Decorating in Denial: a Boy’s Room Makeover
So, it’s absolutely true that time flies. My son, Grant, was only 12 when I started this blog. I’ve shared with you his 13th Birthday Amazing Race Party from way back when, his Super 16 Superhero party, all the way up to his recent Graduation Party and more. Some of you have been here so long you were around when I made over his room in the Vintage Academia Sports theme. Remember how that turned out?
Well, the day I’ve been dreading for so long has finally come and he’s actually leaving for college. (Seriously, is this really happening?) And I’ve decided to deal with it by making over his room again. I’ve also done the college dorm decorating stint and come just short of ruining his life by making it look like it was PB Teen-perfect. I had to stop somewhere.
But, yes, I’ve also just put the finishing touches on his room at home…
We kept several elements of the room from before, but we did exchange the twin beds Santa brought when he was 5 years old for our old queen bed from the storage room. Along with that came a new mattress and bedding. I found a super deal on the duvet set here on Amazon. (It comes in a ton of colors and it’s super-soft!) And the sheets are these from PB Teen. The striped throw is from Crate and Barrel, but unfortunately no longer available. The striped pillow covers are from Hobby Lobby, and the City Skyline pillow tutorial is the one I posted here!
The bookshelves are the Threshold Carson style in Midtone Cherry we found here at Target. They turned out to be a great match with the bed and they’re perfect for holding all his books and collectibles.
The gallery wall wood and metal shelf was a recent find from Hobby Lobby, as were a few other items on the wall.
And the USA chalkboard we made 5 years ago is still in its place over his desk. Click here to see that original tutorial and download the pattern!
Okay. So there it is. And, yes, there may be a little bit of denial going on here, but it’s how this mom is dealing with a first child leaving home. Decorating is my love language. And I love this kid very much.
I’ll will make it. I will. Who else is in my shoes right now and how are youcoping?
Denise Greenwood
September 3, 2015 @ 12:10 pm
Just sent my oldest son off for his second year of college. 🙁 He won't be home until Thanksgiving. I so know what you're feeling. Even though this is the second year it's still hard. Today I am coping by going to bible study and then coffee with friends. Distractions and people help a lot! And yes, you will make it!! Blessings and prayers for you and your boy!
Julie
September 4, 2015 @ 11:51 am
Thank you! Blessings & prayers for you, too!
marty (A Stroll Thru Life)
September 3, 2015 @ 12:25 pm
Letting them fly is the hardest thing on earth. Hang in there.
Jordyn Brown
September 3, 2015 @ 5:55 pm
I love the gallery wall, he'll absolutely want to come home to see that room…and you 😉
xoxo, SS
The Southern Stylista
Genny
September 4, 2015 @ 7:25 pm
Our youngest of three girls is a Senior in college! I know how you feel. Sorry to say that it doesn't get any easier. But — you are in good company and this is exactly what we want for our children!
I Spy Chai With My Little Eye
September 7, 2015 @ 12:51 pm
"…decorating is my love language" YES YES YES! Mine too. I just completely remodeled both my daughter's room and my boy's room and I put every single ounce of love into that work. It was a pleasure for me and the joy that they feel upon entering their new spaces shot right through to my own heart. Decorating is a gift from God and surely a blessing as well. I can only imagine how you're feeling with your oldest off to college. I'm not looking forward to that day in my own life. XOXO You are an encouragement!
Tara Lehman
September 8, 2015 @ 12:27 am
His room looks great Julie! My oldest is 12 I can't even imagine what it will look like when he goes away to college! I will probably be decorating just like you:). I hope you have a great week, take care, Tara