One Room Challenge - Week One

A few weeks ago, I agreed to participate in on a multi-blog design fest.  The One Room Challenge consists of 15 illustrious designers and bloggers (see list and links below) taking one room in their house, and transforming it in a mere six weeks. Each week, we blogstresses will post on the progress of our room, wrapping it all up with a Finale at week six.

I knew the "ORC" would commence shortly after our move to Rio, so I figured it would be a good way to kick myself into getting at least one room in our new apartment more or less photo-ready. What the freak was I thinking?

Anyway, here we are...Week One of the One Room Challenge.  If you are new here, and linking over from the other bloggers, Welcome to Rio de Janeiro!

Truth be told, I could've chosen any room in our apartment, as they're all in a state of confusion as to form and function, but I'm choosing my our office. 

I've pretty much told my husband I'm commandeering this room, as I have this notion of a feminine-but-tailored, womb-like space where my creative juice cup will runneth over. Where I will flex my decorator muscles, becoming the love child of Windsor Smith and Tom Scheerer.

I want it to feel a little like this:

room by cheryl tague

 With a dose of this

 SF Girl by Bay

I was already tossing around thoughts prior to our move, so I recovered a chaise lounge....

So, here's the Before in all its glory.

Along with commentary of my plans.

Try not to judge. 

 Six weeks to ship this into shape.  The order will be as much a surprise to me as you, soooo...

Wish me luck.  

Come back often.  Or at least next Wednesday.

And do check out the other lovely ladies of the Challenge.

Chinoiserie Chic              Nana Moon

The Cottage Mix              Nicole Scott Designs

Design Indulgence            Pawleys Island Posh

Everything LEB               The Pink Pagoda

Hodge-Podge                  Powell Brower Home

Kim Macumber Design      The Pursuit of Style

Lisa Mende Design           Rue de Emily

Living Savvy                   Sadie + Stella

Mix and Chic                  Trapped in North Jersey

My Crafty Home Life     

Need your input

They say "Shrinks need Shrinks."  I think it's probably true to say "Decorators need Decorators," too.  At least that's true of me.  It seems so much easier to make decorating decisions for other people than for myself.  So, I need your take on my dining room issue....

I've mentioned I plan to purchase an oval tulip table for our small dining room in Rio.  The classic but contemporary lines are exactly what our place needs to balance our otherwise Trad-ish mix of furniture.

 The thing is, I cannot decide what kind of chair to pair it with.

I don't want to match tulip chairs with the table, but don't know just how much to mix it up, either.

We need the smaller table to accommodate our space, so we might be looking at two host chairs, and only two side chairs.  I have a pair of these sort of Asian-lined chairs.  I know they aren't armchairs, but I was thinking of recovering them, and using them as host chairs.  Maybe an easy-to-clean, roughed up leather a la Isaac Mizrahi's bergeres.

 

 Something like that might pair nicely with bentwoods, right?

 Or, is that too matchy-matchy?  Should I go totally fun and colorful with something like these...

 

Need your input, puh-leeze!

Regroup & Recharge

Was really hoping to get in a quick DIY idea I've had brewing, but it'll have to wait. I have a date with my two girls, and a big 'ol jet airliner tonight. Heading north for some R&R, Texas style. Wish me luck on the solo-parent, 10 hour flight. I'll check in sometime next week!

Progress

Yesterday, during naptime, we emptied all the boxes containing "livros," and dived into a much-needed library-scaping session.

 

 Our previous home had a study adequate enough to house our book collection, but the rooms in our apartment here in Rio will need to do more multi-tasking.  So, I was more conscious of how we'd arrange the shelves - balancing books (obvs) with art and tchotchkes.  Knick-knacks offer a fine line, you know.  I hope I didn't cross it.

 I have a little project in mind to jazz up the bookshelves, but for the time being...
One 'scape:  Done!

Not bad, as far as views go

Before you all dive into your long weekend, take a gander at the view from our new digs in Rio de Janeiro.  Way up on that peak is the famous Christ the Redeemer statue - aka the Corcovado. 

via Instagram  Follow me: atexski

 

Keeping an eye on us.

We're still up to our ears in boxes, but I hope to have a progress shot or two for you next week.  Have a great holiday weekend!

Leaving a Home

Friday, Ben and I said goodbye to our home in Brasilia.  He and I have always become very attached to the places we live, which is probably an occupational hazard considering the overseas life we live tends to move families frequently.  

We've lived in our "BSB home" not quite four years, but a lot of life has been lived there in that short amount of time.  It's the first place we settled after joining this somewhat disjointed, Diplomatic life.  

In that house, we learned to cook new foods, and toast with drinks of exotic flair.  Where we celebrated birthdays and anniversaries - sometimes not always together.  Where we brought home one child.  And didn't bring home another.

It's where we hosted friends who shared stories of where they were from, where they had been, and where they were going.  Places all around the world.

They say Home is Where the Heart is, and our house in BSB will forever be one of our Homes.

S&M Artist

Ah HA! Caught your attention with that one, didn't I?

Sorry, no kinkiness to be had here.

Unless you consider vintage furniture finds oddly sexual.

It's just that sometimes, late, when I've had a couple Maaaahtinis (Friday), I like to look at furniture and things I'll never be able to ship down to the wiles o' South 'Merica.

First, I get all giddy at the coolness of something, and how I'd reconfigure it in my space.

Then, I get pissed and resentful that I'm so freaking far from the love of Craig, Etsy, and Ebay.

Then,

I just get another maaahtini.

BUT

There's no reason you can't possibly benefit from my perusings, so here, have at 'em.  Just be sure to tell them Alison in Brazil sent you.

Velvet and chrome sofa HERE 

Work it like this

 This lamp would work nicely to add color interest to just about anywhere.  Lose the shade, though.

Good price on this one, too.

Think like this 

I'm dying to work with some chairs like this to put around an oval tulip table.  See if the seller will sell them apart from the table.  Here

And while we're on the subject of dining sets, check out the hotness (well, the potential hotness) of this one.  Cushy-bouncy chairs beg for drawn-out dinners and wine.  No, that doesn't happen at our casa, but it might at yours!

And, last but not least... I sold my large, wood desk, and am looking for a leaner/cleaner replacement.  This one's a budget-buster, but can't you just imagine?

Oh, yes.  Yes, I could.

 Inspired by

Catching up in Crazytown

Wait. Has it already been a week since I last posted?

No wonder my stats and stuff are in the It can.

Sorry, but I suspect there will be more of that in the weeks ahead. 

And, I'm just not collected enough these days to build in guest posts, etc.

Speaking of collected....Have any of you looked this effortless coming off a 10+ hour flight?

Yeah.  Me neither. Just checking.

I think it takes a lot of effort to look effortless, though.

OK, where was I?  Catching up.  Let's see...  I'll try to give the Cliff's Notes version:

The movers show up a week from today to box us up for Rio. I'm kinda spazzing about it. 

We sold quite a lot of stuff in a garage sale last weekend.  To pare down, or buy more stuff, THAT is the question.

This here blog will be getting herself a whole new gig in a few weeks.  All bizzy and professional-like.  I'll share more when she's all polished up, and ready for her close-up.  I hope when the time comes, you'll make that move with me (*wink-wink*)

OH!  The CLEANSE!!  I never had a chance to tell ya'll how it went!

In (well, not a) but a few words:  It was. A. Game. Changer.

I came to it needing/wanting to lean up, and shed the last bloody five pounds from my last pregnancy.  I had been trimming excess and refined carbs, and working out consistently for a few months, but not seeing any positive movement on the scale, or in the fit of my clothes.

Demoralizing is what that is.

I kept reading Facebook updates from a friend of mine about how much success she was having losing weight with this cleanse, but more importantly, how much ENERGY she had while doing it.

I am a trained Registered Dietitian, and by default, discount anything that sounds too good to be true in terms of weight loss.  I was doubtful about this program, but after reading about it, the ingredient lists of the products (all natural), I decided to give the 9-day cleanse a go. 

In nine days, I lost five inches, and almost 5 lbs - exactly what I wanted to do.  But get this:  My energy was throughthefreakin'roof.  I haven't felt that good - well, possibly ever.  My mental clarity and ability to focus was Rain Man-like.  My ability to handle stress (i.e. travelling husband, single parenthood) was boosted. I no longer craved sugar.  These are not things that happen with simple water loss or chemical stimulants.  

 *This is where I'd insert my Before and After pics* (yes, I took them) But can't stomach that kind of exposure. (If you want to see my proof email me.  And I'll make you sign a confidentiality clause.)

I'm two-weeks post-cleanse, now.  One pound has come back, but I understand that's typical.  Otherwise, I've maintained the losses.

I could go on and on, but don't want to turn into an infomercial. If you want more info on the cleanse - go here and/or email me. atexski@yahoo(dot)com.

Think that's it....

I'll try to show my face 'round here before next week.

But, don't hold your breath ;)

Giveaway Winner, and a Peek at my GRANDE painting!

You'll have to forgive me....I weinee'd out of picking a giveaway winner myself. I just couldn't! Everyone has a great reason for needing/wanting $500 worth of cute business stationary. So. 

I let Random do it. 

She has no qualms, and she picked...

Which translated to comment...

 Congratulations, MaryNeff!  I'll be in touch with instructions on how to claim your prize!

And, now....a peek at the ginormo canvas I had framed last week.  It's a folk art painting by a street artist out of Rio de Janeiro - where we're moving in about 2 1/2 weeks - eeek!  Anyway, I had it sandwiched between two pieces of glass, with about a three-inch float between the painting and the frame.

The Brazilian framers thought I was "crazy American lady," but I knew exactly what I wanted, which included being able to see the raw edges of the canvas.

We paid very little for the painting, so while I wanted to honor its humble heritage, I also wanted to do it justice by framing it as a real, statement piece.

I can't wait to install it in our new apartment in Rio.

Let's hope it survivies the trip....

Nursery Werk

A woman contacted me after tracing my work on Oliver's Nursery back from a google search of "gray and white striped nursery."  Cool how those things work, huh?  Anyway, she and her hubster are expecting baby #1 - a girl, and have asked me to help them work some magic in the nursery.

Mostly mod magic, which I'm so delighted about, since I've never had the chance to worka nursery in modern tones.  These things tend to evolve, but here's where we're at so far:

I know so many of us are mood boarding-it these days - what have you got up your project sleeves?

Also, there's still time to register for the $500 stationery giveaway from 123Print.  Go HERE.  Come on, peeps, this is getting EMBARRASSING! ;)

*If you are interested, or know someone interested in my e-design services, please contact me at:  atexski@yahoo(dot)com

Large and In Charge Art

This morning, I took a large piece of art to the frame shop.  When it's all said and done, it should be a little more than a meter wide and tall.  Coolness.  I'm absolutely chomping at the bit to see it, and can only assume you are as well, so I'll be sure to share later this week.

I also guess you're wondering about my progress with the cleanse.  Well, I'm not quite done - these are my last two days, so I'll hold final judgement.  What I WILL say is I feel incredible.  More to come on that, too.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 So, basically, I'm all-around stalling.  Not purposely holding out goodness from you, but

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 also not quite ready to share. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the meantime, I'll leave you with some giant art goodness and also REMIND you to

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

register for the $500 stationary giveaway I'm hosting with 123Print.  Go HERE to do it!

 

 

Bigger is better.

Giveaway: Cards to Pimp Yo-Self!

OK, peeps - DON'T click away because you saw this is a giveaway, because I only chose it with you in mind.

I know there are a few of you out there like me:  trying to get a design or other small business off the ground.  Trouble is, it can get pricey to get started, and get yourself out there.  One thing you need is business cards - DUH!

Even if you're not starting a fledgling business, there's good reason to have calling cards/Mommy cards, whatever you wanna call them on hand with your important contact info.

Needing Cards + Saving Cash = This Giveaway

123Print has offered $500 worth of Office Supplies to one lucky MLHP reader.  The choices range from business cards to address labels to magnetic save the date cards (hello, Brides-to-Be!)

Here's a few I would consider: 

For the chevron luvahs out there....the cards are customizable - I'd lose the fleur de lis (just sayin')

A clean, modern look...

 

Sweet Mommy calling card...

 

Pretty Save the Date magnet...

You get the idea - TONS of designs to choose from.  (I could've played around with this all day!)

To register, leave a comment saying what you'd use the supplies for.  Be even cooler and say what design you'd pick! If you're really awesome, tweet about it, mention in a post, etc.  Comments will be open until midnight next Thursday, April 26th.

I'll pick a winner based on the best idea/planned use on Friday, April 27th.  Be sure to leave an email where I can contact you, and Good Luck!

Yea or Nay? Diploma Display

I'm curious if any of you have this discussion 'round your casa regarding the display of diplomas.  Between the two of us, Ben and I have several Proofs of Being Ed-U-Ma-Cated, and we've always dutifully displayed the framed certificates in the "offices" of our homes.

Now, as I daydream about our next space, and conjure up images of elegant and inspiring work spaces for me...

(key word: daydream)

...and a (separate) masculinely-tailored manspace for him

(Like he'd EVER)

I come back to the reality that we will in fact still have to share a "work" space.  And really, if the space is going to be precious, I want it to be inspirational.  I want to forgo the diploma display.

It's not that I'm not proud of my education, I just don't feel the need to display it.  I'd rather look at pretty art and photos and fabric swatches.

Or, maybe just out the window.

But, I sense this idea will meet with resistance, so I need your thoughts, peeps.

Diploma Display - Yea or Nay?

*images via Pinterest and Nate Berkus

This just in...

Look what showed up on my doorstep yesterday!

 It was Isla's birthday, but I got the gift!  Shame on me.  

 I've been craving a really great beach print, and ordered this one of Ipanema Beach awhile back on OKL.  I remember at the time thinking it was kinda pricey for a photo print.  So, when it arrived framed, I felt like a giant toolbag (but you know, in a good way).

It also serves as a ginormo reminder that we'll be moving there in *gulp* about a month.

Wish me luck getting my packing act together!

Lay off meeeee!

What's new in the world?

Let's see....

I'm doing a cleanse.  This one.  I've always wanted to try one, but they always seemed a tad shady.  This one's total nutrition, and I've seen people I actually know have amazing results.  So, I'm in.  I started it on Saturday.  The first two days are pre-cleanse days where you whittle down your food intake, drink high-nutrient shakes, and practically float away on all the water you're supposed to consume.  Then comes two real-deal cleanse days.  As in no food.

That starts today.

What's also today?

My Baby Girl's 2nd Birthday.

 

So, these are sittin' around for later today....

...and I haven't. Touched. One.

Didn't even lick a beater.

Ben told me I'm a Masochist.

All I can think of....

...and maybe the goodness of this...

Source: google.com via Alison on Pinterest

Cleansfully yours,

ag