Sunday, October 23, 2011

Reflection...

Today's post is a little different than what I normally blog about.  As I sat with my morning coffee, looking out into the fog, it occurred to me that my readers might not know that what I do isn't just about design. It's not about paint and accessories.  It's about helping people and putting a different kind of colour in their lives.  Enriching and beautifying from the inside out. 


Having just moved to a new town, one that is known for it's close-knit community feel, has brought more clarity into my own life, and the sense that there is so much I can do to be a part of this in more ways than just making someone's home pretty.  Wanting to contribute in other ways but still doing what I love.  It has never escaped me that I should be and key word-WANT-to be, helping  others and nurturing my spirit.  There was always something missing.  I'm sure a few of you have felt that and know exactly what I'm talking about.  


One of the first things I did when I came here, was look to see how I could be of service to my new community, make some new friends and connections all while making a difference.  It didn't take me long to discover a group that I could join that first and foremost, puts the needs of the community ahead of everything else. Out of this great group of other community members, I found that my skills could be utilized exactly how I visioned and I can't wait to share!  I hope you'll come back to see what we're up to because I know it's going to be amazing!  Feel free to leave a comment below and share what fuels your passion.  Until then, hope you all have a fantastic day and that you find or have found, YOUR inner spirit!  



Friday, October 21, 2011

Pamper Your Pooch!

The dog days really are over!  You love your space to be a welcoming place to come home to, so why not show more love and appreciation by dedicating a space for your furry four legged pal/s to cozy up to on these colder nights ahead?  When I came across the article in the premiere issue of HGTV magazine, on designer Vern Yip's (one of my favourite designers since "Trading Spaces"), "room" for his four, yes FOUR canine family members, I had to share.  He has some great tips and advice on how you can keep the peace (and furniture clean!) in a house filled with pooches.  You can pick up the premiere issue on newsstands now.  Trust me...it's drool-worthy!


  • Make sure each dog has his own bed and even better, get ones that are machine washable.
  • The right flooring is essential.  Nonporous, close-fitting tiles for easy mop ups.  
  • Hang metal hooks for keeping leashes and collars from lying around. You can even hang them above each dog bed and make it personalized!
  • Frame photographs (the playful posing kind...), right above their bed.  You can even get fun toys like aquarium clocks that have real fish in them.  (Might want to place those higher up!).  
  • Keep their chew toys, bones etc., in clear jars that are the same, and line them up on a nearby shelf for easy to reach snacks and fun!
  • Paint the room in a darker neutral in an easy to wipe finish like eggshell or semi-gloss.  

Some Supplies Vern Swears By To Keep The Canines & Owners Content!


Mighty Toy Farm Grady Goat, vipproducts.com (Extra stitching and it squeaks too!)

Alpine lead from timberwolfpetproducts.com (Strong as a climbing rope!)

deshedding tool from furminator.com (Top-of-the-line comb)

Pea-Mutt Butter doughnuts from tajmahound.com (Looks good enough for people to eat!)

Phuket raised feeder with removable dish from unleashedlife.com 

Waves collar from souldier.us (Made from recycled seat belts...awesome!)

Tide Free & Gentle laundry detergent.  Grocery stores nationwide. 
(Wash the little ones clothes with it too!)

Green Tea leaf grooming wipes from earthbath.com (Paws get wiped between baths)

Photo courtesy of jessiefreidin.com.


Friday, October 7, 2011

My One & Only This Thanksgiving!

I am very thankful for so many things in my life this year, one that has been full of constant change and for the better I might add.  


While planning a dinner party this year I came across those wonderful stemless glasses and had an idea!  Why not use only ONE set of glasses for everything I serve, including for the kids? Great for wine, cocktails, mixed drinks and everything in between, I quickly came up with a super neat idea so that the glasses don't get mixed up among my guests, not to mention easy cleanup!  I went to my local paint dealer and picked up a quart (PLENTY!) of blackboard paint and painted a small circle (you can do any shape) on one side of the glass.  Let these dry overnight and voila!  Mark your guests' initial/s or name on the glass and pour the drink!  


So when thinking about what you are thankful for this year, don't overlook or take for granted the very obvious that is right in front of you...friends.


Happy Thanksgiving from 2jacs to your house!


Glasses from Peir 1

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Tips From A Makeover Master, Tommy Smythe

Photo Courtesy of H&H Magazine (www.houseandhome.com/makeovers11)


Want a stunning reno or makeover?  Do you know where to start?  Luckily in the latest Canadian House & Home Special Makeover Issue, Tommy Smythe guides homeowners on how to get the most bang for your buck...if that's what you want of course.  See what he shares on good design principals and the triangle of expectation.


One of the top tips to keep in mind when doing a reno or makeover is if there is more work than retiling a backsplash, get out of that house!(His exact words!).  You are probably setting yourself up for more than you bargained for or for disappointment in the long haul.  


Always look at how a room will be used, how many people will be using it and at what time of day or night will it be used.  The first thing clients should be aware of is "The Triangle Of Expectation".  Good, being at the top point, fast and cheap being on either side.  These three cannot exist all in one reno or makeover, so pick two and decide on how it's going to be.  It's entirely up to you and if the bones of a house are right, the rest falls into place and will come together as it should with the decorating.  


Tommy's Budget tips and tricks
  • Houseplants
  • Paint
  • Tile
  • Spray Paint Is Your Best Friend
  • Edit, Edit, Edit!
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