Now that we’ve spent more time at home than ever before we’re looking for ways to update our space for little to no money at all. You’ll be seeing more content coming your way as we make our way from room to room. But for now here’s some really great ways to get yourself started on this task too!
First up we’ve got 7 ways to update your home for free! Yep, this one has something for every day of the week. We wanted to make sure we kept you busy.
From there let’s chat about ways to make your space feel like home. While this post was written as a Q+A for all of our readers that are renting, we truly think these tips are perfect for anyone trying to make their home feel, well, a little bit more like home!
Now let’s not forget the heart of your home. And if you’re anything like us that place that might just be giving you the most comfort right now…your kitchen. Here’s how to style your kitchen with things you already have!
Happy Updating! We can’t wait to see what you do. Tag us over on IG or Facebook so we can have a look, too!
Now this is a post I never saw coming. As many of you know I have two degrees in Education. In fact I taught here in Michigan and just outside of Chicago along the NorthShore for several years. I have my undergraduate degree in early childhood education with an emphasis in Elementary education. And I have a masters degree as a reading specialist with an emphasis in Special Education. Needless to say, I’ve got a few things up my sleeves when it comes to teaching children.
Reading/Literacy
How To Teach A Love Reading
The most important thing in any home is to teach your children the love for reading. I just can’t stress this enough. This post breaks down just that! From what to do and how to make this happen in your home, even if you aren’t an avid reader yourself!
Ways To Make Everyone A Reader
Once you’ve got the whole foster reading thing down in your house, developing those skills or teaching reading skills for some of us might be up next. Here’s the perfect post on how to make your child a reader.
You guys this post is perfect for all readers in your house…it might even be what you needed to know about why you aren’t reading. In this post I break down exactly how to pick just the right book and some really easy tips for early readers that will keep you from pulling your hair out and everyone happy at the same time!
Life Skills
Let’s Talk About Money
I am all about teaching life skills in this household. Addition and subtraction is something we all use on a daily basis. Money is another one. With two little dudes in this house we want to ensure they’ve got that skill down. Here’s another simple money life skill post for you!
Here’s another one on ways to win with your toddler, because let’s be honest, we all need ways to win right now. These are tips we plan to use all throughout parenting so it is well worth the read!
And last but not least, 9 ways to be a happier, less stressed mama! I love this post so much. It is a solid daily reminder of how we can all do better, be better and enjoy life even in times like these.
Is that something we really need to do? Absolutely! Make time for things in life that make us happy, truly happy. Those things that fill us up and make us so glad we woke up today. So often our days are controlled by things we cannot actually control: meetings, obligations, appointments…the list goes on and on. We find ourselves sitting down to build our schedule around things we can not actually control vs looking at the parts of our day we can and filling those parts with things we love and want to do.
We just recorded a podcast on this exact topic. Check out the Stay True Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!
With everything happening in our lives now, I am finding my perspective to completely changing in regards to my schedule and how I actually make time for my life. Over the past few months I found myself making a mental list of all the things I wanted in my life. I knew I needed to get these things on to paper, so I sat down and made a list of all the things I want to do in my life daily, weekly, monthly and yearly. I really thought about the things I want to have in my life – all the little things that often get overlooked or passed up. So, I started with a list of things I wanted to have in my life daily, weekly, monthly and yearly. From there I broke my list down into ways I could schedule these things into my life by looking at the times of my day I could control.
Today I am going to share my list with you in hopes that it will motivate you to try to find time for you in your life too. Remembering we are each unique and individual so our list should look different. Mine can be used as a starting point to get your thinking going, which I truly hope you take the time to do.
I am moving into block scheduling which isn’t new for me. This is what I have used all through teaching. Through this schedule I am able to block together time to accomplish tasks throughout my day. I like to have longer blocks of time in my schedule that allow me to accomplish the task at hand more efficiently, as well as be present in that moment. I am breaking down my day into 7 time blocks and truly think this type of scheduling can work for anyone.
I am using natural breaks in my day to create my block schedule. My first block is from the moment I wake up till we take our kids to school (at least what would normally be school drop off). I’ve built-in a transition time between blocks to allow myself the gift of time and the feeling of abundance of time, because it is such a great feeling. My second block is from when I get home until lunch. Again, eating is a natural breaking point in my day which not only reminds me to do so, but allows me time to transition. My third block is from lunch until school pickup or what is now called the end of the school day. Here, I stop earlier than needed to again allow for transition time and get my mind wrapped back into mom mode from work mode. The next time block is from after school until dinner. After that we our next block from after dinner until bedtime and then our final block of the day is from when we put our boys to bed until we go to sleep.
Times Of My Day That I Can Control
Since I have full control of my morning and evening times I make sure to jam pack those with things I want to accomplish daily. Here’s a look at our time blocks and how I use them to live a life I want.
5:00-8:00 – Morning Personal Time/Getting Ready for School
9:00-12:30 – Morning Work/ Home Office Time/Lunch
12:30-3:30 Afternoon Work/Client Meetings
3:40-5:30 After School Time
6:00-7:30 After Dinner Time
8:00-10:00 After Bedtime/Personal Time
I honestly love this look at my daily, weekly, monthly and yearly goals. I have my schedule blocked Monday-Saturday which has allowed me to be more effective in my day and present which makes me truly happy. I’m wasting less time on things that don’t truly matter in life. Tell me what are some of the things you want in your life daily?
I love the look of wood stacked next to our fireplace. What I don’t love is the idea of tiny little bugs, big bugs or any kind of bugs inviting themselves into our home to make their own home inside my decorative firewood. Seeing how we’ve got a gas fireplace that will never actually use the wood it is purely there to look pretty! I believe we’ve created the perfect solution to how to make a real indoor firewood stack that will not bring bugs inside!
I you are looking for ways to heat your home in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way? One of the best ways to do so is by using firewood. However, simply stacking firewood in your yard isn’t enough. To make the most out of your firewood and ensure it stays dry and ready to use, you need to stack it properly. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a sustainable natural firewood stack.
Step by step guide to indoor firewood stack
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
The first step in creating a sustainable natural firewood stack is to choose the right location. You want to pick a spot that’s level and well-drained, so the stack doesn’t tip over and so the wood stays dry. Avoid areas that are prone to flooding or that are near trees or other structures that could fall on the stack in strong winds.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground
Once you’ve found the right location for your firewood stack, the next step is to prepare the ground. Clear any grass or other vegetation from the area, and if necessary, level the ground using sand or gravel. This will ensure that the stack is stable and won’t tip over.
Step 3: Gather Your Materials
To build a sustainable natural firewood stack, you’ll need the following materials:
The next step is to build the base of your firewood stack. Lay out a row of concrete blocks or bricks in the center of the prepared area. These will serve as the foundation for the stack and will help keep it stable.
Step 5: Stack the Firewood
Once the base is in place, it’s time to start stacking the firewood. Start by placing a few logs on the base, and then continue stacking more logs on top, making sure each row is slightly smaller than the one below it. This will help prevent the stack from toppling over.
Step 6: Secure the Stack
As you stack the firewood, use twine or rope to secure each row. Wrap the twine around the logs and tie it off. This will help keep the stack together and prevent it from falling apart.
Step 7: Add Stakes or Poles
To further stabilize the stack, you can add stakes or poles around the perimeter. Drive the stakes or poles into the ground and then tie them to the stack using twine or rope.
Step 8: Cover the Stack
Finally, to protect the firewood from the elements, cover the stack with a tarp or other waterproof material. Make sure the cover extends to the ground and is securely fastened to the stakes or poles.
In conclusion, building a sustainable natural firewood stack is a great way to heat your home while being environmentally friendly. By following these steps, you can ensure that your firewood stays dry and ready to use, so you can enjoy cozy fires all winter long.+
Pro Tips:
It’s important to start with treated firewood. This way you are starting out with wood that is likely bug free as it has already been kiln dried. Firewood that isn’t treated or seasoned could run the risk of having bugs living inside it!
Use matte polyurethane. The matte finish leaves a much more natural look to the wood when it dries. A satin or gloss finish with show reflections in the light and look fake…which is not at all what you are going for here.
It’s that simple guys! Enjoy your bug free wood now as they are sealed in and protected.
Much Love –
Loving all you see here, check out these blogs for even more New Again topics!
Where Is The Best Spots For Your Kitchen Recessed Lighting?
When planning your lighting in a new space, recessed lighting is always a solid option to ensure your space is getting enough light. Kitchens, for example, require more lighting versus other areas inside your home. We’ve created a guide to help you think through how to place your recessed lighting correctly in your home.
Kitchen
Kitchens need to provide a lot of light for your work space, and in here, it’s ok to have extra lighting. You want to make sure you are properly placing your lighting so you don’t have dark spaces inside your kitchen. You want to make sure the light does not create a shadow behind you. Creating a lighting perimeter around your base cabinets is what we like to do.
HOW TO FIGURE OUT THE DISTANCE BETWEEN RECESSED LIGHT FIXTURES IN A KITCHEN
Pro tip
24” off wall with cabinets
36”- 48” off wall with a refrigerator, or 24” cabinet/pantry cabinet
36”- 48” apart on the ceiling
Everywhere Else
HOW TO FIGURE OUT DISTANCE BETWEEN RECESSED LIGHTING FIXTURES
Where to Place Pendant Lighting for Maximum Effect
Pendant lighting is a versatile and stylish addition to any home. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color or create a cozy ambiance, pendant lighting can be the perfect solution. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to place your pendant lights for maximum impact. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to hang pendant lighting in your home.
Above the Kitchen Island
The kitchen is one of the most popular rooms in the house, and the island is often the centerpiece. Hanging pendant lights above your kitchen island can create a focal point and add task lighting for food prep or casual dining. Opt for a cluster of pendant lights to make a statement, or choose a single pendant light for a more subtle look.
Over a Dining Table
If you have a formal dining room, hanging pendant lights over the dining table can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for meals. Choose pendant lights that are proportionate to the size of the table and make sure they’re positioned at the right height. A general rule of thumb is to hang pendant lights 30-36 inches above the tabletop.
In the Living Room
Pendant lights can also be used in the living room to add task lighting or create a cozy ambiance. Hang pendant lights over a side table or reading chair for task lighting, or place them in the center of the room for a more dramatic look. When hanging pendant lights in the living room, make sure they’re positioned high enough to avoid blocking the view of other decor.
In the Bedroom
In the bedroom, pendant lights can be used as task lighting or to create a soft and inviting atmosphere. Hang pendant lights on either side of the bed for reading lights, or place them above the nightstands for a more decorative look. When hanging pendant lights in the bedroom, make sure they’re positioned at a height that won’t interfere with getting in and out of bed.
In the Bathroom
Pendant lights can also be used in the bathroom to add task lighting or create a spa-like atmosphere. Hang pendant lights above the vanity for task lighting or place them in the shower area for a relaxing and luxurious experience. When hanging pendant lights in the bathroom, make sure they’re positioned at a safe height and away from water sources.
In conclusion, pendant lighting can be a stylish and versatile addition to any room in your home. When hanging pendant lights, consider the purpose of the lighting and the size of the room. With these tips, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to hang your pendant lights and enjoy the ambiance they bring to your home.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Light Fixture by Clark+Aldine
Upgrading your light fixtures can be a simple and affordable way to refresh the look of any room in your home. Whether you’re installing a new fixture or replacing an old one, this step-by-step guide from Clark+Aldine Interior Design will help you complete the project with confidence.
Step 1: Gather the Tools and Materials You Need:
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and materials:
Before you start working on the light fixture, it’s important to turn off the power to the area you’ll be working in. This can be done by switching off the circuit breaker or removing the fuse that controls the circuit. To be extra safe, you can use a voltage tester to confirm that there is no electrical current flowing through the wires.
Step 3: Remove the Old Light Fixtures:
To remove the old light fixture, simply unscrew it from the electrical box in the ceiling. If the fixture is mounted with screws, you may need to remove the screws first before you can access the electrical box. Once the fixture is removed, separate the wires by releasing the wire nuts and carefully tucking them into the electrical box.
Step 4: Install the Ceiling Box and Bracket (if Necessary):
If your electrical box is not suitable for your new light fixture, you may need to install a ceiling box and bracket. This is typically the case when the electrical box is too small or is not designed to support the weight of your new fixture. To install the ceiling box and bracket, you’ll need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Step 5: Connect the Wires:
Next, you’ll need to connect the wires from your light fixture to the electrical box. Most fixtures come with a color-coded wiring diagram to help you determine which wire goes where. Simply match the wires from the fixture to the wires in the electrical box, and then twist the wire nuts onto the wires. Use electrical tape to secure the wire nuts and prevent them from coming loose.
Step 6: Install the Light Fixtures:
Finally it’s time to install the light fixture itself. If your fixture came with mounting hardware, use the screws and mounting plate to secure the fixture to the electrical box. If your fixture is designed to be hung, you’ll need to install the chains or rods first, and then attach the fixture to the chains or rods.
Step 7: Test the Light Fixtures:
Once the light fixture is installed, it’s time to turn the power back on and test the fixture. Make sure that the fixture is securely mounted and that all the wires are properly connected. If everything is working correctly, you’re ready to enjoy your new light fixture!
In conclusion, installing a light fixture can be a simple and affordable way to upgrade the look of your home. By following this step-by-step guide from Clark+Aldine Interior Design, you can complete the project with confidence and enjoy your new fixture for years to come.
Things to know
First, before you do anything, turn off power to the light in which you are looking to install. You do not want to get shocked or hurt in any way…it just isn’t worth it.
If you need to be up on a ladder to switch the fixture we recommend having another set of hands around to help.
When removing the old light fixture be sure to take note of how it is wired up. The wiring in some older homes often has us scratching our heads on how and why they wired it a certain way. Also, be sure to cap the wires.
What to look for
Again, make sure you understand how the fixture was wired up and follow the same path with your new fixture. When installing your mounting bracket pay attention to the style of the bracket and where the wires will feed. Oftentimes pendant wires run through a center pipe into the box and need to be fed before the mounting bracket is attached. Be sure to read the installation directions before you start…I’ve been known to ignore those in the past and it creates more work than necessary.
You guys, let’s talk about light bulbs. Yes, for real, light bulbs. We all have them. We all use them. Yet very few of us really know how to correctly purchase light bulbs. I have a small obsession with having the correct lighting in every space and truly believe lighting can change the way your paint reads, the way your floor looks and the overall aesthetic of your space. Go ahead and ask any client I have ever worked with. They will tell you about my true passion to ensure their space is lit correctly…I just can’t believe I haven’t written about this before, but there’s no better time than now. Let’s get your home feeling all the right feels with the correct color and brightness in each bulb in your home. I’m here to share the secrets to the perfect light bulbs!
Now to introduce you to your two new best friends when shopping for light bulbs. Lumens and Kelvins. Go ahead, say hello and let me do you the favor and formally introduce you to each of them.
Lumens – LM
Lumens measure the amount of light you get from each bulb. Gone are the days we are looking for the watts we need on a bulb. We want to look for how many lumens each bulb creates. Watts tell us how much energy the light bulb gives off, and with all light bulbs being energy efficient now the wattage does not affect the outcome. We want to know how much light the light bulb will give off and that is determined by the amount of lumens.
Pro Tips for Lumens
Recessed lighting and lamps with shades: 750-800 lumens is a good place to start.
Globe lighting or exposed bulbs: 250-180 lumens, this way the amount of light is not overwhelming your eyes.
Work Space needing more light: 1100-1600 lumens which will help spread the light out over the room, keeping it bright enough for the work space.
We broke down your old thinking into your new thinking to help wrap your head around this new concept. But once you understand that the higher the lumen number is the more light the light bulb will put out you really don’t have any need for this graphic. It can just become a frame of reference until you wrap your head around it! Trust me, I know it’s going to take some getting used to!
Kelvins – K
Kelvins measure the color of the light you get from each bulb. Every light bulb produces a different color. This is why some light bulbs make your space feel warmer while other light bulbs make the space feel color. Or why you might notice in a light fixture if one bulb looks different from the next in color. Chances are the kelvins are different.
Pro Tip
Recessed lighting and ceiling lights: 3000k is our starting point. We don’t like to go higher than 4100k.
Lamps and wall sconces: 2700k as anything under that starts to feel too yellow.
Now seems like the best time to talk about styling your home with things you already have, seeing how we’re all spending more time at home then we ever planned to. Let’s find ways to love where we live a little bit more each day. What better place to start a refresh then the heart of your home. To get you started here’s our quick weekend (or midweek, now) update for your kitchen! From there let’s talk about my tips on how to style a kitchen with what you already have.
Dinnerware
I love to layer in dishes that I love. They work well on shelves or in corners on your counter. If you are working with open shelving start with the dinnerware that you use all the time. You want your open shelving to have items that rotate in and out of it to prevent dust from gathering. Work in odd numbers when building stacks. I always find this is an easy way to make your collection feel purposeful.
Glassware
Layering glassware into shelves and on the counter especially if using glass is a great way to add texture and a light reflecting element to the space. I love keeping glassware together in sets to make a small collection for your eye to rest or using one piece at a time on the counter to create a set of 3 collections.
Cutting Boards
These just might be my favorite things to layer into any kitchen space. The added wood texture brings so much natural warmth to any counter space. It is the perfect backdrop to create a vignette in front of.
Servingware
Use your big bowls to display fruit inside for color or take up space on the shelf. Any size shape and color serving bowl help add dimension to your kitchen styling. I love stacking books and adding serving pieces on top of them to provide extra height!
Table Linens
Your table linens are another great way to add not only color but texture into your space. Add them inside bowls or draped around a vignette like a blanket, keeping everything nice and cozy. I hang mine on the dishwasher so we always have something to dry our hands on!
Plants
You guys plants make everyone happy. Add some plants into the heart of your home. We’ve got a full list of easy to maintain kitchen plants for you. Or you can always add some really nice faux greenery to any space.
Cookbooks
Cookbooks are the perfect way to bring height and color into a kitchen space. I love using vintage cookbooks for looks and some of my everyday favorites for easy access!
Plants make such a major impact on your space. Not only do they add a beautiful natural touch to any design they bring real life into your home. For years I designed with faux plants purely because I couldn’t keep an indoor plant alive for the life of me. Lucky for me Emilie, our Creative Director over here at C+A, is a plant lady and has provided us with some solid advice and insight for indoor plants. We are excited to break these down room by room starting with the heart of any home, your kitchen. So without further adieu we present to you kitchen plants even you won’t kill!
Start Small
When it comes to growing plants inside your home starting small is key. You don’t create a jungle right off the bat. One plant in each category is the perfect way to learn. You can learn about each type of plant and grow from there!
Light
Turns out all plants need light you guys. They cannot grow without it. What varies from plant to plant is the amount of light in which it needs to survive. It’s really important for you to observe natural light in the space you are going to keep your plants in, and from there you can select plants that will thrive in your home.
Water
You’ve probably already guessed it but it is true that all plants need water to survive too! Same rings true here as with light. The amount of water a plant needs is all based on the type of plant, room environment and how the plant intakes its water. Some things to consider: Do you live in a humid home or dry home? Is your plant placed near a heat vent?
Placement
When it comes to placing your plants around your house you really can’t go wrong. Plants can move around. Floor plants typically stay on the floor as they are large and heavy. While hanging plants and counter plants can also work on shelving.
