Living and Dining

This is my favorite room in the house. In fact, it is what sold it. I am in love with the fireplace and even more in love with lighting it and taking naps by it. Now if I could only figure out how to light it without burning half my hair off in the process.

The pictures aren't from the exact angles but hopefully close enough to get the idea.

Before:

After:

In this room we didn't do much besides stain the floor a dark walnut, add recessed lighting and paint. Next on the list is artwork and new blinds.

Before:

After:

granted these are different corners but same end of room

And I also recognize how this corner desperately needs artwork.

Before:

After:

Before:

After:

I love the idea of having a dining table. Finally we can have people over and they don't have to eat off of their laps. Too bad we never have anyone over.

In the original design of the house, this room was actually the kitchen before the addition. Because we wanted wood floor throughout the main floor we had to add it to this room. We also added the pendant light, painted, and changed the door. The door wasn't my first choice, but we were too late in picking one out for our contrator so he chose this one for us and installed it.

Art at Old Navy

I'm a fan of Charley Harper. I was first introduced to him through my friend Nick, who was smart and bought a few signed prints of his just after he died. His stuff is great, and now is available on little tees, puzzles, and books at Old Navy. I want all of it.

tees:

Peg Puzzle

Memory Game

Board Book

He loves them,

and they aren't made with lights, or shiny plastic.

I'm in love with tin toys, and not so much in love with plastic ones. These are so old and classic, but still hold Luke's attention for longer than any other toy. It may be that they are set up high on a shelf, and only played with when he is closely supervised, but either way, they are great. 

Luke first got hooked on this rocket carousel and the spinning top while playing with Eve and Ruth. He needed his own to play with, so Santa brought them to him for Christmas. But sadly, they sat in boxes until he finally got his own room, which was just a few months ago.  I must admit, I love how they look, but even more, I love hearing Luke call out "Rocket Ship" instead of "Baby Show".

Most of these toys are made by Schylling and can be bought here. The truck was a gift from Eve and Ruth, and the top I bought at a toy store in Brooklyn. My plan is to give one to Luke each year for Christmas, although narrowing them down to just one might difficult.