Hello everyone,
Some of you already know that last week I had to put Freddi down. The past few days have been difficult and sad. My heart is broken.
Every day for for the last 18 years, this little dog with big personality gave me her unconditional love. Always by my side making me laugh and smile…. she was family. This love was a special gift… and I’m blessed to have had her in my life.
I know all you animal lovers understand because the response on FB has been overwhelming. Thank you to every one of you who took the time to offer your support. Although I wasn’t online last week, I did pop in to read every single post and found comfort in all your kindness.
Here’s what I’ve been working on to keep my mind off things.
This pine desk (and chair) are both rescue pieces.
The desk has been re-styled with General Finishes Java Gel Stain and Lamp Black Milk Paint. Before applying the Java Gel Stain, I lightly sanded the entire desk just enough to remove the shiny finish and then applied the Java over the pre-existing stain.
The Java darkened the original stain considerably but left the warm undertones.
The chair has been left in the same condition I found it in. I’m going to keep this interesting piece for staging. I love it. It’s solid wood with beautiful curves and details, but I haven’t decided how I’m going to re-finish it yet. Any idea’s?
I’m really happy with the new hardware on this desk.
These tarnished brass/wood knobs where purchased for 25¢ each at the Re-Store. I wish I had taken before pics because the original wood was blonde.
I gave each knob a light sanding and then applied a few coats of Java Gel Stain to match the finish on the desk. It ties everything in really nicely and makes for a handsome piece.
The four pulls on the bottom drawers were purchased new from Lee Valley.
The desk has been finished and protected with General Finishes High Performance Top Coat in Flat. I usually use my spray-gun to apply top coat but this time I used a foam brush. It leveled beautifully.
Once again, thank you for your support. If you’ve left a comment/question on the blog or my email recently, I’ll do my very best to get back to everyone this week.
Also, Quick-Tip-Tuesday will be back again tomorrow.
Have a blessed day,
Denise x
Hello again... I'm so happy you dropped by! Let's keep in touch! Follow me on social media or sign up for a dose of furniture painting inspiration and diy tutorials. :) 
I know how u feel about your dog since I had to put to sleep my beloved Sophy my companion on the worst and the good ones, always giving he unconditional love and make me smile in my soul and heart, it has been about 8 months and still cry when I remember her last minutes and I talk to her frequently. I miss her so so much. Luckily for me I still have Sasha my beloved crazy diva who somehow help me to keep going. Hang in there and in the future u may have a place in your heart to adopt a shelter dog…those are so grateful for being saved Good luck
Thank you for this and I’m so sorry for the loss of your beloved Sophy. It’s so difficult to lose a fur-kid and extra devastating having to make the decision. My home feels so empty without Freddi yet whenever I think of getting another dog, I feel a tinge of guilt, then sadness. I hope these feeling pass in time because as you said, there are so many beautiful dogs that could use a loving home. You are very blessed to have your Sasha to help you through the grief. All the best to you Trishia. x
Loss of a pet is never easy. You heart,will make room….for another. Beautiful job on the desk. I think the chair, needs some love too…. A little stain, to match the desk……..maybe, some painted line work to bring out the fleur de lis type design…. Beautiful, chair….BTW.
Thank you Betty. <3 And I think you're right about the chair... a little TLC will really bring out the beauty. I just haven't decided exactly what I'm going to do with it yet but probably will stain it rather than paint it.
So so sorry to hear about you losing your little dog. Lord how I know that feeling. I’ve been doing animal rescue for 25 years so I’ve suffered a lot of loss over the years. It’s never easy. You and your baby were so fortunate and blessed to have each other for so many years. She’s at the Rainbow Bridge waiting for you to join her one day.
As for the desk, it’s beautiful. Great job.
Thank you for this Patsy. It’s been a few weeks and my heart still aches. Freddi was my ‘baby’ and the very best friend, roomy, and co-worker a girl could ever ask for. I miss her terribly. It really helps when people like yourself understand this loss and reach out with kindness. Thank you.
Sorry to hear about your doggie. We lost ours over a year ago, and still miss him dearly! They never let you down, always there for you by your side and listen to every word you say. Your desk is beautiful and great photography too! Take care!
So sorry to hear about your loss. It’s so very hard. And so true, it’s an unconditional love that never lets you down. But I have to say, Freddi didn’t listen to my every word…lol. Look, I’m laughing … progress! Thanks for dropping by Judy… good to hear from you again!
Your work is always fabulous. I am so pleased to have found this website. All my children have paws. And I have loved and said goodbye to so many…A famed psychic once said: When we enter heaven, our loved ones have to stand back and wait to greet us because we are surrounded by all our animals who have been waiting for us to come home. And since I am more excited about seeing my babies then a lot of my relatives (lol) that gives me something to look forward to. It’s a blessing to have been allowed to love so many–and I know there are always more waiting and needing to be loved. We can’t replace the ones we’ve lost, but thankfully we are allowed to love some more. Love never dies. Best wishes to you and yours. Shene’
Shene… you’ve touched my heart with this comment… and made me smile which I haven’t been doing enough of these past few days. Thank you. x
Oh Denise!
I am soooo sorry to hear about your loss! I’m sure your heart is breaking but take comfort in the memories of your beloved friend! Keep busy with your projects, as usual, they are beautiful.
Thinking of you,
Tess
You’re very sweet Tess…thank you sooooo much! x
So sorry. Seeing that picture of Freddi at the end of your post just brought tears to my eyes. Our dogs are such a blessing from God.
Thank you Cindy.<3 Our dogs really are a blessing. No judgement or drama... just LOVE.
Little Freddi is not gone.. just away… in your memory forever wagging,licking and loving you…..memories keep those we love alive forever.
I hope you do a special piece and dedicate it to Freddi and then show it to us here on your work page… that would be awesome… what do you think? A salvaged frame for Freddi’s picture… maybe even a dog house worthy of the front porch or deck.. with Freddi’s name on top… because when Freddi comes to visit in spirit she will enjoy what you have done to immortalize her. Blessings to you during this very difficult time. A dog lover too!
Thank you Maria… I know all you pet-parents/dog lovers get it. I so appreciate the support. I really like your dedicated piece idea… although I’m not sure I’m ready to do that just yet.
What a beautiful desk! You did a fabulous job of bringing it to life 🙂 I love the chair that you paired with it for the photo shoot. I pray that you have a better week and hope that each memory of your little furry friend brings more smiles than tears. God bless!
Thank you so much Heidi!!! <3