Small Changes can make a Big Difference

It is often said that it is the little things in life that count, and in decorating the same can be true.  When you are looking to make a change in your decor, a small change can lift your spirits-- something as simple as changing your bedcover from a heavy winter cover to a soft, light weight cover for summer.

You change our wardrobes by the season, and you can employ this same logic to your home.  Adding color to your indoor or  outdoor space is easy when you begin with a neutral background; but color is where the fun is.  Kick start your neutrals by adding color in indoor or outdoor throw pillows or rugs.  Outdoor rugs are fairly inexpensive and lend a casual feel to a room that is usually more formal; during the summer months, you might enjoy less formality and the fun of an inexpensive dash of color on the floor.  Add some colorful chair pads to your kitchen chairs and maybe add fun, dinnerware that can be used outside as well as inside.  There are many modern plastics in great colors and patterns; you can coordinate with indoor or outdoor dining, and the bonus feature is they won't break, so the kids can help with set up and clean up.

The bathroom, too, can use a colorful lift.  Take all the little accessories off your countertop and imagine what you'd like there instead-- maybe you would like just a clean, plain counter with some fresh, new hand towels and a simple vase or mason jar of garden flowers.  You could add a colorful tray for the flowers and a favorite object if you have the space.

Sometimes all you have to do is clean off the surfaces of your kitchen or bathroom counters and add only the essential items; you'll feel lighter and freer.  There is no  need to complicate your life with so many things--which is a good lesson for all of us.

Cleaning out closets is not usually a happy task, but a necessary one.  Doing so can lighten your household as well as your mind.  I have a friend that routinely takes a day and sets about getting rid of 100 items: think old papers, magazines, clothes and the things in that junk drawer!  We all have them and they all need thinning out from time to time.  While it may only be a small accomplishment, it counts.  It doesn't take a lot of time and you can take it off your "To Do List."  Cleaning up alone should make you feel better and give you inspiration to move on to the next small project.