I am so excited to have my dear friend, Fifi, as a guest blogger at Dear Daisy Cottage!
As readers and friends of mine, you know how much Fifi means to me. I've blogged about her so many times and for good reason. I love her to pieces. She is the real deal. You all know her as a writer, stylist, and editor of Romantic Country magazine. And YES, she IS one talented woman in so many ways but she is also one of the most humble, down-to-earth, GIVING souls that I have ever known. She sparkles, she charms, and she is refreshingly FUNNY. But most of all - she is an encourager and an inspiration simply by being herself. She gives and gives and gives and expects nothing in return. To know her is to love her.
If you haven't met Fifi yet, you can get to know her at her blog, Chez Fifi.
But before you knock on her cottage door, please let me introduce you to my mentor and cherished friend.
GUEST BLOGGER
Fifi O'Neill
Some people have a knack for making you feel special. Kim is one of them. Since the first time we met--3 years ago she has always managed to make me feel that way. Our initial meeting was for the shoot of her darling cottage. Kim and her husband Kevin treated the photographer (Dan Mayers) and I like "stars" when, truth be told, Dan and I were the grateful ones. Styling (I didn't have to do much as Kim is so good at it herself) and shooting the sweet cottage was a treat. Besides, Kim was (and is) as genuine as it gets. What you see (and what you read on her delightful blog) is what you get. Long story short, we became friends instantly. Though we only live 2 hours away from each other we never get to spend anytime together (mea culpa)! So, the next time we met was when I went back to shoot her home again for another magazine. Then, several months later, Kevin and Kim drove to my house for a garage sale I had. Of course, Kim couldn't possibly arrive empty handed! No, she came with a tray loaded with homemade cookies, pumpkin-spice flavored coffee, a cool mug, and dainty napkins held with a cherub napkin ring. Imagine that! Somebody taking the time to bring such a thoughtful array of goodies to a friend's garage sale! Well, that's my friend Kim in a nutshell. We may only see each other once a year but Kim is someone I consider a lifelong friend. The kind that's ALWAYS there for you, come rain or shine, and especially down here, hurricanes! So, when she asked me if I would be a Guest Blogger, how could I resist? Besides, I already know she is going to make me feel and look good............you see, that's just the way she is!
When Kim asked me to send her some photos representative of who I am the first thing that came to my mind was that I am a do-it-yourself kind of girl. There is nothing I enjoy more than creating soothing and personal interiors. Yes, I know, when they first meet me, most people don't see me as the Tom-boy I really am (could it possibly be because of my girlie-girl way of dressing)? The truth is that I love to work with power tools and paint. Don't mind a bit getting sawdust in my bra and paint in my hair. After all we are all "wash and wear"! So, with that in mind, last year, I finally decided to undertake the "extreme makeover" of the termite-eaten-rot-clad-leaky-roof-dilapidated 450 sq. ft garage that I used for storage since I bought my house 10 years ago. WHEW!!! It really was falling apart and I knew that if I didn't make up my mind it would soon collapse. It would have been a shame because it had open rafters and a good foundation. So, I did bite the bullet, which meant spending the money but trying to minimize the financial trauma by doing as much of the work myself. That meant everything but rebuilding the 4 outside walls, putting a new tin roof, and plumbing and electricity, though I did work side by side with the carpenter, plumber and electrician (I learned a lot!) But from redesigning the interior (there was no bathroom or kitchen, and I moved the wall from the disgusting "laundry area" 2 feet in to what is now the living room), sanding the drywall, priming, painting and so on...I did it all myself.
It all began the weekend before last Thanksgiving. Have been working on it only on weekends (and not every weekends due to work/photo shoots schedule) and it's just about finished. Still have to install the fireplace. It's just a mantel but I am going to build it in as if it was a real one so I can pile wood in it, just for looks! Curtains and shutters still need to be hung and, but of course, all the right accessories/decorating touches that will make this little guest house special will also be added. I already love it. The hardest part is to refrain from going to work in it and stick with writing and editing. Oh well, soon I will be able to move my office in it. Just can't wait. Here is a little preview of the almost completed project.
First the original tin roof had to come down, as did most of the wood frame and all 4 walls......................
The walls were removed and new ones built...............
Though I didn't put any photos the inside walls they are now insulated, dry-walled and painted...............These windows came from Habitat for Humanity (only $15 each)!
The photo with the little bench and the window with shutters is of the bathroom side, the Moorish-style window is over the kitchen sink.
This is what the "laundry area" looked like before. I build the new bathroom in that space and the washer and dryer are now concealed behind the white curtains.
I must confess that I splurged on the cast iron claw foot tub...but the dresser was only $30................
The bathroom is accessed through a pair of little French doors (they need curtains!!!) I found in a salvage place. I had the 2 armoires but repainted them. I took the top front panels off the one on the right, replaced them with chicken wire and fabric. I saved the wood panels to make little shutters for the small window over the bed. They are done but still need to go up.
The French doors are new and open into what will soon be a private little courtyard. The blackboards are stick-ons and can be removed and placed in other location without hurting the wall paint. The floor is plywood, which I painted to look like old planks.
The sofa (a $25 reject) is awaiting new upholstery....
The "bookcase" was free but needed refinishing. As you can see by the box under the chair (that chair was also found on the curb; I just repainted it and recovered the cushion with old French mattress ticking) I am still finding places for everything. I finally got the track light up. By the way, I repainted the ceiling too. Had to put a step stool on top of the armoire in order to reach the peak of the ceiling (about 12 ft high).
This is how the kitchen was built. I am adding a cook top and a counter top convection oven. It will be fully functional.
I bought a lot of burlap at Jo-Anne's to do the curtains, including those for the kitchen cupboards. I got the cream-color one and used a pearl gray die from Die-Rite. As you can clearly see they need to be hemmed but if there is one thing I don't do it's sewing! So, I am waiting for a friend who will be making those for me next month.
This was a short tour but as soon as everything is fully completed I will post photos on my blog. I have so many more photos but enough is enough already. Sorting through all these pictures has been good for me. I forgot how much time I invested in this project but when I look at the end results I feel all "warm and fuzzy"! It has been a labor of love, a learning experience and a most rewarding journey. Thank you so much for allowing me to share it with you. Oh, by the way, any tip/suggestions are very welcome.
xoxoxo
Fifi
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thank you SO much Fifi for being a Guest Blogger and for ALL that you shared with us! What an amazing transformation!
If you would like to see my photos of Fifi's cottage, please click here. I wish I could have captured how enchanting her home truly is but I think you will get the idea!
Fifi is having a fabulous contest and you can get all of the details here!
I plan on entering and I hope that YOU do too! Lovely prizes and fantastic before & afters will be shared. Don't miss out on the fun!
Speaking of FUN - don't miss Fifi-TV!!
You can watch her delightful new video by clicking here - but I warn you, you will come away very hungry! ;-)
*AND after you watch the video, you can share YOUR thoughts about it by leaving a comment on Fifi's blog. Just click here and it will take you there. She would love to know what you think, so please do so if you can. Thank you VERY much!
Now, do you remember when I shared about my special heart from Fifi?
Well Fifi is generously giving a heart away to one of YOU!
This heart is handmade by Fifi out of metal. She aged it, painted it, inscribed it and then glazed it. And you can have the chance to win this one-of-a-kind heart when you leave a comment on this post!
I will pick the winner on Sunday @ noon - Eastern time.
Until then, thank you ALL so much for spending time with me and with Fifi.
You are THE BEST and it brings me great joy to share the things AND the people that I love with YOU.
Now, let's go redo something, shall we?
;-)
Kim
so excited to see fifi guest blogging. her new guest house is just incredible!!
Posted by: stacy | October 21, 2009 at 02:26 PM
Fifi your home is incredible! I just adore your gorgeous creations as well. What a beautifully made heart and nice giveaway.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful guest blogger with us Kim. It was a treat!
Many Blessings Ladies, ~Melissa :)
Posted by: Melissa Miller | October 21, 2009 at 02:55 PM
Fifi's cottage is enchanting ~ a lovely hideaway! Great for an office, too.
Posted by: Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions | October 21, 2009 at 03:01 PM
Love it! The decor is beautiful, I love giving old things new life and purpose. Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Lori | October 21, 2009 at 03:08 PM
You are both amazing people. Your blogs are so inspiring, your homes are just gorgeous and I love reading about them and your fabulous projects.
Posted by: Lululiz | October 21, 2009 at 03:08 PM
Oh my goodness! What a lovely little retreat!
Can I come live there?! (smile)
Thank you for sharing your sweet friend with us Kim! I am now going to be "stalking" Fifi's blog for more incredible ideas and inspiration!
:-)
Posted by: Kelly McMaster | October 21, 2009 at 03:10 PM
Fifi, did a wonderful job with the cottage! Simply enchanting. And I loved seeing the tour and appreciate her sharing the renovation process with us. That makes me want to work on my garage here!
I would be delighted to put my name in the hat for that precious little heart. Thanks to you and Fifi for this fun giveaway.
XO,
Sheila :-)
Posted by: Sheila | October 21, 2009 at 03:15 PM
What a wonderful post. The cottage is absolutely beautiful and I enjoyed seeing it so much!
Thank you for the chance to win the heart.
PS. I hope Maggie enjoyed her walk yesterday!
Posted by: Marie | October 21, 2009 at 03:18 PM
What an amazing lady and wonderful post full of photos and info to inspire! I enjoyed her blog, too! WOW! So much to see and do! I can't wait to see the makeovers! Please enter me! How perfect for my new home! I would love it!
Posted by: Lavender Dreams | October 21, 2009 at 03:21 PM
What fun! You both are amazing and giving and we all love it! I love hearts and metal signs and I'm thinking I have just the spot!
Posted by: Snap | October 21, 2009 at 03:23 PM
Everything is beautiful!!
Posted by: Jenny The Red Bulletin Board | October 21, 2009 at 03:40 PM
I love Fifi. It's all so beautiful.
I think I would faint if I won but I want to enter anyway :).
Kristen
[email protected]
Posted by: Kristen | October 21, 2009 at 03:44 PM
Darling Fifi and Kim - you are given me the inspiration to go out and try and tackle the ancient, decrepit sheds we have on our property. I was feeling they were beyond repair - but - hey - look what you have achieved! You are two darling girls x
Posted by: Francesca | October 21, 2009 at 03:53 PM
Hi Kim,
I just love Fifi's home and blog too! I enjoyed the peek into her new space. How funny you are having a giveaway of one of Fifi's hearts,because just yesterday I emailed her asking her about purchasing one. You must have been reading my mind (scary).
Please enter my name, maybe I'll be lucky.
Enjoy your day and keep creating,
Elizabeth
Posted by: Elizabeth Marchus | October 21, 2009 at 04:00 PM
I adore her cottage. It is like a playhouse for an adult. How fabulous!
Posted by: Kim | October 21, 2009 at 04:08 PM
That was certainly inspirational..Fifi makes me tired just thinking about all she does, plus her mind must be going a mile a minute to think of all the clever ideas. I sure would love to win one of her hearts!
Janet@Housepeepers
Posted by: janet | October 21, 2009 at 04:20 PM
I want a cute Shed to fix up like FIFI's. SOOOOO CUTE!!!! I always LOVE strolling her blog. Thanx for sharing with us.Kelli Hansen
Posted by: Kelli Hansen | October 21, 2009 at 04:28 PM
Okay, I want to move into that cottage! How sweet! She is sooo creative. I also want one of those signs for my house! Hope I win! :-) Thanks for another wonderful post.
Posted by: Ann at the Handley Bungalow | October 21, 2009 at 04:28 PM
I was really impressed with the things Fifi did to make over her furniture, curtains, etc. Those are great ideas!
Thank you, Fifi and Kim!
Posted by: Diane/Noodle | October 21, 2009 at 04:36 PM
Oh Kim,
I can't tell you how happy I am to read your guest blogger's post here and view all the gorgeous photos. Wonderfully sweet Fifi changed my life and I'm now doing something I thoroughly enjoy each day. The only way I can tell you how I feel about Fifi is the way I believe Rue feels about you, dear Kim. I believe the sun rises and sets with Fifi and her compassionate, giving heart that gives back to all.
You two made my day!
xo~Tracie
Posted by: Tracie~My Petite Maison | October 21, 2009 at 04:55 PM
Oh my! I love that! What a nice opportunity to own it! Thank you and Thank FiFi!
sweetjeanette.blogspot.com
Posted by: Jeanette | October 21, 2009 at 04:58 PM
What a neat friendship you two have. And I love the sound of that pumpkin spice coffee.... not something we get here in the sth pacific!
A very inspiring transformation - I can only dream of being that talented!
I love the unhemmed look of the burlap curtain... :)
Thanks for the tour!
xx
Posted by: Lauree | October 21, 2009 at 05:06 PM
love what you have done with the garage...thank you for the giveaway..
Posted by: bettyann | October 21, 2009 at 05:10 PM
Fifi's cottage is divine--I wish I had the talent to create something that beautiful. You two have a wonderful friendship, which is a special gift. Thank you Fifi and Kim for sharing and for the giveaway.
Posted by: Sue | October 21, 2009 at 05:48 PM
how charming!
Posted by: shiela | October 21, 2009 at 05:58 PM
I love both of you girls Kim. I have had the pleasure of spending some time with the darling Fifi, but haven't met you in person yet. Someday we shall.......xoxo to you and thanks for the lovely post! ~Janet~
Posted by: Janet (Shabbyfufu) | October 21, 2009 at 05:58 PM
I am in awe of Fifi's remodel! She would be a good friend to have. Please enter me in your giveaway. [email protected]
Posted by: Connie | October 21, 2009 at 05:58 PM
Hi Kim~ I enjoyed seeing Fifi as your guest blogger! Her guest cottage is inspiring! I'd love to win one of her beautiful hearts! ~Mandy
Posted by: Amanda | October 21, 2009 at 06:09 PM
Amazing transformation. What a lovely space it will be to work in.
Thanks for all the pictures.
Posted by: Sharon | October 21, 2009 at 06:10 PM
Oh Fifi your little cottage is adorable! It just goes to show you what a person with creativity and vision can accomplish. This is quite inspiring. :)
Thanks Kim for sharing this interview.
Keeping my fingers crossed for the give away.
Posted by: Stacey | October 21, 2009 at 06:11 PM
je amie FiFi!
Posted by: susie | October 21, 2009 at 06:11 PM
Oh my! I'm trying to cook dinner and read your post at the same time LOL Sweet Tracie emailed me and let me know about this post (blushing after her mention of little ol' me, but it's true!) and I rushed over to see :)
Kim you know I love you and well, Fifi, you have no idea who the heck I am, I'm sure, but this was such a fabulous post!!
Fifi, your remodel is absolutely and undeniably charming. I love every inch of it, even unfinished. Thank you for sharing it and all the hard work you put into it.
Kim, thank you for having Fifi as a guest blogger. She inspires so many! As do YOU ;)
Love to you sweet friend,
rue
Posted by: rue | October 21, 2009 at 06:38 PM
FiFi is amazing! She did a great job as always!
Posted by: Christina | October 21, 2009 at 06:44 PM
This is just the kind of thing I love to see! Repurposed items that have been made wonderful! Your re-do is beatiful Fifi:>) I love the grey burlap and the cabinets you have salvaged and redone. Beautiful!
Posted by: Kathy | October 21, 2009 at 07:04 PM
What a beautiful, inspiring post! Thank you, Fifi, for sharing your hard work with us all! I can always count on being blessed when I visit Dear Daisy Cottage - lovely music, pictures and words.
Posted by: Elaine/MuddlingThrough | October 21, 2009 at 07:06 PM
Amazing - that she has a 2-car garage in FL. I love that she just goes and does. The results are over, above and beyond me and I admire her for that. She is a very talented and beautiful lady. Blessings, Janet
Posted by: Jan | October 21, 2009 at 07:19 PM
Wow! What a transformation! It is such a cute and cozy place now...ready to move right in!
xoxo
Rochelle
Posted by: Rochelle Gaukel | October 21, 2009 at 07:35 PM
Love Fifi, her heart and her art!
Cheers!
Riat
Posted by: Rita May | October 21, 2009 at 07:58 PM
I want to move into Fifi's guest cottage! What a sweet, tranquil getaway. I also want to win that beautiful heart. sigh. Thanks!
p.s. did you know that Fifi (or fifille in French) means 'little girl'?
Posted by: Rachel | October 21, 2009 at 08:08 PM
I love all the white on white, gorgeous! TFS
Posted by: Amy P | October 21, 2009 at 08:38 PM
Amazing what a woman with a hammer can accomplish, isn't it? I'm not a women's libber but after reading this blog I can't see that there's anything a creative woman can't do! It all just depends on how big is your "want to". Thanks for the inspiration. Love your blog. Hope I win the heart!!!
Posted by: Sandy | October 21, 2009 at 08:49 PM
Fifi is a French energizer bunny! I have told her several times to slow down, rest and take care of herself. I think that is impossible for her, she just has too much that she wants to do!! Love you both!
Posted by: carol | October 21, 2009 at 09:21 PM
Absolutely beautiful!!
Posted by: Lynnette | October 21, 2009 at 09:30 PM
How nice and thoughtful is that Tracie?
She alerted me also to this beautiful Fifilicious post:)
I am grateful..what a makeover.I wish we could do my sunroom together Fifi:)
And not only did I get to see so many favorite things and all your ingenuity:) But I have a new blog to discover here that looks so inviting!Not to mention friendly and inspiring~
Thanks Tracie..Kim and Fifi~
Monique
Posted by: Monique | October 21, 2009 at 09:44 PM
What an AMAZING transformation!! Adorable little cottage! Unbelieveable the difference when you look at the before's!! Great job FIFI!!
Posted by: Southern Lady's Vintage | October 21, 2009 at 09:49 PM
Thank heavens for Twitter so I could post before you get hundreds! Love Fifi. She is the best and the thought of her doing all that trade work warms my heart. Fingers crossed for this giveaway. I have already ordered a heart from Fifi but she is a busy lady! I would love to see you two work together on a book! xx
ps Glad I finally spotted Google Friends on your site, Kim. It will make it easier for me to keep up with you.
Posted by: Josephine Tale Pedder | October 21, 2009 at 10:01 PM
I love Fifi! What a fun post...I would love her to come over and help me do my house! I love it when she does her DIY projects and this included so many!
2 wonderful people on one blog...we are so lucky! karen....
Posted by: karen | October 21, 2009 at 10:10 PM
What a wonderful space - it's truly amazing! Fabulous job Fifi!!
Posted by: Paula | October 21, 2009 at 10:35 PM
I am woman hear me ROAR...Fifi is adorable !!! Love what she has created, in my next life I am going to paint and use power tools......
LOVED this post....
I would love one of her hearts...
Thanks for the chance...(I am a glutton for punishment)
Off to bed but i will be replaying this post in my head....
Kathy :)
Posted by: Kathy | October 21, 2009 at 10:36 PM
My, my, that Fifi is a worker! I love the transformation of the garage. And I'd love to win that precious heart!
Blessings,
Patty
Posted by: Patty Boyd | October 21, 2009 at 10:37 PM
I "heart" you and your adorable blog, and I "heart" Fifi and her adorable hearts.
Posted by: Elena G | October 21, 2009 at 10:46 PM
Wow! What a wonderful guest post. I wish I had that little cottage! It's adorable! And how sweet of ya'll to do a giveaway. I could see that beautiful heart hanging right beside my bed. Kim, you are such a sweetie! Always always kind words. You shine my dear!
Posted by: Sherri S | October 21, 2009 at 10:53 PM
Oh Fifi, What a darling space this is turning out to be for you!
I *especially* can't wait to see your completed private courtyard. Talk about OOh La La!!!!!
Thank you for sharing of yourself for us as a guest Blogger at Kim's - and thanks Kim for the great guest!
Smiles!
Posted by: Michele | October 21, 2009 at 11:12 PM
Hi Fifi and Kim, I am literally on the floor cracking up with Fifi on a ladder on top of an armoir! Sounds like something I would do! I did climb a tree once and cut it down the firemen went by (I back a busy street) and actually waved at me! This past weekend I cut ALL the honeysuckle from one very long block wall on one side of my backyard, what the heck was I thinking! No long sleeve shirt for me so I told everyong I had a fight with a bunch of kittens, my arms are a mess! haha Oh well, women with POWER TOOLS! I LOVE IT! Fifi your home and Kim's has been a huge inspiration to me to get my stuff done, organizing and generally cleaning up,and I am taking more pictures now than ever, I love to do that too, but how can you possibly have a garage sale and let your beautiful things go....I guess to share with others, I must do the same thing soon! The heart is beautiful and I love the patina. You truly are a do-it-yourselfer! I keep telling myself who needs a man when I have electricity and my own power tools! Talking to myself helps, haha, especially down from a tall ladder!! Love the pics, please keep them coming, I LOVE your new office and guest cottage! I am wishing I had one too! :) Luv to both of you great ladies! Keep the pics comin! Kat =^.^=
Posted by: Kat | October 21, 2009 at 11:20 PM
Love Fifi's new office!! :-)
Posted by: MJ Smith | October 21, 2009 at 11:37 PM
What a fun post! I enjoyed seeing Fifi's photos of her beautiful redo.
Posted by: debi | October 21, 2009 at 11:39 PM
Fifi is so inspiring. Love all the things she does. Love her redo. A wonderful little getaway. Mimi
Posted by: mimisue | October 22, 2009 at 12:58 AM
Oh you are both so talented! I have a run down cottage with a tight budget and every time I check out your blog Kim, you inspire me to bring out the creativity! Thank you for bringing in your guest blogger Fifi. Incredible transformation!
Posted by: Vicky Elias | October 22, 2009 at 03:08 AM
Wow! What a treat to have a post from Fifi and see all those wonderful pictures! Very inspiring!
Mercedes
Posted by: Mercedes | October 22, 2009 at 03:15 AM
Unbelievable transformation! Thanks for the post from Miss Fifi!
Posted by: TheCottageGirl | October 22, 2009 at 04:42 AM
Both Fifi and yourself are the most lovely genuine people with a brilliant talent for home style! I love both of your blogs and eagerly await new posts! x
Posted by: Hannah | October 22, 2009 at 04:58 AM
What a gorgeous little retreat Fifi has created,wish I could transform everyday goods to such beauties.Very talented.
Posted by: Little Wren | October 22, 2009 at 07:09 AM
Love Fifi's re-do. She has such amazing, unusual treasures.
Connie
Posted by: connie | October 22, 2009 at 07:27 AM
Bom...simplesmente:adorável!Encantador esse post.Fifi é explendida,criatividade e talentosa.Sou sua fã.
Abraços.
Roseny
¸¸♥♥¸¸♥♥¸¸♥♥
Good .. simply adorable! Enchanting post.Fifi this is splendid, very creative and talento. Your fan.
Hugs.
Roseny
¸¸♥♥¸¸♥♥¸¸♥♥
(Sorry my English)
Posted by: Roseny Crisp | October 22, 2009 at 07:49 AM
Good .. simply adorable! Enchanting post.Fifi this is splendid, very creative and talented.Your fan.
Hugs.
Roseny
¸¸♥♥¸¸♥♥¸¸♥♥
(Sorry my English)
Posted by: Roseny Crisp | October 22, 2009 at 07:53 AM
Wowsers Kim, Fifi has done an amazing job on her guest cottage. What a treat to see it and thanks to you for sharing your friend with us. I WANT to win the heart! lolol.
Posted by: lucy | October 22, 2009 at 08:03 AM
I love everything Fifi did--so calming and inviting. Love your blog in general.
Posted by: christy donoho | October 22, 2009 at 08:08 AM
I've been following Fifi's redo on her blog. She is amazing and I stand in awe of her skill and creativity! It has been so nice to read her guest blog here at Daisy Cottage. I have family in Florida and have a little dream that someday I can visit both you, Kim, and Fifi!
xoxo
Claudia
Posted by: Claudia | October 22, 2009 at 08:25 AM
Totally enjoyed visiting FiFi's shed makeover. Very inspiring to those of us with projects that are overwhelming, but with some sweat and imagination look what we can achieve.Please enter me in the giveaway. I know exactly where the heart will go!
Rhonda M.
Posted by: Rhonda | October 22, 2009 at 08:34 AM
Sigh...it's all so wonderful and I am so impressed with all the work!! That dresser in the bathroom - I have the same one in my house. It was all chippy green when I bought it, but I love the white look! And the grey burlap is gourgeous!!
Thanks Kim and Fifi,
SusanG
Posted by: SusanG | October 22, 2009 at 08:38 AM
Love the post. It's just plain FUN to read.
And I love to visit yours. In my Favorite Blogs spot. Enter me in for the drawing. Love the heart.
AND I love Miss Maggie. :-)
I love makeovers and repurposing things and places. Have a great day.
Posted by: Julie | October 22, 2009 at 09:01 AM
What a great makeover! Can't wait to see it all finished! I love visiting both of your blogs. So many cute things to look at (including Miss Maggie!
Please put my name in the hat for the drawing and I hope you have a wonderful weekend!
Posted by: TinaTx | October 22, 2009 at 09:07 AM
What an amazing transformation!
Posted by: Rochelle | October 22, 2009 at 09:34 AM
Fifi's cottage is magical...Fifi you are an inspiration.
Posted by: Andrea @ Big Creek Cottage | October 22, 2009 at 09:37 AM
Wooowwww... I love Fifi's blog!
The makeover it's wonderful!
And I love the heart... I want it !!!!
:D
Posted by: Mariela | October 22, 2009 at 09:41 AM
Love, love the makeover, it is so beautiful, just amazing!
Thank you both so much for sharing your gorgeous homes with us!
Henriëtte KB
Posted by: Henriëtte KB | October 22, 2009 at 10:02 AM
I loved the photos! I use to always buy Romantic homes mag's. They are the only mag's I never threw away. After meeting Fifi and seeing all the photos's, I want to run out and start buying those again. Great Blog!
Posted by: Diane Adame | October 22, 2009 at 10:55 AM
Fantastic post! I enjoyed the makeover. It looks like it was a lot of work, but well worth it. Thanks for the giveaway.
Posted by: Dawn | October 22, 2009 at 11:04 AM
Beautiful! I always love your blog.
Blessings,
Gina
Posted by: gina | October 22, 2009 at 11:17 AM
Love Fifi's makeover, I enjoyed the tour. Another fun post. Thanks and have a wonderful day!
Posted by: Kim D. | October 22, 2009 at 11:49 AM
Hi Kim,
I was at Fifi's blog earlier this morning and watched her movie. So fun to come here and see the progress of her guest house that is so adorable. I'm loving those grey died curtains in her kitchen. We are looking at a delapatated house near Stuart, Fl that will need lots of fixing up so I'm enjoying Fifi's remodeling ideas for inspiration.
It is good to be back blogging after a bit of a break. I enjoyed my visit today very much.
Hugs,
Sue
Posted by: Sue | October 22, 2009 at 12:24 PM
Though I recently discovered FIFI..(less then a year ago)what I have seen, is TRULY AMAZING.
Some people just have "IT" and she is one of those people(like you).
Her energy,drive and creativity....take my breath away and I am not just saying that because I want the heart~LOL
I wish she would sell them on Etsy....I have been coveting each one she creates.
Thanks for having such a lovely guest~Sheri
Posted by: Sheri and Sophee~a | October 22, 2009 at 12:37 PM
Oh my gosh- that's a garage? I love it. It's totally cute and functional.
And how fabulous that Fifi did most of the work herself. Power girl, but still feminine. Gotta love it!
Posted by: paintergal | October 22, 2009 at 01:13 PM
Fifi's cottage is sooo pretty. I have been wanting my own cottage space for so long. Maybe someday............sigh I cannot believe that she did most of the work. Wow! What a woman!!
Posted by: ginny | October 22, 2009 at 01:26 PM
Amazing! I love seeing all the photos...talk about inspiration. Both of you are creative and down to earth. Thanks so much for allowing all of us to observe you in action.
I'd love to win the heart...I collect them!
Posted by: Pat | October 22, 2009 at 01:41 PM
Thanks for the lovely post! Love your style Fifi! Will definitely follow your blog!
Posted by: Catherine Randall | October 22, 2009 at 01:58 PM
Okay... whoa... you have been busy!!! Way busy :)
Posted by: carrie | October 22, 2009 at 02:36 PM
That was awesome, thank you for sharing. Love the mantle, why don't you buy or acquire an electric fireplace or electric stove and then the mantle would be functional. Those electric fireplaces are cute and charming. Makes my bedroom more of a haven.
That heart would be perfect in my cottage.
Posted by: Ginny Sass | October 22, 2009 at 03:48 PM
Fifi's house is charming! What a delightful visit.
I'd be thrilled to be the owner of the heart. It would be perfect at my house!
Posted by: Natalie | October 22, 2009 at 03:56 PM
What an absolutely wonderful makeover! Gorgeous!
And how exciting it would be to have a heart made by Fifi!
Posted by: Lady Dorothy | October 22, 2009 at 04:01 PM
Wow! Good for you, Fifi, for doing so much yourself! It is looking so nice! Here's a suggestion - would you think of leaving a little unfinished edge on that burlap? I kind of liked it in the photo you had here.
Thanks, Kim, for having Fifi over to show us all her work.
Mary Lou
Posted by: Mary Lou | October 22, 2009 at 05:43 PM
How fun to see two of my favorite blog gals in one place! Please enter me in the giveaway!
Dawn
Posted by: Dawn Gahan | October 22, 2009 at 05:54 PM
Fifi's home is so enchanting! That's the only word I can think of to describe it! I would love to have one of Fifi's hearts hanging in my home. It would be the crowning touch!
Posted by: Carol @ Old Glory Cottage | October 22, 2009 at 06:01 PM
Hello Sweet Kim & Fifi~
Although I have visited Fifi's blog a couple of times when she first began blogging, somehow through this garage makeover I got to know her a lot better. Maybe it was the sawdust in the bra part, or it was looking up at the beams missing the sheathing and roofing! Whatever, this was such a true reflection of an amazing woman told in her own words, and by a special friend.
Thanks to you both.
Hugs, Donna
Posted by: Donna, The Decorated House | October 22, 2009 at 06:15 PM
How inspiring!! Thank you, thank you!
Posted by: Katherine Ann | October 22, 2009 at 07:56 PM
Wow!
What a wonderful job Fifi's done on the garage. I love her style. Everything looks so fresh. Thanks Kim for sharing. Would love to win that heart.
Fay Marie
Posted by: Fay Marie | October 22, 2009 at 08:32 PM
Adorable... I always tell my husband that I want a little place (a play house) in our yard where I can go and just be surrounded by things I love and fill it with lovely things and it would be a place just for me... I love FiFi's little cottage getaway .... what a beautiful place to land.. thanks for your inspiration
Posted by: Debb | October 22, 2009 at 08:48 PM
Kim and Fifi it is truely special to have a friend that you can share your desires and talents with. The guest house is beautiful and know it is a passion for you. You can just see the happy in your eyes. Great Job!!!
Posted by: Ronda | October 22, 2009 at 08:52 PM
I love reading your blog & Fifi's..this was a really great post today..I will be reading it over & over..wish I had even half as much talent as the two of you...
[email protected]
Posted by: faythe | October 22, 2009 at 08:54 PM
Love it all, FiFi is such an inspiration!!
Posted by: Kaylee Gotreau | October 22, 2009 at 09:45 PM