Designing With Carol

Every year we all tend to set new goals and resolutions to somehow lose weight, save money, spend more time with friends and family. But do we stop and think about setting goals for our homes? Before January gets away from us let’s look at a few things we can do to make our homes more beautiful in 2015. And in the process make it more efficient.

We all love the tips and suggestions that HGTV has to offer. Here are five resolutions their experts suggest we can do.

1. Clear the Clutter. Over a year’s time I can collect more “stuff” that I might be able to use somewhere or something that I just have to have. Before long my cabinets are full, the decorative items on the shelves are pushing each other off and there’s too much to even dust around. That leads to a dirty and, might I add, a dated look. Go through and pick the items that mean the most to you and pack the rest to be distributed to others who may have more use for them.
2. Change the batteries. This is a great time to check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors for low batteries. I know, most people use the daylight savings time rule to take care of this chore. It never hurts to check it twice.
3. Shrink your energy bills. Only burn lights where you need them. As mom use to say, “Turn off those lights when you leave the room.” If you are away from home much of the day, invest in a thermostat with a timer to function only during those times you are at home. Wash and dry full loads of clothes.
4. Clean with a system. Develop a system for keeping hour home clean. Make sure dirty dishes are stowed in the dishwasher every night. Don’t be faced with that chore in the morning. Same goes for dirty clothes. The bed post does not count as a closet. Vacuuming, dusting, cleaning mirrors and bathrooms can be tackled, normally, once a week. You be the judge.

I had a few parties during the holidays, forcing me to keep my home clean and clutter-free. It really feels good coming into a well-organized environment. I’ve decided to resolve to keep it that way. Well, we will see if that resolution is kept.

I’ve listed only a very few of the simple things we can all do in this new year to make our homes happy homes. If you have the desire to delve deeper into beautifying your home and need help in making those decisions, give Carol’s a call. Our trained staff will be more than happy to help you make those decisions. Resolve to give Samantha or Victoria a call at 940-565-8337. That’s one resolution you’ll be glad you made.

And as always – Happy Decorating!

- Carol Collins, Carol’s Custom Draperies
CarolsDraperies.com