever undertaken in every room. So, if you’re eager to catch up on the history or specific details of any part of our home’s journey, this is the definitive guide for you, a testament to years of dedicated DIY and home improvement.
Longest List (Runner Up): Pinterest Challenge Projects
Earning the distinction of “Longest List (Runner Up)” is the impressive collection of nearly 650 projects linked at the bottom of the recent Pinterest Challenge post. This staggering number represents a colossal effort from our creative community, showcasing a wealth of “Pinspired” projects that were brought to life. The Pinterest Challenge is always a highlight, bringing together countless DIY enthusiasts to tackle projects inspired by their favorite pins. This particular installment saw an outpouring of ingenuity, skill, and personal style, demonstrating the incredible power of shared inspiration and collective creativity. Each linked project tells a unique story of transformation and personal accomplishment, making it an endless source of ideas and motivation for anyone looking to embark on their own DIY journey. Perusing this extensive list is a rewarding experience, offering a diverse array of projects from simple crafts to ambitious renovations. Well done to everyone who participated; your collective talent and enthusiasm truly made this challenge a resounding success and an invaluable resource for the wider DIY community.
Cheapest-Slash-Biggest Upgrade: Hallway Board & Batten
The “Cheapest-Slash-Biggest Upgrade” title proudly goes to the transformative board & batten we installed in our hallway. This project was undertaken as part of this season’s Pinterest Challenge, and its impact far exceeded its minimal cost. For an astonishingly low sum of just $57, we managed to completely revolutionize a once-nondescript and narrow space. The addition of board and batten instantly injected architectural interest, texture, and a sense of refined elegance into the hallway, making it feel more substantial and inviting. It’s a prime example of a high-impact, low-cost DIY that yields dramatic results. The sheer transformation made us wonder: why did we wait so long to tackle such an impactful and affordable project? This upgrade not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of a heavily trafficked area but also demonstrated that significant home improvements don’t always require a large budget or extensive construction. With thoughtful design and a little DIY effort, even the most overlooked spaces can become highlights of your home, proving that smart budget decisions can lead to stunning transformations.
Most Likely To Give Burt Wonderstone A Run For His Money: The Magical Tulips
This superlative is awarded for a delightful act of domestic magic that would surely impress even the great Burt Wonderstone! It goes to these exquisite paper tulips from West Elm, which Clara thoughtfully gave to Sherry for her birthday. What made them truly magical, however, was their overnight transformation into real, vibrant tulips, courtesy of yours truly. Alakazam! This simple, heartfelt gesture doubled the flower power for my wonderful wife, turning a lovely gift into an even more enchanting surprise. It was a small act designed to bring an extra layer of joy and demonstrate that sometimes, a little thoughtful intervention can elevate an everyday moment into something truly special. This “magical” moment perfectly encapsulates the blend of love, creativity, and playful surprise that we cherish in our home, reminding us that the best gifts often come with a personal touch and a dash of unexpected charm. It’s a reminder that a touch of magic, whether real or conjured, can brighten anyone’s day.
So, as we bid a fond farewell to February, we can’t help but marvel at how much can be packed into those 28 short days. Were your February days also a whirlwind of activity, perhaps involving some travel followed by the blissful comfort of being home? That certainly sums up our experience this past month. Did you embark on any particularly fun, exciting, or even dramatic projects? Or perhaps, like Clara, did your month feature any memorable marshmallow-related incidents? We love hearing about your adventures and accomplishments, big or small. Share your February highlights in the comments below, and let’s carry this spirit of reflection and creativity forward into the vibrant months of spring. What new DIYs, decor updates, or family moments are you looking forward to creating as the weather gets warmer and days grow longer? The possibilities are endless, and we’re excited to see what amazing projects and memories you’ll make!