Every time we would sit down to eat at the dining table, I'd look over at my collection of cookbooks and cooking magazines and grow frustrated. I knew there had to be a better system that looked better. I also knew it was on me to organize them. It wasn't like Sammy was going to take care of it.

Here's a before and after. It's very subtle and I'm probably the only one that can tell the difference. You know? I'm okay with that.

You will notice the random canning jars full of our bourbon experiments have been properly disposed of. The box of glasses have found a new home. And what started as this humongous pile of magazines...

...was condensed down to fit in the right-hand pocket of the yellow folder. I'm sure it was because I had Sammy's assistance.

My cookbooks are not at all in the order I'd like for them to be. I struggled with keeping them organized by size versus type/cuisine grouped together. As you can see, size won out.

In a dream world, I'll have shelves like this...

Via

The cookbook corner was the first of many little projects I have on my list for organizing and just overall tidying up. Maybe the first signs of fall weather are giving me the boost I need to get things in order so we can properly nest for winter. How about you? Any little organizing projects you'd like/need to tackle?

As you may recall, I tried let my inter artist out. Well the more I looked at that painting above the bed, the more I just didn't like it.

As I mentioned, Sandy helped me focus on a few things I have wanted to accomplish around the house. I purchased this large canvas almost six months ago.

As I've learned more about classic cocktails like the sazerac, sidecar,  and old fashioned to name a few, I've wanted to do whatever I can to perfect them when I make them at home. Knowing that fresh, homemade pasta is better than a box, I figured the same had to apply to a bitter.

We've already established I like a good deal, so it should come as no surprise that I couldn't resist the Groupon for a "make your own bitters lesson" at the Georgetown Spice and Tea Exchange.  This store smelled amazing with a wall of such fragrant spices and herbs. I may have came home with a purchase or two.

Keith and I really took advantage of the three-day weekend. We may have almost taken advantage of it a little too much. It was quite the struggle for both of us to get out of bed.

The weekend involved a little work. Our new blue bed is assembled (thank you, Keith!) and in place with new bedding following an IKEA trip. I’ve decided to share photos once the entire room is complete. Thought I’d go for the dramatic reveal.

We spent quality time with dear friends and their new little man. Who by the way is adorable. Don’t believe me? Check for yourself.

The rest of the time was devoted to becoming reacquainted with our couch and bed. We did absolutely nothing and it was wonderful. The biggest accomplish was making this for breakfast a couple of days.