The fresh air and preview of spring gives me a taste of heaven!
I found this piece of scripture to be fitting:
Better is one day in your courts
than a thousand elsewhere;
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
The Lord bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does he withhold
from those whose walk is blameless.
O Lord Almighty,
blessed is the man who trusts in you!
Psalm 84:10-12
Thirsty?
God Bless Your Day!
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Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
Contemporary Trends and a Slow Economy
It's true, just as anything else is: decorating trends are cyclical. But even more interesting is that throughout time, decorating trends tend to reflect the financial stability of the market. Makes sense, right?? These styles are reflected on HGTV... However, even though the styles are simpler, they don't have to look "cheap"!
I actually love the clean and refreshing feel of the contemporary trends.
A few ways we see the trend implemented:
1.Less fabric!...fewer pleats, even blinds replacing window treatments in some cases.
2.Painted cabinets and trim... much more cost effective than new!...but also shows off..
3.Bolder wall color Selections!
4.Furniture: Straight lines rather than intricate carved wood
5. Frame-less Art Work
It is during these slower times that we see and have throughout the years... people getting creative with paint! Not only can proper color selections make a big impact on our environment (work or home) but it doesn't have to make a big dent in the wallet! You can also save money by painting your old cabinets and furniture rather than replacing them! (See older posts)
Consider hiring a professional for these projects... when done properly you will add value to your home!
Here are a couple pics of our freshly painted fitness room with a contemporary style!
As you can see, rather than using expensive plasters and multiple layers; I applied a simple pattern using very little material. This whole room effect, once the base-coat is completed can be accomplished in a matter of a couple of hours!
Visit KustomKate.com
I actually love the clean and refreshing feel of the contemporary trends.
A few ways we see the trend implemented:
1.Less fabric!...fewer pleats, even blinds replacing window treatments in some cases.
2.Painted cabinets and trim... much more cost effective than new!...but also shows off..
3.Bolder wall color Selections!
4.Furniture: Straight lines rather than intricate carved wood
5. Frame-less Art Work
It is during these slower times that we see and have throughout the years... people getting creative with paint! Not only can proper color selections make a big impact on our environment (work or home) but it doesn't have to make a big dent in the wallet! You can also save money by painting your old cabinets and furniture rather than replacing them! (See older posts)
Consider hiring a professional for these projects... when done properly you will add value to your home!
Here are a couple pics of our freshly painted fitness room with a contemporary style!
As you can see, rather than using expensive plasters and multiple layers; I applied a simple pattern using very little material. This whole room effect, once the base-coat is completed can be accomplished in a matter of a couple of hours!
Visit KustomKate.com
ARGH!!!! SPIDER!!!
Okay... I'll warn you now I had to voice my frustration with this creature I found today... but I do plan to post twice today and the second will be much better.
I need confirmation that this is a fiddleback... I'm sure Mike will be good for that... it scared the pants off me... and I attacked!
Although we haven't found one in almost 6 months... we have been told time and time again that we live in the south... and we live in the country so running into these guys is inevitable... doesn't make me feel warm and fuzzy though. Call exterminator is added to today's list of to-do's.
Visit KustomKate.com
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Loneliness, a thought for the day...
It's no secret that moving here at the time we did has resulted in a much more challenging environment to gain traction in the Decorative Art world.. My reaction to that has been to invest the time I have in building and nurturing relationships. A lot of times, I meet with another professional, we discuss in depth the services we provide and how our referrals can compliment eachother. Valuable time spent professionally, and as a bonus some of these relationships have evolved into friendships which I am greatful for!
Since moving here, however, my eyes have been opened to an entire world of hurting people that many of us forget about in the busyness of our day to day. I have encountered so many people who have really no one or very few people in their lives. I come from a huge family and have been blessed with friends that have stayed with me through every stage of my life. Now and then I get to feeling sorry for myself because I am home a lot by myself... and am reminded not to take for granted the wonderful and loving people I do have in my life!
I commit myself to be there for people who need a friend, or an ear. It's simple, we all know someone (often times elderly, but there are lonely and sad people in every age group) who could use a visit or a phone call. Who do you know that needs a visit? Instead of expecting someone else to... pick the phone.
The word of God tells us over and over again that God never leaves our side. Not only is that comforting, but it also helps to keep me accountable. My Uncle Jim once said something very simple and wise... don't do anything you wouldn't do if you knew that Jesus was right there in the room with you... because he is.
Just a couple of thoughts for the day! Have a good one :)
Visit KustomKate.com
Since moving here, however, my eyes have been opened to an entire world of hurting people that many of us forget about in the busyness of our day to day. I have encountered so many people who have really no one or very few people in their lives. I come from a huge family and have been blessed with friends that have stayed with me through every stage of my life. Now and then I get to feeling sorry for myself because I am home a lot by myself... and am reminded not to take for granted the wonderful and loving people I do have in my life!
I commit myself to be there for people who need a friend, or an ear. It's simple, we all know someone (often times elderly, but there are lonely and sad people in every age group) who could use a visit or a phone call. Who do you know that needs a visit? Instead of expecting someone else to... pick the phone.
The word of God tells us over and over again that God never leaves our side. Not only is that comforting, but it also helps to keep me accountable. My Uncle Jim once said something very simple and wise... don't do anything you wouldn't do if you knew that Jesus was right there in the room with you... because he is.
Just a couple of thoughts for the day! Have a good one :)
Visit KustomKate.com
Friday, January 30, 2009
What do you think?
Okay, I came up with a couple ideas using some of the products and techniques I do on walls combined with oil paints and canvas...
A little more contemporary than the fine Detail Oils I usually do... but I am thinking about introducing myself to gallery display... here are the first 2... so what do you honestly think... it doesn't have to be your style, but do you think they'd sell?? (you can comment anonomysly)
Above: Black is a reptile skin texture.
Both: Inset patterns done in metal-leafing
Visit KustomKate.com
A little more contemporary than the fine Detail Oils I usually do... but I am thinking about introducing myself to gallery display... here are the first 2... so what do you honestly think... it doesn't have to be your style, but do you think they'd sell?? (you can comment anonomysly)
Above: Black is a reptile skin texture.
Both: Inset patterns done in metal-leafing
Visit KustomKate.com
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
A day of Creating and Competing
I have been in a zone all day...
1. Implementing some new Ideas for Fine Art Canvases (Pics Later)
2. Making Samples to prove that my product is far superior to wallpaper.
Your honest opinion : My client had a wallpaper sales man tell him that a fine finish (2 samples below) would be too busy in comparison. ... without even seeing my samples!!!
Truth: Hiring a professional artist... you get to CHOOSE how busy... that's the joy of custom!
A Case for Paint:
No seams
Custom color.. not choice of 5, more like 5000!
No stripping, you can paint over it!..
Probably more cost effective....
Patchable, more durable
And... a good artist can recreate ANY wallpaper!
Visit KustomKate.com
1. Implementing some new Ideas for Fine Art Canvases (Pics Later)
2. Making Samples to prove that my product is far superior to wallpaper.
Your honest opinion : My client had a wallpaper sales man tell him that a fine finish (2 samples below) would be too busy in comparison. ... without even seeing my samples!!!
Truth: Hiring a professional artist... you get to CHOOSE how busy... that's the joy of custom!
A Case for Paint:
No seams
Custom color.. not choice of 5, more like 5000!
No stripping, you can paint over it!..
Probably more cost effective....
Patchable, more durable
And... a good artist can recreate ANY wallpaper!
Visit KustomKate.com
News Year: Trying to do better
This year, instead of trying to cut bad habits out of my life and diet; I decided to focus on 2 things that I want to do and get better at.
The first of my challenges to myself is to try and get up earlier on a regular basis. Probably hard to relate to if you're not in my exact position. I have been building relationships, laying the foundations for referrals, working on my own house and volunteering my time here and there. However in my postion being a self-employed non-morning-person, this has become a problem and I have to work on it. So far since New Years, I have made little improvement... maybe I need to schedule some morning things to make me accountable. (Please don't put me in a category of Lazy people because I wake up late, I DO work hard.)
The second of my challenges is to be Bolder for God this year than last. What I want to do is take that next uncomfortable step of faith and set myself apart as a lover of God and a Christ Follower more so than last year or the year before. As I have mentioned before, committing to do this once is not enough, we need to re-commit our hearts to God everyday. In this journey, we realize there is always room for improvement, and more we can do.
I don't want to miss out on opportunities to share the Love of God with someone who is thirsty and a complete stranger to it. I fail all of the time: sometimes, I am just a coward and choose to blend in with the rest of the world, sometimes I am focused on myself and don't realize I missed someone screaming for help until it's too late. I want to do that less this year.
I also am open to suggestions on how to approach people who use God's name in vain. How do you go about this without sounding self-righteous?
"You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name"
Deut 4:11
This being the 3nd commandment... God is clearly saying this is equal to if not worse than Murder, Lies, Stealing and Adultery. In my commitment to being bold for God, this is something that I don't want to look the other way at any longer.
"Blessed are those who hear the word... and obey"
Lk 11:28
Find the blessings in your day!
Visit KustomKate.com
The first of my challenges to myself is to try and get up earlier on a regular basis. Probably hard to relate to if you're not in my exact position. I have been building relationships, laying the foundations for referrals, working on my own house and volunteering my time here and there. However in my postion being a self-employed non-morning-person, this has become a problem and I have to work on it. So far since New Years, I have made little improvement... maybe I need to schedule some morning things to make me accountable. (Please don't put me in a category of Lazy people because I wake up late, I DO work hard.)
The second of my challenges is to be Bolder for God this year than last. What I want to do is take that next uncomfortable step of faith and set myself apart as a lover of God and a Christ Follower more so than last year or the year before. As I have mentioned before, committing to do this once is not enough, we need to re-commit our hearts to God everyday. In this journey, we realize there is always room for improvement, and more we can do.
I don't want to miss out on opportunities to share the Love of God with someone who is thirsty and a complete stranger to it. I fail all of the time: sometimes, I am just a coward and choose to blend in with the rest of the world, sometimes I am focused on myself and don't realize I missed someone screaming for help until it's too late. I want to do that less this year.
I also am open to suggestions on how to approach people who use God's name in vain. How do you go about this without sounding self-righteous?
"You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name"
Deut 4:11
This being the 3nd commandment... God is clearly saying this is equal to if not worse than Murder, Lies, Stealing and Adultery. In my commitment to being bold for God, this is something that I don't want to look the other way at any longer.
"Blessed are those who hear the word... and obey"
Lk 11:28
Find the blessings in your day!
Visit KustomKate.com
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Adorable Nursery!
Today and yesterday I painted a nursery for an expecting couple in Bixby, Oklahoma. I had lots of fun with this project... I love paisleys, and pink and green is probably my favorite color combination! Here are a couple pics...
We used 3 base-coat colors, and then added iridescent paisleys and a few bands of srtipes in varying widths... some metallic, some just pretty colors!
I think this is my favorite type of project to do... combine colors, and patterns and materials for a delicious effect!
Visit KustomKate.com
We used 3 base-coat colors, and then added iridescent paisleys and a few bands of srtipes in varying widths... some metallic, some just pretty colors!
I think this is my favorite type of project to do... combine colors, and patterns and materials for a delicious effect!
Visit KustomKate.com
Monday, January 19, 2009
Sunshine and Seeds
Today is January 19th, it is beautiifully sunny outside! I went a little nuts on saturday and bought some seeds for my garden so today, when I am done preparing for tomorrow's job, I plan get some seeds started.
Here's what I got:
Chives, Basil, Catnip, Cauliflour, Carrots, Alussum, Thyme, Celosia, Pansy, Impatiens, Wave Petunia, Morning Glory, Sunflower, Mesclun, Verbena, Dill Peas, Lettuce, Green Onion, Green Beans, Broccoli, Cucumber, Corn
I am thinking this is probably going to need to be a big garden! The question is... I have limited space inside.. so which do I start now... and which do I start outside? I have some planning to do!
I can't wait! It should start warming up soon!
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Here's what I got:
Chives, Basil, Catnip, Cauliflour, Carrots, Alussum, Thyme, Celosia, Pansy, Impatiens, Wave Petunia, Morning Glory, Sunflower, Mesclun, Verbena, Dill Peas, Lettuce, Green Onion, Green Beans, Broccoli, Cucumber, Corn
I am thinking this is probably going to need to be a big garden! The question is... I have limited space inside.. so which do I start now... and which do I start outside? I have some planning to do!
I can't wait! It should start warming up soon!
Visit KustomKate.com
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Ceiling Fan Face Lift
As you may have figured, I am slowly (it's my winter project) updating my kitchen with paint. I'm leaning towards a more contemporary style... I noticed this week that the ceiling fan was totally out of place... so I changed out the fan blades for white, and the glass...& painted the metal a pewter/nickel metallic today.
About a $25 project that took about an hour start to finish. It fits the space much better now :)
Before:
After:
Me waxing another section of cabinetry after painting white.
(The wallpaper you see is now gone, and below the white remains the last of the cabinets to be updated... for finished cabinets see older posts)
Look Professional?? It Is! For more Ideas........
Visit KustomKate.com
About a $25 project that took about an hour start to finish. It fits the space much better now :)
Before:
After:
Me waxing another section of cabinetry after painting white.
(The wallpaper you see is now gone, and below the white remains the last of the cabinets to be updated... for finished cabinets see older posts)
Look Professional?? It Is! For more Ideas........
Visit KustomKate.com
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Random Short Post
#1 Painting Myth: Don't size behind refridgerator when applying wallpaper. Had to bring it up because I have run into this more than once!
I am convinced that there was a big scotch tape CRAZE in the 70's... the last 2 homes we moved into had it ALL OVER the place. Good thing is that it comes off pretty easily, even after all this time... NEWS FLASH! It is not strong enough to hold a refridgerator together :)
I think Peacocks are beautiful... God is Awesome!
Okay, no more wasting time, I have a proposal to work up and a kitchen to paint!
Visit KustomKate.com
I am convinced that there was a big scotch tape CRAZE in the 70's... the last 2 homes we moved into had it ALL OVER the place. Good thing is that it comes off pretty easily, even after all this time... NEWS FLASH! It is not strong enough to hold a refridgerator together :)
I think Peacocks are beautiful... God is Awesome!
Okay, no more wasting time, I have a proposal to work up and a kitchen to paint!
Visit KustomKate.com
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
My Latest Saga
I probably shouldn't even discuss the situation... because in some ways I feel like it reflects on me as either oblivious, or a bad house-keeper. However, most of my two readers are either on twitter or facebook and know anyways, so I would like to share a part of the story. I have no idea how my indoor cats got fleas for the first time in their 10yr life, in a house with carpeting that no one has ever lived on before us... but they did.
Anyways THEY have been treated and will continue to be. I have stripped every pillow and mattress down to the bones, and vaccumed and laundered. They can't go in the bedrooms now because I will be doing laundry like it's my job for a month 'til the problem iis completely handled.
Mike was kind and picked up the carpet powder however I read the container and absolutely NOT comfortable using it. It is a pesticide, there is a great chance for sickness [us or cats] or death [cats], (I've been googling) especially after losing my father to a disease most likely caused by environmental toxins, and being a painter for 10 years... I have had enough chemicals... especially if I want this body to house a baby someday!
So I did some research... the vet did not even reccomend anything but vaccum often... she also said that soap and water will kill fleas... that is a fact. So google articles I found recomend sprinkle salt on carpet and vaccum up 24 hrs later. I think I will do that and then rent the carpet cleaner and soap the carpets in a couple days too. It sounds safe and effective... however I am open to any other safe and natural options.
As a side note, my meeting at panera went well today.... I met a couple business owners with unique skills and services to offer as they thought of some great referrals for me! We'll see... just keep pluggin :)
Visit KustomKate.com
Anyways THEY have been treated and will continue to be. I have stripped every pillow and mattress down to the bones, and vaccumed and laundered. They can't go in the bedrooms now because I will be doing laundry like it's my job for a month 'til the problem iis completely handled.
Mike was kind and picked up the carpet powder however I read the container and absolutely NOT comfortable using it. It is a pesticide, there is a great chance for sickness [us or cats] or death [cats], (I've been googling) especially after losing my father to a disease most likely caused by environmental toxins, and being a painter for 10 years... I have had enough chemicals... especially if I want this body to house a baby someday!
So I did some research... the vet did not even reccomend anything but vaccum often... she also said that soap and water will kill fleas... that is a fact. So google articles I found recomend sprinkle salt on carpet and vaccum up 24 hrs later. I think I will do that and then rent the carpet cleaner and soap the carpets in a couple days too. It sounds safe and effective... however I am open to any other safe and natural options.
As a side note, my meeting at panera went well today.... I met a couple business owners with unique skills and services to offer as they thought of some great referrals for me! We'll see... just keep pluggin :)
Visit KustomKate.com
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