A Quick and Easy DIY Project

I had heard about the kits that convert recessed lights to pendants awhile ago and forgot all about them until I read this post by Thrifty Decor Chick. I was really excited about these kits for a several reasons. Like TDC, we have a lot of recessed lights in our kitchen and I would really like to change things up a bit.
Also, although I consider myself to be somewhat handy, I’m nervous when it comes to projects involving electricity. Finally, if for whatever reason the kit didn’t live up to my expectations, I could just remove it and end up with the original light fixture with no harm done.

Pookie and I were out running errands yesterday so I decided to check them out. The first, more conveniently located, home improvement store that we went to didn’t have them so we headed over to Lowe’s. They had two Portfolio kits to choose from – silver or antique bronze I chose antique bronze.
 
Although the white frosted shade the kit came with was ok, I have a preference for colored glass. After some deliberation and advice from Pookie, I purchased this shade:
As soon as we got home, I got started on the installation. Once I took it out of the packaging I thought the finish looked more black than antique bronze and couldn’t resist the temptation to pull out my antique gold Rub ‘n Buff. I considered leaving it as is, or at least holding off on changing the color until I knew I could successfully install the light, however; I don’t have much patience so, in my usual manner, I plunged right in – for better or worse, this kit is mine.

So here it is:
I hadn’t noticed before that that light was not centered. What’s up with that? I think, from the kit directions, that I may be able to change the placement of the cord to make that less apparent. Regardless, I really like the way it turned out.

So Much Fun

I wrote in December about the awesome gift I got for my daughter for Christmas – a sewing machine. In my usual fashion, there were a couple things I had to do before we could actually get started. First, I felt we needed the right book to help me with the lessons. I looked at a few and decided on these – My First Machine Sewing Book: Straight Stitching and Simply Sewing (Kids Can Do It). Second, I realized that she needed a workspace that is her size - there is no way she could reach a foot pedal sitting at the table.

When Pookie was small, I got her a Dora table and chair set. She used it for everything - meals, play, crafts, etc. She has since outgrown Dora and we moved the set to the playroom. Until I find her the right sewing table, I thought it might be a good idea to redo the Dora table. She had some qualms about painting over her sticker collection. I had my own concerns about painting over Dora and my nostalgia. The table was pretty beat up and a nice new paint job could only be an improvement. Since the focus of this entry is on sewing, I'll post my before and after of the table redo another time.

Finally I have my act together enough to sit down with her for sewing lessons. We started with My First Machine Sewing Book. I have to say…she’s a natural. I’m so proud. I’m thinking, pillows will be perfect first projects for her – fun and she has that straight stitch down. I can’t wait to show my Mom pictures of our little seamstress.

I’m Back

I’ve had a lot going on in my life lately and although I’ve had a ton of inspiration and plans for projects, I haven’t had much time to complete them or write about them. The Holidays were pretty hectic and between that working full-time and family, I haven’t had much time for anything else.

Probably the biggest thing that has been going on is the arrival of my first Grandson. Our little man arrived on January 2 and we are all absolutely thrilled with him. He’s such a good sweet baby! I told Teresa that he is spoiling her. She’s going to think this whole motherhood gig is a piece of cake.

So as the title of this entry indicates, I’m back. I have so many plans for projects…I just have to find time to do them. Our plans for a trip to Mexico has me excited about getting out my summer clothes and thinking about some casual jewelry to go with my outfits. It’s been fun getting out all of my jewelry-making supplies. I’ve been hording beads and findings that have caught my eye – most of which I’ve picked up on sale or with coupons.

I recently set-up a craft space in my basement and Pookie and I spent some time there this weekend. I completed this multi-strand glass bead bracelet and a stamped pendant for my little girl last night.

Next, I'm thinking about making a necklace and some earrings.