...Something Blue

January and February are tough months in Colorado. The days are still short, and the color has not returned to the landscape, so I take this time to “think blue” in my house. The countless ornaments and tchotchkes are packed away and it feels good to dust and start with a fresh slate. There is typically a method to my madness for decorating for the seasons, so here are some easy and inexpensive tips.

The Coco Chanel fashion rule stands for your house: take a look around and then take “One thing off”. This isn’t the season to fill your shelves and every flat surface with “stuff”...so think about STREAMLINING your space.

Focus on something you love: We just framed a very special print from our artist friend in Boulder and we LOVE the colors and style. I based the colors for the den around this special piece. There is something calming about it. Select the FOCUS of your room. (Www.willdayart.com)

Think about changes that don't cost an arm and a leg: RECHARGE YOUR PILLOWS AND THROWS. I have found the best way to do this (with pillows) is NOT to buy a bunch more, but rather to change out the covers. Target used to sell them ...wha wha...no more...so IKEA is the spot I typically find new covers. I love the use of velvet all winter long. The throw I had to shop around for (mostly because I wanted a comfy one and a specific color). I found it at Marshalls for $14.99.

I just couldn’t get myself to ditch my new flocked tree (no ornaments) into the depths of the basement, so I used it in the den to bring a winter -feel into the room. There are no rules about this. I just LOVE white twinkle lights. If I could, I would have them up all year! If you don’t see yourself doing that, BRING IN A FRESH HOUSE PLANT. It is good for the air in the room and adds something “alive”!

It’s just a puzzle kind of season. When football is on, or we want to spend time doing something other than T.V., it’s fun to mess with a puzzle or play a game. KEEP AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE TV CLOSE.