Can I really do this?

I'm super excited to share my next few projects with you guys. They're a little out of my comfort zone, but I'm trying new stuff here. I've typically stuck to my vintage 60s-80s pieces like these

Which are totally nice, but I feel like I'm in a painting rut. I find myself searching for the same things and painting the same colors all the time. One of THE biggest decisions that I have made recently, is to make a go of my furniture painting. I've always had the cushion of my regular job, and painting was my side girl. Now, as of Friday, I am unemployed in the corporate world, until we move. I feel like this is my chance to make my furniture a go. To show myself that I can do this. I have no more excuses.

I'm sure many of you have felt this before, it's that cliff we have all stood on. Can I do this? Can I support my family with this income. I really am a realist about this, I know this will not be a get rich quick job. I paint because I love to. That's it. But can my love keep me a float?

I also want the freedom to volunteer at my kids schools or go on field trips. My oldest will be going into grade eight next year, and I want to be able to help her with her hair in the morning. Is it too much to ask. I see many fellow bloggers, making a living doing what they love. I think I can too?

Alright, enough self talk. Time to set some goals. 

1. I will paint 3-4 pieces of furniture a week.
2. I will hit garage sales for good deals on Thursdays and Fridays.
3. Blog regularly.
4. Go to the gym 4 days a week. (This one is for me only)

The end. 

Sounds simple to me. Weekends are off limits, as this is our only family time with my hubby. Right now he lives 5 hours away Mon-Fri and comes home for the weekend. In between keeping my house show home ready and the kids, this should be easy...said no mom ever. 

I'll keep you guys posted on progress. I have 3 amazing items to pick up tomorrow. Can't wait to start on them Monday. First day of being my own boss.

Thanks for listening.

Anonymous Distressed Grey Sideboard

So, it's been awhile....but I'm back. I'll give my best explanation at the end of the post. Lets start with this gorgeous girl.

So this was me Thursday.

A little well known secret at our house,my husband dislikes furniture in his garage. I like my explanation. As you can see, he knows furniture all too well.

After much pulling and lifting this out of my car on my own (pat self on back), I managed to maneuvered her to the inside of our garage. 

I love the unique front doors. I tried to find a name anywhere in/on the sideboard. No such luck. 

For the piece I used Behr paint in the color Anonymous. I like to mix my own chalk paint, using a 2:1 ratio of paint to Plaster of Paris. I start with the Plaster of Paris in my red solo cup, and add enough water to make it thick but pourable. Then I stir in my paint, I usually let it sit for 30 minutes. After that, give it one more stir  (get rid of any lumps) and it's ready to use. Don't get me wrong, I love Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. But this is much more convenient for me, as there's only one store in Edmonton that sells it with limited hours. Here's what your looking for if you want to try my technique. I buy mine at Home Depot in the wood repair section.

Another product that I love and can't live without. Is my Rub'n Buff in Gold Leaf.

Here's a nice close up of my handles. It's so easy to apply. I like to wear gloves, dab a bit on my finger tip and rub it in. Doesn't it look gorgeous?

Lastly, I sealed her up with Minwax Polyurethane Water Base in Satin Clear finish. I am seriously loving this side board.

Now on to my year hiatus... So life got busy. I couldn't hold down everything, so my painting had to hold. Good news is I have more time on my hands now. My last day at my job is Friday, and I'll be painting full time till we move. Ooops, I forgot to mention we are moving provinces to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. I'm so excited for a new chapter in our lives. Hubby already moved in January, and the kids and I are waiting for the house to sell. I'm thinking part time work and furniture on the side. I guess we'll have to wait and see how it turns out. 

Here's something funny. First picture is 9:00 am yesterday morning.

Here's is 9:00 am this morning. Crazy Alberta weather for you.

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your week!

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Coffee Table Make-Over #2

So, I haven't had much luck with this coffee table. Do you ever paint a piece and look at it for a bit then think 'naw not the right color'. I had one of those times.

I found the table in the basement looking all sad and orange.

 First color choice. You can check out the post here. Meh. Looks ok. Plain. Neutral. Not really my style.

Nope. Not my favorite piece. Since I had some Duck Egg Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in the cupboard, why not try that.

Much better. Not sure if I will part with this one. Don't know where I'll put it, but I likey.

I am loving Duck Egg right now. Perfect color for the lake or to freshen up the house. 

How many projects have you re-done?

Linked up @

504main, thepinjunkie, myrepurposedlife, commonground, aglimpseinsideblog, missmustardseed, shabbynest

Chic By You Wednesday Link Party #7

Smells like spring, and snow is melting. Garage sale season is falling upon us. I have my bills in hand and waiting for the first sign! Can't wait. Do people create lists for items they are looking for? I can never seem to remember all the ideas I have. Perhaps I'll start my wish list.

On to the features of the week. The crowd pleasers are,

1. Thanks you for sharing Home Sweet Home Decor on Coastal Charm. What a charming shop.

2. I will be on the hunt for a 7-Up crate to recreate this vignette. Very rustic from Tania @ littlevintagecottage.

3. Very easy make-over. Go check out Vintage Paint and More, and say 'hi' to Cathy.

4. Darrielle @ D.D.'s Cottage and Design has shared another fab design. I am a huge fan of your site!

And my favorite from Sharon @ Elizabeth and Co. I am a sucker for coral, 100%.

Thank you everyone that shared their great projects on Chic By You. Lets get this party going!!

A few things

1. Please link up only your original posts.

2. Please back link to this page or use my button in the post. I will only feature posts that link back.

3. Visit other links and leave a comment. Lets pay it forward. Karma!

4. Follow me, to catch the party every week.

Most importantly, have fun sharing with each other.

Duck Egg Side Board for Easter Dinner

Hello. I wanted to squeeze in this post before we leave for the weekend to my in-laws. I had a client contact me to have a side board re-done. She really likes the over distressed look, which isn't my forte. Thank goodness she put her trust in me, because the piece turned out fabulous. Unfortunately the hardware is not on, as they're still drying on my garage floor. And I'm pretty sure I won't be able to lug this out to take a picture before she comes next week. So here it is. Ready for her to show off at Easter Dinner!

I actually had two firsts with this side board.
1. Over distressing (baby steps, next time I will do more) 
2. Using Duck Egg Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan

I love the tone.

Lots of extra distressing.

Before and after.

Hope you liked my first Duck Egg project. I think you might see more of this color. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your weekend.

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