What Are Your Challenges and How Are You Meeting Them?

“Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michaelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.” 

Do you think the people mentioned above dealt with challenges in their life? You bet they did. I don’t even have to know them. Just read about them, and how they achieved almost unreachable heights of success and fame.

As I write about challenges, I fully submit and admit that my challenges can be unlimited. When faced with challenges, I used to really fret over what was to happen or not happen. No, more than fret, just worried, worried, worried…often anticipating the worse. It was a common practice in my life that got me nowhere….fast.  This behavior was in the past. You see, I’m a believer and know there is someone higher than me to help with my worries and challenges. It wasn’t long before I realized that a certain peacefulness had come upon me, and even as the habit of worry still tried to overcome my new thinking, I refused to submit any longer.

As I write this blog, I know I’m not alone. People worry about taking up a challenge, often, because of the level of work necessary to put into reducing or eliminating the challenges in their life. A challenge often is a good thing, so don’t think of it as something that’s always negative. It may cause you to move forward in something that is beneficial to your success in life. What are you doing to meet your challenges head on, or are you waiting to see if  ’they will just go away or work out on their own’?

I’m certain there are many types of challenges people go through from time to time. The question is when…not what? How will you deal?  Will you get frustrated, angry or give up? Take your issues and state it loud and clear, so you will definitely hear the words. Then, refuse to worry about it, rather seeking other ways to help you through it.

Stop for a minute (or two) and think of some of the challenges you face daily.  Are they small, easily taken care of, or big, scary and seem to go on forever? Here are some challenges I’ve heard others speak of:

•  Personal Life Challenges
• Personal financial challenges
• Personal business challenges
• Personal Family challenges
• Personal Friend challenges
• Personal changes necessary to make to your lifestyle better, which will mean a change of thinking. Nothing is insurmountable. Turn negative challenges into positive ones.

The next challenge is to think of something that you could work through, and see it as a positive challenge for growth.

Why did I write this blog?  Simply, because we are all faced with something each day.  My challenge today was to come up with a blog topic that I felt would be helpful to someone else.  If  the challenge is a negative experience, then don’t dwell in it. Be determined to face it, deal with it and make it something very positive. Once accomplished, your new challenge is to share this blog with someone else who  is dealing with a challenge. You know there is always a positive to a negative and this bears true in the challenges you face every day.

I would like to challenge you to check out http://www.accentuatehomestyling.com . This website will offer you a challenge in your DIY home projects. It’s online for your benefit, and you will receive help and reassurance in your project(s), plus a few new ideas you hadn’t thought of.

Happy Challenges today and many days to follow. Contact us at the website above or through FB at: http://facebook.com/accentuatehome.rla

DIY (DO IT YOURSELF)….AND WILL YOU HELP… PLEASE?

I was watching my granddaughters play and one said to the other…”I can do it myself and will you help me please”, all in the same breath. I found it sweet and funny at the same time. It’s an oxymoron to say “I can do it myself  and will  you help me.” Even through the humor, it made me think about how many times we find ourselves in some type of dilemma where we may need  help and never ask for it. 

This blog is about getting the most out of the home improvements projects you have in mind. What are your plans for your project? What is your budget, do you know where to acquire items for your project that are able to take you to a different level in re-decorating and re-defining space in your home? I really like to emphasize to clients to create with the idea of  ‘stepping outside of the box’. It’s the only way to capture full creativity of the project and be able to answer…… Just what do I want to do with this room?

We need help with our DIY project, and we can do it by ourselves (see tree in back).

Mural for comfort

After completion minus mural.

DIY projects are to be fun, not exhausting and go on forever. Once started, the excitement builds to see the project through fruition. However, for some, it may well turn into a nightmare; it may end up not being anything you had in mind. Often times,  we get absorbed in the great looking room(s) seen in magazines, on television and admire what other people have done with their space. That’s great, because we sometimes need a creative push to start the ideas coming. Decorate based on who you are,what gets your creativity flowing and comments from those who will be using the space as well. Otherwise, disenchantment may come quickly. Think if it’s something you’ll be happy with 6 months down the road, or if it’s really your style? You will discover your personal style as you expand your  thinking, explore being outside of the box, and combine objects you’ve seen with your own ideas.

With the DIY process we are available to come into your space without actually being there. We offer you suggestions in all phases of decorating your space.. We’ll even help you find some unusual products for your project that fit your personality and want to ‘step outside of your comfort box’.  We can  acquire great ideas and insight from hearing and reading the opinions of others who have arrived to a degree (we should always challenge ourselves to think bigger and to  recognize challenges and rewards) as we continually learn and grow. Even designers/decorators talk their ideas through with other professionals about a project, so as we maximize the result.

What are some of the snags you may run into doing your redecorating projects? Why not let us know? This way, you’ll be helping others.  If you have to knock down walls to expand a room, or put up a wall, move a window, we do not do that at all. We work with balancing the room and taking you outside your comfort level for a room that is greater and grander than your expectations.

For all of our DIY fans, we can help you from far away, and it will be just like we are sitting beside you discussing your project. We have links below for our E-decorating that explains this process with the rooms listed. Check it out on the website http://www.accentuatehomestyling.com  or on http://www.facebook.con/accentuatehome.rla . We come to you no matter where you live. We offer you full consultations. It’s all virtual.

How do you feel about color? Would you prefer to dedicate most of the color palate to the walls, etc. or would you prefer to use it in your furnishings and accessories? Color is magnificent. It is so uplifting, and if used correctly, you may combine two varying colors to work in the room or a single space. Fabulous, if placed right. White is a great non-color to compliment the brighter, more invigorating colors used in your project. Not only using colors on the wall, but you can bring one/some (depending on pattern) into your accessories. Put your imagination to task. I know you will come up with some great ideas, and remember, we’re always here to help. Check out a room that needs a change. Try a wall mural of something special and meaningful to you. Murals are great in any room. We will work to take you outside of your safety box and try something different for your space.  Lay your ideas out and contact us to shore up your project. We’ll make suggestions that will possibly save you money, find product(s) at reduced or wholesale prices (when available) and that which you may not always we able to meet for yourself. We will confer with you on all levels.

What room have you been putting off, because you’re not sure what to do, scared to start that you may mess up, or just cannot imagine the room any other way then what it presently is. Some people have rooms that become wasted space. They may use a room has a catch-all, but continue to pay for heat and air conditioning. Why not take time to focus on what that room could be used for. A t.v. room, reading room, a room for the children to play in or exercise room. It’s up to you. Turn on your creativity button and get started. I would really like to hear from you, as well as hear about your projects. It’s always fun to see how people’s imagination starts to flow once they start being creative. Please don’t forget, we want to help you. Don’t feel like you are alone in this process.

E-DECORATING: WHY IT’S GOOD FOR YOU!

 Why change is worthwhile …..and …. it is good for your health

Yes, change is good ….in fact, it’s great! Why? Our change is  based on the simplification of  using us as your personal interior decorator/designer. There is the convenience of being able to communicate day or night in various  communicative forms.

Most important is YOU! It’s about your ideas for change in your home and how these changes may be implemented.

Where does Accentuate’s E-Decorating come in? We are your personal ONLNE INTERIOR DECORATOR/DESIGNER. We offer the convenience of using Skype, email, text, phone (actually talking) and fax, and all this for a flat fee. Just check out the website or facebook E-Decorating store to pick your project and read more about the use of our Accentuate E-Decorating.

What is your normal process when redecorating?  Usually, and possibly… it’s do- it- yourself, or with the help of a friend, magazines, and online websites that sell products for the home. All that is great, but it is even nicer to have the best of both worlds. This includes you and  Accentuate, as your professionals who’ll work with you to set your consultation in progress and in collaboration  with you regarding the ideas for your space. It is like having your very own, personal consultant right there, and at a lesser cost factor. We look forward to working with you, taking you outside of your comfort zone and letting you experience the job  of E-decorating with Accentuate Home Styling & Consulting.  We love to help our homeowner-clients to expound upon their creativity and encourage you to think outside-of-the box, utlilizing an idea you’ve never thought about using before.

What do you think about color on your walls, or do you prefer  your using decor to be the main or identifying color in for your room(s)? Will you plan to utilize items you already have in your home? Change can be made just by utilizing items from other rooms, or things hidden out of sight that work perfectly once again within the space. Often people don’t think to do this. On the other hand, people can become over-indulgent in keeping ‘stuff’ that turns into clutter. Often time the removal of clutter is the first step in starting to remake a room. I love the excitement that my client’s have once their project is complete or they can see the beginning of the change. It really is a great feeling for me, due to the fact they are often reluctant to try something new, but very happy once they’ve given the thumbs up and see the fantastic results.

Through virtual decorating, we will communicate per all outlets mentioned above. We will consult with you once we received particular items from you through email, etc. We also take all major credit cards and offer flat rate prices. No better deal and no better way, no matter where you live. This is the beauty of being able to do it through E-Decorating, and you will have all you will need to begin your project whenever you desire. You will even know where to go and find products, etc. This service is meant to save you money, time and effort. Begin today by contacting us.

How to get started today.

What do you need to do to get started? You need to check out our E-decorating options on our website (http://www.accentuatehomestyling.com) or on Facebook.com at (http://www.facebook.com/accentuatehome.rla) . It’s a flat-rate cost per room and it is a way to feel reassured of your decisions.

It’s unbelievable how the world has/is changing. There isn’t anything you cannot accomplish online (for your convenience). Decorating has now arrived in the form of E-Decorating for your total convenience. It’s definitely cost effective. No one has to sit in your home for a couple of hours consulting with you, unless this is what you desire.  We are happy under any circumstances to visit/meet personally with you as long as you are within our area, if this is what you would prefer. We are always interested in hearing your approach, assisting you and encourage you to envision a space where new ideas have been developed and waiting to be born.

 

How different will 2012 be for you?

Sad, but true that 2011 is a year that many people would rather erase from their memories and experiences. Some have lost jobs, while others have lost their home as well. It’s a sad state of affairs, and I pray that 2012 will be a big upturn for all who have felt beaten down. There are some better days coming. You are going to do lots of things, including redecorating space in your home or office. Was that not in the plan?  I want to place the idea out there for your 2012. Think about it. How about a particular room(s) representing ’fabulous’ with lots of  POP under a controlled budget? You have one, right? No, you say! Continue to read on.

In my business I consult, meet and talk with people, probably alot like yourself about the beginnings and end to decorating and the application. It is my desire to work closely with my client(s) for complete understanding and expectations. I want to teach them about the art of thinking outside of their comfort zone while sharing ideas that will bring excitement in the decorating process. We entertain various levels of decorating. Everyone deserves a great place to relax and come home to. Even if one cannot go all out, there is something small that will  make a difference in any room. It’s a matter of expectation and thinking outside the box. Once your spirits are lifted and your imagination starts to peak, you get truly involved in the project. You’re ready to take on a responsiblity of what will equate to change, and it is your beginning of something new. Use this same thought and feeling to lift the spirit of someone else. People watch one another, and if they see you approaching an unfortunate time in a positive manner, it could have a great effect on them as well. This is part of what I offer my clients. I want to make you (the client) feel the excitement and joy that comes  from being involved in this type of project. There is a rainbow ahead. You and I will open our creative minds to come up with ideas that will not only affect how the room looks in the end, but provide you a learning lesson of new ways to expand your thinking. The progress you make will encourage you to share with someone else. Decorating is so much fun, but there is so much more you’re learning. It’s lessons about life. It’s about using  your mind  and growing it every day to uncover yourself in this decorating process.

I love different. Working with colors, shapes and sizes of decor and furnishings lead to many fascinating and decorative  ideas. Sometimes it happens in the middle of the night. You’ll get a grand idea for a space. Write it down, otherwise you’ll not remember by morning. It is about thinking in broader terms of what you will achieve, not what you might achieve. It about expectations  of self. I will do that as I work with you and the space in your home.

Please do not short change yourself by not using the creativity within you. You are blessed with it. Everyone has some level of creativity; some broader than others. It’s one of the many gifts we are born with. Use it or lose it. The more I use my creativity, the better I see things in my minds-eye. It’s truly exciting to see what I come up with.

I encourage you to consider  using our DIY process (on website and FB business page). The information I present to you is sharing, and I would like you to share with me some of your decorating ideas as well.  (http://www.accentuatehomestyling.com) and (http://www.facebook.com/accentuatehome.rla)

This blog has taken me awhile to put together. I wasn’t sure how I could marry the ideas of decorating and sharing thoughts together, but I believe it’s one you clearly understand. You will hopefully begin to get a picture of yourself while receiving and asking for help.Brighten up someone else’s day.

TAKE A MOMENT (OR TWO) FOR YOURSELF

*Check with Accentuate for information re: the above model or other models,

• Model Size (in)      59x59x89
• Material ABS
• Two persons
• Glass thickness (mm)     6 mm
• Front step
• Two seats
• Two pillows
• Overhead rain shower
• Sliding hand shower
• Steam generator
• Alarm
• Cold and hot water controls
• Soap and shampoo dispenser
• Massage tub
• Back Massage
• Foot massage
• LED lighting Ceiling, and background
• LCD computer control panel
• Remote Control
• LED lighting Ceiling, and background
• Mirror and towel rack
• Ozone unit
• Ventilation fan
• FM Radio with CD input capability
• Telephone with loud speaker
• Ergonomically designed
• Flexible drain pipe
• Steel frame tub support

bathtub for two

Material Acrylic Massage tub for 2 persons 120 volt SS in line water heater Hand held shower head and hose Air pump and air jets Microcomputer LCD control panel Shortage of water protection Removable Pillow FM..

You’ve arrived home, kicked off your shoes, taken off whatever denotes work attire and ready to slip into something comfortable. It’s time for relaxation! Part of your relaxation is to eat a wholesome dinner, take a long, long, long bath or shower after your daily exercise (maybe you did that during lunchtime). How about a little steam to pull all of those toxins out of your body (called stress for the purpose of this blog), and just relax. Can you picture yourself doing this? I’ve often wished I had a sauna I could go and hide out in from time to time, but I would need a special room just for that. It’s not an affordable item for me, or for many people I know. However, these bathtubs and steam cabinets are for your bathroom, and can replace the tub or shower you now have. Have you been thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Why not think about what it would be like to come home to this type of treatment? You richly deserve it.

The definition of relaxation is to us, stress-free, calmness and peacefulness. You get it yet? Do you feel that way as you read this blog? Relaxation is important in our lives. It means that we won’t age as quickly, perhaps not get sick or worn down as often as we do or stress out so much. It means thinking straight, not worrying about everything and everybody. It doesn’t mean throw caution to the wind or have no care in the world. It means to take whatever you’ve dealt with during the course of a day, and come home to the safety of your home, where you can spend a little time with your massage bathtub or steam shower combo.  Isn’t that a great thought? Even saying it makes you feel better. While visiting this great store, I really began to note just how much stress we all take in during the day. Hence, this blog came to mind. Just being around the equipment makes you realize how peaceful life could be; how you can get into your bathtub or shower combo and let the cares of the world melt away.

I visited Bathtub and Shower Store today. It was so much fun being there. It certainly makes you wish you had space, funds and time to buy a tub and a steam shower combo. I can only imagine. The quiet and sanctity of such a place to hide-out is like a Peace of Heaven. It’s a way of taking the most quiet time to be thankful for your day, and most of all being able to spend your time in such a calming place. If you’ve thought about redoing your bath, why not think about putting a steam shower combo and/or a massage bathtub in your home? We can help you figure out what works for you. Contact us today and tell us you’re interested in knowing more. We’re here to help you, and possibly negotiate a discount for you.

Come on…get your relaxation on…contact us. You won’t be sorry once you are in that tub and/or shower.

What is your daily relaxation method? If you don’t have something you can do to take away the strains of the day, will you please take time and think about what would work for you?

Thanks, and now I’m off to my steam shower for an hour or so (sic). Only kidding and wishing, but I must confess to you and say …..”it isn’t so.”

STRETCHING YOUR INCREDIBLE.. DECORATING.. SELF!

Given the opportunity ….

to grow, learn and stretch your incredible..decorating.. self, would you take it?

Once you’ve decided to begin a new project, whether it’s a do-it-yourself project or you’re hiring an interior design/decorating company (i.e. Accentuate), please remember that being open and motivated to learn something new is worthwhile and part of the process.  Before starting, you must have a plan of start and finish. As much fun as it is, there is  a serious side in reaching your goal(s).  Everything you forgot to write will become clear as you go along, however, try to make your list in an orderly fashion. This will eliminate going backwards and wasting time. Here are some suggestions to start your list. 

1. What is your project going to cost? You may not know this at the outset. Find a comfortable figure, increase or decrease it as you plan the design of your room, furniture, decor and accessories. This is so important in your planning stages.
2. Create a strong picture (whatever presents you with clarity re: your project) so you will always be moving forward with not too many setbacks.
3. Plan to reach your goals within the project (one part at a time). Don’t start 5 things at once.
4. Work your plan-plan your work!
5. Understand what is important to you and the family as to meeting everyone’s needs,  and after the remake, will the space be adequate.
6. Continue to stretch your imagination about changes.
7. Make definitive choices – don’t keep changing your mind.
8. Don’t be afraid to call on a professional (if you find it hard to get started or time is not working for you). You may need someone to help you stay on track, save you money in the long run and keep you from spending lots of time looking for items to decorate, etc.  You may want someone to do part of the project and you do the rest.  It is far less expensive to ask then do-it-yourself and have your costs go sky-high.
9. Your Plan is super important, even when you’re having a professional consultation. If you can explain and share your ideas and preferences for the project, the professional will be able to let you know if your plan needs anything else, is on the right path or  (she or he) may have some other ideas. Your  project will be so much fun and some really cool things will come out of  the blending of  ideas.
10. Communication is essential. Write everything down. You should write your own ideas down of any decisions made or conversations you have about this project. This goes for anyone you hire as well. Then, there is less chance of any miscommunication happening and the project stays on course.
11. If you decide to work with a professional interior design/decorating company, meet on a cordial basis first  to know if you will be able to work together.  It’s difficult to work with someone when there isn’t a connection.  Secure a time when both parties may come together to discuss your project in more detail.
12. Time is money. If you’re doing your own project would you hire yourself and for how much? If you’re actually hiring someone to help you, etc., remember their time is very valuable. Have all your ducks in a row, respect each other’s time, and both parties should  keep a record of discussions and decisions. This is to avoid any  disagreements. Just be excited and be willing to try something different. Doing the same thing the same way (all the time) results in the same outcome. Open communication is crucial.

Being organized is essential and one of the first things in your plan. Usually any room that is being redone, revamped, redecorated, etc. must be  decluttered and cleaned out.

For example: you’ve decided to redecorate a specific room in your home. Is it prudent to start not knowing exactly what you want to  do? Is there clutter to get ride of, or will you be able to offer  some items that are in good condition to someone else who doesn’t have as much as you? Everyone feels better when their home looks comfortable, cheery and welcoming. In the middle of starting your project, are you moving things around from one side to another, or have you done your job at decluttering …..first. Give yourself some props if you’ve taken the time to do that. Now, your room is prepped and the fun is about to start. Decluttering is very important . Cross off those things that will help you complete your project through this phase. Think about stretching your incredible….decorating..self…. before beginning.

These very things are the same things I talk with my clients about. I am quick to compliment them on their ideas, and I’m honest in all dealings. I love to see the excitement of clients as they express their ideas about the revamping of space, decor and accessories. It’s really fun and exciting for both client and professional.

In our next blog, we will talk a little about the decluttering phase of any room. However, we’ll focus on a special room that is common when redecorating any space. Stay tune.

In the meantime, please make me proud by…Stretching Your Incredible..Decorating..Self! I love to hear from you. Please comment to this blog. It is to make your life easier, less taxing and stressful. We can all use that. Happy Decorating.

This will give you a great start. We will have a series of topics covering:  STRETCHING YOUR INCREDIBLE..DECORATING..SELF!

INSIDE…SITTING PRETTY ( Plan to create what you dream, and allow your dream to be the bearer of what you planned.)

Hello there, while you’re enjoying the summer being outdoors in the pool, barbecuing, playing games and generally having fun, you’re reminded that it’s a great time to spruce up both the interior and exterior of your home (especially before the cool/cold weather comes). Where should you start?

Define your space.

Dedicate  your space with warm inviting colors, tones, decor and accessories.  Add a new twist to your decorating skills.

Decorate using all of  your imagination and abilities  while creating a space that represents who you are.

While you’re trying to stay cool during this 100 degree temperature or something close to it, try relaxing and enjoy the surroundings inside your home. The market has fabulous colors to use in the summer months and some that can go into the Fall season. Colors like yellows, rose/pinks, turquoise, lime or light greens and variations of reds, blues and other fantastic summer colors await your discovery. You are probably aware of how painting a room can make a big difference. You may consider having one piece of furniture (a major piece) upholstered, using some fabulous color fabrics, add throw rugs, if you want,  on your floor. I’m a proponent of  painting color on walls. If you decide to use a color or two to paint a room do it with care. You do not want the room(s) to become too busy. There are so many great ways to tie colors together (even when the room has its own color).  If you’re not sure, caution on the side of subtlety. However, do not be afraid of color. It is so great to set your mood. If you’re sad, using  color will make you feel uplifted. If you’re tired, bright, cheery colors will offer you energy. It gives you whatever you need at a particular time. Some people are afraid to use color. Don’t be afraid. Try it in one spot of the room where it will be seen by others and get their reactions. Your world is in color and, I hope, you not uneasy about that.

Decorating is fun and encompasses your thoughts and purpose. Ask yourself questions like…  why (do you want to decorate a specific area)?  what (do you plan to change)?  how (will you go about it)?  when (will the project begin and end)? Ask and answer these questions to the best of your ability. If you feel this process is a bit overwhelming, then ask for help.  Accentuate Home Styling and Consulting will add another service very soon. We will help you in decorating your space, thereby providing you with samples and information necessary to complete your project ……yourself.  Watch for our long distance service offered by Accentuate E-Consulting for Decorating  via computer. Details will come soon, and we will be able to help you where you want assistance. You will decorate with confidence using us as your assistant. We will present this added service on our website (http://www.accentuatehomestyling.com) and on http://www.Facebook.com/accentuatehome.rla  in the near future. Watch the websites for the announcement of its beginning.

If you done your homework and you’re ready to go, start your planning process. In the last blog, I wrote about an inexpensive way to create your own wall art. This is available to you through personal designs, pictures of people, places and things you find have an artistic quality to them. What you see as art for any space is only limited by your thoughts. Everything has some type of artistic value (I believe). Use your imagination. Check out the magazines, look in the stores and be aware of what surrounds you. There is always something that can become a piece of art. Take photos of sunsets, beautiful scenes, some special event and anything that your eye connects with to create your art.  Pick items you like and will add substance to your room. Once you have made your decisions re: execution of your plan, your on your way. Be excited and look forward to displaying your ideas and handiwork to others. If you’re not excited, then you cannot expect anyone else to show excitement.

We love colors. So, I’m sharing a combination of colors I use to begin my creative thinking. These are some of my favorite colors, and I have more. I love a room that has a major and minor color application which fits so well with the decor and brings balance and creativity to the project.

Enjoy!

Is Your Creative Button Turned On? Be original!

Is your creative switch turned on? You ask, where is it? It’s there and all you have to do is get acquainted with it, if you haven’t already.

Here is an idea to get you started. As I contemplated writing this blog, I thought about my clients and would-be-clients. The thrilling part of my job is to see that they use their creative button often. Let’s get personal and talk about you. You have imagination that I would like to see you put to good use. Consider using it to explore a different way to use the wall space in your home.  Even if you’ve never done a project that causes change in your home, this is one that you can do. I wouldn’t necessarily expect that you would attempt to do other decorative projects or processes, if you didn’t feel comfortable, but this I believe you can do.  I’m suggesting this, because it’s fairly easy and fun. Since I’m always thinking about change, improvement and thinking outside the box, I feel this project will not be too costly, time consuming or labor intensive.

 Sometimes my mind’s eye sees something that I know would work in a particular person’s home, and it doesn’t matter if it’s a single family home or apartment dwelling. It’s ALL ABOUT HOME. This is one of those projects. We strive when decorating to pull it together for a WOW factor no matter how big or small the space.

For this blog,  I’ve decided  to pick up on an idea I wrote about a couple of years ago. The idea, itself, is the same; the difference is the finished product being used. To get to this idea, I’m going to number each item for you. You don’t have to follow the numbers exactly, just the idea to make it your own.

1. Today, I’m interested in making changes to wall space.  The walls cannot be forgotten when decorating a room. It sometimes sets the whole room off in a fabulolus direction, other times it ties in with other furnishings, etc. in the room

2. Maybe, you want to leave the furniture as is or change it around a bit. My focus today, is the wall space.

3. Think art for the wall, and what you may want to see on your wall. Is it something with lots of colors, or a particular object infused into the drawing, etc.? It could be many things. After all, art is in the eye of the beholder. It could be a photograph or……  something you hadn’t thought about hanging on your wall. This idea may be used in any room you decide on. It won’t break the bank, and is really easy, not very time consuming at all. Are you ready? Roll up your sleeves, get ready and pick a room to start with.

4. My idea to save you money is the use of fabric. Yes, fabric.  Think about all the great looking fabric you’ve seen on furniture, in bedding, etc. It could have been on a wall, and you just didn’t know it.  Find a piece of fabric that is beautiful, exhibits life with it colors, joy, happiness, shapes, designs within the fabric, and it gives you a spirit of fun.  It could be one color or an assortment of colors, or a design etched into the fabric. This artwork will be a spotlight in your room and something to talk about.  Make it eye-popping.

5. What’s your favorite color(s)? What else is in the room, and what about your furniture? Will it all work together? You have to use your imagination. Go through some of your things and see the colors that you tend to gravitate to. Check your furniture and the colors that are in it or around it (ie. rug on floor, etc.) Pick a dominate color and use that to coordinate with other colors in your room or if you already are using muted tones, then you may want to use a pattern that is bright, cheery and makes you feel good. Check out what colors you often pick for clothing, what colors is your wall painted now (if at all) and anything else that will help you make a decision about how this fabric should look.  Many people are afraid of using color for fear it will not turn out right. This is why buying a piece of fabric that has colors in it, or subtle colors, will be your personal, created piece of art. Something that you, yourself pulled together and placed on the wall. 

6. Color is so complimentary. Select the colors in your room, make a statement and love your decision (and other’s will too). Before you start, pick a room and then a wall where you will place your new creation.  Once the decision is made, you will apply tape (i.e. masking tape or painters tape) that is easily removed and won’t leave a  residue of glue behind. Be sure to check with the store and read the instructions on the tape, so as not to mess up your walls.  The tape is to be used as a guideline on the wall to show how big or small you want the actual frame should be. Sizing will give you a general idea of how the frame should be for the space it will occupy.  Important: take into consideration the size of your room and furniture.  Once this step is accomplished, step back and get a good impression of whether it will work for that area where you want to place it.  No matter what… it will be original. It is your creative skills that has produced this masterpiece with your name on it.  No one will have exactly what you have (unless they just love your work and choice of colors). After all, this will be a compliment to you.

Fabric has the best patterns, colors, lines, etc. There is so much to pick from. There is something for everyone. Be creative and have fun. Do not be afraid of using colors. As you purchase your fabric, have it mounted so that it is pulled tight over the frame. You can hang it like that, although a bigger frame may go over the whole thing and provide a definitive and complete look to the project.  There, you have original art (you picked the pattern, did all the work, etc.) It’s now your focal point in the room. Enjoy!

I wish you well and would love to hear from you. If you have questions or comments, please let me hear that also. Send photos of the before and after.  I’m sure other’s may be encouraged to try their hand at being An Original Artist and turning their creative button on. Be original.

And Now, What’s Next?

Allow me to wish you the best 2011 and hopefully your Holidays were wonderful. I had the pleasure of spending it with much of my family (except my daughter), and we did visit for a while over the phone. Last year seemed to go by so quickly. It was rather difficult to put it into perspective once Thanksgiving came and went; then the Christmas Holidays were upon us. We whisked through the end of 2010 knowing it was about  over, and we welcomed in 2011 with a spirit of hope and expectations.

How was 2010 for you? I know for many it wasn’t the best of years and possibly seemed like the worst. With every negative, there is a positive and sometimes it takes a lot of energy to foster that light just ahead of you. You may even see the light at the end of the tunnel, but actually getting there is a tough road. What will make you feel better? What will brighten your day and bring that smile back to your face? You’ll just have to make lemonade out of those lemons! Right?

Most recently I had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful men and women with great spirits. They are homeless, and I literally mean homeless. This means no permanent or definite roof over their heads, this means being exposed to all types of temperatures and weather. As I communicated with them, I became very concerned how they would make it through each day (especially on cold, rainy and snowy days). What would they do with the few meager pieces of clothing, etc. they possessed? Well, their high spirits surprised me.  They made me smile more than I could have done for them. At that moment, I realized how fortunate I am … right here and now.

Then, there is another way of looking at what “homeless” means. In this spiraling down economy, there are so many families now who find themselves “homeless”, especially in the states of California, Arizona, Nevada and Florida.  This  homeless situation refers to those unfortunate persons having lost their home due to foreclosure or a short sale, a loss of a job, or the adjustable rate mortgage the banks eagerly handed out a few years ago was about to adjust, and they simply couldn’t afford the new payments.  So, most of these families are now renters until their credit is restored, and they are able to become homeowners once again.

 As a renter, you may think “This is not my house, I’m not decorating it!” Of course, there is always the aspect and reminder of your former residence, and how you made it your own space by decorating it.  The owner of the home may not want you to put holes in the wall or paint it the color you would like.  I say, if you’re going to live in it for a while you want to make it your own!  You have options – try to get the owner to work with you.  Tell the owner you would like to make the space something that speaks of who you are, your likes and that it will be very attractive when you finish. You just have to make assurances that the home will not  change in a way that  will make it unable  re-rent at your time of departure. Suggest that you want to hang pictures, curtains and paint the walls; let this person know that before you move you will restore everything to its previous state by spackling and repainting, if necessary (the owner may love the work you’ve done).  If the owner is still against it, there are always the special bonding strips for hanging just about anything. If painting is not an option, accessorize with lots of color  pillows, art, and window treatments. Most of all, enjoy the roof over your head. Think about others who wished they had that problem of how to decorate a space that is (hopefully) warm, comfortable and keeps the rain out.

 Note: Thanks to our contributor – Mona C.

I believe the subject is of great importance, and Accentuate wants you to know that all types of home aspects will be covered in our blog, on our website (http://www.accentuatehomestyling.com  and Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/accentuatehome.rla

Accentuate will have a brand new service coming soon. Please check often at our website for information.

What is your favorite wine and what foods do you enjoy while sipping on your wine of choice?

Writing this blog is enjoyable. I feel like I have an opportunity to get to know you a little, and you get to know me. You ‘Like’ Accentuate Home Styling and Consulting, and we want to ‘Like’ you back. The importance of our blog, All About Home is to offer you a variety of topics concerning home and life in the home. It doesn’t have to be constant talk about decorating, etc. (although that will be a great part of it) and topics related to home. We want the blog to be fun, informative, meaningful and cause you to keep coming back to see what we’re up to at All About Home.

So, let’ s begin over a smooth glass of my favorite wine. Maybe I shouldn’t say favorite, rather, to note I have a couple of different wines I enjoy from time to time. I’m not a big drinker, so it either water or wine. Much of it depends on what I’m eating, and that is why I posted the question above to you as I did.

Let’s imagine, I’m sitting in my kitchen with you, sipping my glass of Pinot Noir with a great Thai dish, because that’s what sounds really good now. I imagine we would be talking about decorating and issues of change to be made in the home. For awhile now, I’ve noticed that people like to hang out in the kitchen when visiting, entertaining or just because it seems to be the place of importance in homes. I guess it’s because good things come out of the kitchen. It provides us with a warm, comfortable atmosphere and the aromas are usually magnificent. The best decisions are made while being in the kitchen. Did you know that?

This particular blog for the beginning of 2011 seems appropriate. After all, we’re getting to know one another, and you may be working on updating, renovating or decorating a room(s). There’ll be lots of information distributed to you through the blog, along with some brand new information about a new service. We are working on some great things for this year, and I’m excited. Our hopes are that you will be excited too.

You know, I hope you’ll sit in your kitchen, relaxing with your favorite wine, some eats and open up to any of the sites and links we have on the web. You will always find us, and we want you to visit often. After all, friends do keep in touch. Invite others along too. We would like to meet them as well. All the information where you can find Accentuate is posted, but I will give it to you right here. Website: http://www.accentuatehomestyling.com, FB: http://www.facebook.com/accentuate.rla Twitter: @deccorqueen and through email: rita_1467@hotmail. com . There, you have all the ways to find the infomatiion. I will look forward to hearing from you and having fun reading your answer to the above question. If you have special home type projects you’re working on or questions, please share with us. You may teach us a thing or two. ;o)

Thanks. Please submit your comments. Rita