A fresh start

I suppose an ounce of prevention would have helped not have so much to clean out at the end of the year. More likely it is just time. No matter how good you are at prevention, there comes a time when it just needs to be thouroughly cleaned or cleaned out.

This afternoon, I'm going through my inbox and filing pile. This is just the start. I have a deep desire to clean out from top to bottom. Discard what is not needed or wanted- empty out, clean out, sort through, deep clean, recyle and get rid of. Whew-just typing those words feels good!

Is it the natural feeling we get after the holidays or does it come from the end of the year? Whatever it's source, it is a powerful force. The holidays are beautiful but I'm not sure I don't like this feeling even better. The feeling of a fresh start.

Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!!!
Denise

Are your holiday rugs color safe??

Happy holidays to all,

This morning as I was cleaning my own home, a thought came to mind. I wanted to remind you to be careful with holiday rugs. Little entry rugs and rugs to go around the tree are beautiful but they may not be color safe. With a little heat, a little time or a little moisture that bright red or green might just transfer to your own carpet or vinyl.

We have seen it a zillion times. So be of good cheer and be careful with those rugs,

Happy holidays,
Denise

Epoxy use safety article from NTCA

An ounce of prevention is good advice. Today I was reading my Tile letter magazine and came across an article called "Avoid the dangers of epoxy grouts and mortars". It is an article helping contractors be aware of a possible allergic reaction to epoxy. It reminds us to not let our skin and eyes come in contact with epoxy as you might develop an allergic reaction. Apparently, the reaction is like having 2nd degree burns. Once you get the reaction is seems to be permanent. Even the fumes could be an ongoing problem.

This article is a wise reminder to read labels and follow directions. This is good advice if you are a contractor or homeowner. Research your products and always remember to be healthy as you work.

It is easy to get caught up in working and forget about your own health. Please take care of yourself as you care for your client's homes or for your own home.

If you would like the full article, it is in the November issue of Tile Letter, page 12. You might also be able to find it at www.tileletter.com. The article was written by Michael Whistler he is the Region 10 NTCA director. For more information or to find out about using the NTCA Contractor Safety Program contact Jim Olson. jim@tile-assn.com or by phone (601)-939-2071. Jim Olson is the NTCA's assistant executive director. NTCA is the National Tile Contractor's Association

Here's to being heathly as you work,
Denise

"The value of the dwelling is in the dweller"

"The value of the dwelling is in the dweller"
The Caliph's House by Tahir Shah pg166

I read those words and abruptly stopped reading to share this quote with you. It is so true. Over the past 19 years Dallas and I have been in many homes. In our early years, some of those homes were little apartments, now we are more likely to find ourselves in grand homes.

The value of the dwelling is truly in eye of the dweller. It's how we see our homes. If you love and care for your home. If you see it's beauty, the unique benefits, its charms you will find value in your home. If you see your home as a source of stress, of lack, or of frustration your home may become just that.

I have found the most extraordinary homes in every economic level. The true value of a home has more to do with the family that lives there than the structure itself. It is how a home is seen, treated, lived in that gives it its value.

Just a thought, now back to my book. By the way this is a great book!

Wishing you a healthy and happy home,
Denise