The Dappled Willow

I know, I’m late with this update. Unfortunately other things have taken priority lately but I’m still very much committed to this ORC and determined to see this project through to the end. We did do demo in Week 2 but I’ll have more on that later.

For this entry I just wanted to note how important the prep is for this kind of reno/refresh project.

I’m not talking about cleaning, or sanding, or priming.

Head

First and foremost I’m talking about the mental prep.

There is so much to plan when taking on any project. Making design choices, ordering and gathering tools, materials and supplies, scheduling and managing timelines. I find I spend so much time dreaming (duh, that’s easy) but have to remind myself to stay on top of all the planning.

So much needs to happen before lifting a tool or a brush. And that’s all on top of the normal day-to-day mental load like the kids needs, appointments, playdates, laundry, meals, baths, etc!

Then another aspect of mental prep is mentally preparing anyone else who may be impacted by or involved in the project. They may need time to adjust to the idea and prepare for their routines to be disturbed.

Ideally the project details including end date can be clearly communicated before it begins and as things change so expectations can be managed. I’ve learned over the years it’s best to talk to Daniel early and often about my project ideas. I used to keep more to myself and only share one step at a time with him. Let’s take my first Budget Room Refresh for example:

“I just want to paint our room.”

“How about we put up a feature wall?” (Simple and Affordable DIY Grid Pattern Board and Batten)

“I want to try wallpapering in the closet.”

“We should declutter our entire wardrobes.” (How To Get Your Husband to Declutter His Closet)

“Let’s install this closet organizer.” (5 Affordable Ways to Improve Your Bedroom Closet)

“I had an idea for a cool curtain rod.” (How to Hang a Curtain Rod Without Brackets)

Etcetera. Etcetera.

I knew I wanted to do all of those things but I was afraid of overwhelming him by coming right out with the entire project list. In the end, he felt like I was coming at him with one thing after another with no end in sight. It wasn’t fair to him.

And he’s also an excellent contributor. He often helps me improve on my designs by asking great questions and challenging my rationale on certain choices.

Then there’s the kids too who need to be kept in the loop. And I’ll mention grandparents, aunts, uncles and any other babysitters who may be called on more often as the project starts and progresses.

Heart

Second is the emotional prep. Any reno, big or small, takes an emotional toll. It can be so life-giving when things are working and so draining when they don’t go as expected.

Also, remember how I said Daniel asks questions and challenges my design choices? Ultimately it does make for a better result but it can be tough when it comes across as negative criticism instead of helpful critique.

I try to go into all of my projects knowing it’s not going to be easy. Especially since I like to try new things and challenge myself. It seems obvious, of course trying something for the first time isn’t going to be easy, but I’m always excited and full of energy at the beginning of a project. No matter what there’s always a point where I wonder why I even bothered starting – why would I think I could do this?

I find it’s important to surround myself with the right inspiration during a project. By this I mean to follow the content creators who bring me joy, and mute or unfollow those who may not. There are so many DIY inspo accounts on social media who make it all look breezy. It can be hard not to get down seeing so many beautifully curated homes and feeds. I so appreciate the ones who share their DIY struggles. I try to do that too so others can learn from my mistakes. Seeing others share their ups and downs is inspiring and comforting.

And a final point about emotional prep is to make sure to have support people. Those who will listen when the project is going well or not so well. I find it’s so helpful and essential to have Daniel, my mom and dad, my siblings, my besties and all those in my comments and messages cheering me on to the finish line.

Home

Finally, there’s the practical prep.

Whenever one area is being worked on it is bound to impact another area of the house. For example my current One Room Challenge has disturbed my entry/closet/mudroom/pantry/broom closet and all of the contents of those storage spaces have spilled into other areas of the house.

I’ve had to bring a coat stand from one room to the living room so we still have somewhere to hang coats. I bought other cabinets to contain our pantry goods temporarily, one in the front entrance and one in the kitchen, but those will eventually go down to our basement on either side of our TV. We’ve had to find other places for our broom and vacuum. It feels uncomfortable to have all these things in spots where they don’t belong. It’s honestly a mess.

There’s so much more I still need to do to return as much order as possible to our home. Keeping on top of the clutter, dust and tools during a reno is such a struggle but worth it to make easier on everyone in the house. Especially the little ones. Hmm, actually I don’t think they care as much as Dan. In any case, I know prepping and maintaining our home during this reno needs to remain a priority so we can still have peace when each day is done.

Anyway, I hope that’s helpful for anyone about to start or in the midst of a reno. And remember it’s okay to take a step back from the reno work to get to some mental, emotional, or house work. You can always pick up where you left off once your head, heart and home are in order.

Remember you can follow along on my DIY misadventures on Instagram and Facebook. I post and story inconsistently but try to keep things real, fun, and helpful. I hope you join me!

Cheers,

Lydia

Visit each week of my One Room Challenge™ Here:

Week 1 | Week 2 | Week 3 | Week 4 | Week 5 | Week 6 | Week 7 | Week 8 |

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