Shopping For “Healthy” Sunglasses

A while back I wrote about my struggle to find the perfect sunglasses. Back then any pair of shades that didn’t make me look like a bug would make it to the check out counter. Then I went to the ophthalmologist and got a major wake up call. If you base your choice in outdoor eyewear on comfort or fashion you may be putting your eyes at risk. Many of us look at sunglasses as an accessory or simply a way to avoid squinting on a sunny day. Rarely do we consider how they protect our eyes and the skin … Continue reading

Lighter Fare: Window Treatments

In previous articles on lightening up for spring and summer, window treatments were mentioned. Removing heavy drapes and curtains or simply opening them up and adding sheers were some of the recommended changes but if you would like more ideas, read on. If you want to let the sunshine in but have concerns regarding privacy, even during certain hours, consider adding blinds, shades, or matchstick shades to close when privacy is needed. When you want to open the windows or simply let more light in, retract the shades or blinds and use lightweight treatments such as sheers, valances, or window … Continue reading

Remote-Control Blinds: Another Remote to Find (Lose)

With all of the remotes in my house (six I believe) I can only find one or two at any given moment. They disrupt my days and disturb my nights because I sometimes count them instead of sheep when I can’t sleep. Now they have come up with something else that seems wonderful but can’t be because it requires the storage and use of still another remote. I’ll tell you about it anyway because these blinds are truly a work of technological art. These blinds are especially useful for windows in hard-to reach areas, you know where you can’t vacuum … Continue reading

Celebrity Style Fix: Sunglasses

No trip to the beach is complete without a pair of sunglasses. Whether they are $450 designer frames or $5 convenience store shades, sunglasses are hot items, especially when the mercury climbs skyward. Take a quick glance through fashion and celebrity lifestyle magazines (I do while I’m in the check out line at the grocery store) and you will see page after page of Hollywood stars donning tinted lenses. They look great. So, how come I look like a bug when I put on a pair? At first I blamed it on my daughter (until the guilt overwhelmed me and … Continue reading

Monochromatic Doesn’t Mean Boring

Many people think of boring beige or stark white when they think of monochromatic decor. A monochromatic color scheme simply means one color; it doesn’t dictate which color it has to be. It doesn’t dictate that everything in the space has to be exactly the same shade of color either. Neutrals do make good choices for monochromatic spaces, especially if you prefer a calming feel, but you can use very vivid color as well. Rich shades of red make a room warm. Bright greens give a fresh feel. Neutrals can also be blended with color too, depending on the tone. … Continue reading