home body's Profile

Actually, I read about this dog house at another blog and, in fact, the dog refused to use it.

I'm surprised when people say AT has the most snarky commenters around. In my experience, the comments here tend to be from genuine interest (or disinterest) and are crucial to giving an overall reaction to the post. It's design - some people are gonna love it, others are gonna hate it. The implication to all posts is that they are requesting people's feedback (otherwise, why post?), so to say that criticism is not allowed is counterintuitive. And to proclaim that a statement that doesn't back itself up is useless to the conversation is also misguided, imo. Is "meh" a worse comment than "wow"? I don't think so. (But like others, I too went to art school where constructive criticism is par for the course.) I will say that sometimes I feel obliged to point out when a DIY project is actually dangerous, which happens with astounding regularity on AT. But then I am even more surprised when people claim that pointing out a danger is akin to dissing the design.

The ultimate in cozy decor? Add a feline, of course!

Soft and fuzzy is never a bad idea.

I think there are merits to both the before and after. After reading the discussions going on in the comments, the ironic thing (to me) is that the white parsons desk and use of kelly green is actually something I remember as being quite hot in the mid to late 70s - which would have probably been when "granny" was closer to the author's age? More retro than contemporary - and probably why both are (presumably) happy with the makeover!

Rolling up a wet item in a clean towel and pressing out the water is another safe method for a gentle "spin" cycle. Granted you are left with a wet towel too, but they're used to it.

It's all about the details in such a small space. Since it's a rental, I wouldn't bother with painting. The far wall is what creates the biggest impression at this point, and it's filled with brooms and other items usually best hidden. I would splurge on a fancier garbage can and pet bowls. Hang the cleaning supplies behind closed doors, or at least in a corner nook. Get a large mirror for the far wall (ikea has some affordable full length ones.) A colorful runner for the floor. And some sleeker cabinet pulls would really make a difference. I would also remove the sign from the ceiling and place it elsewhere. Decluttering boxes and things on the fridge always helps too, but sometimes real life requires such things to be out and available.

So smart!

Novels I could part with, but art books would be really difficult to get rid of. Even if I only look at them once a year (or less...)

Quick and easy: make a cup of Good Earth Original tea, add bourbon and lemon, honey (optional) to taste. I also was once given a hot toddy with butter in it - really good!