By the time you hold this in your hands, I hope to be in Georgia watching my son graduate from Army Advanced Individual Training (AIT) and celebrating my daughter’s 19th birthday, as she nears the end of her first year of college. This past year has brought so many changes for our family — both wonderful and hard — including losing my father after a long journey with Parkinson’s Disease.
Spring reminds me that with each new season, there is new life and new hope. And more things to store away!
My basement is now filled with totes of things my son needs to store while he’s in the Army. We’ll soon have more containers filled with items from a college dorm (bring on those XL twin sheets!). I’ve also been collecting many mementos from my father’s life. Each time I’m at my mother’s house, she has another little bag of sweet memories — a well-worn hat, a Member’s Only jacket, a Parent’s Weekend Guide from the 1990s.
We all face the dilemma: what to keep and what to let go. I appreciate Laurel’s article on where and how to donate to local organizations that benefit our community. That’s a real win-win as we spring clean.
Making better use of our closets is another solution. Kate talks to local experts on how to make the most of these spaces.
When you have finished your spring reorganization, you might be ready for a refresh. Check out Martha’s article for some simple — and more robust ideas! You might like to start with a mood board. Or by checking out the latest wallpaper trends.
If you’ve had enough of cleaning and decluttering, get out of the house, and go pick some strawberries! Plant some early bloomers in your yard. Or go on the Historic Garden Week Tour in Roanoke. The HOME team will also be at the tour headquarters, located at Church of the Holy Spirit, on the day of the event. Please come by and say “hello”!
Also, don’t miss our showcase home: The Ballengers have imbued their home with local art and creativity. While this gorgeous Tudor home has evolved through the years, it also remains timeless.
Make the most of this beautiful season. While change doesn’t stop, you can certainly stop and smell the hyacinths along the way!
Donna Dunn | donna@jamesrivermedia.com
