Kate McKinney Designs

Last Sunday I decided to start on my cottage kitchen backsplash. I measured and installed while my husband made the tile cuts. It's been a learning experience and full body workout but I'm enjoying it. Now I've decided I need to tile above the window. Stay tuned for this projects progress.

I'm deciding on base cabinet paint options. I've been wanting to do this for the past 6 years but other projects took precedent. I'll reevaluate in the morning to let the swatches dry and revisit them. This Kitchen gets direct sun around 10am and it's will change how these greens read.

Spring is on its way!

It's time for a change after all the sickness going around and the Winter blues. I picked up some faux flowers and a couple of lamps to transition to the new season. My toddler likes to get into everything so faux plants are the way to go at my house unless they are up high.

Ways to keep your budget down in this time of crazy inflation? Shop secondhand and discount stores! You will be surprised by what you can find at a fraction of the retail price. Facebook Marketplace is also a great place to find pieces.

Shop your house first.

Before you jump on Amazon or run out to the store to buy something you think you need. Take a moment and look around your house. You will be amazed by how many great pillows, baskets and decor you already own. Take this picture of my entry as an example. The lamp was already there but it was buried by clutter. The books and the geode were in another space and weren't showcased at all. The burl wood bowl was a thrift store find I stumbled upon and it was perfect for the space to hold keys etc. My entry table was not working for me at all. It was open at the bottom so my record player and board games were stacked and collecting dust. Now my marketplace sideboard has shelves inside so everything has its own home out of sight.

I love how it feels so much more bright and airy now and easy to wipe down.