What do I have?

One of the best pieces of advice I ever heard was from Rachel Ray.  She was talking about creating an inviting kitchen space where you want to gather and create.  She said that you don't even have to do a kitchen remodel, just use what you already have.  Do you have fancy appliances like a blender or coffeemaker?  What about hanging your knives on a magnetic holder?  Can you display spices on the wall?

Reusing what you already have can be extremely cathartic.  Instead of buying something new, look around and see what is already in your home that you can use.  At some point that fabric, wallpaper, lamp or other household item spoke to you enough that you allowed it into your home. 

Ask yourself this.  What about this item caught my attention?  Was it the color?  Style?  Shape?  Fragrance?  Close your eyes and remember when you bought it.  Do you remember the excitement when it became yours?

Does that same element still speak to you today?  If not, it's time to edit it out.  Maybe you bought something when you were much younger but now you are no longer that person.  (If you have kids, you know that at some point they want their rooms redecorated.  You grow too!  What was once important then may not be important now).

The fun begins when you start to think about how to tap into that items element that originally drew you to it.  Maybe the teapots you bought should be put on display instead of in the cupboards?  Can you seasonally rotate items on a shelf?

Tap into the creative you.  Imagine your dream space and use what you have that inspires you. 

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