The Nesting Hen

I had this akward place between a doorway and my window, and couldn't for the life of me figure out what to put there. In the process of cleaning and trying to find homes for stuff, I came across this old window frame. The frame had been painted black, and was just in general pretty sad looking. I painted it a bright red, the same color as our island, attached a plywood backing that was painted with chalkboard paint, and voila! It's like it was made for that space! It's the perfect space for notes, grocery list, or honey-do lists.  Do you have a unique chalkboard in your kitchen?

Everyone has a collection. Something that you were simply drawn to or something that you have a personal tie with. Mine is a bit of both. My matchbox holder collection reminds me of simpler times that I didn't get to experience. When it was necessary to have matches in the kitchen to light your stove. The silver one in particular holds a special place in my heart. My Great-great-grandfather held a patent for a matchbox holder cut from a single piece of metal. This matchbox is identical to the drawings in his patent. I love the variety of colors, designs, and styles. When we moved into our new house, I couldn't find the right place or method to display them. I wanted to keep them together, as I think they make more of an impact. I finally found the perfect way to display them. This little black shelf houses most of them perfectly, and the space really needed something. I even have room to add more to my collection! (P.S. Don't mind the...