If you know me then you know I'm a firm believer that "beauty is in the eye of the beholder". So, you will understand my enthusiasm for introducing you to the art of WmTurnbull – and his perceptions of reality.

After much encouragement from family, friends and members of the art community, my husband, Bill Turnbull has once again turned his focus directly on his God-given art talent and agreed to make his unique and affordable work available for collectors. On his new website he has posted his introductory collection which I encourage you to view.

In my recent article for Our Homes Summer 2011, I have attempted to weed through some of the facts and fallacies that many of you are facing, so that you might make better choices for yourself.

Spring is just around the corner and with the emotional anticipation of its arrival our minds welcome visions of nature's confirmations that indeed, warmer sun filled days are upon us. We look for signs everywhere but none are more emphatic than the peek-a-boo colour of the first crocuses; the happy yellow of daffodils and the bright hues of the tulips against the lush and endless shades of spring's newly budding greens! It's as if Nature knows exactly what our winter-weary bodies need to feel that spark of energy that comes with the promise of renewal as the cycle of life begins again. It's little wonder that a simple pot of flowers can bring the biggest of smiles to even the most tired face...

Sara & Mario set out on a Saturday morning with hopeful aspirations of choosing decorating finishes for their home. They began their day with specialty coffees and breakfast sweets at their local café. Not to be overwhelmed by the allure of choice, they each ordered something different to share. Little did they know, they had just scratched the surface of what was to be an eye opening experience into marketplace overload.

Have you ever visited a place and wondered “what were they thinking when they put this décor together?”   Or even worse, have you ever asked yourself  “what on earth got into me; I can’t imagine what was in my mind when I picked this?”  Or how about choosing colour – did you actually get it right the first time or are you still wondering why the colour on that perfect little paint chip has turned into your worst nightmare? And,  Why do I feel like this?

What do skin care products and interior decorating have in common?

Last week I mustered up the courage to take back a newly launched, moderately expensive skin care product that turned out to do the exact opposite of the manufacturer’s claims which by the way were adamantly attested to by the sales person who “sold” it to me. Fortunately, my purchase was easily portable; obtained from a reputable store; and ironically I discovered I wasn’t alone with my dissatisfaction when the cosmetic manager openly shared that she too had the same experience. Lucky for me I got my money back and was set free to try another venue to stay “forever young”!!

Renovating your home is a big deal. Budgets, design and construction all matter, and finding the right professionals to complete the project is paramount. I thought you might enjoy the "Johnson/Turnbull" feature story, to see just how some of the tips I write about look when implemented in real life. I think the Johnson's home is a wonderful space, and I am thrilled and grateful that they shared it with Our Homes.