A new year brings transition. Watts/Edwards Decorating Consultants has decided to close the books this year. Andrea and I have had a wonderful run together! For me, after managing two personal businesses and everything else I love to do, it was time for an evaluation – which exposed what I already knew. I did not want to get embroiled in the sticky tape of representing furniture or product lines; I simply wanted to share my ideas for improving and creating wonderful places in which to live our lives. I enjoyed it so much, I would do it for free.  And, I pretty much did!

Now, I plan to embrace it, by opening this blog space for sharing ideas and stories dedicated to a very specific aspect of American living.

Over the last two years, I have enjoyed working with people of all ages, in a cross-section of homes in the Atlanta area, each with their own unique design or decorating issues. I was struck, however, by one thing they all had in common: dead dining rooms. I can’t say I was surprised, but, I found it has really bothered me. I think about how many declarations have been made, secrets have been revealed, tears have been shed, truths have been realized, belly laughs have been served, prayers have been uttered, and memories have been made at my own dining table. In fact, it has become so important over the course of our lives that our family and friends have lovingly dubbed it, The Magic Table.

It is revealing that the dining room is the only room in the entire house designed to place us face to face with each other - without distraction. In a time when we have never been more separate, distant and lonely, this room has the potential to draw us in, bring us together, to satisfy what we crave most – human connection. The cultural reality of the abandoned dining room breaks my heart because ignoring it is an opportunity missed…over and over.

The moments that strengthen our bonds and add meaning to our lives usually don’t just happen. Being intentional about time, setting, tone, feel, and yes, food and drink, allows us to focus on what really matters - each other.

So, the transition I am making in this new year is that I will be sharing my ideas for free – on how to bring family and friends back to the table.  If you would like learn new ways to create your own Magic Table and share your thoughts with us, subscribe to my blog!  www.themagictable.org