We added a carpet runner to the basement stairs in our old house. They weren't a standard size and we started with the wrong tools, but we worked it out and we're sharing so you can avoid the pitfalls. Our family room renovation/ redecoration project began way back in January. And believe it or not, that space is still in process. What started with the {not so simple} desire to replace my old, worn out floral sofa , turned into a total gut job. Complete with a new paint on the walls and ceiling, a new window and laminate floor. Of course, when you start a project, others follow.

Make your very own taper candle rings with this quick, easy and elegant home decor craft for Christmas. Grab your supplies at the dollar store and whip them up in minutes for a fun and festive holiday look. Candles are a decorating staple in my home all year long. However during the Christmas season, they're literally everywhere . I used to rely on mini lights to illuminate my rooms, but for the past several years, I've replaced them with candles. There's just something about them. A bit more charming. A bit more cozy. And a whole lot less annoying to set up.

One of my all time favorite holiday past times is turning trash into to Christmas treasure.  This week, I gave another old sled an unexpected makeover with fabric and it's just darling.  Christmas crafting is always a treat. I get to sit down and take a break from cooking and cleaning to get my hands dirty and sink into my favorite hobby. As a bonus, I end up with a beautiful home decor addition for tiny cottage.

Bookcases are great for storage and organization, but when you don't want to see what you have on the shelves you can create curtains and make it all disappear.  Here's how. A few weeks ago, I sent my beloved floral sofa to the curb. It was a bittersweet day, for sure. Yes, yes, I did get a gorgeous, brand new one that I adore, but let's face it, that rose covered couch was a favorite and it held a special place in my heart. So much so that when it went out the door, it did so almost naked.  Yup, I stripped that baby down to the frame. I removed any cushion covers that weren't ripped and grabbed a razor blade to cut giant pieces away from the wood. While the rest of the fabric may have been tattered and worn, the yards behind the cushions and on the back of the sofa were pristine. Hidden away from the sun they were flawless, just waiting to be called into service again, when needed. Well, to be honest, I thought that day would be a long time in the future, when I was

Stenciled porch sitter signs are a great way to decorate your entryway, without spending a lot of time or money. I've made two for Christmas and I'm totally smitten. Here's how to get a professional look. And have some fun. Summer is definitely my favorite season, that's no secret, but Christmas. Well. While not technically a season, I'd consider it a close second. Maybe even a tie. So when it comes to celebrating it in July, I'm always on board. I get to combine hot and hazy days at the beach with a bit of holiday crafting. Just thinking about it, makes me smile.

I'm a waste not, want not kind of girl. I think it was my upbringing. My parents were depression era babies and my sweet mother definitely taught us all the value of a dollar. So I've always been a bargain shopper and a frugal decorator. I love shopping at thrift stores, yard sales and in clearance aisles, turning trash into holiday home decor treasure . I also hold onto things forever.

Well, Ho-Ho-Ho-Hello my holiday friends. You're not going to believe it, but today, I, the girl who never decorates until the day after Thanksgiving is going to show you a little Christmas decor. I know. It's shocking. But I must confess. I love it so much, it may become a habit.