This is a Hawaiian tuberose from my garden. I discovered these exotic and fragrant flowers at the Seattle Home Show and was quickly talked into purchasing 30 bulbs for my patio garden. The bulbs immediately sprouted striking green foliage, but despite near perfect growing conditions (lots of sun, water, and special food) not one flower appeared.

I was disappointed, but continued to hope, even as summer turned into fall; that by some miracle I'd get at least one bud. September rolled around and still nothing. I decided that come October, I'd transfer the pots to the shed and try again next year.

A few days later I peeked out the back door one cold, rainy afternoon for a last look at my failed bulb project. I was absolutely astounded to see a single slender stalk poking straight up out of the tangled leaves - topped with a cluster of delicate pink tipped white petals. The tuberose had brought forth a single perfect bloom.

It struck me then, that this beautiful flower, shooting up after everything else in the garden had withered was a metaphor for the proverbial "late bloomer." Its presence reminded me that many of us have dreams and visions that are slow to blossom. But I believe if we are patient and do not give up,the reward may very well be the most beautiful flower in our garden.

Wishing you a life in order,



Workshop Offer
Get Organized & Inspired!
Join me for the Ultimate Kitchen & Holiday Entertaining Experience
Saturday, November 11, 2006; 11:00am - 2:00pm
Join the professionals Corinne Kocher, Chef, restaurant owner and proprietor of Catering By Corinne and UnWined Cooking School & Food Studio, Jim Collins of Collins Construction, and me - "The Organization Diva" - for an information packed, inspirational, and absolutely delicious kitchen organization & holiday entertaining demonstration.

This presentation will take place in the professional kitchen studio at Bradlee Distributors Design Studio in Magnolia.

You'll learn:
  • The newest tips on remodeling techniques and the best products & materials for your budget
  • How to organize your kitchen for optimum work space & flow
  • How to organize and stock the perfect pantry
  • Which essential ingredients you need for last minute holiday entertaining
  • Holiday Table Decorating Tips
Corinne will prepare and serve elegant and easy holiday appetizers showcasing unique combinations of seasonal ingredients.

Enjoy a champagne tasting while exploring Bradlee's beautiful showrooms - featuring cutting edge Wolf, Sub Zero, and Asko appliances.

Take home complete menus and recipe instructions, Organizing Tips CDs, and...

Enter our drawing to win:
- Dinner for 4 Gift Certificate
- 2 Hour Home or Office Organization Gift Certificate

Registration fee: $52

Visit my Workshops page to register today.

Kitchen studio seating is limited - so make your reservation now!


Tip of The Week
Don't Freeze - Focus! Understanding the Priority Pyramid
When organizing your projects and priorities, use the pyramid concept to focus on what's really important to your "bottom line". Take care of that first and don't get bogged down with unimportant time wasters and busywork.
The point of the pyramid = your top priorities.
The base = non-urgent, unimportant tasks.
Begin to practice "top down" prioritizing:
  • When you take care of the important things first, you create breathing room for yourself. You can handle whatever comes up with much less stress.
  • Your important work is taken care of so when unplanned schedule changes or crises arise you're not overwhelmed.
  • Taking care of the important stuff gives you self-confidence and clarity.