Noteworthy

Two “Noteworthy” posts in one month?! You probably know what that means… I took the easy way out this Friday and have been a bad blogger. In reality, between kicking off our kitchen renovation and working on a BIG, exciting passion project with my local Humane Society (that I get to share with you really soon), I basically haven’t even had time to pee. Haha! Regardless, I enjoy putting together these quick little posts, and in the spirit of the weekend- I’m sharing lots of random thoughts, inspiration, and links. Click through to read what is on my mind lately… 

First of all- this Humane Society / dog project I’m all jazzed about… I’m transforming one of their giant spaces for dogs with behavioral needs (aggression, the overly timid, pets with a history of abuse, etc). There are also three employees who work in this particular space and I want to make it a happy place for humans and animals- trust me when I say it is currently not that. Anyway, I’ll be sharing the entire makeover with you guys on here in a couple weeks, so stay tuned.

Speaking of dogs, I went full-on dog training nerd and got this “Leash Boss” treat pouch that hooks to your belt (or pants). I’m fully aware I look ridiculous, but Crosby isn’t going to train himself. We spent so much time training Finn & Cash… poor Cros is super behind and we’re trying to change that. Now that he’s gigantic, he needs to have better manners. That’s on us. Anyway… the other day, I forgot I had the pouch hooked to my yoga pants and walked into the grocery like that (lol).

In regards to the kitchen, out of all of our homes, I’ve never seen Emmett so excited to renovate a room. I have a really good feeling about this one and I can’t wait to enjoy the fruits of our labor this summer and the years to come. Demo is already underway and things are moving right along.  Emmett’s one and only kitchen request was to have soapstone countertops again… obviously I agreed! Does that surprise you? We rarely repeat finishes or materials. That’s just how much we love it. I’m also happy to hear we’re apparently on trend. So funny! I just call that being smart about where to put your dollars (remember this post on resale value?).

On Monday, I’ll be sharing our outdoor spaces as they currently look, and my hopes for them (short term & long term). This amazing weather really has me itching to get things done outside and spend as much time as I can outdoors. Is anyone else in the same mindset? So far, I’ve planted tomatoes, flowers, my succulents, and the front porch urns. I’d say I’m on a roll, given it isn’t even May yet!

I ordered one of these outdoor rugs. They are beautiful and you can’t beat the price… they’re selling out fast though! I’d grab one while they’re available. I wanted a 9×12 and it sold out on me. This is probably the prettiest patio umbrella I’ve ever seen, but I have no place to put it. I also ordered new string lights because we left ours attached to our pergola in our previous backyard. I ordered white this time around since our current pergola is white… these lights have over 500+ five star reviews on Amazon. I haven’t installed them yet, but I’m hoping they don’t disappoint.

Emmett and I had a funny conversation at dinner the other night. First of all, we’re trying to implement one dinner date night per week, where we get out of the house and experience new food together. We were chatting about ways to live a healthier lifestyle and want to try to get back into an exercise routine. We can’t keep making the excuse that renovating is our exercise. Here’s the thing… we both HATE running, but don’t have much time for anything else (outside of dog walking). I’d love your recs for fun workouts that keep you active but don’t feel like “work”. I dread running because it’s so boring to me and my asthmatic self feels like I might die about a minute in. I’d rather join a volleyball league or play a competitive sport, but joining a league seems time consuming. I’m all ears and would love to hear what workouts work for you!

I am very confused about this. I don’t think I would enjoy staying here. Would you? It did give me a chuckle though.

My friend Cathy renovated an entire kitchen in 16 DAYS!!!! I have no idea how. I’m pretty sure she has magic superpowers, because it looks incredible. I scrolled through the post with my jaw on the floor. And to think… I’m over here nervous to make our June / July deadline.

After our recent camping trip, I’ve had lots of people message and ask if I’d be willing to post or roundup my favorite outdoor equipment, tools, and items that make adventuring easier / more enjoyable. The sad & honest truth is this… after moving to Utah, I would post breathtaking scenery from our hikes, adventures, and travels, and immediately lose a significant amount of followers. I totally get it. Most of you are here for the home / interior / DIY posts, but I’d be more than happy to share more personal posts filled with things I’m also passionate about, if anyone would enjoy that…. maybe that just doesn’t happen on the blog? What do you guys think? I want to make everyone happy and that’s a tough thing to balance. #1- would you be interested in “other” topics? #2- where should those said topics live? Instagram? A Pinterest board? PS… if you’re not interested in things outside of design & home improvement, no hard feelings! We only have so much time to spend online and on social media seeking inspiration, learning, and making friends. Like I said, I get it.

This is my current favorite Pinterest board. It’s fun to see what I pin based on the season, month, or whatever house project we have happening at the time. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- Pinterest is my favorite platform. I could spend an entire day on there and not get bored.

I think that’s all I have to talk about for now… back to the “real” blog posts on Monday. Come back to see the outdoor spaces we’ll eventually tackle! Thanks for embracing this extra “Noteworthy” one if you made it all the way to the end. You can bet I’m probably playing with puppies painting at the Humane Society right now. Have an amazing weekend friends!!