The Quest for a Lamp

Yes, I know. You all raced to your computers today, delirious with the expectation of stunning Before and After photos, and here I am disappointing you again. Unfortunately, the office just isn't quite there yet. But it's very close. There are just a few small details left to be finished. But those will come with time. Every day I get a little closer, and yesterday I took a big step in the right direction.

Yesterday, I spent most of my free time in search of a lamp. A floor lamp. With no overhead lighting, the office relies solely on the power of assorted lamps for proper illumination. And I was currently not in possession of anything suitable, both in brightness and style.

I should tell you, my husband was away this past weekend on a ski trip and due to arrive yesterday evening. The office had gone through its weekend transformation entirely without his knowledge, and I was desperate to have it completely finished for his return. So, I only had until 6:00PM to find a lamp and assorted artwork to finish the room and surprise and delight my husband. The most important object being the lamp. If I could just find a lamp, I'd be satisfied.

I don't know if you've ever been on the hunt for a reasonably priced and stylish floor lamp, but it's not easy. I spent most of the day on the internet, perusing the websites of various local stores trying to find the perfect floor lamp. It was not to be found. Finally, I discovered a possibility ot Rona, but I couldn't be sure due to the poor quality of the photo.

After work I hopped in the car and raced to Rona. It wasn't there. When I found an associate and had her look it up on the computer, she immediately cried, "Oh! THAT lamp. Yes, we don't have it anymore because it was always getting returned due to problems with the wiring and the stand. But if you like, I could order you one."

I looked at her for a moment, silently contemplating why she thought I'd still want one, before politely declining and leaving the store. Undetered, I went to Pier 1, Home Outfitters, Canadian Tire and Home Sense before I finally ended up at Urban Barn. I didn't have high hopes. Although they have beautiful lamps, they're always way too expensive. ($350 for a floor lamp? No thanks. Knock off $200 and then we'll talk). But low and behold, I found it. Sylish and a modest $140. And to top it off, they had it in stock.

So, I returned home with a new floor lamp and a few decorative accessories I'd found along the way, with just enough time to set it up and surprise my husband. But it is done? Not quite yet. Stay tuned, faithful viewers. Stay tuned.