“I can see it on your table.  Everybody’s got a little place for their stuff. This is my stuff, that’s your stuff, that’ll be his stuff over there. That’s all you need in life, a little place for your stuff.”
               – George Carlin

Not much has changed since Carlin first did that routine. We’re still looking for a place to put our stuff. It’s a constant challenge for many of us, whether it’s due to lazy habits or a packrat mother-in-law who has never come across a recipe she didn’t absolutely have to save. According to a 2011 survey by OfficeMax, nine out of 10 Americans say disorganization at home or work has a negative impact on their lives.

It’s never too late to simplify your lifestyle. That’s why every year we dedicate our January issue to storage and organization. It’s the perfect time to clear the clutter and set the tone for a new year filled with possibilities.

In this issue, we bring you easy, cost-effective ways to get organized in every room of your home (page 19). Plus, our New & Improved Home features a new house from Emery Construction on Enchanted Lake filled with smart storage ideas (page 14).

Finally, mark your calendars for the BIA Home Building and Remodeling Show at the Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall Jan. 27-29. This is your chance to meet the experts featured in this month’s issue and many more. The guidebook has valuable information on each exhibitor as well as a coupon for $2 off admission. We’ll be at the show, too, so please drop by and say hello.





Take it easy,

 












Tom Kunz EDITOR
tomk@hawaiihomemag.com

---

One small change is all it takes.

I’m really happy with my most recent home-improvement project–it’s one small change that has dramatically changed my kitchen. All it took was a little sandpaper, a couple of cans of spray paint and a drop cloth (all from City Mill) and some elbow grease (all from me). Best of all, it was done in a weekend.

The problem? I had rust spots on the front of my white refrigerator/freezer that looked more like mud stains or dried, crusted food. It was drab and depressing. At the suggestion of my mom, who has always been crafty around the house, I decided to paint it, not white, but blue! Check it out. It’s so bright and fun, and definitely an improvement.

Next on the home-front agenda: Get organized. While I always start the year with the best intentions, a busy life (and two boys with all their school papers and books, shoes and socks, musical instruments and electronics) seems to get in the way of maintaining the tidy home I yearn for. I always look forward to our annual Storage and Organization issue because I am anxious for some direction. I know our talented editors will have some great suggestions on how to get on track and stay the course throughout the year. After all, it’s the new year, and, if not now, when?



Aloha,