peculiar momma

Yesterday I started a new project (because I really need another project. Not.) But I couldn't help myself. My family is on an organization kick. This is a good thing. Our lives have been taken over by clutter. And, quite frankly, clutter negatively affects all of our moods.

So yesterday the boys raked leaves and pine needles (finally!) and I ripped out the carpet in the nook upstairs. This nook is to become my crafting area. And the carpet was, well, disgusting. As in completely gross, unsanitary and sickening.

Only here's the thing. The carpet will not be replaced. We have no budget to redecorate. But never you mind. I have a plan. First I'm going to paint the sub floor. And, of course, the walls. Then, if I can find a brawny assistant or two, my sewing armoire will relocate upstairs. Additionally we have a thrifted yellow formica table gathering dust in the garage. This will be the new crafting table. And, thanks to Tammie, I am also in the process of knitting a rag rug from vintage sheets to add a soft touch (and hopefully couch some of the noise). Finally we need to come up with creative ideas for shelving.

I intended to only tackle the nook but ended up ripping out the carpet all the way down the hall and to the landing. It was disgusting people. Absolutely disgusting. So I will be painting that floor too and may also knit a rag rug runner. I threatened to pull the carpet off the stairs and rag rug the entire thing. However Mr. Peculiar put the kabosh on that. I believe his exact words were, "I don't want a hippie house." Whatever.

What I really want is wood stairs. Real wood. Not the particle board that resides under our carpet. I even brought flooring samples home from the Home Depot. But, again, no budget. So the carpet will remain until I can come up with an inexpensive alternative. Ideas anyone?

All this to share with you my epiphany. Sitting in the stripped nook I realized this house has good bones. It's never too late to strip down and start over. Not only is this is true for a house but it is also true for life. Don't like the direction you're headed? Strip down (figuratively not literally) and start over. All it takes is a vision, diligence and hard work.

Now I'm gearing up to finish my demolition. I've got to pull up the carpet tacks and fill all the cracks with wood filler. Likely I'll take tomorrow off as I have to work. If all goes well a coat of paint on Wednesday.

Hopefully this finished project matches the image in my head. If not I can always try and try again.

Happy Monday all!