​​1. Observe the radiators in the living spaces of your home.  If furniture, totes, or other objects are blocking the radiators it is preventing the heat from warming the home.
2. Use area rugs to warm wood, tile, or cement floors.  They add heat and style to any room in your home.
3. Check to make sure the dampers are open; the ductwork adjusts to airflow in your home.
4. If you have a radiator externally attached to your home use reflective foil to prevent heat from escaping.
5. Almost 20% of heat is lost through the fireplace.  Use a fireplace plug to prevent loss of heat and dampness in the home.  If you have concerns about the fireplace, call a local expert for advice on cleaning and fireplace safety.
6. Maintain a schedule and change furnace filters on a regular basis.  See instructions on the furnace filter for recommendations, safety for the home.
7. Reverse ceiling fans, during the winter months change the rotation to counterclockwise, this will move the warm air downward. 
​

It is December already, and Christmas is only 19 days away! So now is the time to organize, and plan the rest of the month.  Purchase a new day planner, or calendar.  Prioritize it! Even though things are different this year, there are many simple events you can plan with your family.  Decorating the house, making treats for neighbors, or cleaning your home office. 

This time of year, I like to go through all of the ornaments and decorations and decide what I want to keep, or donate.  I usually do this process as unpack all of the decorations instead of waiting until "box it" day. Refresh your linens, tablecloths, napkins, and curtains.  

If you decorate with artificial floral, leaves, or farmhouse decorations, look to repurpose it for the rest of the winter season.  I enjoy changing the candles in lanterns, evergreen trimmings to berries and cones.  Also take time to look at your storage containers, do they have cracks, or lids missing? We used cardboard boxes for several years with a black marker written on the outside labeling it, and realized, they retain moisture, and we switched all of our storage boxes over to plastic.  Avoid placing your delicate decorations in areas that are exposed to higher temperatures, because it can melt wax candles and dry out floral or damage photos.  

December is a great month to make a plan for January including an exercise routine, cleaning schedule, dental and wellness appointments, car maintenance, and grooming schedules.  Regardless of the pandemic, please take care of yourself first, stay safe and set time aside to relax, because there is only one you. 

The holidays are here, and it is time to bring out the comfortable, cozy season get ready to celebrate it with your family & friends. Small gatherings, parties, all start at home.  

Decorate with greenery, tree's branches, festive botanicals, throughout the home.  Use simple details in the kitchen, living room and bedroom to welcome guests. Make it special, with red cups, monogram towels, and pillows that add multiple layers of colors, textures, and sizes. 
Update the kitchen with new red pots and pans, or mixer.  Invite cozy this season throughout the house.  Create a winter forest theme in the dining room with neutrals, wood, sage and ornaments 

Decorating for your home can be simple.  Use elements that you may already have in your decor.  For example, lanterns can be used for all seasons.  Mix and match lanterns with mini lights, garland accessories, picks, and battery operated candles. Freshen up the room with a vibrant scent of fall, cranberry vanilla, pumpkin spice, spruce and pine cone, and frosted apple tart. 

Farm House accents or simple placemats and mini lights.  You will make your home feel special with essential decorating tips.  
Placemats, table runners, mini lights, small pumpkins, cloth napkins, small pumpkins, and layering add a simple elegance to your dining room table.

Change it out, use items around your home.  Vases, bright sunflowers, solid colored dishes, rugs, pillows, baskets, and vintage accessories make a colorful display for your harvest home. 

Use What You Have

Decorating doesn't have to break the bank.  Wine glasses or colored glasses can be used as a laying piece.  Include smaller objects like small sea shells, sand, candle violets, or mini lights to special spaces.  

Update the beach look with blue and white candles, flowers, vases, pillows, and bedding.  These small changes will make a big impact in your room. 

Patriotic Celebration
1. Use front porch banners
2. Hang flags
3. Plant red, & white flowers in pots
4. Decorate with food
5. Create a small nook area for relaxing
6. Include red, white & blue lighting
7. Add candles and vases to make it memorable

Lights, Color, Texture, and so much more.  Adding an umbrella as an accessory with your other patio furniture with lift the mood.  Umbrella's are airy accessories that make a statement.  They provide shade, privacy and structure.  If you are looking to update your outside space adding an umbrella by popping a color of yellow, red, or blue will make a huge impact at your next outdoor gathering.  Great conversation piece. Details matter!

Have you been thinking about getting outside and planting a flower garden, or adding a little bit of charm to your backyard or porch? Here are some simple idea's to freshen up outdoor spaces. 

Front Porch - add color with rugs, potted plants, and other garden accessories. 

Front Door - wreaths made from organic leaves, vines, or metal make a warm entry.