Jamie and I have wanted to refinish our dining room table ever since we got it on craigslist. It was only $30, but there was definitely a reason for that. There was plenty of gunk and stains on the surface, plus the legs were scuffed up. We also have been meaning to hang a lamp above the table instead of sitting a table lamp on top. So we've finally gotten around to tackling our little dining room project, and now we can show you how it all went.

The first thing we had to do was strip the surface of the table. It was actually pretty fun, and we got to wear some sweet gear.

Once we finished that, we had to sand and stain the wood. Even after just the sanding, the table looked so much nicer than it was before.

Then we printed out a stencil design, put it on top of rows of painters tape, cut it out with an x-acto knife, taped it to the surface and painted away!

Jamie did a little touch up afterwards. Next, we painted the legs and sides of the tabletop.

As a finishing touch, we added a new ceiling lamp and called it good. After all of our hard work, we sat down at our rustic chic, upcycled dining table, and ate some toy story shaped mac and cheese, and applesauce.

Today I came across this great website that I thought I would share. It is called The Working Proof.  Their mission is to promote art and social responsibility. 15% of each print sold goes to a charity of the artist's choice. So not only is the art something of aesthetic value, but also of social value. In the end artists have a way to use their talent for something beneficial, Charities are exposed and supported, and people can own beautiful art. I think I'm obsessed or maybe just really inspired. Here are a few of my personal favorites: 

Fall by far is my favorite season, and along with fall comes Halloween. Growing up, my family members weren't the biggest fanatics about this holiday. I mean we did go trick or treating a few times, and even dressed up in cute little costumes, but it wasn't anywhere near the highlight of my year. Last Halloween Jake and I carved our first pumpkin. If you have never done it before, don't be fooled; it might look easy, but it is quite a difficult task. Maybe it's just the perfectionist side of me that wants it to be just how I imaged.

This year I thought I might try my hand at carving something again. But then I came across these beautiful pictures and thought this was a little more my style.

It sounds like the perfect weekend project. Since this is the last weekend before Halloween maybe I can squeeze it in among my many other projects I have planed. I bet if I told Jake he could paint Mario or a peppermint (his favorite band is the White Stripes) on his, he would even join me.

Our A Pair of Pears store on Etsy is now open for business! Be sure to check it out and let us know what you think.

After weeks of designing and hard work Jake and I are more than excited to give you a little taste of what's to come. Later on this week we will be officially opening our Pair of Pears store on Etsy. For now we chose to focus on linocuts. Our store will feature a few of our favorite designs that we hope to expand in the future. Make sure to check out our store when we open later on this week!

...about our new Coffeemaker.

1. Delayed brew. No more getting out of bed twice before drinking coffee.
2. Permanent filter. No more buying and throwing away disposable filters.
3. Strong brew. It can optionally make a more flavorful cuppa joe.
4. Self cleaning. Add vinegar, press a button, and violà - it's clean!
5. It's bigger, and cooler looking, than our old coffee maker.

Mornings just might not be so painful. But not likely.

The Michigander In Us

Last week Jake and I got to go back to Traverse City, Michigan for some friends of ours wedding. Both of us were really looking forward to seeing family, friends and getting a taste of that wonderful Michigan Fall; It was a much needed trip. Although Jake still had (or should I say got) to work while we were there, we managed to take some time to do some things we wanted. Being in Michigan was such a change from the big city of Los Angeles. The first night both Jake and I noticed how quiet  and dark it was. Even the stores seemed less busy. Needless to say, it was nice.

We even went down town and scoped out a place for our letterpress shop. We found the perfect place just off of Front Street on the same street that Dad B. works. Maybe it will still be available in 5 years. Oh and I also had my first Pasty.

Overall the wedding was beautiful and we had great time. Congratulations Aaron and Lizz and thanks for letting us be a part of your special day.