Number 4 is currently peering over the metaphorical brink of mobility, ready to catapult into a thorough exploration and dissection of all that is within (and out of) reach. Already I spend most days wishing I could grow a few more arms. So much for evolution. If it were true, I’d have an extra pair of arms, and eyes on the back of my head. I digress. Anyhow, my current juggling act of homeschooling, preschooling, toddlerhood, potty-training, organizing, messy feedings, and keeping up with the incredible rolling baby, has effectively drained me of time (and energy) for some of my favorite creative endeavors: painting, sewing, and even blogging.
I do, however, make the most of spontaneous creative outbursts that usually accompany must-do’s, like cooking, organizing, and repairing. Such is the case with my recent decorative additions in the kitchen and half-bath.
I realized a month or two back, that my home must be more organized for me to survive efficiently with four children. I’ve been on a cleaning and reorganizing campaign ever since, which resulted in many late nights and one hefty garage sale. I have yet to tackle the utility/laundry room. That will be the final frontier…
Here are the recent inexpensive additions that are both decorative and functional: the mantra of efficient home decor. I apologize for the bad photography in this first set. This small bathroom is painted a buttery yellow with grey/silver accents.
I used frames I already had in my home and my computer printer to create these fun wall hangings. Troy has been into Seneca lately.
IKEA is responsible for these clever hanging baskets and bar.
The same accessories were purchased for the kitchen, relinquishing more counter and drawer space, while keeping everything I need organized and at my fingertips.
A magnetic strip now keeps all our knives in order and at hand.
“S” hooks keep these sweet teacups at the ready for our afternoon ritual.
And again, using an old frame, I made up a little “counter” for our family of six…should’ve made this a long time ago–who knows if the counter will ever change…
Where does decor and function meet in your home?


































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I wish there was an IKEA here in Omaha. I love their stuff, and love love love how economical much of it is. I have a hard time organizing my basement. It’s a weird shape and we have old furniture that worked well in our old home, but not this one. I’ve gotta make it my project for Summer.
Good job, Ruth, and thanks for sharing!
I’ve been wondering what you picked up at IKEA. Looks great! And I really love your counter…I think I need to make one of those. Love you and miss you, as always!
Ikea… smile! I love what you’ve done!
Decor meets function most readily in our boys’ rooms. The huge, cubicle bookcases (expedit by Ikea, thankyouverymuch!) that they each have are a great way to store toys and books and treasures in a semi-organized, visually appealing way. I love using their toys to decorate their rooms because there is so much color and whimsy.
LOVE IKEA! I don’t think I can say that enough. I absolutely can’t get enough of their practical, yet eye appealing organization things=)
Your house looks great!
Ah, yes. The rolling babies. My youngest is only 3, but funny how you forget. It’s all coming back to me now…
(PS-IKEA is responsible for a lot of grand ideas, isn’t it? Well done.)
I thought the garage was the final frontier!