Four Week "Wait-No-More" Organizing Challenge! Week 3 - Master Bathroom Organization (and a link party)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I couldn't be more excited about the change I made to our Master Bathroom space this week.  It is the end of week three of the four week "<a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing.html" target="_blank">Wait No More Challenge!</a>", and I have been checking off some major "to do's" from our list.  In fact, each week our lives have gotten better and happier as I tackle the major home-front pains we have been feeling. <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjewlLGu7c5e3JamjLfCPgxPh7g3bBOs98jyJk8X5Jp7bXeKHGBcGk_NHxi2DKRGsxJ85Ufy4dOdrtonZP5HHuH8Xsp7HX3TRmA9JwHHGwpn5hkCH8R1jZPZZhElOPi9eklOqfjweTFDJk/s1600/Organizing_Challenge_Help_Kit_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjewlLGu7c5e3JamjLfCPgxPh7g3bBOs98jyJk8X5Jp7bXeKHGBcGk_NHxi2DKRGsxJ85Ufy4dOdrtonZP5HHuH8Xsp7HX3TRmA9JwHHGwpn5hkCH8R1jZPZZhElOPi9eklOqfjweTFDJk/s1600/Organizing_Challenge_Help_Kit_Header.png"></a></div><br>This update has been a long time coming, as our Master Bathroom is used multiple times per day, yet has really suffered some neglect.  My youngest started getting in a habit of using our bathroom and many of his belongings were taking over... <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ys8wqr2w57Px7YnR6TAdwnzXAQIPdG-_64j_vquBeabnG2CrZYALX1cUhgKhfvYaQBUekfbFFW5N6LgxwpqljKNg1VccduMAUDM3SMrkkaNeqVAp9G2yQubRb6C5cJHe-WaFpjHp0aGo/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ys8wqr2w57Px7YnR6TAdwnzXAQIPdG-_64j_vquBeabnG2CrZYALX1cUhgKhfvYaQBUekfbFFW5N6LgxwpqljKNg1VccduMAUDM3SMrkkaNeqVAp9G2yQubRb6C5cJHe-WaFpjHp0aGo/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_4.jpg"></a></div><br>OK, not a cool mom move.  Majority of the mess was mine, his bathroom belongings were a minimal part of the problem.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUctmVSJWFkhJ5AJctlS9nQH-yrYijob6GV4rlYuFGGSK4NZa-yYX0GvhAgpxZd3VWU7mNayIq9CBILqylsAHaywEaNnwF_S2IXCSkPoiJO-U_EK0VU2ytZi7ET4AfN5ObRiy99MrlOV5V/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUctmVSJWFkhJ5AJctlS9nQH-yrYijob6GV4rlYuFGGSK4NZa-yYX0GvhAgpxZd3VWU7mNayIq9CBILqylsAHaywEaNnwF_S2IXCSkPoiJO-U_EK0VU2ytZi7ET4AfN5ObRiy99MrlOV5V/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_1.jpg"></a></div><br>You can read about the planning process <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing_23.html" target="_blank">here</a>.  I started by removing everything not affixed to the floor, and even gave the room a fresh coat of paint to tone things down a bit.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmhMu3JS1I-0voJdR_0c1T7rFKbRin6BbgsodD7HWxf-jifrUB_xw8esty_OhtiIe0rRwYXeQ2EHrL-iSjvseEtW-v-8ui09nuXsKjjaSNQR4XqM2XX5EIPhikAb2MUNoEdFvdMMD6wtC/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmhMu3JS1I-0voJdR_0c1T7rFKbRin6BbgsodD7HWxf-jifrUB_xw8esty_OhtiIe0rRwYXeQ2EHrL-iSjvseEtW-v-8ui09nuXsKjjaSNQR4XqM2XX5EIPhikAb2MUNoEdFvdMMD6wtC/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_9.jpg"></a></div><br>The update to the paint color made SUCH a fabulous difference.  The entire room felt twice as big and so much more spa like.  The next step was to <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing_25.html" target="_blank">address the dirty grout</a>, a little Grout Renew made another big difference.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlSuoQgy_0nQqTE0siG5CWMHTSVBtE1YgQoDpTn6YHqYRJsIFMMrzlNv1uE_S7z9e7CyT0I5hxyOsetzAR7VRp9PlKdlWZq-P26y7uw8o-iJlyaUIsVs340v-RL3pYRoO3e5rnWakusw/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlSuoQgy_0nQqTE0siG5CWMHTSVBtE1YgQoDpTn6YHqYRJsIFMMrzlNv1uE_S7z9e7CyT0I5hxyOsetzAR7VRp9PlKdlWZq-P26y7uw8o-iJlyaUIsVs340v-RL3pYRoO3e5rnWakusw/s1600/DIY_Grout_Renew_12.jpg"></a></div><br>Although I really wanted to freshen up this space and prolong a down-the-road bathroom renovation, I didn't want to spend a fortune.  I purchased two new shelf brackets, two storage boxes and two glass canisters.  The rest of the changes came as a result of shopping our home and doing a major decluttering and organizing session.  <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8UR0nXPlMGtyLG4QnS5jk3Awp__DaJIcyWyeZCxFiIeXTDhjpHRkmZo8CdtaX9K-1CsFoQNnnwWUGJPBNddA2m8M_xUHVY2098sTpInAqE4GswYL8gtmC2mFONBPiXwq819N9VzP7-A/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8UR0nXPlMGtyLG4QnS5jk3Awp__DaJIcyWyeZCxFiIeXTDhjpHRkmZo8CdtaX9K-1CsFoQNnnwWUGJPBNddA2m8M_xUHVY2098sTpInAqE4GswYL8gtmC2mFONBPiXwq819N9VzP7-A/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_11.jpg"></a></div><br>Hello beautiful new-old bathroom!  Such a difference a day makes!<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-kfGydbCjNb9Dy6ddYPwm_b-jzznJ4mD6sXfHfslrDxWr-owPNFdAKdqIaAGd5J82UlKH1bCmarfoXGDCeItvVhqXT12VikX_D9BdDoISLpNeTIa2WSVf6-YDy5_czQLJmCyyECSCuR0/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-kfGydbCjNb9Dy6ddYPwm_b-jzznJ4mD6sXfHfslrDxWr-owPNFdAKdqIaAGd5J82UlKH1bCmarfoXGDCeItvVhqXT12VikX_D9BdDoISLpNeTIa2WSVf6-YDy5_czQLJmCyyECSCuR0/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_10.jpg"></a></div><br>A reader asked what I do with old decor as I switch things around, I will cover all of those details in a future post, but look at the benefit of getting creative with things you already have.  The mirror was in <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/11/master-bedroom-refresh-result.html" target="_blank">our Master Bedroom</a>, but I feel like it was always meant to be here.  I couldn't be more smitten about the natural wood paired with the new wall color.  Sure, it will drive a game of musical mirrors, but a little change is a good thing.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7SutU_l5DBq-Uly1AICNWgcQzxAwBYd3BU69emtuZ8YBoDSP1Ip7UzBKUdw7d8EdPZTtzwx8suU3yV-fX7hT2IVOKPmZB0qu0Bk7cWL15O86lu30Mgyi1hxUEQDjQH4bqu8L15t1dYC8/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7SutU_l5DBq-Uly1AICNWgcQzxAwBYd3BU69emtuZ8YBoDSP1Ip7UzBKUdw7d8EdPZTtzwx8suU3yV-fX7hT2IVOKPmZB0qu0Bk7cWL15O86lu30Mgyi1hxUEQDjQH4bqu8L15t1dYC8/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_13.jpg"></a></div><br>The previous wall shelf was so shallow, it couldn't hold most of our main bathroom items.  After I purged everything down, I realized I didn't really need it at all any longer.  But I did want to fill the space above the toilet with a place for greens, a candle and cotton swabs.  I purchased two new gorgeous <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/28288082.jsp?color=008#/" target="_blank">shelf brackets</a> and for the shelf we cut down a piece of wood we already had.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGuJNHbkVgpuL-2tRw4vs4dM4DVYpAiTszs7AOkTiQf9nVXgWDmfvQ8BbCWn-ZXMqBNpHbXAaa3JS2izePkC_EsYKkkRLTUrie7s76V8owPMN0dR0yXaNMILL73qH5VtIPOCDg00y2JJ4/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGuJNHbkVgpuL-2tRw4vs4dM4DVYpAiTszs7AOkTiQf9nVXgWDmfvQ8BbCWn-ZXMqBNpHbXAaa3JS2izePkC_EsYKkkRLTUrie7s76V8owPMN0dR0yXaNMILL73qH5VtIPOCDg00y2JJ4/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_27.jpg"></a></div><br>I dug out a spare frame and printed one of my own photos to use as inexpensive art.  The photo is of a peony in our backyard, the greens are from the same peony bush.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3iW-gPsiB980XRQwELL2EuDOvaulIJ4VaPtrD_KOE0R5iDwiBd2CGhp26ZTVRI03U651NCcKIzbMoXGitmhet-is7gBS9NNVp_tCS9YKBhYOZ_UgbucB5qHXm109kbMuaDrzj0bXfr3g/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3iW-gPsiB980XRQwELL2EuDOvaulIJ4VaPtrD_KOE0R5iDwiBd2CGhp26ZTVRI03U651NCcKIzbMoXGitmhet-is7gBS9NNVp_tCS9YKBhYOZ_UgbucB5qHXm109kbMuaDrzj0bXfr3g/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_5.jpg"></a></div><br>I did purchase two <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-oil-can-bath-coordinates/-/A-14327504#?lnk=sc_qi_detaillink" target="_blank">canisters from Target</a> to use for cotton products.  I had my eyes on <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-bath-bathaccessories/690035.jsp#/" target="_blank">these</a>, but didn't want to shell out the extra cash just to have gold lids.  So the ones from Target received a coat of spray paint paired with some gold Rub-n-Buff for a similar effect.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMS-5_bIS19m18cu2rgcHH-t5dkZk2VUhKNKwLtTJRWRk_iNclfib-60KUWpm0uxtk5aLH13cIKsYyo9vYxhI0cANZGulpKRhBDLyyIdgks7mgPmn1BSwXQWlE8Qb-5QSe1YGFP2D93E/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMS-5_bIS19m18cu2rgcHH-t5dkZk2VUhKNKwLtTJRWRk_iNclfib-60KUWpm0uxtk5aLH13cIKsYyo9vYxhI0cANZGulpKRhBDLyyIdgks7mgPmn1BSwXQWlE8Qb-5QSe1YGFP2D93E/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_4.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvjp_Bo6vn-TSTcD6ENoRzeqz9vFjXzGD_1dW0LlrxBwvm1FjVUsV2bDdYay67wmfFg-Ow9KknWOfQ5NAKpHhZtGGxs5i-EenL-ByqHYJJMRj8Gbhxh6RyVPWBH848AQHWY-vEqzflyo/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvjp_Bo6vn-TSTcD6ENoRzeqz9vFjXzGD_1dW0LlrxBwvm1FjVUsV2bDdYay67wmfFg-Ow9KknWOfQ5NAKpHhZtGGxs5i-EenL-ByqHYJJMRj8Gbhxh6RyVPWBH848AQHWY-vEqzflyo/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_26.jpg"></a></div><br>After I was able to relocate many of the bathroom items back to their proper homes, I found that I had plenty of room to put everything else back (children's items were put back in their bathroom, travel toiletries were moved to our closet pile and other random items were also put away).  This time, I made sure to really assess how we use the bathroom and put things away according to our daily habits.  Here is a quick tour of each cabinet and drawer.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnZsQRc_Fm1qv6XzzJDt0xT6YpjjL8Mt0N2KCelPL1xjXpCNA2AqDrl7zFCjeuB69DUy-3pG0DYfv6qowx_b5XZjKE8j0z2s5_wlfVGwUeCdhK1ZKXkXeN9Y2oos12eA53bMOCUKVs2Y/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnZsQRc_Fm1qv6XzzJDt0xT6YpjjL8Mt0N2KCelPL1xjXpCNA2AqDrl7zFCjeuB69DUy-3pG0DYfv6qowx_b5XZjKE8j0z2s5_wlfVGwUeCdhK1ZKXkXeN9Y2oos12eA53bMOCUKVs2Y/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_14.jpg"></a></div><br>I have been using a nail caddy for years now, and still love it.  It just received a quick cleaning and a little re-arranging and it went right back where it was living.  I lost the hardware for the handle somewhere along the way.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9uSxKEhtImTUucvZCbyDQcypX416lYUWWXvk5ELhRfkvw8vEzdC2OpaxsQ5uXtR90qf8p37dhFX7v5RyR8EVU_-o-dtof2-El46RGgfzNx5zGLtNQr3WEHzcAdLr4NezR-qXV3RABI8/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9uSxKEhtImTUucvZCbyDQcypX416lYUWWXvk5ELhRfkvw8vEzdC2OpaxsQ5uXtR90qf8p37dhFX7v5RyR8EVU_-o-dtof2-El46RGgfzNx5zGLtNQr3WEHzcAdLr4NezR-qXV3RABI8/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_32.jpg"></a></div><br><i><span style="color: #999999;"><b>Quick tip:</b></span> When displaying daily toiletries in glass faced cabinets or inside of acrylic organizers, simply remove any package labeling that may be distracting.  The nail polish removal bottle now looks more decorative than it did when the giant label was showing through.</i><br><br>As I mentioned, I ended up purchasing two decorative storage boxes.  One holds cotton pads for face washing and nail polish removal. <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC8YmsEvmXbFJDXgPBDCvNXiBOUmqV0pegbu93ht3x8OXN958LUau6Qd4u0HmV-KL9ydqywlQTmxs83piD8acn1oidTlTkkkIcRBnxQLn0UIIqOnxBVEWj8TSq3hOtDDYfzX5krJ4DXo8/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC8YmsEvmXbFJDXgPBDCvNXiBOUmqV0pegbu93ht3x8OXN958LUau6Qd4u0HmV-KL9ydqywlQTmxs83piD8acn1oidTlTkkkIcRBnxQLn0UIIqOnxBVEWj8TSq3hOtDDYfzX5krJ4DXo8/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_17.jpg"></a></div><br>While the other is now the home to my hair accessories.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY87h5PqWkHuPp03GLIsEgCU2H5xnWwVfa_35NgX4R3GbIXZXoEPSD9MdIyue149ho15SeeCRgAoOzrbm8f-is2NywIxaSs_GEdNXyVcahlz-EwHE2Qpk15NR6UKxEd3zzdTGjCFapDmI/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY87h5PqWkHuPp03GLIsEgCU2H5xnWwVfa_35NgX4R3GbIXZXoEPSD9MdIyue149ho15SeeCRgAoOzrbm8f-is2NywIxaSs_GEdNXyVcahlz-EwHE2Qpk15NR6UKxEd3zzdTGjCFapDmI/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_2.jpg"></a></div><br>Previously, my hair ties (a.k.a. Loom Bands) and hair pins were spread out all over our home and a hot mess in the bottom of my makeup bag....<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWAc0icAdTUho6EIgCswwjjoO3gBlN3zJZtGgrvU8vDuCPuI6vauNvy1t5wfnKDFXuQB_7L_jgANpJgy10YV9Pk4j8OueoV-wxQdjfZ_lCkBQfRDy1DZmgN3P4LXEwDvka4NRySVolBA/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWAc0icAdTUho6EIgCswwjjoO3gBlN3zJZtGgrvU8vDuCPuI6vauNvy1t5wfnKDFXuQB_7L_jgANpJgy10YV9Pk4j8OueoV-wxQdjfZ_lCkBQfRDy1DZmgN3P4LXEwDvka4NRySVolBA/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_1.jpg"></a></div><br>The small box paired with some folded cardstock for dividers, now keeps each type of hair accessory nicely divided, yet easy to take out and put away.<br><br>Our original "His" and "Hers" baskets were working out nicely, but they were short and added to the visual clutter inside of the cabinet.  They both were paired down to daily necessities, and Bryan's items now live in a taller basket inside of the cabinet (so when he tosses items back inside, the mess won't be visible). <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFs_10yuSjuy6wBTPvt26cZlR3QaNR_iBRBrecO1cqtWKYwDWYccASd12ewf0xhA8g93pI9SfW1-cSa_t_xhZB6a8VujaZwiczLxLcuYHls-FRvg-Js9LZEPoY6rmXEl_nlRLkPyrSCY/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFs_10yuSjuy6wBTPvt26cZlR3QaNR_iBRBrecO1cqtWKYwDWYccASd12ewf0xhA8g93pI9SfW1-cSa_t_xhZB6a8VujaZwiczLxLcuYHls-FRvg-Js9LZEPoY6rmXEl_nlRLkPyrSCY/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_16.jpg"></a></div><br>My daily supplies now live in a bin hanging on the back of our door.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdI7-nKtclOfyuR7O_h_IrbIkUMhFLbQY9w_CUWajylAcNRkS0hxkGIFxqwiwkleBaqf-2hobczKNG-madShm1LicouvSzBBfZ2bjpgB0h5qRlL8B9m6A1K_wQOdb6msaKiipAhgU250/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdI7-nKtclOfyuR7O_h_IrbIkUMhFLbQY9w_CUWajylAcNRkS0hxkGIFxqwiwkleBaqf-2hobczKNG-madShm1LicouvSzBBfZ2bjpgB0h5qRlL8B9m6A1K_wQOdb6msaKiipAhgU250/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_31.jpg"></a></div><br>I had multiple miscellaneous canisters of bath salts, which I condensed down to a single jar.  I used one of the empty containers to now hold our dental floss.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskqmaUA08PGZjp7Ovsold32IFU2iPQ1uUegyoEz2gz6jUJ9YSnlH9eBKGqutHVwQ_jr-1_BxDKbpN_5cI7IBfFgPVTONLujKYfvqOX3tusOat5ZpL4Zl_8xaqbciZDFZyCRU6JUf2wOA/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskqmaUA08PGZjp7Ovsold32IFU2iPQ1uUegyoEz2gz6jUJ9YSnlH9eBKGqutHVwQ_jr-1_BxDKbpN_5cI7IBfFgPVTONLujKYfvqOX3tusOat5ZpL4Zl_8xaqbciZDFZyCRU6JUf2wOA/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_15.jpg"></a></div><br>Before, the drawers had organizers and held a variety of our supplies, but with little distinction between them, they all just become dumping grounds....<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimNmsPNJot47uM3qAvntYWwQ1_fl_msNSFn4mTtByYHxuzCJOny7j6Dq1soGYNLnclDHF-qo2bK7W8ShRl6SK2gEvYE5cKPhMJCrWV4ikUJGqoyx4YDZbCGQp9ONzIVROicTJzLXJ14WYF/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimNmsPNJot47uM3qAvntYWwQ1_fl_msNSFn4mTtByYHxuzCJOny7j6Dq1soGYNLnclDHF-qo2bK7W8ShRl6SK2gEvYE5cKPhMJCrWV4ikUJGqoyx4YDZbCGQp9ONzIVROicTJzLXJ14WYF/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_2.jpg"></a></div><br>The drawers received a good scrub and were still showing signs of wear, so I got out some drawer liner and cut a few sheets down to size.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDMgVFfZLXgrk3QAPK477dRKV4NLZ1QwfqEmgE2GHy-mtg8Cyq5-BSvcTg6M1UNLMdcztVslkga4S5NW8Q7MbR3tb9GEPqx3szGYUb9Bvn9QA7p9UwncEOaK45SLLaHvsHCWEo_o6uys/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDMgVFfZLXgrk3QAPK477dRKV4NLZ1QwfqEmgE2GHy-mtg8Cyq5-BSvcTg6M1UNLMdcztVslkga4S5NW8Q7MbR3tb9GEPqx3szGYUb9Bvn9QA7p9UwncEOaK45SLLaHvsHCWEo_o6uys/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_3.jpg"></a></div>  <br>This time around, I assigned each drawer a specific duty.  Top drawer holds all of my facial care supplies.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8VVRhKnskMxlcqbau4iN0em9R3Pd3_17hGtQUL78gjyq4pSvCeE29R1ye90hxlyWCcumyy45z1xiv1d1zKTtETn8ILpfnkEAn88rV0Be87bZLoS9dpOT74rAPNnPEe3BjAztFdZZIZo/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8VVRhKnskMxlcqbau4iN0em9R3Pd3_17hGtQUL78gjyq4pSvCeE29R1ye90hxlyWCcumyy45z1xiv1d1zKTtETn8ILpfnkEAn88rV0Be87bZLoS9dpOT74rAPNnPEe3BjAztFdZZIZo/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_18.jpg"></a></div><br>While the next drawer now holds extra dental care items.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2yKLar40vCm65LxC-TX9rzsG9vIlrG2xQiWTfHlAvExFukj-0dDlcst3GadUAN7jDivpd4UVENeh3MIjc9VcoI-FwtjipGcKEY5e5MXf6qwPH7GtVrOipvGyzfpZPtYPFI_3FtFoAyM/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2yKLar40vCm65LxC-TX9rzsG9vIlrG2xQiWTfHlAvExFukj-0dDlcst3GadUAN7jDivpd4UVENeh3MIjc9VcoI-FwtjipGcKEY5e5MXf6qwPH7GtVrOipvGyzfpZPtYPFI_3FtFoAyM/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_19.jpg"></a></div><br>And the bottom drawer still rocks as hair tool storage (placed inside of empty quart sized paint cans).<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4KOP8isR_jdk5WsWG3l2WaVZG7jno-TBmnyn30FLEjW-RjehyDFELmesXY5TSCRK8ZGHuBKngDDjlI-1t_KfXQh2zKGHey7ICfdpn65ZSuFm1n9BkGmgSRKpMFOq49WodlDfwC_RJXmI/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4KOP8isR_jdk5WsWG3l2WaVZG7jno-TBmnyn30FLEjW-RjehyDFELmesXY5TSCRK8ZGHuBKngDDjlI-1t_KfXQh2zKGHey7ICfdpn65ZSuFm1n9BkGmgSRKpMFOq49WodlDfwC_RJXmI/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_20.jpg"></a></div><br>Now the only items in each vanity drawer are a single toothbrush and tube of toothpaste.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIukpduPF6oJQaGBtLnBhIJbROX1OsgwOrquqgR04nvYs4vGu8Z0fNwzs6IojQeOjXZGhXm1IN-6As0xw7XHmI0JjWSMgwaYl0xRdIUnIKrizoaWuGuNs1LOeoxkTmG26YrTVLuXYbNc/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIukpduPF6oJQaGBtLnBhIJbROX1OsgwOrquqgR04nvYs4vGu8Z0fNwzs6IojQeOjXZGhXm1IN-6As0xw7XHmI0JjWSMgwaYl0xRdIUnIKrizoaWuGuNs1LOeoxkTmG26YrTVLuXYbNc/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_21.jpg"></a></div><br>Under the sink is similar to prior days, one pull out drawer holds all of our bathroom cleaning products.  <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBu7fM5EE5MDoKdXIirvj_-E7DMl2XVLL3chbkbtrb21JUFvymSqXxeraq8197MhSFjLJT9DB-PXI0wTzWauVzu9T8O7JipWYZZe8KXGXKKqrPyMGQHi-9jZZmKI6DBBCxQ8Gkrlbf6s/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBu7fM5EE5MDoKdXIirvj_-E7DMl2XVLL3chbkbtrb21JUFvymSqXxeraq8197MhSFjLJT9DB-PXI0wTzWauVzu9T8O7JipWYZZe8KXGXKKqrPyMGQHi-9jZZmKI6DBBCxQ8Gkrlbf6s/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_22.jpg"></a></div><br>I can't get enough of these <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/office/paperFileStorage/portable?productId=10022942" target="_blank">Multi-Purpose bins</a>, they are inexpensive, easy to clean, light weight, narrow and can function for endless organizing tasks.  In the past I tried to do stacking bins for cleaning supplies, but these just work so much better for daily use.  One bin for cleaning products and one for dirty rags.<br><br>The other drawer holds the toiletry items that I don't use each day, but didn't want to purge because they still get used on a weekly or as-needed basis.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ8SWS4dYCkC6K-MsO8Tm8sYavyZ8a2ky_DevgB3G6ZEdqJZ72V45e_AIQDM2-GG0deVcUVL5VqH7qVlmZsmY7iRQpfXELz_Jy0qUpYSbKcBGHfABiIJ7WpucwmWJ2RPj3eac5rZGDwsY/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ8SWS4dYCkC6K-MsO8Tm8sYavyZ8a2ky_DevgB3G6ZEdqJZ72V45e_AIQDM2-GG0deVcUVL5VqH7qVlmZsmY7iRQpfXELz_Jy0qUpYSbKcBGHfABiIJ7WpucwmWJ2RPj3eac5rZGDwsY/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_23.jpg"></a></div><br>On the opposite side of the room, we removed the hand towel rack from the wall.  It was just a clutter catcher and we are ultimately going to install a door to our closet, so we have to get use to the lack of wall storage anyway.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0-yVrjoKb45lH8F9oPD0OVxpNulL-f1PnZ-g2g2j9FAbuPYStoNRdCzzpVz4TN4M4ppSwEX-svzMkHlXQLhnivexa8sIKQw3pYDlsnLkrqul1tLrTJGe_mbBDK_fRQoBOOB2djNN_ds/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0-yVrjoKb45lH8F9oPD0OVxpNulL-f1PnZ-g2g2j9FAbuPYStoNRdCzzpVz4TN4M4ppSwEX-svzMkHlXQLhnivexa8sIKQw3pYDlsnLkrqul1tLrTJGe_mbBDK_fRQoBOOB2djNN_ds/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_12.jpg"></a></div><br>As you can see above, the shower was also purged down and empty bottles were recycled. <br><br>The small stool received a new coat of paint and works great for holding a towel and robe while showering.  We only keep two towels per family member, so while two are being used, two clean ones are waiting in the basket on the hamper.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_lhWPE-w2_cf6lcfhfoRVyOm7S7q1QNqJOm6x0uf_xOqXAySemn2hXgWtt86_MsLria9rjjHAon70zf5_sGT9S1aezlxJMX-W3VUFFd5ZgLpqlpvf8Orbhw3D43YyIhthN4eN7uR-pI/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_lhWPE-w2_cf6lcfhfoRVyOm7S7q1QNqJOm6x0uf_xOqXAySemn2hXgWtt86_MsLria9rjjHAon70zf5_sGT9S1aezlxJMX-W3VUFFd5ZgLpqlpvf8Orbhw3D43YyIhthN4eN7uR-pI/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_25.jpg"></a></div><br>And that completes the Master Bathroom tour!  So fresh, clean and organized and such a dramatic difference from what we have been living with.  Even after taking my first shower in the space, I felt so much more relaxed than I had been previously.  There is something to be said about the impact that visual clutter can have on your feelings.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBRjmxpUTnnlNJfZZi614c9s9UFY_0jzW1txKFIc0UDw5wGTMTvR1kA9x19CN5AZdetPNe8Bpebpx_5h8aMQt0X_csCPIBgtxXprtBAUGoNoscQfURiXqAO4PfFCWKNFDyGMgvmYQQfNE/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBRjmxpUTnnlNJfZZi614c9s9UFY_0jzW1txKFIc0UDw5wGTMTvR1kA9x19CN5AZdetPNe8Bpebpx_5h8aMQt0X_csCPIBgtxXprtBAUGoNoscQfURiXqAO4PfFCWKNFDyGMgvmYQQfNE/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_28.jpg"></a></div><br>Between painting the walls, updating the grout, small DIY's, completely purging and reorganizing the space, I easily invested 12 hours into this project.  However, I don't regret a single second of the time spent.  <br><br>To really celebrate this week's hard work, let's check out a few side-by-sides of the before and after pictures.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmOB0FNq5kjK5R0GCS1Q6FRpwXhlSmSTrava7-B2-IfbtFDromIwWaT5yUi85QddSi7eG2U8SWJZyewItL65JDXFR95-j_Q-FfwAibverkdtxYRS-nZDUrKU0lxot_ybUhvbsWNO-I7k/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_Before_After_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmOB0FNq5kjK5R0GCS1Q6FRpwXhlSmSTrava7-B2-IfbtFDromIwWaT5yUi85QddSi7eG2U8SWJZyewItL65JDXFR95-j_Q-FfwAibverkdtxYRS-nZDUrKU0lxot_ybUhvbsWNO-I7k/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_Before_After_1.png"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnvT9HeqKck01XvtG3xgSqJ8NJvRQ4pLJgBO4RsDmr8U7LSfhZ2sAe8PIW-edWJUQg6OnT1QErxQcByj7ZMmwqcpQuVKJfkIjIXp7oOCZUtWQagIyf8UtP08LBsNEdY5R5sUY75wbdMU/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_Before_After_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnvT9HeqKck01XvtG3xgSqJ8NJvRQ4pLJgBO4RsDmr8U7LSfhZ2sAe8PIW-edWJUQg6OnT1QErxQcByj7ZMmwqcpQuVKJfkIjIXp7oOCZUtWQagIyf8UtP08LBsNEdY5R5sUY75wbdMU/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_Before_After_2.png"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQWTZTfgcMK4rAUyblejZmmEaDymSuuODKxriTYZdYvdsWshywmvqHB6_691dM-NZEC9OKmmr4xxH_uMDIz1O7oXPEA9CFWJ-pjazaGA13kfq5FGKSgZBxLzwrjLtaoJeOylnCaIbkF2Y/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_Before_After_3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQWTZTfgcMK4rAUyblejZmmEaDymSuuODKxriTYZdYvdsWshywmvqHB6_691dM-NZEC9OKmmr4xxH_uMDIz1O7oXPEA9CFWJ-pjazaGA13kfq5FGKSgZBxLzwrjLtaoJeOylnCaIbkF2Y/s1600/Bathroom_Oraganization_Before_After_3.png"></a></div><br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-IXFFCvKt7hl2yK9R2Y8b4rriVuJidQMBGFIN9zbnHKVWyiXzzmvswBhyphenhyphenp_7paBbO7ejjaDRAT-VA-Eck7iEALnTIT62X-IqOXRUURY3vyqVBntifhQoCxmunvdBKrUeQXAeifdXKM4p/s1600/GiftCardsWinMe.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-IXFFCvKt7hl2yK9R2Y8b4rriVuJidQMBGFIN9zbnHKVWyiXzzmvswBhyphenhyphenp_7paBbO7ejjaDRAT-VA-Eck7iEALnTIT62X-IqOXRUURY3vyqVBntifhQoCxmunvdBKrUeQXAeifdXKM4p/s1600/GiftCardsWinMe.png"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now!  Who wants to win a $50 Gift Certificate to <a href="http://theorganizingstore.com/" target="_blank">The Organizing Store</a>!?  Whether I am DIY'ing my own organizer or purchasing something for a project, I love finding storage that is pretty and meshes with our home and decor.  The Organizing Store is a prime "go-to" spot for the most beautiful, current, trendy and stunning organizing supplies around.  Using <a href="http://random.org/">random.org</a>, one link party participant will be selected to win the gift card at the end of this week's challenge <i>(no need to participate each week to win)</i>!  Time to share your Week 3 stories and projects with me!</div><!-- start InLinkz script --><br><div class="InLinkzContainer" id="539536"><a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/view.php?id=539536" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div><script src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116" type="text/javascript"></script><br>I really have been in awe of the projects you are sharing each week!  And each party is receiving between 35,000-50,000+ views!  Let's keep the organizing momentum going this week!<br><br>You can find all of the challenge details in this post <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and also download some FREE project planning printables to help you get started!<br><br><i>Have a great weekend everyone!</i><br><br>

Four Week "Wait-No-More" Organizing Challenge! Week 3 - Master Bathroom Organization (and a link party)

I couldn't be more excited about the change I made to our Master Bathroom space this week.  It is the end of week three of the four week...

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IHeart Kitchen Reno: Four Weeks Later!

Wow!  Another month has come and gone since <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/04/iheart-kitchen-reno-chandelier-island.html" target="_blank">our previous kitchen update</a>.  I was really hoping that we would be able to wrangle both kitchen and living room projects and updates all at once, but the living room sort of took over at the end, both on the blog and in our lives.  After the last update, I had a few questions I will be chatting through today, and I will also be sharing a few big things that have happened over the past few weeks.  Although we were so focused on <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/search/label/One%20Room%20Challenge" target="_blank">the living room side</a>, there are quite a few changes here as well.  It is finally starting to look and act more like the space we have been working for!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs40WriN19GVsMRPt7c3nD43thTNd0CaO85OLuxjQicX7A20xGBSAZxiEMqcXHM2Ji3Djv2tAcodJOdDPlV9_JRMUn-RgKra8dUPA4hNlQR5Z1ADZBxqUF_Cj3URv0wCLFp2_B83MovkvS/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs40WriN19GVsMRPt7c3nD43thTNd0CaO85OLuxjQicX7A20xGBSAZxiEMqcXHM2Ji3Djv2tAcodJOdDPlV9_JRMUn-RgKra8dUPA4hNlQR5Z1ADZBxqUF_Cj3URv0wCLFp2_B83MovkvS/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />Based on the photo above, I am guessing there are a few differences that stand out from the last update.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFPrOfJ05Ow1pZ4A3WarhYE5Zp_DAk0wf66FwwBQ7M2y7gztpuM0bbXZgfkBSBxPO-RhnuZoJ-tszQIR0AVlDyEEArDnTXBR2ns3yM7XURTCY-za8yTB-9TDXdpNWyJ_vQSZrUH1GcKLT/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_Update_Side-by-Side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFPrOfJ05Ow1pZ4A3WarhYE5Zp_DAk0wf66FwwBQ7M2y7gztpuM0bbXZgfkBSBxPO-RhnuZoJ-tszQIR0AVlDyEEArDnTXBR2ns3yM7XURTCY-za8yTB-9TDXdpNWyJ_vQSZrUH1GcKLT/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_Update_Side-by-Side.jpg" /></a></div><br />We installed and set the island as soon as we could, which allowed us to finish installing our flooring.  That was a major game changer.  Like wow.  It really unified our entire kitchen and living area and added so much more warmth in contrast to all of the white.  And it is so clean!  Looking back at <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/04/iheart-kitchen-reno-chandelier-island.html" target="_blank">the last post</a>, my photos seemed to have a blue hue which was throwing some you off.  I totally get it, I just revisited the photos and they are pretty bad.  My guess is that much of it had to do with the cloudy day paired with reflections bouncing off of all of the white.  Not really sure.  The picture above is a much truer photo of how our kitchen really reads, especially now that the floors ground things a bit more (floor installation post coming soon).<br /><br />Some of you asked about measurements... We currently have about 3 1/2 feet between the outer cabinets and island.  We always read that between three and four feet is best, and we have been really happy with the amount of room and flow that the 3 1/2' provides.  We are able to easily navigate around the dishwasher when it is completely pulled out for unloading, and the refrigerator has plenty of room to open and get around without any crowding (more on that in a minute).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When coming up with a kitchen design, we were extremely limited with where we could place our oven and stove.  Our fridge and pantry had to go on the outer walls, and with the window and plumbing on the outer walls as well, we had no other choice than to place our cooking pieces in the island.  In the end, I am happy it worked out this way as we will be able to face the living area while we cook (great for watching the fam and television).  We also had to go with a larger island to accommodate the oven, cooktop and downdraft without compromising countertop work surface space and to provide enough distance between the cooktop and stools on the opposite side.  This allowed us to add a lot more storage in the island, so it all worked out in the end.  Plus, I got the oven I was lusting after for a couple of years!  It is a beautiful white glass option which was originally purchased from IKEA (and was discontinued when they released their new kitchen line).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_sJO1Y8eh8I6W3l87QnEq7m-fkWXK7058_sfn2191i1G7kSBy5tZh7h7Gj4Uk_3KgJojjkLxEtDyeh8bcoEe0K5NNBRorfRBm_KGB1yzoQdKmo8PqaZ6IMtW5XyInvPykLnmbsvOzSNmS/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_sJO1Y8eh8I6W3l87QnEq7m-fkWXK7058_sfn2191i1G7kSBy5tZh7h7Gj4Uk_3KgJojjkLxEtDyeh8bcoEe0K5NNBRorfRBm_KGB1yzoQdKmo8PqaZ6IMtW5XyInvPykLnmbsvOzSNmS/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_16.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can see, we also installed the remainder of the hardware on the island cabinets to match the rest of the kitchen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzIXxJrE2HhT-38POhzJGH5WIb2s-1DEeyExjxNPZSZd2kXpxhvOIASb0su9Gci9PF1tTK9yKTYnyLQksm1wDmmOEiCnXStDT3NWhyfDHaYMc6CuyG_D-_SKK055wqfbrNxP-m5EfJVBe/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzIXxJrE2HhT-38POhzJGH5WIb2s-1DEeyExjxNPZSZd2kXpxhvOIASb0su9Gci9PF1tTK9yKTYnyLQksm1wDmmOEiCnXStDT3NWhyfDHaYMc6CuyG_D-_SKK055wqfbrNxP-m5EfJVBe/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_14.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also received a couple questions and emails regarding the island details.  The doors are full overlay, meaning that there is very little cabinet frame showing around each door and drawer front.  It creates more of a seamless appearance and is also quite similar to our IKEA white cabinets across the way.  The color is an option offered by the cabinet company that built the pieces, so I don't have a specific name or number (other than a generic Slate), but I did have it color matched at Sherwin Williams and you can see the code <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdseRL3wnuQSq6XPfaYfToh-bXmd-5Q2D1EIMAEbMZ0q83MZqCfBx2Mka18NU1a4tljlaG7sYRCaano7DQofcsIp2XvuZ_3tmXDkGHFL2IrnN11UFEibPq05-rlUXstYtSLj28rvsO-6uS/s1600/Photo+Apr+15,+11+42+01+AM.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.  It is a beautiful color in person, just extremely challenging to photograph because it reads a bit differently depending on how the light hits it (as illustrated between the photos above and below).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUpwHwXQhov5ju3x7tGiSykH_EYAThN_p_i8YHUsRVDjDyXmz3VMFj8hb4lrrY5v6HaMM3Reeg73R8jxkSsZzI8ZWpfW77ce2R8qbRQ6QKelWzfoM0IwduHcqz6e7dJoQX8yFm7rO2pKrn/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_8-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUpwHwXQhov5ju3x7tGiSykH_EYAThN_p_i8YHUsRVDjDyXmz3VMFj8hb4lrrY5v6HaMM3Reeg73R8jxkSsZzI8ZWpfW77ce2R8qbRQ6QKelWzfoM0IwduHcqz6e7dJoQX8yFm7rO2pKrn/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_8-2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You may also have noticed that we only have about half of our counters installed.  They always say to prepare for the worse when it comes to major home renovations, and we have experienced a few different hiccups along the way.  I think it is just important to know that a few things will go wrong at some point, and do your best not to turn into a <i>Kitchenzilla</i> when they do.  You have heard about our dishwasher saga and maybe also read about our first refrigerator being delivered damaged.  Both were no big deal in my eyes.  Truly nothing to get upset about and maybe they simply prepared us for the next uh-oh.  The day the beautiful counters arrived to be installed, we went to place our oven into the oven cavity of the custom cabinets.  Guess what guys!  It didn't fit.  Um, what?  The cabinet was built to the dimension of the appliances we had already purchased.  They were able to install the outer counters and sink while they were here, and now that we have since been able to figure out the cabinet situation and set our oven, will be coming back next week to finish things up (counters can typically be set without the oven installed, but we didn't know if our island would need to be taken apart or changed so we opted to wait it out).  As frustrating as the cabinet situation was (it caused a three week delay in the island counter install), the counters are about the most beautiful moment this entire renovation has seen yet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZokq_39abO5iA0WeIeyN0z4BdelXG0u0O1KamQQLHfnOdFHRMmMNGqYdjnUCFJSLsTRlgynGscRDq0TURvWKmt6A86W5eLl1aj4TtWP9mwRG78D_9l77K0k3xCZcAS-kxd2kxQ-dAHMB/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZokq_39abO5iA0WeIeyN0z4BdelXG0u0O1KamQQLHfnOdFHRMmMNGqYdjnUCFJSLsTRlgynGscRDq0TURvWKmt6A86W5eLl1aj4TtWP9mwRG78D_9l77K0k3xCZcAS-kxd2kxQ-dAHMB/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_13.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When we first built our home, I selected green faux marble laminate counters because I was 19 years old and thought they were so cool and grown up (ha).  It only took me about four months to no longer like them.  For the next 13+ years, I was left trying to work with something that I didn't love.  I am pretty positive that experience has scarred me, and may be why a lot of our newer kitchen finishes and selections are a bit more neutral and classic.  Being this is such an investment, we don't want to change things each time a trend comes and goes.  And we don't want to have regrets four months from now (although, I am sure there will still be a few lessons learned).  Just like a lot of the other decisions we have made in the space, we did a lot of reading online when selecting the types of countertops to install.  Ultimately, quartz won out.  Both durability and the fact that it is non-porous (which means it won't harbor bacteria), were the main reasons we selected quartz.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3yaFK4IkhnglAnV_7fnvmP30QYKvvUG5WfJKbu9km6KiT1IRTMGO7T7_WzJ-pT69osZzXo17Ru5TsHIRmJRx2lCFP6yIqB7Dwdbc4W9BCP_l2DayVXwIhrMIET1SnSgBj9BDrgsNMVE1R/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3yaFK4IkhnglAnV_7fnvmP30QYKvvUG5WfJKbu9km6KiT1IRTMGO7T7_WzJ-pT69osZzXo17Ru5TsHIRmJRx2lCFP6yIqB7Dwdbc4W9BCP_l2DayVXwIhrMIET1SnSgBj9BDrgsNMVE1R/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_6.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I don't think we will regret these counters four months or even ten years from now.  They are <a href="http://www.cambriausa.com/en/Designs/design-palette/Torquay/" target="_blank">Cambria in Torquay finish</a> and another thing I am smitten with is that they are manufactured right in Minnesota.  (For local readers, we shopped around and ultimately decided to purchase from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Selective-Countertops-LLC/124570547598151" target="_blank">Selective Countertops</a> and we couldn't be happier with the results).  The veining and colors are a mix of beiges and grays and are quite subtle, almost a marble-like result but in a much more kitchen friendly finish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wVHi_KTT53_7rXw6XAP6lLt4pYHSke2zLSMKWlJvI7zKmuhrmjDlEo4PYerVgDfyU8x_geFi8zBby-pOpZqmXcl_XIfSPdc385VWWbx5uiUS1cHH_RpH2zhQZVCWyk0p17pWNYmFxF0y/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wVHi_KTT53_7rXw6XAP6lLt4pYHSke2zLSMKWlJvI7zKmuhrmjDlEo4PYerVgDfyU8x_geFi8zBby-pOpZqmXcl_XIfSPdc385VWWbx5uiUS1cHH_RpH2zhQZVCWyk0p17pWNYmFxF0y/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_5.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCueKnOrHnEPrZwi8PJnQN9V-qZu7CCKBszMryAE2xli6Aazq2EzVuq-28d659QBuc6n8MgKF5ZqlGcYLcHvIZY3H2kYLNO9z3I-hqMk78UYm_qeEvoJkA_Lqu2gmCT75Ey8QclPmXqw8/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCueKnOrHnEPrZwi8PJnQN9V-qZu7CCKBszMryAE2xli6Aazq2EzVuq-28d659QBuc6n8MgKF5ZqlGcYLcHvIZY3H2kYLNO9z3I-hqMk78UYm_qeEvoJkA_Lqu2gmCT75Ey8QclPmXqw8/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_7.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We also ordered our sink with the counters, and once again, a major difference has been made in how we use the kitchen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1ia7QxlIyF2z3o6IpJG38qzkQ-br-wFFplBX_iiNgy-h-2I3L6lo9XUjXK6I2wrL3wUIwLaj-igq7-uQ2h4LUVyir5OyY_WdZmdlo7Fa3CGbYoyQ-YI6rotCZBRzROSmtXDvVlH7dzKg/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1ia7QxlIyF2z3o6IpJG38qzkQ-br-wFFplBX_iiNgy-h-2I3L6lo9XUjXK6I2wrL3wUIwLaj-igq7-uQ2h4LUVyir5OyY_WdZmdlo7Fa3CGbYoyQ-YI6rotCZBRzROSmtXDvVlH7dzKg/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_12.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The sink is a total of 30" x 17"  and 10" deep.  We went with a stainless split sink, about 2/3 is the main bowl and the side bowl is the remaining 1/3.  And it is all seamless.  I knew I wanted a deeper sink for washing large pots and pans and filling my mop bucket...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VPCFFMRcI4MG0VnT2HxnUorsrukBGO9siKXKpOLC37D07CGCg9pbE4WxcRwyCnPZioFwGoYKLIP-uf5XiXH7fwMcnNhqF6CjRDTkqN6YENpPTNTaSGqqgePvAl4o8D5QCTBBxdoUM1UY/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VPCFFMRcI4MG0VnT2HxnUorsrukBGO9siKXKpOLC37D07CGCg9pbE4WxcRwyCnPZioFwGoYKLIP-uf5XiXH7fwMcnNhqF6CjRDTkqN6YENpPTNTaSGqqgePvAl4o8D5QCTBBxdoUM1UY/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But little did I know it would also be amazing for hiding a pile of dirty dishes when the dishwasher is full/being ran.  Definitely a jumbo sized bonus in an open concept layout.  Another new-to-us feature is a pull out faucet.  The kids and I have been having fun with this!  It reaches all corners of the sink which is great for cleaning, and offers two spray options.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIYYCNC78HPNkBoKCY6Z33VZnrsf1TSQMS5LCc3n1s6vRbLjJQdllSDizwwNYveEpKD1Vx_obu74Vj7aOykWBu_a5m-03d3xpxGeVf3IqyULdZbPfsPWbiSOn-2z2Fe19fuOxCdhyXLMV/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIYYCNC78HPNkBoKCY6Z33VZnrsf1TSQMS5LCc3n1s6vRbLjJQdllSDizwwNYveEpKD1Vx_obu74Vj7aOykWBu_a5m-03d3xpxGeVf3IqyULdZbPfsPWbiSOn-2z2Fe19fuOxCdhyXLMV/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We purchased <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/MOEN-Brantford-Single-Handle-Pull-Down-Sprayer-Kitchen-Faucet-Featuring-Reflex-in-Chrome-7185C/202998687" target="_blank">a model</a> that complimented the cabinet hardware, not super modern but not overly ornate either; it was juuuuust right.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But wait, there is more!  I had no idea how much really has changed in the last month.  Big post today folks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One thing I have been challenged with throughout the entire process, is knowing that we have a garage door to work around.  And it was a previously very unsightly door with about eight different layers of paint and dings and dents.  Although not an ideal setup, moving the door really wasn't an option as there is other place to move it to.  Keep in mind that we really only use the garage for projects, and even when we start parking in there again, we will most likely be carrying in a handbag and groceries.  The boys always come off of the bus and enter through our front door, which is why their belongings are all located there.  So fortunately, we don't need much of a system for more than a pair or two of shoes, maybe keys and some hooks.  But visually, oy!  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our solution was to build the fireplace built-ins in the living room, to mimic the cabinets in the kitchen.  Once the moulding is installed on the kitchen cabinets, they will be the same height and color as the built-ins, as well as the same distance on either side of the door.  Our very lovely new paneled door!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieFAByQYLwaE4DIMnNa5YJ65HRo0xuGjejbr2UWkewP_5THCJ19XM9dfXsys0f6rC4HMCbjfWaPdefUQtMQJqwDBZ-172iQuLoLY5VgozrB0f2jdcCOt61HVXXHjF5X-t7KqZNykaY91nk/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieFAByQYLwaE4DIMnNa5YJ65HRo0xuGjejbr2UWkewP_5THCJ19XM9dfXsys0f6rC4HMCbjfWaPdefUQtMQJqwDBZ-172iQuLoLY5VgozrB0f2jdcCOt61HVXXHjF5X-t7KqZNykaY91nk/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_9.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See how we only trimmed the living room side?  Haha, darn One Room Challenge.  And no, we weren't really that lazy, we only purchased enough to do the living room side and that is exactly where we ran out.  Hoping to get the rest finished up in the next week or two.  Just sort of funny how that worked out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Anyway, still not the most amazing setup, but I love how it worked out to create more of a nook or alcove for the door, making it almost look like intentional placement.  And the paneled look on the door is much more polished and matches the remainder of our interior doors.  Definitely happy with how it all is turning out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last but not least, we finally have a fridge!  It is counter depth, and also finally framed out.  Or in?  Whichever way, it is so much cleaner.   </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When we began the kitchen planning process, we realized quickly that to maximize our space and to accommodate the island with cooking appliances, that our fridge would be best at a countertop depth.  First, I ordered a white side-by-side option.  There are not a lot of white countertop depth refrigerators on the market, especially with great reviews and decorative bar pulls.  And the ones that did have good reviews, were about a few thousand dollars over our budget.  But I found one and ordered it and when it arrived, it was completely dinged and dented and the pulls were nothing like they were pictured online.  The company took back the refrigerator at no charge, and we were left starting over with our search.  We thought that a side by side was the way to go since that was what we were use to, but after quite a few recommendations to try out the french door option, that is what we ultimately landed on.  I have to say, I love how much more space there is in this style and that the doors can swing wide open and leave us a ton of room to navigate, even with the island directly behind us (we purchased <a href="http://www.maytag.com/kitchen-1/refrigeration-2/french-door-3/-%5BMFC2062DEM%5D-1112110/MFC2062DEM/" target="_blank">this model</a>).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCy0kzbUFYHLEBiCvThJgZ1bxr9br2kCP26RZEt-ogt90jKQqfNz9bXgvpfEbJ11CNwXCkfzbFU2mfNPwMAeBHc5LHeYUDizZs3lYHUDpAXNpeQwZYP-o30CTqIcdeN7g0dKVnJDvsvpf/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCy0kzbUFYHLEBiCvThJgZ1bxr9br2kCP26RZEt-ogt90jKQqfNz9bXgvpfEbJ11CNwXCkfzbFU2mfNPwMAeBHc5LHeYUDizZs3lYHUDpAXNpeQwZYP-o30CTqIcdeN7g0dKVnJDvsvpf/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_20.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What I don't love is the freezer drawer.  This thing terrifies me.  But I always love a good organizational challenge so I will let you know if I ever get this thing figured out.  We also kept our previous fridge in our garage as a replacement to our freezer chest, which we will love for holding six packs of be... I mean soda.  And for party throwing and entertaining and freezer overflow.  Also, for some reason my regular stainless cleaning solution does not work on this fridge, so I would love recommendations on streak-free stainless cleaning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, a month later we have a fully functioning sink and fridge and even started unloading (but not organizing) our fridge and cabinets.  After the counters are in next week, we can have our stovetop hooked up and start cooking on real appliances again!  If anything, this process has given us a much deeper appreciation for everyday kitchen conveniences.  <a href="https://instagram.com/p/3Mb8z2TcUE/?taken-by=iheartorganizing" target="_blank">Like making coffee</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYr8CtHukYypbqiNksujqcD0RTXrBitjfBOxI9avdyq3Uvz29vNHkuJNG6IdFT6yboSfvpqveYOBxwVvHZriZNbXkw76j3_PiN5yE1LkbuRn0E9PNgHutxhJIh9TAmDrpPx1SfsJEiLKeq/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYr8CtHukYypbqiNksujqcD0RTXrBitjfBOxI9avdyq3Uvz29vNHkuJNG6IdFT6yboSfvpqveYOBxwVvHZriZNbXkw76j3_PiN5yE1LkbuRn0E9PNgHutxhJIh9TAmDrpPx1SfsJEiLKeq/s1600/IHeart_Kitchen_Updates_19.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And just when I am feeling like the end is near, it is time to get real and take a look at what is left before we call this renovation complete. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><ul><li>Install <strike>HVAC</strike>/Oven/Cooktop</li><li><strike>Install</strike> counters</li><li><strike>Set island cabinets</strike></li><li><strike>Install hardware on island cabinets </strike></li><li><strike>Replace garage door </strike></li><li><strike>Install flooring</strike></li><li><strike>Frame in refrigerator</strike></li><li><strike>Finish installing cabinet side panels </strike></li><li>Install cabinet toe-kick</li><li>Install cabinet crown moulding</li><li>Panel gap above fridge </li><li>Trim floors, doors and windows </li><li>Install backsplash</li><li>DIY a coat closet door</li><li>Add shelving and doors to nook above coat closet (?)</li><li>Install legs to built-in side cabinet</li><li>DIY message center</li><li>Hang window panels and roman shade</li></ul><br />I can't wait for layering in finishing touches to really start warming up the space.  Things like rugs and new dining chairs and window panels, oh my.  And cutting boards.  We still have a lot of items to pick-out that we haven't landed on yet like backsplash (although my heart is set on one) and also have to troubleshoot a moulding issue we may run into with the beams and cabinets.   But everything left is really just a lot of finishing touches at this point!  And after next week, it should at least be 100% functional (fingers crossed).  With that big list lingering above, I think you know where you will be able to find us when we aren't at the baseball fields.  Happy weekend everyone!<br /><br /><br /><i>You can follow all of the kitchen progress <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/search/label/IHeart%20Kitchen%20Reno" target="_blank">here</a>.</i> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />

IHeart Kitchen Reno: Four Weeks Later!

Wow!  Another month has come and gone since our previous kitchen update .  I was really hoping that we would be able to wrangle both kitchen...

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