News and Views, decorating and redesign newsletter. Holiday 2007

This is my favorite time of the year. I know, you've heard that before, and you might have said it too. However, As soon as Halloween is over, I'm in a festive mood. Yes, I'm one of those who starts to listen to Christmas music and plan Christmas decorating before Thanksgiving. I'm guilty. But, I'm not alone. What I won't do is get caught up in doing holiday things I don't want to do. That means I shop, decorate, bake, cook only when I want to. This way the joy continues well into the new year. Fortunately for me, I love this season, so, I manage to do a lot! My advice to you is to do as much as you want to do, as little as you want to do, and when you want to do it. If you want to reduce the amount of time you spend on decorating, so be it. Most times, that will be enough. Read more...

The Kitchen Evolution From the SUBLIME to the DIVINE -
by Bonnie Tripi

I remember the days, not so long ago it seems, when kitchens
were just for cooking. Do you remember, as I do, mother preparing meals in a one-sided galley kitchen, no larger than
a breadbox? A dishwasher was only of the human kind. There
was just your standard vented hood, no garbage disposals,
and the refrigerator, oh my. It usually consisted of just one
large bulky door below and a freezer above, from which you
had to chip away the ice that formed, so thick that the space
for food was shrinking by the day. The color choices were almost non-existent and the countertops were mica with a metal edge. Those were the "good old days."
Read more...

Here are a few simple guidelines to follow to convert what could be a decorating nightmare into one of enjoyment:

Have a plan - This is your map which prevents disappointments. You know where you are going and how to get there.

Set a budget - Determine how much you wish to spend and allocate the amount to the most important rooms first, and to other, less important projects, as the budget allows. Read more...

Season's Thoughts
Pumpkin pie, the turkey, berries, wreaths, red and green, gold, silver and glitter. Gift Giving - It's Christmastime!

Remember to check out the directory for the many shopping sources for holiday gift giving, everything for the home, as well as for family and friends.