The Painted Desk

My tween daughter has outgrown her desk, so we popped into a tiny antique store last weekend and found a steal of a deal! It's an adorable Queen Anne desk with a brand-new finish. However, I am planning to paint it to fit the rest of the room, which is sort of like a circus in there (black ceiling & chandelier, turquoise walls, white trim, upholstered black headboard, black secretary, white dresser, and a quilt in a kaleidoscope of colors)! I'm thinking of painting it white and doing just the drawer fronts with a funky pattern. Maybe chevron? Maybe polka dots? Maybe wallpaper or decoupage? Here's some inspiration:

Art Deco Desk

Love this! Especially the gold accents!

Vintage Desk Re-Do

This yellow one is very similar to the desk I just purchased for my daughter. I like the fabric inserts used under the glass. I think I want to go a little more funky, though.

A Little Busy?

I don't think I want to go this far. I do want her to be able to concentrate while she's doing homework, after all. But, if you like this one, check it out at Tracey's Fancy on Etsy ($660).

Maybe a Desk for Me!

Love how only part of this desk is painted. Gorgeous! If I had room for it, I'd buy this one for myself. From Shabby European Flair on Etsy ($849).

Inspiration!

Perfect! My daughter LOVES peacocks, and this color scheme is right up that alley. Precious! Ruthie's Rembrandts on Etsy is selling the desk & chair for only $375!

Good News in 2013

It's hard to believe the holidays are already over and 2013 is here! With all the craziness leading up to Christmas in my house, I never had a chance to finish my gift guide. Also, I was pretty bummed out with all the sadness surrounding Sandy Hook in early December. Just wasn't feeling motivated to blog about anything.

I have been tempted to start a blog that lifts my spirits and talks about all the wonderful, happy things happening in the world. The only events that ever make the news are negative ones. I want my kids to know that there are inspirational people with inspirational stories in this beautiful world of ours.

After some quick research, I found several websites that serve up good news on a regular basis! Have a look...and best wishes to you for a Happy New Year!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/good-news/

http://www.happynews.com/

http://goodnewsplanet.com/

A to Z Gift Guide: H - M

I am falling behind! So busy getting everything ready for Christmas! Here are some gift ideas for letters H through M.

Hot Pink Chevron Tote Bag

Love this bag made from a chevron tapestry upholstery fabric. Found it on Etsy ($245).

Industrial Foundry Mold Mirror

Mirror upcycled from an antique pine hex mold used to cast parts for U.S. Army tanks (Etsy -- $395.50).

Jade & Gold Buddha Pendant

How precious is this vintage carved jade buddha? Love the 14 karat gold outline of the setting, too! $349 from Sophie Jane on Ruby Lane.

Knot Cuff Links from Tiffany & Co.

Simple and handsome in sterling silver. $400 at Tiffany & Co.

Lovely Italian Marble Wine & Cheese Server

Hurry before this baby is gone! Beautiful vintage carrara marble & gold metal server from Vintage Finds on One Kings Lane ($89).

Mid-Century Lace Party Dress

Perfect little black dress from the 1950s (Etsy -- $146).

A to Z Gift Guide: G

I don't know about you, but I have a stack of gift cards that I'll probably never use. For Christmas this year, give a gift card that burns a hole in someone's pocket!

Jayson Home Gift Card

Jayson Home offers an ever-evolving collection of modern & vintage furniture and unique home accessories.

Etsy Gift Card

If you can't find something you love on Etsy (the world's handmade & vintage marketplace), then, I'm sorry, but you aren't human.

One Kings Lane Gift Card

I can't go on One Kings Lane every day. My bank account won't allow it!

Layla Grayce Gift Certificate

Have you seen the amazing collections on Layla Grayce?! Great gifts for women & kids.

A to Z Gift Guide: F

More great Christmas gifts...letter "F" for today.

Forgiveness

Sometimes the greatest gifts don't even cost a dime. Let go of your grudges and give the gift of forgiveness not only to someone else but also to yourself. This sign from Annie Rupers says it all.

French Art Nouveau Jewelry Box

Stunning gilt metal Printemps Paris box circa 1900 from Partner Antiques on Etsy ($196).

French Wire Factory Trays

I can think of quite a few uses for a set of these 100-year-old wire trays from Garden Variety Design on 1stdibs ($85 each).

Fabulous Dart Board Cuff Links

I always find it so difficult shopping for men! Aren't these mid-century dart board cuff links perfect, though? Found them at Treasure Keepers on 1stdibs ($99).