2014...The Year of the House

Hey Guys,

If you're like me, it seems that Christmas came FAST this year, and pretty much left the same way.  We had such an amazing holiday this year!!!

  

We ate, drank...

 

(Recipe found here)

 

And were very merry!!!

 

Every year around this time, I often ponder what I want to the next year to bring.  I am a firm believer in speaking things into existence.  Last year, my word was fearless.  This year, although not as deep and thoughful, my theme is still very important to me.  I am declaring that 2014 be "The Year of the House".

 

Now, I know that this may sound crazy.  Maybe even a little trivial. 

 

I am 35 years old, and am finally allowing myself to turn my home into the place that I have always wanted it to be.

 

Now, I know what you're thinking.  "But Kenya...You own your own shop! You're a designer, and always have amazing ideas on Facebook!!! (Did you catch the shameless plug?)  I'm sure your house looks amazing!)

 

It doesn't.

 

Granted, it's "nice".  We have the basics.  You know, the beds, the TV, the stainless appliances.  But I'm tired of just the basics.  I often envy my own clients and customers who send me pictures of ideas that I've given them, or pieces that they've bought from the shop (yes, another plug), and always think, "Wow!!! That looks amazing!!!  Why can't I do this for my own home?!?"

 

Well, this year, that is all changing!  I started back in November with the change of the front door...

 

And continued with some simple smaller projects:

 

Before

 

After

 

It's amazing how even small projects can make you feel just a little better about your home.

 

Our latest project has been such an amazing transformation.  Again, our bedroom before was just "ok".

 

 

Enter...hardwood floors and a killer reclaimed headboard.

 

 

 

We absolutely LOVE our new bedroom space!!!  It is now a place that feels more relaxing and less claustrophobic.  

 

Because after all, your home is not just a place.  It's where memories are made and dreams happen (no, I did not get that from a Hallmark card).  I want it to be the place that I'm not constantly making apologies for when people come over.  I want it to be a place where we feel comfortable and at peace.  After all, it's our home...

 

Enjoy the day everyone!!!

It's Almost Time!!!

Hey guys!!!

Well it's almost time to ring in the new year!  But honestly, 2012 has been so good!!! I had all of these hopes and dreams at the end of 2011 that I couldn't wait to fulfill!!!

 I finally opened up my own little shop:

Met an amazing friend:

Got a new member of the Brantley clan:

 



Got to see my son become an amazing swimmer:

 

 

Got a new little somethin' somethin' to replace the crappy 10-year-old one:

 

 

 

 

Got the wonderful opportunity to help once again with decorating for an amazing cause to end domestic abuse and meet so many beautiful women who were also passionate for such a cause:

 





I even completed some amazing design projects!!!

 

 

 

Yes, 2012 has been an amazing year!!!  But I know that 2013 is going to be even better!!!  

 

 

 

 

Here's to an amazing new year for you!!!

 

God bless!!!

 



Hello Twenty Twelve!!!

If I haven't officially said it...Happy New Year!!!  I hope everyone had an awesome New Year's Eve!!!  Robert and I went out for a night on the town and had a blast!!!

This time of year, I always get so excited!  Excited about new prospects, new clients, new opportunities... 

And the idea of winning a million dollar home doesn't hurt either.  Every year I enter HGTV's Dream Home Giveaway, with hopes that I'll win. 

To be honest, I'm not real crazy about the decor this year, but hey, that can always be changed! 

If you would like to check out more pics or to enter, just visit the Dream Home website. 

Just a thought...

So, are you as excited about the new year as I am?

Enjoy the day!!!

New Year's Inspiration

Can I just say how excited I am about an approaching new year?!?  2011 was a fairly good year, mostly because I got to start blogging again, which I am so happy about!!! 

The hubby and I plan on going out tomorrow night, but I don't have a clue what I'm going to wear.  But I'm feeling a little glitzy and glam.  I don't think I could go wrong with any of these choices...

What are your plans for New Year's Eve?

Enjoy the day!!!