Ready for a Challenge?

Of course, I owe you an explanation.

My life took a few crazy turns.

Ready?

Let's talk.

First of all, I've always prided myself in being a real, imperfect blog.

Life is not always rainbows and sunshine,

but it's your job to enjoy whatever you get dished, right?

My mother is in her home, fully renovated.

I have a new corporate job that eats a lot of my time.

I'm home, and dealing with the neglect that comes with three years

of the Momma being out of commission.

And Sam and I split up.

Amicably.

Relax, we get along fine.

I don't believe in not continuing on as a family.

The biggest change?

The boys joined their sister at FIU!

Yeah...

empty nest.

My autism spectrum sons have their own studio apartments

so they can have solitude and privacy to keep their academic scholarships

in a good state.

So here's the challenge:

Unlike my newlywed real life bloggy buds Jane and Ryan

over at The Borrowed Abode,

which shows you decorating tips for a rental space,

Thom and Samwow have limited options, issues,

and REALLY different styles for two guys who have bunked together

for 20 odd years (seriously odd years).

Samwow is doing his space in black, white, and khaki.

Thom asked for a tropical pallet  of orange, blues, and green.

And here's what we're working with...

 We have a less than stylish shower...

 ...a living room with luxurious furnishings...

 ...a relaxing bathroom...

 ...copious formal dining space...

 ...a newly updated kitchen...

 ...a study with a tranquil atmosphere...

,,,and a bedroom that provides tranquility after a long day.

Is this a bigger challenge than our whole house remodel?

Sweet mother of God no.

But we do have to make this space home.

On a budget.

A TIGHT budget.

Ready?