Taking A Fresh Approach

By Christy Rost, January 2007

As we’ve settled into a new year, cold winds, rain, ice and snow have swept across our nation, forcing many to seek shelter by the warmth of a fire. As I write this, I’m doing exactly that, with a cup of hot tea close by.

I’ve just returned from a brisk walk with my husband, Randy along snow-covered paths near a frozen lake. The temperature is hovering around 7 degrees Fahrenheit, and despite the sun, it felt bitterly cold. After this exhilarating high-altitude walk, I’m content to settle inside again and savor the remainder of this gorgeous day from behind a window.

We‘ve been in Colorado for a week, making plans to restore our newly-purchased historic home. I never imagined four months ago when we purchased "Swans Nest", it would take so long to plan its restoration and line up craftsmen to carry out our vision, but Randy and I are definitely making progress. I can now begin to see in my “mind’s eye” just how beautiful and gracious our home will be as our plans become reality in ensuing months.

No matter how long we’ve lived in them, January is a good time to look at our home with fresh eyes and see its possibilities. After holiday decorations are removed and packed away, our homes become like a clean slate, open to many decorative possibilities. Perhaps a thoughtful rearranging of accessories is all that is needed, or an added punch of color from new throw pillows or wall paint. Maybe fresh flowers, a bowl of Granny Smith apples, or a pretty tray of scented candles is sufficient. Whatever your budget, a few creative touches can transform your home into a cozy winter haven.