The $50 Home Makeover by Shaunna West

The weather has finally been a little warmer around here, and that, in combination with the longer days, makes me want to work on some new projects. However, despite the slightly higher temperatures, the ground is still snow covered and is limiting me to things  that can be done indoors. So, this morning I searched  my bookshelf for some inspiration, and decided to share what I read with you. It is called The $50 Home Makeover by Shaunna West. Shaunna is the author of the DIY blog Perfectly Imperfect, and has now branched out and written a book full of creative ideas. Shaunna teamed up with some other home design bloggers to compile a book which consists of 75 quick projects that can be completed with $50 or less. Through her down to earth style of writing, she encourages you to start small and to remember that while creating is a process, it is not a process of perfection.The projects all include full-color photographs and are divided into four categories: Before and After, Semi-Handmade, Upcycling, and Simple DIY. Each project is also labeled with a key that indicates the cost, difficulty, and approximate time needed to complete the venture.Whether you are in the mood to paint a basket or some furniture, stencil a pillowcase, or construct a wreath or garland, there is bound to be something that you will want to create once you finish paging through this book. Shaunna encourages you to look around for ways to "transform your current space into your dream place" and to do it all without breaking the bank

Inspired You by Marian Parsons

  It's the new year and a lot of people make resolutions or goals that have to do with getting things done around the house. I debated on whether to do this month's book recommendation on a novel or something else. As I got to thinking about some of the things I wanted to accomplish this year, I knew that sprucing up our home in some way would be on that list. Therefore, instead of writing a post about a novel I've enjoyed, I decided to write about a book that contained some creative projects to help decorate or add a little style and fun to your home. That book is Inspired You by Marian Parsons (aka Miss Mustard Seed). If you've followed this blog, you already know that I started using Marion's brand of milk last year, and quite honestly have fallen in love with this paint. I've also followed her blog for a while, and am inspired by her creativity. Therefore, it shouldn't come as a surprise that I would also enjoy the book that she wrote. Inspired You is filled with beautiful photography as well as instructions for some hands-on projects, ideas for entertaining, and encouragement for developing or expanding your decorating style. Some of the projects are very basic and quick like creating a chalkboard out of a picture frame; some are more involved like making an ottoman; but all of them are inspiring and true to Marion's style. If you're looking for some creative projects to do, or just love paging through a book with some amazing photos that convey the importance of creating a cozy home, then Inspired You is a book you will enjoy. So, as you look around your home and think of all the things you want (or need) to work on this year, keep in mind Marian's words..."You don't need to make your home perfect-- just perfect for your family"..."A beautiful home is made one project at a time"...and..."The heart of hospitality is love."