"The Blues is Life."

~ Brownie McGhee

"Winter blues": a term commonly referred to these days as "seasonal affective disorder," affects millions of people who otherwise spend the rest of the year in a relatively healthy mental state. It is a syndrome mainly associated with the winter months and the accompanying emotional malaise that results from the proper lack of exposure to sunlight. I confess to a profound susceptibility to the winter doldrums myself, at times feeling compelled to jump out of a first floor window.

But I digress...

Although the color blue has commonly been associated with sadness and a sense of hopelessness, one should also be reminded that it also serves as a metaphor for creativity, wisdom, heaven and optimism for the future. 

 

Chiffonier Noir et Cuir on sale. To the trade
http://www.cotefrance.com/

 Regarding the psychology of the color blue in interior design, it is considered a clean and relaxing hue; great for bathrooms and bedrooms alike as well as for children's spaces. Blues tend to radiate an overall calming influence conducive to inspiring study and higher work production. It is also a color generally favored by both sexes as it inspires a feeling of serenity. In fact, blue has been documented to lower the heart and body temperature rate.

I've noticed that one of my most popular posts is "Who Doesn't Love a Sale?" What better incentive to leave those those blues outdoors whilst releasing a few endorphins and shopping a great sale?  I will be happy to keep you informed of any exciting home design or floor sample sales that fall within my radar.

Currently, here are a few of my favorite on-sale picks...in blue of course. They are sure to chase away some of those nasty 'ole winter blahs.  Bring on the blues... 



Block print bolster. Sale: $138.75
http://www.gracioushome.com/



Wallpaper. Sale: $69.95
http://www.anthropologie.com/

  



Raccan Ottoman
To the trade
http://www.profiles.com/

 

Commode with folding doors
http://www.niermannweeks.com/



Tufted ottoman. Sale: $174.95

http://www.jossandmain.com/





Large cobalt Blenko glass vase.
Sale: $300
http://www.1stdibs.com/

 

Duvet cover. Sale: $29.99

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/

 

Mesh back eco-friendly computor chair.
Sale: $89.99
http://www.bizchair.com/



Pillow. Sale: $55.95
http://www.jossandmain.com/



Fez canister. Sale: $30
http://www.berbertrading.com/

 

Recycled glass tiles
10% off
http://www.susanjablon.com/

Burst 5' x 8' rug. Sale: $161
http://www.fab.com/





Mahalo Painted Economy Ukulele.
Sale: $21.99
http://www.amazon.com/



"My blues are so simple, but so few people can play it right"

~ Muddy Waters



If you need help designing your space in blue or otherwise, do not hesitate to contact me as I can save you time doing research. I will work with your style and budget in order to create a beautiful and harmonious environment just for you. I have access to the trade showrooms and have knowledge of a wide range of resources both in the US and abroad. I will be happy to give you an additional 20% off of my trade discount when applicable.



I invite you to contact me with any questions you may have regarding any of these items.















 



I Don't Think so...

Warning: If there is anyone out there who even remotely admires this atrociously gaudy Valentine-inspired chair, stop, drop and roll and contact me immediately! A free one hour session of intensive design therapy focusing on embracing and not fearing the tasteful will be offered to you. This sesssion will include a complimentary detoxification which in turn will successfully lead to permanent rehabilitation from any such future inclinations towards the tacky.

I will be more than happy to arrange a yard sale for you as well.

Oh, and there is a matching bench....but that will cost you extra.

OK, I'll stop.

HAVE A TASTEFULLY MOD VALENTINE'S DAY!

Sustainable Love

When I was thinking about what to write for my Valentine's Day post I couldn't help but be reminded of the day's status as a Hallmark holiday; created solely for commercial purposes rather than for any deeper significance. It's not that I haven't enjoyed my share of the typical celebratory indulgences that accompany the Day. In fact, I have no problem with red roses, chocolate truffles, and receiving a nice piece of bling now and then. Additionally, I see no reason not to enjoy a nice glass of extra Brut champagne and dinner at a romantic restaurant.

Acacia Heart Bowl, $18
http://www.serrv.org/



But nowadays, as a recovering hedonist, age and the economy seems to have brought about a change in my overall outlook regarding the blatant commercialism of so many such modern day contrivances.  The plethora of visually tacky reminders in the form of store displays that accost us for weeks preceding Valentine's Day seem to burst the bubble of any genuine romantic inclinations that may have come naturally.

How the origin of the the discovery of the concept of romance progressed from a day created to honor a martyred saint is curious. But as it did eventually evolve into one commemorating love during the Middle Ages, it begins to stand apart as something purer and and more meaningful



Beeswax Heart Pillar Candle
$16.95
http://www.planetonegifts.com/

This scenario of searching for the real meaning of a Hallmark holiday brings to mind Linus' explanation to Charlie Brown about the real meaning of Christmas as it does the Grinch's famous epiphany that "Maybe Christmas...doesn't come from a store..."



The good news is that Valentine's Day is very good for the economy and that this year more than half of US consumers will be spending money on Valentines day gifts, up over 10% over last year. So in honor of this Hallmark holiday,  hope for a restored economy and the celebration of love, I have come across some sustainable and socially conscious Valentines gifts that are unique and affordable not to mention good for the soul.

Pictured at the top of the page: Soapstone from Kenya

The Fatrine Self Help Group soapstone artisans are located in Kenya. They produce custom made, beautiful soap stone carvings such as bowls and plates for local and export markets. They provide work for about 15 families, many widows suffering from HIV and AIDS. One goal is to eradicate poverty in the surrounding community and for each member to be able to have health insurance.

http://www.giftsoflife.org/



Fair Trade Felt Flowers, $8
http://www.globalgoodspartners.org/

 



Sweetheart Gift Box of chocolates,
$22
http://www.serrv.org/



Stone Hearts Set: Hearts for Haiti
 $14
http://www.globalgoodspartners.org/



Valentine Dog Toy, $12.50
http://www.olivegreendog.com/



Red Rose Cushion
http://www.starfishfairtrade.co.uk/



Gorgeous Goat
 http://www.bynature.co.uk/

•In Sudan and Bangladesh, a goat can be a lifesaver, providing enough milk to keep the whole family healthy. Goats can also be bred and sold, allowing poor parents to generate the income they need to pay for education and vital medicines for their children.



"The One"
Ethically sourced flowers
http://www.arenaflowers.com/

                                    All you need is love.

All you need is love.

All you need is love, love.

Love is all you need.

~ The Beatles 



HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY