Oh yes! A new year is here, a new approach to the way we do things. It’s time to clean out the clutter, scrub the turkey drippings from the back of the stove, deep clean the rugs, and pack away the holiday decorations. There’s something downright exhilarating about starting a new year fresh. It’s like…newly sharpened pencils in the Fall! I realize for some there is a sadness at this time of year. You may be thinking, “Darn it, the holidays are over, I’m 6 lbs heavier, it’s freezing outside…what can I look forward to? Not to mention, my skin is pastier than the Mexican Wedding Cakes I chowed on all through Christmas!!!??”
I promise you if you dig a bit deeper than than the morning newspaper, you’ll find that sense of adventure that this new year deserves! I receive many requests this time of year to help people ‘shape up their spaces.’ It doesn’t take much. In fact, it requires taking away, not adding. If you want your home to look fresh, considered, and exciting, then you have to adopt a new mentality.
1) Pack away ALL the holiday decor. Down to the candy cane magnets on the fridge. However, don’t just throw it back in the boxes! Wipe it down. Vacuum off the garland, bag up the pine cone potpourri, and consider how excited you’ll feel come next year when it’s time to bring those items out again and they’ve been cleaned and wrapped up in the way the deserve!
2) Spring cleaning isn’t just for Springtime. I just finished deep cleaning my house. I dusted every surface, vacuuming under the furniture, and even conditioned the leather sofas that saw quite the beating over the holidays. I dusted the blinds, vacuumed up the cobwebs, and even wiped out all of my cupboards with Pine sol. Guess how many bag of trash I took out from this whole ordeal? Seven full-size trash bags! Ahhh…I’m ready for whatever 2010 brings.
3) For your decor, freshen everything up by swapping it out with something else. Just change it’s location and you can appreciate it in a whole new light. Try adding a new splash of color to your spaces. If you want to purchase new items, you can do this in the form of pillows, candles, picture frames, and rugs. My favorite stores for inexpensive decor are: Marshalls, Ross, Homegoods, Kirklands, and Hobby Lobby. I realize this may vary by your location. However, if you have them in your area have a look. You’ll save 50 – 70% from other stores.
4) Take the time. As a designer, my schedule is very busy. So is yours. If I can find time after a long day of decorating everyone else’s spaces to spruce up my own, then you can too! It may take a few days to accomplish everything but if you make a list and set aside some time each day, your house is going to shine…and your spirit will follow. You’ll feel rejuvenated, de-cluttered, and excited to tackle 2010…7 bags lighter!
