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Thursday, March 26, 2009

FFF: Unique ... Nursery

I've been looking for an excuse to share these photos and tell this story ... without seeming ridiculously, blatantly random. A big thanks to this week's FFF theme for giving me the opportunity!



Natalie's ABC Nursery
Not knowing your baby’s gender, in my opinion, simply heightens the anticipation. Of course it can also complicate matters, especially when it comes time to decorate the nursery. I was bound and determined to avoid pastels and the gimmicky, themed nursery - neither suits my style or, more importantly, my personality! And that's why creating a fun, interesting space for my new little bundle of joy required 26 willing participants from 8 different states: Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, Virginia, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, and Washington.
I mean, why “Do It Yourself” when you can get your family and friends to do it for you, right? That’s exactly what I set out to do, and I must tell you the result is a nursery unlike any other, a true one-of-a-kind. It's, well, UNIQUE!




The idea came to me in a dream - a fairly common source of inspiration. I saw letters of the alphabet in an art gallery; each letter designed by a different artist. So I ordered 8” x 8” square canvases and mailed one to each of my 26 dearest and willing family members and friends. Along with the canvas, I sent a set of directions (aka a task card - because I'm a teacher and that's how I roll!) and a list of colors that would give me the bright, colorful results I was hoping for. Some of the artists were a little reluctant, but each one is a work of art and a labor of love. I can't tell you how often I've pointed to a letter and told Natalie about the person who painted it for her, how we know that person, and what I love about that person.

Here's a closer look at each letter. I think you'll agree, the art in Natalie's nursery is without a doubt ... UNIQUE. Each of the 26 letters was created by someone who loved her before she was even born.


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Another little part of this story worth mentioning ... my friend, ChitownMomma, was pregnant at the same time, and she borrowed my idea; also creating a unique nursery for her little guy. She only used three colors: off-white, light blue, and medium blue - and got very different but equally adorable results. She designed my "T" and I did the "V" for her alphabet. She's due with her second nugget at the end of May and she's asking family/friends to make letters again ... this time in shades more appropriate for a girl :)


10 comments:

DDBBmom said...

I love that unique idea! Your daughter is surrounded by love!

Melinda said...

What a creative idea!! Adore the idea that loved ones made it extra special by joining in. Your little one will cherish this for years to come!

Melinda

Lund7 said...

What a cute and educational idea for a nursery!!! I love it!

nora said...

What a great idea! And perfect to involve everyone in your family! I love it! Thanks for posting.

Rebekah said...

What an amazing idea ... I love the results ... what a beautiful nursery with a unique story behind it! Thanks for sharing and have a great weekend!

Rebekah, Jaden and Charlotte

Chi-town momma said...

So happy to have such a creative friend to leech ideas from! I absolutely love Benjamin's alphabet, too! It is so special for him to have these wonderful masterpieces made with love! It is even better knowing that while we live far away and don't get to see our friends and family as often as we would like (there are still some he hasn't met!), that there is a little piece of them with B everyday!

Oliver'sMom said...

Ummmm...I am sooooo stealing this one! What an great idea Dana!

Go Zesty with Dee! said...

I Love it! Glad you had the chance to post about it! :-)

supahmommy- somethin's wrong with that girl said...

that is the BEST idea i've ever seen

i might have to just go ahead and have another kid so that i can do this;

or maybe not.
lol!! i'm going to share wtih some of my preggy friends.
xoxo

The Princess of Sarcasm said...

THIS IS AWESOME! I wish I was having another baby. :(

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