If you've been following and implementing the organizing tips shared in my newsletters, your answer to the question should be, NO!

Organizing is a lot like cleaning or ironing. You can't just do it one time and it's done forever. You have to keep at it. Ideally, taking care of things promptly, or at least weekly, would keep everything in order. The reality is that you have a life and may have to let things slide from time to time in order to accommodate it.

This site was brought to my attention by a friend after she saw the file folders featured last month. Seems that the folders are available here, too-as well as a lot of off the wall things for an office. When browsing the site I found this slightly twisted pen holder. If the disorganization on your desk is killing you, this might be a not-so-subtle reminder to you, or someone you know, to keep your desk in order!

It's always interesting to group older black and white photos with some objects that may relate to the people or subjects in the photos. Incorporating an album in the arrangement not only adds interest but is a way to "display" more photos without adding to visual clutter. This photo album resembles a vintage camera and would be perfect to work into a display without taking up much room. Available from Anthropolgie for about $10.

Would you be prepared for a disaster? Emergency preparedness is essential, yet most of us don't have a plan in place.

The link below has information on creating a Emergency Notebook containing information and documents that you can grab on a moments notice. Many people keep similar books in their car in case of emergency. Find out how you can compile one and keep it up to date for peace of mind by clicking below.

Whether it's a sense of adventure or the effects of the economy that is fueling the trend, more people are going to thrift stores, flea markets, and salvage outlets for architectural finds and furnishings. Great buys may be hidden in the midst of what may seem like junk if you are willing to take the time and effort to literally sort through less than pristine inventory.

Pack a map and a GPS, include some drinks and snacks, some hand wipes and your are on your way. You can also prepare by:

• Dressing for the occasion- thick soled shoes or boots for a salvage yard excursion will help protect your feet. Also layers of clothes that can take a beating if needed (think snags and dirt), clothes with pockets that zip so that purses are unnecessary and work gloves to protect your hands will be helpful. Consider a dust mask if the area may be dusty or if you suffer from allergies or asthma.
• Have a small notebook with room measurements and things like wall space, drawer pull sizes, shelf length and more.
• Pack a magnet to help determine the base metal of a piece-it won't stick to solid copper or brass.
• Inquire in advance about payment options. Cash is king but some places will take a check. Credit cards may only apply for larger, more expensive purchases.

If you are considering a change in artwork for your rooms, textiles may be the perfect answer.

Your choices can range from classic to contemporary quilt designs, tapestries, rugs and framed woven works of art. Some scarf and handkerchief patterns lend themselves to framing. Family heirlooms such as christening gowns can become cherished pieces of art.

If you have souvenirs from travels such as a kimono or an obi, they can be striking additions to a wall. The traditional way to display an obi is on a smooth decorative branch or a special hanger make just for this purpose. An obi can be displayed by allowing the fabric to cascade in graceful loops from the rod or by creating elaborate fan-folds held in place by braided cords and/or tassels.

Successful displays of textiles prevent exposure to direct sunlight or extreme environmental changes such as heat and moisture. They also consider the balance of scale, color, pattern, texture and the character of each piece as it relates to the other furnishings in the room.

Need help with choosing art for your room? Are you unsure about your options? Call me-together we can create a plan that gives you the confidence in your choices that will compliment your furnishings and your tastes. Call 703-689-9886 or email me at faulknerredesign@aol.com for your consultation.

We all want to be more aware of our energy consumption and from time to time I will be including Going Green information in the newsletter. This month's tips come from the Lutron web site where you will find information from using the proper bulbs to how much you can save yearly just by using dimmers.

Get out your notepad and get ready to make some changes in your home. Go room by room and list what's lacking-warmth, comfort, color, lighting, organization, personality-or that hard to pin down "something"? Prioritize your list. Now let's get started with some quick ideas:

• Let in light. Heavily draped windows are out for spring. Take down elaborate window dressings, if only for the season. Have them professionally cleaned and store until the fall. You might be able to rework the design if it isn't too old and the fabric is in good condition.
• Change out accent pillows or update what you have. Adding lighter trims and accents to decorative pillows can give an them entirely new look.
• Add or change color accents. Bring in a new complimentary color and see how it transforms a room. Try a color block on a wall for a fast pop of color- it's easy and inexpensive to change if needed and can expand the size of smaller artwork or a grouping.
• Like the look of decorative throws all year? Replace heavier looking textiles with open weave styles in lighter colors.
• Bring in a live floral accent. Nothing says Spring! like forced bulbs or a flowering spring plant.
• Change out your artwork. Something light, bright and seasonal can lift your spirits and change the entire feel of a room. Inexpensive options abound from framed prints and posters to wonderfully graphic fabric mounted on stretcher strips.

Get more ideas at my Spring Redesign Party. If you live in the Northern Virginia area and would like to be on the invitation list, please email me at: faulknerredesign@aol.com and include your preferred email and snail mail address.

Here's something different. Land O Lakes will be selecting hosts for a complimentary House Party on March 28th. You and your guests can gather together to prepare special recipes using LAND O LAKES products. The recipes are selected to be enjoyed that night and also taken home.

The hostess and guests receive aprons and totes filled with recipe cards, coupons, and other goodies. It's a theme party complete with free favors!

To get more information on this offer and apply to be chosen to host, click below. Hurry-there are limited spaces available.

The Redesigner's Notebook is devoted to tips and articles relating to interior redesign, decorating, entertaining, organizing and related subjects.

If you have an interest or question that you would like to see addressed, or a community event that you would like to see included that relates to these subjects please contact me. Your comments and suggestions are always appreciated!
~ Pam Faulkner, Faulkner House Interior Redesign