The New "Old" Nursery

Last summer, Mom and Dad decided to overhaul my old nursery for baby Cait. In anticipation of another little girl, they didn't have to change too much, but you know how that goes...one change leads to another and then another, and before they knew it, they had a "new" nursery that had taken on a very unique feeling just for Cait.

My old bright aqua walls were repainted a soft gray/blue (Blue Pot by Miller). A pink canvas valance replaced the home-made paisley valance that had once covered by black out shades.

While most all of the furniture stayed the same (white works with everything), most all of the personal accents were moved into my new "big girl" room. This left empty shelves and wall space for Caitlin to fill. Below: Caitlin received a teddy bear from Aunt Lois and Uncle Joe just like mine -- it's personalized with her name and birth date. Her bear sits next to our favorite picture together.

The family photo collage remains above the changing table that Daddy created with a removable topper. The dresser was my Mom's when she was a little girl. New art work and "CAIT" hooks flank the dresser on either side.

Mom found these letters at a consignment store -- what a steal!

Since hooks hang down from the letters, Caitlin got her very own tutu -- just like I had. Mom also made a little art project for Cait before we had a name picked out. We lovingly referred to her as "Baby Honey," a name that I picked out all on my own. Mom got to make this out of clay/glaze in a the art room at her school.

While the crib stayed the same, the bedding was purchased new for Cait by Grandma Mary Pat. It is simple and clean, just like my monochromatic aqua bedding had been; however, it is also much more girly and feminine...just like Cait. A hand-painted tree (painted by Mom and Dad) rises above the crib and two antique silver frames hold keepsake baby pictures of Caitlin and Mom.

An original hand-made mobile (purchased on etsy) spins gently above the crib. Caitlin loves watching the two love-birds spin on their crystal branches.

Original artwork -- Created by Mom; inspired by friend Jenn S. who hosted mom a "sprinkle" and had guests make paper ornaments that would become wall art. The lamp base was recycled from my room. The shade was purchased new from Target and covered with fabric and ribbon by Mom and myself. I love art projects!

More original wall art -- thanks, Jenn! Two coordinating canvasses with baby animals add a whimsical touch to the nursery.

Of course, Caitlin has her own newborn photograph mounted on the wall, just as I did, but her white frame distinguishes itself from my black frame.

Finishing touches include a soft, fluffy white area rug at the base of the sofa (which doubles as a pull-out hide-a-bed) and yellow nesting tables. Storage boxes are filled with baby toys, though Caitlin doesn't really have interest in them. She'd much rather play with my big girl toys and me!