Snow Day and some contemplation

It is a beautiful winter day here in Texas.  Our first snow is falling for this year and we are having a great family day just hanging out by a roaring fire and enjoying each other! 
Photo by Isabel Owens
It's a cold chili day like today that I love so much because everyone here in Texas STOPS what they are doing.  It seems we all freak out whenever we get any kind of wintry mix weather.  The minute anyone sees a touch of snow or ice, the streets become empty and the only thing you see are kids exploring the outdoors to see if "maybe" there is a chance at getting a slide down a hill on a cookie sheet.  You should have heard the shrieks of excitement from my kids the minute one little flake fell to the ground (such fun for a mom to hear).

Google Images

This kind of weather makes everyone STOP and ENJOY and I love those moments.  I am trying to notice and enjoy more of those moments this year.  I'm making it a point to stop and take in the details of everyday exchanges.  I feel I miss too many of those times with my friends and family because I'm too busy trying to do my next project or check things off my "to do" list. 

Google Images
Today, I've been catching up on my reading.  A pile of great magazines is sitting beside me and I'm slowly catching up on some of my favorite blogs too.  I'm focusing on each page and loving every minute of it!  Listening to the kids interact as they enjoy being home is a beautiful thing and I definitely don't take it for granted. 

I'm feeling thankful that this beautiful snow has brought some rest and a bit of contemplation to this home today!  The dog even got a warm bath and is snuggled up in her bed.

Photo by Planteware.com 2010
Here is hoping that it will snow more tonight so we can have more of this wonderful time tomorrow!   If it snows enough to make a snow angel, I'm going out there to make one!

Regret for the things we did can be tempered by time; it is regret for the things we did not do that is inconsolable. Sydney Harris

Ruthie

Visit my website at DecRenew.com
 to see before and after pictures of my work.

Wave that paint brush wand

If you are looking for a quick change in your home, paint is your answer.
How many of you are sitting in a living room right now and look at your fireplace every day and hate it?
Here is a fireplace that we transformed using a little paint and a bit of labor.  The brick had a pink hue to it and it just HAD to go!  The mantel was just kind of blah and needed some strength to make it look more dramatic.  My client was on a budget so we couldn't go overboard with tearing things out and starting over.  No problem.....we can fix anything with a paint brush in hand.

BEFORE
AFTER
Isn't it so much better?  We also painted the whole room with a wonderful warm "coffee" color.  Now it has some  personality and style and speaks to you when you enter the room.
Everyone needs a room that speaks kindly to them right?
Ruthie
Visit DecRenew Interiors to see more before and after pictures to inspire you!

Goodbye 80's Bathroom

This "tiny" little bathroom needed some serious attention.  It was looking so sad.
We took out the pedestal sink because it was dated.  We put in a new black curved vanity which helps the small room feel less crowded.  I took the old hardware off the new cabinet because it was a little wimpy and I added crystal knobs that added sparkle.  The vanity also has extra storage which the client was happy about!  The new tile we added is light and beautifully textured.  The decorative tile around the curve of the vanity really makes this room come alive.  Taking away the stripped wallpaper and painting the room a yummy warm tone made this little escape very restful and cozy... yippee!
We added a new frameless mirror and a gorgeous light fixture with linen shades.  We are hanging the new red cabinet above the toilet next week and that will complete this little transformation.
These simple changes made this bathroom the place most guests will want to visit whether YOU want them to or not!
Ruthie
Visit DecRenew Interiors to see more before and after photos that will inspire you.

Entry Before and After

I've had fun over the last few weeks working with a client.  We've done updates throughout the whole downstairs as Phase I.  The floors have been replaced from carpet to wood, all the walls and trim have been repainted, the staircase got a revamp and the fireplace received a makeover.  The downstairs powder room got a total remodel as well.  Yesterday I spent the day doing a final install since all the work is finished.  We placed their furniture, added rugs, lamps, artwork and accessories. Of course, we incorporated the items they have collected over the years too! It was a fun day!
Here is a glimpse at their entry for today.
ENTRY BEFORE
Photo by DecRenew Interiors
ENTRY AFTER
Photo by DecRenew Interiors
An entry always makes such a grand difference when updated!
Below is a little niche as you enter their house. 
Photo by DecRenew Interiros
Photo by DecRenew Interiors
It was a waste of space before and now we have transformed it into something special.  By using a narrow rounded buffet we kept the space open!  Perfect for storage too.
I'll share more photos after Christmas! 
Photo by DecRenew Interiors
I'm taking some time to spend with my family.  I hope you have a special time with those you love over this Christmas holiday.
Ruthie
Visit my website DecRenew Interiors to be inspired!