Bouncing Off The Walls

Watermelon Pink!

2011-07-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've blogged about the redo of my daughter's room. Mostly because it's been awhile since I've actually done anything! Finding the time is hard around here and I was waiting for two major items. One was a new bed and the other was a dresser and night stand.

The bed we purchased this weekend. The dresser and night stand had been in our shed for the past while waiting for me to do a makeover on them.

This dresser set is one that my parents owned before I was born. I won't tell you how old that was but let's just say that Elvis was still the King! It had a dark brown stain on it and brass hardware. I took the set with me when I moved out on my own and about 11 years ago I sanded them down to their natural wood and they remained that way until yesterday.

Now, when I sanded them and varnished them the first time I swore I would never redo a piece of furniture again! It sucked. Really. I do not have the patience for all the sanding. BUT, I knew that this time would be different. For starters, I was going for a shabby chic sort of style so making mistakes is a bonus. I wanted it scuffed and worn looking. Since they'd already been sanded to their natural wood I didn't have to do much sanding at all.

I got really lazy with the paint. Now I may be a painter but I can't stand painting furniture! Again, no patience and no time! So I bought spray paint. Really! Krylon spray paint. Two colors, watermelon and ivory. The only pink and off white that Canadian Tire carried! Grand total of about $16!

I started out by doing a pretty shoddy job of spraying everything in the ivory color. It took about 10 minutes to dry then I sanded around the edges and areas I wanted to have the natural wood showing through. Then I sprayed it all in the watermelon. When that was dry I again did some sanding to let some of the ivory and natural wood show through. The entire project took about an hour and I am SO happy with how they turned out!

I've ordered these knobs (what a steal they were!) and can't wait for them to arrive!

At this point her room is about 90% finished and I can't wait to show it off! Stay tuned!

Before:

After:

And The Winner Is......

2011-06-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy lately that I didn't even notice when my Facebook page went over 5,000 "likes." For those that have been paying attention you know what that means! I promised awhile back that once my page got over 5,000 wonderful fans that I would donate $250 to the charity of YOUR choice. Tonight I was able to make that donation!

The list of charities in the running was created by YOU. All you had to do was let me know about a charity that you wanted to support and it went into the draw. Chosen by Random.org the lucky charity that received the $250 donation was the Children's Cottage Society!

The Children’s Cottage Society offers a wide range of programs for parents and children in Calgary, Alberta strengthening families by demonstrating leadership through a network of Crisis, Respite, and Support Services.

Their Services Include:
• Crisis Nursery
• Respite Care
• Family Support

Their Mission:

“Preventing harm and neglect to all children and strengthening families through crisis, respite and support services”.

The Children’s Cottage Society believes asking for help is a sign of strength. The Children’s Cottage works closely with other agencies to connect families to appropriate resources that can meet their needs.

Check out their wish list to see if you have any items you can donate to them:

Wish List

I have loved doing this giveaway as it has really shown me some fantastic organizations that are out there really making a difference. I can only hope that by doing this I've been able to spread some awareness and teach you about some of them as well.

Click here to learn about all the great charities that were in the running!

Thank you to everyone who participated!

5,000 Fan Charity Giveaway

2011-04-22T17:30:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy lately that I haven't focused much on my 5,000 fan charity giveaway! It's gotten left behind in the dust so now that we're up over 4,100 fans I figured I'd better give it some attention again!

If you're new here you're going to want the details! Here is a copy and paste of the giveaway details and rules:

One thing I'm extremely passionate about in my life is giving back. I've always had grand plans of pushing my business and making it succeed not only for the benefit of my own family but so that I would have the ability to help others as well. I am very blessed to have been given a talent that I've been able to turn into a business that does help support my family.

My kids have everything they need. As a family we are all healthy, we have a roof over our heads, clothing on our backs and food on our plates. We take vacations, take part in sports and activities and are lucky to have a fantastic, supportive community of people around us.

However, we know that so many families are not so lucky. Too many families out there in our own communities do without some of the things I've mentioned above be it health, food and clothing or even the supportive community. So many families need a helping hand in some way, shape or form.

I can't help everyone. I sure wish I could - but what I can do is give what I DO have. What I CAN. Sometimes even the smallest thing for one person can change a whole life. We all have a cause or a charity we're passionate about and I know what it's like when you want to help so bad, but can't.

That is why, instead of doing a regular prize draw for my fans here on my Facebook page, I thought I'd do something that would be more beneficial than someone winning a few letters for their wall or a holder for their daughter's hair bows.

This one is simple. Once I reach 5,000 "likes" I will give $250 to the charity of YOUR choice. All you have to do is comment below this post or on my Facebook page. Tell me what charity or organization you're passionate about. When we hit 5,000 I will do a random pick from the list using www.random.org and the winning charity will receive the money. Each charity will be entered as many times as someone different chooses to recommend it. So if 5 people choose the "ABC" charity, the ABC charity will get 5 entries. So here's a good chance to spread the word to everyone and help your favorite charity WIN!

The rules? They're easy.

The charity must be an actual registered charity or a real cause that can be proven.
The winner will be drawn from the list of charities on my blog.
The draw will take place once 5,000 fans is reached.When that happens I will post a comment with the word **CLOSED**. Any comments made after that will not be eligible.

Good luck!

Here's a list of the charities that we have in the running to date. I've only listed each one once here to keep the list short! I provided the links for all of them so take a minute and check them out. I sure learned a lot by doing just that!

Alberta Children's Hospital
Shining Through Centre For Autism
MS Society of Alberta
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Made By Momma
Make A Wish Southern Alberta
ALS Society of Alberta
Muscular Dystrophy Canada
American Cancer Society
Cochrane SPCA
The Christmas Fairy
Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada
Edmonton's Hair Massacure
Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan's Purse
Children's Cottage Society
Children's Wish Foundation of Saskatchewan
Build It Forward
Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario
Calgary Food Bank
Calgary Reads
Ugandan Girls Fund
Name Canada
Pads 4 Girls
Calgary Women's Shelter
Destiny in Quebec
Pearl Alliance
BC Children's Hospital
Knights Table in Brampton, ON
Anaphylaxis Canada
St. Jude Children's Hospital
Smile Train
Island Dog Rescue
Spina Bifida Association
Kelowna, BC Food Bank
Canadian Salvation Army
March of Dimes
Children Are People
Childhood Cancer Canada
Soi Cat and Dog Bangkok
Schreiber Pediatric
Sick Kids

Paint and Pom Poms

2011-04-15T11:44:00.000-07:00

It was hard, but I was able to do it! I waited the 72 hours for the wall paper to dry fully before I broke out the paint!

Let me start by saying that now that the painting is done in my daughter's room I am even MORE happy with that textured, paintable wall paper! I thought it would soak up the paint and I'd have to do a whole bunch of coats to get in all the little grooves but boy, was I wrong! ONE coat of paint! That's it! I had to do two on all the other walls, but the paint went on that wall paper so nicely.

The colour I chose was Behr's River's Edge and I love it!

Painting done it's now on to the good stuff! I have lots to do and it will most likely get done slowly as I'm still hunting for some items but I started with the pom poms! I bought these months ago from Pom Love on Etsy and I've been dying to get them up!

They weren't difficult at all to open up , although I could use a bit more patience as I tore a couple of pieces here in there in my haste! I am very happy with how they look and more importantly - so is my daughter! She calls them her flowers! My only regret is that I wish I would have bought a white one and one less light aqua one as it's so close to the wall colour, but when I bought the poms I didn't know what paint colour I was doing!

Speaking of flowers - I found these the other day and knew they'd be perfect! You'll never guess where I found them! The Safeway floral department! I was in the produce section picking out a green pepper and glanced over. They were $5! Can't go wrong there and I think they look great!

Lots more to come. I'm not going to show you the WHOLE room yet! I hung up her new curtains but I think they're a little bit brighter than I wanted so I need to wash them a few times to fade them!

Can't wait to show you all the letters I will be doing for her!

Bye Bye Nemo!

2011-04-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I've been redoing my daughter's bedroom. (See this blog post for the details)

Ok. So the truth? I've been THINKING about redoing my daughter's room. Imagining it, planning it in my head, buying things for it. But the actual DOING it hasn't really taken off! Spare time around here is harder to come by than a springtime in Alberta without a blizzard!

So, this weekend, with plenty of other things to do, I got started on her room. If I don't just do it; it won't happen. First task? Saying goodbye to the Finding Nemo mural that I painted on the wall about 7 years ago before I even had kids.

Covering a wall mural is not a project that is high on my "want-to-do" list. Until I found this wall paper from Sears.

I bought this wall paper a long time ago and it's been sitting here waiting for me. I was nervous. I have never put up wall paper before. I had visions of it stuck to everything but the walls, full of rips and tears, the paper not staying and a husband who will never help me with any project again. But, I was pleasantly surprised and I'm over the moon happy with the results!

It was definitely a two person job and I'm lucky that my husband is over 6 ft tall! I will say that although it wasn't a FUN job, it was a fairly easy one and we got it done in good time.

Here's the wall before hand:

Here it is when we were half finished. You can still see the mural through the paper but I wasn't too worried about that because we will be painting it.

We finished the whole wall in about an hour and a half. That seems long but you have to wait while each strip sits wet for 5 minutes between wetting it and putting it up so we got a bunch of 5 minute breaks in there!

I have to trim around the edges still. My concern over seeing the mural through the paper? Well, when the paper dried you couldn't see it at all! All the bubbles disappeared and the wall looks amazing! The only downfall? I have to wait 72 hours to paint it and now I'm raring to go!

We did end up with a lot of wasted paper simply because you have to line the design up. I thought I had bought too much (2 rolls) but we needed it. I have a bunch extra but nothing that would line up or be long enough to do from floor to ceiling and still line up. I think this is a conspiracy on the wall paper company's part! Therefore, for this one wall cost us about $20 which isn't bad but if you were doing a whole room it could add up.

All in all, if you have a mural to cover, this textured wall paper is a fantastic, easy way to go. No sanding down paint lumps or brush strokes and no painting 5 or 6 coats of paint to cover the image. I didn't even wash the wall. The best part? One day when we don't live in this house - someone is bound to Find Nemo!

5,000 Fan Charity Giveaway

2011-02-28T19:13:00.000-08:00

So I'm doing a giveaway on my Facebook page once I reach 5,000 fans. Doesn't everyone? Not like this they don't!

This one is simple. Once I reach 5,000 "likes" I will give $250 to the charity of YOUR choice. All you have to do is comment here on my Facebook page. Tell me what charity or organization you're passionate about. I will list all the charities mentioned here on my blog. When we hit 5,000 I will do a random pick using www.random.org and the winning charity will receive the money.

So far this has been a great experience. I've met some awesome people and learned about some great charities I didn't even know existed! I'm excited to have the opportunity to not only learn about them myself but to also share them with everyone else in the hopes of bring some awareness in their direction!

If you've entered into the draw don't forget to share it with your friends

Want to learn more about some of the charities in the running so far? Here's a list with links:
***Please note that I have to update this list so if you don't see your charity on here I just have to add it still!

Alberta Children's Hospital
Shining Through Centre For Autism
MS Society of Alberta
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Made By Momma
Make A Wish Southern Alberta
ALS Society of Alberta
Muscular Dystrophy Canada
American Cancer Society
Cochrane SPCA
The Christmas Fairy
Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada
Edmonton's Hair Massacure
Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan's Purse
Children's Cottage Society
Children's Wish Foundation of Saskatchewan
Build It Forward
Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario
Calgary Food Bank
Calgary Reads
Ugandan Girls Fund
Name Canada
Pads 4 Girls
Calgary Women's Shelter
Destiny in Quebec
Pearl Alliance
BC Children's Hospital
Knights Table in Brampton, ON
Anaphylaxis Canada
St. Jude Children's Hospital
Smile Train
Island Dog Rescue
Spina Bifida Association
Kelowna, BC Food Bank
Canadian Salvation Army

Aqua,Teal, Turquoise.....Any Shade Will Do!

2011-02-02T09:26:00.000-08:00

Pantone recently announced that the 2011 color of the year is Honeysuckle. “In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®.

Although I agree that the Honeysuckle shade is gorgeous and definitely uplifting I think that if any color should get some recognition it's aqua. Or turquoise. Or teal. Or any hue along the blue/green scale of color! The reason I like it so much? It's versatility! I can't think of a single color that DOESN'T go with it!

Below are some great examples of rooms that all use a shade of aqua paired with another color. As you can see from boy's rooms to girl's rooms to gender neutral - aqua works for them all!

Images courtesy of Project Nursery, Baby's Dream, Russell & Mackenna, Simplified Bee

Proud Picassos!

2011-01-27T06:36:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but as soon as my kids started taking part in activities outside the house my pile of arts and crafts masterpieces started really stacking up! Not even school-aged yet and I've got enough paintings, drawings and I-don't-know-whats to open up a gallery!

At first it's nice but soon you find yourself feeling a little guilty as some of them "accidentally" find their way into the recycling bin or garbage. Among the daily projects there are always the select few that find a place in your heart, too special to get rid of and let's face it - nothing brings a beaming smile to a child's face better than when you proudly display their artwork for all to see.

The fridge gets cluttered, magnets slide under the strain of glitter glue and pipe cleaners and soon you're picking up torn and tattered artwork off the floor on a daily basis.

Want a better, more creative way to show off all these special pieces? I've come up with a new line of very cute artwork holders to do just that! From octopus and seahorses to owls and squirrels there's sure to be something to please every little artist!

Each artwork holder comes with five feet of twine and eight clothes pins for clipping the artwork to. Sold individually or in sets of three you can stick with a theme or mix and match to get something for everyone!

Great for displaying photographs, greeting cards and notes you can also use the holders for hanging up hats and mittens and for drying artwork as well! The options are never ending!

Oh, and I forgot to mention the best part! These are IN STOCK items which means no long turn around times when you order! Order yours now!

Artwork Holders

Just saved myself A LOT of work!

2010-12-15T16:19:00.000-08:00

Covering over a full wall mural. It can be done. It's a lot of work! To cover the Finding Nemo mural in my daughter's room I had this image of me in grubby clothes wearing a dust mask and eye protection, room cleared out, furniture covered - dust EVERYWHERE while I sanded the paint down to a smooth finish. It's winter. It's Canada. It's cold here! Having a window open while I do it means I need to add gloves and a toque to the image!

An entire weekend's work? Maybe. If I'm going to do wainscoting around the bottom half of the walls then that will cover the bottom half of the mural, all I need to worry about is the top half. Today I had a light bulb idea! I started thinking along the lines of wallpaper. But, as usual I had an image in my head and couldn't seem to find what I wanted online. Then I found this from Sears:

Textured, PAINTABLE wallpaper! It's perfect! IT won't be overpowering. No crazy pattern in a bunch of colors, just simple, classic and best of all! I can just put it right over the mural and not have to worry about any ridges from paint! I will paint it the same color as the rest of the room and voila! I just love the damask pattern, too!

Best of all - its very reasonably priced!

Not having to worry about the mural is what is really going to give me the motivation to start this room!

Has you every used a similar product? Do you like it?

Wainscoting - Yea or Nay?

2010-12-12T07:27:00.001-08:00

Photo courtesy of Project Nursery

I'm in the process of coming up with a design for my daughter's room renovation and I'm contemplating putting up wainscoting. I love the look of it and can imagine it well with the design I have envisioned but I'm a little hesitant when it comes to function.

Will it make it difficult when it comes to furniture placement or any type of wall hangings? ie. growth chart, hair bow holder ect. Is it too limiting??

Do you have wainscoting in any rooms? Do you like it? Did you put it up yourself? Thoughts? Opinions? Suggestions?

I appreciate the feedback!

$100 Gift Certificate Giveaway!

2010-12-10T07:20:00.000-08:00

**COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED FOR THE DRAW**
I will take some time to enter everyone in and then I will contact the winner privately before announcing who they are.
Good luck!

_____________________________________________________________

I was originally going to just do a random draw off of my Bouncing Off The Walls Facebook Page, but as of December 1st, 2010, Facebook changed some of their promotional guidelines so I can no longer do it that way.

No big deal! I can roll with the punches! We'll do the draw here instead! So, HOW is it going to happen you ask? If you're reading this then you already know I posted the link to this blog on my Facebook Page. The next step? Simply comment below! I will do the draw from those that comment. Simple as that!

Now, for the bonus entries that I mentioned for those who's friends commented on the wall that they were sent by you - I recorded your names and how many times you were mentioned so you will still get your bonus entries!

From the time we reach 2,000 *LIKES* I will keep this blog post up for 5 days following and do the draw then. Hopefully that will give everyone sufficient time to see that it's here and be able to make their way over and comment.

If you have any questions you can email me directly: kristina@bouncingoffthewalls.ca

Good luck and thanks to all of you for your amazing support!

***PLEASE MAKE SURE IF YOU COMMENT AS "ANONYMOUS THAT YOU PUT YOUR NAME SOMEWHERE IN THE COMMENT SO I KNOW WHO YOU ARE IF YOU WIN!***

Time for a change!

2010-12-08T10:33:00.001-08:00

People say to me all the time, "your kids must have the most fantastic rooms!" It's obvious why one would think such a thing but the reality brings back the old saying, "the cobbler's kids have no shoes."

Although I have spent time on their rooms and they both have wall letters spelling their names and a few other various items I've painted I've never really taken the time to really plan them and make them magazine worthy! Time is ALWAYS an issue for me!

My son who is the oldest did get a new "big boy" room when his little sister came along but it still needs a few finishing pieces that I just never get around to. But, for the most part, his room is pretty awesome and he does like to show it off.

Now, my poor daughter. That is what sparked this blog post! Her room was never made for her. It was my old office turned nursery. Before kids when I was still starting out in my mural business I painted a Finding Nemo mural on the wall in my office. When I got pregnant for the first time we didn't find out what we were having so we left the mural and turned the room into a nursery with gender-neutral colouring to match the Nemo theme.

My kids are only 19 months apart so my son wasn't long in the Nemo room before it was time for him to move. Again, we didn't find out what we were having and kept the fish for baby number two!

Well, my daughter is now 2 1/2 and it's time for a change! Nemo and his friends have got to go and we need to change this space into something a little more girlie, a little more "Devyn!" The letters I painted for her, although nice, were painted solely to match the colors in the room. Her growth chart I did because I needed a girl theme growth chart for a trade show! I did have a bow holder for her room but, bad mommy, I sold it to save myself time saying I would make her a new one soon.

So, I'm going to start from scratch! Get rid of the mural. Repaint. Begin with a blank canvas and document it here to share with you! (You'll all help hold me accountable for finishing!)

Here's a peak at the Before (right now) pictures:

I know what you're thinking! What kid wouldn't LOVE this room, right? And she does like it. But, It's been the same way for 6 years and I really do want to make a room just for her.

To give you a little sneak peak into the direction I'm headed, I bought these beautiful water colour prints from This Little Piggy Prints on Etsy and they are what we're starting with. The rest of the room will come together based on these.

Can't wait to get started!

Patchy Patch

2010-11-15T12:21:00.000-08:00

My son whojust turned 4 years old was diagnosed with extreme farsightedness and amblyopia right around his third birthday. In my son's case, his vision was so different in each eye that his brain started to shut one, weaker eye, in his case his right eye, down. As a result, the eye starts to turn in from not being used. With his glasses on you don't notice it as much but with his glasses off it's quite bad!

Now the process to correct this is not that easy! Surgery to straighten it at this stage would only be temporary and pointless because without the vision being corrected the eye would just revert back to not being used. So, before any surgery can be done we have to improve the vision. How do we do that? Well, aside from the obvious - glasses, we have to patch the stronger eye to make the weaker one work harder. By patching the "good" eye, the "bad" eye is forced into use. Our end goal is to make the eyes even out in vision so we can do surgery to correct the weakened muscle.

Well, this all sounds so easy. Unless you're 3 going on 4 and you don't want to wear a patch! In our case it was quite a battle. We bribed, we bargained, we threatened, we tried reason (ya, right!), we played pirates, we all wore patches too - everything we could think of to no avail! I couldn't blame him. Who wants to walk around using only one eye? But, it had to be done. We were at a point where the patching just wasn't going well so the doctor prescribed Atropine. Atropine is an eye drop that will essentially blur the vision in the good eye, taking away the need for a patch. Well, I wished we'd tried it sooner.

On mention of putting a drop in and my son has now been wearing his patch on a regular basis for about 6 months! He even asks for it some days!

Now that you know the back story - here's the real reason for my post; I was snooping around and found this wonderful Etsy shop filled with hand made dolls for kids. What's so great about them? They have glasses! AND patches! If there's one thing I've learned through this whole process is that even young kids want to know they aren't alone in their battles. To have a doll with a patch just like them is WONDERFUL!

Shannon's shop is called Warm Sugar and she's based out of Peoria, Illinois. THANK YOU , Shannon for making such wonderful creations! These dolls got me thinking about other famous be speckled characters. Well, there's not a lot of them that aren't classified as a bit "nerdy!" Come on Disney! Give us a Princess or hero with glasses!

Shop Local!

2010-11-13T18:37:00.001-08:00

The Christmas season is upon us and with it brings lists of gifts to buy for families and friends. Coming up with ideas for WHAT to buy someone can be tricky, but how about WHERE you buy it?
How much of your shopping is done locally? Just a few last minute items? Where do you do the bulk of your shopping?

According to Michael H. Shuman, author of Going Local, "Going local does not mean walling off the outside world. It means nurturing locally owned businesses which use local resources sustainably, employ local workers at decent wages and serve primarily local consumers. It means becoming more self-sufficient and less dependent on imports. Control moves from the boardrooms of distant corporations and back into the community where it belongs."

Being a small business owner I'm perhaps a bit biased, but I'll give you ten reasons WHY you should be shopping local and keeping your business where you live!

Local business owners will invest more in your community. Generally, they live in the community themselves therefore having more interest in the welfare and future of the community. They'll contribute to sports teams, donate to charity events and take part in activities.
The customer service is better. Period. Because they care about the community they care how you feel when you walk out the door. Their business is a reflection of themselves and as they are highly likely to come face to face with their customers while they're out and about they are less likely to be rude or brush you off. They build relationships with their customers. They get to know you personally, helping you find what you need, ordering things in or calling you to let you know about specials, sales etc or returning items that are broken or don't work.
They provide local jobs. Most local businesses will hire within the community first.
It helps our environment! If you shop local you can walk, not drive to shop and I don't have to tell you the impact that can make! Saving gas money and mileage on your vehicle, congestion and pollution all at the same time!
You're keeping your money within the community when you shop local. Local businesses will often purchase from other local businesses and service providers themselves which helps grow other businesses.
They offer unique choices. Smaller businesses often have a great selection of unique items that you can't find elsewhere, are hand made or are exclusive to them. When you're looking for just the right gift for someone that seems like it was made especially for them then buying local might be your best bet!
Competitive pricing. It's a common misconception that smaller businesses are more expensive but this is not always the case. A lot of brand items have suggested retail prices that most will adhere to which means businesses that carry those items will have them priced the same as the "big guys." When you factor in the saved gas money and customer service you have to wonder why you'd buy from the "big guys!"
Quality! More unique, local items are often better made and come with great warranties or refund/exchange policies that you may not find elsewhere.
Put your taxes to good use.Local businesses in neighborhoods need comparatively less infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering the community.
Character of the community. A lot of smaller communities have specific characteristics that make them unique. Local business owners are usually more interested in maintaining that character.

So before you set out to do you shopping this Christmas, or any time of year for that matter, take a good look at the stores that are right at your door step and see how much you can do without even leaving town!

Clean up! Clean up! Everybody Clean Up!

2010-10-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

Organizing your young child’s room is a lot of fun…beautiful colors, bold patterns, and cute little bins in all shapes and sizes. Keeping it in order as they navigate their way through changes in clothing and toys is another matter altogether! Before you jump into transforming your little one’s room and spend a load of cash, take a look at these simple solutions to create storage that can be easily maintained and “grows with your child”.

Store books where kids can easily access them, such as under a bench seat in cubbies or on a bookshelf that can also hold small baskets for small items.
A good storage system inside the closet will make good use of the vertical space and eliminate the need for dressers. Add another hanging rod to maximize the space for those itty-bitty clothes.
Label bins and baskets to make finding and cleaning up toys a breeze. Print pictures of the contents for the little ones.
Drawer dividers keep little clothes organized into categories, and prevent those tiny tights from getting lost in a mound of sweaters.
Over the door shoe organizers are a great storage option for anything but shoes. Toys, hats, small books, socks, undies, and stuffies are perfect candidates.
Hanging canvas sweater organizers are an inexpensive way to create shelves for clothing or accessories. Try labeling each of the 5 cubbies with the days of the week for early school goers. Having their outfits pre-set for the week could save many morning meltdowns on what to where!
An under the bed storage bin works great for all the craft projects your child brings home from school or seasonal clothing.
Modular units with canvas storage bins are the perfect storage solution for the bottom half of any closet or in the room itself.

My personal favorites mentioned above are the “shoe organizers” and the “modular units”. How you choose to utilize these TWO FAVS is up to you…the possibilities are endless!

The Mini Stash by Simply Stashed

The Cube Organizer by Martha Stewart at Home Depot

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About the Author

Sylvia Daoust is the owner of Niche Designs Inc., a company focused on creating streamlined homes and small businesses. We provide organizing solutions to fit your needs and your budget…with consistent support every step of the way.

Visit http://www.nichedesignsinc.com for access to FREE “Sorting Secrets” and learn how you can stay on top of everything.

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Calm. Fresh. Not Pink!

2010-10-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

Lavender is a color that can be paired well with so many other colors, each giving it such a different look. This fall, paired with grey, lavender has become a popular trend for a more sophisticated nursery! If done right this is a color combination that can last through infancy right on up to teen!

I did a little shopping around and found some gorgeous things!

Crib Bedding by Bananafish

Lavender Chair by Serena & Lily

Dresser by Bratt Decor

Chandelier from The Bella Cottage. Clock from The Frog & Princess. Lampshade from Rosenberry Rooms.

Owl pillow doll from DwellDeep.

3 Berry Tissue Poms by Prosttothehost.

Heather Bloom pillow from Rosenberry Rooms.I couldn't find the proper source for this silver jewelry box but I couldn't leave it out - especially since they took the time to engrave my name on it!

Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto...

2010-10-24T21:56:00.001-07:00

Remember this?

This picture was taken back in the summer when our long awaited Robot arrived. In that box is our future. Our helper. Our LIFE-SAVER! That box contained our CNC machine. CNC stands for computer numeric control. To put it in layman's terms - it cuts letters. For me. All by itself!

Ok, it doesn't JUST cut letters but at this point in time that is my main focus! On average I cut approximately 700 - 800 letters a month. Right now I do each and every letter by hand! So, when you combine that with hand painting them all you can see why an order can take as long as it does.

Some may ask why eliminate the "hand cut" aspect of things? Well, simply - so we can not only continue to produce high-quality, original products, but we will be able to produce them in a more timely matter meeting the needs of those who don't want to wait 6 - 8 weeks for an order.

We are also in the process of developing a wholesale program so we can put some of our wonderful products on the shelves of stores all over the world.

Lastly, I HAVE SO MANY IDEAS! Things I can't do on my trusty scroll saw that only has a 16" clearance! Think shaped growth charts, fancy headboards, extra large letters and so much more! The capabilities of this robot are pretty limitless and we are very excited for our maiden voyage.

Our new CNC isn't nameless. His name is Babadoo. So named by our children stemming from a phrase in a book they have that says, "this machine goes quickly from job to job." My son couldn't say job to job correctly so he used to say, "goes quickly bobadoo." Very fitting indeed!

Here is Babadoo today. He's ALMOST ready to go! It has been a really long process to assemble him. Think Ikea on steroids! Bags and bags of nuts and bolts and an instruction binder about 8 inches thick! He now just needs his dust collection system which is on the way and then all the computer stuff. Programing everything will be a very daunting, time consuming task but in the end it will be so worth it!

I'm excited to share with your our journey into robot land and I will be sure to keep you all posted as we get ready to hit the "on" switch!

Mmmm. Cake!

2010-10-08T23:06:00.000-07:00

Betcha didn't know I used to be a cake decorator! Yup! I started out painting on Dairy Queen ice cream cakes when I was 17 and it was my profession for the next 10 years. I worked in grocery store bakeries and even a high-end cake shop. At one time being a cake artist was what I thought I wanted to do with my life, but working with food wasn't on my list of things I really liked to do! I liked the decorating; icing was a form of paint for me - hated the baking and prep work before hand!

Now, the only cakes I decorate are for my own kids. It's something I look forward to with each birthday and now that they're getting old enough to tell me what they want I usually know what I'm doing far in advance!

Since May of this year my son has been telling me he wants a police car cake for his next birthday. Well, his next birthday is finally days away and his big birthday party is this Sunday. I thought I'd give you a little glimpse at my police car creation from start to finish and hopefully make you think a little bit outside the pan when it comes to cake decorating! So, here's Reid's 4th birthday police car cake step by step!

I've never been much of a fan of the shaped cake pans. Too small, too main stream, too expensive! Who needs a special pan anyway? Watch how I make a police car out of two, 9x13 slab cakes!

**Editing to add that I ALWAYS work with frozen cake! It makes cutting so much easier and way less crumbs!**

I start with this:
Two slabs side by side on a board that admittedly I cut a bit too small for what I was about to do!

I looked online for a cartoon style police car that I liked and used it as my guide. With white icing I draw a rough outline of the police car, not worrying about keeping within the constrains of the cake:

Now you're probably scratching your head and wondering how I go from here! Well, I use a small serrated knife and cut out around my outline. Carefully removing the extra cake pieces and setting them aside.

Now I have to add onto the parts that aren't complete such as the bottom of the tires and the front of the car. Using the pieces I cut away, I hold them in place where I need to add cake. Again, I use the white icing and draw the missing pieces.

You should have enough cake scraps to add the remaining parts unless you went ridiculously too large with your original drawing in which case, if you've already cut the cake, I can't help you!

Again, I use my knife and cut away the areas that aren't part of the car. Using my icing like glue, I cover the joining edges then press them firmly together.

Do this for all the pieces and in the end you should have your shape! ( Like I said, I cut my board a little too small, but oh well!)

I clean up my board and get rid of the crumbs and the rest is all just painting! Using a round decorator tip I fill in my colors where I want them.

Now, this is a KEY piece of equipment that anyone decorating a cake should have in my opinion! A small pallet knife! With the angle it has it makes smoothing icing so much easier! After I fill in a section with icing I use my pallet knife to smooth it.

I continue doing this for each section and color until I have the police car done. If you want to go as far as the highlights, I do those by dipping my pallet knife into the white icing and just lightly smearing/smoothing it on. Like I said, icing is like paint. Lots of room to get creative and lots of forgiveness if you make a mistake!

Now you're probably wondering about those exposed edges? Myself, I always end up with a bunch of leftover icing in all the colors I used for my cake. So, I throw them all together into one container and fill up an icing bag. I didn't even mix them! You can use a star tip or a round tip for this (a larger size works best)and in an up and down zig zag motion cover the sides. Easy to do, fills it in and you don't have to worry about trying to smooth it all out! I like it because it uses up all my left over icing!

Lastly, you of course want to put an inscription on there but who wants to write on top of a piece of artwork? I write right on the board! The best part? If you make a mistake you can just wipe if off and start again!

Here's my finished cake! Can't wait to see my son's face when I bring it out on Sunday!

All In The Family

2010-09-20T14:21:00.000-07:00

My almost 4-year-old son asked me the other day if he could paint some letters like me. So, I got together some extra letters, some paint and a brush and let him have at it!

Whenever he watches me paint he asks who the letters are for so of course, he wanted to know who his letters were for to which I replied, "oh, a little boy like you." "I think he's going to like these." he said. He concentrated very hard on his tasks and who knows? Maybe one day he'll be right along side me painting up some real orders!

MOM! Where's my favorite hair clip??

2010-08-30T20:58:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, September. Back to school time. New clothes, new shoes, new back packs and new hair accessories! These days you can find some pretty amazing hair bows, clippies, korkers and other cool hair accessories to match any outfit or hair type.

I was recently introduced to Apple Pie Accessories, a fellow Alberta, mom-run business started by Sabrina. At Apple Pie Accessories you will find high quality Hair Sassies which are alligator clips adorned with gross grain ribbon or in the case of Mbellished Hair Sassies some extra bling is added for that extra special touch. Sabrina gives you the option of adding a no-slip grip for extra fine hair which is something I know all about!

But what to do with all those Sassies?? Here at Bouncing Off The Walls we have created our own line of custom designed and hand painted hair bow holders that are second to none. I can guarantee you will not find anything like them out there! All of our hair bow holders can be completely customized to go with any theme, decor or colors. They hang on the wall and have plenty of ribbon from which to attach all those hair accessories.

For the month of September Bouncing Off The Walls has teamed up with Apple Pie Accessories and with every purchase of a hair bow holder you will receive a FREE set of Hair Sassies! So if you've been thinking about purchasing a hair bow holder then now is the time! What a great gift idea!

This offer expires October 1, 2010. Hair Sassie colors/designs will be randomly chosen and shipped with the bow holder.

A Little Nostalgia

2010-07-08T23:05:00.000-07:00

Inspired by a discussion about nursery decor in the 1970's and 1980's I decided to do a little digging and found someone I had forgotten all about! I'm sure that I am dating myself by sharing with you this little girl, but if you're eh um.....young? like me then you'll remember her too!

Holly Hobby was actually born in 1944 and is a REAL person! She is an American writer and illustrator who wrote the Toot And Puddle books that are now a popular children's show and also the creator of the fictional character that bears her own name. Born Denise Holly Ulinskas, she married Douglas Hobbie in 1964.

In the early 1970s, Hobbie sold distinctive artwork of a cat-loving, rag dress-wearing little girl in a giant bonnet to American Greetings. This series of illustrations became immensely popular and her originally nameless character became known as "Holly Hobbie".

I honestly have to say that I haven't heard even one mention of Holly Hobbie in YEARS! What a wonderful theme to build a girl's bedroom or nursery around! Classic, soft and uber girly Holly would make any little girl happy regardless of what era she's born in.

Once again I turned to Etsy first for my search in Holly Hobbie items as it is a great source for vintage items. Sure enough I was not left disappointed!

This vintage twin sized sheet from My Vintage Whimsy could be made to fit a crib or toddler bed! You could also use it as fabric to create throw pillows or wall art!
Love this pitcher! How gorgeous would it be sitting on the dresser atop a dainty lace doily?

Pitcher courtesy of Cales Van Vintage Finds

Of course, the room wouldn't be complete without Miss Holly herself sitting on a shelf or cabinet somewhere!

Holly Hobby Doll found at REdesignkc

With so many colors in her dress it's easy to pick a favorite and make the room any one you wish! Tea sets, kittens, bonnets and patchwork! A great theme to be able to add your own twist to. So if you're looking for ideas for a girl's room or nursery and you'd like to stay away from the main stream - why not go vintage and think about things from your own childhood that hold a place in your heart?

Next up? Raggedy Ann, of course!

There's No Such Thing As A Perfect Parent!

2010-06-23T18:55:00.001-07:00

If you are ever feeling like you are less than the perfect parent, take comfort that even in nature Moms mess up!

Mommy Fair 2010

2010-06-06T17:52:00.000-07:00

If you're in the Calgary area and looking for something to do with the family this weekend then I invite you to come down and meet me at the Entrepreneurial Moms International Mommy Fair on Saturday!

The free 2010 mom entrepreneur trade show event offers attendees a chance to shop among dozens of local mom-run businesses that will be showcasing their products and services. It will be held Saturday, June 12th from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Valleyview Presbyterian Church in Calgary. Local entrepreneurial moms will provide information on the various products and services offered. The Entrepreneurial Moms trade show event will have food, wine tasting and other beverages for the whole family. Admission is free and childcare will be available from 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM.

"Our members are excited to showcase their products and services to the public. Buying from mom-run businesses encourages the entrepreneurial spirit of mothers that are business minded while at the same time allowing them to provide the nurturing support their children need. Our event offers fun for the whole family so that both kids and parents will enjoy every minute," said Christie Schultz, Founder and CEO of Entrepreneurial Moms International (http://www.entrepreneurialmoms.org/)

Kids will also be able to take part in a bouncy castle, face painting, and free trial classes for dance and karate. The dance free trial class will take place from 12:15 - 12:35 PM, and the karate class will go on from 12:40 - 1:00 PM. Valleyview Presbyterian Church is located at 7655 26th Ave SW in Calgary, AB which is just across the street from the new Springbank Hill playground. Attendees are encouraged to stick around after the Mommy Fair for a BBQ and Playground Grand Opening presented by the community of Springbank Hill being held from 2:00 - 5:00 PM. The event will have bouncy castles, hamburgers and hotdogs and games. Attendees are encouraged to bring a side dish to share. For more information visit www.springbankhill.org.

Happy Birthday!

2010-05-21T19:47:00.001-07:00

My beautiful girl is turning two tomorrow! Where does the time go?

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!

Want A Chance to Win $800 in Product?

2010-05-13T16:40:00.000-07:00

If you have kids or know kids then this is cause worth supporting!

On Sunday, June 13, 2010, thousands of Canadians will walk at
twelve walk sites across Canada for the 7th Annual
Walmart Walk For Miracles™.
It will be a fun, festive day of activities and entertainment
for the whole family.

Bouncing Off The Walls is happy to support Team Angels Among Us who are walking for Jayce Knowler, a 2-year-old boy who suffers from severe allergies to so many things the list would leave your jaw on the floor! From now until June 12, 2010 we will be selling raffle tickets for $20. Each ticket will give you one chance to win the prize package worth $800! What's included in the package?

1 Toy Box
Six 10" Letters
1 Wooden growth chart
1 Wastebasket
1 Tissue Box
1 Single Switch Plate

ALL hand painted in a design of your choice! To purchase your raffle ticket please click here.

To support the Knowler family or make a cash donation click here.

From the bottom of my heart I thank you for all your support!

May Madness Sale!

2010-05-04T19:10:00.000-07:00

Over 70 shops from the Etsy Alberta Street Team are participating in a team May Madness sale from Saturday May 1 - Friday May 7, 2010. Below you'll find a list of shops by category!

Don't miss out on some amazing deals from some fantastic shops. It's a great time to pick up an item for a loved one, a friend or even yourself.

Accessories
www.aosta.etsy.com 30% off everything.
www.asecondtime.etsy.com 10% plus free worldwide shipping.
www.appleblossom21.etsy.com 25% off everything.
www.baloo.etsy.com Free shipping to US and Canada for all accessories.
www.belladolceboutique.etsy.com 20% off everything excluding shipping.
www.DollfaceDeVille.etsy.com 10% off everything excluding shipping.
www.FootprintDesigns.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.maceme.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.offthehooks.etsy.com 10% off- excludes custom orders, and gift certificates.
www.silversistersstudio.etsy.com 40% off all hair accessories. Free shipping on everything else.
www.thefrenchmouse.etsy.com 10% off everything.

Art
www.bellissimadesigns.etsy.com 15% off everything. Excludes shipping.
www.bluefuze.etsy.com 20% off everything (excluding shipping).
www.calzephyr.etsy.com Your choice of free magnet with order.
http://www.taibossigai.etsy.com/ 25% off all paintings in my shop.

Bags And Purses
www.impedimenta.etsy.com 15% off everything plus free shipping on jewelry.
www.MookieDesigns.etsy.com Buy any item, get a second at half off - no limits.
www.nanabrowns.etsy.com 15% off (custom orders excluded).

Bath & Body
www.carvelcountrysoaps.etsy.com 15% off storewide.
www.MisticalAcScents.etsy.com 10% off everything.

Candles
www.solascandles.etsy.com 20% off everything.

Children
www.Barefootclips.etsy.com Free shipping worldwide.
www.Barefoottams.etsy.com Free shipping worldwide.
www.FPWear.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.GollyGeeBaby.etsy.com Free shipping to Canada & USA.
www.GentleHug.etsy.com 10% of all ready to ship items.
www.kidsloveletters.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.littlejumpingbeans.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.Mamaswoodshop.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.my3littlemonkeys.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.myhappyhome.etsy.com 20% off everything.
www.nanabrowns.etsy.com 15% off (custom orders excluded).
www.strandeddesigns.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.twostraycats.etsy.com 20% off (excluding custom orders, gift certificates and EFA creations).

Clothing
www.luckylucystyle.etsy.com 10% off everything.

Crochet
http://www.amandafenniak.etsy.com/ 10% off everything.
www.FPWear.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.happylittletreasures.etsy.com Free custom headband with purchase.
www.maybubbles26.etsy.com 20% off everything.
www.offthehooks.etsy.com 10% off- excludes custom orders, gift certificates, items already on sale.

Glass
www.glasscircus.etsy.com 15% off everything – excluding shipping.

Holiday
www.snowmancollector.etsy.com 10% off everything.

Housewares
www.sybillinart.etsy.com 10% off everything + some items with free shipping.
www.GentleHug.etsy.com 10% of all ready to ship items.
www.juliechristie.etsy.com Free shipping.
www.my3littlemonkeys.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.myhappyhome.etsy.com 20% off everything.
www.twostraycats.etsy.com 20% off (excludes custom orders, gift certificates, EFA creations)

Jewelry
www.AWillowsNest.etsy.com $20 gift certificate with purchase.
www.cindylouwho2.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.dearange.etsy.com 15% off all jewelry.
www.frogprincessdesigns.etsy.com 15% off everything before shipping.
www.GenuineArticle.etsy.com 25% off everything excluding shipping
www.HappyBead.etsy.com 20% off on select items.
www.impedimenta.etsy.com 15% off everything plus free shipping on jewelry.
www.jewelledtrellis.etsy.com 20% off everything.
www.jewelrybyirene.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.juliechristie.etsy.com Free shipping.
www.kabukikreations.etsy.com Free shipping.
www.MookieDesigns.etsy.com Buy any item, get a second at half off - no limits.
www.prairiedustinc.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.sandijagt.etsy.com 20% off everything
www.sheids.etsy.com 10% off storewide before shipping.
www.sixbabygirls.etsy.com 20% off everything
www.splurge.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.SunsetBeads106.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.theblackstarboutique.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.themegshop.etsy.com 20% off everything.

Knitting
www.blockheaters.etsy.com Free shipping.
www.offthehooks.etsy.com 10% off- excludes custom orders and gift certificates.
www.knittymaxx.etsy.com 10% off.
www.maybubbles26.etsy.com 20% off everything.

Paper Goods
www.craftedbylindy.etsy.com 10% off everything excluding shipping.
www.craftrx.etsy.com Buy 4 cards get 1 free.
www.FPWear.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.hannahcherie.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.HornCatCreations.etsy.com Free shipping.
www.MoLStationery.etsy.com 20% off everything.
www.mygrandpaspen.etsy.com 20% off item price.
www.sushipapercraft.etsy.com 15% off everything.

Pets
www.furrypawsboutique.etsy.com Buy two collars get one free.

Supplies
www.42things.etsy.com 10% off everything.
www.baloo.etsy.com 30% off all fleeces and fiber.
www.claychicks.etsy.com Free shipping.
www.squirrelstock.etsy.com 15% off everything.
www.tooaquarius.etsy.com Free shipping.

Vintage
http://www.bontonvintage.etsy.com/ 15% off everything.
http://www.mychildhooddolls.etsy.com%20sale/Sale section in shop.
www.tumbleweedcottage.etsy.com Sale section in shop.

Weddings
http://www.thefrenchmouse.etsy.com/ 10% off everything.

Design Your Own Toy Box Winners!

2010-05-01T18:46:00.001-07:00

It was stiff competition as there were so many fabulous designs entered in the Design Your Own Toy Box Contest, but after three weeks of voting we have our winners! In first place, winning the grand prize of their very own design hand painted onto a toy box valued at $500, is Nicole with her entry titled "A Mother's Love." Congratulations Nicole!

The second place winner who will receive a $50.00 gift certificate for Bouncing Off The Walls is Chantelle with her design titled "The Next Italian Soccer Star." Congratulations, Chantelle!

There were so many great designs I know it was hard to pick a favorite! Thank you everyone who participated and everyone who voted. I will post pictures of the winning toy box when it is completed!

No MDF here!

2010-04-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

Medium density fiberboard, or MDF, is a composite wood product similar to particle board. It's made out of wood waste fibers glued together with resin, heat, and pressure. MDF is appropriate for many applications, from cabinetry to molding, because it is smooth, uniform, and won't warp.

MDF has a nice, smooth finish. It cuts great and the paint goes on beautifully. It's cheaper to buy. So why wouldn't I use it over wood?

In all fibreboards such as MDF, formaldehyde resins are used to bond together the constituent parts. This is usually urea formaldehyde, but some fibreboard including exterior or marine quality board will use stronger glues such as phenol formaldehyde.

Even at a low levels, exposure to formaldehyde though inhalation can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat and mucous membrane. Formaldehyde can also affect the skin, leading to dermatitis, and the respiratory system causing asthma and rhinitis. The International Agency for Research on
Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, quoted evidence that even short term exposure to formaldehyde could cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat.

The IARC's findings also stated that wood dust is a carcinogen' (cancer causing) and that 'formaldehyde is probably carcinogenic to humans'. IARC was also concerned about the reproductive hazards of formaldehyde'.

Although the greatest risks are in the cutting and sanding of MDF, the formaldehyde is still known to seep out through it over time, even when it's painted.

Yep! I'll stick with wood, thanks! I think you will also appreciate knowing the products you buy from me are safe for you and your family!

New Hair Bow Holders

2010-04-18T09:44:00.000-07:00

Our hair bow holders are becoming such a popular item I thought some new designs were in order. From funky flowers and lady bugs to the currently popular owl I guarantee you won't find others out there quite like these! They are drawn free hand then cut and painted by hand making them very unique!

Stay tuned for more designs to follow! Some are cut; they just aren't painted yet!

Two Stray Cats

2010-04-13T19:57:00.000-07:00

Bouncing Off The Walls is pleased to announce that we will now be carrying gorgeous designer pillow covers and plush toys from Two Stray Cats out of Alberta, Canada!

Two Stray Cats is a shop owned and operated by Lily who before moving to Canada worked full-time as an Interior Designer in New Zealand specializing in soft furnishings and colour consultancy. With a love for textiles, colours, patterns as well as the way the fabric feels she brings a fun, whimsical touch to all her items!

We will be carrying a variety of pillow covers and plush toys made of the highest quality. I urge you to check back often as the designs will change!

If you are interested in having custom pillows or creations made in the fabrics and designs of your choice please just let us know ~ We would love to help to bring your vision to life.

Shopping Spree

2010-03-31T19:44:00.000-07:00

I discovered Etsy about a year ago. Maybe I shouldn't share it because if you've never been there I may get you hooked and you'll be mad at me! Etsy is a marketplace for artists and crafters from all over the world to sell their wares. There is a wide range of items from artwork to clothing to jewelry to.....well, some really odd things, too! I wanted to share with you some of the cool things I've found that would go great in kids rooms or nurseries. If you are looking for those extra little, unique items to tie the room together then Etsy just might be your place to look!

These big and beautiful pom poms by PomLove are my latest discovery and will be a new addition in my daughter's room! Tissue paper pom poms in various sizes to hang from the ceiling add a punch of color and texture to any room. Sold individually or in sets the prices make decision making easy!

How about this mobile by Just Peachy By Georgia? This whimsical mobile of feathered friends can be custom designed to suit your color needs and is sure to be a focal point!

Ok, I've seen some pretty funky step stools over the years, but the ones I found in Artompotamus' shop take the cake! Hand crafted out of pine and hand painted they are completely unique! Better make sure to get more than one if you have multiple children as I'm sure they'll be fighting over this one!

Lastly, Maple Shade Kids has long since been a favorite shop of mine. This eco friendly store makes gorgeous wooden peg hooks and collage art. The hardest part is deciding what I like best!So if you have a minute, check Etsy out. You may be surprised by what you find! But don't blame me if you spend all of your paycheck!

Win A Toy Box

2010-03-20T06:58:00.000-07:00

We're giving away a hand painted toy box worth $500 to one lucky winner. All you have to do is design it! You don't have to be an artist, just be able to put down your ideas on paper. From now until April 14th we will be accepting entries for the Design Your Own Toy Box contest. Starting April 15th and running through until April 30th the public will vote on which design they like the best. The winner will receive the Grand Prize of a Toy Box painted with their idea!

Hand crafted specifically for Bouncing Off The Walls our toy boxes are 34″×20″×20″ just the perfect size for even large toys! Featuring anti-slam hinges to protect little fingers and an air space to prevent suffocation our toy boxes are top of the line!

A second place prize of a $50 gift certificate will be awarded to the design with the second highest number of votes.

So how do you enter? Simply click here and you will be taken to the contest page. Draw up your design, add some colour if you like and make sure you upload it when you enter. If you need some help getting started here's a toy box template to help you out!

*please note that contest is only open to Canadian residents 18 years of age or older excluding Quebec. For full contest rules click here.

Room To Grow

2010-03-05T12:59:00.000-08:00

Maybe you're expecting, just had a baby or you have a toddler moving to a "big kid room." Whatever the occasion your mind has started to think about children's room design. And what fun it is to design a kid's room! If your house is anything like mine, the kids have newer furniture than you, they have nicer bedding than you and they're room is "complete" while yours sits ignored; a work in progress in need of a good dusting!

So where do you start first when designing a child's room or nursery? The internet is a great resource for ideas and inspiration! Narrowing it down and actually picking ONE idea can be tricky! If your child is old enough, chances are they're going to want some input too!

Here are a few things you should keep in mind before you start planning. Do something that will grow with your child. Matching that very cute and cuddly crib bedding you chose is great, but will it last? If it's your first child then doing a baby nursery can work out great if you plan to move each child to a different room, keeping the nursery for each susequent baby. Be careful with personalized items being too babyish. Ask yourself, "will this still work when the baby is three? Five? Seven?" Unless of course, you have the time, desire and money to redo a room every few years!

Try and stay away from character rooms. For those with toddlers or older children it's easy to fall into this trap. Young children become obssessed sometimes with their favorite movie or book character and want everything they see with that character's face on it. When you ask your child what they would like in their room their first response may be "McQueen!", "Dora!" but how long will that phase last? If your children are anything like mine it will last until the next big movie they see! Also, characters come with copyright issues. Keep that in mind if you want to hire a muralist or someone to create an item for you. Don't be surprised if they turn you down.

Put a twist on some classic ideas! With a little creativity it's amazing what you can come up with! My son is into everything your typical boy would be into. Mainly, sports and anything that runs with an engine! I didn't want to just do a bunch of things with cars, planes and baseballs on it so I tried to think how I could take his likes and work them into something that was still classy, non-babyish and would last him for years to come. With that in mind, we did a mural featuring an old-fashioned steam train with old-fashioned baseball players playing in a field along side it. In the sky is an old-fashioned bi-plane. The colors are all very subtle and the style borders on realistic.

Think about adding family heirlooms or things that have sentimental value. I've seen some absolutely gorgeous rooms come together based on one little piece or trinket that was passed down from someone in the family. Imagine what you could do with an old baseball glove that belonged to your grandfather or a mirror that was once in your great-aunt's home? This teddy bear room came together with the help of teddy bears collected by mom and heirloom furniture passed down from Grandma!

Also try and think about the function of the room. Storage is crucial for most people as well as a place for reading or playing. Think not only about the theme, but how the room will be used.

Lastly, your imagination is your strongest tool! Look around you and draw inspiration from things around you. You never know where a great idea might come from!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-03T15:37:00.001-08:00

Design and WIN your own toy box!

2010-03-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

Put your artist hats on! We want to see what YOU would come up with if you had to design your own toy box! From March 15th until April 14th we will be accepting entries into the Design Your Own Toy Box Contest so get busy!

One lucky grand prize winner will be chosen based on a public vote so get those pencils going and send us your design. Make it nice and colorful because the winner will not only win a toy box, but the toy box will be painted with their very own winning design!

A second place prize of a $50 Bouncing Off The Walls gift certificate will also be awarded to the entry with the second highest number of votes.

March 15th - April 14th: Entry submissions
April 15th - May 1st: Voting period
May 3rd: Winners announced

To enter simply go to

Bouncing Off The Walls on or after March 15, 2010 and click on the contest bar!

Contest is open to Canadian residents 18 years of age and older with the exception of Quebec. Full contest details are available on contest site on March 15, 2010.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-24T15:07:00.001-08:00

Not Just A Hobby

2010-02-12T17:58:00.001-08:00

The other day I got asked a question about my business and I haven't been able to shake the feelings it brought out.

"What are you going to do when your kids are older? Are you still going to paint baby and nursery stuff? I would think that you wouldn't be as interested in it once your kids aren't so young anymore."

The reason such a question struck a nerve with me is it made me realize that some of the most important people around me don't even realize the passion, dedication, drive and hard work that I've put into this business to get it to where it is today and to where it's headed in the future.

I started Bouncing Off The Walls before I had children. Three years before as a matter of fact. Art is something I've always been talented at and wanted to pursue as a career and I'm lucky enough to have found not only a great niche, but an area that I love as well.

This isn't a fun hobby to do while I'm on maternity leave or something I do to pass the time while my kids grow. In fact, being self-employed there was no maternity leave at all! I worked through the pregnancies and births of both of my children with no more than a few days off. I work during nap time; I work long after the rest of the world has gone to bed, I work when my husband is home and can watch the kids. I put my blood, sweat and tears into this business because I not only want the business to be successful, but I want my children to see how hard work can pay off.

Not once has it ever crossed my mind that I may not be into baby and children's products anymore. I love it. I always have. I've been accused on more than one occasion of being a grown child myself. I get excited to see a new line of bedding or a funky piece of kid's furniture. I love surfing the Internet looking for new and unique decor items that I haven't seen before. I love trying to come up with new products myself. There are babies born every day around the world just waiting to see their names up on their bedroom wall or a cute growth chart to measure their years by and I plan on being here to give them something they will treasure always.

Now don't get me wrong; my children are, a big part of my business! They inspire me every day. They've been the light-bulb moments for a few new products. They're my best and worst critics and sometimes even my helpers. They teach me to put the paint brush down and go build a train track, a puzzle or read a book. To take time off.

They continue to grow every day and it amazes me how fast time can go by. Give it all up because they're older and not into baby stuff anymore? NEVER! You haven't seen the last of me or my business yet!

Straight Line Designs

2010-01-24T07:32:00.001-08:00

So I was just surfing the web the other day looking at all things related to children's rooms; something I do often! When I came across some of the most funky, CRAZY, gravity-defying furniture I've ever seen! Upon closer inspection I discovered this furniture is made right here in Canada!

Judson Beaumont and his company Straight Line Designs out of Vancouver, British Columbia creates and hand-crafts some amazing pieces of furniture art! Think Dr. Seuss meets Alice in Wonderland meets Disney!

These whimsical pieces don't come cheap but you can rest-assured you're getting unique, high-quality pieces that will garner a lot of attention. Here are a few examples of his work!

2010 Sneak Peak

2009-12-27T00:02:00.001-08:00

Not many days remaining in 2009! Can you believe it has been ten years since the whole Y2K thing?

As I push through orders in the hopes of being able to take a little break in January I thought I'd let you in on a few things to look forward to for next year!

Firstly, newsletter subscribers and Facebook fans are going to be the ONLY ONES eligible to take part in a pretty cool contest coming up with a pretty cool prize so if you aren't one or the other (or both!) then I suggest you take care of that now so you don't miss out! You can sign up for the Bouncing Off The Walls newsletter on the home page of our site or there is a sign up box here on the blog in the right hand column. You will find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/bouncingoffthewalls

We also have new products and new designs that will be added in the New Year. Many of which come from your own ideas so stay tuned to see what's coming!

I will also be announcing where you will be able to find us! Everyone who's met me at trade show knows that there are always deals to be had by ordering in person. Soon I will be letting you all know where we will be and you can come down and see the products first-hand!

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas and I look forward to a fantastic 2010 with you all!

Hair Bow Holders

2009-12-17T19:45:00.000-08:00

One of the newest additions to Bouncing Off The Walls and now one of the more popular items is my custom hair bow holders. I have to admit that as a mother of a boy a hair bow holder was not something that had even entered my mind as a must-have item! Then along came a daughter in 2008 and things around here sure shifted! Said daughter was not only born with lots of hair, but CRAZY hair to boot! When you're born with hair like that everyone starts buying you hair accessories to try and tame the wildness!

But where to keep all these lovely bows and korkers? Clippies? (Ya, I had to learn a whole new language too!) I found some nice bow holders online, but of course the creative wheels started turning and I thought, "how great would it be to make bow holders that were COMPLETELY customizable?" Not just the colors or personalization, but what if I could make ANY type of bow holder requested?

And so I set out doing just that! I hand cut all my bow holders from 1/2" thick Baltic Birch plywood and I can pretty much do any design or shape imaginable as they're done entirely free-hand. That's what makes them so fabulous!

I do have to say that they've actually become one of my favorite items as I'm free to just draw the design and cut it as I see fit!

One of the biggest requests lately though is to make some that you can also hang hair bands on. I'm working on it! When I make one that I know will work and is of high-quality you'll be the first to know!

Until then, keep those ideas coming! I love them!

Mural Mural On The Wall

2009-12-12T13:18:00.000-08:00

Bouncing Off The Walls originally started as a mural business. Through the past few years due to the addition of wall letters, growth charts, room decor and two children I've had to stop painting murals and focus on things I can work on from the home front.

This was a decision that I really struggled with and went back and forth on more than once! I painted while hugely pregnant, I painted while orders for letters piled up, I painted when my husband had days off leaving no time for him and I. It was finally the amount of orders for room decor I was getting and the difficulty in finding child care that made me come to a firm decision that I was done painting on walls at this point in my life.

The hardest part was turning people down. Especially some whom I'd painted for in the past. I hated just saying no and leaving it at that. I needed to have someone to refer people to. I didn't want to just refer to anybody though, I wanted someone who did fabulous work and was great to work with.

And then I found Denise from Creative Artwork by Denise. Denise is a Calgary based mural artist with a passion for art work and children. Her work is fun, original and EXACTLY what I was looking for to refer people to.

A few phone calls and many emails later we finally met in person for a "quick" lunch. Ha! A quick lunch turned into about 3 hours as we soon discovered that we must have been separated at birth! With many eerie similarities between us I left that lunch feeling not only completely confident that I was referring people to one of the best muralists out there but that I'd also gained a great friend!

So, please; if you need a wall or even an entire room done, give Denise a call. You can rest assured that you've chosen someone who will give you a mural that's even better than you could have ever imagined it to be!

Simply Connected

2009-12-09T19:28:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday we had the privilege of spending some time with an amazing Calgary photographer getting some family pictures done. Her name is Brandi Murray and her business is called Simply Connected Photography.

Patience must be Brandi's middle name for working with a three-year-old over-actor who wants to pose too much and an eighteen-month-old with a mind of her own is no easy task I assure you! But, she took it all in stride and managed to capture the true personalities of my little family!

The following are just a few of the images Brandi captured!

If you are ever in the need for a great child, baby or family photographer in the Calgary area I highly recommend Brandi! Her relaxed personality coupled with ability to capture the perfect shots makes her our first pick!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

Fly Me To The Moon

2009-11-08T12:11:00.000-08:00

A week of sickness for the whole family creates cooped up, stir-crazy kids with cabin fever! In these times you don't dare cough, sneeze or take a runny-nosed child out in public without getting the wide-eyed look of horror from strangers that says they believe you are not only sick, but that you are the actual virus on a mission to destroy them!

So home you stay where everyone gets a little crazier as the minutes go by and the sickness slowly subsides. What to do at such a time?

With a little creativity and a cardboard box not only can you get everyone out of the house - you can fly them to the moon!

The ABC's of Alphabet Nurseries

2009-10-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Project Nursery

With nursery trends leaning towards modern and contemporary, alphabet nurseries are becoming all the rage! Here at Bouncing Off The Walls we've had the pleasure of assisting a few crafty moms in their quest for an original alphabet nursery. With some thinking outside of the box you can create a nursery that is unique, educational, not too babyish and certainly eye-catching!

To recreate this look start by looking around you. You would be amazed at some of the objects around you that can represent letters! For different textures and letters made from different materials visit craft stores. Some sell metal, plastic, fabric and wood letters. Glue some into frames or onto some other shape.

Bouncing Off The Walls can help by cutting letters in various sizes and fonts and we can paint them for you or send them to you unfinished for you to paint or decoupage yourself!

The ideas are endless. This is one nursery design that is sure to be fun to put together!

Big Success!

2009-09-21T21:21:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I spent my time in a little 10x10 booth at the Calgary Home & Interior Design show peddling my wares and chatting it up with everyone who stopped in. It was great to meet some of my past customers face to face, create new relationships with future customers and network with other businesses. Trade shows are, indeed, tiring but fun all at the same time!

Thanks to all those who stopped by to chat and I hope to see some of you at the Calgary Baby Show on October 3rd and 4th, BMO Centre at Stampede Park!

Toy Boxes Are Here!

2009-08-28T21:33:00.001-07:00

Finally!! One of the most requested products has finally been added to the line up at Bouncing Off The Walls! Why did it take so long for me to sell toy boxes? Because I had a hard time finding quality ones that I wanted to paint! Who wants a toy box that is cracked, lopsided or just plain cheap and flimsy even if it is painted beautifully?

Our toy boxes are none of that! (Well, ok...they're painted beautifully, but there not any of those other things!) Serguei from Khorin Custom Woodworking builds my toy boxes for me and he builds the best toy boxes around! Out standard one is solid pine with reinforced corners, anti-slam hinges and an air space for in the event a child should end up inside it. It measures 34"x20"x20" so there's plenty of room for even larger toys.

Every toy box is built to order which allows for changes to the design of not only the artwork, but to the box itself. Serguei is a woodworking genius and can craft the toy boxes from different woods and change whatever you want! It's as easy as contacting me with your ideas and I will give you a quote!

Match Made in Heaven!

2009-08-24T13:30:00.001-07:00

You know how some people just seem to have been made for each other? Well, recently I found the perfect mate for some of my hand painted drawer knobs! These gorgeous chocolate and pistachio throw pillows were made by Lily from Two Stray Cats on Etsy and as soon as I saw them I knew I'd found a match for my Chocolate and Lime drawer knob set!

This set of two 12" x 18" (30 x 45cm) pillows have been made with co-ordinated chocolate and pistachio toned cotton fabric with an envelope opening made from a lighter chocolate fabric that has been secured with gorgeous chocolate bronze looped edge ribbon.

Please check out Lily's shop; she does absolutely amazing work. Oh, and did I mention she's a fellow Albertan?! Like I said....a match made in Heaven!

Win Tickets for The Calgary Baby Show!

2009-08-11T12:31:00.001-07:00

Come meet Bouncing Off The Walls in person October 3rd and 4th, 2009 in the Calgary Baby Show at the Roundup Centre!

A fun and interactive event specifically designed to put everything you need all under one roof. More than 100 exhibitors will be present showcasing the latest in technology, apparel, furniture, products and toys to assist parents and caregivers every step of the way, from babies to school age and everything in between.

Bouncing Off The Walls is giving away two prizes of two tickets to two lucky winners! How can you win? There are many ways and each one you do is eligible for one entry!

Become a fan of Bouncing Off The Walls on Facebook

Follow this Blog

Tell us on our Facebook page what your favorite item is at Bouncing Off The Walls and let us know if you did any of the previously mentioned things!

It's that simple! Two lucky winners will be randomly drawn on Tuesday, August 18th and announced on Facebook!

Yee Haw, Cowboy!!

2009-07-06T19:25:00.000-07:00

It's Stampede time here in Calgary, Alberta which means that everyone you see is decked out in their best, or worst, western clothing and partaking in free pancake breakfasts, concerts, midway and a little rodeo! Tagged as the "Greatest Outdoor Show On Earth" the Stampede draws crowds from all over the world and takes up the better part of two weeks.

It is in this western spirit that I celebrate not by wearing boots and a hat, but by showing off some of my western and cowboy themed room decor!

Where the magic happens!

2009-06-28T14:30:00.001-07:00

Working from home can be a challenge in many ways but the one thing I am lucky to have is space! I talk to so many people who have to work off their kitchen tables or take over a dining room with supplies! It used to be this way for me, but last year we were able to build me my very own room! I also have a corner of the garage all to myself for doing all my letter and shape cutting. What more could a girl ask for? I thought I'd give you a little peak at my workspace so you can see where it all takes place!

Tracing out the letter design

At work cutting the letter out of the wood with my scroll saw

And this is my studio inside the house. I went bright and funky with this room as it is in the basement with a small window! We put in laminate floors for easy clean up and fluorescent lights for brightness. Along the top of the walls I put one of my favorite quotes to help with inspiration! “Nothing comes from nothing…Dare mighty things!” Believe it or not I still don’t have enough space some days when my worker is here and we’ve both got things spread out all over the place! When we originally built this room I had planned to have a corner set aside for the kids to have a craft area and I even painted a funky chalk board on the wall with chalk board paint for them, but I don’t see that happening now!

Some New Designs

2009-06-13T22:55:00.000-07:00

It's always nice when I get orders for designs that I've never done before. I love taking people's ideas and working them into a piece of art that they are proud to hang on their walls! Here are some of the newest letter designs that I've completed lately.

Fly Away Home Lady Bug Letters

Transportation Letters

Vintage Roses Letters

The Chest

2009-06-06T16:36:00.000-07:00

My husband just recently graduated after a long, hard application, selection and training process for a career that he has always dreamed of. As the proud wife I wanted to find him a gift that would not only be meaningful, but also unique. I wanted a "WOW" factor!

Boy did I get it! For a guy my hubby is pretty sentimental and he has been saving a lot of little momentos throughout the course of the last year and I thought he should have a special place to put it all. So I turned to my favorite woodworker. Serguei has done previous work for me in the form of toy boxes, waste baskets and tissue box covers and I've been very happy with what I've seen so far.

Considering I'm an artist who specializes in custom work you would think that I would know exactly what I wanted and I'd be able to give Serguei exact details for him to work with. So not the case! As an artist I also know that those that specialize have unlimited capablilities which makes it harder to decide what you like best! So, armed with as few details as "a dark stain, about the size of the toy boxes and some sort of artistic carving on it," he created a masterpiece!

I went and picked up the keepsake chest today and it honestly made my heart skip a beat. I LOVE it. It is so much more than even I could have imagined! Made from maple and stained in an espresso finish Serguei let his artistic side show with the beautiful, intricate hand carving on the front. He even thought to make an air space for safety knowing I have small kids that could possible climb inside!

My husband also loves it and couldn't stop looking at it all afternoon! I believe his first words were, "we should have him make all our furniture!"

So thank you Serguei! For those looking for ANY custom made piece, please contact Serguei or his wife Irina at Khorin Custom Woodworking. You won't regret it!

Close up of the carving. The pictures honestly don't do it justice!

Vote for me!!

2009-05-28T15:47:00.001-07:00

Kristina Vanderwater is a nominee for the SavvyMom Mom Entrepreneur of the Year Award and needs your vote to win! The Grand Prize is worth $15,500 in cash and prizes, which would help immensely with the growth of Bouncing Off The Walls!

Kristina has been working extremely hard trying to introduce some new custom products to her line including custom bedding and furniture. With 2 small children at home it can sometimes be a challenge to get it all done and this prize will not only help with time management but will give Kristina the opportunity to hire part time help!

Please support and vote for Kristina by clicking on her personal page at Bouncing Off The Walls
Please also help us spread the message by inviting all your friends to join our Facebook Event!

Voters are also eligible for some fantastic prizes.

Thank you for all your support!

Back In The Saddle

2009-05-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

Bouncing Off The Walls originally started as a wall mural business. After having two kids in two years I had to put a hold on the mural side of things. Trying to balance a very active toddler and a high maintenance baby along with a household and a business was just getting too tough. I decided that I had to prioritize a little and the murals had to go!

My youngest just turned one this past Friday also marking a year and a half since I'd last painted a mural for someone. I'd turned quite a few people down over that time and most regrettably repeat customers who were now welcoming another baby into their homes and wanted the nurseries painted.

One of my past customers contacted me shortly ago asking if I would paint their 20 month old's "big boy room" now that they had baby number two on the way and he'd be switching rooms. Here's the thing about me; when I come to paint in your house I don't just paint and leave. I connect with you and probably talk you ear off! I've lost count of how many great customers have turned into even greater friends. It's the thing I love the most about this business. So how do you say no to a friend?

Well, I didn't say no and as a result I spent this past weekend painting for the first time in a long time! Big Boy Dylan was switching rooms so his new baby brother could take over the nursery and an ocean theme was what we had lined up. His mom had bought a bright, whimsical quilt that was to be the basis of the mural theme. Happy, smiling octopus, crabs and sea turtles!

I didn't get a chance to see what Dylan thought of his room as his little brother decided to surprise us with an early arrival the day before I came to paint so Dylan wasn't home to see his ocean wall, but I'm sure that just like with his pond animals mural I painted in his nursery that he'll have to kiss all these creatures goodnight too!

If you live in the Calgary area and you're interested in discussing a mural with me please call me at 403-969-3355 or email at kristina@bouncingoffthewalls.ca If I am unable to do a mural for you I know a fantastic lady who can! Denise from Creative Artwork By Denise is not only a very talented muralist, but also a great person to work with! Please check out her site!

Wee Welcome Parent Power Contest

2009-05-20T14:14:00.000-07:00

I've just signed up for the Wee Welcome Parent Power Contest (about 3 weeks AFTER it started!) It's a contest for parents who are also business owners. I'd love your votes, especially since I'm coming in so late in the game! The link to go vote is here: Parent Power Contest Please feel free to also leave a comment!

Yes, you do have to sign up to vote, but it's nothing complicated. This is so that no one can manipulate the contest in their favor and they know you're an actual human being that's doing the voting!

Come on! Show me some love!
Contest ends on May 31st, 2009

Thanks!!

Speaking of Awards!

2009-05-14T13:02:00.001-07:00

I discovered the other day that Stephanie from A Pocket Full Of Buttons blog has gifted me with this wonderful Lovely Blog Award! Thanks Stephanie for passing this award on to me!

Here are the rules:

1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.

2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

These blogs are definitely award worthy!

Favors With Love
Babyjo Blog
Petit
Two Stray Cats
The Genuine Article
Crystal Allure
A Second Time
Crafted By Lindy
Cochrane Toy Box
Decorative Writings
Loopdiloops Baby Gear
Nursery Murals and More
Glimpse
Princess Ratbag Pettiskirts
After The Bump

And the award for the most unusual order goes to....

2009-05-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

...my latest Paramedic custom order design! Who thought I'd ever be painting blood on a wall letter?!

This letter was for someone who just graduated as a paramedic and is very proud of that! The rest of her family thought a design that encompassed a little bit of everything she loves about the job would make it a much cherished keepsake! The colors match a gorgeous plate that they also bought her!
This is a great example to show that, YES, I can customize the design just for you! Anything! Really!

It's All About The Extra Touches!

2009-05-08T06:27:00.001-07:00

Recently I've had a large growth in the sales of my custom, hand painted drawer knobs. Customers are having them made up to match previous items they've ordered like letters or a growth chart, but a lot are just simply looking for that special little touch that can finish a room off and give it that extra little WOW!

All knobs are painted on a 1 1/2 inch round mushroom knob then sealed multiple times with a protective spray to protect them from daily use. Use them on dressers, night stands or even closet doors! They're funky, fun and definitely pleasing to look at! For more designs check out Bouncing Off The Walls!

Signs of life

2009-05-01T14:38:00.000-07:00

April showers bring May flowers. That is the correct saying. However here April has been a month of snow. Every time the sun comes out and you start to feel some spring fever the clouds move back in and the flurries start! Very frustrating for those of us who were born to desire after a more tropical climate!

Well, today we have nice, blue skies again and nice enough temperatures that we could go outside. (After another night of snow! Go figure!) With the sun warming my back for a change, I ventured around my yard and lo and behold there is some May flowers poking up after all! Proof that spring is on the way after all!

Wow for Wood!

2009-04-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited I can hardly contain myself! I went today to pick up my first order from my woodworker that I just partnered with! I am so happy with the products!

I got two toy boxes, two waste baskets and a tissue box cover. Let me just say that I have been searching EVERYWHERE for a loooong time trying to find high QUALITY wood items to add to my shop. Do you know how hard that is? There is so much crap out there it's not even funny! Most wholesalers I found have cookie cutter items that are cheaply made from cheap materials and don't sit level; are cracked, broken, not sanded properly...you name it! I just could not in good conscience put out a product that is painted nice (if I do say so myself!) but not of the highest quality! The best part? It's all completely customizable! This man can build ANYTHING!!

Want your toybox to also be a bench seat? Want it to have molding or trim to fancy it up? He can do it! So far everything I've had him make has been pine, but he can even build from a wood of your choice! Just contact me with your ideas and I can get an estimate for you!

I will be sure to share pictures of these particular items when I'm finished painting them. In the mean time, it would be selfish of me to keep my woodworker to myself! If you live in the Calgary area and you need ANY home renovations or custom woodwork done - please give Serguei a call! He has been doing wood working and wood carving for the better half of his life and studied in Russia and across Europe. He comes very highly skilled and knowlegeable. Please give his site a peak - you won't be disappointed!

Custom Woodworking

New Wall Panels Coming To Bouncing Off The Walls

2009-04-27T10:42:00.000-07:00

These fantastic wooden art panels are just a sneak peak at the newest additions coming to Bouncing Off The Walls. Hand cut on 12" square panels they're a very unique way to add a great focal point to any room! I can't decide which is the coolest thing about them! The fact that they're 100% customizable to ANYTHING you wish to see - design and colors, or the fact that because they're painted on both sides they can be hung in any order, any direction on either side!

Because we wanted to give you the option to hang them any way you see fit, we decided to not put hangers on the backs and instead include two-sided sticky tape which will also allow for a flush fit against the wall. Hang them horizontal, hang them vertical! Staggered or diagonal! The choice is yours!

Watch for many more designs in the near future. The panels will sell as a set of three and retail for $150 CAD.

Spring Time at Etsy!

2009-04-23T12:00:00.001-07:00

With the remnants of last night's APRIL snow storm still all around me I thought I'd take a proactive approach and bring some spring to me! I've recently entered into the wonderful world of Etsy. No, it's not a foreign word! Etsy is an online market place for beautiful hand made goods! I strongly urge you to check it out if you haven't already! There are some unbelievably talented artisans out there with gorgeous items waiting to be discovered!

These items are perfect to brighten any child's room on a gloomy, winter day!

This beautiful Custom Chelsea Blue Lampshade with spring flowers is made by Fat Cat Designs!

This Garden Party Pillow is hand crafted by Alberta's own Two Stray Cats!

LOVE this Owl Pegboard by Maple Shade Kids!

And what would spring be without ladybugs? This beautiful hand painted picture frame is by Precious Designs Boutique.

This is just a very small sampling of the wonderful work that is available on Etsy! Check it out!

We All Had To Start Somewhere!

2009-04-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

One question I get asked quite often is if I have always been an artist or did I go to school to learn it. The truth is that I have always had a talent for putting what is inside my head down on paper but I have, in fact gone to art school as well. Art school was fine. I'm not knocking anyone who has chosen that path because I went myself; but really I'm sure I could have saved my parents the money! Although I walked away with some new, valuable art and design techniques the basics were something that I already knew. I was just born with it. What can I say? Some are good with numbers and some of us just relate well to this world in a visual way.

I distinctly remember three things that drove me nuts in kindergarten. One was that they would only let us paint with one color each week so that we could learn our colors! This was soooo aggravating for me! ONE COLOR?!?!? I already knew my colors! Let's get on with it people! Two was that one of my teachers tried to "help" me with a Christmas picture once by holding my hand and helping guide it while I painted! Can you imagine? I still feel a little bubble of anger rise up thinking about that. Let go, woman! How can I learn if you do it for me?! Talk about caging up artistic freedom! And the third one seems totally unfair of me now, but in a five-year-old mind made perfect sense. WHY IS EVERYONE DRAWING PEOPLE AS STICKS?? I couldn't figure this one out for the life of me! I never drew stick people! Ever!

Recently I pulled out an old box I have that contains stuff from my childhood. I'm sure every girl has one! A memory box or hope chest. A place to store all our little trinkets and diaries that were oh, so secretive! Well, I stored a lot of old artwork and crafts in mine! Arts and crafts were a regular activity in my house growing up. My mom kept a craft box full of all sorts of nifty things that we could apply to our latest project. Raining outside? No need to turn on the TV! Pull out the craft box and see what we can make today! Although they're too young still for a craft box this is one tradition that I will definitely be passing down to my kids!

It's still a little early to know if I've passed on the creative gene to either of my children. Only time will tell! I do believe though that it is something that you are, indeed born with. I don't know. Here's some of my earliest artwork. You be the judge!

Kindergarten picture (I won't tell you the year!)

Pages from my grade one journal. Note the banana seat bike!

This one is especially funny since I live in Canada. Must have been a cold weather parrot!

One of my favorite rainy day crafts. Two-Sided girl. Flat Stanley's sister?
A collection of various projects from elementary school. Nice mustache there!

"Nice Day, Mommy!"

2009-04-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

When you hear your son say that what can you do? Work? No way! It was a nice day today! Finally some sunshine and warmer temperatures. After what feels like the longest winter ever it's so nice to be able to get the kids outside again! So instead of working today I loaded them up and we went for a nice long walk to the park and had a picnic, or nicnic as my son would say!

Work can wait! One day in the sun with my children is far more healing then cutting letters!

11 month old Devyn watching her brother Reid play on the playground

Trendy Peas Wall Art

2009-04-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

People are leaning towards more modern, contemporary designs for children's rooms lately in the hopes to give their children rooms with endurance. Decor that will last past the toddler years and hopefully into the tween years and beyond.

At Bouncing Off The Walls we've recently added some collections of beautiful, modern wall canvases by Trendy Peas that are sure to go the distance in any child's room.

Trendy Peas was founded in an effort to bring unique contemporary style at an affordable price. The founders of Trendy Peas started their journey when looking for contemporary pieces to decorate their own baby's nurseries. They found that it was hard to find contemporary items at an affordable price. After a lot of searching, the moms to be decided to do it themselves. Trendy Peas offers collections of paintings that are designed to please both the parents and the little ones!

With five collections to choose from there is something for everyone!

The Olivia Collection

The Shapes Collection

Come visit us to see the rest of these wonderful collections!
Bouncing Off The Walls - Trendy Peas

Our New Look

2009-04-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

Many of you may be wondering why Bouncing Off The Walls looks so different then the last time you visited! Well, two weeks ago I went to update some things on the site and couldn't. I couldn't do anything! When I tried to go to my web host's site to see what was going on I got an error message that they didn't exist! So, in a mad scramble and through many sleepless days and nights I got busy signing up with a fantastic new host (Shoppe Pro) and rebuilt my site from the ground up!

I won't be able to get my money back that I'd paid until October with my old host. (That's a whole other story!) but the good in this definitely outweighs the bad! The new Bouncing Off The Walls is much more user-friendly, more eye appealing and has some added features that the old site did not!

With the new site there's is just one easy step to ordering your letters, drawer knobs, growth chart or other item! No more confusion as to the prices and no more hopping around trying to add extras like the rush order option!

Please, check it out and see what you think! Let me know if you find any errors and while you're there sign up for our monthly email newsletter!

2009-04-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

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