juliruge's Profile

I followed this post from last summer, and really liked the idea. I have only a 3 season porch to work with. Also, the flooring is old and very brittle, so there's no option for water spillage or fire hazard.

I went to the largest liquor store on my way home, and asked if they had any wine crates. They gave me a few, and I elected to cure them myself. I didn't use linseed oil (Danish oil) due to flammability and storing the materials. Instead, I've elected to use clear varnish (two coats with sand papering in between) to seal the boxes and protect from water exposure. It took an afternoon (2-3 hours) to sand the boxes, varnish and dry, then repeat the process on 3 wine crates.

I let them cure for 3 days, then prepared for planting. I've lined the boxes with double layers of 3 mm plastic sheeting (plastic drop cloth) and placed a generous layer of stones in the bottom to create drainage. Then, added soil on top and planted a small herb garden. River stones were used to create a channel for watering the plants.

Given the restrictions in my living quarters, I'm delighted with the outcome. Was worth the effort!

I have picture rails that are in working order, so have elected to hang 90 percent of my art from brass picture hooks and fishline or wire. This works well with the 9-foot ceilings.

I kept the walls white, except for cool green tea color on two walls in the bedroom. I selected furniture that was multipurpose, and did not take up visual space, but instead showcased the objects on it. Using espresso-stained furniture for table and chairs, and chocolate brown cushions made for decent contrast.

And I visited this website a lot for ideas.

I struggled with where to keep/use a small microwave unit. With such limited counter space, many folks place it above the refrigerator. The risk is that the heated food will spill on you when removing it. In the end, my dad helped me run surface-mounted channel and electrical cord over to a safe cubby in the built-in pantry, where we could mount a raised electrical box. The microwave is now perfectly accessible and at a safe height.

What a difference, looks great!

I brought truffles to a holiday dinner party with friends last night. Rolled in different coatings, the guests could choose their option.

Delish!