Operation Pantry Remodel: Phase 1

Welcome to the first installment of...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxU3eHWyG84xxvVauej6ecFvWbeV0HLptlEfNyoT5nrP28hCRz1LiwOI_lmuyNF2uFkSYr1XVYWjvhQnLrRtTn8yxrsvOkvT2m5dg0lNLfFIFkK52OszxbvWoHtOgt2CGhDf8mxeYxxeb/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxU3eHWyG84xxvVauej6ecFvWbeV0HLptlEfNyoT5nrP28hCRz1LiwOI_lmuyNF2uFkSYr1XVYWjvhQnLrRtTn8yxrsvOkvT2m5dg0lNLfFIFkK52OszxbvWoHtOgt2CGhDf8mxeYxxeb/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />This will be a 3 (or 4?) part series if everything goes according as planned. Let's start this project off with the scary before...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3H_7GNtWfYL7p022ZlR_XSS86EwcD-saj8mEBUi7Pew250lElhHtfik5RNkX_h14kvnX8dOrdFvw_QyLaROn6OVb40sTgxFBm2VpshC_AhlVJUSfQUB-okQm0SW3-NMOWYCsieuTIqin/s1600/IMG_9308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3H_7GNtWfYL7p022ZlR_XSS86EwcD-saj8mEBUi7Pew250lElhHtfik5RNkX_h14kvnX8dOrdFvw_QyLaROn6OVb40sTgxFBm2VpshC_AhlVJUSfQUB-okQm0SW3-NMOWYCsieuTIqin/s1600/IMG_9308.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Doesn't this photo make your OCD kick in?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLMTf0WJ4cZN3imKru-TOdZY9GY9XbGbGSoYtb1hhL1iSle5Gr4sQpbcYqx-4XXkfJbu3TFOgkzrB2d6Dj4N4Xl3ijjIsgtJ7s7o2hYocS0ec-4949jLUKFV8NCIlZnQLLH0wfY0QFJc83/s1600/IMG_9309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLMTf0WJ4cZN3imKru-TOdZY9GY9XbGbGSoYtb1hhL1iSle5Gr4sQpbcYqx-4XXkfJbu3TFOgkzrB2d6Dj4N4Xl3ijjIsgtJ7s7o2hYocS0ec-4949jLUKFV8NCIlZnQLLH0wfY0QFJc83/s1600/IMG_9309.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpLGJcWgf1-b_IOAsHGBEew04fm_T7mU8mRznnsOynqnKGAWR3iU6JjiEGfY9nqPSjv2uku9eCKycRM_FPqXOnWs0PIIatgQdRAsaSUrcZ_y-8LM7CR0zgSro3sIxFKAMQgcYauihCnNo/s1600/IMG_9310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpLGJcWgf1-b_IOAsHGBEew04fm_T7mU8mRznnsOynqnKGAWR3iU6JjiEGfY9nqPSjv2uku9eCKycRM_FPqXOnWs0PIIatgQdRAsaSUrcZ_y-8LM7CR0zgSro3sIxFKAMQgcYauihCnNo/s1600/IMG_9310.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />These were not even staged. It just looked like this all the time. So you can see why I was beyond ready for a more practical solution. Also, I despise wire shelves for pantries. It just makes no sense. Things stand crooked and fall through the gaping holes. The photo above illustrates my point with those two falling bottles. These suckers have to go.<br /><br />I thought about this for months. I brainstormed these elaborate ideas to try and maximize the awkward deep, short space that is the opposite of what a pantry should be. I came up with L shaped shelves and wall mounted spice racks and anything else I could squeeze into this space, but in the end decided on a simpler, more fail proof blueprint.<br /><br />Here's the plan I came up with:<br /><br />1. Clean out/organize items<br />2. Locate an inexpensive glass jar set<br />3. Come up with an arrangement for each shelf<br />4. Purchase boxes/baskets for said arrangements<br />5. Remove door and wire shelving<br />6. Patch and paint inside (I hate to be predictable, but I gotta go with turquoise...)<br />7. Gather/cut wood supplies for shelves<br />8. Modge Podge fabric onto shelves (instead of heavy items directly on a painted surface)<br />9. Install shelves<br />10. Buy new spice jars, restock and organize<br />11. Hang a fun patterned curtain<br />12. Enjoy!<br /><br />The most challenging part of this is going to be building the shelves. We've done this once before in my <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2011/04/office-closet-reno-part-iii.html" target="_blank">office closet</a>, but it has been a while and there are more shelves to hang. <br /><br />This time I'm planning on omitting the front lip piece and leaving it open to maximize the reaching room as much as possible. I'm also excited to try adding fabric to the top, inspired by <a href="http://emmmylizzzy.blogspot.com/2011/03/tutorial-fabric-covered-shelves.html" target="_blank">this tutorial</a> I found on Pinterest. I know from experience how heavy objects sitting on a painted surface for an extended period of time can stick to the shelves, so I'm hoping this will be a great alternative while adding some style.<br /><br />First thing's first: start clearing crap out.<br /><br />The sloppy pile of foil/bags/wrap was the first thing to go. I cleared out a mostly unused shelf on the other side of the fridge and made them at home:<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TvpSzxfngRv4tTUpU8AM_HESeKNpn-j1WwTPNNEfUP5Y0xoV0DSdM0coeA02yNG8YxtQy03fhhmP0mM5Qenh-ycS9FlAjZtRb98UEp0IwexIkqriBMR27cT2sVgao_W1AaQvIw0y-ldY/s1600/IMG_9316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TvpSzxfngRv4tTUpU8AM_HESeKNpn-j1WwTPNNEfUP5Y0xoV0DSdM0coeA02yNG8YxtQy03fhhmP0mM5Qenh-ycS9FlAjZtRb98UEp0IwexIkqriBMR27cT2sVgao_W1AaQvIw0y-ldY/s1600/IMG_9316.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>I just noticed our saran wrap is the same box we brought with us from Cali over 2 years ago... clearly we are not heavy users.</em></td></tr></tbody></table><br />That was where we stored paper towels before, which I relocated by making a shelf adjustment in our bowl cabinet which left room for four rolls:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8xU51d_d5WCJEPhoXA0ie9q6sceF5FbgI0AUBU-7g3OKXUA-7KWf3ktdYRDK_nxDA-Z3yoyXvvGo0c4BSZhtsUAFdnJ5kPkPruSSGNz8Ayf0e_zrhguIq8YATv0RVyZ5sJLBV41cE96B/s1600/IMG_9353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8xU51d_d5WCJEPhoXA0ie9q6sceF5FbgI0AUBU-7g3OKXUA-7KWf3ktdYRDK_nxDA-Z3yoyXvvGo0c4BSZhtsUAFdnJ5kPkPruSSGNz8Ayf0e_zrhguIq8YATv0RVyZ5sJLBV41cE96B/s1600/IMG_9353.jpg" /></a></div><br />I was also able to stash a couple in a hidden corner between cabinets next to this shelf:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYgPeDjkap1r3AS2nDHrrlzcTtQRAgPdikJcntqTF7nvMtOu9NLw-37KeanVsi8D8fpaWf38PV7gBQFYmwIY-W1P6HyTRTlOQwgNSAhV_bQsSXNHzj-YJj8Yt7bF0bazfzz3wfjUkhB4j/s1600/IMG_9315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYgPeDjkap1r3AS2nDHrrlzcTtQRAgPdikJcntqTF7nvMtOu9NLw-37KeanVsi8D8fpaWf38PV7gBQFYmwIY-W1P6HyTRTlOQwgNSAhV_bQsSXNHzj-YJj8Yt7bF0bazfzz3wfjUkhB4j/s1600/IMG_9315.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Sneaky, right? I thought so.<br /><br /><br />As for the boxes and baskets, I fell madly in love with these after spotting them at the Container Store:<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.containerstore.com/catalogimages/130823/WhiteWashedWoodBins_x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.containerstore.com/catalogimages/130823/WhiteWashedWoodBins_x.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/storage/openBinsBaskets/naturalMaterials?productId=10029734&N=71225" target="_blank">Source</a></em></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />They weren't my idea of cheap at $20/ea, but the look and size was exactly what I needed, and do you know how hard it is to find the perfect fitting boxes for such a tight space? <br /><br />Before I pulled the trigger, I cut up a couple spare boxes that were almost the same size to make sure they would work:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJm_lcCFPOphivnOJR1aEhN_UrczYyfHZdMYUh0YtGSPP6t4mMqfvaJKzRWUxIl_PMBn_iybPd90ufIBAYggrFyTdLrJ4QjsB0ylN021TQcQdlByOkre_OGJVB_68WZeRJuEQvsjV8B_rU/s1600/IMG_9354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJm_lcCFPOphivnOJR1aEhN_UrczYyfHZdMYUh0YtGSPP6t4mMqfvaJKzRWUxIl_PMBn_iybPd90ufIBAYggrFyTdLrJ4QjsB0ylN021TQcQdlByOkre_OGJVB_68WZeRJuEQvsjV8B_rU/s1600/IMG_9354.jpg" /></a></div><br />And hooray, they did. So I got them. $50 shipped.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYO205Xdc9MmhMX5tbjDMzX37w9fMYmZgF5JivmH1xL2az4WEFdj6LynuZ9awl0Rr8abWvO6wj2UXMCKiUxue9m70NpH8TgqOZZyidEW07l7n7r8QABfVrH0_f-jrMTOHGP8fuQSfBWFP/s1600/IMG_9407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYO205Xdc9MmhMX5tbjDMzX37w9fMYmZgF5JivmH1xL2az4WEFdj6LynuZ9awl0Rr8abWvO6wj2UXMCKiUxue9m70NpH8TgqOZZyidEW07l7n7r8QABfVrH0_f-jrMTOHGP8fuQSfBWFP/s1600/IMG_9407.jpg" /></a></div><br />I designated one for snacks and the other for condiments, but things may shift a bit once everything is said and done.<br /><br />The biggest obstacle would be finding jars to hold everything I needed, in the right size, that didn't break the bank. The last condition being the most important. After dropping $50 on a couple boxes, I wanted to make up for it with my jars.<br /><br />First I took inventory of everything I had that could be stored in a jar, and made a list (in my handy dandy <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/almost-free-monthly-planner.html" target="_blank">planner</a>, of course)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigJcYr6mW40BIE63pw6HE8-9YpZ1Zaa1wTZ3gcd_kaNqSfz8qw3h-ZylB0umvFlhOfCvc_XfxulbiGZ3uEBF-rIQaoV1chJ39LFbsjptJOfskVdhvIKVyhlrIq3urr0Nvt3nhqZoTxomyx/s1600/IMG_9383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigJcYr6mW40BIE63pw6HE8-9YpZ1Zaa1wTZ3gcd_kaNqSfz8qw3h-ZylB0umvFlhOfCvc_XfxulbiGZ3uEBF-rIQaoV1chJ39LFbsjptJOfskVdhvIKVyhlrIq3urr0Nvt3nhqZoTxomyx/s640/IMG_9383.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />It came to 16–20 canisters, depending on what would end up fitting best. Then I noted whether they would be best suited for a large, medium, or small jar. <br /><br />With my list in mind, I started researching like crazy. There really isn't as many canisters as you'd think out there (unless I was just looking in the wrong places... but I scoured the internet). I found a couple nice ones on Amazon and the Container store, but at nearly $10 a jar, it was way out of budget.<br /><br />Even Walmart was surpringly pricey...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6-RLY8PEEZBFJWj9ovbn8CIS6_G0JwvjS2W9A2clRh8-v_nB9RjgHVpqJmwTen89kHASMHjgMjlkvMHlZuSDmYIOwwxvG9ba0CRtDH4fFzPqjQg3b_vkfV3lN29lWGRi5nq_XesLSR-r/s1600/IMG_1785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6-RLY8PEEZBFJWj9ovbn8CIS6_G0JwvjS2W9A2clRh8-v_nB9RjgHVpqJmwTen89kHASMHjgMjlkvMHlZuSDmYIOwwxvG9ba0CRtDH4fFzPqjQg3b_vkfV3lN29lWGRi5nq_XesLSR-r/s1600/IMG_1785.JPG" /></a></div><br /><br />I drove to every dollar store I could find before ending up at the happiest place on Earth:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwGg4hln0bEcTuGHO5J09geU5tiSdnepoGmFEtn6CcffruQ_Vb3wLcGCGjcpDosaFWc8VXTU1U0jIu3J81y7IdwuMjqQ5wAhj6DJiuYSMTS__aNN_O7NcAzSmcpxCszU_OUQ2GzvIpdng6/s1600/IMG_1778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwGg4hln0bEcTuGHO5J09geU5tiSdnepoGmFEtn6CcffruQ_Vb3wLcGCGjcpDosaFWc8VXTU1U0jIu3J81y7IdwuMjqQ5wAhj6DJiuYSMTS__aNN_O7NcAzSmcpxCszU_OUQ2GzvIpdng6/s1600/IMG_1778.JPG" /></a></div><br />I imagine this is what the gaves of heaven look like. Seriously.<br /><br />Inside the gates I found three potential candidates:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zs80xO227JJXAWWLfa8FT7sEyrP2JrIXzv-VNlHQ0YBWGKTozuFlj8mYXmtXmExaeOUmupRYzGjo-n06yUofOjKIN8kQaDh0TcvQzhvNjGKGXq-yY4p-6unqhVgDcUHvp0eZTRiquCLD/s1600/IMG_1770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zs80xO227JJXAWWLfa8FT7sEyrP2JrIXzv-VNlHQ0YBWGKTozuFlj8mYXmtXmExaeOUmupRYzGjo-n06yUofOjKIN8kQaDh0TcvQzhvNjGKGXq-yY4p-6unqhVgDcUHvp0eZTRiquCLD/s1600/IMG_1770.JPG" /></a></div><br />The setup on the left wasn't my first choice because the canisters didn't match, but I threw them in there for good measure. I had a feeling the tallest canister on the right side wasn't long enough for my angel hair pasta, but I didn't have my tape measurer with me so I just snapped these iphone photos and took them home to study.<br /><br />Oh, and it didn't hurt that these were their prices...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgclg6SRnn2vRfMIcOtH3pDH8PWL1RaZcHdBH8QQK0xxFIO91s9JXNC-nYe-KI2bQiA1UUz_4lKSsN8rTpiB7gAFW3Kxlo6p_RmOIbYafXW6bV0HTwsieHaldHd3ioxaLmwzs2ekAqePkAB/s1600/IMG_1768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgclg6SRnn2vRfMIcOtH3pDH8PWL1RaZcHdBH8QQK0xxFIO91s9JXNC-nYe-KI2bQiA1UUz_4lKSsN8rTpiB7gAFW3Kxlo6p_RmOIbYafXW6bV0HTwsieHaldHd3ioxaLmwzs2ekAqePkAB/s1600/IMG_1768.JPG" /></a></div><br />And they were half off, making them $3, $2.35 and $2.25/ea. Now that's what I'm talking about. (If you don't live near a Hobby Lobby, my condolences). <br /><br />According to my measurements, I could fit 6 jars in a row and decided upon 6 large, 8 medium and 4 small. I came back the next night and bought everything that was on the shelf, which was only 4 of each size.<br /><br />But I had apparently miscalculated...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5Jc2h0Yuvy3lNWI-TO-DfG4KEGnVIWdO2-9TMi2HPfbut6UmGnEvBWLuAR6n_OrHGfVssO_fIU6gBWowBqUVdU59NH4VT5J64iG62vqyvog1-c4xo2F30g-iXrus9YN1O-lPMTS5faca/s1600/IMG_9375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5Jc2h0Yuvy3lNWI-TO-DfG4KEGnVIWdO2-9TMi2HPfbut6UmGnEvBWLuAR6n_OrHGfVssO_fIU6gBWowBqUVdU59NH4VT5J64iG62vqyvog1-c4xo2F30g-iXrus9YN1O-lPMTS5faca/s1600/IMG_9375.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />It was a hair too narrow to fit 6 jars. So I just lined up the 4 of each I had for a visual...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTC4HcAeSw-fZAwNMYBC2SDHxovh7A2wgBzlAXsPf-1dNcmlFwLnAe4rG6XlYisf3rzoABMGheJnZ1Ww95k0tWLqcN4T9RoHArnCK9V5SYMbHJPiHNapTCVTUG1-e5FBBF_faDwA4AZupp/s1600/IMG_9378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTC4HcAeSw-fZAwNMYBC2SDHxovh7A2wgBzlAXsPf-1dNcmlFwLnAe4rG6XlYisf3rzoABMGheJnZ1Ww95k0tWLqcN4T9RoHArnCK9V5SYMbHJPiHNapTCVTUG1-e5FBBF_faDwA4AZupp/s640/IMG_9378.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />And I decided this would actually work better, because a) there would be more wiggle room for easier access, and b) I could build a small shelf on the right side of the shelf wall to store my spices. Perfect-o.<br /><br />It just meant I had to eliminate some jar contents and store them in their original packaging instead—no biggie. <br /><br />Then it was time for an exciting night of food organizing, which looked like this:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCAyD9j2EztOS6u-5lAUME6GkdYZeL6W81vsoDMnfH-mg8nMPgPgCgnQ9-XsSu6aJEe2euBKAcE0ujosgxmlyEejCUUOea2URZIR68VbJWpdr6aukIkHmYyULG3vZec7__UP14KPcEy9jh/s1600/IMG_9379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCAyD9j2EztOS6u-5lAUME6GkdYZeL6W81vsoDMnfH-mg8nMPgPgCgnQ9-XsSu6aJEe2euBKAcE0ujosgxmlyEejCUUOea2URZIR68VbJWpdr6aukIkHmYyULG3vZec7__UP14KPcEy9jh/s1600/IMG_9379.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilr8MSpoBn12YV6k-pT0DZScdmr6dkwIkAjJ3dCbX3ec8rp-We4nB-9fbLjDGyzVTXXsc8JdTqRVqBW0Uu9y1hm048sYSYYBO7YjQrjO75b1-Gao1jKGYWxsmkXxGBf-vpThP6EqxkQHYa/s1600/IMG_9380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilr8MSpoBn12YV6k-pT0DZScdmr6dkwIkAjJ3dCbX3ec8rp-We4nB-9fbLjDGyzVTXXsc8JdTqRVqBW0Uu9y1hm048sYSYYBO7YjQrjO75b1-Gao1jKGYWxsmkXxGBf-vpThP6EqxkQHYa/s1600/IMG_9380.jpg" /></a></div><br />After everything was in its place, I ended up with two small jars I wasn't using. This ended up being okay because now I had the perfect spot for oil & vinegar jars, which are frequently reached for in this house.<br /><br />Next it was time for the most exciting part: labels!<br /><br />To keep this part free, I simply used the same 2" round labels and template that I use for my print packaging. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzRSGMmfFMy0-wHY058Q2G0sZ69-tafbP7n7flexyXF5LVFGC8WfQEOr_jMIhCoQhZXzOYMN2WxDdT2OBT9MWP0nisOdPFAQTWLtBDzfXp4CV6ZDiKShhQcFGXKDA2OmZBkZfn81__BYwZ/s1600/IMG_9397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzRSGMmfFMy0-wHY058Q2G0sZ69-tafbP7n7flexyXF5LVFGC8WfQEOr_jMIhCoQhZXzOYMN2WxDdT2OBT9MWP0nisOdPFAQTWLtBDzfXp4CV6ZDiKShhQcFGXKDA2OmZBkZfn81__BYwZ/s1600/IMG_9397.jpg" /></a></div><br />The dotted outline and color were already what I had in mind so I just swapped out the text and printed a sheet.<br /><br />At first I thought the round lids would be an ideal location, since I could pretty much tell what I was looking at without having to read it...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwwBVTX9Er1Z-yATFu2Fssv_JUV5HM_uy2FXhtr5fW1P4vmwoi7YuYnBKEabe0nuKSyE-XMztRwz-oVptwiimwpclii-dEbN2PL62dFQslr3iIzanP5CSQ4rIYqojupeQDzMocNb-QtN5i/s1600/IMG_9399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwwBVTX9Er1Z-yATFu2Fssv_JUV5HM_uy2FXhtr5fW1P4vmwoi7YuYnBKEabe0nuKSyE-XMztRwz-oVptwiimwpclii-dEbN2PL62dFQslr3iIzanP5CSQ4rIYqojupeQDzMocNb-QtN5i/s1600/IMG_9399.jpg" /></a></div><br />But then I decided I wanted to be able to see them so I relocated them to the front.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAwEpU7Q2z-PqK_TqqsjAGeuCPCZuGNF4AFkgG3tBBaBDcHa66vGoV6E-6ayV0Y7WC2nzw2jSkcee_yycIm41GzZ-VOBDo0V82R4_HnfzglWMyxKn9wEBrdRtbYjMqcmJne6DWTjZG4UIM/s1600/IMG_9400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAwEpU7Q2z-PqK_TqqsjAGeuCPCZuGNF4AFkgG3tBBaBDcHa66vGoV6E-6ayV0Y7WC2nzw2jSkcee_yycIm41GzZ-VOBDo0V82R4_HnfzglWMyxKn9wEBrdRtbYjMqcmJne6DWTjZG4UIM/s1600/IMG_9400.jpg" /></a></div><br />I know the middle row names aren't fully visible, but I know what I'm reaching for so it's all good.<br /><br /><br />The next day at Hobby Lobby while returning the two small jars and searching for more boxes/baskets, I came across something I had seen before and always swooned over. I finally had a good use for it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZnpOO2Ojwy0TRgAtA8D9z1pwaeQSer9f3jncfFNyFgeqYIH4VXxB1s5B7NJLO8sXzm59Bn5Or8R9n1uK-fm237PADUEsSQifGppaFQyn7tnA1PxKdo-WEyC-cg7EnyvX_ln2nLHVY5v0w/s1600/IMG_9376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZnpOO2Ojwy0TRgAtA8D9z1pwaeQSer9f3jncfFNyFgeqYIH4VXxB1s5B7NJLO8sXzm59Bn5Or8R9n1uK-fm237PADUEsSQifGppaFQyn7tnA1PxKdo-WEyC-cg7EnyvX_ln2nLHVY5v0w/s1600/IMG_9376.jpg" /></a></div><br />Don't you love it? <br /><br />I love this organization feature, too...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nmZ1I_5f5lif3N8c0AzQhHYNJQncHyR1W0wK-4EK4XaANB8DGHMQ_o1-ITOROn7gSfJlG-snrJOvs8WfRW1uFbKJDnOXLfxQ1BJgxJ1FZEBzY1bLu0Id9T0Ej2RPZ-AK05u9lzp_5ft2/s1600/IMG_9403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nmZ1I_5f5lif3N8c0AzQhHYNJQncHyR1W0wK-4EK4XaANB8DGHMQ_o1-ITOROn7gSfJlG-snrJOvs8WfRW1uFbKJDnOXLfxQ1BJgxJ1FZEBzY1bLu0Id9T0Ej2RPZ-AK05u9lzp_5ft2/s1600/IMG_9403.jpg" /></a></div><br />It's the perfect spot for small boxes, packets, spices, etc. I'm sure things will get shuffled around some before the end of this, but it makes me happy.<br /><br />And that, friends, is the recap of Phase 1. This is how the pantry currently looks at this moment:<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7W7Yc29hLL4a1Fd_HcDs_bnIDNxZZv8k0h9lfv7QaV7bmlRgrGF_ucsuAL5Yqf2wGUtGAUpN80CzN37wd056isXlImcttfEdVlP3QzRExHBncU8NVFhCfUuCL-mI2MvE-aeX-0frmmRCR/s1600/IMG_9402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7W7Yc29hLL4a1Fd_HcDs_bnIDNxZZv8k0h9lfv7QaV7bmlRgrGF_ucsuAL5Yqf2wGUtGAUpN80CzN37wd056isXlImcttfEdVlP3QzRExHBncU8NVFhCfUuCL-mI2MvE-aeX-0frmmRCR/s1600/IMG_9402.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Ignore the overflowing garbages... I'll take it out tomorrow.</em></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The empty shelf is where the jars will go, but the stupid wires are bowing in the middle from the weight so I figured it'd be safer to leave them on the counter until I install the wood shelves.<br /><br />I need to find a big basket in the perfect size to hold the miscellaneous items on the top shelf, which is next on my to-do list:<br /><br /><strike>1. Clean out/organize items</strike><br /><strike>2. Locate an inexpensive glass jar set</strike><br /><strike>3. Come up with an arrangement for each shelf</strike><br /><strike>4. Purchase boxes</strike>/baskets for said arrangements<br />5. Remove door and wire shelving<br />6. Patch and paint inside (I hate to be predictable, but I gotta go with turquoise...)<br />7. Gather/cut wood supplies for shelves<br />8. Modge Podge fabric onto shelves (instead of heavy items directly on a painted surface)<br />9. Install shelves<br />10. Buy new spice jars, restock and organize<br />11. Hang a fun patterned curtain<br />12. Enjoy!<br /><br />In 7 days I'll be flying back home to Cali for the holiday, so I'm not sure how much of Phase 2 I'll be completing this week. I might wait until I return to rip the shelves out and repaint. <br /><br />Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone—I'll be back after the holiday with the next installment!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wgVAW4CkQJKe7F9T2TN0wW1SrDi-slD9gmVbLIZalyLM_SjovLgmJd6T5JVGN-zGsPjsUT8JqpC0Hg0bvBSKNbL2vSFE5zPRGb85uqM6xT3uwkNviMJoN_gRPvh-14Y8_L7ctp1v1IQ3/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wgVAW4CkQJKe7F9T2TN0wW1SrDi-slD9gmVbLIZalyLM_SjovLgmJd6T5JVGN-zGsPjsUT8JqpC0Hg0bvBSKNbL2vSFE5zPRGb85uqM6xT3uwkNviMJoN_gRPvh-14Y8_L7ctp1v1IQ3/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><br />

Operation Pantry Remodel: Phase 1

Welcome to the first installment of... This will be a 3 (or 4?) part series if everything goes according as planned. Let's start this pr...

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Kitchen Update + Giveaway winners

Random title for a random post.<br /><br />I'm back from our big adventure to Costa Rica (yes, I'm still alive!) and it was everything I ever dreamed of...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUqZpaTge1DKkan1JZ1RAu9kkBGGje47PCl16yzgYGu6x1dk-7JJKqTGAq-Oddcx4Dh6BHNKvuKOLB5Xnw3TfgZfDuhg2dkZ7CKXpIgvM-3aQW8aydOt6Tco_XgDdACLB_-Gyb8BMVD_K/s1600/Costa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUqZpaTge1DKkan1JZ1RAu9kkBGGje47PCl16yzgYGu6x1dk-7JJKqTGAq-Oddcx4Dh6BHNKvuKOLB5Xnw3TfgZfDuhg2dkZ7CKXpIgvM-3aQW8aydOt6Tco_XgDdACLB_-Gyb8BMVD_K/s640/Costa.jpg" width="422" /></a></div><br />From playing with monkeys to ziplining to tubing to mud baths & hot springs to rock climbing and horseback riding and even a 6.6 earthquake... this trip was one for the recordbooks.<br /><br />I wanted to bring a piece of it home with me to remember, and I didn't have to look farther than the beach. Their beaches are amazing. Filled with miles of driftwood, pristine seashells and large chunks of coral. <br /><br />I've been wanting my own piece of driftwood forever now, and had given up on finding any at our local beaches (they are scooped up the second they appear), so I hit the jackpot on this trip.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhed1NgrNB_5yLve8eZomiUw07H7oH9xBVKXJ9UJZlQ6HqXPpsgSvsiE9MKif79kjnwCToqyEZo15ToHC4KIJlLW3MLMJafc92chfRQCW9qN4rHM66LtpX57-G5DOZHmtoqre9rHs-Ei-kA/s1600/IMG_9328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhed1NgrNB_5yLve8eZomiUw07H7oH9xBVKXJ9UJZlQ6HqXPpsgSvsiE9MKif79kjnwCToqyEZo15ToHC4KIJlLW3MLMJafc92chfRQCW9qN4rHM66LtpX57-G5DOZHmtoqre9rHs-Ei-kA/s1600/IMG_9328.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />It was small enough to fit in my suitcase, and just the perfect size for the console table. <br />I love the black volcanic ash twisted into the wood. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXpOt1KMOgGqdvJPnMQ1-MB6t7D667ZMxyOiX8vcRwaCYdfqrxhtZwMhKxaYSGV4m2k6H5se6iIAG-dmb8ZhU8d0ssSbxP11CS1OK9BKUB6tFh0T0o9_EAJklt90JLjgDFNrCvjCuK2yd/s1600/IMG_9331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXpOt1KMOgGqdvJPnMQ1-MB6t7D667ZMxyOiX8vcRwaCYdfqrxhtZwMhKxaYSGV4m2k6H5se6iIAG-dmb8ZhU8d0ssSbxP11CS1OK9BKUB6tFh0T0o9_EAJklt90JLjgDFNrCvjCuK2yd/s1600/IMG_9331.jpg" /></a></div><br />And of course, I couldn't leave without a stash of shells and coral...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuO56LHVtfTDyAaSF_L4qDbukT-lZJTx9j_JwvBHSuIfaJgYs2gsA8ZHZ-pTekUXEXLqX2j0Fxu18gto739Yn-N343RotlflG5kQHyUzGriUFi9PgquJsyor6e5pz9Luk4bPHzBjBPK1xB/s1600/IMG_9342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuO56LHVtfTDyAaSF_L4qDbukT-lZJTx9j_JwvBHSuIfaJgYs2gsA8ZHZ-pTekUXEXLqX2j0Fxu18gto739Yn-N343RotlflG5kQHyUzGriUFi9PgquJsyor6e5pz9Luk4bPHzBjBPK1xB/s1600/IMG_9342.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Aren't they neat? The sand is just littered with them. <br /><br />After soaking them in bleach (to get rid of any lingering saltwater nasties) and letting them dry, I had to find a place to display them.<br /><br />I had this old candle jar that I thought would work on the same console table underneath the driftwood:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFnrLrBTWJz0wkNOKmMcohCRUQHwINa9jyvjBk36xDGQshs52INh_5XlRXyZt06VCbNOC4R8yoaLSkkfs1D_8camrdmywkKjCKf3iwQTNtgTYr9oFQQN7FVoVNCcptVgaETdXuta_1Q7g/s1600/IMG_9340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFnrLrBTWJz0wkNOKmMcohCRUQHwINa9jyvjBk36xDGQshs52INh_5XlRXyZt06VCbNOC4R8yoaLSkkfs1D_8camrdmywkKjCKf3iwQTNtgTYr9oFQQN7FVoVNCcptVgaETdXuta_1Q7g/s1600/IMG_9340.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />A quick google search instructed me to freeze it for a couple hours and the wax will pop right out.<br /><br />After removing it from the freezer, I tried to pry it out with a knife, and then this happeend...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpC32Ubblz8FRCBTL1aO9O-6SMkbSCqm30nS0cPZolvCaDp2154WpEwCHrkDXl6ohDL5i0e3nQgvkdYjTIKz1dI9Q1KcNYgq0KeN-4T8kRAXKkmudjNeQ_h05v6bOqUdtI-c3ll86jcgZt/s1600/IMG_9356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpC32Ubblz8FRCBTL1aO9O-6SMkbSCqm30nS0cPZolvCaDp2154WpEwCHrkDXl6ohDL5i0e3nQgvkdYjTIKz1dI9Q1KcNYgq0KeN-4T8kRAXKkmudjNeQ_h05v6bOqUdtI-c3ll86jcgZt/s1600/IMG_9356.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Whoops, time for a plan B.<br /><br />I didn't have any more candles in that size, but I did have a smaller one, so I figured I'd give this experiment another try:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCKAHvahVD2jC1bxVS7sBmFbASqzzmBIMS-YdnEieRK9Mmk8qn8Yrp-XiVyi6KtPzraerle2rM5TzsAhWSynRLyaHDtcjnrBk1lgvwDJRo-ZuoHMuQPHhS-f4C9e8Onkzg_fsckKNjIwmg/s1600/IMG_9359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCKAHvahVD2jC1bxVS7sBmFbASqzzmBIMS-YdnEieRK9Mmk8qn8Yrp-XiVyi6KtPzraerle2rM5TzsAhWSynRLyaHDtcjnrBk1lgvwDJRo-ZuoHMuQPHhS-f4C9e8Onkzg_fsckKNjIwmg/s1600/IMG_9359.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />This time it fell right out on its own.<br /><br />I gave it a quick scrub and rinse, and I had a fresh empty jar:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkA9nzXUHwIDcgi-rQqgOe5_Xz4KVFO4Z8DEUFdFvs8Zr-ZelvgWKc5GtfAumu8AIN_-m3MkCKLC4NarCqzycuNve8lBO6Sy0ZeRbkaN7iv44eWPBNl5kamA7l9NiXH-oJ9KJMPs_Gkbr/s1600/IMG_9361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkA9nzXUHwIDcgi-rQqgOe5_Xz4KVFO4Z8DEUFdFvs8Zr-ZelvgWKc5GtfAumu8AIN_-m3MkCKLC4NarCqzycuNve8lBO6Sy0ZeRbkaN7iv44eWPBNl5kamA7l9NiXH-oJ9KJMPs_Gkbr/s1600/IMG_9361.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Perfect size for a shell display.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttMShQnBoHhUzWrPUICAjoKPhtOQExTRMjeBeoQfFYxCkhNz-xOP3-nyprQk7hsU-P9981rLguqEq2PAvAH9oR-BtwDCfoYfZtBwpVpkYzrQj4CNbTXy7f6ztnjK77VlTWEr6Ua5DCbK_/s1600/IMG_9363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttMShQnBoHhUzWrPUICAjoKPhtOQExTRMjeBeoQfFYxCkhNz-xOP3-nyprQk7hsU-P9981rLguqEq2PAvAH9oR-BtwDCfoYfZtBwpVpkYzrQj4CNbTXy7f6ztnjK77VlTWEr6Ua5DCbK_/s1600/IMG_9363.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitLL6PNUyp2ZLbtqA9Fqs3T3iABEyhexBiwZzAljkBQLyPZX8Lca7rQAUSOE5sBRfW88QzmeOK_MlBDS98DFFbDndnN_9wyAYkR0bvumfEcrkHWEqK8gSSLH9Cy7MQe99oV87YAEMb9yqn/s1600/IMG_9364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitLL6PNUyp2ZLbtqA9Fqs3T3iABEyhexBiwZzAljkBQLyPZX8Lca7rQAUSOE5sBRfW88QzmeOK_MlBDS98DFFbDndnN_9wyAYkR0bvumfEcrkHWEqK8gSSLH9Cy7MQe99oV87YAEMb9yqn/s1600/IMG_9364.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I placed it here for now but it will inevitably relocate in the future. <br /><br /><br />Now, moving on.<br /><br />It has been 9 months since we put the finishing touches on our kitchen. So in the time it takes to grow a baby, our cabinets have gone from perfect shiny white:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJzSTrsR4DViXu-G6tMP5d-TFM-59wVemxiMmoe-iqiEFBE9JXnN5jEWxkXxxLuJfUYTCO_0qBY-Y411cjv65dmuion4kDRPmk-DyHW9BAGegVH3QRoYX6zIgfuBc9M4z_w0o64pwVE239/s1600/IMG_7328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJzSTrsR4DViXu-G6tMP5d-TFM-59wVemxiMmoe-iqiEFBE9JXnN5jEWxkXxxLuJfUYTCO_0qBY-Y411cjv65dmuion4kDRPmk-DyHW9BAGegVH3QRoYX6zIgfuBc9M4z_w0o64pwVE239/s640/IMG_7328.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />To slightly less pristine:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbAAR7u4tVoxmJLQEO-tdEPVb_trtMEqWFcP2sQljXYlHSDRgdwUll1B1tUBPrm23AsgqcLvl9FLGASRjv5zPVI6TyAGLqgMfv8sOwYQlzuzjslfuaazcR7_WW7sAeSaoG_Sb_vTrO-Kao/s1600/IMG_9255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbAAR7u4tVoxmJLQEO-tdEPVb_trtMEqWFcP2sQljXYlHSDRgdwUll1B1tUBPrm23AsgqcLvl9FLGASRjv5zPVI6TyAGLqgMfv8sOwYQlzuzjslfuaazcR7_WW7sAeSaoG_Sb_vTrO-Kao/s1600/IMG_9255.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_t1FBbzGmfr_cTOoS78GNvOgG-ZdsfB6douaFSSzANg3bWFv8qpn9HD6FDiXDPiaZMFIx5HOL2RCglnIXnHAUEJJeql1uZ8TXvvchmX2ELzzoEaMbEM4jKLTCiBqUF3TCRw_w03XvYBBv/s1600/IMG_9259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_t1FBbzGmfr_cTOoS78GNvOgG-ZdsfB6douaFSSzANg3bWFv8qpn9HD6FDiXDPiaZMFIx5HOL2RCglnIXnHAUEJJeql1uZ8TXvvchmX2ELzzoEaMbEM4jKLTCiBqUF3TCRw_w03XvYBBv/s1600/IMG_9259.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />Caulk has a bad habit of shrinking/disappearing over time, and it was becoming evident by the cracks in the seams. Not only that, but I felt like the paint was wearing down a bit in some places, like here:<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7njFojYzLgQFN2nJhxVbD8-a9AqXTQLVnvx8KSUz4EPzPp5HCfL9uJt6hIhuL1g5WjOznxaE7nUokAq4XS5J5EZvNOhmZCbbEzPUzVi8ILqiQZvSYoKOiclECSMPBWMq16NlK6-Y0NCb/s1600/IMG_9257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7njFojYzLgQFN2nJhxVbD8-a9AqXTQLVnvx8KSUz4EPzPp5HCfL9uJt6hIhuL1g5WjOznxaE7nUokAq4XS5J5EZvNOhmZCbbEzPUzVi8ILqiQZvSYoKOiclECSMPBWMq16NlK6-Y0NCb/s1600/IMG_9257.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />And here:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYt8IPLDDIuIeXJ8s2yKJVv0ApKr9Qpr75OhYkPWVvONFwjmAbmbplQhUOID8kRRx2qrMpxq9OitrD2iFyaMSprw3m-5A9y0fQXUrVn0ALZT9_-j_tkaAvhlvpQtk_2B62bcy3Sc1LIlR/s1600/IMG_9258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYt8IPLDDIuIeXJ8s2yKJVv0ApKr9Qpr75OhYkPWVvONFwjmAbmbplQhUOID8kRRx2qrMpxq9OitrD2iFyaMSprw3m-5A9y0fQXUrVn0ALZT9_-j_tkaAvhlvpQtk_2B62bcy3Sc1LIlR/s1600/IMG_9258.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_t1FBbzGmfr_cTOoS78GNvOgG-ZdsfB6douaFSSzANg3bWFv8qpn9HD6FDiXDPiaZMFIx5HOL2RCglnIXnHAUEJJeql1uZ8TXvvchmX2ELzzoEaMbEM4jKLTCiBqUF3TCRw_w03XvYBBv/s1600/IMG_9259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>  </div>Even though we completely followed the rules, step by step, and even made sure to be a little generous on the paint coverage so this wouldn't happen.<br /><br />Regardless, it started bothering me enough to the point where I needed to break out the  <br />caulk & paint for touchups.<br /><br />Caulk first:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFU1zglKGlA10mfxS76qRhD2G4WZsqfDn2Txe8Y5Pdb9Lj0w3vVjSGrPw2Za88Fs43htQkYmG0JEPLNasMfBTFfoGf6bN82LB30OoTmLpnl30WTIR_alEgiaaRr330q5ezyUYDReXdw4d/s1600/IMG_9260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFU1zglKGlA10mfxS76qRhD2G4WZsqfDn2Txe8Y5Pdb9Lj0w3vVjSGrPw2Za88Fs43htQkYmG0JEPLNasMfBTFfoGf6bN82LB30OoTmLpnl30WTIR_alEgiaaRr330q5ezyUYDReXdw4d/s1600/IMG_9260.jpg" /></a></div><br />After a thorough cleaning, I generously lined all of the cabinet seams and let it dry.<br /><br />So much better already.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtF_RJFY1tXUUiQDEXXR2tAIf0GH9Dj3RdZCMR4FrD9TgvYZS4trxSXRn2ENuP9226Bi3VxY8POtbJCXe7NX6elbO2r5TVdOrPHxwSDBk4E9TC6lKEo6QrPXn4OHOEALW8L7PtZxzHr2WN/s1600/IMG_9263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtF_RJFY1tXUUiQDEXXR2tAIf0GH9Dj3RdZCMR4FrD9TgvYZS4trxSXRn2ENuP9226Bi3VxY8POtbJCXe7NX6elbO2r5TVdOrPHxwSDBk4E9TC6lKEo6QrPXn4OHOEALW8L7PtZxzHr2WN/s1600/IMG_9263.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_t1FBbzGmfr_cTOoS78GNvOgG-ZdsfB6douaFSSzANg3bWFv8qpn9HD6FDiXDPiaZMFIx5HOL2RCglnIXnHAUEJJeql1uZ8TXvvchmX2ELzzoEaMbEM4jKLTCiBqUF3TCRw_w03XvYBBv/s1600/IMG_9259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>Yesterday I came back in with a paintbrush to cover up any areas where the paint was worn down or the grain was peeking through.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87ZRuJQQEGiELTiPKOvPdlxQR061BAuW07txVaRT3rAgFrVaoE6VOTVRvHQf5VHVTkN9wwJR3N3DMFH82fMQGBOnxN8Vh9D_7x4MKXpx-l1h1S8r2atHxW25e8nZHnQz19wCwyZUfccle/s1600/IMG_9320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87ZRuJQQEGiELTiPKOvPdlxQR061BAuW07txVaRT3rAgFrVaoE6VOTVRvHQf5VHVTkN9wwJR3N3DMFH82fMQGBOnxN8Vh9D_7x4MKXpx-l1h1S8r2atHxW25e8nZHnQz19wCwyZUfccle/s1600/IMG_9320.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />And now they are back to normal! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZNMDl5DS0Vq59myiBsGWBRuyfcbzgw4ThWgWSQxZG2ibJ4J3RSsM_X45D-JqqlKXGgD-Rm0SAQ9uRAXZDaEnNiJmxygCYK7Ge9t8bcSh18TcGrnSZMvPBuQ2nllcao6tWfH8CXxG4k80/s1600/IMG_9345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZNMDl5DS0Vq59myiBsGWBRuyfcbzgw4ThWgWSQxZG2ibJ4J3RSsM_X45D-JqqlKXGgD-Rm0SAQ9uRAXZDaEnNiJmxygCYK7Ge9t8bcSh18TcGrnSZMvPBuQ2nllcao6tWfH8CXxG4k80/s1600/IMG_9345.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvf7UOVgQnW4-gyLAAxmT3gSqV75KzfQN759jwDstMYL-bWabnqVAMRR_wdvwIz8ovtSp01pNEEpJHlCBSjTSNqRh6G1zCcwbR9hF9KcrpiNKKV3UYEAhWnn-fo1HbYB_8R1uRpYGKbob/s1600/IMG_9347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvf7UOVgQnW4-gyLAAxmT3gSqV75KzfQN759jwDstMYL-bWabnqVAMRR_wdvwIz8ovtSp01pNEEpJHlCBSjTSNqRh6G1zCcwbR9hF9KcrpiNKKV3UYEAhWnn-fo1HbYB_8R1uRpYGKbob/s1600/IMG_9347.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPNIaQcnL-VnaSMhOVHMGhAciYy68-rMzlm5Rm_xkfYpIfdwheL4eXBbHJhEvneu8ka91ugtPsymmWVcHdKEJZNaSF3hguoIWUaRtV6f18F-MmRwul3Vu3fbTL8n5QDdPhz5T27llBRvp/s1600/IMG_9346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_KFyIIGazTBM4Vv_nuajy1lqn1ngivOvKoFfryfyPt0RHBNcVvFfK1Vm9Gp7C1z6Yy2oaofvWzKI2fIsoeGm_KUb2gFEqcZ4rsnL9EFdQYdFNMawO7R3Kbk7vQxmsnopGhK6FNcj66Gk/s1600/IMG_9351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_KFyIIGazTBM4Vv_nuajy1lqn1ngivOvKoFfryfyPt0RHBNcVvFfK1Vm9Gp7C1z6Yy2oaofvWzKI2fIsoeGm_KUb2gFEqcZ4rsnL9EFdQYdFNMawO7R3Kbk7vQxmsnopGhK6FNcj66Gk/s1600/IMG_9351.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKgBlvTCVLyLmzwysCNE4W-96BF7AOFhDL0qIdtyID6jFQfLocZ0LkUkDSCscIgPQLP7McKdnPKSevxgkMvjmmsrf-pE-zJruLBV_x3bwDDTt1AyZLYh8q4JjZNz5lEiQXHxKP2p1ojen/s1600/IMG_9352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKgBlvTCVLyLmzwysCNE4W-96BF7AOFhDL0qIdtyID6jFQfLocZ0LkUkDSCscIgPQLP7McKdnPKSevxgkMvjmmsrf-pE-zJruLBV_x3bwDDTt1AyZLYh8q4JjZNz5lEiQXHxKP2p1ojen/s1600/IMG_9352.jpg" /></a></div><br />Let's hope this lasts.<br /><br /><br />And now... it's time to announce the five winners of my customized iPhone 4 template giveaway!<br /><br />Here are the randomly chosen names, in no particular order:<br /><br /><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_0M" kind="m"><cite class="user"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/08423703990305341157" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: black;">Lizzie @ PrettyCityThings</span></a><span style="color: black;">  </span></cite><span style="color: black;">Awesomesauce. I'd pick a London cityscape. I've already got a clear case just waiting to be filled! Have a great trip! :)</span></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"><span style="color: black;"></span> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_4M" kind="m"><cite class="user"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/08380662803266455431" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: black;">gk</span></a> </cite><span style="color: black;">This is awesome! I've been on the hunt for a giraffe iphone 4 case but haven't found anything I like. I would pick the giraffe!! Have fun in Costa Rica :)</span></div><div class="comment-content"><span style="color: black;"></span> </div><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_12M" kind="m"><cite class="user"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/06870029030857845399" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: black;">J and J Washburn</span></a>  </cite><span style="color: black;">I'd love to have the Seattle cityscape so I can rep my hometown!</span></div><div class="comment-content"><span style="color: black;"></span> </div><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_19M" kind="m"><cite class="user"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/14335861198929952382" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: black;">Derek and Britt</span></a>  </cite><span style="color: black;">I would love the California State Silhouette! Have an awesome trip!</span></div><div class="comment-content"><span style="color: black;"></span> </div><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_23M" kind="m"><span style="color: black;"><cite class="user">Melissa R </cite></span><span style="color: black;">How fun! I would love a country silhouette of Japan, blue chevron, with a little heart on Tokyo to remind me of when I used to live there :)</span></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"><strong>Winners:</strong> please email jennasuedesignco [at] gmail.com with your selections and I'll get working on them right away. Congrats to you guys, and thank you all for your comments! </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">And finally... it has been over a month since I've really done anything D&R related, so I'm anxious to jump back in with a kitchen project.</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">This one should be...... fun?</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcUC7vD6zQLSCkXiMjIL9oYSQhLmscFQPKncDDvwiDXXFcZLyfbv62I-qWt0oBUI4rnuuPBoSVZpr-VaKLvgFK7WWqq3U2umTO3E7uUrCWbktt5aOCKx1DEFhBbrvxb0ieDx4s_hW1yZQN/s1600/IMG_9308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcUC7vD6zQLSCkXiMjIL9oYSQhLmscFQPKncDDvwiDXXFcZLyfbv62I-qWt0oBUI4rnuuPBoSVZpr-VaKLvgFK7WWqq3U2umTO3E7uUrCWbktt5aOCKx1DEFhBbrvxb0ieDx4s_hW1yZQN/s1600/IMG_9308.jpg" /></a></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">Operation Pantry Remodel has begun!</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxU3eHWyG84xxvVauej6ecFvWbeV0HLptlEfNyoT5nrP28hCRz1LiwOI_lmuyNF2uFkSYr1XVYWjvhQnLrRtTn8yxrsvOkvT2m5dg0lNLfFIFkK52OszxbvWoHtOgt2CGhDf8mxeYxxeb/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxU3eHWyG84xxvVauej6ecFvWbeV0HLptlEfNyoT5nrP28hCRz1LiwOI_lmuyNF2uFkSYr1XVYWjvhQnLrRtTn8yxrsvOkvT2m5dg0lNLfFIFkK52OszxbvWoHtOgt2CGhDf8mxeYxxeb/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">Yes, it was important enough to make a graphic for.</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">This will be done in a few stages, because I plan on being thorough and meticulous. All these weeks of no house projects has built up a reserve of creativity and ideas, and they are about to unfold. I'm going big with this one. (well—as big as you can go in a small crowded pantry).</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m">Get ready!</div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wgVAW4CkQJKe7F9T2TN0wW1SrDi-slD9gmVbLIZalyLM_SjovLgmJd6T5JVGN-zGsPjsUT8JqpC0Hg0bvBSKNbL2vSFE5zPRGb85uqM6xT3uwkNviMJoN_gRPvh-14Y8_L7ctp1v1IQ3/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wgVAW4CkQJKe7F9T2TN0wW1SrDi-slD9gmVbLIZalyLM_SjovLgmJd6T5JVGN-zGsPjsUT8JqpC0Hg0bvBSKNbL2vSFE5zPRGb85uqM6xT3uwkNviMJoN_gRPvh-14Y8_L7ctp1v1IQ3/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><div class="comment-header" kind="m"> </div></div>

Kitchen Update + Giveaway winners

Random title for a random post. I'm back from our big adventure to Costa Rica (yes, I'm still alive!) and it was everything I ever d...

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