As 2009 draws to a close, we turn our attention away to the New Year, as we have many hopes for better times, whether it’s health, happiness, success or whatever our wishes may be. At each year’s change, we witness the symbolism of this time passing, in that of an elderly man, named, “Father Time”, who passes on the charge of the upcoming year to “Baby New Year”.
While we anticipate new and innovative changes, let us honor the wisdom and knowledge received, in the year we are about to leave. Just like any new baby, a life yet to be lived can be joyous in the discovery; however, we can also prevent some of life’s bumps and bruises, based on lessons learned from previous experiences.
Thank you, Father Time, for helping us to find our way.
Wishing you much cheer in the New Year, each and every day! Wanda
Modern Minimalist House Design and Unique Architecture. Examples Of Minimalist Home Designs
I do love the Christmas holidays and all of the trimmings. I also love that feeling when all of the “extras” have been put away and I can begin the New Year with a sense of calm because I’m not spending double-time trying to put my hands on things or where I feel as if I’m going to stump my toe on a misplaced object. During my holiday break, I’m tackling my office, first. It always seems to be the natural place to start as I work on my year-end paperwork. (Sigh!)
Start the organization process in one drawer. One small space can make a huge difference in your feeling of accomplishment!
If you have ongoing projects, a linen board, a magnetic board or a corkboard keeps things in site for inspiration but the desktop clear. This one is from Pottery Barn.
Sometimes a den needs to go to double-duty as a home office. A simple base cabinet with added doors provides for both. (And baskets allow for easy access for carrying items to your desk top.)*
I’ve used this file drawer trick for a client in her “Mom’s” office. We utilized space, under a window, and between two bookcases.*
Even though I’m an interior designer and my business isn’t focused specifically as an organization firm, I do seem to wear many hats and I can tell when someone’s life is out of balance and when they need to create better spaces and functions, within their homes. One of the first things I do, before addressing any area with an interior design application, is to take an “inventory” of the space and find out why it’s not meeting the client’s needs. Space planning is part of the organization process, as well as making cohesive design decisions. Aside from “making a home pretty”, I need to lessen the potential for chaos and clutter to allow for a healthy lifestyle.
During the month of January, I’ll share some ideas for achieving this goal, if' it’s on your New Year’s checklist. If you could use some “design and organization coaching” to get you heading in the right direction, I would be happy to schedule a consultation visit. After all, don’t you deserve a great beginning?
New Year’s Cheers to You! ~ Wanda
*These photos were the courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens.
Grand Minimalist House Design
I hope your stockings were filled with love and may the merriment of the season continue for you, not only today, but for many more to come!
I’ll be back at my “workshop” in the New Year. Until then . . .
Christmas Cheers to You! Wanda
After all of the hoopla from the weatherman, my area of NC only saw the liquid version of precipitation. (And I say this with the utmost empathy and respect for my friends, in northern parts, who experienced blizzard conditions.) I just can’t help it - there is something about a little dusting of the crystalline white stuff which sends my heart aflutter at the holidays.
You can imagine, then, when I trekked a little further up I-77, to one of my favorite shopping spots and witnessed this vision as I walked to the front porch . . . . well, be still my heart . . . a snow sighting!!!
A photo taken outside of Farmhouse Gardeners, located in Statesville, NC. They are really worth the visit - not only for garden items, but they have a lovely shop full of interior accents, antiques & gifts. Fabulous customer care & my purchases were wrapped for me!
A friendly snowman even greeted my husband and me with open arms!
This was one of those last minute side trips. I had to deliver some pillows and florals to a client, at Lake Norman, while we were also heading to visit with my husband’s family, in the same area. As we got a little closer, I mentioned making the “loop” to this favorite shop. Off we went, with our dachshunds in tow, presents packed up, and in a red Ford Explorer. The furry bell collars, which our boys were tolerating so nicely, jingled in unison whenever we hit a bump in the road. While I shopped for a few extra gifts, (and in peaceful surroundings, minus the mall madness), I enjoyed being in the present . . . a true gift to my husband and myself.
As we get closer to the New Year, I’m sure my topics will veer back to the world of interior design. For now, I’m giving myself the gift of enjoying these moments and I hope, in some way, they will be a gift to you.
Merry Christmas to everyone and thank you for sharing your visits with me! Wanda
Example Sketch Earth Sheltered Home DesignsIn a previous post, I shared with you my love for Surcies, and so many of you enjoyed learning about this whimsical phrase for “an unexpected surprise”. In fact, a few of you shared fun factoids about the origin of the word. There is a thought it came from the French - “un souci” – to worry or to care. In other words, like the old Hallmark commercial, “You care enough to send the very best”. Toss in a little southern accent, from the South Carolina low country, and you’ve got a phrase to share, along with a charmin’ anecdote!
As promised, I’m going to share a few more Surcies before the challenge of time has me off and running in further preparation for family Christmas visits. I’ve got a few more of my own gifts to gather and wrap!
Even if the weather outside is frightful, these rain boots from Dylan’s Candy Bar, NYC, would make you want to tromp through rain, sleet and snow!
Are you thinking, “How on earth could ice cream be a Surcie wish list item?” Take a closer look, it’s really a sugar scrub with extra goodies to soften tired winter skin. Also from Dylan’s Candy Bar, NYC.
For the sophisticate in your life - From Etsy – JaLasChic – Pearly Petal Earrings. (You won’t believe the price!) Last day to order is the December 18th for Christmas delivery!
For the members of your coffee club – this ornament from Sur La Table would be the perfect exchange for a cup of espresso.
Even if the recipient of these measuring spoons isn’t a a huge fan of baking, they’ll be tempted to pull these out and channel their inner kitchen goddess. Anthropologie
My favorite present of all? True quality time with family and friends . . . all wrapped up in a big hug!
Sending special Surcie wishes your way! - Wanda
