Epic Trips: IKEA

Every now and then, I come up with pretty neat ideas. At the end of 2014, I was lamenting how I don’t have enough shopping buddies for my liking, and how it would be SO AWESOME to take a field trip to stores that I love, and to be able to do it with a BUNCH of people at the same time, while still being able to enjoy the store. We had just moved to Nicholes’ Manor, and all I wanted was a trip to IKEA to make my heart happy. Mr. Houseful is a fan, but he doesn’t consider a day spent there as something as awesome as I do. When I told him about my idea of an IKEA field trip, he looked at me, and gave me his blessing. 

Wait – it probably wasn’t as dramatic as that, but he did look a bit relieved not to have to deal with me in the throes of IKEA. 

The day was fun. It was great. I knew that I wanted it to be Epic – and well, my bloggy friend from Suburban Scrawl, Melisa, came up with the ChIkea part, because no matter what, Chicagoans are always going to be proud of their city. Search the #EpicChIkea hashtag on Instagram, and you’re sure to see tons of greatness! 

As for me, I was there looking for all sorts of things. I finally snagged a cart that I’ve wanted for a while now – the Raskog, and the fact that it’s not $29.99 makes the deal that much sweeter. So naturally, I picked up all three colors. I do have something in mind for my beige Raskog later next month, so be on the lookout for that. However, my teal Raskog cart is already getting a warm welcome in my kitchen, and I still have to figure out the way to best display everything stored on it. I’ve found a loving place for my sets of measuring cups, and I love it. The fact that it rolls around the kitchen, and allows me to not have to constantly open drawers and cabinets makes me happy. 

 

I’m still looking for the perfect living room set-up, and sometimes, it’s a bit overwhelming to go without something in mind. Our living room currently has the 5×5 Expedit and a leather sofa/chaise/ottoman set that is too big for the room, but would be perfect in our basement for when we entertain throughout the year. I want a family room that feels warm, yet looks open and bright, especially with our dark hardwood. I’m thinking a grey SOMETHING combo. I’ll figure it out soon. Especially since we’ll be painting BEFORE this month is over! 

 

When you plan these things, you invite people that you’ve “met” online before, and who have the same type of home style as you and just happen to be Ann Marie from White House, Black Shutters too. Yes, I know she’s a blogger. Yes, I know this trip wasn’t JUST about bloggers, but it was about connecting, and I’ve admired her for a LONG time. Plus, she has four children (with another on the way) and I think she “gets” me. 

 

 

There’s a ton more that I can post in regard to IKEA, but I’ll leave you here, because I’m sure to be sharing more about them in the future as I decorate my home. Until then, why not go for a shopping trip today, because it’s the LAST day that you can save 50% on all LED lights in conjunction with donating to the IKEA Foundation. Do it. It will make you feel good. I promise. 

 

This month’s Epic Trip will be to Cost Plus World Market, and I can’t wait! Be sure to follow on Instagram @NatashaNicholes or #EpicWorldMarket