Mr Man and I just returned from a trip to St Augustine, Florida, the oldest city in America. I thoroughly enjoyed taking pictures of the architecture around the most historical part of the city. One of the most interesting tours I went on was the first military hospital that was founded by the Spanish. Being a very devout Christian people their standard of cleanliness was before their time. Their survival rate was double what it was around the world. The pharmacist also grew many plants as medicine.

What does this have to do with color and design, Fran?

When you walk into a beautiful home design boutique what do you feel?

If you are like me you experience joy when experiencing the world around you. I recall years ago, entering thru the door of a local home decor retail shop I cried.

It was clean, organized, and filled with fine linens and furnishings. As I walked around

I’ve been reading the book, Joyful by Ingrid Fetell Lee. Upon reading the introduction, this book had me. The author, Ingrid, asks the question “How do tangible things create an intangible feeling of joy?”

As I’m getting back to real life, Pantone FINALLY revealed their color of the year earlier this morning. I watch and listen to experts in the design industry for the pulse regarding color. Pantone is the leading color influencer in fashion, marketing, and my favorite interior design. Why?

Did you hear the news?

Benjamin Moore announced their color of the year for 2025! You definitely want to see this gorgeous color!

My walls in my new home are white, so I am inspired to talk about white paint. Lets get started!

Did you realize that white has an undertone? It can be difficult to determine with out asking deeper questions. And you know I’m all about the questions.

After a false start to spring in February here in the Northwest Suburbs, I think we have finally gotten here. The sun is shining today. Its energizing me today which is a great thing! I have big plans today.

Step into Cathy’s world for a moment. Cathy and her husband are empty nesters now and ready to embrace their new life. She and her husband are wanting to renovate their home. Cathy is so excited for all the possibilities but at the same time is overwhelmed by all the possibilities. They decide together that the best plan of attack is to hire a designer to help with the decisions. They have never hired a designer before and wonder, “what can I expect?” Well guess what, that’ alright, I don’t like surprises either!

As I sit here and reflect on the past year there have been so many things that have happened. The good, the bad and the ugly. And we have overcome the ugly and come out on the other side. I’m sure you can relate on some level. One reason, the primary reason is that I made a decision a few years back that I would choose to find something to be grateful for each day in many areas of my life. This I believe has had a profound change in me and those who I love. I will continue this.

Creating a great design starts with building a firm foundation with color and style elements that will bring harmony with the life we dream of living. Begin with a Color Palette + and you won’t be disappointed.

Home staging can make a huge difference when buyers tour your home. Choosing the “right” accessories is often the detail that make a home memorable to a potential buyer.

One of my most favorite accessory for staging a home to sell is:

Some months are slow to get started. I always find myself at the end of month excited for the new one upcoming. I found myself sick for 3 weeks last month. Fighting a nasty cold that turned into a sinus infection that just wouldn’t quit no matter what I threw at it! I finally went to the doctor where I was prescribed an antibiotic. I am already feeling better. Sometimes I just don’t want to wave the white flag. Maybe you are like me, slow to accept help. But, when I finally do, I flourish!

The week between Christmas and New Years Day is a great time to reflect on what I want to focus my intentions on for my business and for myself personally. A word of intention helps me keep focused. This year I chose the word Flourish for my one word that symbolizes my intentions. My desire is to help support you by creating a classic, timeless and elegant home that serves you so that you can flourish in your own life and career.