When I invited you along on this journey to Awesomeville I only told you it was about simplicity. I never said anything about beauty.
But as I sat down last night and jotted down a list of what I wanted to accomplish as I move toward a more simple home I realized that a fresh coat of paint and better use of the beautiful things that I already own would be transformational as well.
I think we all take on possessions because we find them lovely in some way. A bird's nest, a yard or two of gorgeous fabric, a thrift store piece of furniture. Potential. Potential is a bugger.
But what are those things doing? Are they clutter? Are they useful? Are they art? Are they simply languishing in your "awaiting inspiration" basement stash?
I love the idea of breathing life into the things we already have. On this journey I will be sending bags and boxes down the road, but a few things I will pull out, hold in my hands, and offer a yes. A Get Out of Jail Free card as it were. A purpose.
I'm all for that. Creating beauty is a reminder, I suppose, of who I truly am. It tells me that while in my imperfections I may create this:
With a bit of focus and inspiration (and sandpaper) I can also create this:
(And this branch rack languished in the "potential" heap for six years before I picked it up and asked myself: "Stay or go?" I chose stay, and I finished the project that very week.)
Yes, I choose to use my amazing powers for good, not evil. We all create. So let's create calm. Let's create simplicity. Let's create order. And let's also create beauty.
