"Free your mind and the rest will follow!"

This is what I feel like shouting from the rooftops!  Has it really been five months since I last blogged?  Yes.  Yes, it has.  

BUT... I HAVE AN EXCUSE.  A PRETTY DARN CUTE ONE.

To celebrate our little comeback at The Tiny Abode, I am teaming up with Lamps.com in this blog post.  Lamps.com contacted me to do a review on one of their products.  I felt that this would be the perfect motivation to get me back into the joys of blogging.  More importantly, I cleaned my desk!!

I am reviewing the Adesso Graham Desk Lamp. 

I chose this lamp due to its sleek design and pharmacy / industrial style.  As you can see, I have a quite traditional French Provincial desk. I needed something to modernize the room... add a little pizazz, if you will.  I was not too familiar with LED lighting prior to using this lamp.  I was quite intrigued!  See that tiny circle in the middle in the pic below... that's it!  Crazy, I know.  It's so tiny!

 But check this out!

For such a tiny bulb, it gives off substantial lighting.  I purposely took this photograph at night so that you could see the real affect.  The lighting was not what I expected at first, and it took me some time to get use to it.  Most of the standard bulbs which we purchase in stores are more of a warm light.  Warm lighting definitely has its place.  However, having the right type of lighting in the appropriate setting is what makes a space work.  I might not choose to have an LED light in my living room; a space where I want to feel warm and inviting... cozy... go ahead fall asleep on my couch.   In my work space, I need something that is going to keep me awake!  It's not unbearable, by no means.   It's appropriate. My husband, who is a painter, is always proclaiming how essential it is to have the right type of lighting.  Any photographer would second that!

Here are some perks about LED lighting provided by Adesso: 

* Energy Efficient

* LED's last up to 50,000 hours

* SAFE: does not get hot

* SAFE: shatterproof, vibration resistant

Oh, and I added some original oil paintings by Jason Espey Art.  That wall was crying for some attention.  See what a little ol' lamp can inspire you to do!  The space really does feel so much more inviting!  We have a lot of work to do in the bedroom still, but this is definitely a nice start!  

Thanks Lamps.com!  

And here's a lil' something to get you motivated! 

Disclaimer:  The information provided in this post is based on my own research and experience.  None of the above should be considered as a substitute for your own product research.

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SMS: Super Mom Syndrome

I recently signed up for Apartment Therapy's January Cure putting rather high expectations on myself.    We definitely have been putting our fair share into organizing our tiny abode in preparation for baby (Holy Heck!  Am I 35 weeks already!?), but by no means am I following the guidelines or email notifications that Apartment Therapy has been sending me (in which I signed up for).  On the other hand, I think that you should!  It's really a great tool, but there are WAY too many distractions and baby preparations going down in this apartment to seriously follow the this year's January Cure.  Being a perfectionist, I can't help but be a bit disappointed that I was not able to meet this expectation.  News Flash to Self:  I am not a Super Mom nor Super Woman for that matter. 

Now let's all take a moment to breathe, shall we?

If you follow my Facebook page, you will recognize this cute lil' cloud (available here).  This is one of the inspiration pieces I have found while designing our Sunshine themed nursery.  You can read more about our nursery inspiration here.  

This weekend we managed to attend a pregnancy preparation course... WOWZA!  The videos I watched.  Nuff said.  Thank God I now have this glider to come home to... in which I will be sure to practice my pelvic tilt rocking and breathing exercises.  

And here's where it gets real, Y'all!  This was and practically still is our current state of the room we refer to as "the nursery."  Oh, yes.  As hard as it is to tell, it's coming along!  Jason, the hubs / soon to be new dad, has been doing a great job applying layers of perfection into this massive piece of furniture.  

It's hard to tell now, but we are using Behr's Nocturnal Sea.  

Also, if you look really hard, you may even spy a crib.  More on that later.  5 WEEKS (at least I hope)!!!

My Little Sunshine...

This weekend was supposed to be full-on baby preparation.  Meaning, get the crap out of the nursery and organize or else TRASH (I would donate it... don't hate) everything!!  How in the world did we accumulate so much anyways?  Prior to our big move, we donated many items for the sake of not having to haul our junk across the eastern coastline.  Somehow it seems like we have more stuff!  I miss our basement.  At least we could hide our mess.  This is forcing me to become a minimalist. Something I aspire to be, but my parents could potentially be on Hoarders!  Just kidding, Mom.  Well, maybe.  

I decided that the best way to spend this Saturday was to organize the nursery in my head rather than  physically removing our crap from the nursery only to stuff it in some closet somewhere in which would more than likely be moved 15 more times in efforts to "organize."  Sorry for the massive run-on.  

I'm a visual learner.  Just looking at a mess gives me anxiety.  Where to even begin!?  Do you feel me?  For me organizing my ideas on paper, or in this case by creating a mood board, helps me know what steps to take.  Starting with the end in mind really is motivating!  Here's the direction I plan to take: 

Click on the image above for a better view.

Resources: 

Window Treatments - Santa Maria Desert Flower by Waverly

Vintage Lucite Lamps - Thrift store find

Vintage cocktail table - Philly curb alert

Vintage Faux Bamboo chest (not this exact one) - Atlanta Craigslist find

Lambskin rug - Atlanta Craigslist find

"Bee Happy" print - Spread the Love (Etsy store now closed)

Crib sheet - Rosenberry Rooms Petite Dots in Navy

Crib - Jenny Lind DaVinci Crib

Smile pillow - Pillow Talk

Crib skirt - Doodle Stripe Lime / Pure Organic Bright Pink by P. Kaufmann

An Impromptu Gender Reveal

Posting regularly has definitely been a challenge for me.  Sometimes I don't even know why I try to maintain a blog.  Then I remember that this is a creative outlet for me.  This is a way I am able to express my love for design, art, gardening, and well, life.  I have been thinking about life a lot lately seeing that I am carrying one inside of me.  It's a crazy wild experience, and it's not always an easy one.  The back pain and penguin walk are in full swing!  I will be 26 weeks pregnant on Monday.  

Moving to Atlanta from Philadelphia has been a very challenging experience.  New job.  New home.  New people.  New city.  We will soon add "new baby" to the list.  None-the-less, it is a blessing to be within driving distance to family and a few close friends.  Here's a little snippet on what's been going down at The Tiny Abode.

Gender Reveal

 This party was definitely impromptu!  I wasn't even sure if I was going to do a gender reveal.  It just seemed like a lot of unnecessary work and planning for a tired pregnant woman.  Almost everything you see in the pictures was stuff we had lying around the house or stuffed in moving boxes.  This just goes to show that you can plan a party without spending a lot of dough.  Here's what we did...

With the help of my mother and sister, we were able to make a cute pendant banner out of scrapbook paper and twine.  The fabric on the tables was purchased years ago at Jomar in Philly and was in the hub's box of fabric that he uses for still-life backdrops.  Jomar has a huge selection of fabric at wholesale prices.  I'd recommend it to anyone who is willing to dig.  I purchased the teal Mason jars from a vendor at Phila Flea Markets about 3 years ago for only $2 each.  That's a steal!  I was lucky enough to find the vintage Fiesta Ware at B & R Thrift Store here in Atlanta.  I bought it for myself weeks before the party with intentions on reselling it on Etsy (I'm considering opening an online seller's account... hasn't happened yet).  Throw on some pumpkins and add some florals... BAM!  You are ready for a party!

I am very fortunate to have talented to friends that I can call up on a moments notice.  My childhood neighbor who has her own business, Charlsie's Catering and Cakes, made my cake as a gift!  I was overwhelmed with gratitude.

All of the photos were taken by my very talented friend Ashley, the husband of my college roommate.  If it wasn't for them, I may not have been reunited with Jason back in San Francisco May of 2007. We'll save that story for another day.  

It's A...

GIRL!!!

Sorry Jason.  Better luck next time.

 We took the photo shoot above prior to revealing the gender to our families.  The BIG gender reveal actually happened during the cutting of the cake!

My mother's expression was priceless.  I'm not sure I would want to see her expression if it ended up being a boy.   We would have been happy either way.

 Lastly, I couldn't have pulled off this impromptu party without the help of my family.  We only invited immediate family with the exception of my college roommate.  I swear she's got my blood in her somewhere!  Keeping things simple eliminated the unnecessary stresses when it comes to party planning (in the matter of a moment's notice might I add).  Each person contributed in some form.  Whether it was bringing triangle tuna sandwiches or helping a preggo climb up a table to hang a paper banner.

Thankfully, Blount County is beautiful.  The pictures were taken at Palisades's Park in Oneonta, AL where the party was also held.  It was great for the kids to have a place to play while the adult's mingled.  I had some of my childhood parties here as well, so it made it a bit sentimental. 

Our little one is expected to arrive February 17th 2014.  Let's hope and pray that she stays inside her incubator for that time-frame!

Wild Thang!

We have been waiting to share...

Video Created By: The Tiny Abode

(Image credits listed below)

It's TRUE!!!!

There is a beast growing inside of me!  

We have yet to determine the gender of this little creature.  In fact, upon moving to Atlanta, I was under the impression that I would be having an ultrasound at my first appointment here at 17 weeks.  When I was informed by the midwife (that's right... not a doctor, not yet anyway) that I was being delusional these were the words that I managed to utter out of my mouth, "I think I'm going to cry."  Yep.  Damn hormones.  I know that 17 weeks is a little early to determine the gender, but I have had friends who found out early.

18 Weeks here...

 Image: The Tiny Abode

Here are the images that are in the video with information on how you can purchase them for your nursery, a client's room, or as a gift to an expecting parent!  I think they would be great in a child's room!  They're so imaginative and playful!

The print above is by an artist from Omaha, Nebraska, Jennifer Walsh.  She is the monster mind behind Creative Wild Child.  You can purchase the print on her Etsy store here.

I love this quote!!  Allyssa Zemke, designer / crafter, of Olive + Birch based in Salt Lake City has the image above available as a digital downloadable print at the size of your choice.  This is an affordable option to get a great print!  The image is available to purchase on her Etsy shop here. 

I hope you enjoyed our announcement!  I know we have been keeping it a secret for way too long!  For those of you who already knew, a BIG thanks for keeping your lips sealed too!  We know it was hard!!

Baby and nursery updates are on the horizon!

~XOxo~

Brooklyn, Brooklyn, Where've you been?

Lately my Facebook page and Instagram is getting a lot more attention than what started all this madness, my blog.  Blog, you are not a middle child, like myself.  Well, maybe you are, but I will give you the content that your audience craves.  

It's Flea Market Season, Y'all!

Brooklyn Flea came to Philly, and they BROUGHT it!  

Ooooo... I love a pretty bird cage.  I'd throw a terrarium up in that!  The chair was $10.  TEN DOLLARS!!!  A seat cushion is the easiest thing in the world to reupholster and a quick and cheap face-lift.  I would use it as a desk chair.  Should of bought it.  Darn.

Here is some more flea market eye candy... 

 

If I had money falling out of my armpits (did I just say that... I'm going with it), this is what I would buy... 

 

My faves...

 

 

I know your eyes must be glued to that pink and black dress... think again... that's a jumpsuit!  LOVE it, but I am not that brave.  Well, not $130 brave.  Maybe if it was $30 I wouldn't feel so bad purchasing it, knowing that what it would take to convince myself to throw it on before work.  Yes, I'm the crazy girl that would actually wear this to work!  My non-profit agency would not know how to handle all this awesomeness.  Ok, I think you get that I love it.  I won't shut-up about it!

 

Don't skimp on the textiles... 

 

Most vendors at flea markets have prices reduced to wholesale value.  These woven textiles would easily sale for $100 at Pottery Barn.  I can't remember the exact price, but I do remember thinking, "What a steal!"  I couldn't justify buying it for myself, but I think it would be a great house warming gift!

 

Best Advice...

 

Shop with friends!  There's nothing like having a gal pal to keep you laughing as you rummage through vintage goods and imagine how your Great Aunt Sal used to make do with a rotary phone!!  What is that, anyways!?!

Friends can be inspiring also, especially when they kinda do this or are on there way of being artisans / designers for a living!  Having insight other than your own is a wonderful thing!  I love to listen to other peoples ideas on how they would dress-up an item. 

 And don't be intimidated by bringing a babe along.  They're fun and super cute!!

The Brooklyn Flea Market is going to be in Philly every Sunday in Northern Liberties at the Piazza at Schmidt's.  10AM - 5PM.  Rain or shine.

 If you just can't get enough of The Tiny Abode outings and need your daily fix, be sure to follow us on Facebook or Instagram.  Our favorite design styles are also collected on Pinterest.  I'll admit it, my Pinterest boards ROCK!

Old Man Weather... Go Away!

Uhhh.... hello Spring?  Are you there?  I have been eager to become one with the earth.  I know I  sound like a hippy, but that's what a concrete jungle will do to you after five years!  Here in Philly it's a bit too soon to start filling my window boxes with jubilant perennials, so I have been tending to my succulents and other indoor plants instead.

Photo: The Tiny Abode

These neat Chinoiserie teacups were left behind by one of my previous neighbors.  I'm worried that they may have been part of  his mother's collection.  Yikes!  I couldn't bare to see them get  chunked by the clean-out crew.  Therefore, they have found a happy place in my home as plant containers, and I am quite proud of how they turned out!  If anyone can tell me any information about them you will be my new BFF for the day!  I have searched the internet and have found nothing!

Photo: The Tiny Abode

Like any normal city-slicker in Philadelphia, I head outside the city to Terrain for some much needed inspiration.  I am loving the look of these anemones... so much that I have already purchase a bundle of bulbs from Lowe's.  I'm wondering if I should start them indoors, or wait until April to plant them like the instructions direct. Where do you go when you need inspiration? 

Photo: The Tiny Abode

I foresee a beautiful window box in my future. 

SPRING MEANS BIRTHDAYS!

Despite the frigid weather, spring is a reminder of new life and celebrations.  All of my sisters (I am one of three) have spring birthdays.  My younger sister just recently gave birth to yet another spring baby.  Well technically it's autumn in New Zealand.

Designed by: The Tiny Abode

 We are so excited to have a new baby in our family!  Thank you Brittany and Scott for  giving our parents a grandchild... we owe you big time!  Like any crazed aunt, I am pinning, tweeting, and yes blogging about any amazing deal or cute baby item that I lay eyes on.  One of my favorite places to shop online for great deals is Zulily.  These are all items that I have personally purchased for family and friends.  I am not getting paid to say this.  If you are interested in other online stores, check out the listings on the left of this page.

Designed by:  The Tiny Abode

If you are one of the lucky ones who received one of these gifts, you can vouch for me. Are there any online shops which you love to shop?  I'd love to hear your secrets too. In the meantime, I'm going to continue to birthday shop.  I have lots of nieces and a nephew too.  I'll leave you with this display from the Macy's Flower Show from a recent trip that the hubs and I took to NYC.

Photo: The Tiny Abode

Oh Baby, Baby!!

Designed by: The Tiny Abode
 

Before you say congratulations to me, I'm not the pregnant one {but my baby sister is!!!}.  That's right, this girl is going to be an aunt!  This is the birth announcement I made for my sister who lives in New Zealand.  They call each other kiwi's there, like I might call you my homie.  Just kidding, I would never call anyone homie.  The announcement has made it's rounds on Facebook, so I feel that it is safe for me to post without stealing all my sister's glory.  Can I just say that I'm super impressed with my graphic design skills right now!  Agreed?  

On another note, I can't get Salt-N-Pepa's song Push It out of my head!

Lil' Peanut Baby Shower

It's been a crazy hot mess around here, but I thought I would share with you what we have accomplished during this heat! Ok, really it's just an update on the Little Peanut themed baby shower. 

So go ahead a take a peek...

In this video you will see the invitation which I modified from a free template and a thank you card which I designed.  By the way, sorry for the poor video quality.  This is my first time creating a video, so be kind.  I swear it looks top notch from my video player.   We'll save Video 101 for another day. 

Design Consultation: The Tiny Abode
Set-up: Family of the Guest of Honor
 Photography: Jessica Espey @ The Tiny Abode
 Lil' Peanut Invitation (Template: Bump Smitten, Edited by The Tiny Abode)
Ribbon Wreath by Jessica Espey @ The Tiny Abode (seen here)
Lil' Peanut Thank You Card designed by Jessica Espey @ The Tiny Abode

P.S. The mom-to-be popped Baby Stella out a lil' earlier than expected.  We've got work to do!

Peanuts, and Elephants, and Hearts... Oh My!

About a month ago, I received a sweet lil' peanut baby shower invitation in the mail!  I was very excited to see the final results since I edited the original version from an yellow-ish / gray color scheme to a yellow / teal color scheme.  

BEFORE (unedited version available for free at Bump Smitten):

Image: Bump Smitten

AFTER (edited by The Tiny Abode):

 **Names, phone numbers and addresses have been changed**

 

I think the edited version turned out super cute, and I couldn't be more proud!  I'm still learning all the tricks of the trade, and I am not fortunate enough to have Photoshop!  So my friend Picasa and I have been spending long nights with one another.  

My friend, and mommy to be, decided that she wanted to carry over the lil' elephant from the invitation into the thank you card.  This morning (we work together) she shared with me a dream that she had last night which included me designing her thank you cards.  For all of you who may be curious, I by no means am a designer, nor have I had any professional training in design.  However, I do like a good challenge!!  
Hence my day job (special ed. supervisor... nuff said).     

I decided to make my co-worker / mommy-to-be / friend's dream come true!  Or I thought I'd at least try!  Sounds like a fairy-tale, right!?!  It's not often that you can make dreams come true.

Designed by: The Tiny Abode

After many, many attempts, here is the final product of my thank you card design for my dear friend's Lil Peanut themed baby shower!! This is my first thank you card, so I'm a bit proud. I think it goes well with the overall theme and the ribbon wreath I made in April.

P.S. For all you regular readers, I've been a bad blogger.  Sorry about that.  Super busy with art shenanigans with the hubs!!