Sleep Sound when Designing Your Sanctuary Bedroom

Designing your bedroom? You must be excited, or perhaps you’re a little overwhelmed with all the options available to you. Nevertheless, here is a check-list to consider when designing your dream bedroom, no pun intended.

The first thing you want to do is decide what style, theme or atmosphere you and your partner are looking for. Two common bedroom themes are: the comfortable/cozy look and the modern functional design. Choose one that better suits you and your partner. If you choose the comfortable look, a fireplace and thick rug are nice additions. If you prefer a modern style feel, which is great for condo living, consider getting an urban-looking platform bed and don’t be afraid to add abstract art pieces. Whichever style you choose, try to use soft colors to enhance a restful mood.

It has been proven that the color of a room has a great impact on your mood, so much so that a red room will increase your blood pressure and make you more anxious. Soft blue and neutral colors are one of the most restful tones, but any soft color will do the trick.

Once you have an over all idea of what you want your bedroom to look like, the next step is getting a bedroom set that accommodates all of your needs. Know what pieces of future will pertain to you, whether you would like a bedroom desk, a bookcase, or multiple dressers.

The bed is the most important part because it should always be the focal point of any bedroom; therefore, it should be a good size in relation to the room. A good idea is to invest in two comfortors, not only to freshen up the look of your room but also to adjust by seasons. Enjoy your new bedroom sanctuary!

Why Choose a Platform Bed?

Platform beds are being more and more popular in recent years – especially in condos and loft spaces that complement its modern style.

The main reason people choose platform beds over traditional ones is to avoid needing a bedspring. Bedsprings can become inconvenient over time –they start to creak after a while, they can break and on top of that, for a new bed, it’s an added cost and an added hassle to get it into the bedroom. Plus, platform beds often have storage drawers underneath, giving you extra space for your items.

That’s why platform beds were invented: to remove the need for a bed spring.
Platform beds are designed so there’s a slight indent in them where the mattress goes. The whole bed is slightly higher than a normal bed, so it makes up for the height a bedspring would normally add. There are a variety of styles, finishes and brands offered, such as South Shore and Modus platform beds.

If you are looking to avoid the additional expense of a boxpring and have more storage space, a platform bed is a great option to consider.

-MA

Choosing a New Baby Crib

Becoming a parent is an incredible experience. Awaiting the arrival of a new addition to your family is a joyous time in a parent’s life. It’s also a time that takes a lot of preparation. One of the most important elements of setting up a welcoming environment for your little one is finding the perfect crib. After all, a baby sleeps for more than half a full-24-hour day, during the first few weeks of life. Baby cribs are also used for at least two years of the first few years of a baby’s life. Getting a crib that safe and fits your infant’s every need is extremely important.

Keep in mind when selecting a crib is you want one that’s durable and one that has bars close enough together to restrain your tiny bundle of joy. It’s a good idea to measure the space reserved for your new crib because baby cribs do come in all shapes and sizes. As well, cribs come with different features one should consider such as, cribs that are foldable for those looking for a crib that’s easy to move to different areas of the home, cribs that have adjustable mattress heights and a 4 in 1 crib. The 4 in 1 cribs, such as the Da Vinci Cribs, are cribs that convert into 4 different models including a day crib all the way to a full size bed. What a deal! Buying the best crib for your child so you can watch soundly as your baby dreams sweet dreams is what it is all about.

-MP

How to Pick a Crib for Your Baby

This is an exciting time for you! You have so many ideas for your baby's nursery that you don't know where to begin but you would like to incorporate as many of them as you can. As new parents, you want to do everything "right" and that includes designing the perfect first room for your newborn. Let's take it one step at a time. Not only is it the focal point of the room, you will want to pick a crib for your baby that will keep your child safe and sound.

Quality Construction: Since your baby will be sleeping in it for two to three years, it must be durable and strong. The crib you select should be well-made, sit level on the floor without wobbling or tipping and edges and corners should be smooth. Hardware such as locking mechanisms, etc. should be user-friendly and hidden from baby. For safety's sake, the distance between each slat must not be any wider than 2.38 inches. This will prevent your child from getting stuck in between.

Comfortable: You're not going to put your child into a bare crib; it's the mattress that makes it comfy for your baby. Crib mattresses fall into two major categories, foam and innerspring. Neither one is more or less beneficial than the other; it is simply a matter of personal preference. Studies have shown that if the parents sleep on an innerspring mattress, they will probably choose the same for their child; the same of course applies to those who prefer to sleep on a foam mattress. Trusted manufacturers of baby nursery furniture and accessories like Da Vinci, Dream On Me and LA Baby offer both foam and innerspring baby crib mattresses.

Affordable: There are so many different types of cribs available in a range of different prices. Select one that you can afford: many high-end cribs have economical versions that are just as charming and appealing. Definitely make a budget for each piece of baby furniture you will need.

- E. L.

Contemporary Beds for the Contemporary Bedroom

With the appearance of thinking outside the box, contemporary beds are often on the cutting edge of design. Contemporary bedroom furniture is well-known for smooth lines, sleek profiles and the creative use of construction and decorative materials. Beautiful and practical, a contemporary bed breathes new life into the space and in turn, revitalizes you.

Contemporary Wood Beds

A contemporary style wood bed is ideal for those who want their bedroom to posses a clean, uncluttered look, but still include elements that lend the room a warm, comfortable and relaxed look. Contemporary beds with lighter finishes such as birch, pine or maple can make a bedroom appear lighter. But wood bed with a dark rich finish like the Modus Maui Wave Birchwood Panel Bed that incorporates texture will definitely create visual interest.

Contemporary Metal Beds

Contemporary metal beds possess a unique and timeless elegance that is conducive to a tranquil bedroom environment. Metal beds a generally strong and long lasting. Typically the frame of a metal bed will be made of iron. But it's what a designer can do with the metal that makes metal contemporary beds so interesting. When going for a trendy look, choose a contemporary bed like the Hillsdale Neopolitan Metal Bed with its individual bowed design and sleek nickel finish.

Platform Beds

An essential element of the contemporary bedroom is the platform bed. As far as contemporary beds go, there is just something inviting about its low-profile design that literally breathes new life into a room's décor. Platform beds with underbed or built-in storage drawers are ideal for a contemporary bedroom, especially one that doesn't have much storage space to begin with. Maybe because they are closer to the floor or they commonly don't have a footboard, the appeal of a platform bed is its casual air of relaxation.


- E.L.

Top 3 Reasons to Own a Futon

I feel like almost everyone I know has owed a futon at some point in their life. They are just so convenient! In fact, here are my Top 3 reasons to own a futon:

1. It’s Much Easier to Move
Instead of taking apart a traditional bed, moving it to its new location and then reassembling it all over again, you can much more easily move a futon. Simply collapse the frame and carry it anywhere you want. The actual futon is much lighter and folds in half, making it easy to fit in any doorway.

2. It’s Inexpensive
Futons are much cheaper than beds and sofas, however, don’t mistake low cost with low quality. There are many, many high quality futon frames and mattresses you can buy. Futons are often less expensive than beds and sofas because there’s less material required to make the frame.

3. Versatile
Futons can fold out into a bed or it can easily fold into becoming a sofa or a futon chair. It can double both as living room furniture and bedroom furniture. This saves both space and money. Also, futon covers can be purchased separately, completely changing it’s style, which is convenient if you want to redecorate, but minimize your costs.

Have you ever owned a futon, what has your experience been?

-M

Full Bedroom Sets vs. Individual Pieces

Why buy a bedroom set?
Full bedroom sets are already professionally chosen and designed to look great together. The style, the materials they’re made from, the various designs are all similar and complementary. Not to mention, they definitely save time and money if you are limited on resources but want a new look for your room.

The great thing is that with full bedroom sets, all the interior designing is done for you. All you need to do is decide where to put each piece. Buying a full bedroom set is usually cheaper than buying individual pieces as well. If anything is missing, then that’s when you’ll want to supplement your bedroom set with added furniture.

Why buy individual pieces?
If you do have a bit more money to spend and are confident in your eye for design, why not invest in individual pieces? By going this route you can make your space more reflective of your personal style, which is also very important. On the other had, if you are quite strapped for cash, you can buy pieces over time, saving up for each one.

What do you prefer: purchasing a full set or buying pieces individually?

-M

"Right" Reasons for a Queen Storage Bed

If you are looking for a queen platform bed, there are several reasons why it is the “right” choice for almost any bedroom décor, including the fact that you’ll never have to vacuum underneath the bed! The platform bed continues to gain in popularity simply because of its versatile design. Add functional storage and features like a bookcase headboard into the mix, and you have an ideal bed for any room, from the master bedroom to a second bedroom reserved for guests.

Probably the best reason for considering purchasing a queen platform bed is that it is economical. Because the design of a platform bed includes its own mattress support system, it does not need a box spring. And due to their simpler designs, queen platform beds tend to be less expensive than other types of standard beds such as a sleigh or poster bed.

At first glance, a queen platform bed might not appear like a multi-functional piece of furniture. But in small spaces like a studio apartment or a smaller-sized bedroom, a storage platform bed can actually eliminate the need for a dresser. And since, no matter where we live or the size of the room, we never seem to have enough storage, a platform bed adds maximum functionality to your living environment.
Use a queen platform bed to create the illusion of a bigger room. It often will make a room appear larger because of its low-profile design, which places the bed closer to the floor, revealing more of the wall, emphasizing the distance between the bed and the ceiling. Platform beds have smooth, clean lines that give them a distinctly modern appeal. Because a platform bed typically doesn’t have a footboard, this kind of bed can even open up the room, making it feel less cramped or cluttered.

-RL

The Features of Bar Stools

Bar stools have many options in terms of style and design. Here are just a few to consider:

Arm Rest
Arm rests give a more majestic or old fashioned vibe to the chair. It can make it more comfortable for people to rest their arms. However, it can make it a little awkward to talk to people next to you.

Back Rest
Bar stools can have a low or high back rest, or no back at all. Having a backless bar stool can make it a bit uncomfortable for people with back and posture problems.

Swivel
Swiveling makes it easier for people to talk to whoever they want to talk to, though it’s slightly more expensive than stationary chairs.

Upholstery
Upholstered stools can really add a classy vibe to the atmosphere. They tend to be slightly more expensive, so it does come down to how much you’re willing to invest.

If you choose to get upholstered counter bar stools, then the question becomes whether you want a soft and plushy barstool so people can rest, or just a slightly cushioned bar stool so that your guests are more comfortable than if it were just a plain surfaced bar stool.

As you can tell, there are quite a few options to choose from. What are your preferred features?

-M

Things to Keep in Mind when Buying a Baby Crib

Buying a baby crib is an important decision in raising your baby. Your baby’s going to be spending a lot of time in his or her crib. How much full sleep he will have, how much color is in his childhood, his safety, are all affected by the crib you choose. Here some things to consider before choosing a crib:

Price
Have a figure you’re willing to spend in mind. Note that price often reflects the quality of the design and manufacturing, however, there are still great baby cribs available in lower price ranges.

Style
There are many styles of baby cribs to choose from such as: convertible crib or not, finish, size, design, etc. Don’t forget that the style itself should match the bedding as well as the overall interior design of the nursery.

Safety
Safety is a huge concern when it comes to selecting a baby crib. First of all, check to see if the crib you’re planning on purchasing has the appropriate certification and that it meets national safety standards. As an added tip, check product recall sites when researching your crib purchase.

Return Policy
Knowing that you are purchasing a crib from a store with a decent return policy will allow you to freely make your decision to purchase without having to worry about making the wrong choice.

What else would you keep in mind when buying a baby crib?

-M

Contain Your Shelf: Bookcase Decorating Ideas

You don't have to be an avid reader to own a bookcase. Bookcases are a stylish and decorative storage solution that can fit almost any room of your home. Because they come in a wide range of sizes, a low-profile bookcase in a hallway is a functional yet trendy way of managing clothing items like mitts, hats and scarves. Or how about a corner bookshelf in the kitchen as a handy place to store those cookbooks you use the most? Dust off your ideas about those dusty bookshelves in your local library; when decorating with bookcases, the possibilities are endless.

Decide on the Location

Decide on the location of your bookcase. Measure the area where the bookshelf will be going. Especially if it will be in a high-traffic area such as a hallway, living room or family room, check to make sure that the bookcase will not impede traffic floor, be in the way of opening/closing doors, etc.

Decide on the Purpose

Choosing a focus or purpose for your bookcase might also play a part in the style, size and type you end up buying. Bookcases equipped with baskets provide easy and effortless storage solutions for a front hallway or a living room. In a basement room or family room, bookcases with baskets or cubbies are ideal for storing crafting supplies, games or toys.

Bookcase Decorating Tips

Place baskets or organizer trays in one or two shelves of a bookcase in a guest bedroom.

Have a bookshelf you no longer use? Paint it a different color and repurpose it. Who can't use extra shelving in a laundry room, the garage or on an enclosed porch or sun room?

Bookcases make a great economical alternative to a china cabinet or a curio. Use one in a living room or dining room to display collectibles.


- E.L.

TV Armoires for the Bedroom

For most of us, watching television is one of our favorite ways to unwind after a busy day. It is inconceivable to miss even five minutes of NCIS, The Good Wife or Bones. You like watching TV as much as anyone else. But when it comes to the bedroom, you would like to draw the line and leave the television behind in the living room or the family room (where it belongs). What if you're like a lot of us (me included!) who have a partner who likes to watch the late night movie in bed?

What do you do? Compromise with a TV armoire. While it will be on in the room when you want to read quietly or even drift off, an armoire will at least be out of sight when not in use. And maybe your partner will be inspired to use headphones...it could happen. If this decor design solution appeals to you, here are some tips for buying the perfect TV armoire for your bedroom.

TV Armoire Size and Height

TV armoires are designed to hold smaller-sized televisions, typically any type of television, from a CRT TV to a flat screen, 34" to 37" in size, but the actual size of the armoire can vary. Make sure that it will fit the space it's intended for.

You will want the television to be the perfect viewing height when sitting up in bed. The viewing height of the television will largely depend on the height of the armoire's TV area in relation to the height of the bed. Make sure that the shelf the TV will sit on is adjustable.

TV Armoire Doors

So that you will be able to comfortably view the TV screen while sitting in bed, select a TV armoire with 270 degree doors. These types of doors allow you to fold them against the sides of the armoire, out of the way. Another option is pocket doors, which typically slide into the body of the armoire cabinet.

TV Armoire Features

A television armoire will not only hide away the television when it’s not being used, it will also give you more storage options. Give some thought to what kinds of features your TV armoire should have in order for it to be the most useful to you.

Some manufacturers offer a TV/wardrobe armoire specifically designed with both uses in mind. These dual purpose TV/wardrobe armoires have features that allow them to be used as a wardrobe or a TV armoire and can easily be converted back and forth from one use to the other.

Common TV armoire features include wire management, adjustable shelves, pull-out trays for DVD/CD storage and cubbies and/drawers.


- E.L.

Classic Headboards for the Bedroom

Classic headboards are headboards that have a timeless appeal and never (ever) go out of fashion. Style doesn't matter: they can be ultra modern; have a cottage country flair; or possess a stately and formal traditonal elegance. Opting for just a headboard in a smaller sized master bedroom, guest room or second bedroom is a functional way to make the space appear larger, but a classic headboard will give yourbedroom furniture a touch of style and breathe new life into your décor.

Upholstered Headboards

Upholstered headboards can be made from any number of fabrics. They can also be crafted of other materials such as leather, rattan, wicker and vinyl. An upholstered headboard typically adds visual interest to a bedroom's interior design. Especially if you enjoy reading or watching television in bed, it can also function as a backrest.

Metal Headboards

I don't have any proof, but I'm willing to bet that metal headboards have been making a comeback since Bob Dylan first sang "...lay across my big brass bed." Bob Dylan aside, metal headboards, depending upon their decorative detail, can have an Old World charm. There is something about a brass, gold or antiqued bronze metal headboard for a truly classic appearance. If your bedroom furniture is more modern or contemporary, select a metal headboard that is made of polished nickel, aluminum or chrome.

Wood Headboards

Classic wood headboards, particularly when they have rich, warm finishes, give any décor a vibrant and luxurious feel. Because it is made of wood, wood headboards are generally strong and extremely durable. Especially when they include curvy profiles, curving lines and carved decorative details, wood headboards, they can be stately and formal in appearance. For a variation an a classic wood headboard theme, select one that includes metalwork for a relaxing Old World atmosphere.

- E.L.

Home Theater Furniture for your Media Room

No doubt you have spent a small fortune on your television, sound system and all the other important pieces of equipment you need in the process of setting up your home theater. When choosing the right furniture pieces for your media room, resist the temptation to skimp now. You will want home theater seating that is ultra comfortable to last through a showing of any or all of The Lord of the Rings movies. You will also need media storage that looks as good as it is functional.

No Reflective Surfaces

When buying media room furniture, try to avoid anything shiny or has a reflective surface. This includes things you might not immediately think of us being shiny such as a leather sofa, home theater chairs or even wood tables. Avoid media storage pieces made of metal and select finishes that are matte or antiqued instead of ones with a high polish.

Big Comfy Chairs

Consider what kind of home theater seating you would like. Recliners especially designed for a home theater or a media room include "movie watching" features that aren't usually a part of standard recliners such as cup holders, hidden storage or collapsible trays. When purchasing group home theater seating, give some thought to whether you would like a 2-seat, 3-seat or 4-seat configuration. Depending on the size of your media, you may want two rows instead of one. Keep in mind that any chair levers or recliner mechanisms should work smoothly and silently.

But you don't have to stick to classic home theater seating. A sectional sofa that provides maximum viewing may be an ideal way to furnish your media room. No matter what you choose, above all, home theater seating should be comfortable.

Other Media Room Furniure Considerations

If you are not using a projection system of some kind, what will you be doing with the television? A TV wall mount is an option. When mounting the television to the wall is not an option, select an entertainment center that will be large enough to accommodate your TV as well as a DVD player and any other piece of audio or video equipment you will require.

Media storage should fit your lifestyle and personal preferences. If you like everything tidied away, then any media storage you select should include hidden storage solution options.

- E.L.

Planning a Media Room

Now that the holidays are over and while the weather is still chilly or downright cold, this might be a good time to plan a media room or a home theater. With its cold temperatures and blustery weather, January is a month that inspires creative ways to nest, keep warm and hibernate in style. If a home theater or media room sounds appealing to you but you're not sure where to begin, here are a few ideas.

Location: The ideal place for a home theater is its own room. But if you don't have the space for a dedicated media room don't despair. You can easily incorporate one into a family room, living room or a basement room.

Purpose: You might think this is a no brainer, but before you get too far along in your medio room planning, decide what the main purpose of the media room will be. If you're only using the room to watch television and movies, then a home theater interior design plan will be more useful to you. However, if you want a comfy place to listen to Coltrane or your kids want their own spot for gaming, then you will need to accommodate these activities in your media room plan.
Focal Point: The television, of course will be the focal point of your media room, home theater or media area. Measure the width of the TV's viewing screen. Home theater furniture such as recliners, the sofa, etc. should be positioned double width of the TV's viewing screen. For example, if the screen is 47 inches wide then any home theater seating should be at least seven feet away from the television for an optimum viewing experience.



Lighting: You will want to be able to see the name of the title on the DVD but have the option of dimming the lights when the movie is about to begin. Adjustable overhead lighting such as track lighting or canned lights are ideal for a home theater or a media room.



- E.L.

How to Choose an Accent Mirror

Like accent tables, accent chests and accent chairs, accent mirrors add that little extra something to the rooms of your home. Because everyone uses them regardless of which room they are in, an accent mirror is also an easy way to increase the room's functionality. But as with other pieces of accent furniture, in order for accent mirrors to have the desired effect and create maximum impact, it helps if you know what to look for.

Size

When choosing an accent mirror for a specific room or area such as a second floor hallway or a foyer, location will play a big role in the shape and size that you select. Naturally, you will want it to fit the intended space so that it looks "right;" not too big or too small, so scale is important.

Shape

While we might not give it a second thought, the shape of an accent mirror definitely makes a statement, defining the room it is in and lending an air of sophistication that would otherwise be missing. A rectangular decorative mirror draws attention to the height of the wall and by default, the ceiling. Round accent mirrors tend to make the mirror itself the center of attention. Whereas oval decorative mirrors put the focus on the frame and the spaces between the other elements in the rooomthat surround the mirror.

Style

Traditional style accent mirrors have an impressive look and feel that is typically formal or stately. A traditional decorative mirror is often very ornate, with metal scrollwork or wood carvings.

A contemporary style decorative mirror has a clean, streamlined appearance that is both inviting and stylish. A smart contemporary accent mirror may have a round or elegant oval shape with a textured frame.

Transitional accent mirrors merge the best of traditional and contemporary décor elements together. Corners are rounded; lines flow; and traditional decorative accents are softened and not as elaborate.

- E.L.

Easy Ways to Fit Exercise into your Daily Routine, part 2

While many women know that an exercise program would help them feel healthier, have more energy or even lose weight, sometimes it's difficult to change previouse non-exercising habits into fitness conscious ones. In part 1, we explored two ways to sneak exercise into our busy schedules. If one of your New Year resolutions is to exercise regularly, here are some more ideas for ways you can (almost) effortlessly incorporate some type of exercise into your busy routine with minimum effort but big payoffs.

Multi-Task Your TV Time

If you don’t want to miss the morning news or your favorite television show, put your time in front of the TV to good use. Multi-task your TV time with an exercise bike or the Phoenix Health & Fitness Power Rower. Working out in front of the TV isn’t like “really” exercising. Keeping your mind engaged while keeping fit prevents you from focusing on aspects of your workout that might discourage you such as thinking about how long you’ve been exercising, how tired you’re feeling and how you should be catching up on paperwork. Many types of exercise bikes and models of rowing machines can be folded away when not in use, which is a bonus for maintaining a room’s uncluttered and cozy atmosphere.

If exercise equipment, no matter how user-friendly, doesn’t appeal to you, even exercising in the commercials will pay off in the long run if you get yourself into the habit on a regular basis. Doing leg lifts, crunches and mild stretches while the ads are on will get you moving and loosen muscles.

Step It Up

Stepping units are conveniently portable and easy to use. They can be used virtually anywhere in your home, so you can watch baby, keep an eye on the kids or tune into your favorite soap while getting a little exercise. A stepping machine like the Phoenix Health & Fitness Denise Austin Mini Stepper Plus also has the added benefit resistance handles for working upper body muscles at the same time as giving your legs a workout.

How about just doing housework or working in the garden? Health professionals advocate 10,000 steps a day to keep you active and promote general well-being. The Timex Ironman Pedometer not only keeps track of how many steps you’ve taken, it also tracks how many calories have been burned.

It doesn’t have to be high-tech or complicated. By making the most of what “spare” time you have, fitness is at your fingertips. It just requires a little creativity, consistency and motivation. And the best part is it doesn’t have to take a lot out of your day.

- E.L.

Easy Ways to Fit Exercise into your Daily Routine, part 1

Many women know that they would greatly benefit from a regular exercise routine, particularly those of us who want to feel healthier, lose a little weight or get back into shape after having a baby. For a lot of us, finding the time in our hectic schedules to exercise is a constant struggle. And for busy new moms or moms with more than one child, it can be even more of a battle. But it doesn't have to be, with a few simple tricks and low-tech pieces of fitness equipment. Without even realizing you’re “exercising,” you can sneak fitness into your everyday routine before the love handles sneak up on you. This two-part series will give you some ideas as to how to begin.

Exercise at Your Computer

You can exercise at your computer while searching online for parenting tips or working from home. Replacing your office chair with an exercise ball is an excellent way for getting some exercise without really trying. Unlike sitting in a chair, an exercise ball is relatively unstable and requires balance in order for you to remain seated upright. Attempting to maintain your balance forces your spine into proper alignment.

Since you are constantly shifting position, you’re burning more calories than you would in an office chair, even one with wheels, which essentially does the work of moving for you. Sitting on an exercise ball for a full work day can actually burn up to 350 calories. Even if you don’t burn that many calories or are not seated at the computer desk continuously for eight hours, it will still contribute to your overall fitness.

An exercise ball has other benefits as well. Not only will it improve your balance, but while you’re maintaining your balance on a regular basis, you are strengthening your abdominal muscles (abs in fitness-speak). Using an exercise ball instead of a regular desk chair promotes good circulation, allowing blood to flow freely to all parts of your body. And of course, the best part is the cost: an exercise ball is much (much) cheaper than a regular office chair, especially an ergonomic one.

If an exercise ball seems too bouncy for you, consider the Power Systems Ball Chair. It provides all of the advantages of a standard exercise ball, but it has a rolling base, giving you the mobility of an office chair with all the benefits of the fitness ball. Whichever one you choose, an exercise ball is just plain fun and can help you get your work done while keeping you fit and energized.

Run When You Walk


Taking baby for walks is important to the child’s development, not only in terms of fresh air but also introducing them to the world around them and stimulating their little minds. Since you will need a stroller anyway, select the Kolcraft Jeep Overland Limited Jogging Stroller. Baby gets to sit safely in comfort while you jog down the street and around the block, getting into shape.

If jogging full out for any period of time seems a little intimidating, plan to alternate between jogging and walking. By choosing to walk and jog for specific intervals, for example two minutes of walking then switching to two minutes of jogging, you not only ease yourself into an exercise routine, you are also making it interesting. If it’s too hard, not fun or just plain boring, you won’t stick with it.

Come back Thursday when I'll be sharing more ways to sneak exercise into your daily routine in "Ways to Fit Exercise into your Daily Routine, part 2."

- E. L.

Rethinking the Coat Rack

I had a green coat rack in the hallway of my apartment back east that had been hand-crafted by my grandfather. I guess over the years as the wood dried out and joints loosened, it started to lean, becoming unstable, especially if I wasn't paying attention to where I was placing clothes on hooks and everything ended up on the same side. When I finally made the decision to send it off in style to coat rack heaven, I didn't realize what a gap it would leave in my hallway.

Yes, I became a little sentimental when I disposed of it, but I had no intention of replacing it. I suppose I wrote off coat racks as "old fashioned" because every one I personally encountered was in a home of my friends' parents, grandparents and aunts and was typically traditional in style. I (foolishly) thought my hall closet would be more than adequate, but after a few months of never being able to find my purse; draping my coat and scarf on the backs of chairs and hanging miscellaneous articles of clothing on doorknobs, I started to think that maybe I should reconsider.

A coat rack is a versatile piece of hall furniture that can be dressed up or left casual. A coat rack or hall tree that makes a statement can create visual interest. Especially if it's the first thing a visitor sees when entering your home, it can make the space welcoming and inviting. Coat racks made of brass, wrought iron, rattan or polished wood will add flair and sophistication to you hallway or foyer. It doesn't have to stay in the hallway either. A coat rack is a good choice for anywhere you need a little organization for outerwear, clothes and accesories like a bedroom, mudroom or back entryway.

Think they're just a stand with hooks and a bit of style? Coat racks can include features such as a revolving section to make access to clothes easier, an umbrella compartment or a set of lower hooks for children. If you don't have room for a freestanding coat rack, wall mounted versions are also alvailable.

It's not handmade but I did eventually get a wood one in a transitional style with brass hooks. It greets me as soon as I walk through the door. No more searching for a hanger in the closet; backs of chairs are no longer a tempting resting place.

- E.L.

No Pretzel Luggage

Never mind last minute packing; how about last minute luggage? During my previous trip to my home town this past Christmas, the luggage that greeted me at the carousel bore little resemblance to the luggage I started my journey with. Suitcase No. 1 sported a jagged split down one of its fronts while Suitcase No. 2's zipper gaped open where the handle had come away from the leather. I can't even in clear conscience blame air travel in general and baggage handlers in particular. I am a procrastinator and in all truthfulness, my luggage has needed to be replaced for awhile.

Now just under a year later, I am still victim of my own procrastination. I went to fetch my suitcases only to be reminded that I don't have any. But there's a silver lining; how to put this nicely? My old luggage was...well old. My suitcases were semi-soft sided and had wheels. But they didn't have retractable handles and while they could be wheeled through a busy holiday-time airport, I had to twist myself pretzel-like to do so. This apparent disaster presented the perfect opportunity to upgrade to upright luggage that looked like it belonged in the twenty-first century.

While it is fun in a desperate sort of way to sit on your suitcase in order to get it to close, expandable luggage is much more stylish and convenient to use. My new upright luggage set includes two suitcases of different sizes, a beauty case and a shoulder bag/carry-on with an adjustable strap. The retractable handles work like a dream and the wheels are so quiet I almost forget that my suitcases have wheels. In addition to having the confidence that my possessions are safely locked away and fully protected, the bonus to owning a new luggage set is knowing I don't have to roll it alongside of me twisted like a pretzel.

- E.L.