Sunday, August 29, 2010

Phase One And Getting A Head Start On The Holidays



I have been contemplating that I need more work space. My second bedroom that I use for my studio seems to be shrinking each passing week. So, spending some time thinking on this situation, with one thought leading to another thought I had the great idea of making my living room my studio. I know I mentioned it in an earlier post and I have begun the slow transformation. Its going to take time because I need help moving the big stuff, paying for it with cash up front, and working full time. But thats ok. I am good with enjoying the journey these days:) But, I did get a start this weekend. I wanted a sitting area with the TV and my tunes in one area. This was my dining room. But it will do nicely if anyone happens to be over. The kitchen is right there, we can visit and if I want to work on things I can. Because I had to move things out of the dining room, I had to find a place for it, so I had to change my entry way. I tell you, its one thing leading to another and somehow I keep ending up with one extra piece of furniture. I actually put a chair outside my door with a "free" sign on it and it was gone in a matter of minutes. One problem solved! :) I will keep you posted on my progress. I am getting excited for it to all be done. How fun to be able to do it all in one large work area. I think my family thought I was a little crazy at first, but they seem to be getting the idea and think its going to be great.

OK,,, its almost September. I tell myself every year I will not wait to the last minute to do shopping... I end up waiting until the last minute! This year its a goal I am going to work very hard on. I also want to try and make it as much of a handmade holiday as I possibly can. So I have decided to be on the look out for Great Holiday Gifts and share them with you. The first person who came to mind was my friend Marie. (http://www.savonmarie.com/) And its not just because she is my friend. She has been making soap for alot of years and she has it perfected. I use her products and I love them. Her soap is awesome and it makes such a great gift at a wonderful price. Perfect for teachers, co-workers, or even hostess gifts for all the parties during the season. Her presentation is gorgeous as well. I cant wait to see what else I find to share here with you. Have a wonderful week.

13 comments:

lisa said...

Looks and sounds like you have a plan for your studio, I can hardly wait to see it finished.

I love Marie's soaps too, they are so yummy.

Julie Tucker-Wolek said...

I can't wait to see it all finished!!!! :):):):):):) And I start buying my Christmas gifts (just can't find the time to make them anymore! LOL!) the day after Christmas when everything goes on sale! LOL! Except for the kids...I am all done all ready! :):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):)

Francie...The Scented Cottage Studio said...

LOL..one thing leads to another indeed ... I have the same problem !
Soon as you get it done you will be able to get busy creating...
(())
Francie

Susie said...

Hi Gail! Your project is on it's way and you will be so happy once it is completed and you have the Winter months to create in your large space. I love, love, love Marie's soaps! Nice show and tell.
Susie
The Polka Dot Rose

Carolee Crafts said...

I am with you on you move around Gail and I know you will be so pleased with it when completed, just think all that space for crafting.

Every year I start Christmas gift making or buying early, love to have a handmade Christmas, baked goodies for the men and stitched for the ladies.

Over the pond we have taken the handmade pledge and I intend to follow that pledge to the letter.

Have a wonderful week Gail and enjoy

Marie said...

Hi Gail,

Looking forward to seeing the finished redo. By the way, I really like that yellow cabinet. So bright and cheery. Thanks for featuring my soap.
Marie

ImagiMeri said...

Hi Gail,

Well, as one who has done what you are attempting, I say go for it!!!! We have a breakfast nook area thats large enough to seat 10, so there was no need for two eating areas. The living room/dining room are one big area and aside from having carpet on the floor, it's the best choice I made to turn it into my classroom. Having so many worktables also benefits me at Thanksgiving when I need to seat 30 people. I wish I could help you physically, but I can take "stuff" out of your way. Just let me know when you have supplies or furniture you need to get rid of. Hey do you have any free lunch time coming up? I get paid on the 8th(a Wednesday) maybe we can set a lunch date!

Hugs,
Meri

Unknown said...

Sounds like a good idea - my office is practically my whole largest living space - and it's not bad. I spend most of my time there anyway!

Shabby Shan said...

Hi Gail,
It sounds like you are making progress on your new studio. I can't wait to see the finished project! Keep up the good work!

Shannon
Shabby Shan's Cottage

SoCal Helene said...

Gail, sounds like you are well on your way, take one day at the time and you will have it all done before you know it! Thanks for stopping by and good luck in the give-a-way! Have a great week!!
♥ Helene
SistersGiftCompany.com

Miss Magpies Shoppe said...

Hello, Gail, it sounds like you are having fun re-arranging things in your cozy home. It is hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner now. Wow...

Mary Patterson said...

Sounds as if you are making great progress, Gail. I love your idea to do it this way. We'll all be eager to see the finished transformation!
Hugs, Mary Patterson
http://MarysCottageTreasures.com/

Cottage Flair said...

Great idea for your studio and I love the idea of a handmade holiday. I always made my friends gifts when we were children. I love to give handmade.
jennifer