Title: 
Fresh Inspirations: As You Like It

Word Count:
460

Summary:
Ideas to freshen up your home and life.


Keywords:
decorating, gifts, organization.


Article Body:
Copyright 2006 Melissa Galt

Do you have a useless niche, a room without a reason, an available closet? Transform it into a space with a purpose! No, of course, it doesn’t have to fit anyone else’s definition of useful, only yours, but let’s consider some fresh ideas . . .

Conversation Station: Finding yourself constantly on the phone but tired of using a cell phone or an ear piece? What about having a good old retro rotary dial or even just a normal sized cordless but in a designated niche just for calling? You can create a calling corner, as it were, beneath the stairs or even in a closet that isn’t storing useful goods. Consider adding a small desk complete with your choice of desk accessories, and I mean the good stuff. Go find a divine desk blotter, an old fashioned address book, a card holder, and even an inbox and outbox. It is a mini conversation station and a great way to renew the art of correspondence and keeping in touch.

Tis Better To Give and Give Beautifully: Whenever I have a gift to take I am always running about madly searching for the last bit of wrapping paper, tape, and scissors two minutes before I am to be out the door. How much nicer it would be to have a dedicated space stocked with creative wrapping elements and the room to use them. So consider devising your own gift niche. Even when going to a party and taking a bottle of wine, the presentation counts and so does originality and effort. Sure you can use one of those gift bags, but why not dress it up, personalize it with charms, sequins, notes and more all available at the local party supply store. If you regularly attend baby and bridal showers, anniversary celebrations, birthdays, and corporate shindigs, presents with all the trimmings really make a statement.

Zen for Better Balance: I actually know a couple of clients that have meditation rooms on their wish list, and what a great idea! A space of quiet and calm designed solely to wind down and synthesize the pressures of every day into positive energies for every life. It can include a chaise or day bed, or even just long floor cushions, an étagère with space for soothing elements of inspiration including crystals and scented candles. A mirror to witness your transformation, and a source of relaxing sounds or music are essential. Think of this as creating a way station for better balance and re-energizing.

Of course there are other rooms, niches, and nooks you can create; it depends on what you want. So take a good look around - is your house missing the haven you most want? Make it happen!


