Becolorful

Motivated Monday April 22nd and April 29th

 

 

Monday, April 22nd

Happy 50th B day to my brother.

Too bad he isn't on Facebook or I would ask you all to send him a message.

:D

I digress. Welcome to Motivated Monday.

I will not be able to post next Monday because we will be watching our son get married.

As a result, blogging is going to have to take a back seat for the next two weeks.

I know you will understand.

You will be able to link up to this post through May 7th.

 

Wow, what a week this past one was! So many great ideas that it was hard to narrow them down to just a few to feature but whittle it down I did.

I do apologize for not taking the time to comment this week. It was one of those crazy busy ones here. I did stop by each blog though. There were a number of new bloggers linking up and that is always fun to see. I hope you will take time to look back on some of the links from last week to see what you might have missed.

Some posts did not get very many views. I might suggest giving a specific name to your link so people know what you are showing them. Every one of you had something wonderfully creative or informative to offer. Some even shared what not to do like Jessica's black tea tanning spray. We like knowing what doesn't work too. As you say, "Time is valuable" 

So, here are a few of the highlights from last week.

Made In A Day

shared a tutorial on how to make this stunning Spring wreath.

 

 

The Thrifty Rebel

 

gave us  step by step directions and code on adding galleries to our blogs. Very cool.

She also showcased her bold and Bee-U-tee-ful painted dresser

here

Stop by to see the full piece.

I went gaga for this lighted outdoor cocktail table 

from

Joys Jots Shots

 

So pretty at night.

Finally,

Pink Recipe Box

posted five of the top healtier choice dessert cookbooks.

I was all over that.

:D

 

 

Motivated Monday April 15th

 

Mondays are synonymous with a fresh start and this Monday is no exception.

I've been waiting for Monday the fifteenth because that is when my painter is coming. Did I mention we are painting our dining room black?

So today it looks like this.

 

Tomorrow, I'm envisioning sophisticated soft black. 

Hope it looks as good in reality as it does in my head.

 

In the meantime, I have been inspired by you. I learn so many things from reading your blogs. 

Small Fine Print

introduced me to a new product I had never heard of.

Faux stainless vinyl film. Are you familiar with it?

Well here are a couple of images of how she used it in her kitchen.

 

Be sure and stop by her blog to find out how to win your own in her give-a-way.

 

Then, I was reminded by

how much I like simple clean lines and light and airy rooms.

by

Meeha Meeha

 

For some helpful hints on how to achieve a similar feel in your home be sure and stop by and visit her blog also.

 

 

The Bounty Earth

shared these egg carton Spring flower creations.

So fun and with a great tutorial.

 

 

 

Is it wrong that I thought they were also pretty dressed in their all white primer?

Kind of a modern take.

 

This Italian fish soup posted by

My Kochlust

 

had me adding to my weekly shopping list.

The blog is in German so you will need to hit the translate button.

 

 

Finally, I loved this from

 

One Organic Mama

 

 

 

I don't have anybody in diapers anymore. We are either too old or too young - depending on how you want to look at it. LOL.  I used both disposable and cloth diapers  when our kids were little but the cloth diapers I used weren't nearly as fun and stylish as what I see out there today. For all you moms or friends of moms or moms of moms,  this is a simple idea on how to keep stains out of those expensive designer nappies. No easy feat.

:D

 

 

Motivated Monday April 8th

How cute are those twirling girls in their up and down hemline skirts?

I remember loving a skirt that allowed me to do this this. Who are we kidding? We still do it right?

These skirts were designed by

 

Domestic Bliss Squared
 

For a complete tutorial be sure and stop by her blog.

 

There were so many great links here last week on Motivated Monday and it is always hard to choose which posts should be featured but here are a few more from last week that I thought should be highlighted.

I chose this recipe for

 

Cinnamon-Chai Mini-Donuts (Grain-Free)

 from

Auld Grey Mare
 

because it seems that we hear of more and more of us becoming gluten intolerant. I would imagine that for those people that so many typical desserts are out of the question but this donut recipe could definitely be a tempting treat.


 

Then there was this lady bug themed party 

via

Queen B Creative Me

Her polka dot cake balls are just too cute and not to be missed.

 

All you young moms make me realize how simple my life is now but I remember doing projects similar to these and loving it. Where did we find the time?

I must have slowed down or I don't multi task as well as I used to.

:D

Well, here is another mom project.

Emily, over at

My Love For Words
 

shared her memory game creation. Yes, she made her own using a Silhouette.

Isn't it kind of incredible? Lots of detail work here.

That had to take some time but it will probably get passed down to her grand-kids someday.


Finally, Ana from

Scrappy Pink Corner

shared with us how she corrals all of her punches. Using an old frame, embossed tin, and some curtain rods, she was able to create this useful and attractive storage solution.

Very nice.

 

Motivated Monday April 1

I hope you all had a wonderfully happy Easter.

Ours was rather quiet this year. A couple of us were under the weather but we were still able to get down to the Ox Yoke Inn in the Amana Colonies with Mom for Easter dinner. 

If you are ever passing through Iowa (because that's what people do - drive through) you need to put this restaurant on your bucket list.

It was recently featured on The Travel Channel

Is this Heaven? No, it's Iowa!

It helps when you know the owners and they make you feel special.

:D

 

Even though Easter is in the rear view mirror now. There were several Easter themed posts from last week that I felt were special enough to still be shared. 

When you think about it, Easter will roll around again so you may just want to PIN a few of these for next year.

For starters there was this oh-so-cool LIfe Of Jesus bracelet that is very timely this week but could be worn any time.

 

Evelyn, from My Turn For Us, not only shares the poetic story that each bead represents but also gives us a list of supplies we will need and a tutorial so we can make one of our own.

 

 

Thanks so much Evelyn for this beautiful reminder of what Easter is really all about.

 

 

Then there was this delightful post from

Pink Recipe Box

 

that featured the fun side of Easter with some whimsical and unusual items for your Easter celebration and where to find them. Things that will leave everyone thinking you are the most amazing hostess/party planner ever. 

:D

Like these rabbit ear salad servers

and these delightfully festive dessert plates.

 

 

How fun!

Not everything was Easter though.

There was this very noteworthy guestroom/girl escape shared by

Live Pretty On A Penny

 

You will want to stop by her blog to study all the organizational ideas she has going on here.


 

 

There was also this great how-to post from

The Thrifty Rebel

She shows us a three step paint technique that she used to create her

French Caribbean Mirror Makeover.

I love how layering those colors gives the shades such depth and a lively color dimension.

Finally, there was a card making tutorial from

 

Paper Seedlings

 

For all of you card creators, or want to be card creators out there, this is the blog for you. Each week she features a timely creation complete with a list of everything you will need to make one of your own.

 

Motivated Monday March 18th

 

Talk about a diversity of ideas!

Wow this week there is everything from make your own supplement capsules to recreating your own polka dot skinny jeans.

:D

I love love love how inspiring you all are.

I'm Motivated!

Check it out...

There was a chevron rug from

Smart Girl Style

I know there have been a number of these on Pinterest but here is another one and her easy to follow tutorial, I thought, needed to be shared for those of us who might be a bit math challenged and haven't tried this yet.

:D

Then there was this amazeballs handpainted trunk 

via

Decorative Paintbrush
 

I subscribe to Mary's blog and when I saw this this week I begged her to link up so I could feature it.

Be sure and visit her to see more images and all the incredible detail work on this piece.
Thanks Mary.

Barbara, from 

21 Rosemary Lane,

always has some great design ideas. This time she is showcasing her mantel and she

reminded us of how some decor projects evolve over time. This one took the better part of a decade to get to where she is now.

Doesn't this look invitingly homey?

 

Domestic Bliss Squared

 

dazzled us with her refashioned boot cut jeans. She recreated them into a skinny version and then added the polka dots!

 

Too fun.

 

I am a big proponent of supplements but they can get a bit pricey. So I was kind of amazed to read

Crystelle Boutique's

post on 

How to make your own capsules.

She talks about several different herbs and their health benefits - which I found very interesting and bookmarked it for future reference.

Then she shares with us her method for making her own herbal capsules and how we can easily do it too.

Thanks Crystelle.

 

Finally, there was this tasty looking temptation from

I Knead To Bake

 

This healthy change up 

had me adding some of her ingredients to my shopping list so I can try this later this week.

Motivated Monday March 11th

Furniture, decor, and more. Oh my.

:D

If it appears that I select projects that reflect my interests - like painted furniture and remodeling projects then yes, I am guilty as charged.

But really? Check out these furniture change ups. They are all so stunning and in such different styles and created with such varying techniques. There is something for everybody and every skill level.  

First up is this sophisticated mid-century number from

 

    Martha Leone Design

 

It was yellow and it was striking but look at it now. Jaw dropping. Stop by her blog to read about what started as an oops ultimately became a good thing.

 

Another furniture idea was this wallpapered chest via

 

Shabby Gals

I flipped for that paper and true, this could be incredibly hard to find but still, it was pure design genius to incorporate it into this furniture piece. Gorgeous.

 

We've all seen these old file cabinets out there and maybe even have one of our own sitting around. I have seen some clever upgrades for these metal monsters but I thought this one from

 

Domestic Imperfections

that took a five dollar investment from boring and utilitarian to colorfully chic deserved a shout out.

 

Can I tell you a secret? She did it with cut up scrapbook paper. Love it and I love that yellow.

 

But it wasn't all about furniture restoration. There were remodeling and design projects too. Again, I have to say, I was probably drawn to this bedroom update because we are getting ready to redo our master suite too. Can you blame me for being inspired by the sophisticated simplicity of this Benjamin Moore Stormy Monday room? I think not. Especially with those pops of tangerine. Perfection.

 

Turtles and Tails

 

After all that painting and designing I wouldn't have time for complicated recipes.

:D 

So this three minute, three ingredient wonder from

 

Artsy Fartsy Mama

definitely spoke to me.

That and the fact that I was having a chocolate craving.

Finally, I am also inspired by clever and thoughtful gift giving ideas and this one 

via

Like A Saturday
 

would be perfect for a new neighbor or someone moving into a new home or apartment. Everything in her gift bag was so useful but not so personal or taste specific that it becomes a burden for the recipient. We have all received our share of those kinds of gifts. Just saying.

:D

So this week it was furniture and design. Next week? Who knows.

You never cease to amaze.

Motivated Monday March 4th

 

Get ready for another week of inspiration.

It's Motivated Monday here at BeColorful.

I'm so glad I chose to keep this linky event open to all kinds of motivating ideas because the variety of projects are what keep this party fresh.

So what motivated me this week that you should be sure not to miss?

Well, for starters there was this fun Scandinavian influenced clock from 

The Colorful Bee

 

 

That red is so unexpected and such a perfect touch for this look.

 

Shabby Gals

 

also linked up a "Pin-worthy" photo of her timely table.

 

 I'm on the look out for a round top table so I can emulate this look.

 

 

For something totally new, this idea and free download from

 

WhimsiKel

 

for a One Line A Day Journal

is so uber cool.

What a captivating and unique way to keep track of our personal thoughts, dreams, disappointments, or feelings.  It would be such fun to look back on what we had to say several years from now.

 

 Thank you so much Ms. Kelli

 

When it came to artwork the self-portraits that were shared by

Shabby Gipsy

 had me ohhhing with awe.

She shared a glimpse of her studio too. I would love to see more.

:D

 

Looking for something super easy to cook tonight? There were some great recipe posts shared here too.

Be sure and check out this Ranchy Chicken or as she really likes to call it

"Raunchy Chicken"

:D

 This is a crock pot meal with just a few usually on hand ingredients. Gotta love that.

via

Frugal In Florida

 

 

Another tempting treat that is definitely NOT on my diet but looked so delish that I just had to share. Besides, every once in a while a girl has  to splurge and what better thing to splurge on than Macaroni and Cheese?

This ultimate recipe from

One Organic Mama

 is on my to do list. I'll just have to add some time to my work out.

 

 

If you are looking for a simple room update or window treatment

you will want to stop by

Accidentally Wonderful

this week where Rebekah shows us how to create an easy no-sew valance. 

I love the colors she chose for the nursery.

So fun.

 

 

 

Motivated Monday February 25th

 

 

I'm in a decorating state of mind this month and you sweet followers of BeColorful's Motivated Monday didn't let me down with your motivating design links this week.

It started with this image that was shared by

21 Rosemary Lane

She is looking to redo her master bedroom and so am I. I have been thinking, gray, taupe, or white but then she inspired me with her green and white leanings. It is definitely food for thought and something I am adding to my option bag.

 

And who couldn't use a bit more storage space in their kitchen? 

This added shelving solution via

Domestic Imperfections

kind of stole my heart. She reveals her kitchen makeover in this post. You won't want to miss it.

 

When it came to furniture change ups these one from Simple Home.Life  had me oohing and aweing.

 

 

It is often said the necessity is the mother of invention and I think this could be the case for a dresser turned TV cabinet conversion.

For all of the "how-to's" of this stellar project you can stop by

Inspiration Cafe 

 

Changing it up a bit, how about this clever idea from

Creative Khadjida

 

After falling out of love with an old jacket she removed the buttons and converted them into earrings.

So resourseful.

:D

 

This one is for all of the bloggers out here who are trying to figure out how to add the Pin It button to their post images.

I haven't tried this yet because I am on using Typepad which seems to always be the last one to get on board with anything new. Argh!!!!

But for the rest of you this post from

Stardust-Decor Style

has a very helpful tutorial. 

Motivated Monday February 18th

 

This has to be one of the best weeks ever for inspiration here on Motivated Monday.

There was every kind of creativity from cooking and painting to blogging organization and purse fixes.

I can't wait to share with you some of the highlights from last week's event. 

For starters, and this is really for other bloggers, you will not want to miss this 

Ultimate Blog Planner

via

Let's Get Crafty

 

Available in a hard copy or digital download version through her Etsy store this is the ultimate organizer for a blogger. With weekly and monthly page spreads and inspirational and humorous graphic art inserted to keep us motivated, you will want to check this link out for sure.

 

 

 

 Follow that up with this stylish Ikea Hemmes dresser upgrade via

Smart Girl Designs

 

Smart indeed. What I enjoyed about this post, other than the end result, was that Brittney shares with us some valuable painting tips including what works and what doesn't. I will be pinning this post for future reference.

 

Another Ikea hack idea was shared by

If It's Not Baroque...

Her kitchen makeover is a black and white chevron lover's delight.

She started with this -

With new flooring, paint, and counter-tops this was a total transformation.

 

She incorporated a pair of Ikea Billy bookcases, dressed them up chevron style, and now they function as pantry storage.

 

My favorite inspiration that I will take away from her post though, was her idea of painting the inside of her cupboard doors with chalkboard paint.  

How fun is that? Oh yeah. I might use this for my shopping list and calendar too.

 

 It has been awhile since anybody has linked up their wall art and I am always a fan of this canvas art. So I was so thrilled when I discovered this mixed media project shared by

Crystelle Boutique

 

 

She wanted to create a Valentine gift that represented her own home and family life and by adding flash cards, game pieces, sheet music and scrapbook paper she hit this one out of the park.

Nicely done.

 

Shifting gears, I am always on the hunt for healthy but new salad recipes. I would guess I'm not alone in that catagory. So I figured you wouldn't want to miss this Chickpea Salad With Lime Dressing via

Creative Southern Home

I might tweak mine a bit by replacing the onion with a bit of vinegar for flavor but I love the idea of garbanzo beans and cilantro.

 

This fix for a slouchy purse, we've all seen them and maybe even had one, came in from

Made In A Day

 

Doesn't that look better?

 

Crafty Journal

shared these lollipop flowers for a Valentine treat but they would also be fun for Easter, May Day, or even kid's birthday parties.

 

A few inexpensive supplies but the end result packs some real wow factor.

 

Finally, Inspired By Felicity had BeColorful inspired with her post on painted floors. 

After reading it I found myself wondering where I could do something like this.

or this?

 

To see more floor paint designs stop by and visit her here.

 

Motivated Monday February 4th

 

Mondays at BeColorful are a time to be motivated.

Thanks to everyone who participated or logged in to see what was happening here last week. If you missed it these are some of the highlights.

With the big game tonight you may not have time to make these unless you have everything on hand, but this Yogurt and Turmeric Chicken from

Treat and Trick

sure would be a healthy option instead of those fried chicken wings we usually have.

Then again, I think it could be the answer for a lot of week night dinners too.

I had to look up and see what garam masala was (I don't cook that much) but it is a spice (I learned something else) and other than that one element most of the ingredients are pretty basic.

Enjoy!

 

Still wondering about how or what to use to flash some holiday heart style around the house? How about this DIY Valentine mobile

via

Girl in the Garage

So pretty isn't it? She offers a great tutorial so we can all make one of our own.

:D

 

I have a bit of a girl crush on

Happiest Mom on the Blog

Where was she when my kids were little and all I ever did was wipe up puddles of melted snow from the mountain of mittens, boots, and snow suits that littered our back entry?

Yes, I get the whole teach your kids to build a snowman thing but let me tell you from experience, once is enough. The whole concept is grossly overrated.

:D

I like HMOB's idea of a felt snowman that your kids can build INSIDE!

 

True, you will have to find another way to fill up all that time it took to find both mittens, a pair of dry snow pants and then dress your kids, only to undress them again for that ten minute outdoor adventure but I am sure you will come up with something.

:D

 

Then there were the painted furniture projects - because this is what I also do I am always intrigued and inspired by what other bloggers are painting and this week was not exception.

This farm fresh dining table and chairs from

Art Is Beauty

in red is such a great classic and happy look.

She won't have any trouble selling that.

 

 Then I oohed out loud when I saw this one-of-a-kind upstyled dresser via

Generation to Generation

 

Color me inspired.

 

And speaking of color, I am becoming infatuated with dark blue. My daughter was my first inspiration for this shade that has seldom been in my "go to" color box. Then,

Pike's Place

really tweaked my interest when she paired it up with natural woodwork.

I never thought these colors would team up this well but the proof is in the results.

I think the white appliances and counter-tops keep it from looking too dark and I am a converted navy fan now.

 

Sometimes I think I may stop Motivated Monday for awhile but then I see things like this link from

Smart Girl Style

and I wonder why I would ever stop all this inspiration from coming my way. 

She took a regular Ikea lack table and in her post shows us how to upholster it!!!

Seriously, I never would have thought of this but what a great custom look for very little money.

So cool.

 

Motivated Monday January 28th

 

Mondays at BeColorful are a time to be motivated.

Thanks to everyone who participated or logged in to see what was happening here last week. If you missed it these are some of the highlights.

There was this simple and easy to create canvas with a lot of wow factor from

Sew Fantasic

 

A. Steed's Life

Shared with us how a fresh coat of paint and moving some things around the house gave her entry a whole new look.

 

Wondering what's for dinner tonight?

How about this

Skinny Beef Wrap With Lime Yogurt Sauce

from

Pink Recipe Box

 

or if it is cold and damp like it is here then this

Easy Black Bean Soup

via

Made In A Day

may be just the ticket.

Her idea to blend the beans in a blender first to get a better consistency makes a lot of sense. Trust me, this recipe looks incredibly easy. I love black beans so I am all over giving this a try.

 

{Like A Saturday}

Reminds us of how a simple yard of fabric can update a chair. She has a whole list of projects on her "to do" list this year. I'm excited to see what else she comes up with.

Goldsmith

has participated numerous times here on Motivated Monday and her designs, which she sells, are always so unique and intriguing. She really has that design eye.

This week she featured this eye-catching one-of-a-kind wristwatch.

It truly is a piece of art for your arm.

 

Finally, there was this over-the-top TRUCK THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTY shared by

Vixen Made

This mom knows how to throw a party and needs to write a book. I couldn't choose just one photo because she had SO MANY great ideas for this shindig. These were three of my faves but be sure and stop by to see all the creativity this woman possesses.

If you look closely at the photo below you will notice that the table is a sheet of plywood topping stacks of tires. Love the metal back drop for that rugged look and the chevron decorated cake to resemble tire tracks.

:D

 

 

I think I'm glad I don't have a little one going to this party. How could I ever follow this? Actually I would love to go to one of her grown up parties though!!!

 

 

Motivated Monday January 7

 

Yes, I am finally back.

I often joke with other bloggers that I plan my life around my blog but sometimes, like these past two weeks, I check myself and my priorities and remember what is really important. For me, it was all about family. For those of you that don't know, our son has been working and studying in Japan for the last two years. He left for Tokyo right before the earthquake and tsunami. No, we haven't seen him since then and that has been way too long. So when he walked through the door on Christmas Eve the happy tears flowed and everything else came to a halt. 

The surprise of having our son home for Christmas, learning that our family would be growing with the addition of a new and delightful daughter-in-law and finally having all of our kids together was the best gift a mom could ask for.

It has been a terrific two weeks.

There was time at home and with family.

I even found time to apply for a passport since we will be going to Korea this year for a wedding. It only took me four trips to the post office but I think I am golden now.

:D 

We stayed busy the whole time James and Sumi were here.

From quaint Main Street in Galena to Michigan Avenue in Chicago

and a first time stop at Millenium Park, the past two weeks just flew by.

Sadly, all too soon, it was time for the goodbyes. I hate that part but at least this time we won't be apart for so long.

Life is good and I know I am oh so lucky. Not many wives have a hubs like mine that would plan and scheme to make it all happen and never once let on to anyone what he was up to. Thank you babe for that. You are my Clark Griswold, the man that sets his expectations unrealistically high but sometimes life is magical and this was one of those times. Yes, "You did it" :D

Thanks to you, the readers, for sticking with me during my blogging hiatus. The great part is that after taking this break and spending time with my daughter and fellow blogger I have some renewed energy and fresh inspiration for the coming year. I look forward to sharing some new organizational ideas, painting projects, decor inspiration and hopefully some progress on our many projects. Now, though, it is time to move on and get this party started!

It's Motivated Monday and the first linky party of 2013. So what have you been up to? I can't wait to be inspired.

Motivated Monday December 17th

 

 

Welcome to this week's Motivated Monday at BeColorful. I'm so glad you are here.

I apologize for my tardiness so in the interest of economical use of everyone's time I will kept my commentary here to a minimum. I actually considered taking a hiatus this week but when I saw some of the AMAZING ideas that had been linked up I just HAD to share.

I know you will all be inspired too when you see a few of the highlights from last week's Motivated Monday like this artsy Liechtenstein themed end table that was created using a projector and a bit of paint.

Thrift Store Decor

 

 

 

MacGirlver

shared this wonderfully resourceful idea for her kitchen island using a re-purposed desk.

 
Goldschmiede Plaar in Osnabruck

linked up her inspired flatware earrings.

 

 

Then there were the Christmas decor posts like this front door flair and tutorial from

House to Your Home

 

and this dash of the holidays in the often over-looked master bedroom via

The Ivy Cottage Blog

 

Last but not least, was this simple tinsel garland Christmas tree and tutorial. An easy last minute project that would make a great centerpiece from

Decorating Cents

 

 

There have been numerous links of some really great and uniquely original Christmas tree ideas and links that I have been saving for tomorrow's post. Many of them are from you, the Motivated Monday participants. It may be a bit late for most of us to think about adding yet another tree but I promise you will be adding some of these upcoming clever creations to your Pinterest boards. 

:D

 

Motivated Monday December 10th

 

Ahhh December. A wonderfully crazy time of year. It was a great but busy week here. Unfortunately it was a bit too busy for me to comment on all of your post links but I so apprereciate them and did visit each one. Your ideas and projects are always so amazing. These, though, were a few that I thought should be shared.

I know you will be as inspired as I was.

MacGirlVer

and her silver wallpapered chest of drawers,

 

an upcycled tie skirt and tutorial over at

Crystelle Boutique,

some great Christmas decor at

The Ivy Cottage.

Love it all but especially that tree piece above the mantel.

 

 

A Christmas cocktail was posted by

Pink Recipe Box 

for a Cranberry Basil Mojito

 

Doesn't this just looks so festive for this time of year?

 

A short post I know. Forgive me. This Santa is feeling a bit behind.

As usual, thanks to everyone who linked up last week and I hope you will consider doing so again.

Motivated Monday November 26th

... and a special announcement.

I hope you had a terrific Thanksgiving with people that you love.

I know I did. 

Actually this was a rather busy week for me.

I don't often go with my hubs for business but this past week I did and we had such a great time.

 

 

We were able to spend the evenings together and during the day I did a bit of shopping. 

It doesn't get much better than that.

 

:D

 

Then two of our three kiddos were here for Thanksgiving. Our third is STILL in Japan. I think it is time that one comes home! The kids, along with even more family,  all treked down to the Ox Yoke Inn at the Amana Colonies with us this year for an easy holiday meal.

Our family has been enjoying numerous Sunday dinners and birthday celebrations here for generations.

 

 

If you've never been this is Iowa dining at its best.

Traditional German recipes served family style in a historical setting.

It was a wonderful stress free way to spend time together.

Along with hanging with family and trying to get the house all decked out for the holidays, I didn't have much time for blogging or for commenting on all of your inspiring posts. For that I apologize. 

I did, though, want to share with you a couple of the highlights from last week like this

clever idea for corralling headbands from

I Can Find the Time
 

along with this fun wooden Christmas tree

via

 

Signs by Andrea

 

and this amazeballs DIY chandelier tutorial 

from

 

Smart Girl Style

 

Smart indeed!

 

I hope to be more productive myself this week which brings me to my next topic...

HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS

I will be hosting a special linky series here on BeColorful this next three weeks that I am calling HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS.

These linky events will be on the next three Tuesdays and Fridays.

I am hoping you will join me by linking up your own Holiday home decor.

The scedule is as follows:

Tuesday November 27th - Front Doors and/or Foyers

Friday November 30th - Living or Family Rooms

Tuesday December 4th - Dining Rooms

Friday December 7th - Kitchens

Tuesday December 11th - offices/craftrooms

Friday December - trees and gift wrapping ideas

I hope you will be joining in.

Pass the word if you would.

The more the merrier.

 

But for now we will focus on this week's Motivated Monday.

Motivated Monday November 19th

Thank you for stopping by this week's Motivated Monday here at BeColorful

These are some of the highlights from last week's Linky Party.

First up is this outstanding winter themed mantel

via

Life On Walnut Street

 

 

Using something out of the ordinary for your mantel is such a great way to make that wow statement that will definitely get noticed. Repeating it by using three of the same thing takes it to a whole new level.

Love it.

 

Flower Child Designs

has been busy too. This over sized damask pattern on her stained top table also has that dramatic, take note flair.

Every room should have one piece that is a stand out. She sure has one here.

 

 

Elf On A Shelf is, as you know, is the latest Christmas rage for the under ten demographic ( and their parents too)

In fact, I'm not sure who has more fun with this little guy - the kids or the grown ups.

Happiest Mom On the Blog

shared with us some of her favorite memories of some of their elf's mischieviousness.

If you have little ones or grand children then this is a post you won't want to miss.

Among other elf escapades, I especially liked this one where he dyed the milk green.

:D

 Looking for something new in the way of a wreath?

Then be sure and check out this wreath made of scarves over at

The Thrifty Rebel

That textured element really makes it unique.

Another idea for the holidays was shared by

A

 Geek In Glasses

Her post shares with us this oh-so-clever idea of transferring a coloring book drawing using transfer paper and an iron onto a plain white tee shirt. Using the washable markers to color in the design the kids can color it, wear it, wash it and repeat.

What a great gift idea!

 

Another great gift idea, or something you could make for your own home is this birch bark painted vase

via

Turtles and Tails

 

 Isn't that pretty? and so simple to do too.

I could see this all year round. It is lovely and sophisticated even empty but it would be so striking filled with fall leaves, winter branches, or spring blossoms. Stop by her blog for all of the how-to info.

 

 

Motivated Monday November 12

It was a blogging fail week for me. Not one post since last Motivated Monday but I promise that this week will be different.

Stay tuned in the next few days for an update to our library,

A new Color of the Week post,

and ideas for decorating your entry for the Holidays.

So I hope you will not give up on me but stop by again during this coming week.

You, though, never disappoint and I was enthralled with all of your creativity inciting posts. These tasty temptations are a perfect examples of some of your motivating moments. First up is this pasta and eggplant wonder from

 

Meine Kochlust

Can you believe I've never made anything with eggplant. Time for that to change.

Yet another great healthy option was this "JUST VEGGIES" salad

via

Frugal in Florida

I'm always looking for healthy menu ideas and doesn't that look delish?

 

It was a week for paper creations too.

I've never tried paper quilling but

 

 Creative Khadija

and her post about this tool free version and a complete tutorial have me wanting to try making a card or small project using this technique.

 

I also loved these "Easy Money" origami stars that were shared by 

Make It Easy Crafts

 I agree that they would make such unique gifts or tree ornaments

 

If you are a follower here on BeColorful then you know I am a huge fan of all the painted or updated furniture projects and there were a number of great furniture posts  this week including this stylish blue beauty

via

Three Mango Seeds

I'm thinking I would really like to recreate my own version of this design in the near future. Love her blue but I may go with red.

Then there was also this delightful sewing cabinet shared by Betsy Speert. 

I thought that incorporating a tape measure design onto the top of the piece was smart and inspiring.

It was impressive to see how some paint and a few simple switch ups brought such style and freshness to a master bedroom makeover 

by

The Home Organization

 

 

Finally, I can hardly believe that Thanksgiving is right around the corner but you still have time to add some festive and "Thankful" flair to your home before then and

Between U and Me

has twelve great crafty concepts that you could still squeeze in before November 22nd. This tablecloth idea is the one that really caught my eye.

 

 

 

Motivated Monday November 5th

 Welcome to the first Motivated Monday of November. I'm so glad to have you here.

There were several furniture updates this week and you know I love those furniture redo's.

For starters there was this

 two for one inspiration over at 

Big Family/Small Apartment

 

She updated two tables - both with a saucy shade of a grassy green. Then to complete the sofa table she replaced the glass inset with a square featuring chalkboard paint to make this a truly "note worthy" conversation piece.

I also have to give major kudos to Betsy Speert over on

Betsy Speert's Blog

for her total make over of this chair.

Can you imagine? I would have walked right by it shaking my head and probably uttering "ewww" but not Betsy. She took that discarded shambles of a chair and recreated something beautiful.

Here is a teaser photo.

To see the full chair and a really wonderful step by step tutorial you will have to stop by and see it here.

As amazing as that chair is, I would probably be more likely to first try and tackle a chair project  like this one from 

Shabby Gals

 

 

This I am pretty sure I could come close to recreating without any major mishaps. :D Love those colors and the print they chose.

Moving on to organization, I twas totally on board with 

Let's Get Crafty

and her obsession with a clean and organized refrigerator.

It is a bit wack how giddy an orderly frig can make me feel too. So when I read about her refrigerator shelf "coasters" made from Target placemats I knew it wouldn't be long before I would be trying my hand at emulating her craftiness.

 

Serious frig envy going on here. The beauty is when you spill something or that part of the shelf gets sticky, all you need to do is remove and wipe off the placemat instead of the entire shelf. Simply brilliant. :D

 

 

Finally, with Halloween behind us, we all start thinking ahead toward December and all that daunting gift giving. So I thought this Hot Water Bottle idea from

Being Inspired 

was a clever, easy, and affordable idea for those of you that have a bit of time and some basic sewing skills.

Practical yet fun.

Gotta love that.

 

 

 

Motivated Monday October 29th

Wow, it was quite a week over here on BeColorful's Motivated Monday.

There were over ninety links to last week's party.

Thank you to all of you. I remember  back in the day when there were less than twenty links. Your inspirational ideas are making this a bigger and better event with every passing week.

:D

It was a busy week for me too. We were in Galena last weekend with some of the kids. The guys golfed and Liz and I took photos. It was beautiful weather and I can't tell you how much fun I had.

 

It was great just taking pics of her taking pictures.

Later in the week the hubs and I went to a Romney rally. I hope if your leanings run left you will still continue to hang around.

:D

I finally completed my black and white cabinet

and helped a relative pick out some awesome living room furniture.

 

But I wasn't any busier than any of you. You all amazed me with what you shared here this week on BeColorful.

First up was this

elegant Halloween dinner party over at

Ciao Newport Beach.

Who knew you could be so fancy and spooky at the same time?

I love those photo place cards on the center of each plate and that the whole party was done in black and white.

Color me inspired.

 

Next up I was infatuated with this last minute and creative Halloween idea via

21 Rosemary Lane

I featured another edible witches broom last week but thought this one was worthy of notice too.

How about this clever and unusual but easy to make Halloween goodie for some of your favorite trick-or-treaters from

The Moody Fashionista

  

A little printing on the computer and some boxes of breath mints and you have yourself a clever Halloween treat.

In the home decor category I was smitten with this mirror make-over that

The Thrifty Rebel
 

found at a sale for $2.00! She gave it a new outfit of paint and converted it to a chalkboard for her craft room. You really should stop by to see the befores, afters, and how - to information.

 

When it came to recipes, this is what intrigued me...

An Oriental Cabbage Salad via

High Heels and Grills

 

Healthy, and tempting.

Then I saw this link from

Pink Recipe Box
 

for the perfect baked potato. My first thought was we all know how to do that but her simple helpful hints and terrific images convinced me to share it here with all of you.

 

On the fashion front, I swooned for this post from

A Geek in Glasses
 

with her tutorial on how to make these leather bows.

A couple of weeks ago I saw this incredible bow belt from Burberry. It was fabulous but at $450.00 I was definitely not a player. I never forgot about it though. It was just that cool so I had been thinking about searching out a bow tutorial. Then BAM here it is right here on BeColorful's Motivated Monday.

Thank you Stephanie!

Actually, I am more than a little bit bow crazy right now and apparently I'm not the only one because I also received this submission from

Vixen Made
 

for these totally chic bow embellished fingerless gloves.

This non sewer, me, is actually going to give this a try.

:D

 

I am always a sucker for organizational posts and I thought this one from

Hello Kirsti
 

showcasing fabric scrap organization was a real winner. 

Several of my friends are seamstresses and I know they will appreciate this.

Yes, it was a productive week here on BeColorful's Motivated Monday.

Motivated Monday October 22nd

Thank you for visiting BeColorful's Motivated Monday. I am so happy to have you here.

Motivated Monday is the party to link up your latest inspiring posts whether they be decorating projects, paint projects, furniture updates, jewelry creations, fashion finds, or helpful tips. This is where you get to flaunt yourself and motivate the rest of us!

It was a busy week for me last week and although I stopped by each of your blogs I didn't have time to comment on all of them but you all never cease to amaze me.

So what was motivating last week? There were so many great projects but I thought these posts deserved a second look from all of us.

There were a number of Halloween ideas that could be done even if you are short on time.

Starting off with these fun Creepy Halloween Hand Trick or Treat Bags

via

High Heels and Grills

Those candy corns for fingernails are borderline genius.

:D

Then these Angry Bird pumpkins just made me smile.

Love playing the game and love these quirky designs from

Repeat Crafter Me

If you are looking for a low calorie dessert to offset all those Halloween candy binges you will want to stop by

akawest

 

for this fun treat.

 
Switching gears, there were some incredible painted furniture projects - my favorite.

Love love love this fabulous graphic dresser from

Simple Home Life

I'm also crazy for this spunky desk make over 

 

via

 

The Thrifty Rebel

 

It's pretty amazing what a bit of pretty pink paint and some contact paper can do.

 

This out of the ordinary scrappy wreath was something new and inspiring from

Accidentally Wonderful