Update a Lampshade

by Meredith

Now here's a fun idea I found on fit & fab living - update a lampshade, DIY!  I have the perfect old lamp I don't want to get rid of, but it really needs a new shade.  This tip is ideal for those on a budget and want to make a pretty and chic lamp a centerpiece without spending the big bucks.

First consider the scheme of the room. Do you want the lamp to be a highlight, or do you want it to fit into the general color scheme of the walls and overall decor? Consider colors and prints before purchasing your ribbon.

Easy Directions:

1. Remove the old shade from the lamp.
2. Cut ribbons that will be placed on the lamp. First measure the new shade from its top to its bottom and then add 2 inches to the measurements. Cut your ribbon (satin, grosgrain or jacquard) into strips.
3. Place the new shade on lamp before you start to hot glue the ribbons; this will help keep them even. Apply the glue to the back of the ribbon and place it straight down. Now smooth the ribbon so that it is completely flat. Work your way around the shade with the ribbon pieces, making sure they are evenly placed.
Tip: You can add a sleek border of ribbon around the top and/or bottom of the lampshade or create vertical stripes to mix it up and make the shade a true statement piece, whether it's for your bedroom, living room or elsewhere in the house!

 

Bridal Showers Galore

by Meredith

We're on the cusp of wedding season and bridal showers are starting to pour in. Recently, I've been  having some fun wrapping the gifts. Of course there are many options for paper products and some can be expensive. Here's a quick tip, check out your local dollar store. They can have some awesome finds when it comes to this. Then get creative wrapping because you can afford ribbons and bows!  Sometimes you can even take some leftover paper and wrap it around a second time to give a layered look.  (See the second gift I wrapped.) I'll let you know when I come up with more ideas! Please share if you have suggestions too!

 

  

 

  

Here is another great post for inspiration too from blogger, Older and Wisor.

Minnehaha Falls

by Meredith

Spring is here! We've been blessed in Minnesota with an easy winter and early spring, but now the season has caught up with the kind of weather we've been having!  Besides the warm weather, I love the fresh scents of floral and produce growing.  I took a walk with my family this past weekend at a favorite spot of many Minneapolis natives, Minnehaha Falls.

{My Dad enjoying one of his favorite places to visit}

{Hiawatha and Minnehaha statue}

{Minnehaha Falls}

Moccasins

by Meredith

One of my favorite, most comfortable, and I think stylish, pair of shoes are my Minnetonka moccasins.  They feel almost like slippers, but in my opinion are dressy.

St. Patrick's Day in St. Paul

by Meredith

St. Patrick's Day in St. Paul is a long standing tradition this Minnesota girl has never been able to attend because of school or work. But not this year - it's on a Saturday and they are predicting a high of 77 for the 17th! I'm excited for the parade, green beer and enjoying the wonderful weather.

The Real Housewives of Disney

by Meredith

This skit from this month on Saturday Night Live was fanatic: Disney Housewives. I totally wish it was a real show. I'd actually watch this Housewives series.

Watch it for yourself on SNL's site here:  http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/disney-housewives/1388796

International Women's Day

by Meredith

March 8 of every year is International Women's Day.  In different regions of the world celebrations range from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements.

{Poster for Women's Day, March 8 1914}

Top 5 Spring Colors

by Meredith

I'm getting excited for spring already now that March is here!  Warmer weather, brighter color clothes, longer days - hooray!  According to Etsy these are the hot colors this spring.

1. Neon Glow

 2. Pretty Pastels

3. Tangerine Tango

4. White Magic

5. Patterns of Blue

End of the Rainbow

by Meredith

This week I saw End of the Rainbow  at the Guthrie in Minneapolis. The Guthrie's president has  connections that allow our theater to once and awhile get a Broadway musical before it goes live in New York - this is one of them!  Set in 1968, the story is based on actress Judy Garland's last six months of life and her last performance run in London. It featured many of her signature songs. Great performance Tracie Bennett.