Labor Day Labor (of love)

I've written a new list of projects that don't necessarily need to be done before the Home Tour. But one task does and I've been dragging my feet starting it. 

I chose to keep the original floor in the main floor bath, knowing full well that it would require regrouting and maybe a glaze (haven't fully researched that). But in the meantime, I've struggled with how to get years of dirt, compounded by time and construction mess, off the tile and out of the grout. And I finally found it!

Bar Keepers Friend! I bought it to clean up the burner trays on my electric range when I realized that possibly, this would work. It's abrasive, but these tiles are pretty worn down, so I wasn't too worried. 

And low and behold... It's working!

I swear this isn't "my" dirt. I've mopped and cleaned this floor more times than I've ever wanted to. Trust me. 

And when I get back from my Labor Day relaxation, I plan to finish. But in the meantime, I'm thrilled with this product and the outcome! And it's inexpensive!!

New Projects before the Home Tour

Why, you ask, would I start new projects before the home tour? I'm not sure. The main reason is; I'm proud of this home and I want it to shine. But I rationalize and say I work better under a deadline. But the truth is, I love working on this house. I love the end results! 

And speaking of the home tour, if you'd like information, visit this link:

Fall Neighborhood Tour Info

Since the photo shoot, my mom came to visit and lend a helping hand with the craftier projects at which I really do not excel. We made a headboard, put new fabric on some roller shades and hemmed curtains. We also touched up all the paint, fixed up the yard a bit and made plans for the restoration of the stairs going upstairs. Very productive!

Here's the headboard, made with fabric I just happened to find at a garage sale!

Then fixing these roller shades was really a labor of love. The old shades had wood rollers, which to me should never be thrown away! So for $25 (I had a coupon at JoAnn Fabric), we repaired 4 shades!

And finally, the curtains. We hemmed then to show off the original woodwork. I was floored by the difference!

After mom left and I had sufficiently recovered, I decided to strip and strain the main bathroom door. This may not have been my smartest move. The stripping wasn't so bad, except I don't think I got the 3 layers of paint off as well as I thought. I will live with it for now and then maybe take the door down this winter and do some more sanding.

I actually took the door down to strip, after this initial attempt. 

And this is where we are right now:

I also did a little landscaping (again not my most favorite thing!) It was so empty without the overgrown shrubs (aka small forest) It's OK for now!

Next on the list, more painting, a new bathroom cabinet and... Cleaning. Not looking forward to that. But I am looking forward to fall. And the home tour!