Now that we have most of our basic furniture pieces in place, I’m slowing getting around to hanging stuff on the walls. I’m drawn to taxidermy but not the moose lodge / trophy room look. I like simple vintage pieces or modern alternatives. I recently discovered White Faux Taxidermy and I’m hooked.

The items offered by this etsy shop are made with a polyresin material, making them animal-friendly and lightweight. You can choose from various animals, sizes and finishes. I like the white and gold pieces above for a neutral and sophisticated living room. Glitter bison horns anyone?

Don’t let the word “white” in the shop’s name fool you. There are colorful options that would be charming in a nursery, child’s bedroom or playroom.

One of the best things about WFT is they have a pinterest board showcasing many of their items in clients’ spaces. Do you spy the silver tabletop skull?

How precious is this nursery with the deer head? And that belly button!

In terms of taxidermy, would you go faux?

Check in later today for a sneak peek of my bedroom!

images: White Faux Taxidermy

My below average, off-the-shelf iPhone case broke a few weeks ago. Since then, I’ve been on the hunt for a new one. I would love a leather one. {On a side note: did you watch season 5 of Project Runway a few years ago? Anyone remember Stella and how she always referred to leather as “leatha”? Well, that’s how I always pronounce it now. Leatha.}

Whilst browsing etsy this week, I came across TRIMleather. The shop offers quality handmade leather accessories – everything from belts to phone cases. The craftsmanship is impeccable. The pieces are constructed using vegetable tanned vintage leather. The stitching, embossing and metal details give a luxe look.

Whenever I come across a new {to me} creative shop, I’m always interested in the story behind it. It turns out, the creator of TRIMleather is Corey Le Me, an interior designer by trade who quit his day job and decided to teach himself how to craft with leather. He says his very first coin purse was a disaster but he kept at it until he reached the high standard of quality that his shop is known for today.

Corey keeps three things in mind when designing new pieces: user friendliness, environmental friendliness and minimal design. “Easy isn’t interesting” is one of his favorite mottos.

Personally, I would love to own a piece of Corey’s work. I think the leather phone cases would be a hit with guys {father’s day gift?} as well. Leather is so versatile and durable.

P.S. – I have received a few emails from House*Tweaking RSS subscribers saying they are having trouble receiving posts via the feed. Anyone else having problems? If you wouldn’t mind letting me know what you use to read your blog feeds, I’d appreciate it. I’m trying to figure out what the problem might be. So far, everything looks okay on my end. Sorry for the inconvenience!

images: TRIMleather

With Mother’s Day quickly approaching, I’d like to share one of my favorite mom-related etsy shops this week. Mod momME is a shop that I have personally purchased from and love. The shop offers stylish handmade mom & baby accessories – everything from diaper bags to cosmetic bags – for those moms not wanting to sacrifice style for practicality. You can have both! Here are my favorite items.

This is the exact changing pad I have in my diaper bag. I prefer to use a roomy, good-looking tote as a non-traditional diaper bag so it’s applicable long after my baby-rearing years. When the tote is fulfilling its diaper bag duties, I toss in this lightweight roll up changing pad for on-the-go diaper changes. The brightly colored pattern makes it easy to spot in the diaper bag amongst all the other baby paraphernalia.

If you prefer having your changing pad, wipes and dipes together, I like this all-in-1 diaper clutch. Great for quick trips {it can’t hold a bunch of diapers} and quick changes. Both the roll up changing pad and diaper clutch have a wipeable TPU changing surface. TPU is non toxic, hypoallergenic, fungus resistant, PVC free, BPA free, lead free and phthalate free. Yesssssss.

I wish I had this wet bag. We use cloth diapers on Mabrey most of the time. I bought a different wet bag before she was born and after two washings a seam ripped and it started leaking. Um, yuck. The great thing about a wet bag is that it isn’t just for dirty cloth diapers. You can use it for wet swimsuits or stinky workout clothes after your baby is potty-trained. You know, that’s when you start wearing a swimsuit and working out again anyways, right? Ha! The inner layer of this wet bag is made of TPU like the changing surfaces above.

Kristin is the mastermind behind mod momME and I was amazed to learn about how her little etsy shop came to be. In her words…

When my youngest child was turning 1 I wanted to make her a dress for her party. I did not know how to sew nor did I own a sewing machine but I was not going to let that stop me. I was on a mission so I purchased a sewing machine, fabric and some patterns. Those purchases led me to etsy where I fell even more in love with handmade. It is also where I acquired my love of fabric.

Over the next few weeks I taught myself how to sew. I discovered 2 things: I was actually pretty good at sewing and I hated following sewing patterns. I became inspired by all the original designs from the artists on etsy and I decided that I was capable of creating my own designs.

I chose to create products for mom and baby. The products had to be innovative, practical and stylish. I prefer to steer clear of cheesy character prints and offer prints and designs geared more towards mom’s liking. As moms we often define ourselves by our children and we lose sight of who we are. I wanted my products to help moms ‘rediscover the ME in mommy!’

How awesome is it that Kristin didn’t let her shortcomings {not knowing how to sew & not owning a sewing machine} keep her from doing something she really wanted to do? Instead, she tried and learned something new and solved a problem in a creative way. I’m always inspired by moms who go after dreams – no matter how big or how small – with kids in tow. What great role models. For me and for their children.

Have you ever tried something new or something just for yourself with a family in the mix? Was it easier or more difficult than you thought it would be? How did you feel afterwards? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

images: mod momME

*THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.*

Congrats to Cindy who is helping a friend with her daughter’s wedding and is in love with the cute wording on the RSVP cards!

Yesterday Jessica shared her oh-so-cozy bedroom with us and today she’s kindly offering you all the chance to win some pretty special product from her etsy shop.

Creating fun, stylish and eco-friendly stationery is Jessica’s passion. {I guess that’s why she has an office in her bedroom!} After playing around with paper for a decade, Jack & Ella Paper Press was born in 2009. The paper shop offers an array of stationery for nearly any occasion.

I’ve featured Jack & Ella Paper Press on H*T before. I personally buy and use the stationery myself and it’s wonderful! I’m drawn to the simple designs, sweet text and heavyweight recycled card stock.

Want in on the paper goods goodness? See below for entry details.

PRIZE: $30 gift card to Jack & Ella Paper Press

RULES: You must be at least 18 years old and have a shipping address within the U.S. {no P.O. boxes please} to enter. One entry per email address.

TO ENTER: Leave a comment on this post proclaiming “OMPG!” {short for “oh my paper goodness!”, of course}

DEADLINE: Enter before Friday, March 15th at noon EST. One random winner will be announced later that same day.

WHILE YOU’RE AT IT: Since we’re talking paper for all occasions…do you have any special events coming up that are stationery worthy? I’ll go first. No “events” here per say but I am in need of some everyday notecards. It seems like every time I open the desk cabinet in the kitchen in search of a last-minute birthday card or thank you note, I come up empty-handed. Looks like I could use some blank cards!

Thanks Jessica!

images: Jessica Bates

*THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.*

Congrats to Jenn who was a fan of the TV show Cheers {one of my dad’s personal favorites} back in the ’80′s. Jenn is this week’s winner of the EcoColor giveaway! And to those of you who were only babies/eggs in your mama’s uterus in the ’80′s…you make me feel verrrrrrrrry old.

What do you like more than pillows? What’s that? FREE pillows, you say. Well, that’s just dandy. Because this week’s giveaway hails from EcoColor, an etsy shop that specializes in colorful pillow covers made from eco-friendly fabrics.

The graphic color blocking and bright hues would be the perfect companion to a mostly neutral decor. {You may recognize the top left pillow from a mood board I created for the boys’ room and then later switched up. Although, I’m thinking my house could still use one or two of those red and white cross pillows.}

I love that some of the pillow patterns have hidden meaning.

Kim, the mastermind behind EcoColor, can customize pillow covers to represent any of the international signal codes shown above. How clever is that?! You could literally plant your “I just don’t get the pillow thing”-thinking hubby/mister/lover/friend/baby/puppy/cat in the middle of the couch surrounded by pillows spelling out S.O.S. Hehe. More realistically, you could designate children’s beds with the first letter of their name OR use a pillow signaling the first letter of your surname on your family room sofa. Pillow talk at its finest ;)

I’m calling it. Color blocked signal code pillows are the new monogram.

Want in on the color blocking pillow action? Great! See entry details below.

PRIZE: two 18″x18″ red and white cross pillows {shown above} + two inserts {!}. Yes, you read that right – two pillow covers + two pillow inserts.

RULES: You must be at least 18 years old and have a shipping address within the U.S. {no P.O. boxes please} to enter. One entry per email address.

TO ENTER: Leave a comment on this post proclaiming “COLOR BLOCK ME!”

DEADLINE: Enter before Friday, February 22nd at noon EST. One random winner will be announced later that same day.

WHILE YOU’RE AT IT: Since we’re talking color blocking…it hasn’t always been so chic. I keep thinking back to those baggy ’80′s sweaters with hideous color blocked patterns a la Punky Brewster. But I was a HUGE Punky Brewster fan. What was your favorite TV show in the ’80′s? C’mon let’s reminisce.

BUT, WAIT!, THERE’S MORE: Use the discount code “HOUSETWEAKING” to score 10% off your EcoColor purchase now through February 28th.

Thanks Kim!

images: polyvore collages by Dana Miller featuring EcoColor imagery

Last year I curated an event for Joss & Main which featured many items that would have worked well in our previous house. We were living in a temporary apartment at the time because the Underdog was under construction {and still is to some extent!} and unlivable. I had a lot of fun putting together the collection. So…I was super excited when the head honchos at Joss & Main contacted me again a few months back and asked me to curate another event.

What’s that? You want me to pretend shop from the comfort of my bed in my pj’s while my kids are sleeping? Yespleaseandthankyou.

The event is now live and you can browse it here! The theme is “Keep It Simple” and it’s a tad more masculine than my last collection because I tend to be leaning that way with our current home’s decor. I don’t know about you but a midcentury ranch feels masculine to me. Am I right? I also incorporated a few items related to our renovation like penny tile and a kitchen faucet. Above are just a few of the items featured in the event. If you’re interested, hop on over and peruse the entire collection for inspiration and easy shopping. I’m telling you straight up that I do receive a small commission from the event – any and all of which I promise to put towards my decorating fund since events like this and my writing contributions elsewhere are how I bring home the bacon now…when I’m not literally bringing home the bacon.

If you’re not already a Joss & Main member, you can sign up for free here.

Thanks for looking and shopping in advance!

image: polyvore collage by Dana Miller, Joss & Main images

*THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.*

Congrats to Josie who thinks of the beach and flowy white fabrics when she hears the word ‘bohemian.’

When Mabrey was born {eight months ago! Can you believe it’s been eight months?! Some days it feels like she just got here and is becoming independent way too fast. On other trying days, I can’t remember NOT being outnumbered by three brain-sucking weasels. Today was one of those days.}, Jessica of Jessica’s Serenity graciously sent me a girlie bracelet in honor of my new pink bundle.

{Oh! Her feet were so tiny. And wrinkly. And pink. It almost gives me baby fever. Almost. Btw, Mabrey’s toes are still long and still all the same length. I keep saying she’s either going to be a runner or a dancer. Maybe a carny?}

I’m happy to report that my bracelet is still going strong. No unraveling or any wear-and-tear to speak of. I get compliments on it all the time. Jessica recently contacted me about sponsoring a giveaway and I couldn’t resist another peek at her bead-a-licious jewelry. Jessica specializes in fun, surfer chic, beach and nature inspired bohemian jewelry. She uses a variety of beads in her creations so you’re sure to find a piece that suits your style. Each item is hand crafted for a one-of-a-kind look. Whether you lean towards bright colors or neutral naturals, there’s something for every wannabe surfer girl.

That yellow one is totally rockin’ my world right now. Could your jewelry collection use a little bohemian flair? There’s good news for you. See details below and maybe win a bracelet of your own!

PRIZE: one bracelet from Jessica’s Serenity up to a $45 value

RULES: You must be at least 18 years old and have a U.S. shipping address {no P.O. boxes please} to enter. One entry per email address.

TO ENTER: Leave a comment on this post proclaiming “BOHO ME!”

DEADLINE: Enter before Friday, December 14th at noon EST. One random winner will be announced later that same day.

WHILE YOU’RE AT IT: Since we’re talking bohemian…what comes to mind when you hear read the word ‘bohemian?’ I’ll go first. I think of long wavy locks that have been kissed by the sun. I think of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody.’ I think of Amber Interiors.

BUT, WAIT!, THERE’S MORE: Jessica is offering House*Tweaking readers free shipping on any order placed now through December 15th! Just enter the coupon code “SHIPFREE” at checkout. These unique bracelets would make a great Christmas gift for just about any girl with a wrist. And I think that covers pretty much all girls – minus the random shark attack and farm machine injury. In which case, my apologies.

images: Jessica’s Serenity

*THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.*

Congrats to Kellie who has five naked windows in her new place that could use some TLC and who saw her last live performance waaaaay too long ago {like me!} back in December. Here’s to making live performance viewings less rare!

I’ve got another fabulous etsy shop to share with you today! Nena Von specializes in custom drapery and designer pillows.

I’ve purchased many a pillow cover {Imagine that. Me. Buying pillow covers. Crazy.} from this shop and they are wonderful. With all the different prints, colors and sizes available, there’s sure to be one that suits your home inside or out.

This week the shop’s owner, Summer, is graciously offering up a pair of custom drapery panels. Do you have a window in need of some flair? Great! See entry details below.

PRIZE: a pair of Nena Von custom drapery panels. Choose from one of the five drapery fabrics above. Each panel will be 50″ wide and lined. The winner will specify the desired length and choice of finished top: brushed nickel grommet top, flat panel (for clip rings) or rod top. Because this prize will be custom made, please allow 2-3 weeks for shipping.

RULES: You must be at least 18 years old to enter. One entry per email address. International entries are welcome!

HOW TO ENTER: Leave a comment on this post proclaiming “CURTAIN CALL!”

DEADLINE: Enter before Thursday, July 26th at 9:00 p.m. EST. One random winner will be announced Friday, July 27th.

WHILE YOU’RE AT IT: Since we’re talking curtain calls…what was the last live performance you went to see? A concert? A Broadway show? The ballet? I’ll go first. The last live performance I saw was Layne’s music performance at his school back in February. I know. Waaaaay too long ago. It was a singing performance that his class and a few other first grade classes put on for a local retirement community. They did such a great job that the directors decided to have a concert for parents and families as well. The theme was ‘We Can Make a Difference’ and I was so surprised by the performance {the kids were on key and smiling, you could actually hear what they were saying, videos of the kids helping out around the school and community were playing, Layne was in the tallest back row and kept putting one hand above his eyes bill-style trying to find us in the audience, and they were delivering a great message} that I cried the entire time. And I’m usually not a crier! Oh, how kids can pull at your heartstrings sometimes.

Don’t forget to like Nena Von on Facebook to get in on exclusive giveaways and discounts!

Click here to see who won the Del Mar Designs giveaway.

images: Nena Von

*THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.*

Congrats to Kodie who is ruffled by her daughter’s new school uniform policy.

You may remember this famous mustard pillow from my bedroom of yore…

I bought it from the etsy shop Jilly Bean Craft. The shop’s owner, Jill, is graciously sponsoring this week’s giveaway! Her shop features a variety of handmade items including clutches and pillows.

Jill says she’s inspired by modern, retro and vintage designs. I don’t know about you, but I’m inspired by all the ruffles and rosettes. Adorable!

Want in on all the ruffled linen-y goodness? Great! See entry details below.

PRIZE: $25 credit to Jilly Bean Craft

RULES: You must be at least 18 years old and have a shipping address within the U.S. {no P.O. boxes please} to enter.

HOW TO ENTER: Leave a comment on this post proclaiming “RUFFLE ME!”

DEADLINE: Enter before Friday, July 20th at noon EST. One random winner will be announced later that same day.

WHILE YOU’RE AT IT: Since we’re talking ruffles…Tell me what has ruffled your feathers recently. I’ll go first. You may have noticed I was MIA late last week. That wasn’t deliberate. We had an issue at the Underdog that sent us packing. We crashed at my dad’s house for several days. My dad has no internet service. Thus, the MIA status. I’ll go into more detail about the ‘issue’ in a designated post but I will tell you it involved water + wood. And we all know that water + wood = no good. My feathers were definitely ruffled.

images: 1) Dana Miller for House*Tweaking 2) polyvore collage by Dana Miller using Jilly Bean Craft images

Moving day is quickly approaching so most of our recent purchases have to do with function. We need a few rooms to work for us right away. Decor and styling can wait.

1 – PAX BERGSBO This wardrobe is typically found in bedrooms acting as a freestanding closet. The Underdog is seriously lacking closet space so we purchased two of these to use in the mudroom for extra storage.

2 – Kashmir white granite We’re having the same company that installed the {Absolute Black} granite in our previous house install this granite along the perimeter of the Underdog’s kitchen. We considered butcher block, concrete and other solid surfaces for the perimeter but kept coming back to granite as we liked it so much in our last house. It’s a light gray granite with bits of black, garnet and gold mixed in.

3 – Walnut butcher block The kitchen island is getting topped with a walnut slab. We want the island to feel more like a table and gathering place than a food prep area so we like the idea of a wood top. To save money, we bought an unfinished slab that we’ll finish and install ourselves.

4 – Vigo stainless steel faucet We never regret spending a little extra money on a high quality kitchen faucet since it’s something we use many, many times on a daily basis. It makes the mundane feel less so.

5 – Kraus undermount single bowl sink Ditto – what I just said about the kitchen faucet. In addition, I like an extra deep, single bowl for washing up large pots, pans and the crockpot…things we use frequently.

6 – Liberty hook with porcelain knobs The master bathroom will be the only functioning bathroom we’ll have when we move into the Underdog so it needs a few finishing touches to make it work. We don’t have the wall space for a traditional towel bar so I picked up two of these hooks to hang our bath towels on.

7 – AKURUM LIDINGÖ Two of these cabinets in the 18″ x 39″ size are going in the laundry nook above the washer and dryer. I love the look of open shelving in a laundry area but we need some closed storage. I plan on pairing the cabinets with an open shelf or two as a compromise.

8 – Alexandria towel ring This towel ring is for the master bathroom. It has a touch of porcelain and should tie in nicely with the hooks in #6.

A few other items we’ve purchased in anticipation of moving that are worth mentioning {but not worth showing a picture of} are:

*Levolor room darkening shades for all the bedroom windows. I had them cut in-store to fit within the window frames. I’ll be adding other treatments to the windows in the future and these will remain to block out light.

*Shower caddy for the master bathroom…self-explanatory.

*Over-the-tank toilet paper holder for the master bathroom. It holds four rolls and, after I tried it out, I discovered it’s too big for our teeny bathroom. It won’t fit between the toilet and tub. I’m exchanging it for something else.

I think that’s it. I still haven’t nailed down lighting fixtures for the master or boys’ bedrooms. We might have lone lightbulbs in place until I make up my mind. Not the end of the world. I’d rather wait than hastily buy something that I don’t like later.

Alright gotta run, baby’s crying.

images: Polyvore collage by Dana Miller, linked within