Greetings!
What are the simple things in life that bring you pleasure? I recently attended two talks at the "Spring Thing" event held at the Dallas Decorative Center. Both of these talks were about creating simplicity and small pleasures or Zen experiences in our every day lives.
The first was on "The Zen of Organizing". I am now absolutely convinced I can do anything with the right perspective. Looking at the result of being organized as a Zen experience was the motivation I needed to organize my office. Clearing out the clutter and creating a system to keep it organized resulted in an explosion of creative energy and beautiful designs for my clients.
The second talk that day was by Houston designer, Bill Stubbs, the entertaining host of a fabulous new PBS series called "Moment of Luxury". Stubbs travels around the world, experiencing the best historical architecture, style and traditions and shows viewers how to bring these "moments of luxury" into their own lives.
The message I got from these talks is that it is not only what we do but how we do it that brings more joy, moment by moment into our daily lives. When we look for the wonder and beauty in the every day things around us, we invite more of it to appreciate. Read the articles below for more about these two venues for adding simple pleasures to your daily life. If you would like help with creating beauty and comfort in your life, just let me know. That is what I love to do!
Sincerely and "Simply" Yours,
P.S. My new website is now completed, so check it out here!
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 Regina Leeds, known as the "Zen Organizer", has helped many get organized. She has a very Zen-like style; I felt calmed yet energized just listening to her talk about her favorite organizing tools. She recommended our very own Container Store because when you need more of a product later it will still be there regardless of the season. Regina believes as I do, that using uniform containers and items like clothes hangers to help reduce "visual chaos". She says functionality is enhanced by labeling just about everything (I love my P-Touch) and it allows others you live and work with to find what they need easily. The Zen Organizer's Magic Formula for every project is: 1) Eliminate what you don't need or use; 2) Categorize; 3) Organize according to how you function. Sounds easy. After de-cluttering, the key is to create workable systems that will support your individual lifestyle and be easy to maintain. Aesthetics are another key element. The final result, of course, should be beautiful. Other helpful books by Regina Leeds: "Creating a Place Without Losing Your Space: a Couples Guide to Blending Homes, Lives and Clutter"
"One Year to an Organized Life"
For more information on the "Zen Organizer" click here.
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A Moment of Luxury by William Stubbs
 I admit I am not a big fan of most television design shows, but "Moment of Luxury" is an exception. The host, Bill Stubbs is a very entertaining, world-class designer. This delightful show is getting high ratings and airs on PBS across the country except in Dallas, oddly enough.
What I love about this show is that it educates and inspires creativity and passion. Bill takes the viewers around the globe to luxurious locations, talks about the history, points out the luxurious details in places like the St. James Hotel in Paris and the Stafford Hotel in London and has on-site discussions with top experts. Then he shows how to create similar "moments of luxury" back in your own home.
Bill reminds us that "luxury is not about wealth or status but discovering the beauty around you, whether it's enjoying a lush garden or a simple cup of tea". One of his guests, who shares her Japanese garden and teahouse in New England, describes luxury as the feeling of plentitude. It's about creating an experience with imagination and can be accomplished using things you already have. It's about finding your passion, stopping to smell the roses and increasing one's appreciation for life. Whatever your passion or hobby, if you are enjoying it and sharing it with others, you are experiencing your own "moments of luxury".
To learn more or watch the shows, click here.
If you would like help creating luxury in your own life, give me a call. That is what I love to do- click here.
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Dona Rosene Interiors
From new construction to remodeling, from commercial to residential- Dona has successfully worked with all design styles and budgets for the past 20 years. She guides clients through the creative design process, manages construction, finish & furniture selections and installation.
Dona is a Texas state-licensed Interior Designer and has been a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers since 1986.
Call for your appointment today. 214-349-9769 |
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Announcing New Website
I invite you to visit the new updated website for more helpful design information. Special thanks to
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Paris Map File Folders
I love these tres chic file folders that I discovered thanks to "The Zen Organizer". They are from the online retailer of stylish office supplies, See Jane Work . Kudos to Holly Bohn, the founder for elevating style and expanding our choices! |
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Salade Niçoise
2 sm potatoes,boiled
16 green beans
4 cups mixed baby lettuce
14 oz canned light tuna in olive oil
2 tomatoes
¼ red onion-cut into 1/4-inch rings
2 eggs, hard boiled, peeled and quartered
1 c. roasted bell peppers- cut into strips
16 black olives (Niçoise are ideal)
DRESSING
3 Tbl. olive oil
1 1/2 Tbl. red or white wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced and roasted
½ tsp. Dijon mustard
½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. black pepper
STEAM potatoes (8-10 min), add beans last 5 min, then set aside to cool. ARRANGE lettuce, potatoes, beans, tuna, tomatoes, onion, eggs, peppers, and olives on a serving platter.
SHAKE dressing ingredients in small jar with lid. POUR over the salad to serve.
For a more OPPULENT experience, use fresh grilled ahi tuna.
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