Tomboy Tools

Sometimes organizing isn't just about being able to find things. Sometimes it's about feeling good in your space so you actually want to get some work done.  When I go to work first thing in the morning and it's a mess I don't even want to be there.  It has nothing to do with how much work I have, or if I'm tired, or as my husband would say "cranky," it's how the space just overwhelms you when it's not organized.

Organizing your space can make a huge difference in the amount of work you get done during the day, for one, because you spend less time looking for things, and two because you will feel more comfortable, less stressed, and happier there.  Simply by taking a few moments at the end of the day to clear up your desk, file some papers, and make a "to-do" list for the next day, will start you off in a much better mood and you will actually get more work done.

             Tea house of the August moon 

By Pam Faulkner Faulkner House Interior Redesign  

You've had the standard summer get-together and now it's time for something different. The title, suggested by an old movie, serves as the inspiration for a party built around pan-Asian appetizers, a small tasting of dishes.  A tea ceremony involves precise, time honored rituals.  This party is all about casual dining and conversation.

Consult the menu of your favorite take-out restaurant.  Some appetizers are relatively simple to prepare yourself or you can purchase frozen and ready to cook.  Ask guests to bring an appetizer from their favorite restaurant.  Assemble serving plates and platters at least an hour in advance. Be sure to identify the dishes to help guests who may have food allergies.

Fall is a great time of year to make sure your home is ready for the cold winter months.  Use this checklist to make sure your home is safe and secure both inside and out.

• Get your mind in the gutters. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts.
• Button up your overcoat. Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with weather-stripping and caulk.
• Get on top of roof problems. Inspect your roof for damaged or curled shingles, corroded flashing, or leaky vents.
• Walks the walks (and drives). Take steps to repair damaged sidewalks, driveways, and steps.
• Chill out. Drain and winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems.
• Freshen your filter. Clean or replace dirty furnace filters.
• Give your furnace a physical. Have a professional inspect your heating system.
• Gather round the hearth. Check fireplaces for soot or creosote build-up. Better yet, schedule a visit from a reputable chimney sweep.
• Keep the humidifier humming. Clean the plates or pads to ensure efficient operation.
• Head-off gas problems. If you have a gas-fired room heater, have it inspected by a pro. Also, perform any routine maintenance recommended by the maker.
• Keep the wood fires burning brightly. Wood stoves are making a comeback. To avoid a deadly situation, be sure to inspect yours before firing it up.
• Keep your family safe at home. A home safety check should be an annual ritual in every household. Test smoke and CO monitors, inspect (or install) fire extinguishers, review fire escape plans, and rid your home of old newspapers and other fire hazards.