Lighten Up Before the Winter Blues
By Stage-2 Home Preparation
Face it, cooler weather is approaching and yes, you will be more inclined to be indoors. To me, this could be one of the more depressing things to happen when winter approaches … we are consigned to spending more time inside. OK, now the home scrutiny comes, along with the knowledge that you didn’t complete half of the projects you started at the beginning of the summer. Worse yet, the other half of that list never GOT started. Ugh! What is that thing hanging up there on the ceiling? Don’t worry about it. I have a very simple solution to handle all of this, and it will make you feel better. It all has to do with lighting.
Unless you are a skier or some other winter sport(s) nut, the only way to survive the winter blues is a comfortably, well-lit interior. To me, and I’m not alone here, proper lighting is the best (and most economical) way to go to lift your spirits when the hum drum, dark days of winter arrive. Contrary to popular belief (and my husband’s opinion) it’s not just about sticking a 100 watt bulb into a socket. Well–lit does not mean blinding, splitting headache bright. Us savvy, budget-conscious, decorative thinkers can create mood-lifting lighting for every room in our homes. I personally have a dimmer on every light switch in my house. I don’t know why you wouldn’t. It’s not expensive, and makes a huge impression. Even the bathrooms get a little levity. There is nothing worse then waking up, flicking on the light switch, then; #1 being blinded, and #2 seeing the true scariness that is me first thing in the morning. So, keep it low … Here’s how: Family Handyman Step-by-Step Guide.
In addition to the dimmer option, there are a tremendous amount of lighting fixtures out there as well to enhance your room’s vibe. Just make sure the light fits the room. September’s issue of Real Simple, page 158 shows you just what each room needs. Here are some quick tips: Living Room: Combo of table and floor lamps, on three-way switches, in at least 3 of the 4 corners. Dining Room: Chandelier/Pendant hung 30-33” above table. Kitchen: Overhead, and task lighting over work surfaces. Bathrooms: sconces on either side of mirror as well as overhead (useful for make-up application.)
Oh, and lastly, since it’s that time of year already (!), you cannot beat a nicely lit fire … whether it be wood-burning, gas, or electric, a room with a “roaring” fireplace adds warmth, ambience and sometimes a little romance!
