Redos and Road Trips

We made a trip down to Troy, Alabama to have lunch with our friends Shaunna and Matt on Friday, and after we got done chowin’ down, we got to see how things were coming along in their dining room. This is a photo of the room before they started switchin’ things around…

I had some fun creating an inspiration drawing for them a couple months back…

…and, much to my surprise and delight, they’ve been busy little bees putting the plan into action! Check it out- here’s a sneak peek of one of the bookcases Matt built around the windows…

And here’s a sneak peek at the inexpensive wood panelling they attached to the wall to the left of the bookcase…

(They were also busy preparing for their daughter Ava’s 2nd birthday party’s that day!)

I’d love to show you more photos of the room, but it’s not quiiiiite done yet. Among other little odds and ends, they’ve still got a dining room table to build and a window seat cushion to upholster. I can. not wait. to see it when it’s all put together!

And speaking of room redos, Kev and I leave for Denver this week (yay!) to meet up with the folks at High Noon Entertainment. We’re gettin’ together to go over the details of our upcoming pilot shoot, and we’re looking forward to crashin’ at The Pioneer Woman’s pad on the way back to ‘Bama…

We hope to stop by and photograph her friend Hyacinth’s newly-finished living room too…

Me, Holly and Melissa worked with her on it last year, and I’m anxious to see how it all came together live and in person!

Click the badge above to read more about that redo adventure!

Ree’s redecorating a room over at her house right now called the Long Room…

I told her I’d love to see what’s goin’ on in there. Looks like a whole buncha fun waiting to happen! Hmmmm…my presto change-o finger is starting to twitch again….

We look forward to blogging and vlogging about the whole shebang along the way. Wish us luck…it’s going to be a loooong drive!

PS- Are you buying a house in the near future? Is it in Alabama? Drop us a line at LaylaPalmer (at) aol (dot) com if you are and it is!

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74 Responses to Redos and Road Trips

1. Lynn from For Love or Funny says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 7:15 am

   Oh, wow! You’re going to get to stay with PW?? I’m jealous! She is a delight; I’ll bet you’ll have so much fun. Have a great trip!

   

   Reply
   • Layla says:

     Jul 18, 2011 at 7:24 am

     Hi Lynn! We’re excited to see the ranch and are beyond tickled she invited us to crash there!

     

     Reply
2. Lana says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 7:30 am

   Well, Hot Dang!!! They certainly jumped in and got to work on that dining room and it’s looking AWESOME!!!!!!

   And a DOUBLE HOT DANG for your pilot shoot AND PW visit.

   Really, in one sentence–pilot shoot and PW…….BOTH in the SAME TRIP??!?!?!??!!

   God is a-smilin’ down on ya’ll!!!!!!!

   And you deserve it!!!!!

   Hugs/blessings,
   Lana In Italy (Until September!)

   

   Reply
   • Layla says:

     Jul 18, 2011 at 7:39 am

     Well thank you for the sweet comment Lana!
     A few years back we decided to let passion take the reigns, so who knows what’ll happen…we’re just thankful to be along for the ride!

     

     Reply
     • Debbie from the Wichita Mtns. says:

       Jul 18, 2011 at 8:23 am

       One amazingly full life!

       

       Reply
3. Sarah says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 7:31 am

   That dining room looks amazing! I keep thinking paneling in our house, but we just put up new drywall, so I’m not sure if I can get my husband on board with that.

   Can’t wait to hear about your visit with the Pioneer Woman!

   

   Reply
   • Layla says:

     Jul 18, 2011 at 7:45 am

     Yeah, he may not want to tear that pretty new drywall down quite yet!

     

     Reply
4. Debbie is reFresh reStyle says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 7:32 am

   Sounds like you guys are living the dream~have fun! I’m looking forward to finished dining area, the party looks so festive!
   Debbie

   

   Reply
   • Layla says:

     Jul 18, 2011 at 7:44 am

     We can’t wait to see the dining room again too, Debbie! They’re doing such a great job with it!

     

     Reply
5. tracyo says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 7:44 am

   So happy for you guys! What fun!!!

   

   Reply
   • Layla says:

     Jul 18, 2011 at 7:46 am

     Thank you Tracy! We’re excited to see what happens…either way, we’re just gonna concentrate on having fun!

     

     Reply
6. Nancy says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 7:47 am

   Cannot wait to hear all about your adventures!! It must be so fun to see your plans become reality in other people’s houses. I need some plans!! Good luck on the shoot!

   

   Reply
7. Flower Patch Farmgirl says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 7:48 am

   NO Waysies!!!! Girl – you are too much fun. I cannot believe you’re crashing THERE and…I adore Shauna’s DR!

   Maybe you and I can chat again one of these days. Maybe on one of your driving days? (Or are you flying???)

   XO!

   

   Reply
   • Layla says:

     Jul 18, 2011 at 7:53 am

     Driving…and yes, we MUST chat. I’ll call you when we hit the road!

     XO!

     

     Reply
8. Annie says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 7:58 am

   Lucky duck, I would love to go to the Pioneer Ranch. It looks like a great place. Hope you get to do some shooting while your there.

   

   Reply
   • Layla says:

     Jul 18, 2011 at 8:00 am

     We’ll definitely have our trusty camera in tow!

     

     Reply
9. Jennifer says:

   Jul 18, 2011 at 8:04 am

   Staying with the PW?! So fun!!! I am completely jealous! I hope you guys have a safe trip! Shiny side up.
   We are trying to buy a house in Richmond, VA, please say that will work

   

   Reply
10. Beverly Palmer says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:09 am

    Love the sneak peeks at the dining room! Can you give us some info on the inexpensive wood paneling? I can’t wait to hear all about your pilot shoot and your visit with PW. Sounds like every women’s dream!

    

    Reply
11. Shaunna says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:12 am

    We LOVED getting to see you guys…and love the pic! Thanks for making time to see us before the big trip…cannot wait to hear all about your adventures!!
    xoxo
    shaunna

    

    Reply
12. Debbie from the Wichita Mtns. says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:18 am

    Wow, you, Kevin and Ree all together would be great times. Enjoy the road trip and keep us posted along the way.

    

    Reply
13. Fairfield House says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:24 am

    Layla,

    Shaunna’s dining room looks awesome so far. Mat did a great job on the built ins!

    Have a safe journey and have fun on your newest adventure. Kiss Charlie for me!

    Your Friend,
    Deborah

    

    Reply
14. Laura says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:34 am

    I’m drooling a little over the dining room, but mostly because I’m thinking about the food you will get to eat at PW’s house! Holy cannolis, Batman! (And she probably has a wonderful recipe for those, too.) Have a sweet time!

    

    Reply
15. AJ says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:38 am

    I’m buying a house! But I’m in Georgia. That’s not too far, right? Can’t wait to read about your trips.

    

    Reply
16. Estela @ Weekly Bite says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:47 am

    Can’t wait to see the adventures of your upcoming trip

    

    Reply
17. Pamela says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:53 am

    Very jealous of you visiting PW!!! Have fun and take lots of pictures!

    

    Reply
18. Molly Faircloth says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 9:04 am

    Since I grew up in Troy, it’s such a kick to see that you got there recently. My brother & family are still there where he’s a pastor of a new church…anyway, it was fun to see the hometown mentioned. I think that’s one of the reasons I so enjoy seeing what you and Kevin are up to – I worked in Montgomery for many years, so know exactly where many of the places you mention are located.

    Cheers!

    

    Reply
19. Susana of Montessori Candy says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 9:20 am

    Ooh la la! How cool! I am loving it. How exciting! Can’t wait to see more.

    

    Reply
20. Leen Curinga says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 9:20 am

    Shaunna’s dining room is looking good! I need her help with my display shelves, she has such a knack for it.

    Have fun on your road trip! I knew you weren’t flying to Denver

    Looking forward to hearing all about your trip!

    

    Reply
21. sarita says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 9:21 am

    isn’t the internet CRAZY FUN!! how many people have met – both online and in person because of this web thingy!!! :^) wow – the dining room was very forml – can’t wait to see it finished..love the banner they had up for their daughters birthdday! maybe put it inside one of the book shelves ! very colorful..thank you both for all that you share with us.

    

    Reply
22. Mandy says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 9:55 am

    Layla, I’ll be staying at PW’s this Saturday and Sunday. Will you be there then? I’d be so excited to meet you! You and PW are my faves! I’ll be there for the cooking/photography weekend. Let me know!

    

    Reply
    • Layla says:

      Jul 18, 2011 at 9:56 am

      No…it won’t be for a couple weeks. Would have loved to have met you in person!

      

      Reply
      • Mandy says:

        Jul 18, 2011 at 10:04 am

        Oh man! Well, if you’re ever coming through the OKC area, let me know! Hope you guys have fun!

        

        Reply
23. Loui♥ says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 10:10 am

    Hi Guys..
    I’m in Denver, just blocks away from Cherry Creek shopping district..
    any chance we could do a meet and greet?
    if so, let me know and I’ll forward my phone#
    Welcome to Denver!
    warmest hugs..
    Loui♥

    

    Reply
24. Dawn says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 10:12 am

    WOW, I am in awe! You are crashing at PW’s ranch! Awesome and the other stuff sounds great too! Have fun and drive safe! Don’t forget those of us here at “home” anxiously awaiting your blog along the way!

    

    Reply
25. pillowville says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 10:12 am

    Love the dining room rodo!! All the white is wonderful and great job on the built-ins.

    Safe travels! What an adventure. Sounds like non stop fun and inspiration.

    

    Reply
26. Meggie says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 11:05 am

    First off- WELCOME TO DENVER- I know you’ll enjoy your stay here! If you need any suggestions on where to go, what to do with any free time you might have while here, let me know! From a born-and-bred Colorado Girl, have a great time! We’re glad you’re here!

    

    Reply
    • Layla says:

      Jul 18, 2011 at 12:41 pm

      Thank you Meggie! We’ll only be there for about 24 hours, but we can’t wait to get there!

      

      Reply
27. Alima says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 11:10 am

    ahhh!! Tell PW I said Hi! You are so lucky to get to spend some time I had ranch! I am so jealous! Can’t wait to see all about your trip when you get back!

    

    Reply
28. Karen says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 12:43 pm

    Love that DR design board. It looks like they’re doing a great job implementing your ideas. Good luck with the pilot! I’m so excited at the prospect of seeing you guys on HGTV. I know it’ll be a blast staying with Ree at the ranch…be sure to take lots of pics so we can share in the fun.

    

    Reply
29. kelly says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 1:00 pm

    i really want to see that finished dining room! and i think PW needs your help with that long room, you could make it fabulous for the girls! this small little blogging world, kind of weird;)
    we are buying a new house, it is not in alabama! i would love to see what you would do to it though! might email when we get in!

    

    Reply
30. Tina K says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 1:02 pm

    So excited you get to stay with PW! Hoping you can work some more of your Layla magic and of course photograph it!

    We’re building a house and we do live in AL…just emailed you!

    

    Reply
31. Erin says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 1:41 pm

    Welcome to Denver! We just moved here a few months ago and L.O.V.E. it! I’ll keep my eyes peeled for a celebrity sighting of you two. Enjoy your stay!

    p.s. If you need ice cream while you’re here (and who doesn’t?), check out these two places: Sweet Action around 5th & Broadway, and Little Man Ice Cream at 16th & Tejon in the Highlands neighborhood. You can’t miss the giant metal milk can building!

    

    Reply
32. Shelly Reil says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 1:44 pm

    Denver is in my backyard!! Well, to be truthful, 3 hours away. If you want to visit Nebraska, come on thru Ogallala and visit me and Lake McConaughy one of the largest manmade lakes in the country. It is beautiful and a huge surprise – it is our inland ocean. Anyway, just a thought

    

    Reply
33. Jane Crawford says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 1:47 pm

    You and kevin have such a wonderful life, and I think that is so awesome. Have fun on your travels and tell Ree I said “hi” from Florida. I just love her.

    

    Reply
34. lori lucas says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 4:12 pm

    I just bought a new (old) house. Great big and just waiting on some lovin’, which I have been giving it all summer! AND I like close to Pioneer Woman! You are welcome to use my home for more projects! Have a great trip. Lori L

    

    Reply
35. Kim says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 4:53 pm

    I am so excited for you guys. I have been following along here for a vary long time and it has been so exciting to see so many of your dreams coming true. You deserve every bit of joy!!!

    

    Reply
36. Leslie from Onesie Twosie says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 8:45 pm

    Wow. I am learning so much from you. Inexpensive wood paneling?!? That stuff rocks! I need to learn more about that and see if the hubby would let me put some in…somewhere…anywhere. I might have to send you a pic of our guest bedroom and get your ideas…

    

    Reply
37. Kate says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 11:01 pm

    What a fun trip you’ve got planned! I recently discovered your blog while looking for ideas for my daughters bedroom. She’s gonna be a big sister in October, so we’re doing a big girl room! We live in Arvada, which is a suburb of Denver. What are the odds; ) Best wishes!

    

    Reply
38. Kim says:

    Jul 18, 2011 at 11:26 pm

    Wow! So exciting, and so happy for you and Kev! I have driven past PW’s ranch several times on my way to Bartlesville to see a friend and it is awesome.

    

    Reply
39. Geri Greco says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 6:52 am

    Prayers and wishes for an amazing journey
    to friends and future dreams.
    Hugs. Geri.

    

    Reply
40. Roeshel says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 8:51 am

    The dining room peek is gorgeous! I just love your style. It’s instantly recognizable. Want a TLC room in my home!

    Sounds like it’s packed full of fun! Can’t wait for the details and pictures! Have a fun and safe trip!!!

    

    Reply
41. Teresa says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 9:52 am

    If you are driving to Denver, from the map it looks like you are going to be going right through my town in arkansas. Ree doesn’t live but about three hours or so from me.

    

    Reply
42. Teresa says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 9:58 am

    To finish my comment….give me a shout if you have the time.

    

    Reply
43. Katie says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 10:37 am

    Surprised to hear you are leaving for Denver this week. Be sure and let us know when. Will we get to see you before you leave. Hope so. I know your trip is going to be a lot of fun. Love you both.

    

    Reply
44. JaneyBrainey says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 10:37 am

    I am inspired to pare down thanks to you! I can’t wait to see what you do on the road:-D

    

    Reply
45. Cindy says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 11:20 am

    So crazy! I only recently discovered your blog, Layla — shortly before reading Pioneer Woman’s post asking for ideas for re-doing their “long room” for her girls. I started to send her a comment suggesting she check in with you for ideas or a Pick My Presto feature. But alas, I got interrupted that day, didn’t send my comment to Ree & never got back to it. How fun to just read that you’re already buddies and get to actually have a personal visit soon! Enjoy your trip– road trips are wonderful, especially with the right traveling companion

    

    Reply
46. Lisa @ Life in Green says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 11:45 am

    Can’t wait to hear about the visit to the PW ranch!

    Love your blog…such good inspiration!

    

    Reply
47. Liz says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 12:29 pm

    oh. wow. can you please tell ree how much she is loved at our little run down farm in alabama! i adore you guys. have fun and safe travels.

    

    Reply
48. Heather Boyd @ TheCozyCape says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 1:25 pm

    Layla! Kevin! I’m so happy for you that your pilot espisode shoot is upon you! Yay! I know you’ll do great!

    Way to go!
    Heather

    

    Reply
49. Rae says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 2:31 pm

    WOWSIE!!!!! T.V. pilot and Pioneer Woman all in one trip, I am so excited for you! I am being completely honest when I say Lettered Cottage and Pioneer Woman are my 2 favorite blogs, I stalk you daily through Twitter, Facebook, and your blog. Don’t worry I’m not dangerous….. Anxious to see what your ideas on the Long Room are. Just that name The Long Room reminds me of the movie with Lucy and Desi, The Long Long Trailer…..If you’ve never seen it you should, it’s hilarious……Have a safe trip…

    

    Reply
50. flowerpowermomma says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 2:54 pm

    wishing you safe travels. if you get stuck, or stranded in the southwest Kansas area…let me know. I”mo only 1 hr from Dodge City, KS!
    good luck w/the pilot!

    

    Reply
51. Fiona's Mosaic says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 6:02 pm

    Oh my gosh!!! YOUR the Layla that helped with Melissa on Hycynths living room. I’m a friend of Melissa’s and I did not put that together that that was you. So cool!!! You guys did an amazing job on it!

    God bless!

    

    Reply
52. Michele Barry says:

    Jul 19, 2011 at 9:34 pm

    WOW! So jealous that you get to stay at PW’s! I dream of cooking with her and decorating with you!! I am only about an hour from her area of the prairie. The tall grass prairie is a beautiful place. You will see lots of cattle, buffalo, and pretty wildflowers Be prepared to be HOT! We’ve been under a massive heat wave for days with no end in sight.

    Have a safe and fabulous trip!
    Michele

    

    Reply
53. tanya rogers says:

    Jul 20, 2011 at 11:17 am

    in the room with the flowers hanging from the ceiling, for ava’s birthday part… were those hand made or can you purchase them? i’ve been looking for those everywhere… thank you!

    

    Reply
54. Erin says:

    Jul 20, 2011 at 6:28 pm

    I love seeing this update! I am in the midst of painting our beach cottage’s wood paneling and it is great fun to see how well their’s tunred out! Thanks for the update!!

    

    Reply
55. Amber says:

    Jul 20, 2011 at 11:49 pm

    I live in Denver and if there is one restaurant you should make a point to check out while you are in town, it’s Snooze for brunch! Park Burger is our favorite burger spot in town. Hope you enjoy your time in Denver!

    

    Reply
56. Lisa~ says:

    Jul 21, 2011 at 8:57 pm

    I made my own trip to Troy, AL this week and saw Shaunna’s dining room in progress. It is looking wonderful! They are such a charming family….I just adore her! Lisa~

    

    Reply
57. Vicki says:

    Jul 22, 2011 at 11:07 am

    So many great things happening for you. Very exciting! Can’t wait to see you and Kev on TV!

    

    Reply
58. Wendy @ The Shabby Nest says:

    Jul 22, 2011 at 11:36 am

    Hey Lady…so funny! I had a dream about you guys and your new show! In my dream, it was a hit! I *do* think I may be clarivoyant!! Let’s hope so anyway, shall we??

    

    Reply
59. Megan Kriser says:

    Jul 23, 2011 at 1:17 pm

    You and your sweetie have some great ideas and are just adorable. By the way I think we should be friends! I live in Bama too .

    

    Reply
60. lilwhitelife says:

    Jul 29, 2011 at 12:34 pm

    Hi Layla! I just recently found your site by visiting Sarah’s A Beach Cottage…,love that site and am soo glad thru hers I found yours. I love your decorating taste and style and am so impressed with the life you get to live. Must be a blast. I’ll be back soon. BTW we’re in Mississippi about 15 miles from the coast and just built a home about 2 years ago kinda 40′s lookin farmhouse/beachhouse? We were on the coast when Katrina hit and got 4 ft of water in that home so had to start from scratch with furnishing this one. What we have was either yardsale finds, which I just so happen to LOVE, thrift store bargains, also sucker for, or were gifted to us. I know what I like when I see it (I have an attic full) just have trouble pulling things together which is why I have been lurking around blogs like yours… for inspiration and girl your designs are definitly inspiring. So now… I’m off. You’ve made me want to go thrifting . Later. Take care and have fun

    

    Reply
61. Heidi Pason says:

    Jul 30, 2011 at 12:58 am

    LOVE the green and blue pillow!!! Where did you find it??

    

    Reply
62. Michelle says:

    Sep 7, 2011 at 1:22 pm

    Hi! I live close to Troy, Alabama!! I love the dining room! May I ask the photographer that took the little boy’s picture on the wall?
    Thanks!!!

    

    Reply

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