The Interior Life

02/06/2015

A recent study published in the American Journal of Medicine showed a link between "workplace stress" and heart disease. I posit that our rapid technological growth has actually increased our stress levels and raised expectations of productivity, not just at work, but at home as well.
Self-care is not about luxury, it's about survival. Taking time for yourself is a gift to those who depend on you.

05/23/2014

A new client shared this with me. I think she's a quick study.

09/11/2013

09/11/2013

Here is a view of that tired old kitchen in the youth center, not so tired now!

08/25/2013

Same kitchen on the other side. Not a place many teens would be excited to hang...
Strengths? Awesome architectural details, plenty of space, and a vintage leather and chrome couch set. Our budget is slim (there are six more rooms to be done) so creativity is key. Thankfully, I have an incredibly talented group of teens and volunteers who are up to the challenge!

08/25/2013

Feels like I haven't posted in forever! As many of you may already know, I am working part-time as the Youth Coordinator at my church. I've been giving the youth center all my free time (it really needs it) and I got to thinking that sharing some pics and ideas from this project would fit in well with The Interior Life! So, here's a glimpse of a Before...pretty lifeless.

07/24/2013

Taming the Paper Tiger!
At this point in the office redo, you've likely got a BIG box of paper from the sort. Now that you have the space to spread out, here's the deal. Take the manila folders and set them out individually on the desk surface. Take a small stack of your paper work from the box and begin sorting. As you identify each paper, put it in a pile on top of a folder. Example: coupons, to file, to read, memorabilia, receipts, etc. When you see these patterns emerge, label the folders and keep filling them. Don't be afraid to make as many different categories as you need! The key is in being able to identify what it is and find it when you need it.
This step may take one day or a week. Time doesn't matter. METHOD matters. Stay the course and keep going through one pile after another until you reach the end.
As always, I'm here for any questions, complications or just to vent.

07/22/2013

Back in my office today after an amazing time at the Steubie East conference with 40 fabulous teens!!! I am reenergized in my commitment to finish organizing my home office! Get ready for a crash course in taming the paper tiger over the next few days. We'll be delving into that pile of paper you boxed up during the sort, looking at filing options, and discussing when to save and when to TOSS!
It's going to be epic.

07/18/2013

Heading to Steubenville East conference with my daughter Lizzy tomorrow!! I will be radio silent for three days...enjoy the respite! :)

07/15/2013

Desk AND floor now clear! Considering a filing cabinet in place of the white book case. With floating shelves above. I've got an old dresser to repurpose for books and office storage. Next step, paint and furniture.