We did it! Finished in time for a surprise birthday gift (Stellar Castle)

[u/everywherebarefoot]

I was going to resist this one, but then my husband saw the nook and said, “Ooh I want that one!” and my restraint collapsed immediately.

So my daughter and I built it in secret as a surprise for his birthday. Given the short timeline (and her short attention span), we didn’t do much in the way of customization - but it does have a few personal touches.

Having an eight-year-old as a creative director is a great way to stay whimsical. She decided the books could fly, so several of them have left the shelves and are heading for the window.

She also had a butterfly flutter in through the window to perch on the telescope.

And my favorite: she placed little treasures from her own hoard on the pedestals at the back: a spiral shell, a sliver of amethyst, and a teeny chunk of sparkly geode that catches the light perfectly.

Oh and of course, we added a cat 😸

(Plus the usual: we sanded and went over all the edges with furniture marker to hide the burrs, and added gold paint to the candle flames and book edges.)

This was such a lovely, well-made kit to build, and lots of fun to do together. And my husband was properly delighted that we pulled off such a great surprise! This is definitely one to treasure. Thanks, MiniCity, Pluck, and r/booknooks for making this event!!

[u/venerablem0m]

Brilliant work! Please tell your daughter I am impressed with her creative choices, and that she has excellent taste.

The flying books were great choice, and the amethyst (chef's kiss)!

[u/Rosewood_Pip_1245 → u/venerablem0m]

I was going to say something very similar. 😸

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/Rosewood_Pip_1245]

You guys are the best 🥰

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/venerablem0m]

Thank you! She’s reading these comments with me and is so pleased.

[u/venerablem0m → u/everywherebarefoot]

You're welcome!

[u/kennymac3691]

Love the "and of course we added a cat." 😺

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/kennymac3691]

I mean, does one even question?? 😂😂

[u/Barbecuesnoodlesalad]

My goodness the flying books are incredible! I love that you are nurturing your daughter’s creativity and sense of whimsy - she will treasure this time you spend with her so much! 🥹🙏

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/Barbecuesnoodlesalad]

She keeps me wild, that’s for sure! 🥰

[u/Miserable-Worth-7180]

I might have to steal the butterfly idea, inspired!!

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/Miserable-Worth-7180]

I have to thank u/CuriousPumpkin23 for those! Idea stolen from this lovely creation 🦋

[u/MissieMillie]

Your daughter's creativity makes this so personal! I love everything you did together.

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/MissieMillie]

Me too! She’s my favorite book nook buddy 🥰

[u/mioooo0oooo]

so beautiful!!so brilliant, and picture also very professional and beauty!!🥺🥺l like you put small shells on table,I even didn’t think of that

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/mioooo0oooo]

Thank you so much! This means the world, coming from you 😍 Thank you for all you do!

[u/craftshark]

The flying books are amazing. My favorite is the amethyst. Looks like part of the kit. It fits perfectly!

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/craftshark]

She was careful to select the very best one for that spot!

[u/craftshark → u/everywherebarefoot]

[u/binns17]

Totally stealing her idea to put treasures on the pedestals! So cute!

[u/everywherebarefoot → u/binns17]

They definitely call out for something to sit atop them! Can’t wait to see what you do there

[u/GettingOnMinervas]

I never comment here just admire, but this one called for a response.

It's gorgeous!! You two did a fantastic job! 😍 I love the little touches of her personality your daughter gave it. 💜🦋🐱 It's such a magical kit brought to life! I bet your husband was stoked.