Quick Fixes for the Late Winter Blahs

So, here it is -- late winter.  Easter is more than a month away and the early blooms have yet to start peeking their heads out.  It’s the late-winter blahs . . . You look around your house and it feels gray, drab and dreary.  This means it’s time for a quick room-brightening fix or two!  And there’s more you can do than just a pretty bouquet of flowers on the coffee table.

Take a look at your curtains or sheers.  When was the last time you laundered them?  For that matter, when was the last time you replaced them?  If you can’t remember, it’s probably time to either get them cleaned or replace them with something eye-catching and brand-new.  This easy little task will instantly brighten any room.  While you are out, pick up a few new throw pillows.  A fabric with a cheerful, contrasting color will easily update your living, family, or bedroom.

When was the last time you rearranged your decorative pieces?  This is another quick and easy fix to give a room new life.  If things look a bit crowded on the mantle, it’s time to edit.  Perhaps just a few bold pieces will do.  Next, check out the bookshelves.  Are they neat and tidy? Everything lined up properly?  How about using a beautiful piece of pottery or glasswork as a bookend? 

Remember, for true sophistication less is more.   No need for overcrowding of all the wonderful things you have collected the world over.  If shelves are crowded, go ahead and stash some of your treasures in a protective storage box.  Then, every few months you can rotate pieces, changing the look in a room just a bit.  Your things will have more meaning when you can truly showcase their beauty (and that won’t happen when looking at 15 things on a little shelf!).

Enjoy your easy, new changes while enjoying these last days of winter.  Spring is just around the corner!

Contributed by Heather Martinez