Americana to Africana

When we returned from Africa last summer we had in tow some souvenirs that we had bartered for in the shops (actually, Roxanne did most of the bartering for us!). We bought a beautiful stick (or cane) carved out of ebony wood from some Masai indians. We also found a carved "karibu" sign, carved wooden combs, and a painting of a Masai woman. We collected some beautiful shells from beaches, and received a cute "Babu na Bibi" sign and woven basket as welcome gifts from Jason and Roxanne. When we tried to figure out the best place to display these items in our home, we realized that we didn't really have any available wall space left! The perfect solution - we would redecorate our downstairs guest room - transform it from its existing Americana decor into a new "Africa" room. So I made one more purchase - African fabric so that I could make "authentic" curtains and bedspread.

After arriving home in August things got very busy. There was yard work to be done; I started working again when school started, Jason and Roxanne came to stay for a month in November, and then the holidays were upon us. So no time for a redecorating project. Then for Christmas both Jim and I received more wonderful African memorabilia from Jason and Roxi. So when they went back to the Chicago area after the holidays, we decided to get busy and get the room done before their next visit in February. We wanted them to see it before they head back to Africa. We are very pleased with the results! Check out the before and after pictures for yourselves! The only thing we still need is a mosquito net!

Before and After: