With the holidays fast approaching, our thoughts not only turn to family and friends and all that we have to be thankful for, but to our "to do" lists of all we need to get done, presents that need to be bought, food that needs to be prepared, any remodeling projects that need to be finished (or started), and our holiday travel plans. Is it any wonder that our thoughts and wishes are for January to hurry up and get here? November and December are also so BUSY!

With my GREEN outlook on life, here's my perspective on the coming season: with all that we need to do, how can we get everything done and still keep to our commitment to being eco-friendly?

First, let's look at eco-friendly travel to and from our holiday destinations. Whether you're staying with friends and/or family, or planning a romantic holiday getaway, it's possible to travel without the fear of becoming sick from unhealthy interiors. When booking a hotel or other lodging, look for rooms that offer filtered water, organic bedding, and bans on cologne, perfumes, and scented bath and body products. Ask your lodging candidates if they use natural cleaners in housekeeping, as well as organic pesticides and repellents. From a design and architectural standpoint, the use of GREEN building materials, furniture and textiles, should ideally have been used in the building of all spaces. Bedding should be made of organic cotton, bamboo, or jute. Mattresses should be made from wool, cotton, or rubber latex.

Harmony Tip: Check out the Safer Travel Directory to find great eco-friendly lodging.

If you're driving to your holiday destination, check out hybrid options for a rental car to help save on travel costs. Most car rental companies offer hybrids as part of their fleet now.

How about tackling those unfinished remodeling projects before the holidays? It's already great to spruce up your home before family and guests arrive, but if they haven't been started yet, chances are they won't be finished in time for the holidays. If you were planning on purchasing new furniture for a new look, it's almost out of the question to purchase any custom item. With custom work, you won't receive the item by the arrival of your first guest. Most custom pieces need to be ordered anywhere between 4 to 12 weeks in advance to ensure timely delivery. You can purchase an "in stock" item that can be delivered in time if you find one that meets your needs. Any and all major renovations on your home should be put off now until the start of next year. Obviously if you need a new roof, a tree falls through a window, or your furnace breaks, you need to swing into action ASAP. I'm speaking about the need to refinish your cabinets, get a new countertop, or put in new bedroom flooring.

In planning for next year, all home renovations need to be started by September to be finished by the holidays . . . no matter what your contractor may tell you!

OK, now on the good stuff, the holiday food and decorations. After all, that's what really drives us during the holiday's, am I right? What neighbor has the most over-the-top lighting and outdoor decorations, and what party has the best buffet? You can implement Integrative Lifestyle Design principles to achieve a great color scheme for your holiday decorations, a great seating chart for better family harmony, and a colorful, balanced menu.

Thanksgiving, and all of November, is a time of abundance and giving thanks for all that we've been given over the past year. This is the month to celebrate the harvest. In Feng Shui, an integral part of Integrative Lifestyle Design, purple, green, and any metallic color are symbols of Wealth and Abundance. The appropriate shape for November is organic, free-flowing lines and the appropriate element is Water. In your "I'm Thankful for the Abundant Harvest" color scheme, use the abovementioned colors for the perfect harmonious décor.

Many decorations include pumpkins, scarecrows, and cornstalks. In Feng Shui terms, these items won't work, although pumpkins are appropriate for Halloween. Scarecrows are meant to "scare away" crows and other birds that would eat the crops; in FS terms, you don't want to "scare" away anything; you want to attract things instead. You want to cultivate good energy and new opportunities. Cornstalks typically used are dried and dead, and you don't want to use anything "dead" in your décor as you don't want "dead or stagnant" energy in your space.

Use chrysanthemums in a variety of colors for decorations. Mums are the Chinese flower for Fall, plus they come in many colors to create a vibrant atmosphere. A cornucopia filled with flowers, gourds, or anything else that represents abundance can be a great tabletop centerpiece that, by its nature, attracts abundance to you. Any type of vines or branches with leaves can be draped in a free-flowing way to represent water. Decorate with garlands around entryways, on curtain rods, or on railings to bring in the Water element to your design décor. Use accessories that embody abundance to you; it doesn't matter if it makes sense to anyone else! A friend of mine uses sunflowers as sunflower fields represent abundance to her. To another person it could be lots of table linens. What works for one, doesn't work for all.

Harmony Tip: What represents abundance to you? Figure it out, then use it in your holiday decorating scheme.

Your decorations or party favors should include purple or green and can incorporate metal accents. Use deep, saturated, jewel-tones here. Personally, I like to use silver as my "metal" of choice. This time of year though, gold is the most popular choice. Gold is warm, along with copper and bronze, while silver and platinum are cool. Gold can be used for smaller, more intimate gatherings, while silver can be used for larger gatherings to promote more mingling.

For your party or Thanksgiving menu, include foods that represent the colors purple, green, and metals (silver/gold/copper). Examples of green foods are:

• Lettuce, celery, artichokes, green beans, broccoli, peas
• Cucumber
• Green bell peppers, zucchini, spinach
• Olive oil
• Green grapes, kiwi, limes, pears, green apples
• Tofu, curds, natural yogurt
• Peppermint, parsley, tarragon, garlic, fennel, comfrey, oregano

Examples of purple/violet foods are:

• Eggplant
• Purple grapes, plums
• Beets, radicchio, purple cabbage, globe artichokes
• Purple sage, thyme, feverfew, lavender

From the above examples, envision a veggie plate and appetizers. Now I'm not telling you to forgo the turkey, but make some of these additions. Here are some menu suggestions to try (recipes can be found online or in cookbooks):

• Spinach pasta (or any other green pasta) and asparagus salad
• Avocado dip w/chicory
• Lemon and zucchini quiche
• Glazed baby beets (a personal fave!!)
• Eggplant puree
• Purple plum pie (see photo above; yum!!)
• Purple broccoli salad
• Lavender tea
• Lavender ice cream

Remember the most important goal in planning any type of holiday party: you should be able to spend time with your guests. Make dishes that are easy to prepare and can be shared by all your guests. Set up buffet tables or serving areas in different parts of the main gathering room for your appetizers, main courses, and desserts to get people mingling and moving around the party instead of sitting in the same place.

Harmony Tip: For a more formal party, it may be worth hiring one or more people to help clear and serve so you can pay attention to your guests.

You can also create a great ambience using aromatherapy. Each element also corresponds with a particular scent. The Water element can be "activated" by using Bergamot and Geranium scents. When using any type of aroma fragrancing in your space, make sure you are using essential oils and/or candles that are made of natural ingredients and burn using only cotton wicks. My products division, 3E Products, offers Environment Sprays that correspond with the Bagua Board in Feng Shui. The Wealth/Abundance spray is Bergamot. My November "pick 3" offers are Bergamot (Abundance), Ylang Ylang (Relationships) and Lemongrass (Family). Visit my Bante Design site for more info.

Incorporating any of these tips can help you plan a great holiday party or decorate your home for Abundance in this time of harvest and giving thanks for all we have. We're in some crazy times right now, and it's important that we keep our family and friends close and give thanks for all that we do and all that we still have.

And in keeping with the theme of this column, THANK YOU to all who choose to read this column and my family, friends, and associates who have supported me personally and professionally! Have a wonderful, festive, and abundant November.

DeAnna Radaj, owner of Bante Design LLC and its production division Eden Place Productions, is a designer who specializes in Integrative Lifestyle Design (the fusion of Eastern and Western interior design philosophies incorporating feng shui and healthy home principles). Ms. Radaj is an author/columnist, design consultant, and national speaker on topics like Health Home Design, Feng Shui, Design Tips & Trends, and Clutter (Why We Have It and How to Get Rid of It!). Ms. Radaj is the former editor of the WI ASID newsletter which featured her column, "The Business of Design," and she has been featured in print, radio, and TV. She has authored Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In and Feng Shui for Teens, and is a weekly contributor to Design2Share, casaGURU, and the Diva Toolbox.

Photo credits: Bears Schoolhouse, Jetson Green, Keetsa, eHow, All Posters, Domestic Bliss, MSNBC

The leaves are changing colors, the nights are cooler, kids are back in school, and our thoughts are turning to our home interiors. Whether it’s getting that kitchen remodel done before the holidays or re-doing a college-bound youngster’s room into a study, fall is the time we research and start these projects. As we are contemplating these large or small changes, please consider "healthy” or eco-friendly alternatives when painting, buying furniture and accessories, or just rearranging how your home is set up. You'll have amazing results when employing healthy home design, and even feng shui; it will uplift your entire family's mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. Healthy home design is especially important for those who suffer from upper respiratory ailments, asthma, and allergies and headaches, and it is beneficial for those who have or are expecting babies and the elderly.

Let’s take a quick look at feng shui. Feng shui is a 5,000-year-old practice that translates in English as “wind and water.” It’s the Chinese art (some would say "science") of placement in that you are working in harmony with your environment, no matter what that is (cubicle, individual room, house, etc.). Feng shui utilizes the 5 Elements (fire, water, earth, wood, metal), color, and personal auspicious symbols. Personal auspicious symbols are defined as any items that are used and/or have positive attachments or "good fortune." There are 9 Life Areas that are identified in feng shui and the Bagua board, which can be activated by color, shape, and element.

I would suggest reading some books, or finding a feng shui master in your area for a consultation. Feng shui works with Mother Nature in that you want a flowing traffic pattern, utilizing the Elements and organic shapes and the realization that energy is a moving force in nature as well as in our living and work spaces. Once we acknowledge this and understand the flow of energy or chi in our home and how to activate or reduce it in the various Life Areas, we will live more centered, balanced lives. Feng shui incorporates space-planning, color, and accessorizing just like we were taught in design school; it's all just coming from another design philosophy.

Consider having a feng shui master or consultant visit your home so that you can get your house in order for this coming holiday season.

How do you start to migrate over to a healthy home makeover this fall? I always suggest that my clients start by doing a MAJOR de-clutter and purge. It’s okay to start small, but you must go through each room, closet, drawer, and cabinet and ask yourself: Do I LOVE it? Do I USE it? Do I NEED it? If you don’t answer with a yes to any of the questions, you must get rid of it. If you have a hard time with this, you aren’t alone. I teach workshops on getting rid of clutter, and there is always a wait list with men and women, young and old. After your purge, do a general house cleaning, and use natural household cleaners. Sun and Earth, Seventh Generation, and Natural Choices are all wonderful products that are available in mainstream channels. There are also some great books out there if you have the time and energy to make your own cleaners (Green Clean is one of my favs!). Here are some other tips to help you to detox your home as you prepare this fall for healthier winter hibernation:

• Use natural hygiene products and cleaners. The alternative is chemicals that, when made, pollute the environment, our homes, and our bodies.
• Go organic when possible. Food (buy local and in season), clothing (man-made fibers are petroleum based and also include formaldehyde -- that new smell)), and linens.
• Buy no-VOC paints and finishes. All major paint manufacturers now make low- or no-VOC paint. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are the chemicals and toxins used to inhibit mold and quicken dry time, or that "new paint smell.”
  
• Eliminate plastics and vinyls from your home. Studies have shown that PVC also off-gases like VOCs and have been shown to cause certain types of cancers. Yes, this includes your shower curtain!
• Candles are a leading cause of indoor air pollution (which studies have shown to be worse than outdoor air), and with the fall and winter holidays coming up, you will be burning more candles when you entertain. The big offender here is the wick. Wicks in most inexpensive candles are made with lead. Lead has been shown to cause a variety of illness. When purchasing candles for ambience, look at the wick, and if you see a metal core, DO NOT BUY IT! Some wicks will be made with zinc, which is okay, however the best choice is cotton. Wicks with metal are the cause of sooting and black smoke that can stain walls. Look for candles made from beeswax, palm or soy wax, and scented with natural botanicals and/or essential oils.

Each room in your house is fair game this fall for a makeover that maximizes your family's health. Start systematically and work with one room at a time. Stay focused. Once you've completed your reorganization, remodeling, or healthy reorienting in one room, you can tackle the next. These are perfect projects for the cold-weather months, and will help you and your family to a healthier hibernation during the winter months when you spend most of your time indoors.

Bedroom

The bedroom is the most important room of the home. We spend a third of our lives sleeping. It's imperative that this room is chemical/toxin free and promotes rest and restoration, as well as romance. In feng shui, the bedroom is related to the Relationship area of the Bagua board. To activate this area (bring about and nurture a relationship in business, romance, or friendship), arrange items in pairs to signify couples. Use the Earth element here and the colors red (legally binding relationship), pink (single and looking), and coral (single and not looking). If you want to think romance, there should not be any pictures of family or friends in this room; it’s for you and your significant other. That being said, there should be no TV, computer, or exercise equipment in this room either. If you need a TV here, hide it away in a media cabinet or use a pop-up TV that can be easily concealed when not in use. But here is the simple wisdom behind this room: the bedroom is for two things, and watching TV and working on the computer are not among them! Here are a few more tips:

• Keep this room clutter-free, especially under the bed. Air needs to be able to circulate around the body to rejuvenate. Clutter is a dust collector. If you haven’t purged yet, do it.
• Keep electronic items to a bare minimum in this room to reduce the EMFs. If you must have an electronic alarm clock and/or phone in the room, keep them at least 3 feet from your head to reduce this risk.
• Beds should always have a headboard for support.
• Place your bed in the power position of the room. This is the opposite corner from the doorway upon entering the room. This is the most psychologically secure position in the room. Stay away from placing the bed where your feet are in direct line with the door. This is called the “death position” (we traditionally bring dead bodies out of a room feet first, hence the name).
• Buy the most luxurious linens you can afford. This will add to the sensuality of the room.
• Color schemes should be in cool colors (blues, greens, purples) as this helps promote sleep and relaxation. When adding passion, introduce your reds and pinks.
• Lastly, lie down on your bed and see what the view is. It should be something pleasant. You shouldn't be looking into the bathroom! This is the first and last thing you see before you fall asleep, and this view will stay with you subconsciously. Make it a great view because I want you to have pleasant dreams.

Kitchen

Just as the bedroom is related to the Relationship area of the Bagua, the Kitchen is related to the Wealth/Abundance area of the home. Keep all appliances and plumbing in working order to keep "wealth” and prosperity in your family. This room is for gathering and nourishing; keep this in mind when designing or remodeling this room. Buy the best quality kitchen tools and food ingredients you can afford to promote good wealth energy. Other tips for the kitchen:

• Keep this room free of needless clutter. All flat surfaces seem to attract stuff, but resist this tendency! Keep all small appliances that are used infrequently stored away in cabinets. Knives should also be kept away when not in use; they emit negative, cutting energy.
• The color scheme here should be warm and inviting-reds, earth-tones, and white are perfect here. Stay away from red and orange though if you are trying to lose weight. These colors tend to increase appetite. Think of the colors used in fast food restaurants! Use blue if you're looking for weight control goals as blue tends to “gray out" food and reduce the appetite. Another good choice is white; it's the perfect color for plates as it won’t distract from the food you're serving.
• When you're cooking at the stove, make sure your back is not to the door. You want to be able to see who is coming and going and not be surprised. If your back is to the door and this can’t be changed, hang a reflective surface above the stove (pots, mirrored tiles and switch plates, or a single mirror). This accomplishes two things: people can’t sneak up behind you and the stove’s burners are “doubled” by the reflection, which symbolically doubles the wealth of your family.
• Since this room is about abundance and nourishment, keep pesticides out of this room. PERIOD. Use only natural cleaning products and keep this a chemical- and toxin-free zone.

Living Room

More tips for the Living Room:

• Think warm colors for your color scheme. Earth tones here are great for grounding and they go with any color you want to bring in for an accent.
• The head of the household’s seat needs to be placed in the power position of the room. This seat can be given up to a guest if the host so chooses.
• Flexible lighting is key in this area. Due to the variety of activities that take place in this room, think carefully about the three types of lighting: general or overhead, task (desk, reading), and accent.

Bathroom

More tips for the bathroom:

• Keep the toilet seat down, doors shut, and drains closed (have a drain cover, do not leave your drains exposed or wide open). The bathroom is also related to family finances and health so you want to keep all “means of escape” closed.
• Mirrors, crystals and sun catchers are wonderful in this room to create rainbows and bring in light and keep the eye moving up.
• There are no rules on color in this room, so you can be as bold and bright as your personality allows.
• Keep all plumbing in good working order. Fix all leaks immediately; you don’t want to waste water and/or create bigger problems.
• Purchase natural bath and body products and bathroom cleaners. You’re doing a lot to create a healthy environment so why would you want to poison your body? If a product has an ingredient that is labeled “fragrance,” it’s a synthetic, petroleum-based product. Don't buy it.

Home Office

• Artwork and accessories in this space should include items that represent success and the career you are in (or want to be in). If there is a client you want, post their business card in a prominent place where it will be in constant view as a visual reminder. A picture of a mountain can be placed behind the desk chair for support and to offer protection from behind.
• A large area rug should be placed in this room to anchor the space and keep the occupant grounded.
• Task lighting is very important here. Save your eyes!
• Color schemes in this space should include earth tones (for grounding), blues (for communication), black (for career,) and red (for success and energy).
• Natural light and ventilation are important in all rooms, but particularly here due to the bombardment of EMFs in this space. Open up the windows year round to allow some fresh air to circulate, utilize crystals and sun catchers to “capture” the sun and disperse colorful light throughout the space, and maximize outside views with mirrors.

Harmony Tip: Follow my quick maintenance checklist to keep your living space healthy. Start implementing the list this fall, and you and your family will have a healthier life in the coming year.

Monthly: Vacuum or wipe down return and delivery vents to keep dust from blowing around. Wash refrigerator drip pans to keep mold away.

Bi-monthly: Change furnace filters in winter months. Use HEPA pleated filters which have more surface area to collect dirt and dust.

Annually: Have your furnace inspected to ensure that it’s not leaking carbon monoxide.

Bi-annually: Have forced-air ducts cleaned. Do not use fragrance or antimicrobial chemicals. If someone has allergies or asthma, do this cleaning on an annual basis.

DeAnna Radaj, owner of Bante Design LLC and its production division Eden Place Productions, is a designer who specializes in Integrative Lifestyle Design (the fusion of Eastern and Western interior design philosophies incorporating feng shui and healthy home principles). Ms. Radaj is an author/columnist, design consultant, and national speaker on topics like Health Home Design, Feng Shui, Design Tips & Trends, and Clutter (Why We Have It and How to Get Rid of It!). Ms. Radaj is the former editor of the WI ASID newsletter which featured her column, "The Business of Design," and she has been featured in print, radio, and TV. She has authored Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In and Feng Shui for Teens, and is a weekly contributor to Design2Share, casaGURU, and the Diva Toolbox.

Photo credits: Lavender and Limes, Best Home Design, Fortunate Blessings, Squidoo/FengShui Style, Fun Shui/HGTV, MessageNote.com, Self Help Salon

DeAnna Radaj -- Welcome to my Design2Share column, Harmony2Share. We’ll be using a lot of the principles of feng shui and Integrative Lifestyle Design to add greater harmony – and all the good benefits of a life well lived – to your home environment.

As we prepare for our winter hibernation—at least those of us in the Northern climes, we start to pay more attention to our homes. They’re our inner sanctuaries. Now, even if you don’t live in the “frozen tundra” of Green Bay, WI, the rainy Pacific Northwest, or on the northern border in Maine, as Fall sets in and the weather begins to cool a bit, you can start to adopt a “cocooning” process like our ancestors and animal friends. Since you aren’t spending as much time outdoors as in previous months, you’re forced to look at either your bare, white walls or walls covered with cheap artwork that “just hung there” to fill the space. Yuck.

Part of my personal design philosophy is to “bring the outdoors in.” I achieve this through photos, artwork, painting techniques, and furniture and textile choices. There is much research in the healthcare field on how bringing Mother Nature indoors helps relax patients and promotes the healing process.

Harmony Tip: Going outside is “natural Prozac,” with green being the most calming of all colors.

Being outside, walking barefoot in the grass and truly connecting with nature can lower your blood pressure and heart rate. It’s no wonder that lots of windows with great views are a highly coveted feature in most residential spaces.

Harmony Tip: When you look at the artwork and other accessories you display on your walls, use the same Feng Shui principles that apply to all other furnishings and clutter in your home: Do you LOVE it? Do you USE it? Do you NEED it?

Harmony Tip: See what Life Areas of the bagua you have containing empty walls, un-needed items, or items you dislike but keep; then analyze if these are Life Areas you are stuck or having problems with.

Nora Batternay is an internationally-renowned photographer based in NYC. Her photos have been exhibited in Europe, Los Angeles, and New York. She offers a natural, fresh, and sincere approach to each project and subject. While she specializes in architectural photo shoots, she can photograph your family or event to capture the “extraordinary in the most ordinary” circumstances. What sets Nora apart from other photographers is that she also does custom fine art for designers and their clients. The designer and/or their client describes their vision for the space in terms of color, theme, and the feeling that they want the space (or the piece of art) to invoke. While Nora specializes in abstract works, she has worked with nature themes and black & white images. She works on a variety of media such as canvas, metal watercolor prints (a unique process she’s developed), and digital artwork.

Interested in seeing more types of artwork or commissioning a few items for holiday gifts? Nora Batternay can put together a catalog for you to peruse and get ideas.

My new favorite is Midori Tajiri, a Chicago-based artist who also works in a variety of media. Midori is a cancer survivor who states that her artwork has evolved in a “more positive manner” since her diagnosis. Her work now is more “hopeful” and inspirational. I got to see some of the digital images of her artwork and was very impressed. Midori works with paper, paint, and layering of mixed media. She told me that she then “stitches” papers together to give added texture and construction to her art. Her use of color, or sometimes a lack thereof, in some parts of her art really is amazing. She uses color to draw your eye to what she wants to highlight in her work. Midori’s ancestry includes samurais, and they have added a wonderful cultural aspect to her artwork.

DeAnna Radaj, owner of Bante Design LLC and its production division Eden Place Productions, is a designer who specializes in Integrative Lifestyle Design (the fusion of Eastern and Western interior design philosophies incorporating feng shui and healthy home principles). Ms. Radaj is an author/columnist, design consultant, and national speaker on topics like Health Home Design, Feng Shui, Design Tips & Trends, and Clutter (Why We Have It and How to Get Rid of It!). Ms. Radaj is the former editor of the WI ASID newsletter which featured her column, "The Business of Design," and she has been featured in print, radio, and TV. She has authored Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In and Feng Shui for Teens, and is a weekly contributor to Design2Share, casaGURU, and the Diva Toolbox.

Photo credits: daylife, World Photographic Arts, Anatomically Correct, Sky Factory

On a beautiful September afternoon, driving home from the office with the top down on the car, I enjoyed the warmth of the sunshine as I sang along with the radio, but what to my wandering eyes do appear? NO, not a jolly old elf with his eight tiny reindeer, but a driveway lined with jack-o-lanterns! BUT IT'S STILL SUMMER I scream to myself mentally, counting down the days until fall’s official arrival (9 days left). I continued on my way back to my yard, the "Sunflower Compound," and stopped to pick up some salad. What greeted me at the entrance? MORE PUMPKINS!

I should give some background on my aversion to pumpkins in summer, or Christmas trees being displayed in malls in August for that matter. In my retail days, we would be forced to listen to the sounds of jingling bells, silver and gold decorations, and being sung to that “Santa Claus is coming to town” for hours on end, starting early in November and droning on through the end of December. Holiday decorations were up in the mall, department stores, and some smaller stores starting in August. By Thanksgiving you could care less about “goodwill to men,” and once December 24^th rolled around, all you wanted to do was go home and hide until after New Year.

I instructed our stores that any holiday merchandise was to be placed in the back, available if a customer wanted it, but not displayed front and center. No holiday decorations were to be put up until the day before Thanksgiving. When I was a buyer, I had to be thinking up to 9 months ahead of time. All Christmas buying had to be completed by July to ensure on-time delivery, so by the time December rolled around, I was already thinking ahead to summer promotions and ads.

Which is all a bit of personal background for getting back in harmony with the seasons and in sync with Mother Nature. Ancient man lived in harmony with the cycles of the moon and changing seasons to predict growing and harvesting times. With the advent of electricity, we weren’t dependent on the sun any more to tell us when to wake or sleep. And we moved more to urban living, away from the agrarian society we came from. We started to become detached from nature and its cycles. With a separation from nature, we risk becoming un-balanced and un-centered.

Harmony Tip: SAD, seasonal affective disorder, is caused by not getting enough exposure to sunlight. The result is a lack of melatonin being produced in the system, causing depression and anxiety. There are special light boxes that are available for SAD sufferers to sit in front of to absorb “produced” sun’s rays.

Okay, DeAnna, what has my “not going outside” or displaying my Santa decorations in August have to do with home design? A lot, it turns out. I believe that in our hectic world, we can literally go through the day without stepping outside or walking in nature. We go from the house through the mudroom to the garage. We get into our cars, drive into a covered lot, and walk into our place of business. Repeat in reverse on the ride home.

Our homes and offices are sealed to prevent drafts, air is recycled throughout the living space, and windows rarely open. From a health standpoint this is horrible, especially in the winter months. From a design standpoint, does it make sense, unless it’s for a party or a themed room, to decorate for Christmas when we haven’t even hit Halloween yet?

Bau Biology is the study of the health of a building or “sick building syndrome.” This was first studied by the Germans in the 1970s. They studied the effects of ventilation and electrical systems, construction materials, and techniques on the health of the building’s occupants. We’ve all experienced this when one person in an office gets a cold, then everyone gets sick.

In my first book, Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In, one of the chapters focused on “bringing the outside in” to live more in harmony with nature and try to get back to our roots. Being outside in nature, whether it’s walking barefoot in the grass, watching birds, sitting in your beloved hammock or working in the garden, you derive the benefits of all that Mother Nature has to offer. If you live in a northern climate and being outside isn’t feasible 12 months a year (unless you’re a snow bunny!), you can still invite nature indoors through:

• Opening a window or door for a couple of minutes a day to circulate air throughout the house.
• Displaying artwork or photographs of outdoor scenes.
• Having a tabletop fountain.
• Including plants, flowers, and herbs in containers.
• Decorating with furniture and accessories made of natural materials. 
• Filling a decorative bowl or apothecary jar with stones, sand, or any other tactile item found outside.
• Including bowls of live, growing grass or catnip.

As far as decorating is concerned, accessorizing your home and/or office with the seasons is easily done and creates a great energy in your space. One of my clients decorates her formal dining room and living room according to the season and holiday. It helps to set a festive tone the house and gets everyone in the mood for upcoming holidays. I have a friend who collects dishes; she has 4 complete sets of dishes in 4 different colors and themes. At every solstice or equinox, she has a party to “unveil” her Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer set of dishes. It’s a great way to use decor pieces she loves, have a party, and set the tone/mood/energy for the changing season.

You're not in synch with the seasonal cycles of nature when you decorate for a holiday too soon, have a mish-mash of seasons/holidays (autumn leaves scattered on a table with a snowman collection), or leave seasonal items up way past the expiration date (we’ve all seen the holiday lights left up until May). By decorating too soon, you aren’t living in the present, but in the future. You must live in the present to BE present in your life right now. By having a mish-mash of items out, you are scattered (or at least displaying that you are), create an atmosphere of not being here or there, and surrounding yourself with indecision. And with the other extreme, by leaving seasonal/holiday decorations out past their “due date” you are living in the past, or at the very least surrounding yourself with a lazy and procrastinating atmosphere.

Leaving seasonal items out past their expiration date and/or usefulness is a lot like filling your space up with clutter. You're not inviting new and positive energy into your home. Instead, you're creating rather dead, stagnant energy in your space and inviting the scorn of your neighbors and other passersby who will judge (we’ve all done it!); and that only sends negative energy your way. Also, don’t you chide yourself when you are being lazy or procrastinating, joining the “shoulda, woulda, coulda” club. This club is notorious for making us feel bad about ourselves and heaping on the guilt. Don’t join, rush, or pledge this club!

Harmony Tip: Have you ever noticed that the longer you wait to accomplish a task, the longer it ultimately takes to finish it? Make a list, mark up a calendar, or do whatever it takes to get organized and get your projects finished in a timely manner. For example, all jack-o-lanterns must be disposed of before you can smell them rotting away by your front door.

By trying to live in harmony with Mother Nature, the changing seasons, and decorating our spaces appropriately, we will be in sync with the world around us. This will help to reduce stress, anxiety, and some depression as we will be living in the present, not the past or the future. Will merely going outside for 15 minutes every day, taking down the Valentine’s Day hearts by March, and not displaying snowmen year round bring you a stress-free home life? No, but you will be more present in your present, and that’s all any of us can ask for.

DeAnna Radaj, owner of Bante Design LLC and its production division Eden Place Productions, is a designer who specializes in Integrative Lifestyle Design (the fusion of Eastern and Western interior design philosophies incorporating feng shui and healthy home principles). Ms. Radaj is an author/columnist, design consultant, and national speaker on topics like Health Home Design, Feng Shui, Design Tips & Trends, and Clutter (Why We Have It and How to Get Rid of It!). Ms. Radaj is the former editor of the WI ASID newsletter which featured her column, "The Business of Design," and she has been featured in print, radio, and TV. She has authored Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In and Feng Shui for Teens, and is a weekly contributor to Design2Share, casaGURU, and the Diva Toolbox.

Photo credits: Franklin MA Schools, Creative Solutions, Mother Earthbeats, Christmas Central

As I sat at home on a perfect Labor Day, my thoughts turned to what my topic would be for this week’s column. Alas, nothing came to mind. Last week was rather hectic with a new client, planning for September workshops, and the Mother of All Thrills: dealing with one of my banks and the police regarding a “compromised” debit card.

Yes, last week was fabulous. So, it was with great anticipation that the holiday weekend arrived. I had visions of grandeur of all that I would work on, however, the weather was perfect and I didn’t want to waste one of the summer’s last great weekends working on projects inside. After the busy week, all I really wanted to do was be a slug . . . and that's what I was.

The problem with wanting to be a slug is the inevitable guilt that creeps in when you find yourself with some downtime. Your recourse might be with a remote and some bad TV, or you give in to perfect weather and a hammock that calls you outside to sit and sway in the breeze. 

To get through the craziness that life throws at us when we least expect it, we need to get over the guilt of being inactive around the house and simply take moments to decompress, de-stress, and just “be” for awhile.

Harmony Tip: Eckert Tolle, in his book A New Earth, focuses on the act of “non-reaction.” When a situation, positive or negative, presents itself to you, it is best to acknowledge it and then decide if there is anything at the moment you can do about it. If there is, do it; if not, you must let it go. Worrying about something you have no control over, or can’t act upon immediately serves only to make you crazy. I have been trying to incorporate this into my everyday life to some success. I am trying to get better at practicing the art of letting go and just “being.”

Okay, DeAnna, you say, I don’t have dogs or a yard that requires me to take care of birds or anything. Now what? Well, you can still walk, meditate, read, or throw some Jimmy Buffet tunes on your iPod. Close your eyes and pretend you’re at the beach! I have a friend who is planning a move to Florida, and whenever she gets discouraged or needs a “touchstone” to her dream, she sticks her hand in a jar that is filled with sand she brought back from Florida on one of her trips. On a particularly bad time in winter, she actually poured some sand out and stuck her feet in it! Do whatever it takes to "be."

When I’m traveling and am dog-less, I try to walk as much as possible. This is vital, especially if you're trapped inside at meetings, at a convention, or just need to clear the cobwebs. You also don’t know what will show up in your path! You might find a great new restaurant or coffee shop (with a cute barista!), a new neighbor, or a quicker path to work. At the very least, you're breathing fresh air and getting re-energized.

Harmony Tip: From a Feng Shui and a wellness standpoint, make sure you get at least 30 minutes of fresh air every day. This includes days with inclement weather! Open a window or door, run around your yard (even if your neighbors will think you're a nut job), or open your car windows.

DeAnna Radaj is an interior designer who specializes in Integrative Lifestyle Design (the fusion of Eastern and Western interior design philosophies incorporating feng shui and healthy home principles to create a balanced, healthy and supportive space). She is the owner of Bante Design LLC and its production division, Eden Place Productions. Ms. Radaj is a national speaker on topics ranging from Healthy Home design for all family members (children, adults, and pets), Feng shui, easy design tips and trends and exploring a problem most of us have -- CLUTTER (why we have it and how to get rid of it!). Ms. Radaj was the editor of the WI ASID newsletter, which featured her column The Business of Design, and has been featured in M, Milwaukee Home, and MKE and frequently in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She has also been a featured guest on radio and TV. Her first book, Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In, hit #1 on Amazon.com in its category (October 2006) and continues to sell well in the U.S. and the U.K. Her second book, Feng Shui for Teens, was released in April 2007.

Photo credits: Praying for Grace, Eckhart Teachings, Daddy Gifts

I just came back from the New York Gift Show. The Show takes place two times a year in New York City and at various other venues across the U.S. The big Gift Show -- along with EX*TRACTS -- features new products, companies, and trends for the upcoming year. It was with much anticipation that I watched the Show to see how the GREEN movement is affecting the gift industry, learn what the hot colors will be for merchandising, and discover the sure-fire-can’t-miss products that all retailers, and thusly, all homes will need to have for the holidays.

My reasoning for wanting to write about my experience at the Javitts Center at this year's show? It was due to some “interactions” with a few vendors and manufacturers reps. Here were the big buzz words at this August's Gift Show: GREEN, eco-friendly, organic, and sustainability. They were featured in sales pitches and ads, but it was clear after a short conversation that many of the people selling products at the show had no clue as to what constituted GREEN, eco-friendly, organic, and sustainability.

Here's an example: I  spoke with a vendor who was advertising their product as “natural fibers,” yet they were selling leather. While leather is “natural,” it’s an animal hide! It’s not a fiber at all. When you think of a natural fiber, think cotton, for instance. So in my effort to educate and inform, and to avoid future confrontations at upcoming Gift Shows (!), here are definitions of some of the big buzz words of the GREEN movement. Knowing them will help you become a more conscious homeowner, consumer, and/or design professional. 

VEGAN

ORGANIC

CRUELTY-FREE

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE

SUSTAINABLE

LIFE CYCLE

This refers to the notion that a fair, holistic assessment of any product requires looking into its raw material production, manufacturing processes, means of distribution, and the product's use and disposal (including all intervening transportation steps necessary to get this product from where it came from to your home). The sum of all those steps, or phases, is the life cycle of a product, the sum total of everything that happens because of the product's existence.

Here is a soybean example: the planting of soy beans, the subsequent care and harvesting of the soy, the transportation to the factory for processing, and then the final processing procedure to make the soy beans into whatever the chosen product is . . . and then how the product is or can be disposed of -- or recycled and reused in some fashion.

CRADLE-TO-GRAVE

This term refers to the FULL life-cycle assessment of any product, from its manufacture (the cradle) to its use phase and disposal phase (the grave). This philosophy and its focus on manufacturing and its impact on the environment has been a key concern of designer/author William McDonough. Look for his books!

Here's an example: a tree helps to produce paper, which is then recycled into low-energy production cellulose (fiberised paper) insulation, then used as an energy-saving device in the ceiling of a home for 40 years, saving 2000x the fossil-fuel energy used in its production. After the 40 years, the cellulose fibers are replaced and the old fibers are disposed of, possibly incinerated as a part of the waste-to-energy process.

CRADLE-TO-GATE

FAIR TRADE

CRADLE-TO-CRADLE

GREEN-WASHING

Green-washing is running rampant now as everyone is trying to jump on the GREEN bandwagon. Think of the Gift Show vendor I met who was trying to pass leather off as a “natural fiber."

Alright, now that you've been guided through all of the GREEN lingo that’s out there, here are some of the trends that I found at Javitts' big Gift Show last week.

• The #1 hot item was eco-friendly, reusable shopping bags. These were all over the place. Variety of bright colors, materials (organic cotton, hemp, cork, paper, peat), and graphics.
• Organic and/or natural products for pets -- particularly dogs (a quick shout out to my pooches Libby & Ossie!). This includes toys, treats, accessories, clothing, and beds. I also spotted spa products for dogs (towels, bath accessories), travel accessories (beds, folding water dishes, blankets), and beach toys.
• Products FEATURING dogs were also hot for the dog lovers. Sorry, feline friends. Products include door stops, pillows, wall art, and totes.

Most holiday buying for retailers has already been done by July and ready to ship to locations in August. Most buyers at the July and August gift shows are already looking at what to stock their stores with in the next calendar year.

• Anything French was hot at the Gift Show! From the Eiffel Tower to French phrases put on anything; the French, French culture, and products made in France were HOT! Viva la France.
• Watch for lots of photography but integrated in new mediums (i.e. put on metals) and new shapes -- circular photos were big.
• Reusable wall art and stickers was another interesting category. This includes frame stickers (perfect for a teenager's room where change is constant) and art work that could be placed and moved again. This is an inexpensive way to create gallery walls and avoid nail holes!
• One of my favorite things at the show were very cool ottomans in the shape of animals. These would be perfect for a kid’s room, a media room, family room, or den. Shapes included dogs, rhinos, elephants, hippos, and pigs.
• Organic bedding was everywhere: this includes organic cotton, organic silk, and bamboo. A new category was organic bedding for the nursery -- great colors and designs.

Silk has taken a bad rap from some due to the fact that the silkworms are killed in the silk-making process. But organic silk is now available. Silkworms now live out their full 72-hour lifespan and the silk fibers are made into fabulous bedding, frames, and other accessories. Watch for it!

• There is new artful decorative hardware choices for kitchen and bath décor (e.g. toilet handles) in various shapes. Handles include: dolphins, golf clubs, wine bottles, and sea themes. There are matching towel bars, tissue holders, robe hooks, drawer pulls, and knobs. Check out Functional Fine Art for styles.
• Socially responsible & Fair Trade jewelry was also a hot category. I liked the story bracelets from Praols Story Bracelets. These bracelets are unique, lead-free, and handcrafted in the USA. They are packaged with an inspirational message and ready to give as gifts.
• Finally, who knew umbrellas could be GREEN? Leighton Umbrellas has gone eco-friendly with their new line made from recycled materials! Three styles available include The Natural (most popular style with eco-friendly materials), The Shield (an eco-friendly Golf Umbrella), and The Protector (comes with an auto open/close mechanism).

Armed with your new knowledge of GREEN vocabulary and some of the upcoming gift trends for 2009, you can discern what is truly eco-friendly and what is spin. Knowing what's truly GREEN will help you determine what's the best choice for you and your family. Will you go VEGAN? How about buying more Fair Trade? You will know the difference between organic and socially responsible, be a better-informed consumer, and make decisions that will help you and your family live a more harmonious life.

DeAnna Radaj is an interior designer who specializes in Integrative Lifestyle Design (the fusion of Eastern and Western interior design philosophies incorporating feng shui and healthy home principles to create a balanced, healthy and supportive space). She is the owner of Bante Design LLC and its production division, Eden Place Productions. Ms. Radaj is a national speaker on topics ranging from Healthy Home design for all family members (children, adults, and pets), Feng shui, easy design tips and trends and exploring a problem most of us have -- CLUTTER (why we have it and how to get rid of it!). Ms. Radaj was the editor of the WI ASID newsletter, which featured her column The Business of Design, and has been featured in M, Milwaukee Home, and MKE and frequently in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She has also been a featured guest on radio and TV. Her first book, Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In, hit #1 on Amazon.com in its category (October 2006) and continues to sell well in the U.S. and the U.K. Her second book, Feng Shui for Teens, was released in April 2007.

Photo credits: Gifts & Decorative Accessories, Faith Justice, Dwell Studio, Creme of Nature, Susty

We've focused lately on feng shui and common-sense principles for your car. Many families will be shopping for new cars during the end-of-summer sales around Labor Day Weekend, so let's shift gears to look at GREEN considerations with new cars.

GOING GREEN is a good goal for everyone, right? Did you know that the transportation sector contributes more carbon dioxide than any other industry? With the focus on GREEN this and GREEN that, you’d think that the auto industry would benefit the most from new technologies. But most car companies are looking at reducing car emissions and increasing gas mileage instead of looking at the entire lifecycle of the car manufacturing process. This is all fine and dandy, but until we have the infrastructure required for hydrogen cars (keep those cell phones off!) and an updated electrical grid for electric cars, improving the lifecycle of the manufacturing process seems like the quickest and best short-term solution. Fortunately, some car companies are looking at their carbon footprint and helping improve the environment around them, creating a healthier environment for their workers -- and for the rest of us.

Harmony Tip: Some car companies don’t offer leather seats, to please GREEN consumers. Check out the Toyota Prius, Ford Escape Hybrid, and BMW’s synthetic suede option for seats, upholstery, and steering wheels. Even Mercedes Benz offers a “no leather” package.

Here are some of the GREEN car manufacturers that are taking Corporate Responsibility to a new level. Consider them when you're new car shopping.

Subaru

You know that can of garbage that gets picked up weekly by the sanitation department and hauled off to a landfill every week? That ‘s more garbage than Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. (SIA) sends to a landfill EVERY YEAR! Subaru calls it “Corporate Social Responsibility,” but it goes beyond anything any other auto manufacturer does. Back in 2002, SIA designated 800 acres as a National Wildlife Federation Backyard Wildlife Habitat, becoming the first in the auto manufacturing industry. In the same year, they also received the International Organization for Standardization 14001 Recertification, a cornerstone of the environmental management award. Subaru’s marketing campaign has been Think, Feel, Drive, but inside their corporation, it’s Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Through Subaru’s commitment to the environment, they have reduced solvents by 79%, sludge by 61%, and oils by 6,000 gallons a year. The result: Subaru has reduced its Toxic Release Inventory by 40%. Their reuse project is just as impressive: 33,000 brass lug nuts that used to be thrown out now go back to the manufacturer AND Subaru gets a discount, reducing costs as well as reducing landfill waste in landfills. Over 35,000 gallons of solvent are reused annually, along with 34M pounds of packaging material. (Want to buy a Subaru yet?) Due to their efforts, Subaru has achieved a 99% recycling rate. They even chip the 378,000 pounds of wood pallets from the factory and use it around the almost 35,000 trees on the grounds of their manufacturing facility. That’s GREEN!

Allegiant Global Services helped Subaru achieve 0% landfill in less than 2 years. The key was looking at each piece of refuse, from Styrofoam packaging to oil caps, and considering whether it will be used in one of its original or secondary forms. Here’s an example: old tires, no longer fit for the road, can be grated and used in children’s playgrounds. More waste is given to Covina Energy, where the waste creates steam which is then converted into energy. In fact the EPA has estimated that Waste to Energy (WTE) produces electricity with less environmental impact than almost any other source of electricity. Covent processes approximately 15 tons of waste or 5% of the energy needs for Indianapolis and its surrounding county.

Toyota

More than a ¼ of the adult population, or approximately 56M people, say they look for products that are “healthy and sustainable.” Research also suggests these people are willing to pay a higher price for environmentally-friendly products.

Lotus

Lotus, a high-end sports car manufacturer, is not a company whose cars you’d think of as being environmentally friendly, but even this car has gone GREEN! Their new car, the Eco Elise, incorporates sustainable materials such as locally-grown hemp (used in the seats and composite body panels), sisal, eco-wool, and a high-tech water-based paint in the body and trim. Fuel efficiency is improved by the lighter weight of the materials (with the same aluminum frame) and a “green gear change display.” Solar panels have also been added to the roof of the car to power the electrical system (stay clear if you live in Seattle!). They are also utilizing the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) in the manufacturing process. Environmental improvements at the Lotus factory have reduced annual electricity usage by 14%, gas by 30%, and water by 11%, while recycling 57% of their waste products.

Crossover consumers account for approximately $226.8 billion in sales of alternative and GREEN products which include organics, cruelty-free cosmetics, and hybrid and other low-emission vehicles.

While continuing to research other fuel alternatives (hydrogen, ethanol, electricity, and who knows what else!), car manufacturers are also acting in a more socially responsible manner in taking into account their carbon footprint. Some car makers are at least trying to practice the 3Rs more frequently. Car manufacturers are looking at the life cycle of their car products and are trying to reduce their carbon footprint. It goes far beyond what type of fuel a car is using. GREEN materials, like vegan foam (used in Saab cars) and hemp, to the life of the components and the technology used to help reduce emissions of solvents and CO2 in the life cycle of the vehicle are all factors you should consider when buying a new car that is in line with your GREEN home decorating.

Harmony Tip: The 2008 GREEN Car of the Year is the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, the first GM vehicle to use the company’s all-new 2-mode hybrid system. Other vehicles that were nominated include the Chevy Malibu Hybrid, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid, the Nissan Altima Hybrid, and the Saturn Aura Hybrid.

If there's a bottom line at all to this column, it's to please consider the GREENer side of new cars. Let your purchase dollars vote for products, including autos, that are environmentally responsible and thoughtfully manufactured. It makes both good sense and good CARma.

DeAnna Radaj is an interior designer who specializes in Integrative Lifestyle Design (the fusion of Eastern and Western interior design philosophies incorporating feng shui and healthy home principles to create a balanced, healthy and supportive space). She is the owner of Bante Design LLC and its production division, Eden Place Productions. Ms. Radaj is a national speaker on topics ranging from Healthy Home design for all family members (children, adults, and pets), Feng shui, easy design tips and trends and exploring a problem most of us have -- CLUTTER (why we have it and how to get rid of it!). Ms. Radaj was the editor of the WI ASID newsletter, which featured her column The Business of Design, and has been featured in M, Milwaukee Home, and MKE and frequently in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She has also been a featured guest on radio and TV. Her first book, Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In, hit #1 on Amazon.com in its category (October 2006) and continues to sell well in the U.S. and the U.K. Her second book, Feng Shui for Teens, was released in April 2007.

Photo credits: Uncrate, Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Toyota Prius, Ford Escape Hybrid, Treehugger, Text4Cars

If you want to brush up on some of the basics of feng shui (not needed for this column, but always good to know), type in "feng shui" in the Search D2S box on this page and you'll be able to access all our articles on the subject.

As we all try to pack in as many memories of fun in the sun as we can before the end of summer, we quickly travel to and fro, crisscrossing our cities, states, or country. Even as gas prices remain at historic highs, we still have a love affair with our cars. The freedom they represent (even if we only travel 10 miles to and from our jobs), the image they project (Corvettes and mid-life crisis; need I say more?), and the fact that they get us from Point A to Point B in a timely manner just adds fire to the romance. And, as life imitates the art of this column and I’m car shopping (!), we will explore how feng shui can help you pick and maintain the perfect car!

Harmony Tip: When looking at purchasing a new vehicle, think “How does this car make me feel?” If you hate the color, the fact that it’s a sedan, or whatever, you will instantly hate driving the car. That’s not good energy and it’s bad feng shui.

I should clarify that the following tips are for ALL vehicle types. Yes, you can even apply them to golf carts! (This is an actual project presented to me by my mother to help improve her golf game AND for the Golf Cart Parade in her condo community; stay tuned for future updates.) Not only can feng shui protect you and your loved ones from harm’s way, it can also augment your overall luck and positive energy. By considering your vehicle as an environment that can affect your mood, let’s use feng shui to help make driving a more pleasant and safe activity.

Do you get tired as soon as you hit the road?

Try tying a red tassel with bells attached to your rearview mirror. It will help ease the sudden fatigue. Remember, RED is a FIRE color and represents action and yang energy. The ringing of the bells will also help keep you focused and alert. The tinkling of bells and chimes also helps to ward off negative energy. I have a small “fairy chime” attached to the rearview mirror in my car, and when I get perturbed on the road or am looking for the perfect parking space, I ring the chimes. Stupid? Not really. It makes me laugh (and the other occupants in the car as well) at the silliness, which in turn raises the positive energy in the car.

Is there too much clutter in your car?

Have you been making too many stops at McDonald’s and Starbucks, with the evidence thrown in the back seat? Is sporting equipment strewn throughout the backseat and trunk? Does your front passenger seat look like a remote office space with your Blackberry, iPod, and files strewn about? Have stuffed animals taken over the back shelf so that seeing out of the rear window is a distant memory? While clutter will be discussed in more detail in the future, in feng shui terms, clutter is the physical manifestation of our emotional baggage. When your vehicle (or home/desk/office) is full of empty fast food bags, overflowing ashtrays, and empty water bottles, you’re showing to the world that you don’t care about how you’re seen or what image you present. You may also subconsciously feel that you are not worthy or confident (i.e. you're feeling like garbage).

While many of us travel for work and don’t have a vehicle devoted to work only, it is imperative that you do your best to separate your personal life from your job. Keep files in a binder or tote, and that way everything is kept in one place. I do see the need for the iPod to be left out, so that can slide. The Blackberry or other cell phone, however, should not be viewed as an appendage while you're driving! Utilize blue-tooth technology or the option of phone service through OnStar if you MUST be on the phone while you're driving, for safety’s sake.

Harmony Tip: You should never be texting, IMing, or checking emails while you are driving. These practices are unsafe at any speed.

Does your car need better maintenance and general cleaning?

On a monthly basis, you should do a thorough car cleaning. This means vacuuming and wiping down and cleaning the dash and seats. If you have leather, make sure to condition it! This is a must if you drive a convertible. Get rid of all the garbage that has accumulated in the backseat, empty all ashtrays, and organize what must stay in the car. My mother’s car looked like a sporting goods store stuffed into a spare closet before we bought her a golf trunk organizer! Shoes, golf tees, golf shirts, socks . . . you name it and she had it in her car, plus the clubs in the trunk that didn’t leave room for anything else. This was on top of her coupons stuffed into one cup holder and sunglasses in the other. It made her car a total mess. The golf trunk organizer was wonderful as all of her clothes, tees, and other accessories were now put into one place, not strewn about, and everything fit into the trunk with the clubs and freed up the backseat. I have yet to get her to free up the cup holders, although she doesn’t have the venti latte addiction I have, so empty cup holders aren’t that important to her.

Washing the windows in your car is also a must for safety; it’s always good to see where you’re going, especially at night or in inclement weather. But from a feng shui perspective, clean glass/windows symbolizes CLEAR SIGHT towards the future and/or goals, as well as natural light being able to enter your space, bringing in positive energy.

Harmony Tip: Make a point of cleaning your car windows with every gas fill up. Windows are considered the “eyes” of your car, house, or office; therefore they should be kept clean to see clearly.

How does your car smell?

What about crystals for my car?

Harmony Tip: When purchasing crystals for your car or elsewhere in your living space, only buy real crystal spheres, points, or other shapes. Glass, plastic, or other materials do not conduct the same energy as real crystal. Always ask and verify the material before you make a purchase.

Here is my handy Car Feng Shui Checklist to keep your car in perfect order:

1. Just as in ALL of your spaces, your vehicle should be clean and fresh-smelling to facilitate good, healthy energy movement.

2. DO NOT clutter up the back seat with clothes, stuffed animals, sporting equipment, et al, as this will detract positive energy from your car and create a negative, chaotic, and stressful environment. If you don’t LOVE it, USE it, or NEED it, GET RID OF IT!

3. Some feng shui practitioners will tell you to place fluffy cushions and/or blankets in your car to help balance the hard, Yang energy of the road with a calming, comforting energy. I am a “less is more” person, but if throwing a blanket in the back seat or accessorizing your car with some accent pillows appeals to you, go for it. Just don’t let any accessories impair your driving. I should add that a blanket is a necessity if your dogs travel with you or if you want to plan for emergency situations when traveling under severe cold weather conditions.

4. Less is more as far as items hanging from the rearview mirror, except as noted earlier. In general, take down the fuzzy dice, graduation tassels up more than 1 year after graduation, or anything large that will impair your driving or make other drivers afraid of you. In feng shui philosophy, if such an item falls off, it means it has protected you from negative energy, and you should replace it immediately.

5. Use music to help set the mood for your drive. It could be classical to relax you on a long drive, some jazz for a dinner date, classic rock for your commute . . . whatever sets the mood for you. I personally like Jimmy Buffet tunes as they make me think of warm, sunny beach times and transport me from the cold and snow of Wisconsin. Keep in mind that loud, aggressive music encourages aggressive driving. Leave the NAS music off your daily commute.

6. According to Calgary author/interior designer Margo Trofimenkoff, you can tell the gender of your car by the placement of the gas cap. As you face your car from the front, if the gas cap is on the right it indicates feminine, on the left-masculine! So it’s a great idea to name your car accordingly. If you have a personal connection with your car, you are more likely to take care of problems, keep it cleaner, and keep up its maintenance in a timely manner. My car’s name is Tiffany, based on "her" sterling silver color.

7. Keep your car in good working order. Get timely oil changes, keep tires properly inflated, replace burned out lights, and keep the window washer fluid filled (it always goes empty right after a storm!).

8. For cars and any space in your home, make sure doors and windows open and close easily and quietly. Any sticking or difficulty will bring tension at the start of every journey. A door that doesn’t close properly will also cause stress on the window, which can cause it to crack or break.

9. When parking your car, try to leave a clear path that allows an unimpeded entrance or exit. You should never park facing a house, office, or building as it can subconsciously create a threat to the occupants in the building -- a feeling of the car driving into the space. If you can, park parallel to or facing away from the space.

10. When choosing a color for your car, the interior color is the most important choice as this is the color that most directly affects you while driving. If you aren’t happy with the interior of your vehicle, it will cause you stress.

DeAnna Radaj is an interior designer who specializes in Integrative Lifestyle Design (the fusion of Eastern and Western interior design philosophies incorporating feng shui and healthy home principles to create a balanced, healthy and supportive space). She is the owner of Bante Design LLC and its production division, Eden Place Productions. Ms. Radaj is a national speaker on topics ranging from Healthy Home design for all family members (children, adults, and pets), Feng shui, easy design tips and trends and exploring a problem most of us have -- CLUTTER (why we have it and how to get rid of it!). Ms. Radaj was the editor of the WI ASID newsletter, which featured her column The Business of Design, and has been featured in M, Milwaukee Home, and MKE and frequently in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She has also been a featured guest on radio and TV. Her first book, Designing the Life of Your Dreams from the Outside In, hit #1 on Amazon.com in its category (October 2006) and continues to sell well in the U.S. and the U.K. Her second book, Feng Shui for Teens, was released in April 2007.

Photo and art credits: Positive Fuel, Inside Track, Victoria and Albert Museum Shop, Fox News, Buy.com, Essentially Natural, muchtododada

DeAnna Radaj -- Welcome to my Design2Share column, Harmony2Share. We’ll be using a lot of the principles of feng shui to add greater harmony – and all the good benefits of a life well lived – to your home environment.

This column is in homage to my favorite chipmunk-chasing, rabbit-hunting dogs, Libby and Ossie, who just had their 7th birthday!

I know there are many pet owners out there, and this advice is for you. They greet you at the door with wagging tails, barely able to contain their joy at your homecoming. The furry, feathered, finned, or scaled members of your family all share your living space.

The Humane Society of the United States estimates that there are 60+ million pet owners in the U.S. alone. Pets have been proven to reduce stress. Pet owners live longer and are likely to be more social than non-pet owners. So, armed with these facts, please ask youself this all-important question . . . .

Can a Great Dane and great interior design peacefully co-exist in your home?

Let's begin with the premise that pet-related design is good for pets as well as their owners. When you choose the right fabrics, finishes, and furnishings in the first place, you won't have to go through the stress of replacing pet-damaged furnishings or maintain flooring that isn't pet friendly. If you have allergies, it's even more important to make smart pet-related design choices.

Recently, pet-related design has become accepted as a design form. Pet owners are become more educated about their pets' needs -- and with the rapid rise of cancer, allergies, and asthma in pets, many pet owners are reminded that what we bring into our living spaces directly impacts the health of all living beings in the home.

"Pesticide use is the #1 contributor to what is ailing our pets, with household clearners a close second," says Dr. Ann Morgan, Silver Spring Animal Wellness Center (Glendale, WI)

When you remodel your home, ask yourself, "Who are ALL of the occupants of my living space?" If pets are in your body count, look at pet-friendly upholstery as well as flooring and other materials that resist scratching and toenail snagging. Focus on design solutions that offer comfort and pet owner "peace of mind." If you choose the right flooring surfaces, for example, you won't have to de-claw your cat or find a new home for your dog. The Humane Society, by the way, lists this as one of the main reasons for pet surrender, so have your design meet your home's pet-inclusive needs.

With a few pet-proofing and pet-friendly rules, you can make your home a design-friendly haven for the entire family. Keep these guidelines in mind:

• Good pet design includes paint, flooring, textiles, and space-planning.  
• If painting is part of your remodeling or decorating plan, look for NO or LOW V.O.C. paints. These paints are available at all major paint manufacturers. VOCs are the chemicals that are put into paint for faster drying to inhibit mold and bacteria growth. Paint can off-gas for up to 18 months after application. Off-gassing is the “new paint smell" that is evident after we paint. It’s these toxins that can affect breathing by increasing the instance of upper respiratory infections, allergies, and certain types of cancers.

Harmony Tip: Use a washable semi-gloss paint on walls for easy clean up in areas where pets will spend most of their time.

• If you have a cat, avoid textured wall coverings such as grass cloth. These coverings are invitations for cats to scratch. Vinyl wallpaper will also off-gas, so look for wall coverings made of paper or any other natural fiber.

Harmony Tip: A great way to keep your cats from scratching your wall covering is to put beadboard wainscoting on the bottom third of your walls, then apply your paper above.

• For flooring, think hard surfaces when it comes to pets. Hard surfaces are healthier and easier to maintain because carpeting traps pet hair, stains, and odors. Hard surfaces are also cooler for pets with thicker coats and can resist claw marks. Tile, bamboo, hardwood, laminates, or rubber flooring are good flooring options. Seal hardwood floors with polyurethane to prevent urine odor retention. If you must have carpeting, stay away from large-looped Berbers as pet nails get caught in them, causing pet injury and unsightly carpet snags.
• Choose a flooring color that matches your pet. If you have a Golden Retriever, choose beige flooring, for instance. Or choose patterned flooring that will hide hair, disguise stains, and look cleaner longer.
• Area rugs are great flooring accents. They are easy to clean and can be replaced easily and less expensively than wall-to-wall carpeting. Make sure area rugs are anchored with rug grips or a piece of heavy furniture to prevent pets (and people) from slipping.

Harmony Tip: Extra carpeting makes a great scratching post that coordinates with the décor!

• When looking for pet-friendly fabrics for your furnishings, choose from tightly-woven fabrics that can better resist tears and rips. Pick out fabrics that have a smooth finish such as leather, ultrasuede, and microfiber; they are extremely durable, odor resistant, and easy to clean. Leather is smooth, for example, so it won’t be tantalizing to cats that would love to claw at any tufted fabric.
• To maintain your pet-friendly furniture fabrics, just wipe pet hair off with an electrostatic duster or damp sponge. Leather is also very forgiving with scratches that can occur from pet nails; just be careful of actual punctures. Patterns and textures will act in the same manner as patterned flooring to disguise pet hair and debris and look cleaner for longer periods of time. Use extra pet-friendly fabric to make coordinating pet beds, mats for food and water dishes, and floor pillows.
• If new furniture is not in your budget, then slipcover what you've already got! Slipcovers come in a variety of colors and styles and are easy to clean as you can just wash them when they get dirty. You can also change the colors and styles to get a fresh seasonal update.

Harmony Tip: To make furniture more pet friendly, use slipcovers constructed of indoor/outdoor fabrics. They resist fading and mildew, are easy to clean, and come in many stylish patterns and colors.

• If you have pets, try to stay away from vertical blinds, pooling drapery, or anything with ornate tassels and long cords. These can lead to strangulation and are an invitation for play; in other words, your precious items will shred and unravel. Sheers and shades don’t collect dust and pet hair like long, heavy drapes and that is very important in helping control allergies. Fabric shades, café curtains, and valances are great choices for pet-friendly and toddler-friendly homes. Mini-blinds are a no-no and should be kept out of reach of pets and young children to prevent chewing and/or strangulation. I know from experience that they can get bent beyond repair when they block a curious dog’s view of the outside world!
• Multi-functional furniture is essential when designing for your pet. Leash holders hold leashes and a towel to dry off muddy paws. Storage bins and mudroom benches with storage capacity can hold toys, extra blankets, bed covers, and pet sweaters.

Harmony Tip: A pantry or a baker’s rack in the mudroom or back hallway can serve as a pet center; everything is in one place and easily accessible.

• Electrical wires need to be kept out of reach and all outlets should be covered to prevent electrocution.
• When decorating with live plants, stay away from ivies, philodendrons and dieffenbachia as they can be harmful if ingested.
• Pet cubbies are great in any pet-owner's home. They are niches that give pets their own “den” to sleep in or give them much-needed privacy. Cubbies can be incorporated under vanities or cabinets. Litter boxes can also be disguised in this way. When outfitted with a micro-fiber cushion, your puppy can still “watch over” his space and relax. Be sure to keep kennels and pet beds in a draft-free area out of the way of your home's main traffic flow.
• Pet beds are available in patterns and fabrics that will coordinate with almost any décor, so you can put one in each room if you desire. Be sure to choose one with a cover that zips off for easy washing. To match the rest of a room’s décor, cover an oversized floor pillow with matching throw pillow fabric from your sofa. Pet beds are available in a variety of styles, and I've seen them in wicker, 4-poster, daybed, and simple snuggle balls. Simmons, the mattress people, also make an orthopedic mattress for those who really want to pamper their pets. And we've just read about the Magniflex Gold Pet Mattress which has a cloth cover woven with 22-karat gold thread. Talk about the perfect high-end way to pamper your pet!
• Ramps should be added to your home to help your pets navigate stairs and furniture. Ramps help reduce back and joint injuries and are beneficial for small dogs, elderly pets, and disabled and/or injured pets. They're relatively easy to install and the cost will be made up in less frequent vet visits and rehab. Stairs can also be purchased in short segments to make an easy transition for small or handicapped pets to climb.

If a total remodel of your home isn’t in your budget, make use of your current space. An electrical or laundry room can easily be transformed into an all-purpose pet room for feeding, sleeping, or litter box placement. Remember to have proper ventilation in this room to keep it free of odor! Pet showers can also be added to a laundry room, mudroom, garage, or near the back entrance. From a hand-held nozzle to a complete “spa” system, this will keep pets, kids, gardeners, or handymen clean. All you need is easy access to a water source and tile an area up to 42 inches for the “shake off” that occurs after a pet bath.

While we've touched on it a bit, elderly pets require special consideration. They tend to gain weight, suffer from hearing loss, and experience impaired vision, increased elimination, and reduced mobility. They also tend to have a thinner coat with thicker skin.

Install ramps if stair climbing becomes an issue and mobility is limited. Elevated food and water bowls make eating and drinking easier. Place bedding in a dry, warm place that is draft free. Where impaired vision is an issue, rearranging furniture and redecorating your house will cause your older pet stress and confusion! Help your dog by using runners as a pathway to guide them to their food, water, and the door. Keep their nails short and put non-skid matting under rugs to prevent slipping and injury.

By making more conscious choices in what we bring into our homes and how we decorate or remodel, we can make our home healthier and safer for all occupants, yet still styl