Right. It's all about the journey.. That was my excuse, but now I'm seeing what other folks have done and I feel like a total slacker. You're FINISHED Gracie! I never knew one could be finished with decorating, unless you hired a professional to do it for you... hmmm. Gracie? Are you looking for another project?

What a great idea! That looks terriffic 07. I'll file that away under my 'someday' list.

Very nice!

Decorating with northern color scheme
 

Gracie,
We're moving down in late Sept. with the same eggplant color sofa and love seat that are too comfy to leave behind. Where did you find your tropical fabric? I'm looking for other ideas on how to lighten up and Forida-ize the look of the living room. So glad for this discussion! Hope to meet y'all soon.

New vs. reupholstering
 

Unless you have a top of the line piece or family heirloom, it's usually better to buy new than to reupholster. By the time you invest in good quality fabric and pay someone for their labor it gets to be pretty pricey. I've found that I'm happier having neutral (but not boring) upholstery with fun, spashy accessories like rugs and pillows. You can change those out once you get tired of them and create a whole new look.

As for accessories, less is more for me. The less I have to dust and rearrange, the happier I am. I'm bringing more than I can use (we're closing in September) but I am planning to donate the extra things. Wouldn't it be fun to have an "accessories exchange" and everyone could trade in the things they are tired of and select "new" things! Sometimes it's not about having new but having something different.

I'm planning to decorate my new house in happy colors to reflect our new life in TV. I've left behind the burgundy and gold tapestry which was great in VA but not so much in FL. My degree is in interior design and I've spent the last few years helping people stage their homes for resale. I'll be happy to help out in any way I can after September 24. Just give me a few days to unpack!