Texture, Texture, Texture

Orchid Arrangement

Hi Guys,

Several years ago when we decided to adopt our sweet little Papillons, I wasn't aware that they would shed so much. Little by little we replaced our fabric furniture with all leather. We also got rid of all our throw and room sized rugs.

Textured Throw

Throw on Leather Chair

Chenille Throw 

Very Textured Throw Pillow 

Chenille Throw on Sofa

Although easy to keep clean, our living space looked very cold and bare. What I needed was some texture to bring our spaces to life. I chose inexpensive throws and textural pillows to spread around the space. The dogs love them, I love them, the room looks warmer, and, best of all, everything can go into the washing machine and dryer. I have the best of both worlds.

Flowers also add texture to a room, so don't forget to put a bouquet or plant in every room.

So if your rooms seem a little cold and bare, add some texture.

That's my tip for today.

b

Zippy on Throw Pillow in Family Room

Decorating the Mantel Part 2

Finished Mantel

Hi Guys,

With the help of my son, the mantel is finished. I used a decorative plate/vase from the kitchen to put on one end. I tried putting the identical plate/vase on the other end, but it was too symmetrical, and I didn't like it. I then tried putting my live orchid plant up there and it was all right, but nothing exciting. I then got the idea of putting one of my Murano vases up there and filled it with three different kinds of orchids.

Too Symmetrical

Instead of the picture, we bought a line of music in rustic gold. It doesn't show up very well, so I will spray paint it silver.

The candles in the center are on a timer. They light up at night and give the room a wonderful ambiance.

Live Orchid Plant

Try changing your mantel decorations. It will make your room seem new and special this winter.

That's my tip for today.

b

Orchid Arrangement in Murano Glass Vase

Decorating the Mantel

My Christmas Mantel

Hi guys,

Well, the Holidays are over and it's time to put the Christmas decorations away. I am now pondering what I want to do with my family room mantel.

For several years I have decorated it with orchids and candles. Although it is beautiful, I would like to do something different this winter.

This is the way I usually decorate the mantel.

I will give it some thought and show you the results.

My tip for today is to do something different with your mantel to freshen up your room. If you don't have a mantel, add new pillows to your sofa, buy a beautiful new throw, buy a new vase and fill it with beautiful flowers, real or faux, or just rearrange your furniture. It can be as simple as that.

b