Jon recently retired, so he had the luxury of a little extra time. He left during the final week of June and first visited his mother, who lives on lovely Bainbridge Island near Seattle.

She had recently completed repairs following a septic-system problem that led to extensive remodeling, including asbestos abatement. Although it was certainly not a project she had planned, the good news is that her lower level is now better insulated and has beautiful new flooring as well as pretty, fresh paint and other upgrades.

Jon helped with several chores around the house, including tending to her garden and rehanging artwork. He is well practiced at the latter.

Just two weeks earlier, we had traded a weekend at the lake with longtime friends and clients for a few hours of picture hanging. I have known and loved these clients for years and was already familiar with their art, photographs and meaningful family pieces.

While spending Easter with them at the lake, I noticed artwork waiting in closets and tucked into corners of the bedroom. I mentioned that it should be displayed.

“Where would we put it?” they asked.

As you can imagine, that was a question I was delighted to answer. I arranged and laid out all of the art combinations and hung the smaller pieces while Jon handled the larger ones. It was a lovely reminder that thoughtful placement can give familiar artwork—and an entire home—a fresh sense of life.  I went ahead and rearranged a display shelf too, much to the delight of my friend.  I laid down one rule – since the large etagere is close the to the main entry, it tends to acquire items.  I suggested we use the bottom shelf, which is well concealed by the seating in the living room, for utilitarian items like speakers waiting to be used and excess candles.