When all you have is a measly dime.

Ever wonder about the saying "Decorating on a dime"?

Who came up with that?

We all know what it means and it can't be taken literally.

(10 cents isn't much to work with.)

Nevertheless, it is nice to know that many people are doing it and that high priced

furnishings are not necessarily the way to go, unless money is no object.

I remember my mom recounting a very hard time when all she had was a quarter

to feed five kids.

I think it bought a loaf of bread back then.

Hard to imagine, now, isn't it?

Thrifty.    

Repurposed.    

Reused.    

No wonder these words have been part of my whole life.  

And still are.

The Shabby Chic style embraces the art of decorating on a budget.

True, you can travel the French countryside and buy authentic French antiques,

but your dime isn't going to get you very far.

Or, you can subscribe to French blogs, take in all the eye candy in their beautiful

snapshots of gorgeously arranged antiques and imitate the look yourself.

Today, I did just that!

Through "Decor Steals" I bought an authentic metal olive basket.  I have been admiring them in the blogs I connect with and longed dearly for one.  Mine was a "steal" for only $51.00

I considered it a necessary reward for all the hard work I put in this year at the farmer's markets.

Check it out for yourself...

http://www.decorsteals.com

I don't know what I'll do with it quite yet.

I'm sure it will fit with my French theme.

I may even plant an olive tree and put it to its intended use.

That ol' metal basket made my day.

Exercise your third eye and imagine the possibilities.