Spring Has Finally Arrived ...

Spring is nature's way of saying "let's party!" ... Robin Williams


After years of realizing the living room in the house where we've lived for 25 years needed a makeover, I am currently in the process of doing just that.  I've had fun watching for sales and shopping in thrift stores, flea markets and interesting out-of-the-way shops and finding just the perfect thing to add to the sage velvet furniture I found new for a great price.  That was the starting point.
To that I added an entertainment center to hold my old TV (a new one isn't in the budget right now) and special pieces I love.  I had found this three-piece entertainment unit back in November but didn't buy it then, and I'm so glad I didn't because when I finally was ready to buy in February, it was on close-out so I got all three pieces at 60% off.  I had already decided to buy the TV piece only and not get the two pier pieces that flanked it, but when they said "if you take all three pieces we'll let you have the floor sample for 60% off, how could I say no?
Next I removed the very dirty and dusty mesh fireplace screen ... what a mess.  I painted the inside of the firebox black and because I am not going to build fires even though it is a working fireplace, I will use that area for what I call a vignette, based on the seasons.
Nate Berkus tells us to shop our own home and I've happily found things packed in boxes in the basement as well as in other rooms that look more at home in the new living room.  Just yesterday, I found some marbled paper (basement) that made a perfect cover for some small books I've stacked on the fireplace mantel, next to a pair of silver candlesticks (basement box and ready to give away, but saved in the knick of time), and a clock.
I realized I needed a floor plant to set in the corner next to the entertainment center.  Have you priced them?  Hobby Lobby had some as high as $300!  I began going through thrift shops and found one for $20 that was 5' tall and in very good shape.  After waiting a day (I really like to think it over when I'm buying at a thrift shop or flea market) I went back and still liked it and got it for $15.  I also found a wicker suitcase for $2 which is perfect in my firebox vignette.  In the clearance department at Walmart I found the perfect spring flowers in a basket for the coffee table ($5).

My 20-year old grandson said I needed to place a tray on the ottoman (how did he know that?) which I did and it's the perfect touch. 

I'm proud to say that I have spent well under half of my target amount, but there are still some things to add (today I bought fabric for spring pillows) and some different or re-framed wall art.  And finally, the room needs a fresh coat of paint.

Finally, I've become obsessed with watching the Decorah Eagle Cam and the three adorable eaglets.  Today I read that only 50% of the eagle population makes it through the first year.  Also it seems that they believe in survival of the fittest.  If I see them begin to pick on one another, I'm done, but for right now, it is such fun and definitely feels like spring.


April is a promise that May is bound to keep.  ~Hal Borland