Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Shutters, and Singing, and Sidebars, oh my!



Well, we decided not to use the shutters in the reading room after all...



We loved the idea of having shutters, but we just couldn't get used to the look of them. They were really easy and inexpensive to make, so it's okay that they didn't end up working out.

Basically, I sent Kevin to Lowes to get some picket fence posts ($1.30 per picket) and four small hinges so we could attach them to the window.



He used an old plank of beadboard (we salvaged from an old, abandoned house next door to my Mom's) across the top and bottom...



And would you believe all he used to hold everything together was wood glue?
(Waaay easier than finding the right sized screws!)

I might try and use them somewhere else, maybe as doors or maybe some sort of wall hanging. We really do like them....just not in the reading room.

:-)



In other news, my shutter-making husband is flying home from New York today.



He flew there yesterday to meet with a record label that's interested in signing his band. This will be there second go-round with a label (they first got signed to Geffen Records in 2001, but got "dropped" in 2005). It'll be interesting to hear about his big night in the Big Apple when he gets home tonight.
All I know so far is that they took him to Morton's for dinner last night and that he was presented with a menu that had his bands name printed on it.
Crazy!
Definitely a lot fancy-schmancier than our usual supper set-up: tray tables in the living room.

:-)

I'm glad he had an opportunity to go out and be spoiled for a change. I'm very proud of him and no matter what happens, I'm just happy he knows there are people out there that still love his music. (In fact, he was so touched by your comments about it that he's been talking about writing and recording an acoustic/piano record just for you lately.)

:-)

The house was so quiet without him here yesterday.
Not that's he's super loud or anything, but he is usually either playing acoustic guitar or working on some part of the house.
When I'm home alone, I don't even turn the TV on. I just listen to life outside my window and that helps me feel less alone.

Since it was obvious that we were the only ones home, Mr. Bean even hung out in the living room for a while...





He's very skittish, and normally hides all day long when anyone other than myself is in the house.

Maximus, on the other hand, was a little on edge all day...



He kept looking out the window for "Daddy".



We got him when he was very little, so he's super attached to the both of us...



It's hard to believe he turned four last week!

He's always cold, so he can often be found curled up inside my clothing as I work on the computer.



:-)

Okey dokey artichokey, I've gotta clean up the house before Mr. LC gets home, so I better get a move on- I've got about sixteen projects going at once for my "Mantel Mania" post next Monday and it looks like a tornado blew through here!

Before I sign off though, I did want to take a second to direct you to a few areas in our sidebar. I've received a lot of emails asking where certains things are located, so I thought I'd take a second to point them out.

You can follow us using a reader, or on Twitter, grab one of our buttons, or subscribe to our blog underneath our Sponsors section:



If you're looking for a particular post, you can find it in the Categories section:



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Alright. I'm off to see the Wizard. Wait, I mean, the Swiffer.
Have a happy day!

:-)

Layla



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71 comments:

Crib Tales said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Crib Tales said...

HUGE congrats to Kevin (I feel like I know you two so I can call you by your first names - K?)!!!! And I am stealing your shutter idea as a new background for my photography!

Tricia Rose said...

Those shutters will end up somewhere! Your reading room is so enticing, time out for grown-ups...

katie hanson said...

love that last picture of you and mr. bean! and congrats to kevin, i hope he has good news for you!

The Old Painted Cottage said...

Love the shutters, too bad they didn't work out for the Reading Room. I made shutters just like yours for the exterior front of our home last summer..you're right, they're super duper easy to make!

oxox
Jennifer

Pam - @diy Design Fanatic said...

Wow, exciting news about Kevin! Always love to hear what you guys are up to!

Samantha2818 said...

For some reason the link you posted for Kevin's music wouldn't work on my PC so I looked him up on You Tube. Loads of them there. I really love your favourite song of his and loads more. Hope he gets signed!
I love the shutters too. I also think they look great there so can't wait to see what you end up with that will top them!
~ Sam

Grizzly Bear said...

Great post. I love that it is so beautiful.... just beautiful!

Jennifer said...

You're lucky to be in love ...decor, furries and family - love the shutter too! Jennifer

Amanda said...

Your blog is to cute for words! I have a dog just like Maximus. She is brown and is the love of my life. Maybe I could write a blog about her.

Brittney said...

That's so neat that Kevin might get signed!! Good luck! Our puppy Lulu crawls in my jackets and sweatshirts too-she's always freezing!

Cottage Dreamers said...

Max is so cute! It's always been funny to me that our pets know so much about what's going on and their reactions. I hope Kevin's trip went well.
☺ Celeste

Jennifer@Pieces of Me said...

You and your husband are such a beautiful couple, And you work so well together creating! Your dog and kitty are cute too!
Love to visit your blog!

Nicole-Lynn said...

Love the shutters! They look so nice. The pillows, wall coordinate so well. Congrats to your husband.

My Cottage Charm said...

I can't wait to hear about Kevin's trip! Tell him we're all rooting for him! :)
Can't wait to see where you use those shutters....I'm sure you'll find somewhere..too cute not to use! Please come visit my blog today and see what my lovely husband did for me........OH so sweet!!! :)

Karla@TheClassyWoman said...

Wow! That's great to hear about Kevin's band-how exciting! I love those little shutters, so cute.

The last photo of you with your cat is so precious. I miss having a cat to curl up with and rub her cold little wet nose on my forehead. ;)

michiganhome said...

That last pic of you and your cat is just the best! Did Kevin take it? You guys rock!

s as in tset said...

Well apparently, I need to get on the shutter wagon! I don't know where they'll go, but I better make some cuz they sure look cool!

And congrats to Mr. P. We'll all look forward to finding out more about his NY adventure.

Leigh of Tales from Bloggeritaville said...

Congratulations to Kevin! WHat wonderful news.
And Layla, I LOVE those shutters in your reading room. I made some for my bathroom that I adore. I think it adds much character!
Stop by and see me sometime.
All the best!

Leigh
Tales from Bloggeritaville
www.lbratina.blogspot.com

Laura Trevey said...

Adorable pics... and I do love the shutter idea...

xoxo Laura

Nancy Hood said...

Yeah, I like it better without the shutters, but love the way they turned out! Love the idea of the record!!! and just adore that last shot of you and Mr. Bean :) suh-weet!!!

Chris Kauffman said...

My sister in law has the first set of shutters I made over her fireplace , I also made bi-fold set to hide the tv , sometimes you just can't find the perfect piece and its time to make it .
Love them .
I feel for kevin the music business sounds like the TV business so many almost there moments and he's {my hub} a behind the scenes guy , it is tough on everyone when the golden ticket is dangled infront of you.

TheVirginiaHouse said...

Good Luck to Kevin! Love the shutters no matter where they may land...

AnNicole@Our Suburban Cottage said...

Kevin's been talking about writing and recording an acoustic/piano record just for me?! Well, I'm flattered, really. It's totally unnecessary though. :)

Loved the shutters! I understand how things just don't work in a room sometimes, though.

Staci at Craftify It ! said...

1st-awesome for Kevin! No matter what happens, that is exciting!

2nd-LOVE the shutters, even if they don't work in that room. You'll find another use for them!

3rd-I actually think your animals are really cute & that is saying a LOT because I am NOT an animal person...at all.

Janie said...

Your Mr. Bean looks like my Lizzy, aka the Lizanator, but she's not a hide-r.

People Who Know Me Would Say: said...

YAY, Kevin!!!!!!!! I can't even imagine the excitement of the prospect, much less being wined and dined!

I love stopping by and trying to keep up with you young people. ;)

Tina said...

I LOVE those shutters, I hope you can use them somewhere else in your gorgeous home! Congrats to your hubby that is so exciting!!! I seriously cannot wait for your mantel post, this is the one part of my home I just can;t seem to get right and I am so looking forward to your ideas and inspirations:) Wishing you a lovely day ~ Tina x

Dreamy Whites said...

Miss Layla,
Your posts are always so fun & inspiring! I am dreaming of sleeping on that bed! Your shutters are so sweet! I am going to have to get my husband to make some. He will just love you for this!! I will first show him the video of Kevin happily tearing down the drywall. Maybe that will get him in the mood! I was very impressed with that post! You guys are the best. Tell Kevin congratulations! My daughter is learning how to play the guitar. She is on her third month of lessons & loves it. Can't wait for your mantle post!!!!
Thanks for all the inspiration!
Take Care,
Maria

Geo said...

I worry about you two so this was encouraging to read that Mr. LC was being wined and dined. You both deserve to do what you love. I hope it all works out. Love the new ceiling. I use ocean air on my ceilings and I did the jute thing last summer on my porch swing chain. Fun!

Carol in Indian Springs Village said...

Good thoughts for Kevin coming his way. And I'd love to hear some more acoustic from him! Love the shutters too, that gives me an idea for a honey-do.

Pine Tree Home said...

Best wishes for Kevin on his music. I love hearing new music...where can I find some of his?

PS. I like the look of the shutters

Carolyn {SweetTeaandLinen} said...

That is wonderful for Kevin! My fingers & toes are crossed :) Love the photos of the babies. so sweet! Love the shutters too. I know whatever you decide to do with them will look spectacular!

Screaming Meme said...

I hate to be home alone...:( My Bella is alot like Maxy...She wants us all here...I carry her in my cloths too...Too funny to see someone else do that...GOOD LUCK, Mr. Lettered Cottage...We are crossing our fingers and toes...I love the shutters...So adorable...Meme

Geezees Custom Canvas Art said...

Great post...you and Kevin are too cute! Love your shutters :)

Taylor Galen said...

I'm a new follower and I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your blog. If I had your reading room I'd be better about finishing the books I'm supposed to read for my book club (aka drinking club). I look forward to keeping up with your (and Kevin's!) adventures.

The Starr Family said...

Is it okay to say I'm not feeling the shutters either??? I love that reading room, however. Love it. And yay for your hubby, exciting news!

Unknown said...

A big congrats to the possibilities for Kevin. How exciting! He'd better get that to-do list done around the cottage before he starts recording. He'll be knee high in music soon :) we hope :)

Anonymous said...

Mortons steak house -- know it well! Bet Kevin won't eat for a few days. Hope this deal is everything he wants it to be. He is a very talented musician and knows how to sling a hammer too. How blessed are you?!

One of the reasons I love your blog is because you are willing to take chances -- not all work (like the shutters) but at least you stepped outside the box and tried.

Have a wonderful evening,
Deborah

Beth West www.northernskyart.wordpress.com said...

Please share the name of Kevin's band again. I missed it and would love to hear some of his music.

angela | the painted house said...

The map is hilarious! How cool for Kevin! I hope it all works out. I checked out the band's video--and those guys, uh, rock! :) Very talented all around, Kevin.

Layla, that last photo of you and the cat, ahh, melt. Reminds me why I miss having a cat around the house.

mkelton24 said...

Well I happen to think the shutters looks super cute-but I do the same thing with decorating ALL the time. My husband says he never knows where what is going to be when he gets home!

Big Congrats to Kevin-there is nothing like living your dream!I've been there and done that with my Mr- I always felt like I was the proud parent because only I knew what all he really put into his baseball. I am sure you feel the same way with your "child!"

Woven and Spun said...

Oh that photo of Maximus looking up at the camera is just beautiful!
Exciting news about Kevin - the link wouldn't work for me so I'll do a youtube search : )

Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia said...

Congrat's to Kevin , keeping my fingers crossed for him! Loving the shutter idea!
:) Kristin

Tales From My Empty Nest said...

Sorry the shutters did not work in the reading room, but hopefully you can use them somewhere. Congrats to Kevin. Please let us know how the trip to NY turned out for him. Your kitty looks so much like ours and your little dog resembles our dog too. Small world, isn't it? Glad you have enjoyed your time at home by yourself. Hope you got lots done. Love & blessings from NC!

Pony Girl said...

I wish Kevin and his band the best of luck on a record deal! Very exciting!
I love the photos of your "children" especially of your Maximus, he is such a darling!!

Missy in Texas said...

Layla, where can we check out Mr.LC's music?
Also, I think the shutters are cute. Are you sure you don't want to leave them up?

Melly said...

Hi Layla,
the shutters are just lovely I hope you find somewhere else that you can use them!
Happy cleaning!
Melly:)

Grace@ MammaInTheScene said...

my sister has a chihuahua. she keeps her in her clothes to keep her warm.
Just wanted you to know...you're not the only one! ^_^

Lynn Kellan said...

Layla,
I'm so excited to hear about Kevin's potential offer to sign his band... Keep us posted!! :)

Unknown said...

I cant wait for "Mantle Mania"! I hope you have some ideas for those of us that have husbands who HAVE to have the monsterous flat screen TV's hanging above the mantle...because I'm at a total loss of what to "around" ours...

Cathy said...

Good Luck to Kevin! Layla, you two are both very talented and will do great, no matter what you do. All you have to do is believe and work hard and the two of you already do that :o)

{{Big Hugs}}

Cathy

Misty said...

When you posted the link to Kevin's music the other day, I called my husband in to listen to it, as this is the type of music he likes. He saw the band's name and got all excited and laughed b/c he said "I was just thinking about them the other day and wondered what ever happened to them." Then he told me the name of one of their songs and I realized I knew who they were too b/c of Octane on XM radio. (they play them all the time) We were both excited to hear that good things may be on the way to Kevin. Good luck! We are very excited to hear what happens!

Unknown said...

The interior shutters are cool. They function allowing for light control and privacy, and give you the semi-rustic look you wanted.

Tera said...

I'm stopping in from visiting Nester. WOW...what a cool consult you did for her! :0 My eyes popped out! So inspiring! My husband and I are on your list for a consult and seeing Nester's room makes us even more excited! Yay! I hope that you are enjoying having Kevin home today! So excited for him (and for you!) Take care!

Anonymous said...

The picture of Maximus as a puppy is ridiculously cute! (Love the shutters, too!) Have fun in happy reunitedness and congrats to Kevin!

Sandy said...

You and Kevin are such sweeties! Hope you get good news and I'm looking forward to hearing another song from Kevin. PS - I liked the shutters. But it is your home and I'm sure you will find another spot that you will love for them.

Susan said...

Hi Layla, I absolutely love what you did to Nesters livingroom. Do you do that for people? Take photos and change it up with colors and furniture placement and or new piece ideas? If you do, what do you charge for that service? I would love that done for our awkward livingroom. Thanks,
Susan

Connie said...

Those shutters are just lovely! The fur babies are adorable and congrats to both of you on Kevin's possibilities!

Leen said...

Can't wait to hear how Kevin made out in NY! Fancy restaurants are nice but I am willing to bet that he would rather be having a tray table dinner with you anytime!

Unknown said...

Fantastic! Great things keep happening to great people! And yes, there are several in our office who like Kevin's music. I am keeping the shutter idea in the memory bank for our sun room - some day.

Unknown said...

A request - how about an idea or two for those of us who have skinny mantles on a three sided fireplace. And two cats, and a dog who chases cats (Daisy Dog does not need a tread mill), and a minimalist husband, and worst of all, no money!

Dorm Bedding said...

Oh, the room looks great! Love the colors you have in there - and your pets are sooo sweet :)

pve design said...

I am jumping up and down for you, tiver me shutters!
Mr.Bean is such a cutie.
pve

Anonymous said...

Your pets are beautiful. Does Maximus get to put on a sweater when he's cold? Our chihuahua used to spend all day in front of the one heater vent that came straight out from under the kitchen sink. Those guys with thin coats, big and small, unfortunately need to put on a sweater when we do too!

geri said...

Hi Layla.
Dreams and miracles happen.
You took a chance on your dreams and passions.
Kevin is persueing a fantastic opportunity to show his other talents;being a musician.
I believe to dare to try something different or new is the hardest and the most exciting thing you can do in life.
You both do it so well.
Love hearing your great stories and great news each day.
Have a great time when Kevin gets home with his NYC stories. geri.
p.s. anytime you want to stay at my house if you go to NYC I would love it. I live an hour away and work there as an independant contrator.You have an invitation anytime.Maybe we could move a few things around too. hehe

Southern Mom said...

Good luck to Kevin! Your Max is so cute! We have a 15 week Chi and I'm going mad trying to housebreak her!

carolyn said...

Layla- I loved this post. For so many reasons.....

how supportive you are of Kevin (and he of you!)
how your enthusiasm about everything comes through in your writing
how much you love your pets
how much you care about your readers
how happy your life makes you
how open you are to risks and trying new things
how bright your smile is.

enjoy your weekend!!
carolyn

cotedetexas said...

i actually like those shutters there, but what do i know?
congrats on kevin - hope it works out - loved loved loved his video.

Jill said...

So cute! We just made these today for my daughter's shabby beachy room! Thanks for the inspiration!

Paige said...

You only live 3 and a half hours from where I live in MS. I could use your expertise on my home!! There are lovely old houses you could check out here! :-)