Holding true to my motto to do a little bit everyday, I thought I'd share a few of the projects I have going on right now. There seems to be a never ending supply of them, so I've already taken the liberty of calling this Part One as I anticipate many more of these posts. I'm doing everything from hanging artwork, to caulking windowsills, to scraping film off our front window.

Here are a couple of DIY renovation tips I've picked up along the way... 

When caulking (anything), make sure you have a wet cloth and a plate or board to lay the gun down on. Some caulking tubes like to ignore your every desire to control their release and you'll having oozing caulk on every surface if you aren't careful. The wet cloth is to clean up messes that will occur, and the board or plate will catch any excess when you need to lay the gun down.

Spackling is not a fine art and I am confident anyone can do it. One thing I've discovered is that you cannot rush this process. Apply thin coats and let them dry completely before adding the next. This thin application will ensure a smooth finish. Also, always sand and prime them before you paint.

Removing window film or a stubborn sticker is about to get a whole lot easier. Simply spray a mix of soapy water on the surface, and cover with a sheet of plastic (I've been using bubble wrap due to an abundance from moving). Let this sit for 1-2 hours and carefully scrap or peel away. I used a scraper tool. You'll be amazed at how much easier it comes off and you'll have a squeaky clean finish.

Next on my list? More caulking. There a small cracks in all our baseboards and crown moulding that need attending to. Follow me on Instagram for behind-the-scenes peeks at these projects on Instagram Stories. - b.

Our house was built in the 1920s and I spent hours researching color palettes and trends at the time to start deciding on our own paint scheme. After much deliberation the above is an outline of my plans for the space.

Downstairs will be a little more bold and dramatic, with a cozy rich feel. While upstairs will feature similar colors in softer hues to evoke a calmer, subdued mood. The one exception being the bathroom which will be a graphic black and white scheme. Overall it should feel fairly neutral with pops of color found in the accents in each room. I've hinted at those in the Living Room and Guest Room with orangey reds, corals, and mustard tones.

I've been using Farrow & Ball to build the color palette from, but must admit that I will probably reserve their paints for furniture and accent pieces. Due to cost I favor Benjamin Moore for the walls and ceilings. Benjamin Moore offers high quality coverage and their colors are rich and fine. - b.

When the evening hours close-in, I find my mind wanders towards lonely thoughts of missing Ryan. His new position leaves us with little time together, but has definitely deepened my love and appreciation of the man he is and all he does for me. A favorite quote, from a favorite movie, reminds me that our life together is just beginning and it's the imperfections that bind us ever closer. I am a very lucky woman, today (Valentine's Day) and everyday I am with him. - b.