Order Move Slow & Make Things, and enjoy a collection of thoughtful bonus content created just for you!

My Sophomore Year

My experience with True Value started with a contest I felt I might be able to win. I entered a video of my 1940’s bathroom (in which my toddler son waddled in and flushed the toilet) and then your votes helped me win.

(It’s so funny seeing the progression of my hair.  Can you tell I’m someone who likes change?)

I was able to transform my bathroom from this…

…to this…

When True Value asked me to be a part of their DIY Blog Squad last year, it seemed like a very natural thing for me to be involved.

I worked on many projects over the year with the help from the amazing people at Cashman’s True Value Hardware in East Berlin, PA.  The biggest project was painting all of my kitchen cabinets, the walls, and the ceiling in my kitchen and family room.  I also replaced all of the hardware on the doors and drawers.

It was a huge project that took a couple of weeks to complete, but it’s made a big difference in the look of the rooms we spend most of our time in.

 

I was asked to be a part of the True Value DIY Blog Squad for a second year and it was a no-brainer.  I’m really excited to work with such a great company again.

 I wonder what projects I’ll complete this year…

To follow all of the members of the DIY Blog Squad, visit the True Value Facebook page.

I was one of the bloggers selected by True Value to work on the DIY Squad. I have been compensated for my time commitment to the program as well as my writing about my experience. I have also been compensated for the materials needed for my DIY project. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

Marian Parsons 

Paint Enthusiast | Writer | Artist | Designer

you may also like

I’m Marian, a painter, writer, and lover of all things creative. From art and antiques to home projects and everyday life, I share my journey in hopes of inspiring you to embrace your own creativity and make beauty in the spaces you live.

next art sale

August 13th, 2026 at 1pm EST

NEW ONLINE ART COURSE

Paint a Pet Portrait You’ll Love

Learn to paint pet portraits in oils with confidence, even if you’re a beginner. In this new course, Marian will guide you step by step through creating expressive animal portraits filled with color, personality, and your own artistic touch. Join the waitlist to be the first to know when the course opens.

Now Available

Move Slow & Make Things

A book about creativity, intention, and making things with care. Sign up to receive updates, preorder details, and exclusive bonus content.

From the Studio

Artful pieces for your home and everyday life.

From original paintings and art prints to Pup Club releases and curated goods, each piece is created or chosen to bring warmth, creativity, and character into your home.

From the Studio and Home

Shop the Feed

A handpicked collection of items styled and shared throughout posts, projects, and social feeds. Every product is thoughtfully chosen to reflect a timeless, collected aesthetic.

Recent Video

Fall Posts

Explore the Shop

Explore the Blog

Categories

Looking for more encouragement?

Shopping at Lucketts Fall Market 2026

As I shared last week, my plan for the Lucketts Fall Market was to shop Friday morning and then man my space in the afternoon.  As soon as the gates opened and people wanted to purchase prints and paintings, I knew that plan was folly.  I know, as a shopper,

Read More

Join the Waitlist | Pet Portraits in Oils for Beginners

As I’ve shared my pet portraits over the years, the question I’ve been asked most is, “When are you going to teach an online class on pet portraiture?”  I’ve been thinking about it for a while, but I wanted to refine my process and get even more hours at the

Read More
error: Content is protected.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This