The current American Painting Contractor has an article about how color choices in your home, clothing, and surroundings can affect mood. OK, we’ve known that for a long time. But here they’ve drawn parallels to the pandemic. Color in a work-from-home environment, feelings of uncertainty, comfort, optimism, ,,, well, I’ll let you read the article. (Much of it is right where that shiny spot is on the page.)Coincidentally, this “freebie” magazine from a local realtor touched on the same points. I’ll point out that pattern – as in, wallpaper! – also has an influence on mood and emotions. I often say that I think I’m the only paperhanger in town who actually enjoys talking with clients about their pattern and color choices. But it surprised me that consultations could touch on not just décor, but also mood and emotion and well-being. For instance, I’m big on avoiding negativity. Like Facebook posts that disintegrate into name-calling and bullying. But also … wallpaper patterns that cleverly disguise “edgy” themes like skulls or hunt scenes or orgies (trust me – they’re out there!) Why not choose to surround yourself with something positive and uplifting, instead?!