Reuse, Recylce

As I sorted through the stack of mail this weekend, amongst the numerous bills *sigh*, was a coupon book. Hardly extraordinary by usual standards, but this one only featured coupons for 2nd hand stores, recycling centers, Goodwill, etc. It was put out by one of my utility companies for which I am very impressed and it was one of the few things that didn't get pitched (into the recycling bin of course).

I a very proud to see the reuse, recycle initiative gaining steam and while not all things are as 'green' as they seem, we are still better off for a heightened awareness of making do with what we already have. The old adage, 'one man's junk, is another man's treasure' is a good motto in today's world of over-consumption, over-packaging, and over-spending.

The hubby and I recently helped his parents give their one and only bathroom a face lift. One of their requests was a solid wood, oval mirror. A seemingly simple request, until you attempt to locate said item. I know we could have special ordered it or went to a high end store to purchase one, but we were on a Big Box store budget and I defy you to find anything made of solid wood there. On a whim, we stopped by our local Goodwill store, where we have found numerous treasures of which I am very proud, and happened to find just the perfect mirror. Sort of. Below are pictures of it's transformation from ugly country duckling (sorry to those of you who liked it as it was) and how with a little elbow grease we transformed it. Scroll to the bottom to see the rockbottom price tag we snagged it at.

 Apologies for the image quality. I forgot to take before photos and had to snap some mid-progress ones with my phone.

 Close up of the country, crackle treatment, hand-painted flowers goodness this mirror was rocking.

Before and after of the bathroom where the new mirror is a fabulous upgrade that matches the custom vanity. Vanity courtesy of Siegle Woodworks. (also note the increase of counter space for which I am most proud!)

Somewhat close-up of the NEW mirror. 

Any guesses on how much we paid for the diamond in the rough? $9.99!! My Grandma Wanda, at whose side I learned the joys of bargain hunting, would be so proud of me :)