Wednesday, February 18, 2009

A Spring Inspiration from Scripture

The fresh air and preview of spring gives me a taste of heaven!

I found this piece of scripture to be fitting:

Better is one day in your courts
than a thousand elsewhere;
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
The Lord bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does he withhold
from those whose walk is blameless.

O Lord Almighty,
blessed is the man who trusts in you!
Psalm 84:10-12

Thirsty?
God Bless Your Day!



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Monday, February 9, 2009

Contemporary Trends and a Slow Economy

It's true, just as anything else is: decorating trends are cyclical. But even more interesting is that throughout time, decorating trends tend to reflect the financial stability of the market. Makes sense, right?? These styles are reflected on HGTV... However, even though the styles are simpler, they don't have to look "cheap"!
I actually love the clean and refreshing feel of the contemporary trends.

A few ways we see the trend implemented:
1.Less fabric!...fewer pleats, even blinds replacing window treatments in some cases.
2.Painted cabinets and trim... much more cost effective than new!...but also shows off..
3.Bolder wall color Selections!
4.Furniture: Straight lines rather than intricate carved wood
5. Frame-less Art Work

It is during these slower times that we see and have throughout the years... people getting creative with paint! Not only can proper color selections make a big impact on our environment (work or home) but it doesn't have to make a big dent in the wallet! You can also save money by painting your old cabinets and furniture rather than replacing them! (See older posts)
Consider hiring a professional for these projects... when done properly you will add value to your home!

Here are a couple pics of our freshly painted fitness room with a contemporary style!





As you can see, rather than using expensive plasters and multiple layers; I applied a simple pattern using very little material. This whole room effect, once the base-coat is completed can be accomplished in a matter of a couple of hours!

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ARGH!!!! SPIDER!!!


Okay... I'll warn you now I had to voice my frustration with this creature I found today... but I do plan to post twice today and the second will be much better.
I need confirmation that this is a fiddleback... I'm sure Mike will be good for that... it scared the pants off me... and I attacked!
Although we haven't found one in almost 6 months... we have been told time and time again that we live in the south... and we live in the country so running into these guys is inevitable... doesn't make me feel warm and fuzzy though. Call exterminator is added to today's list of to-do's.

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Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Loneliness, a thought for the day...

It's no secret that moving here at the time we did has resulted in a much more challenging environment to gain traction in the Decorative Art world.. My reaction to that has been to invest the time I have in building and nurturing relationships. A lot of times, I meet with another professional, we discuss in depth the services we provide and how our referrals can compliment eachother. Valuable time spent professionally, and as a bonus some of these relationships have evolved into friendships which I am greatful for!
Since moving here, however, my eyes have been opened to an entire world of hurting people that many of us forget about in the busyness of our day to day. I have encountered so many people who have really no one or very few people in their lives. I come from a huge family and have been blessed with friends that have stayed with me through every stage of my life. Now and then I get to feeling sorry for myself because I am home a lot by myself... and am reminded not to take for granted the wonderful and loving people I do have in my life!
I commit myself to be there for people who need a friend, or an ear. It's simple, we all know someone (often times elderly, but there are lonely and sad people in every age group) who could use a visit or a phone call. Who do you know that needs a visit? Instead of expecting someone else to... pick the phone.
The word of God tells us over and over again that God never leaves our side. Not only is that comforting, but it also helps to keep me accountable. My Uncle Jim once said something very simple and wise... don't do anything you wouldn't do if you knew that Jesus was right there in the room with you... because he is.

Just a couple of thoughts for the day! Have a good one :)

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