Yesterday was 2-12-2015.  “212” has a special meaning to me.  Years ago I found a short video that demonstrated that water was very hot at 211 degrees.  At 212 degrees water boils and creates steam which can power a locomotive.  Yes, it is talking about one degree of change!  I have used this video throughout the years as a motivational kick in the pants.  I use “212” as a greeting to some of my like minded friends!  I smile when I glance at the time and it is exactly “2:12”.  As a matter of fact as I am typing this blog the clock on my computer is turning over to “2:12”!

It has reconfirmed my commitment to continue motivating you to make your one degree of change.  I am so proud of my patients and friends, who have shared their commitment to making a one degree of change in their health and for their planet.  Even my own family is on board.  My dad and mom have implemented a program for recycling bulbs and batteries at their workplace (Catalina Beach Club), engaging not only employees but also the guests.

One Degree of Change #16: Repurpose furniture or donate it to Habitat for Humanity.

Repurpose is another word for recycling.  In our household we are always freshening up the décor.  My taste is more of an island paradise inspiration.  My wife is more of a mid century modern or a contemporary style.  So, over the past few years we have had a shift toward the mid century modern since we have joined our households.  My furniture was still in great shape. We repurposed that furniture to our Eustis and Winter Park offices.  It gives our offices a homey, comfortable energy.

There are many ways to repurpose furniture.  I have been inspired by television shows that have DIY projects.  The creativity of some of these shows is beyond amazing.  Here are a few ideas:

A grocery cart chair!

1.  Repurpose an old headboard into a hanging coat rack.
2.  Repaint old dressers with whimsical colors for kid’s rooms.
3.  Use old shutters as a cottage style headboard.
4.  Use different style dining room chairs and paint them the same color for an eclectic look.
5.  Use an old sideboard as a vanity.
6.  Use an old bookcase as a bar.
7.  Use an armoire as a potting bench.

The list is endless.  We repurposed this mid century modern chandelier that we found at a second hand store for our foyer. We paid $20 for this diamond in the rough.  A little paint, some elbow grease and help from our electrician friend renewed some history!

But what if you are not creative or don’t have another location to move the furniture.  Donate it!  We have also donated many things to Habitat for Humanity.  They have stores that are called “Restores“, very clever! Habitat for Humanity has nonprofit home improvement stores and donation centers that sell new and gently used furniture, home accessories, building materials, and appliances to the public at a fraction of the retail price.

Habitat for Humanity ReStores are proudly owned and operated by local Habitat for Humanity affiliates, and proceeds are used to build homes, community, and hope locally and around the world.  If you visit the above website, you can find a location near you.  And a bonus is, they will come to your home or office to pick up items!

Are you inspired?  Move some furniture around.  Do you need help?  Here is a website of two Winter Park sisters that rediscover your rooms! Check this out: http://www.roomrediscovery.com/.

You have all sorts of options and ideas now.

Don’t throw your furniture out and congest our landfills even more, do the right thing!

Make your purpose to repurpose!

212!

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