Welcome to My Humble Abode...

This post is the result of several requests to see pictures of my apartment. Inspired by Elisabeth Elliot, I have decided to call my humble abode "The Closet," in which I describe it with three C's: cozy, comfortable, and character. While there are still some small touches and decor items that need to be bought, it is mostly put together! This is due to the fact that I have had a goal to complete this project of putting together my home by the time class started (or it might never get done) and because I have had quite a bit of time on my hands. I preferably would like to wait for the finished product before I post pictures, but since I am about to be full swing in the study of law, I figured I better have an "open house" before the door to my little apartment is locked down, and I am "in the zone." Now, I am no Lauren Darr or Nate Burkus, but I have had a lot of fun decorating, crafting, and shopping around to make my place feel like home! I have developed quite a love for bargain and thrift shopping-finding those knick-knacks and making them like new again! I have included some tips and ideas highlighting a few of the items I made for my apartment if you are trying to decorate on a poor law student budget or just want to save some money. It may require a bit of time, but using your creative side can be a great stress reliever!

You will all have to come visit because these pictures do not do The Closet justice (mostly because I am a horrible photographer). However, I have done my best to make you feel right at home! The tour begins with the outside of my apartment...window boxes are coming soon! And no, that is not my minivan.....

The stairs in the inside entrance leading to my home:

This is what my door opens to:

First decorating idea: $10 board from IKEA in the damaged goods section (may have been a table top that was missing legs?)+little paint+50 cent vases and voila!

From the kitchen looking into the living room:

My prized possession #1 room divider/shelving unit from IKEA that separates my living room from my office area: (which happens to be the most expensive thing I bought for my apartment at $200)

Prized Possession #2: $10 frame+a little paint+cork+fabric=message board

The extra cork and fabric works great in other areas (this happens to be on the wall in my hall):

The item above my desk in the picture below is an old drying rack from Laverty's in Waco for $5. I painted it, along with some clothespins and there you have another message board/picture hanger. This is probably the most clean you will ever see my workspace:

Looking out from the living room (to the left is the bathroom and bedroom):

The picture of prized possession #3 is for the Posse: I made this in an attempt to keep up with my keys. Notice both sets are on the hook: so far so good!

Hallway to the bedroom:

From the door:

Prized Possession #4: I wanted a vanity to get ready at since I don't have counter space in my bathroom. I happened upon this 1950's vanity at The Caring Place for SUPER cheap. It is a goodwill-type store in Georgetown that supports services for low-income families in the community. You can find stores like these in most communities, along with treasures for super cheap (the board from the key hook and vases from the board above the stove are from The Caring Place as well). Fix them up to suit your style, and your purchase is helping someone else! A little paint, new pulls, and a new mirror (also from IKEA), and this vanity looks brand new!

$5 vase, $5 shade from World Market, and a lamp kit (which can be found for around $3). I only came up with the design...I have to thank Jen for the construction!

Another idea: I think throw pillows are a great touch to any room, but they can get pretty pricey. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I discovered that napkins (the fancy cloth kind) and some place mats make great throw pillows. If you want to know how it can be done, just ask me! The pillow below is the result of $1 place mat at Pier 1 on sale. The unfinished artwork above the bed was a doozy to hang, but with some determination, we succeeded!

The curtain replaced the gross sliding doors that were on my closet:

So. there you go: That is my home in a nutshell! I hope that you enjoyed the tour! (and ideas). I have officially survived almost two weeks in Lynchburg. I am learning to love it here. My landlord has been very helpful. She even took me around town to become familiar with the sights, complete with ice cream from Mister Goodies (which is a trailer in the parking lot-they say it's the best ice cream EVER, but they have never had Blue Bell). Orientation officially starts on Tuesday. I am ready to finally meet some new faces and my future law school colleagues! Thanks for keeping up with my law school adventures! Until next time, be blessed!