Perceptions “There are people who set high standards and whose very presence and actions inspire us to greater achievements”, according to Lisa Newsom, View from Veranda. They seem to know just the right action to take at the right time. Their homes seem to reflect their inner strength and position in life. All around us, people interpret taste in home and office furnishings, fashions and lifestyles. We inwardly imply or quantify people on the basis of their surroundings. Accessories can immediately and inexpensively change or reflect your mood and strengths. People underestimate what accessories can do. Trying something different is exciting and challenging. Adding accessories to a room reflects your personal style. Styles vary by person. It can range from contemporary to traditional, transitional to metro, southwest to northeast, ecclectic to mono. Some adventure to auctions and estate sales in pursuit of the perfect accessory. Others shop furniture or gift stores. Still others prefer to use interior designers. There is no right or wrong way. It is your personal taste. If you are not “comfortable” with accessorizing your home or think it is costly. I challenge you to take a stab at it. Start slowly, purchase one or two pieces, place them in your home, move them around or group other items with them. Look at the change in your room. Some question if it “looks” right; but for most people, your first reaction is the correct one. If it doesn’t look right, change the arrangement a little bit, add or take away a piece, let it set overnight and look at it again the next day, you will get it right. I like to start with a table then begin to add accessories to it. Take the next big step and add a mirror or piece of art above the table. Some are afraid to put a hole in the wall, others put numerous holes in their walls. Just remember: that is what patch ‘n paint is for. The next rainy day, take all of your accessories out of two rooms and mix them up. Surprisingly, you can achieve a whole new look and have fun at the same time. Rearranging enables you to frequently give your home or office a new look for little to no cost. I have personally found that such exercises give me confidence, boost my creativity and add personality to my home without spending enormous amounts of money.