Home Trends for Spring 2010!

With Spring fast-approaching, many people are starting to think about revamping their home. Below are a few trends I've been noticing in today's homes. Perhaps they'll inspire you as well!

"Green" decor. Eco-friendly is in! People are more and more interested in filling their home with not only beautiful pieces, but items that are earth-friendly as well. Check out www.VivaTerra.com for stylish "green" furniture. One of my favorites? The railroad tie coffee table for $598.

Beautiful and Functional. People are discovering that more stuff does not equate to more happiness. Therefore, many people are aiming to simplify their lives and homes and turning to pieces that are simultaneously beautiful and useful. Check out Ballard Designs castered tufted storage ottoman. It's attractive and functional and comes in countless fabric options to meet everyone's taste!

Happy (almost) Spring : )

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FREE tickets to the Architectural Digest Home Show in NYC!

Want FREE tickets to this year's Architectural Digest Home Design Show on Pier 94 in NYC compliments of Cailen Ascher Design?!

Visit https://www.microspec.com/tix123/etic.cfm?code=ARCH2010&disc=EXHIBITOR and enter the code "EXHIBITOR".

For general home show information, visit http://www.archdigesthomeshow.com. Also, I'll be offering FREE design consultations at the show all weekend long.

Hope to see you there!

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Find Happiness : )

Below are some simple tips to find happiness in every day moments.

1. Smile. The old saying of "fake it til you make it" holds true with happiness as well. When things are getting you down, put a smile on your face and feel the effects spread throughout your body. If you need a little help, turn to your favorite sitcom or youtube video for help!

2. Be present. Live in the moment. So much of our time is spent dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Strive to be present and aware as you move throughout your day and you'll undoubted find happiness the most unexpected places.

3. Make time for things you love. So often, we put off doing things we love (i.e. spending time with friends and family, watching a favorite movie, going for a bike ride, etc.) for when we're "done" with our to-do list. Unfortunately, that often results in us never taking time for ourselves. Give yourself 15 minutes a day to do something you love and enjoy. The benefits will really be invaluable.

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Harness Your Motivation!

Below are some simple, easy tricks to harness your motivation to reach all your healthy lifestyle goals!

1. Change your vocabulary. Saying "I want to workout" or "I choose to eat healthy foods" is much more empowering that victimizing yourself and saying "I have to..."

2. Make a list. Making a list of all the reasons why your healthy living goals are important is a great way to harness your motivation. List everything from "fitting into my 'skinny' jeans" to "being able to play with my kids". Reread the list whenever you need a motivation booster.

3. Share your goals. Sharing your goals with others is a great way to hold yourself accountable. Telling your family and friends what you're hoping to achieve is a wonderful way to motivate yourself because if you fail to reach your goals, you'll not only disappoint yourself, but you'll have to "explain" it to your friends and family.

4. Recruit a friend. So many of us aim to get healthier as one of our primary goals. So, why not reach out to a friend, sibling or spouse to accompany you on your journey. Teaming up is a fantastic way to get your butt in gear!

Best of luck : ).