Irene's Inspirations!

Interior Redesign: The Ultimate Green Design!

Fri, 08 May 2009 11:41:23 -0500

This eco-friendly concept is known to repurpose, rearrange and refresh your rooms like you see on HGTV - in one day! Also known as Interior Makeovers and One Day Decorating. There is lots of talk these days about Green Design. What does that mean to you? Springtime is a perfect time to look at our efforts and what we are doing for the environment, our homes and families. How do you go about incorporating Green Design into your home? I have always felt that Interior Redesign is one of the purest forms of Green Design. Our services focus on: "Affordable rearrangements using your existing furnishings to create beautiful and functional living spaces!"

How do you do that?

Purchase items made from recycled materials.
Look for sustainable wood products made from bamboo or eucalyptus.
When you purchase locally, you also help the environment by reducing energy to transport products and you stimulate the local economy.
Go through your home and do an inventory of what furniture, artwork and accessories you really like.
Rethink those special furniture pieces. Can they serve another function in another room?
Are they still in good condition and perhaps need a new coat of paint or refinishing? For smaller jobs, you can use Howard Restor-A-Finish, found at Home Depot. Sometimes it can eliminate refinishing your furniture.
Or maybe the time has come to recycle those pieces you do not like anymore to another person or donate it to charity.
What about consigning some of those pieces that you already have and perhaps recoup some of the money to purchase some updated accessories or artwork? Many stores now carry "Green Products".
No matter what avenue you take, think about how to renew before buying something new.

Springtime is an excellent time for Renewal or Redesign. Do you still need help? We can help you by offering a personal customized Redesign. Renew with Green Design in your space today!

~ Have a Colorful Day!

5 Tips to Improve Your Website!

Fri, 01 May 2009 21:25:49 -0500

It is official. We have just updated our image and our new website for One Day Redesigns! I am very excited because this has been a long time in the wings. Our new website is RedesignBoise.com. We are very pleased with the work our talented webmaster and graphic artist. April Brinkley, from Lipstick and Rouge Designs, is creative and caring. (lipstickandrougedesigns.com) We have been in business for four and a half years in Boise. It was time to update and simplify our look, info and our website all around.

As I was thinking about websites I thought I would share with you things to consider on a recycled article I wrote for IRIS (Interior Redesign Industry Specialists) Resource Newsletter a few years ago. I believe the information still applies to you today.

Whether you are a Redesigner, Home Stager, or any other type of Real Estate Professional, I believe the message applies to you. I hope these tips helps you as you look at your website and see what needs to be changed!

Going to the Next Level - Does Your Website Need A Redesign?

I have spent a lifetime of study in color, design, graphics and art. I am continually researching information on these subjects. We are in a "cutting edge" industry of Interior Redesign that stresses to "declutter" and simplify with an emphasis on the age old slogan of "less is more." Yet, some of the Interior Redesigner's websites throughout our industry appear "busy" and "cluttered." If a website is too congested with many fonts (lettering styles), pictures or graphics, it will appear to have a "cluttered" look instead of a "clean" look. Since first impressions are lasting impressions, then perhaps you may be losing business if your website does not appear to be organized and professional with flair of design. We must be constantly looking at ways to connect with future and current clients with creative ideas that are "unique and fresh." When prospective clients have a deep emotional involvement, they will help all of us move to the "next level."

When we do a redesign many times we look at a room and realize that the colors or styles are outdated. What do you need to take your website to the next level? Does your website need to be updated? Do you have an objective friend or family member that can give you an honest opinion on their first impression of your website? We live in a day where most people are too busy and experience "information overload."

Please consider the following ideas as you review your website:

1. Did you know that the bestselling books are written at a sixth grade reading level? Is your website easy to understand for the person who does not have cable TV or does not know about the concept of interior redesign? Do not use advanced interior redesign terms.

2. Do your fonts, colors and graphics match your logo or design style?

3. Do the fonts coordinate with your logo? To achieve an ideal layout be consistent with one dominant font style for your logo and headings. The balance of your text should be in one or two lighter or simpler font styles without serifs. A serif on a font is any short line stemming from the upper

and lower ends of the strokes of a letter. An example of a font with serifs is Times New Roman and one without serifs is Arial.

4. Do you have an excess of bolded items? If so, you will lose the impact of your text.

5. If your page is overwhelming it will not be investigated. I am usually drawn to a website that has a fresh look that is color coordinated and is balanced like a dynamic interior redesign. If not, then I will not even check out the rest of the website. I once did a redesign for a couple. The husband had a stressful job. When he would come home, he could not relax because the rooms were too disorganized. Even though they had some very nice furniture in their custom home, it did not feel peaceful. One space in particular that we improved was in the main hallway that had a whole grouping of family photos in various sizes, styles, frames and colors. I had them take all of the photos down, select their favorites, and put them in unified frames that we hung in different picture galleries throughout their home. We replaced the grouping with one large piece of artwork of a beautiful bird that was nicely framed. After the redesign the couple commented on how much more relaxed that area felt to them.

What response does your website give to people? Does it look warm and inviting? Does it make people feel like they can relax, grab a cup of coffee and stay a while as they research your website?

Does it feel clean and professional? If you cannot answer "Yes" to these questions, then it may be time to do a website redesign. Trust me when you do, you will go to the next level!

~Have a Colorful Day!

I'm in the Komen Race for the Cure!

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:17:21 -0500

I am finally going to do it! I am going to do the Susan G. Komen 5K walk/run with my local Curves group here in Boise. It has been a few years since I have been in any kind of race or walk. I thought it would be great to join my friends and support a great cause for cancer research.

We all know the importance of giving back to our communities. I have been fortunate that no one in my family has ever had breast cancer. Each time I get my yearly physical it is always a sigh of relief! Unfortunately, I have had a few friends that have experienced breast cancer. So, I am doing it for them. I also think it is important to help in this worthy cause. We have lost way too many friends and family with this disease. If any of you would like to donate money in my name here is the link to do so:

My Race for the Cure Page - Irene Woodworth

To learn more about Komen Race for the Cure, click here: http://komenboise.org

Actually, our new Curves Club owners just recently lost their sister and daughter to breast cancer. So, it is very fresh in all of our minds and hearts.

Why did I choose to workout at Curves?

It is quick workout, 30 minutes three times a week helps us so much.
The environment is very supportive.
It is also conducive to those of us over 40 years plus.
It is in my neighborhood and I have made some wonderful friends there, too!

I also wanted to thank our new owners, Jan Cluff and her mother, Helen. They have been wonderful to all of us. They took over and painted right away to update our Curves for Women, Glenwood and State Streets in Boise, ID. It is so much better in so many ways. It is great to have our owners locally, too. They are working hard to provide a community of real care and concern. They are real encouragers and really care about their member's progress. If any of you want to get in shape, Curves, is a safe and encouraging environment. Check one out in your area. To learn more about Curves for Women, click here: http://www.curvesinformation.com You will be glad you did!

~ Have a Colorful Day!

The Colors and Designs of Mexico!

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:55:50 -0500

Earlier this month, we went to San Luis Potosí, México. (My husband finished his final doctoral project there.) When I travel, I enjoy observing the trends of a city, especially from a design and color perspective. Since I am Hispanic, French and Irish, I felt like I had come full circle with some of the design preferences I have had all of my life. The colors of México are vibrant throughout the city. The people are very passionate and colorful as well. We saw several buildings and homes painted in orange, red-orange, red and gold colors. Some of their buildings even included bright indigo blue and bright green colors. Yes, they still had the off-white and brown tone colors. Nevertheless, you would see contrasts of those brighter colors sprinkled throughout the region.

The most prominent thing about the architecture is that most of the buildings are built vertically. They line up side by side. We did not see any yards, lawns or empty spaces between homes and commercial buildings like we have here in the United States. The commercial buildings and residential homes have indoor patios or yards usually walled off with wrought iron gates or solid metal doors. The wrought iron gates are either contemporary or in a traditional scroll style.

Historically, Latin countries create and use a variety of tile throughtout their designs. However, we were surprised to see how often they used tile on entire walls in their bathrooms, dining rooms and kitchens. They believe tile creates cleaner spaces.

When we visited the downtown historical section, it was like we were walking back in time. It looked very European. There were several amazing old and newer contemporary buildings mixed together. It was refreshing to see a few parks interspersed in between the buildings. Throughout history no matter how poor this city was, most of the money went into the local churches. The greatest architectural detail was usually displayed in a very dramatic fashion in these churches.

In summary, the colors and designs throughout San Luis Potosí, México were very bold, striking and distinct. Traveling gives you an opportunity to enrich your life, discover how others live and create memories that stay will with you forever!

~ Have a Colorful Day!

Makeover helps with healing and hope - Serena House Residents get a Welcoming Space

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:04:15 -0500

Dear Active Rain Family and Friends,

We were just published in the Idaho Statesman's Treasure Magazine April/May 2009 issue.

Here is the link to the article: "Makeover helps with healing and hope - Serena House Residents get a Welcoming Space"

This slick magazine only gets published 6 times per year. The article featured our Redesign Giveaway Project that we did this past Winter for the Boise Women's and Children's Alliance. The WCA hired a Media Specialist to generate press for this and their other projects. They even included a couple of links to our homepage!

We gave two WCA liaison staff members a Dewey Color Consultation. They liked the Brown Tones, which set the color palette for the entire Paint and Redesign Project. Everyone just loved it!

BTW, we just returned from our wonderful and successful Mexico trip for Dan's Doctoral Seminar. Our friend and mentor Dr. Vincent Kituku sent me an email of "Congratulations" while we were gone. (More about our trip later.) What an unexpected and fantastic surprise!

This is a miracle to finally get PR and exposure. Some things are worth waiting for!

To see other pictures of our Transformation you may go to: "The Color of Hope"

~Have a Colorful Day!

Five Tips on Selecting your Domain Name!

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 17:39:14 -0500

How many of you struggled in finding a domain name that either matches your business name or describes what you do in a very short space?

Our name of our parent company is One Day Redesigns, Inc. I know how challenging it can be to find the name that truly depicts your image and says it in a short and sweet way. Companies spend lots of money to get the right message across to their potential clients.

When we selected the name for our Redesign business years ago, there was someone else who already owned the domain name of: www.OneDayRedesigns.com. So, the next best thing was to use our full business name of www.OneDayRedesignsInc.com. We have used it for years. It has really been challenging for people to spell it correctly.

On a side note, you know the proverbial way that some people butcher your last and sometimes your first name? I know how hard that can be because it has been a challenge my entire life. My maiden name was Irene Judy Archuleta. (Yes, like David Archuleta from American Idol. I had the name long before he did!) The kids in school would continually get a kick out of how each new teacher at the beginning of the year would call out my name and really butcher it. I got everything from Irene Artichoke to Ilene Enchilada. No kidding. So, when I got married I thought finally I have a name that will be easy. My married name became Irene J. Woodworth. Guess what? People still butcher my name and I get everything from Arlene or Ilene Woolworth, or Woodward. So, now I tell people it is Irene, like "Goodnight Irene" and Woodworth, I am "worth more than all of the wood in the world!" That is what my late mother-in-law Barbara Woodworth said to tell people. People remember my name and who I am now!

Now back to domain names. We bought a few other domain names to possibly use in the future. Through time you get clearer in your marketing message. Through experience you discover what services you enjoy doing the most. That is just what happens in business.

We are in the process of simplifying and streamlining our business identity, marketing message and logo. We believe that there are always ways we can improve in our lives and business. We thought that now was the time to simplify our domain name as well. We still want to keep our business name of One Day Redesigns because it is very clear that in "One Day we can redesign your home or office." We wondered how we could change and simplify our domain name. What could we choose to make us memorable to others? I was tired of people forgetting to put an "s" on Redesigns or including the "Inc" in our name. Our new domain name is www.RedesignBoise.com.

Marketing Experts say it is best to match your domain name to your business name as close as possible. Sometimes the name you want is already taken. So, here are some tips that may help you:

Do you have a domain name that matches your business name? If it is simple it will work. If your business name is not available or too long then are there other words you could use to describe what you do?
Make it simple and easy to remember. What name can make you memorable? Is there something else that says what you do? Our new domain name is www.RedesignBoise.com because we want to Redesign as many homes as possible in the Boise Metro Area, where we live and do Business. Is that too big of a vision? I don't think so. Don't limit your vision or your dreams. You've got to shoot high to reach anything!
What message or name will make you stand out from your competitors? What characteristics make you special?
Did you know you can purchase a new domain name and keep the one you already have? You can have your old domain forwarded to your new domain. You can also add new email addresses with your new domain name that forward to your current email accounts. Most domain name providers allow you to have free unlimited email forwarding accounts. If this sounds too complicated to do, then ask your Webmaster to do it for you.
How about including your city or region in your domain name, like www.RedesignBoise.com? This will do a few things for you. It will identify where you are located and do business, it will make you more user-friendly and community minded. Also the Real Estate community knows that when people are considering moving into an area, they will search on the Internet for services in that city. Your name will usually list higher than your competitors.

Stay tuned for our new logo and website changes.

I hope these ideas and tips help you to refine and market you in your best possible way!

~Have a Colorful Day!

Idaho Remodeling, Sources and Design Tradeshow Update

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:36:37 -0600

It was great to meet so many people interested We were recently in the Idaho Remodeling Sources and Design Trade Show at the Grove Hotel in Boise. Most attendees were eiither remodeling or getting ideas for their homes. We met some Color Enthusiasts, too. Irene's presentation on Color was one of the best attended seminars throughout the weekend. People really enjoyed discovering about themselves from one of our We Make Color Easy Personality Tests. There were a few giggles as to the amazing results!

Some people even called me "Idaho's Color Lady!" Great branding, so that is one of the titles I will now use to differentiate myself from others in Idaho.

We even had our friends from Wall Words come up from Southern CA. They were in the booth next to ours. It was interesting to share and learn from each other. Carrol Caldwell, the Owner and Creator of Wall Words and Jackie Young, her Manager, had some very clever ideas for their vinyl lettering and graphics that can be used throughout your home. Click here to learn more about Wall Words.

Invitation to the IDAHO REMODELING, SOURCES & DESIGN SHOW!

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 23:07:06 -0600

I thought I would let you know that if you live in the Boise Metro area of Idaho, we invite you to the Annual Idaho Remodeling Show at the Grove Conference Center tomorrow, Saturday, January 31st from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and on Sunday, February 1st from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM before that Super Bowl Party. This is sponsored by The Idaho Business League. If you want to learn the latest in trends and ideas for your remodeling needs for your homes, friends or clients home this is the one biggest shows of the year.

There will be plenty of speakers that will be sharing their expertise on a variety of topics to improve your home and in your remodeling efforts.

On behalf of The Color And Redesign Institute I will be presenting "The Six Steps with Success with Color." I will be presenting this on Saturday, January 31st. Join us if you can. It is amazing how our color choices determine our communication styles and relational styles with people. One of the Color Tests from The Dewey Color System is now being offered on CareerBuilder.com. Color one of my passionate subjects is always intriguing to me and my clients. The colors that we love and need in our lives is very powerful.

So if you are in our area stop by and see us at the Trade Show. Come out and get inspired about remodeling, coloring, redesigning and updating your home. Improving your home and environment can truly encourage and refresh your space and attitude. Some of my clients that are selling their homes continue to tell me why I didn't do this sooner and enjoyed my home before getting it ready to sell? Why wait, get going and get inspired!!

SEMINAR SCHEDULE

Saturday, Room 1 - The Perch
10am Remodeling & Additions for Cleaner, Greener Homes
11am The Top 10 Items You Should Consider When Looking to Replace Your Windows
12pm The 7 Pitfalls of Remodeling & How to Avoid Them
1pm Smart Kitchen & Bath Design - Balancing Function, Fashion, Value & Sense
2pm How to Maximize the Return on Your Investment
3pm Own Your Home Free & Clear
4pm Determining Your Remodeling Budget
5pm Outlook and Opportunities - Don't Fear the Bear

Saturday, Room 2 - The Merlins
10am Inexpensive Remodeling with Vinyl Wall Lettering and Wall Décor
11am Universal Design in the Home
12pm Design. Build. What is it & How Does it Work?
1pm The Six Steps To Success. Under Pressure? Where Do You Lose It? Score Big? Overdo It? by The ColorAnd Redesign Institute-Irene Woodworth
2pm How to Grow Old With Your Home
3pm Green Building Materials - Why it Matters & What is Available
4pm Saving Energy! It's a Beautiful Thing.
5pm All About Countertops. Replace or Resurface?

Sunday, Room 1 - The Perch
12pm Why Hire an Interior Designer?
1pm Reconfiguring Space: A Design Study of Four Major Types of Remodels - Ideas to Cost Effectively Redesign Your Existing Home
2pm How to Choose the Right Contractor for Optimal Results

Sunday, Room 2 - The Merlins
12pm Don't Go Topless...Which Countertop is Better for You?
1pm The 7 Pitfalls of Remodeling & How to Avoid Them
2pm Smart Kitchen & Bath Design - Balancing Function, Fashion, Value & Sense

To learn more go to www.IdahoBuisnessLeague.com

Join us and get inspired!

~Have a Colorful Day!

A Reflection on 2008 and a New Year!

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 23:37:27 -0600

Happy New Year to All of you! I have been about two weeks late in life, business and my home life. It has been a very busy season and all around year for us! I finally was ab;e tp tale down all of our Christmas decorations this past weekend. Of course, that started an organizational project in our four car garage. I got one fourth done and will keep chipping away at it during the next few months. I decided I had to organize my office to be able to work on our many upcoming classes, presentations and of course our business.

Yesterday and today were the first days I have been alone in a long time. My husband and son are out doing a painting project for one of our dearest and oldest clients. I actually had time to think and reflect on the past year. For us 2008 was truly a year of Accomplishments and Growth. We were all tested and overcame in many areas. It has truly been an adventurous ride! Never a dull moment in our lives. WOW!!

We traveled the most in our business and family. We met some very interesting and talented people. We also visited California four times (Palo Alto, San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County and Riverside), Atlanta, GA, Denver and Evergreen, CO and Portland, OR. I hosted several teleconferences for IRIS and began our own teleconferences for The Color And Redesign Institute. There were several speaking engagements including, St. Al's Hospital, Key Bank and various other businesses large and small. We trained the most Color Consultants throughout the United States.

This is also the last term for Dan to finish his Doctoral Research Project. He has almost completed his dissertation. Now we are preparing for his seminars and testing part of his project. (I will share more on that on another post.) What a transforming process it has been for all of us!

We had our Annual Holiday Open House after Christmas and we had so much fun! It was great to connect with old and new friends and family! I need to share how fun it was to finally meet in person one of our local Active Rain member, Pam Pugmire, join us. It was great to finally meet her in person! What a treat for all of us! We all decided she is even more beautiful in peson than her pictures on Active Rain! (Gary Woltal we finally met. Can you believe it?!) It is such a small world. Pam happened to come later in the evening right before one of our oldest friends (30 years) Jim and Letty Barnes now from Meridian, ID. They knew Pam while she was a checker in her Boise State University college days before all of her six kids. Go figure. We had such a great time laughing, sharing, and visiting. I think everyone finally left at 11:30 PM. It is the most heartwarming feeling to hear joy, laughter and such a good time when we get together. You can not put a price tag on that!

We are so very blessed with the greatest asset personally and professionally with overflowing friends, business associates and of course our family. In November and December we were honored to do some very rewarding Redesign Giveaways to the Women's Children's Alliance, the outstanding Life's Kitchen Volunteers - George and Helena Fortier and also a Redesign for the Gardner Family. It has been a very busy time and it felt great to make such a difference in so many lives and homes!

We also were able to get together with our families in Boise. Since, everyone is so busy most of the time, it felt great to just eat, visit and share with each other. Our niece, Natalie, came home from her college studies in the Big Apple. It was the first time in a couple of years, she had come home, so that was good for all of us. I decided to make one more holiday brunch for the family right before she departed. I had to take advantage of all of our Christmas decorating we had done and a good excuse for a party! What a fun and relaxing time it was for all of us.

So, as I continue to clean, organize and prepare for another amazing year in 2009, I am so grateful. No matter what the economy looks like, I continue to thank God every day for his blessings, protection, and wisdom. I desire to be a blessing no matter where I go, what I do or who I touch! Sometimes it is good to get back to basics, don't you think?

Expressing Love with Brand New Shoes!!!

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 19:11:50 -0600

I had a unique opportunity last week to do something fun, inspirational and creative! I wanted to express love in action with some brand new shoes! Seven weeks ago, I met an amazing young Woman Entrepreneur that opened "Perfect Pair Shoe Boutique" in Boise, ID. At first glance, I thought to myself that these designer shoes were beautiful, but way out of my price range. I am a real Budget Shopper and never pay full price for anything!I received an email last week from my new business associate letting me know that she was going to liquidate some of her last season's shoes at 70% off the regular store prices. These one-of-a-kind shoes are from New York, Seattle, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

I thought it would be a good idea to support my new friend and check out her shoes. I was pleasantly surprised to find a few pair I could actually use. My son bought me a wonderful early Christmas present - beautiful black suede and patent leather combination pumps with a designer twist. They are the most expensive pair of shoes I have ever worn! I even found some fun, comfy, dressier shoes to wear with my jeans. What woman does not like shoes? What a fun treat and surprise!!

Last Sunday morning, I thought about how my 20 year old niece would just love these types of shoes! I called her Mom, my sister-in-law and asked her to find out if her daughter would be interested in some new shoes. I have never seen them move so quickly! They dropped everything and we were off. We not only found shoes for my 20 year old niece, her older sister attending college in New York, but also for my beloved sister-in-law. (I put a lot of thought into gift purchases for my loved ones.

I don't buy gifts carelessly.) Now, the funny thing was I told them that I could only spend a certain amount. They were very appreciative that I would even purchase one pair of shoes for each of them. We found some amazing deals too good to pass up. There was a remarkable pair of designer shoes that I just had to buy for my younger niece. I have never seen her so excited and grateful for these gifts! Now, this young lady has been through quite a bit. She is always the one who is helping and encouraging her friends. She even helped her parents through a very difficult time this past year. It is very challenging to know how to buy the perfect meaningful and useful gifts for your twenty-something nieces! Today will be a special memory for me for me all because of brand new shoes!

~Have a Colorful Day!

Don't Give Up, You may be the next Winner!

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 18:18:44 -0600

Dear Active Rain Family,

How many times have you dreamed a special prize or award? Have you ever gotten discouraged and wonder if you will ever win the prize? Do you sometimes lose sight of your goal? I want to share a story with you on the importance of not giving up on your dreams and goals.

As a Certified Interior Redesigner and Home Stager through IRIS (Interior Redesign Industry Specialists) we had our recent National Conference in San Diego, CA. I thought it would be great to share my story of perseverance and not giving up on a personal goal with my Active Rain Family. As part of our Conference, we have a special Photo Challenge of the various redesign and staging projects that we have done during the past year. There are always various categories that we can enter.

Have you ever noticed that these things jusually occur during your businest times? My husband, Dan, is usually very supportive of my endeavors. He wondered why I was working so hard to get this entry in with all of the other pressing needs we had in our business. I do think his concern was for the time it took to enter this challenge in the midst of a very busy time within our business of One Day Redesigns and The Color And Redesign Institute here in Boise, ID. He wondered why did I kept entering these contests. I told him, "Someone's going to win, and who knows it might be me!"

I finally sent my application priority mail and got that crossed off my "To Do List!" I was glad to see that they had improved and changed the rules for this Special Photo Challenge.

Since, we had to do our Color Training prior to the National Conference and we were going to visit our family in Southern CA we thought it would be best to drive. Also, it would be a lot more economical this year!

Right before the actual Confrence came to a close, I thought it would be great for Dan to join us as we wrapped up the final session and introduce him to some of my fellow IRIS friends. Well, I truly forgot about he Photo Challenge and then I heard my name called as one of the Winners in the Accessorizing Category. I was truly surprised that I won! I turned and looked at him and smiled! It happened, it finally happened. Winning any of these awards is truly an honor and a high recognition espcially since it is among your peers!

Let me introduce to you the 2008 IRIS Photo Contest Winners!

There were significant entries in all of the categories, making the choices very difficult for voters. All winners had to be present to win.

Category 1: Redesigned Living/Family Room, Lynn Smith, Interior Artistry - Pittsburgh, PA

Category 2: Staged Living/Family Room, Erica Starich, Star Interior Solutions - Highlands Ranch, CO

Category 3: Bedroom, Paula Lichtenstein, Project Redesign Pro - San Carlos, CA

Category 4: Staged Vacant Room, Melissa Marro, First Impressions Home Staging & Interior ReDesign - Charleston, SC

Category 5: Accessorizing, Irene Woodworth, One Day Redesigns & The Color And Redesign Institute - Boise, ID

Category 6: Dining Room Table Setting, Diane Palazzo, Rooms to Improve - Littleton, CO

So the next time you get discouraged and wondered if you should keep trying, please remember me and my story. To you I say today, " Don't Give Up, Keep the Faith, You Can Win!

Here is the winning Entry!

~ Have a Colorful Day!

Newly Certified Dewey Color Consultants across the USA!

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 16:12:40 -0600

Recently two Certified Dewey Color Instructors, Irene Woodworth from The Color And Redesign Institute, Boise, Idaho and Nancy Cook from One Day Décor, Davie, FL are pleased to announce the following newly Certified Dewey Color Consultants. They were recently trained prior to the National IRIS Conference in San Diego, CA.

These "Creative Risk Taking Team Players" are ready to serve you with your Color Dilemmas, Redesign or Staging projects. We are extremly proud to introduce them to you:

Alycia Freeman from FIX, San Francisco, CA
Angie Morse from Home Street Design, Tigard, OR
Bonnie Skow, Walnut Creek, CA
Carol Seagrave, Residential Transitions, Chula Vista, CA
Christina Hudon, Thomas Lynn Interiors, Coppell, TX
Jodi Aldredge, San Ramon, CA
Katey Speck, Savvy Staged Homes, Queensbury, NY
Katri Niemi, Katri's Design, Poway, CA
Linda Ausherman, Ausherman Interiors, Galt, CA,
Lisa Carr, Lisa Carr Interiors, Los Gatos, CA
Lisa McGoohan, Designing Works, Cedarburg, WI
Maria Acevez, Chauvel's Home Décor, Anaheim, CA
Nancy Schatz, At First Sight Home Staging, McLean, VA

If you need a Certified Dewey Color Consultant to help you with your color dilemmas in your homes please contact one of these Color Specialists. A Hearty Congratulations and Welcome Aboard!

This is the "World's First Validated Color Test!" One of our color tests has been featured on CareerBuilder.com To learn more you may go to: www.WeMakeColorEasy.com or the Dewey Color System www.DeweyColorSystem.com.

~ Have a Colorful Day!

Introducing Brenda Sullivan, West Richland, WA newly Certified Dewey Color Consultant!

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 17:07:17 -0600

The Color And Redesign Institute is pleased to announce that Brenda Sullivan from Redesigns by Brenda,was recently trained and certified as a Dewey Color Consultant. She is from West Richland, WA and traveled to Boise, ID for her training. As a former kindergarten teacher, Brenda was ready to pursue her creative dream of doing Color Consulting and Interior Redesigns. Her husband greatly supported her to pursue these dreams.

If you need a Certified Color Consultant in the West Richland, WA area to help you with those decorating color challenges in your homes, offices or homes for sale, contact Brenda Sullivan and she will be happy to assist you! Welcome aboard to the National We Make Color Easy Team!

For more information you may go to www.WeMakeColorEasy.com or www.ColorandRedesignInstitute.com

~Have a Colorful Day!

Color, Redesign and Active Rain Oh My!

Sat, 04 Oct 2008 00:39:40 -0500

Dear Active Rain Friends and Family,

I am coming up for air and thought I would give you all an update on me! It was absolutely crazy getting everything ready for our upcoming National IRIS Conference. We finally made our driving trip to Southern CA for our National IRIS Conference that will be held in San Diego, CA next week on Oct. 8-10th. We will also be doing the Pre-Conference Dewey Color Training so there is a lot of excitement to be training some of our fellow Redesigners and Home Staging on one of my favorite passions, Color!

We just arrived to Riverside, CA where we will spend this weekend visiting with our family. It will be great to see my brothers, all of the kids and of course, Mom! It has been two years since I have seen them. I'm sure all of the kids will be taller than their one and only Auntie! I can hardly wait to meet the family for lunch. Yippee!!

It was great to visit with Dan, my hubby on our trip. Sometimes it is just good to unplug from everyday life! We were amazed that in the middle of the desert we were able to get reception and hear the Vice-Presidential Debate over the radio yesterday evening while traveling in the middle of the desert. Isn't the technology amazing these days?

I am also honored to be doing a Break out Session at the Conference on Budget Decorating Ideas. I invited my Active Rain friends and fellow IRIS members, Jennifer Duchene from Lift Your Spirits Home Transformations, Palo Alto, CA and Renee Pratta , to do our presentations as a team. We will each bring something different to the table. Even though we live all across the country, it has been fun to be part of IRIS and share and learn together. I have really been very blessed and privileged to have met such amazing and creative people in our industry. We are all spread across the country; it will be fun finally do this together! There has been lots of planning and to think it is finally here it is exciting. We are all very unique and have our own unique gifts. It will be lots of fun and I know that we all can learn and benefit from some of these very practical and easy ideas we can do as we decorate, redesign or stage homes today.

I will also finally meet some of my fellow Redesigners and Stagers that I have met on Active Rain! It will be fun to see and talk to each other face to face, even though we speak to each other on our time in the Rain. Even though I have not been as active as I would like these days, I am thankful for the amazing friends I have made here. Depending on my schedule I will be sharing updates from the Conference. I am excited. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers that I do a great job as I present and train others. My goal is to be an encouragement to others and help others become their very best in their lives!

~Have a Colorful Day!

eWomen Network, a Refresing Networking Concept!

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 18:31:41 -0500

I had an interesting and refreshing experience in Networking the last couple of weeks through the eWomen Networkhere in Boise, ID. Their premise is to come from the position of giving to your fellow guests and members rather than the traditional hunting expedition of getting from others that so many newtorking events can lead and generate.

I received a special invitation to a "Strategic Connections" meeting by Christiane Waters the Area Director. It was a great time to meet some other Women Business Owners in our community in an intimate setting of six. We were able to meet, learn and share some ideas we had on any business challenges and also to learn how we can better help each other in our respective businesses. We had women that had a variety of backgrounds and businesses. We had an Airbonne Vice Director, A Green Event Planning Company, A Financial Planner/Dance Instructor, Web Developer and Shoe Boutique Owner and me.

I learned that we are all alike and growing, learning, being stretched during these times and most of all how much we really do need each other, too!

If you happen to live in the Boise Metro area, you might also like to check out this very special place the next time you would like to buy some very unique and special shoes. They are actually "one of a kinds" with new and older shoe designers from the east and west coast and some sprinkled in between that you will not find at the Big Box Stores. Take time to visit:

Perfect Pair - A Shoe Boutique

3210 E. Chinden Blvd.
Eagle, Idaho 83616

If you are interested in visiting the eWomenNetwork in your area for a different perspective on Networking check one out in a city near you! Please visit www.ewomennetwork.com

~Have a Colorful Day!

An Unexpected 29th Anniversary Surprise!

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 20:34:55 -0500

I had an interesting week last week. My husband and I celebrated our 29th Wedding Anniversary on September 1st! Guess what we got to do? We got to work. We had a couple people call us and one was even from Margaret Rome, one of our newer friends from Active Rain. Thank you Margaret! She called us all the way from Baltimore, MD. What a wonderful surprise and treat to hear from someone besides my Mom remembering us. I am truly coming up for air and unable to be on Active Rain very much these days...

My husband, Dan, is getting his doctoral degree and it is one deadline after another. I had to prepare for a National Teleconference on "Color for Quilters!" (I'll share about that experience on another post.) Life sure takes lots of twists and turns doesn't it? I am grateful for having the strength to get up and keep going, whether life is good or challenging. I am grateful we did not spend it in the emergency room, like we did for our 25th Wedding Anniversary. We discovered my husband had to have another surgery for kidney stones. It was the third time in our married life he experienced that painful process. He has had several near death experiences in his life. (He even wrote about them in his recently published book, called "Disappointments Transformed into Destiny.") So, I should be grateful. If it sounds like I am complaining, please forgive me. I am really trying not to. You sometimes have to look at those things and wonder, if life could be more challenging, right? Nevertheless, I am very grateful that he is alive!

Now, this doctoral project is noeasy picnic! His friends call him from across the country and tell him that it is one of the hardest challenges they have ever experienced. This was a recent comment coming from a Lt. Colonel, an Army Chaplain that has always been a high honors graduate. Now, both my husband and I have worked very hard for every grade we have received. Things have never been easy for us. However, I realize that is how rocks get polished in those tumblers and come out so pretty and shiny, right? Do you ever feel like you are thrust in a rock tumbler and no matter who you rub, you keep getting hit somehow? Or maybe it is another rough edge that needs some smoothing out. Hmmm...

We had a victory in our home; my husband received another email from his professor and mentor. He is doing his doctoral project correctly and now he is off to another chapter. Interesting thing, that my husband is growing and learning more than ever and guess what? He is now getting excited on these breakthroughs. He is doing an amazing job on this project. He now has an invitation with one of the Deans at a local university. He wants to meet my husband and see if he could be of any help to him. Funny thing is my husband wrote to several people asking for help. One answered and finally this Dean wrote to him. You just never know when and where the breakthroughs will come.

I have decided I admire my husband more and more every day. I did some edits for him and had to pull out a dictionary to understand some of the terms. Nevertheless, I was amazed at what he is discovering and learning through this process. He wants to help Emerging Adults (18 to 30 years old). He wants to make a difference in our community. The tenacity he has and not giving up, although sometimes it was unbearable for him. He now is getting excited. So, I guess I am sharing this, because there is no Anniversary Gift you can receive than to know the one you fell in love a while ago is getting those breakthroughs and is starting to actually enjoy this process. His professor is even getting excited that he is on to perhaps one of the greatest projects done in their community. I don't think you can put a price tag on that. Do you? So the point of all of this...Don't give up. Life does not always turn out the way you think, but it sure is an adventure, don't you think?

~Have a Colorful Day!

Run: Whether You are a Lion or a Gazelle!

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:11:30 -0500

Dear All,

There are some people that you meet that you just never forget. They stay with you. The more you get to know them, the more special and inspirational they are for your to do greater things. I am very pleased to announce one of those people to you. He is our family friend, business coach and amazing Motivational Speaker, Dr. Vincent Kituku. He will be the guest speaker this week at the EWomen Network Luncheon and Netorking Event here in Boise, ID.

I can tell you first hand he is the real deal! I just enjoy his perspective from his native country of South Africa. He is so intriguing and his perspectives are so refreshing to learn how Americans do not utilize and realize how truly blessed they are in this country. When you ask him how he is, he answers, " I am blessed!" No matter if the times are good or bad. That is why I think his topic is so perfect for our times and businesses. You will always be glad you heard him speak to you in very practical terms and insights.

His topic is titled: Run: Whether You are a Lion or a Gazelle!

The economy has gone south. The demands from your family are increasingly overwhelming. Your desire to grow professionally or to create a profitable business has met unexpected challenges. That's why you need the strategies to not only survive but also thrive! The wise have said that, "... It doesn't matter whether you are a lion or a gazelle; when the sun comes up, you'd better be running."

At this powerful event you'll learn:

Five reasons why and how not to fail in what you do.
How to market your services/products with a zero or shoestring budget.
How to re-energize your fulfillment in uncertain times.

Dr. Vincent Kituku Dr. Vincent Muli Kituku, author of Overcoming Buffaloes at Work & in Life, works with organizations and individuals to increase productivity, focus and motivation. People from all backgrounds agree that words cannot describe Vincent. He must be experienced! His ability to captivate audiences with content, interaction and entertainment has made him a sought after speaker and presenter for key organizations. He represents one of fewer than 7% of speakers to earn the coveted Certified Speaking Professional recognition, the highest designation presented by the National Speakers Association. He has been the motivational speaker for the BSU Broncos Football Team since 1998.

This event is facilitated by eWomenNetwork.

Date Thursday, September 11, 2008
Time 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM (Doors open and informal networking begins at 11:00 AM)
Location At the Waterfront Events & Catering
3250 N. Lakeharbor Lane
Boise, ID 83703

Register online by clicking here now!
Or you may Register by phone by calling (208) 629-4932
Email contact: christianewaters@eWomenNetwork.com

~Have a Colorful Day!

Decorate Fabulously Workshop!

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:45:49 -0500

One Day Redesigns and The Color And Redesign Institute is pleased to announce that Irene Woodworth is the first National and Local Dish on Design Instructor. She has a professional partnership with the Assistant Product Group. Click here to see our recent press release in the Valley Times.

Homeowners and Do-it-Yourselfers need our help!

Did you know the following facts about Homeowners....?

In 2006, an estimated 168.7 billion dollars was spent by homeowners on home improvements, according to the Remodeling Activity Indicator (RAI) devised by Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies.
85% of purchase decisions are made by women.
Women typically shop with an unorganized plastic bag of samples which include paint chips, carpet samples, fabric swatches, etc.
Although many will hire a designer or decorator, a majority will ultimately make decisions and purchases for their home on their own.
Many homeowners are either intimidated by designers and decorators or believe that they cannot afford them.
Homeowners look for Decorating information and ideas from many sources such as Design shows featured on HGTV, magazines such as House Beautiful, Better Homes and Gardens and the Internet.
Women enjoy opportunities to learn, especially if it is a fun and relaxing group atmosphere among friends and peers. They love a "Girls Day Out!"

This workshop will provide participants the key principles of decorating including:

How to find inspiration, evaluate your space and choose color schemes
Explore the 9 Major Decorating styles and discover your personal style
Investigate the endless possibilities for your floors, walls and ceilings
Learn about furniture styles, construction and best uses in a room
Develop creative ideas for fabric, windows, lighting and accessories
Save time and money to avoid costly mistakes in your decorating projects
Receive the Decorating Assistant® planner and organizer and stylish carry bag

Who can benefit? Homeowners who are passionate about decorating (or baffled by decorating), building or remodeling a home, looking for design tips, or just need a "Girl's Day Out!"

Help us spread the word. If you have any clients, friends or family in the Boise Metro/Treasure Valley areas please let them know. Click here for more Workshop Information

~Have a Colorful Day!

Friendly Reminder for Color Training in San Diego!

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:10:05 -0500

Dear Redesigners, Stagers and Decorators,

We wanted to give a Friendly Reminder to those interested in getting trained in Color with the Dewey We Make Color Easy Program. We will be doing a Pre-IRIS Conference We Make Color Easy Course on Monday, October 6th and Tuesday, October 7th, 2008 in beautiful San Diego, CA. The theme for the 9th Annual IRIS Conference will be "Riding The Wave To Success!" We have opened up our course to all to attend. (Click here for more IRIS Annual Conference info.)

We are extending our Registration Deadline to Friday, Sept. 5th, 2008. You may click here to see the flier and information for your Registration.

Here's what our students are saying:

"Loved, loved the class! Having a system to use to pick color is a dream. No more worrying that the client hates the color. Seeing the Color choosers contemplating which color to keep and which to discard is a fascinating process. I think the money spent was well worth the effort and now we have a doorway to enter so many more places to bring alive with COLOR!

I am very excited! We have already learned so much about our clients and ourselves by employing this color method. I love all of the handy stuff on the WeMakeColorEasy.com website, too. You have a great team. It was great to meet Chris and Dan in person."

Jennifer Duchene, Homes Redefined
Western Region - Member-at-Large, IRIS Board

"Thank you so much for the Dewey Color Consultant training. After my eyes stopped spinning in my head, I realized that the process of the color consultation is fairly easy based on the steps outlined in the class. You and your staff did a wonderful job of taking us through a very intense Learning Curve. That was a lot of information to absorb in two days, but you made it work.

Again, I send you my heartfelt appreciation for your talent and enthusiasm. I feel as though ‘Lift Your Spirits Home Transformations' has a wonderful secret weapon to help our clients."

Gina Carroll, Lift Your Spirits Home Transformations

What will you learn?

Day One Course - Dewey Color Coordinator

You will learn how to evaluate existing colors and select colors that reflect and inspire your client. Hands-on problem-solving exercises will give you the ability to create by-room, no-mistake color pallets that express how, when and where to best combine hues and undertones. After taking this training, you'll quickly be able to identify the hue and undertone of each color, plus how color influences mood. We'll show you how to select from 25,000 no-mistake color combinations.

Day One Topics Include:

The Science behind our reaction to color
How to Spot Color Undertones
The Rules of Combining Colors
Safe Wall Colors & How to Use Them
How to Coordinate Colors
Color & Your Mood

Day Two Course (Includes Day One Course) - Certified Dewey Color Consultant

The two-day course is for those enrollees who wish to become certified as a Dewey Color Consultant (DCC). As a design professional, earning certification as a Certified Dewey Color Consultant (DCC) validates your experience in the eyes of your clients and teaches you time-saving techniques that will result in completely satisfied clients.

Day Two Topics Include:

Being a Dewey Color Consultant
Keeping Clients On-Track
Color Beyond the Basics
Room Tour Exercise
How to Maximize WMCE Referrals
How to get them talking about YOU

In addition to topics covered in the One-Day Course, the Two-Day Course teaches how to maximize your time while consulting with your clients about color, get support and receive referrals though your We Make Color Easy website listing. The proven Dewey Consultant process takes away the fear that clients have about color and ensures that each client visit will result in a passionate, by-room color palette approval.

We hope you can join us. You will be glad you did!

~Have a Colorful Day!

Eagle Rib Cook Off, The World Series of Barbeque!

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 12:42:15 -0500

I I wanted to share with you an AWESOME opportunity to come to Eagle, ID and taste a LOT of great rib cookin'. There are various restaurants and vendors that will be competing in this Big Rib Cook-off. It is always fun to see these competitions on the Cooking Channels and extra fun when you see them in person. The variety of recipes, chefs and styles is always interesting to see and experience, too!

If you are "rediscovering your back yard and neighborhood" and not going out of town. Then check out this website: www.idahoribs.com August 30, 31, & Sept 1st. Free admission with donation of non-perishable food item, benefiting the Idaho Food Bank! $2.00 General Admission / Kids 12 and Under Free!

The website explains the events and provides map to get to the park in Eagle. If you've been watching HSN & QVC you know Christmas is RIGHT around the corner and lots of vendors to buy some early gifts.

Here is the schedule to come and have some old fashioned family fun in Eagle, ID

Saturday, August 30th:

6:15 am - Hot Air Balloon Setup

6:30 am - Hot Air Balloon Launch

12:00 pm - Ribbon Cutting/Event Opens

12:00 pm - Beer Garden Opens

12:00 to 1:15 pm- Band, Auto Pilot

2:00 to 4:00 pm - Band, Moto Kitty

4:30 to 6:00 pm - Band, Dan Costello

7:00 to 9:00 pm - Band, Andy Byron and the Lost River Band

9:30 pm - Beer Garden Closes

9:45 to 10:00 pm - Event Closes

Sunday, August 31st:

11:00 am - Event Opens

12:00 pm - Beer Garden Opens

12:00 to 1:15 pm- Band, Auto Pilot

2:00 to 4:00 pm - Band, Moto Kitty

6:00 pm - KCBS Potato Dish Turn In

7:00 to 9:00 pm - Band, Andy Byron and the Lost River Band

9:30 pm - Beer Garden Closes

9:45 to 10:00 pm - Event Closes

Monday, September 1st

11:00 am - Event Opens

12:00 pm - Beer Garden Opens

12:00 to 1:30 - KCBS Competition

4:30 pm - KCBS Winners Announced

5:30 pm - Beer Garden Closes

6:00 pm - Event Ends

Don't Quit!

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:33:38 -0500

Last week we attended the Women's Council of Realtors, Capital City Chapter for their monthly Breakfast meeting at the Owyhee Plaza in downtown Boise, Idaho. It was great to visit since I have been very busy and not able to attend for a while. It was wonderful to reconnect and see some of my friends and Real Estate Professionals from the Treasure Valley.

I was especially impressed with Kori Merlino, a Keller Williams Agent, as she shared the Inspiration for the meeting. She shared that since joining Women's Council of Realtors a few years ago she has developed friendships and learned skills to become a better Real Estate Professional. Then she shared these words from a poem that she had memorized.

"Don't Quit"

When things go wrong as they sometimes will.

When the road you're trudging seems all uphill.

When funds are low and the debts are high.

And you want to smile, but you have to sigh.

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest, if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns.

As each of us sometimes learns.

And many a person turns about,

When he might have won had he stuck it out.

Don't give up though the pace seems slow,

You may succeed with another goal.

Often the struggler has given up,

When he might have captured the victor's cup.

And he learned too late when the night came down,

How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -

It's when things seem worst that you Must Not Quit!

She has given me permission to share this with you. I asked her what the story was behind this poem. It was interesting to me that her Mother had taped it to the bathroom door and she would see it everyday growing up. I think she had a very smart Mother to instill this message about perseverance in her children.

Life is full of challenges. I told her I thought it would be encouraging for my students and various people to hear this poem. This truly is a timely message that we can all benefit in hearing over and over again.

So remember, the next time you get discouraged and you are not sure if you can go on, read this to keep the faith and "Don't you Quit!"

~Have a Colorful Day!

Newly Certified Color Consultants ready to serve Meridian and Star, Idaho!

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:02:35 -0500

Irene Woodworth, DCI and Director of The Color and Redesign Institute are pleased to announce our recently trained and certified Dewey Color Consultants in Idaho. They are Patti Walker from Meridian and Michelle Lackman from Star. They are a mother and daughter team that specialize in vacant home staging through their business called "360 House Stagers." They both have interesting backgrounds. These "down to earth" ladies are a wonderful and delightful team. They are eager to help homeowners with their color challenges especially in Meridian and Star, Idaho. We are very proud and pleased to announce them both to you! They are ready to color our world!

Home Stagers, Interior Redesigners and anyone that is passionate about color can especially benefit from this training. Every paint manufacturing company has at least 3,500 different colors in their palettes and add new colors every year. If you are going to stage a home and do a Color Consultation sometimes the correct color can make a world of difference! You may think that you will select a neutral white or off white color. Which color will you choose? There are several considerations that will affect your color choices.

Here are some questions to consider:

What is the direction of the home and what kind of lighting does it get?
What is the use of the room?
Are there any architectural features you need to highlight or minimize in the room?
Do you need to do a Color Blend or do you need to do an accent wall to highlight the architecture?
Where do you start and stop color in great rooms?

These are just a few of the things you will learn as you do your We Make Color Easy Consultations. Many have told me that it really helped their self confidence to give the correct advice to their clients. To learn more about the We Make Color Easy Course go to www.WeMakeColorEasy.com

~Have a Colorful Day!

My Personal Design Challenge!

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:20:07 -0500

One of our favorite shows to watch on the weekends has been HGTV's Design Star. I was glad to see that one of the last challenges was to redo a room for a family member. It was a very welcoming and refreshing break just to have time for the contestants to see their families. And the fact that they were able to do something for their families was really the icing on the cake with their $10,000.00.

It reminded me of my first paid design job. It was for my parents. I started out as an Interior Design and Art Major. I did well, but I needed a break from living at home. I also thought pursuing a degree in education would serve me better later on since my Father thought it would be more practical and give me more opportunities. However, I did not have any money to go away to school. I applied to a private college in Los Angeles and got accepted. What was I going to do to pay for college? My parents made me an offer that I could not refuse. The previous year they had just purchased a new home. They both worked and they were not able to really work on decorating their home. My Dad told me that if I decorated it and got their new home just like my Mom wanted that he would pay for my tuition, room and board for the first semester of college. I would have to figure out how to pay for the subsequent semesters. My parents sat me down and told me that they really felt I had a gift in decorating and they really liked all of the decorating I had done. They felt I could help them get this home finally finished. The one stipulation was it had to be done the way my Mom wanted it done. Not a problem, since I viewed both parents as my clients. My Dad told me there was a limited budget to get the supplies. I took on my own Design Challenge without thinking twice! This was in the early 70's so all the trends were with the harvest and fall colors. Avocado green, harvest gold and oranges were all the rage then. I worked on my parents' four bedroom, two bath, and 1,800 square foot home for two and a half months solid to complete this amazing decorating project.

I first spent time interviewing my Mom and found out what she wanted. She was very particular on some items and the rest she left up to me to be creative. I learned all kinds of skills with this project. We did not have Internet back then, so I had to rely on various home department stores to figure some of this stuff out. I also had to read books to figure other things out on my own. I have always been a visual learner and some things I just learned by trial and error. I had done quite a bit of painting throughout my life as I assisted my Mom and Grandmother on various decorating projects. I also learned how to cut and install paneling that I installed in the family room and the bar area for my Dad. Most of the colors were very warm golden tones. I painted the formal dining room a burnt orange, rust color. I decided it would be more interesting to do something different with mirrors to show off the very unique wrought iron custom painted chandelier that we found. It really highlighted this formal dining room and their beautiful dining room set. It had a vaulted ceiling and I made a design to install these beveled mirror strips vertically on part of the dining room accent wall that followed the ceiling line. I wanted to do this instead of a typical mirror on the wall above the formal dining room table. I learned that you have to use special glue and special nails to secure mirrored strips to the wall.

Believe it or not, but my Mom wanted to use the acrylic paintings I had done for my painting class in the living and dining rooms. That was something else! I made those pieces earlier, not knowing they would match her décor, color scheme and transitional style. When we learned about Vincent Van Gogh's art, I painted the very thick paint on a field of fall trees. That was fun. We had moved away so since I did not know many people, I put all of my efforts into my studies and excelled. I made the Dean's List since most of my time was spent working on my projects. I did not know all of my art projects would come in handy in decorating my parent's home!

One of my brothers wanted a tropical island theme since he was able to go Hawaii with our church youth group. So, I followed his lead with his tropical gold and avocado green and brown color scheme. It was fun. He had some old furniture that I also painted and even antiqued a few pieces. He loved that I was able to customize some of those old wooden pieces to match his style and décor.

My youngest brother was only six years old at the time. He loved Charlie Brown and especially, Snoopy the Dog character. This was the only room in the house that I used a wallpaper border. I have never been a big fan of wallpaper. Once, you remove it, you learn you can do so much more with paint and various painting techniques. I painted the bottom of the chair rail blue and the top part above the Peanuts border a beautiful vibrant red color. Of course I also made some curtains for his room. We were able to find some cool Peanuts themed bedding for his room. He also needed some new furniture. We found some newer furniture for him that would last a while for this very active little brother.

(I wish I could share the best pictures of their home. My Mom has the best pictures in California. Unfortunately, I was only able to find a couple of pictures of the back yard of our home right before my Dad went on a motorcycle trip with his friend. It was during my birthday weekend. You can see the outside of our home right before my Dad went on his trip in the other picture.)

I got their home done a week before I was to leave for college. My Dad paid me and I was able to use it for that first semester. I put my heart and soul into that home. I wanted to make sure that it was done right and really reflected my parents taste. I worked some very long hours to get that project done. It was not just about the money, it was very important that they would enjoy it and it reflected their personalities not mine.

Being the older sister, I also had to be the supervisor for my little brothers while my Mom and Dad were working. My brothers were pretty good, but sometimes it was challenging to do that, cook dinner and get this massive project done in time. My favorite parts were when I was able to do the Big Reveal and the progress I had done for my Mom when she came home from work. She loved it and she was truly the ideal client. She knew what she wanted and some things she just left it up to me. I learned the importance of asking lots of questions. I never made any major decisions until I got approval from her on them. It was the beginning of my interior design formal "paid career". I was eighteen years old and I finished a couple months later shortly after I turned the ripe old age of nineteen years of age! It was so rewarding to know that I could do something meaningful for my parents, especially for my Mom. She worked very hard. This was their first new home they had ever owned!

Why was this experience so special for me?

There were lots of long hours of hard and honest work.
It was great to see what I had done.
It was an opportunity to do something I loved doing.
And it was the knowledge I could really make a difference in other people's homes and lives.
It was a dream comes true for me.
That wonderful feeling that I could change the personal space and enrich people's lives has always been really rewarding for me.

So, when I saw how great those Design Star finalists felt when they finished that project for their family members, it brought tears of joy to my eyes. Because, I really knew how great it felt from my personal experience. It has truly been one of the highlights of my life and I will never forget it!

Have a Colorful Day!

Boise, ID Home Becomes "The Neighborhood Crown Jewel!"

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:37:23 -0500

Throughout my life I have been passionate about Color! It has been fascinating to see how people react to color so differently. It can sometimes give us energy or deplete us of our energy. Color is so powerful!

One Day Redesigns offers homeowners personalized Certified Dewey Color Consultations. It is one of my favorite things that I do. It is very rewarding to make such an impact on homeowners with dramatic Color changes!

Recently, I was asked to speak for PERSI, the Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho. A week later, one of their employees called me about doing an Exterior Color Consultation for her home. She said she was unable to attend my presentation, but heard rave reviews from her co-workers.

They planned on using a new vinyl coating technique on the exterior of their home because it would last a lifetime. It was critical to make the correct color choice because of the cost and longevity of this treatment. She and her husband were afraid of making a costly color mistake.

When I met them for the first time at their Color Consultation, I asked them how long they had been struggling with this color challenge. They said "S i x L o n g M o n t h s !" They told me they were empty-nesters, always helping everyone else and this was the first time they were able to work on their own home. I told them I understood because throughout my life I was used to taking care of everyone else's needs before my own. We laughed at how long it takes people like us to do something for ourselves.

They were very excited to have their We Make Color Easy personality test to determine their new exterior colors for their home. We discovered they both liked the golden warmer tones according to their results. They were very eager to get started on their update!

Their home was vinyl coated with their new color palette. It started a whole new revolution of changes for their home. The overgrown landscaping was replaced with trees, shrubs and flowers to match their new warmer colors. They also installed an outdoor kitchen, in their backyard, for entertaining their friends and families.

Their home is now the "Crown Jewel" of the neighborhood. They have told us that people come by frequently to see their home in this quiet neighborhood. They just love how much their home and life has improved!

What do you think about their update and new Colors?

An Idahoan's View of Downtown Denver, CO!

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:36:34 -0500

We recently visited Denver, CO and saw parts of the city. We had only flown through Denver, but we wanted to take some time to see the city even. As Realtors, Home Stagers and professionals it is good to make time to visit a city for at least one extra day even though you may go for business. I am always intrigued on the various architecture and the downtown of cities we visit.

From my viewpoint, Denver looked pretty progressive and mixed the old and new architecture in a very unique way. I had never seen such variety in the city building architecture like Denver, CO! We saw a big Blue Bear sculpture that kept trying to get into the Denver Convention Center, but nobody let him in!

We also saw the Denver Art Museum and had never seen such an angled varied building that overhung on the streets of downtown. It was a very unique angled building inside and outside. How did they do that? It was a treat to see "The Impressionist" series that was being displayed. Some of my favoirte artists like Monet and Renoir were featured. Talk about knowing and using color to depict moods and feeling through their various art pieces. It is true what they say, nothing like seeing it in person! Wow! I enjoyed studying the Impressionist era in college but it was very interesting and delightful to the senses up close and personal!

If you ever get a chance to visit a unique city, you need to go to Denver, CO! It made me want to take go back and have more time to really explore the city. It looked so interesting and intriguing! From my view it is in the center of the United States and will be an interesting and stimulating city to view.