Well the problem of where to put hats and mitts where it is easily accessible has been solved.

You might remember this baby.  It's the ugly old brown dresser that I bought earlier in the week from a thrift store for $40.  Top drawer is removed and replaced with a shelf and basket to throw stuff into, remaining drawers painted and usable for hats and mitts!!! (among other things).  Pretty enough to leave out in our "Ode to the homeland" room - notice the red, white & blue paint splashed walls behind the dresser lol.