Rubbing Alcohol: MY HERO!!
Sometimes in the heat of rage and furry, it is best to walk away from the problem (in this case, my 2 year old daughter) and breath deep while focusing on a possible solution. But I will honestly admit, this was not my reaction as I saw bright orange Sharpee all over the walls as well as all over our NEW cream microsuede ottoman and love seat! I screamed, cried, and did everything but breath deep. Thankfully, Nate was home and removed Parker from my line of vision before I went after her. He did the discipline and I sat on the floor in hysterics thinking we would have to buy new furniture after seeing the orange devastation. I have never hated Sharpee markers so...
If you have been following our lives on this blog and as well as facebook, you will know that Parker has a love affair with markers and will sniff them out like a bloodhound. I even think it is funny that Parker and marker rhyme... I am sure I could create a very clever limerick! Well, we have since moved the markers to a 3rd location - Nate's gun safe.
Jill called during my melt down and suggested googling a solution... brilliant idea. I am sure I would have thought of this after I regained my senses. But I did manage to find a solution since it appears that I am not the only mother that has faced this obstacle. The remedy: rubbing alcohol (99%). I was shocked that it removed 90% of it... there is still a faint orange hue in some areas if I look for it, but thankfully, the furniture is saved! Parker is saved! I have decided to keep her after all...
There once was a girl named Parker
Who had a love affair with Sharpee markers
She scribbled on the furniture
With a furry unseen before
And now she has a sore bum and no supper*.
*She actually fell asleep while being in her room during time out and missed lunch.
Master Bath. I am very excited about this tub. Did not have a tub in our Missoula master bath. I would trade this for multiple flower beds any day. 
Master suite.
Guest Bathroom downstairs.
Living room. Next BIG project is to cover the (beautiful) cornice boards with fabric that goes with our decor. You can't see it well, but they are a golden rode and royal blue stripe - Yikes.
Living room fireplace.
House has lots of great features like this wall alcove.
Kitchen
The eat-in kitchen table - a craigslist find.
My secretary desk... one of my favorite pieces. If only Parker would leave it alone!
Dining Room
Sitting room & Dining Room (right of entry)
Entry way
Sitting room... yes, the scene of the crime yesterday (see previous post).
Small alcove where the stairs lead up.
The guest room (downstairs - main level)
Now that the couches have been cleaned and spared, I decided to take some pictures of our new home now that the decorating is done and we are moved in. So, here is the grand tour of our Carlsbad home. Downsizing has its advantages and I am enjoying not having an acre and seven flower beds to maintain. However, I have to admit, I do miss the open space of Montana... things are a little more crowded down here.
