June 26, 2013

DIY Chalkboard Garden Markers

I am so glad that summer is officially here! Are you growing a summer vegetable garden this year? I've always wanted to, but have never quite gotten around to doing so. Plus, I've always found it to be a little intimidating, especially after a few failed attempts at spring flower gardening. My mother, however, has recently planted a veggie garden in her yard, and it's growing! I wanted to offer some help in the garden, but since I'm lacking a green thumb, I turned to what I know best; a DIY project.


These chalkboard markers are a great way to spice up any garden, and they're easy to make. All you need are some 2 inch wide wood pieces (I got these at Michaels), chalkboard spray paint, white paint, and clear polyurethane wood finish spray paint. Start by spraying a coat of chalkboard spray paint on each of the wood pieces. Once dry, flip them over and spray the other side. Then, repeat this process with a second coat of spray paint.


Rather than using actual chalk to write the names of the vegetables on the markers, use white paint so that it won't wash off when you water your garden or when it rains. Once the paint dries, apply a coat of the clear polyurethane wood finish spray paint to protect the markers from the outdoor elements.


I decided to make a little sign for my mother's garden as well, using lyrics from a favorite childhood song. I took a small painting that I had gotten from a yard sale, sprayed chalkboard paint over the painting, then screwed a blank marker to the back. I applied a coat of the clear spray paint to the final product.




My mother's garden is looking better than ever with her new garden markers, and I can't wait to see how it will look once all the veggies grow!




June 17, 2013

Animal Rescue League of Boston Sculpture Reveal

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending an event at the Animal Rescue League of Boston where a brand new sculpture was unveiled on the front lawn. The sculpture, "Dancing with Spheres", was created by David Phillips, and presented as a gift to the ARL by local artist Tony Lopez. If you haven't heard of the Animal Rescue League before, it is an amazing non-profit organization devoted to rescuing and protecting animals from abuse and neglect. I was first introduced to the Animal Rescue League by Elizabeth Dobrska, the marketing professional at ARL Boston, who I've met with at various events in Boston. When she told me about the sculpture unveiling, I was thrilled to be able to attend and get a first peek at the latest public art piece in Boston. And now, I'm so happy to be able to share the art with you. 



The sculpture, located in the dog play yard, is being referred to as "a place where art and animals come to play". And doesn't it look like just that? The animals featured in the sculpture are adorable, and if you're in the area you should definitely make a point to stop by and see it in person. And, if you're looking for a new pet, you should absolutely consider adopting a rescued animal.  My sister and her fiance just adopted a rescued puppy 2 months ago, so I can tell you first hand how rewarding it is to see a rescued animal find their forever home!






For more information and updates on the Animal Rescue League, make sure to check out their website or follow them on twitter!