November Home Projects & Design Highlights: A Month of Transformations and DIY Triumphs
As December swiftly arrived, bringing with it the crisp air and festive anticipation, we paused to reflect on a truly transformative November. It was a whirlwind of activity, packed with diverse home improvement and design projects that kept us busy, challenged, and ultimately, immensely proud. From the heart of our kitchen renovation to charming exterior updates, nursery enhancements, and unique decorative ventures, this past month was a testament to the power of DIY and the joy of creating a home that truly reflects us. Join us as we take a nostalgic stroll down memory lane, celebrating our accomplishments and sharing the stories behind each project. We’ve compiled all the essential links in one convenient place, sprinkled with a few never-before-seen peeks, so you can dive deeper into the details of our journey.
Here’s a look back at November, presented with a playful yearbook-style awards ceremony for all our noteworthy moments.
Oddest Couple: Sherry and the Majestic Built-In Fridge Cabinet
Our journey to a more integrated and polished kitchen took a significant step forward with the construction of this towering built-in cabinet designed for our refrigerator. It was quite the undertaking to create a seamless, custom look around such a large appliance. The vision is to give our new kitchen a truly finished appearance, and while it’s still awaiting its final touches – doors and a fresh coat of paint – its structural presence already makes a dramatic difference. This project perfectly illustrates the impact that thoughtful, custom carpentry can have on elevating the aesthetic and functionality of a modern kitchen, turning a utilitarian appliance into a design feature. It’s an ongoing labor of love, but the potential is undeniably striking.
Cutest Couple: Us and the Cherished Giant ‘L’
Sometimes, the most treasured items come from the most unexpected places, or in our case, through the incredible generosity of our readers. This month, we celebrated the reunion with a giant letter ‘L’ (mistaken for a ‘7’ from a Dollar Tree sign) that we had regrettably left behind. A kind reader, Lesley, picked it up for us in Maryland, making it arguably the best $25 we’ve ever spent. This quirky piece isn’t just a sign; it’s a symbol of community and the unexpected connections forged through our shared love for home projects. It holds a special place in our hearts and promises to add a unique, personal touch wherever it ultimately finds its home in our evolving decor. Thank you again, Lesley, for bringing this piece of happiness into our lives!
Most Shocking: Our Mailbox’s Fleeting Green Glory
Just one short month ago, our mailbox area was an unexpected burst of vibrant green, thanks to a little “mum-ification” project we undertook. It’s shocking how quickly the seasons turn, and how much a landscape can transform in such a short period. That lush, leaf-free green now feels like a distant memory, as everything outside has succumbed to the inevitable “wintery” fade – a landscape of muted browns and sparse textures. This project reminds us of the ephemeral beauty of seasonal decor and the constant cycle of nature. While we enjoyed the vibrant fall curb appeal, we’re now looking forward to the possibilities spring will bring for fresh exterior updates.
Handiest: Henrietta, the Multi-Armed Ceramic Wonder
Every home needs a touch of whimsy and practical inspiration, and this month, Sherry’s ceramic animal collection welcomed its newest, most extraordinary member: Henrietta. This charming ceramic creature boasts eight hands, instantly making her the undisputed envy of every DIY enthusiast and multi-tasker out there. Henrietta is more than just a decorative piece; she’s a humorous nod to the endless tasks involved in home improvement, embodying the spirit of getting things done. Her unique charm adds character to our space and serves as a delightful reminder that a little bit of fun and personality goes a long way in creating a truly hand-crafted home.
Most Pin-able: The Spectacular Fall Pinterest Challenge
Our Fall Edition Pinterest Challenge truly exceeded all expectations, showcasing an incredible wave of creativity and community spirit. While we were quite pleased with the 38 DIY ornaments we crafted, the real showstopper was the overwhelming participation from our readers. Over 800 diverse and inspiring projects were linked at the bottom of our post, turning our challenge into a vibrant hub of shared inspiration. This collective effort highlighted the power of Pinterest as a platform for generating and sharing innovative home decor and DIY ideas. It was an honor to witness such a vast array of talent and enthusiasm, proving once again that the DIY community is a boundless source of brilliant ideas.
Easiest (and Most Procrastinated): Porch Paint Swatches
Sometimes, the simplest tasks become the longest-running projects. This month, we managed to take the “easy” step of painting a few test swatches on our front porch. And then… that’s where the progress paused. With nighttime temperatures rapidly dropping, our ambitious plans for a full porch repaint have been reluctantly tabled until the warmer embrace of spring. Despite the delay, we consider it a minor victory that we’ve at least settled on a color choice! This little hiccup is a familiar tale in DIY, where planning often outpaces execution due to external factors. We’re now eagerly anticipating next season to bring our vision for a refreshed porch to life, making sure our curb appeal is top-notch.
Strangest: The Ghost of the Kitchen Opening That Was
It’s truly surreal to look back at old photographs, like those from our initial stages of choosing a contractor, and see the phantom outlines of our future kitchen and dining room opening. What now stands as a beautifully integrated, open passageway was once just an abstract idea, carefully delineated with green painter’s tape on a blank wall. The transformation is so complete that we can barely recall what the rooms looked like before this major structural change. This experience vividly illustrates how quickly our perception of space adapts once a vision becomes reality, highlighting the dramatic impact of thoughtful home renovations on daily living and the flow of a home.
Creepiest: My Dexter-esque Demolition Prep
Preparing a house for significant wall demolition can feel a bit like setting a scene for a crime drama – albeit a very dusty, construction-focused one! This month, I embraced my inner Dexter persona, meticulously covering everything in plastic sheeting to protect our home from the impending chaos. The eerie, plastic-shrouded environment, combined with the anticipation of structural changes, certainly added a layer of dramatic flair to our DIY efforts. While there were no actual serial killer tendencies, the dedication to protection and containment was equally intense. It’s a humorous reflection on the often messy, but ultimately rewarding, stages of a major home renovation project.
Awesomest: The Kitchen’s Grand Unveiling of Progress
This month brought forth a monumental moment in our kitchen renovation that truly earns the title of “Awesomest.” Witnessing this stage of progress felt like a huge leap forward. The vision we’ve been meticulously planning for months finally started to materialize, showcasing the new layout and the emerging structure of our dream kitchen. It’s an incredible feeling when the abstract drawings and ideas transform into tangible elements within our home. This particular update was a powerful reminder of why we embark on these ambitious DIY projects – for the sheer satisfaction of seeing our efforts reshape our living space into something truly spectacular.
More Awesomest: Further Kitchen Marvels
Building on the excitement of our previous kitchen revelation, this month continued to deliver with even more impressive progress in the kitchen space. Each new element and completed section brings us closer to the finished design, and the overall transformation is simply breathtaking. It’s not just about installing cabinets or framing walls; it’s about seeing the entire design narrative unfold and the space becoming increasingly functional and aesthetically pleasing. These continuous strides in our kitchen renovation reinforce the thrill of DIY and highlight the meticulous planning and hard work that go into creating a truly exceptional home environment.
Less Than Awesome: The Drywall Doorway Dilemma
Every DIY project, no matter how carefully planned, seems to have its minor setbacks. This month, we encountered a little hiccup while drywalling the doorway. It’s a common occurrence in home renovations to hit a snag, where something doesn’t quite line up or requires more finessing than anticipated. These moments can be momentarily frustrating, but they also serve as valuable learning experiences. The good news is that with a bit of patience and problem-solving, we managed to navigate this challenge successfully. The doorway ultimately came together perfectly, proving that persistence pays off in the world of DIY.
Okay, Now We’re Back On The Awesome Train: Perfecting the Trim
After navigating a minor drywall challenge, it was incredibly satisfying to get back on track with the details that truly transform a space. Installing the trim around our newly finished doorway marked a significant milestone, moving us definitively back onto the “awesome train.” Trim work, though seemingly small, plays a crucial role in giving a room a polished, custom feel. It’s these finishing touches that elevate a DIY project from good to great, defining architectural elements and adding character. Seeing the doorway finally framed and looking complete brought immense satisfaction, reinforcing the value of meticulous attention to detail in home improvement.
Most Likely To Die Happy: My 30th Birthday Bucket List Success
Turning 30 last month was a moment for reflection and quiet celebration, made all the more special by realizing I had checked off a surprising number of items from my high school “Things to Do Before I’m 30” list. While some goals were purely aspirational, others, like living to see a season of Real World: Washington D.C., were delightfully quirky. This personal milestone underscored the journey of growing up, pursuing passions, and finding humor in the everyday. It’s a reminder that life is a collection of big dreams and small, silly aspirations, and finding joy in achieving both is what truly makes a life well-lived.
Most Likely To Say “Thanks”: The Thanksgiving Card Pay-It-Forward
This Thanksgiving, we were thrilled to share a little piece of gratitude with our community: our free printable Thanksgiving card download. This special offering included two versions – one for personal messages and another blank card, designed for recipients to “pay it forward” with their own message of thanks. The response was heartwarming, with many printing and sharing these cards, fostering a beautiful chain of appreciation. It was a wonderful way to connect with our readers and spread the true spirit of Thanksgiving, proving that simple gestures of gratitude can create a powerful ripple effect.
Most Likely To Procrastinate: Our Last-Minute Thanksgiving Table
Holiday preparations often lead to a dash of last-minute creativity, and Thanksgiving was no exception this year. We found ourselves conjuring up a collection of quick and charming table setting ideas just in the nick of time before packing our bags and heading to New Jersey for Turkey Day festivities. This project proved that even with a tight schedule and impending travel, it’s entirely possible to create beautiful, inviting spaces with a little ingenuity. It was a testament to making the most of available resources and embracing the spontaneous joy of holiday decorating, offering inspiration for anyone facing similar time constraints.
Most Mischievous: Burger, the Baguette Bandit
Our beloved canine companion, Burger, continued to charm (and occasionally challenge) us with his antics this month, earning him the title of “Most Mischievous.” As featured in our festive Thanksgiving greeting, Burger proved to be our resident baguette robber, always on the lookout for a tasty treat. His playful personality and determined pursuit of snacks add so much life and laughter to our home. These little moments with our pets are truly priceless, reminding us that even during busy renovation periods, there’s always room for lighthearted fun and the unconditional love of our furry family members.
Most Likely To Be Misread… With Disgusting Results: “Sinkless”
Sometimes, a simple typo or a quick read can lead to hilariously (and disgustingly) unexpected interpretations. Our post title, “We’re Now Officially Sinkless,” which detailed our kitchen renovation progress, was apparently misread by many as “We’re Now Officially Skinless.” The mere thought sends shivers down our spines! This incident was a stark and humorous reminder of the importance of clear communication in blogging and the strange paths human perception can take. Rest assured, our kitchen progress only involves removing plumbing, not epidermis. Let’s hope that particular misunderstanding never becomes a reality or a blog topic!
“It’s The Little Things” Award: Precision for Countertops
In the grand scheme of a kitchen renovation, it’s often the meticulous “little things” that pave the way for major milestones. This month, we dedicated time to crucial preparatory steps, like filling gaps next to the stove and securing a panel on the back of the peninsula. These seemingly minor adjustments were absolutely vital for one critical reason: to ensure our new countertops could be accurately templated. Precision at this stage prevents costly errors down the line and guarantees a perfect fit. It’s a testament to the detailed planning and careful execution required for a truly successful and high-quality kitchen transformation, where every small effort contributes to the flawless final result.
Least Accurate: Clara’s Countertop Measuring Skills
While we encourage all forms of participation in our home projects, some tasks undeniably require a professional touch. This month, our adorable Clara enthusiastically (but not quite accurately) tried her hand at measuring for our new kitchen counters. It was a charming moment, highlighting the joy of having little helpers around, but we were immensely grateful when the actual professionals from the fabrication company arrived. Their expertise ensured that our custom countertops would fit perfectly, avoiding any costly mistakes. This playful anecdote perfectly captures the blend of family life and serious renovation work, reminding us that some jobs are best left to the seasoned pros!
Most Musical: The Quirky Ceramic Pig Speaker
Who says functional items can’t also be fabulously fun? This month, we highlighted one of our favorite quirky finds: our ceramic pig speaker from West Elm. This delightful gadget is just one example of how we love to infuse personality and unexpected charm into our home decor. It’s not merely a speaker; it’s a conversation starter, a piece of art, and a testament to the idea that design should be enjoyable and expressive. This pig speaker, part of a roundup of “four little finds,” perfectly embodies our approach to decorating – seeking out unique pieces that offer both aesthetic appeal and practical use, adding a musical touch to our daily lives.
The “Here We Go Again” Award: Upper Cabinet Removal
Just when you think progress is linear, home renovations throw another curveball! This month, we received the “Here We Go Again” award as parts of our kitchen, which had just started to come together, had to be disassembled once more. We strategically removed our upper cabinets to prepare for the much-anticipated arrival and installation of our new countertops, expected sometime next week. This step, while seemingly a backtrack, is a crucial part of the process, ensuring a seamless and precise fit for the new surfaces. It’s a true reflection of the iterative nature of large-scale DIY projects, where sometimes you have to take a step back to leap forward.
Class Crybaby: A Sarcastic Farewell to Old Tile
Demolition is rarely a tear-jerking affair, but sometimes a little dramatic flair can make even the messiest tasks memorable. This month, we offered a sarcastic “Class Crybaby” farewell to the old tile and plywood walls we had to demo in the kitchen. The video, while humorous, captured the physical effort and the bittersweet act of tearing down the old to make way for the new. It’s a symbolic step in any renovation, clearing the canvas for fresh design and improved functionality. This playful approach to demolition reminds us that even the most arduous tasks can be approached with a sense of humor and excitement for what’s to come.
Most Awkward People In A Checkout Line: Retro Wood Paneling Purchase
Imagine the scene: us, at the checkout, with a gigantic piece of what some might consider “throwback” wood paneling. We definitely earned the “Most Awkward People In A Checkout Line” award this month, as the stares suggested we were committing some grave decorating sin. However, there was a perfectly logical and practical reason for this purchase! We needed this specific wood paneling to seamlessly match missing pieces where our old tile and cabinets once stood. It’s all part of our meticulous plan to create a cohesive look. We can’t wait to paint it to match the rest of the room, proving that sometimes, you have to embrace a little awkwardness for the greater good of a perfectly finished kitchen design.
Most Demonstrative: Burger and the Book Deal Journey
Our exciting news about the book deal called for a special announcement, and who better to help us tell the story than our very own Burger? He earned the “Most Demonstrative” award with his superb posing skills, helping us illustrate the entire play-by-play of how our book deal came to be and the progress we’ve made so far. Integrating Burger into our journey not only added a touch of charm and humor but also perfectly captured the relaxed yet dedicated spirit behind our creative ventures. It’s a wonderful example of how even professional milestones can be shared with a personal, heartfelt, and furry touch.
The Daddy’s Girl Award: Clara’s Striking Resemblance to Sherry
In a surprising turn of events, the “Daddy’s Girl” award didn’t quite land on Clara this month. Our post about updates to our nursery frame collage sparked an overwhelming consensus: Clara bears an uncanny resemblance to Sherry! This revelation, while humorous given that both our families have similar genetic traits, was music to my ears. The idea of having a “mini Sherry” is absolutely delightful, and let’s be honest, I don’t think I’d make the prettiest lady. It’s a sweet reminder of the unique characteristics and surprising resemblances within families, adding another layer of joy to our evolving home and family story.
The Momma’s Girl Award: Clara’s Unwavering Love for Pickles
Continuing the playful theme of genetic similarities (or delightful differences!), Clara truly cemented her status as a “Momma’s Girl” this month – at least when it comes to culinary preferences. Much to my bewildered disgust, Clara absolutely adores pickles, a stark contrast to my personal detestation for them. During a recent dinner out, she achieved an impressive feat: she devoured an ENTIRE PICKLE. We’re not talking about a modest spear, but a whole, oblong, uncut pickle! Sherry was genuinely impressed by her daughter’s gusto, while I, predictably, observed with a mix of fascination and revulsion. It’s a funny, endearing insight into Clara’s developing personality and a quirky family anecdote we’ll surely be recounting for years.
Phew! What an incredible and action-packed November it has been for us here. We navigated major kitchen renovations, celebrated personal milestones, shared free printables, and even faced down a baguette-bandit dog. It was a month filled with triumphs, a few comical setbacks, and continuous progress towards making our house truly feel like home. We hope this recap provided a fun glimpse into our busy lives and perhaps offered some inspiration for your own projects.
How about you? What did November look like in your neck of the woods? Did you accomplish any major home improvement projects, tackle new DIY challenges, or have an especially awesome holiday experience? We always love hearing about your adventures and successes! We’re eagerly looking forward to what December holds, hoping to enjoy more of both project progress and festive celebrations as the holiday season unfolds. Happy (almost) holidays, everyone!
Psst – If you’re craving more monthly recaps and superlative fun, you can check out July’s highlights here, August’s adventures here, September’s milestones here, and October’s amazing moments right here.