Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP's Blog

Funky kids room

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 22:25:37 -0700

The Clients are fantastic...carte blanche...

go ahead..."the only thing is that our 3 year old daughter is "funky"...likes Ed Hardy."

So I knew I couldn't do the traditional pink or purple...something different, but still "Little girlish".

I had the picture above the bed commissioned by a local artist..it's a watercolour. Great investment.

The furniture is Canadian made; birch wood. The platform bed includes 6 storage drawers in the base of the bed.

The armoire is "Mary-Kate and Ashley" furniture from AP industries. The finish is called a "distressed white". Paint colour used is "Decorator's White" by Benjamin Moore on 3 walls, and the focal wall is called "Lemon Drops".

The girls name is "Summer"...what better colours and theme to pick??

Still waiting upon two pictures above the red chair to complete the look.

Before, Summer didn't want to play in her room. Now, she doesn't want to leave it!

THAT.. makes me happy!

Call Platinum Home today for assistance with your project!

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP

Platinum Home Designs

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/ b. 905.561.1916

Details in Design

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 20:10:05 -0800

It's all in the details..........

light fixtures, cohesive colours, utilizing many different textures...

as they say..pictures speak volumes..so I won't

Call Platinum Home Staging and Design today for a consult!

Let us provide you with a fantastically beautiful space!

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging and Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/b.905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Kitchen Renovation - With some helpful tips!

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:48:12 -0800

Kitchen Renovations -well worth the short term inconvenience

The inconvenience? Not being able to cook for a bit---(apparently an inconvenience :) )

-the trade off? A fantastic space that everyone can enjoy and feel comfortable in; after all, it really is the heart of the home.

So what's great about this kitchen?

**Remember; the more textures you use in a room, the more interesting it is. BUT...there's a fine line..you don't want to make it look choppy.

The material on the counter we chose is a beautiful brazilian granite called "Titanium". It has black, dark and light grey's, and some hits of golden and opaque colour. A ton of movement, and not overly repetitive.

We transitioned the dark counters with the maple cabinets by utilizing a backsplash that would help dampen the high contrast of the space. It is a gorgeous 1" glass tile in some light, dark grey's and black.

The glass tile was chosen to add more light reflection, and ensured to add the undercabinet lighting to highlight the fantastic backsplash.

The pendant lighting adds colour and warmth to the space and picks up on the warm cabinet colour.

The colour we used on the ceiling is a very cool light grey to add softness to the space, as opposed to a typical white, cold ceiling. The walls a taupe with a green undertone to compliment the cupboard wood tone and cut down on their "orange" tone.

We have introduced some iron accessories to add yet another texture in the lighting, table and chairs.

The kitchen also boasts an elegant granite sink and brushed nickel, goose necked tap with a pull out head/hose for convenience.

We have utilized undercabinet lighting to highlight the backsplash, and it's great task lighting.

Let me know your thoughts!

If you're looking to get your kitchen renovation completed with top quality that reflects your style, call on

Platinum Home Staging and Design to beautify your space!

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging and Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling" c. 289.260.9404/ b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

THIS Is Why You NEED to Paint Dated Cupboards!

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 20:58:30 -0700

I get this hesitation time and time again with my clients

They are nervous about painting their cupboards.

Even if they are dated--the arguement being, the wood is in good condition.

Every situation is different and must be evaluated so.

However, most often than not...it needs to be done.

So don't be afraid...seek out a paint brush and start with the inside door if you are nervous.

Well...pictures speak louder than words.

You decide...the right thing to do?

Master Bedroom Ensuite Bathroom

After

Main Bathroom Before

After

For all of your design, decor, and staging needs, call.....

Julia Fedak, Design Consultant and Home Stager

Platinum Home Staging and Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404

b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Before You Sell Your Home, Know this.......

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:05:27 -0700

Staging Sold This Home in East Hamilton Mountain!!

This client had her home on the market for 3 months with no offers!

She took her sign down, and decided to start from scratch to get it in a desirable state.

With a small budget, some elbow grease, and the expertise of Platinum Home Staging Design, the house went back on the market and sold within 2 weeks!

Platinum Home Staging helped the homeowner prioritze her funds to get her the best return on her investment. Alongside the advice, Julia Fedak of Platinum Home and her assistant enhanced the appearance of the home with just a few rented furniture and decor pieces.

LIVING ROOM, DINING ROOM

BATHROOM

Call Platinum Home Staging Design today to help YOU maximize your return on YOUR home!

Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404

b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

If this doesn't make you understand the value of staging..............

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:09:00 -0700

HOMEOWNER'S and AGENTS!!!!

I have heard it several times...

"The owner doesn't feel that staging is worth it..."

"The owner's don't want to put the work in the home...too much effort....""

Well....I'm here to let you in on the strategy that successful agents and owners use...

the market IS slowing down...

thats why it is even MORE crucial to utilize staging!!! Stand OUT before others!

Secondly, you can't dispute statistics...

please read the following testimonials from an agent and a seller.........SOLD on the amazing results of Staging!

Your home is probably your largest investment.....ensure you get your largest return!

"Wow.....staging works! I listed a 2 bedroom condo and it sat on the market for 6 weeks with no offer. Why? It was vacant - not a stitch of furniture anywhere. So.....my seller and I decided to hire Julia Fedak at Platinum Home Staging Design. The result? We had 2 offers within 6 days of staging the home!! Julia made the space look welcoming and inviting which allowed the potential buyers to picture themselves living there. She provided all the furniture and decor and truly brought the unit to life! I'm happy to say the property sold for 99% of asking price and was one of the highest sales in the complex! Thank you so much Julia for your hard work and professionalism. You got the job done fast and right and went above and beyond co-ordinating everything with me, my seller and even the property management company. I have learned that staging definitely works and is worth the financial investment. I look forward to recommending Julia to my future clients - she is truly first class!"

Holly Moist
Sales Representative
RE/MAX Garden City Realty Inc., Brokerage
720 Guelph Line, Burlington, ON
(905) 333-3500

"Selling your home can be a stressful time. We had our home up for sale
for
3 months and decided to take it off the market because we had no
offers. I
knew we had to do something and I took the leap and called Julia.
Julia was
very professional, but at the same time very easy to work with. My
family
was skeptical, until they started to see the transformation. Paint
colour
changes, rearranging of furniture, some additional furniture and
accessories
and I wasn't sure I wanted to sell anymore. But sell we did, in only 2

weeks. So now my family says: get Julia to come in to your new house
and
have her work her magic so that your new home will look just as great
as the
old one you left. They have all agreed that home staging played a
significant part in the selling of our home. Thank you Julia, a truly
understanding, knowledgable professional!"

Judy Hitchen, Homeowner, Government of Canada

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404

b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Condo Sits on the Market for WEEKS before staging....SOLD IN 9 DAYS AFTER STAGING!

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 22:38:15 -0700

So How Are You Going to Make Your Listing Stand Out From the Rest?

There are a lot of homes on the market right now. Many of them just sitting.....for a long time. Waiting for the "right" buyer.

Well, you can't really do much about size and location....but you can certainly create a real WANT for your property.

This is an example of that.

This condo is in a great area of town. There are several of these that were/are up for sale.

They showed it empty. It sat, without one offer, on the market for 6 weeks.

After it was Staged, it firmed up an offer in 9 days!

Just another example of why we need to stage our properties!

Julia Fedak

Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404

b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Living Room After

Master Bedroom After

What would YOU do?

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 20:32:15 -0700

So you develop your reputation...your name, your company for several years.

When people google you...your company...you should come up, right?

What would you do if your company name was EXACTLY duplicated by someone else--in the same profession.

I have been around to hear people get upset about articles and blogs being duplicated, and pictures being "shared".

But company names? EXACTLY?

Frustrating.

Be creative folks.

What would you do?

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging (of Canada)

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

A Daily Motivational Quote I had to Share...

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:57:10 -0700

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS

Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404

b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

"If the shoe doesn't fit".....some more design advice

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 22:37:11 -0800

So why is it that when we buy shoes, we make sure that they fit properly....but when we buy furniture...a much larger investment, we don't plan and take measurements???

Unfortunately, I see this all the time. People call me in after they have purchased couches, chairs, loveseats, tables....

can I help them???.. something"doesn't feel right". It just doesn't seem to fit...or does it?

Let's discuss some basis principles when picking out furniture.

-Firstly, what is your budget...and how will it be dispersed?

-Secondly, look how you and/or your family will live in the space.Will you watch t.v., read books, and play games?

-How much seating is required? Do you have company over frequently?

-What furniture pieces are needed, or best suited for the space?

-Measure out the size...length and depth.

-Don't forget about "visual weight", In other words, two couches may be the same length and fit in the space; however, one may suit the space better. If it's a narrow room, don't purchase anything with large roll arms and fat pillows. Conversely, be careful not to buy a small, sleek piece that may get lost in a large space, or a room with a vaulted ceiling. As well, consider colour. A piece of furniture with dark fabric will feel "heavier" in the room than the lighter fabric.

-Speaking of fabric....it's not only colour, but the type of fabric that you would like. Make sure you choose one of durability when you have young children and pets.

There are SO many factors when designing a space to suit your and your family's needs.

Consult with a professional before you purchase furniture that you CANNOT return, or is custom with a large restocking fee!

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/b. 905.561.1916

Serving the Hamilton-Wentworth, Halton, and GTA region.

Another Staging Success Story!

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 10:42:37 -0800

This home sat on the market for 6 months---before Staging.

The client was getting anxious. They had already purchased a home in another province, and living there.

Once the listing expired, they hired another agent with a strong marketing plan.

This agent had recommended having the home staged, and the client agreed.

Just under 3 WEEKS after the staging, the home SOLD for 97% OF THE ASKING PRICE!

The client is thrilled that she no longer has dual expenses and can get on with life!

Here are some before and afters.

Before

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/ b.905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Beautiful Home in Millcroft, Burlington

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:14:24 -0800

If you are looking for a gorgeous home in the sought after area of Millcroft, come see this beauty!

Staged by;

Julia Fedak, Canadian Staging Professional

Platinum Home Staging Design

c. 289.260.9404

b. 905.561.1916

For more information;

Contact;

Mary Briatico,

Sales Representative; Right at Home Realty

b. 905.577.0220

c. 289.259.1850

mary@marybriatico.com

Optimize Your Biggest Investment

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 19:38:48 -0800

Most People Know by Now...Statistically Proven, Staged homes Sell FASTER and for MORE MONEY...

BUT

Is that where the buck stops, so to speak?

For many people, our homes are our largest investment. So don't you want the BEST return on your largest investment?

As homeowner's, it is important to try to see the home through the prospective buyer's eyes. That door that has the hinge loose, or the grout in the bathroom tub that needs fixing, or perhaps the kitchen countertop is marked up....do you ignore it and hope the buyer won't be bothered by it?

Absolutely NOT!

Statistics also show that most people want move-in ready homes; they have limited time and funds for repairs upon moving in.

The Appraisal Institute of Canada(AIC) states that your best ROI (return on investment) are firstly major or minor kitchen renovations. Secondary is minor bathroom renovations. Painting and flooring also show a great percentage of ROI.

As well, the AIC developed a program called RENOVA. This is on their website, and is a web-based interactive guide that allows one to figure out the value of their home improvements by entering prospective project costs. I will reinforce that this is a general guide; there are many other qualifying factors to consider for an accurate ROI (property location, quality of materials and workmanship).

These renovations as discussed are considered to be significant marketing tools. Not only recovering the cost of the renovations, but they may also spark a bidding war. Therefore, selling your home quicker..more money..reducing the opportunity for a price reduction.

Consult with a Real Estate agent, and a Redesign Specialist in your area to ensure the best possible solutions for renovation.

Happy Renovating!

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling" c. 289.260.9404, b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Platinum Home Staging Design-New Website! More photos!

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:54:27 -0800

Platinum Home Staging Design

would like to take this opportunity to wish all past and present clients a Happy, and Healthy New Year!

In addition, we would like to inform you of our new website! http://www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com/

Platinum Home Staging Design has added more photos and more info.

If you have any questions, or design dilemma's, please call us or use the contact form provided on our website.

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/b.905.561.1916

http://www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com/

Interior Design Tips for Dining Rooms

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 19:02:23 -0800

Some important advice when choosing furniture for your Dining Room

Just measuring it is NOT enough!

1. When choosing the shape of your dining room table;

-it is as simple as looking at the shape of the room itself. If it is rectangular, then purchase a rectangular table. Similarily, if it is square, replicate the room's shape. However, you may decide in a square space, if there is not much room to opt for a round drop leaf table; or in a rectangular room that is narrow, to consider an oval table.

2. When choosing the finish-colour or material;

-consider the "visual weight" of the table and chairs. In a smaller room, you must try to avoid a "heavy" looking table and chairs. This is done by carefully choosing the materials and colours of the furniture. For example, a table that is glass appears much lighter than one of heavy, solid wood. In addition, a darker colour has more visual weight than a lighter colour. This is NOT to say you can't have a dark, solid wood table in a small space. You just may need to balance it with lighter coloured, slim chairs.

3. Ensure you choose a table that is spacious enough;

-each diner should have between 24 to 30 inches for their place setting

4. If purchasing table and chairs seperately, make sure that armchairs slide completely under the table.

5. Sit on the chair for a while. Is it comfortable? This is where you and your guests may sit and enjoy hours of conversation.

6. If you decide you would like a rug for under the table and chairs, the rule of thumb is that the rug has to be at least large enough to accomodate the front legs of the chairs when pulled out from the table for sitting.

In terms of lighting, texture or colour, please refer to previous posts listed under "my blog".

Contact

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling" c. 289.260.9404/b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Bathroom Bliss

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 22:01:07 -0800

Beautiful Bathroom

This bathroom is in a fantastic loft that has an industrial look to it. Exposed brick and duct work.

The client wanted to keep the floor and the exposed brick in the bathroom.

Here are the before and after pictures.

BEFORE RENO

AFTER RENO

We removed the tub and built a shower floor and corner seat with tumbled marble.

The walls and ceiling are glass tiled a light grey with a mosaic strip of similar colours at eye level. In addition, we inserted a potlight into the shower ceiling.

Alcoves were built into the wall for shampoo and soap.

The showerhead is a Moen Velocity Rainshower--it has a lever with two settings--one for rainshowers, the other for central fast flow.

To finish off the shower, clear glass walls and door.

The formica counter top was replaced with stunning quartz; topped with a porcelain Italian sink.

The client loves it! How about you??

Let Platinum Home design your space!

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/ b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Happy Holidays to My Realtors and Clients

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 16:33:31 -0800

Feeling Pretty Blessed

I want to take this opportunity to say thank-you to the Realtors and clients that I have worked with this year.

I feel very fortunate to have relationships with some of the BEST Real Estate Agents out there.

In addition, I have had some truly fantastic clients that I have assisted in the designing of reno's, as well as staging.

Happy Holidays..from my home to yours!

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404

b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Building a Home--the Benefits of Hiring a Design Consultant

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 11:02:59 -0700

I can't tell you how many times I have heard these comments before;

1. "I wish I had consulted with a design professional before building our home. There were so many materials to choose from, and so many colours, and I felt rushed and lost."---Vanessa, Ancaster

2. "We went to the builder's design center to pick out our choices of flooring, counters, and wall colour. It was overwhelming. We even were picking out grout colour....what do I know about grout colour??? Although they have a person who is there to assist you, she doesn't know our style or taste. We certainly have learned from this experience. I think it is truly worthwhile to hire a design consultant. For a minor fee, you have confidence that your home will be EXACTLY how you want it". ----Jen, Ancaster

What are the benefits of hiring a design consultant??

Platinum Home Staging Design starts with a lifestyle questionnaire to get a sense of who you are and what your needs are for your new space. Your home reflects who you are, and we want to make sure that does EXACTLY that.

We apply this information to your floor plan, and assist you in choosing materials that fit your taste, lifestyle and budget.

In addition, the floor plan is reviewed in detail, and Platinum Home will go over other aspects of the home that you may not be able to appreciate....the lighting for example. Overall lighting is a key factor in building a home--it doesn't matter how beautiful it is if you can't see it!

Platinum Home will accompany you to the decor center to help you choose all your materials--from brick to flooring, from lighting to paint colour.

Call us today to book your consult;

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design.."Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/b. 905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

Interior Decorating Tip #8-Curtains!!

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 11:11:18 -0700

"Beautiful curtains make a huge impact and give a finished look to the room...they are functional, and add an element of elegance".---Julia Fedak

LIVING ROOM-BEFORE 1

LIVING ROOM-BEFORE 2

NOW CHECK OUT THE WONDERFUL AFTER PICTURES---LOVE IT!!!

So What Did We Do??

1. We used excellent an excellent quality polyester material, made to look like silk. Backed with a cotton privacy lining to keep the direct sunlight out during the day, and give privacy at night.

2. We ordered curtains in a neutral taupe colour with a warm golden undertone that has the very same colouring to the wall paint. The monochromatic look makes a room feel larger...your eye travels with ease around the room.

3. The drapes puddle on the floor slightly. This gives the room a more elegant feel.

4. The drapery rod for the bay window is a system that is 3 seperate rods that are connected at the corners with the swivel hardware, making it appear as one full piece. This is an excellent system for bay windows--it comes in various finishes, and you may choose your own finials.

Let me help you beautify your space!

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS
Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"--c. 289.260.9404/905.561.1916

www.platinumhomestagingdesign.com

The transformation....

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 24 Jun 2007 19:15:07 -0700

Just wanted to share some photo's from a staging Platinum just completed.

******SOLD IN 7 DAYS!!!!!!!!***************Wonderful clients, limited budget.....these are the results.

The clients have painted all the rooms prior to us going in and staging. But they did agree to repaint the family room!(or what I named, the "blue room").

LIVING ROOM BEFORE AND AFTER

AFTER

FAMILY ROOM BEFORE AND AFTER

Happy Staging!

Julia Fedak, CSP, Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/b. 905.561.1916

Weekly Design Tip #4

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 21:51:56 -0700

GO DRAMATIC!

When it comes to interior design and decorating, I suggest using accessories to add a "punch" of colour.

The major materials used and/or larger pieces of furniture should be classic and neutral, for longevity. Unless you have the funds to renovate or replace your furniture every couple of years, this is solid advice.

And where should you go dramatic???

In rooms that you aren't in for extended periods of time, so no chance of getting tired of them quickly......like Bathrooms and Dining Rooms.

These are just examples of how to go dramatic!

Julia Fedak, Platinum Home Staging Design

"Design for Living, Design for Selling"

c. 289.260.9404/b. 905.561.916

Weekly Design Tip #3(late..sorry!)

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 17:55:25 -0700

THERE IS NOTHING MORE SPECIAL THAN YOUR CHILDS ART

So instead of sticking them on the fridge with a magnet, or putting them in a "memory box", take a few of the ones that you love most and frame them.

Or for a really great look, buy an art canvas for your child to paint. You can ask them to paint you a picture with certain colours to match your decor, or just let them paint whatever they want.

Not only does it make your child feel special, but it also makes for a great conversation piece at a FRACTION of the price compared to other art.

These two are my kids pictures.

Julia Fedak, Platinum Home Staging Design...."Design for Living, Design for Selling"

For All Those Golfers--Hazards of Playing Golf!

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:13:20 -0700

HAZARDS OF GOLF-STRETCH BEFORE YOU START!

Well, I thought I would share this unfortunate, but somewhat amuzing story with you---consider it a word of warning to all you golfers.

My husband and I planned a fantastic weekend getaway with another couple; wine tour, casino, nice dinners, and golf.

David, my husband, decided to play golf with a neighbor during the day before we were going to leave on our wonderful weekend (by the way, this was in lieu of our 15th anniversary getaway which ended up NOT happening because he had to go on a business trip.)

So, they arrive at the course a little early. David wanted to stretch out a little.....Andrew on the other hand, had other plans.

"Bud, you don't need to stretch, do you?"..."Let's get moving so we aren't rushed by anyone behind us". (which is actually a humourous comment because we think Andrew has the course record on completing a round of golf the quickest.

So, there they are on the FIRST hole... just hit off the tee. David, for some unknown reason to mankind, decided to run up the hill to where his ball is. David doesn't run. EVER.

He then felt a pop in his calf. He said it felt as though Andrew had whipped the golf ball at the back of his leg. Yup, it hurt. BUT, like a true die hard golfer....he decided to "walk it off"...just a muscle cramp. He played the rest of the game.

Now, when David came to me and told me what happened, I knew immediately what it was (medical background -previous life)

He had torn his achilles tendon. WHICH MEANS...............he had to go see a doctor...immediately.

Thank goodness I have friends in good places; he saw an orthopeadic surgeon within the hour who told him---guess what , bud, you need a walking cast.

UGH! Did I tell you we were to leave in an HOUR.

(yes, I know I should be more sympathetic at this point, and I was. But, MAN....why now?????)

Well, I have to say, he was a trooper.(Don't think he had much choice :)) We didn't cancel our trip....we just revised it a little.

And yes, David played golf with us the very next day, sporting a lovely bandage around his calf (...with use of a cart...c'mon..I'm not THAT mean)

LET THIS BE A LESSON TO ALL GOLFERS--STRETCH BEFORE YOU PLAY!

(P.S.---he now has to have physiotherapy...he actually inquired if this can inlcude golf)

Love your wine?? You must visit this Niagra Winery.....

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 18:33:25 -0700

CAROLINE CELLARS- SIMPLY PUT, ONE OF THE BEST WINERIES YOU CAN VISIT IN NIAGRA

My husband, myself and dear friends of ours had decided to enjoy a day off and take a wine tour. We have visited a quite a few wineries before, but decided that we would like to try a few different ones.

Now, I'm somewhat of a self-admitted wine snob. I would prefer to drink carbonated water in a restaraunt that doesn't serve some of my favourites, then drink, in my opinion, an "o.k." wine.

We were really looking forward to this tour, visiting four wineries in a region, a couple of them larger and more popular.

BUT.....I have to tell you, I was surprised. My favourite winery was the very last. I wanted to purchase every bottle that I sampled.

Caroline Cellars, 1028 Line 2, Niagra-On-The-Lake

It is a smaller, quaint winery. Owned and operated by the Lakeit family. We were greeted by one of the daughters who gave us our choice of what wine we wanted to sample, rather than having us sample wines that we weren't interested in, as most do.

The winery was built and named after the late Caroline Lakeit; as stated, beloved mother and grandmother.

So......my review? Unbelievable quaint, inviting, prices reasonable, and the wine.......tremendously delicious.

Julia Fedak, CSP, IRIS

Platinum Home Staging Design

Weekly Interior Design Tip #2

Julia Fedak, IRIS, CSP (Platinum Home Designs ) — Mon, 28 May 2007 20:56:26 -0700

DON'T BE AFRAID TO PAINT IT!!!

I believe you can paint almost everything..........alright, I stop at rugs and curtains.
If I had a dime for everytime a client said to me, "You want me to paint wood??"..

Yes. Yes, I do.

Wood veneer? It's a no-brainer.

Just because something is wood, doesn't make it untouchable.

There are all sorts of treatments you can do. Antique it, for the right look. How about the "worn in some areas" look. Or just spiff it up a little. Which is exactly what we did with this fireplace.

This was an old gumwood gas fireplace that had two different tiles on the hearth and face of it; neither of them were very pleasing. In fact. the client disliked it SO much, that she placed her daughters toys in front of it. As well, due to her daughter's disability, she wasn't comfortable having a fireplace insert at all.

BEFORE

AFTER

Painted "Ebony Black"- Benjamin Moore- in a matte finish to diminish the inperfections of the wood

Limestone tile on face, insert area and hearth.

So you be the judge; let me know your thoughts!

Julia Fedak, CSP

Platinum Home Staging Design, "Design for Living, Design for Selling"