Reader Comment Archive
Trudy Costes
Hi Marni,
I read with interest your articles in the Marin IJ on finding and buying the right mattress. But I failed to learn if the mattress you ordered worked out. I read parts 1-4 so perhaps I missed the last update on the success of the mattress purchase. Thanks for letting me know if it was the right mattress for you! Not being able to return it doesn’t seem like a plus. Thanks
Say Yes to the Rest: Mattress Search Uncovers Hard Truths in Squishy Business – Mattress Matters PART
2019/12/28 at 8:18 am
Marni - In reply to Trudy Costes.
Hi Trudy, Countless readers have asked, and the first thing I say is mattress preferences are extremely personal. What works for me may not be a good fit for you. That said, buying this mattress was a bit of a gamble because a) it was non-returnable. b) my husband hadn’t slept on it. And c) it was expensive. Bottom line: I am not sorry. This whole experience made me realize how badly we needed a new mattress, and, truly, almost anything would have been an improvement over the sorry pad we replaced. And while my back still stiffens up from time to time, it is definitely better. Maybe you should find a hotel near you that has this mattress and spend the night there??
That said, here is a link to the mattress I bought: https://us.fairmontstore.com/collections/our-bed
The customer service line is 1-800-866-9566 and the gal in charge of home store sales is Michelle Gaffney at Michelle.Gaffney@accor.com.
Hope this is helpful.
Marni
2019/12/30 at 7:28 am
Wayne Krennerich
We ordered our 2nd Balsam Hill tree this year. Went with the flip tree which I will never have to pick up. Flip in place, wrap storage bag around it and roll into the garage. First one was 8 years old and has new life at my cousins house.
Faux Firs: New Trends in Trees - 2019/12/24 at 9:03 pm
Marni - In reply to Wayne Krennerich.
They are great trees. Our old one went to my daughter’s place.
Shirley Land
I look forward to your columns, and today’s recap of the best of the first 6 months of 2019 was spot on. For me, your 10/19/19 column, “Where’s the joy in a new roof?” perfectly recapped what I was experiencing, dealing with a 19 year old roof needing replacement and not having a clue what I was doing, as I’d never paid much attention to roofs before. As an aside, neighbors selling their house report that potential buyers have ALL asked about their roof. To expedite the sale, they are replacing their roof!!
Contact - 2019/12/21 at 12:08 pm
RAMONA RAGNACCI
There is a little typographical error in your column — Balsam Hills corporate address is Redwood City, CA not Redland City, CA.
I have lived in Redwood City, CA and did not know until recently that Balsam Hills was headquartered in Redwood City.
Faux Firs: New Trends in Trees - 2019/12/17 at 3:42 pm
Joanne
Good afternoon! I am hoping you could help me find your column on picking sheets for the bedroom. Thank you! Joanne sykora, (your Columbia in our Orlando Sentinel)
Home Column - 2019/12/10 at 12:51 am
Marni - In reply to Joanne.
Here you go!
https://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-marni-jameson-pick-perfect-sheets-20150414-column.html
2020/02/04 at 11:49 am
Teddy Gibson
Thank you for the evaluation, will surely save us time and aggravation this holiday season. Can’t wait to get our “scent” on !
Seasonal Scents That Pass the Sniff Test - 2019/12/09 at 10:19 pm
Marni - In reply to Teddy Gibson.
You’re welcome. Sadly, I learned after this piece published that Thymes is discontinuing the Gingerbread scented candle. That is sad. But everything else is readily available.
2019/12/10 at 4:32 am
Brenda Dittmore
Hi Marni , I am a big fan of your weekly articles and even have my husband reading and talking about them! Thank you. Today’s article on artificial trees reminded me about the issue with tree disposal and landfill. I wish you would have included that discussion in your article as I think it should be a big co side ration in deciding to purchase or replace an artificial tree. Perhaps the cost of restringing the lights or getting live trees each year would be more “worth it” when considering the environmental impacts. Just a thought.
Contact - 2019/12/08 at 8:07 am
Dana Irwin
I enjoy your column, even though I’m a very basic decorator of my home. Your column on fragrances leads me to share this. I purchase a year’s supply of the sticks when they are available at this time of year. I use them at the bottom of my clothes hamper, at the bottom of my kitchen trash basket (under the plastic bag) and hang one behind the toilet tank. They last about 2 months in each location.
Contact - 2019/11/30 at 7:31 am
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Carolyn Hitchcock
Do you have an archive of your columns? I remember a good one that you did that discussed that you had to adjust to the new realities of Xmas with all different relatives and blended families. I have a relative that could use your advice. I saved the article but cannot find it.
Thanks
Contact - 2019/11/19 at 8:07 pm
Toni McCormick
Dear Marni,
Can you PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE tell me about the flower material in your most recent post photo for “Refreshed French”.
It’s perfect for this New Orlean’s lady’s home! I also love and gravitate towards French style from ’30s/’40s(Andre Arbus–be still my beating heart!
Contact - 2019/11/14 at 12:00 pm
Lesley Hutchinson
Dear Marni,
I have just read your column and found it to be very interesting. I am wanting to contact Hakan Zor re a Turkish rug. I appear to have an incorrect email address, would you be able to forward his email address to me? Greatly appreciated.
All the best, Lesley Hutchinson.
Contact - 2019/10/19 at 9:07 pm
Marni - In reply to Lesley Hutchinson.
Hi Leslie,
Here you go: Hakan Zor, zorhakan@hotmail.com Mobile 201-805-7560 Good luck and tell him hello.
2019/12/21 at 12:34 pm
Lisa Vicchrilli Anderson
Dear Marni,
I just read your column about replacing your roof in the Salt Lake Tribune. My husband and I replaced our roof this past spring on our 26 year old house. The house has beige stucco and reddish orange and brown stones across the front. The shingles we replaced were black asphalt. The shingles we chose we a combination of tans, ranging from mid tan to dark tan. We could not believe the difference those shingles made to the appearance of our home. It really made it much more attractive. We also went a step further and added solar panels to our roof. Those, we hardly notice, because the roof looks so great.
I thoroughly enjoy your articles every week in the “Spaces” section of the Tribune. You have given my husband (an architect) and I some good discussion points as we have made improvements to our home over the years. Thank you for your insights.
Lisa Vicchrilli Anderson
Sandy, Utah
Contact - 2019/10/18 at 7:26 am
Annette Lussow
I just wanted to leave you a quick note to tell you how much I enjoy your articles in our Saturday local paper. It is the first article I read.
You are so witty. You make me laugh. Your advice is always spot on.
Thank you.
Looking forward to your next piece.
Contact - 2019/10/12 at 1:01 pm
Michelle
Marni you are just fabulous! I’m on my second reading of The House Always Wins and I got a bug to look you up. I -am- sort of a 17 cat lady (2 dogs/2 cats – that shed for 17) and my world + our home revolve around them. These are all great tips. I’ll add that daily outdoor brushing helps for those co-suffering in the shed-set.
8 Reasons Not to Get a Dog, and Why I Have 3 - 2019/10/11 at 10:39 am
Susan Bussinger
Re: Dogs and Why You Have 3:
You are my favorite word-smith! “A dog may be a small part of your life; but you are all of theirs!” A cat may ignore you a lot but they can be pretty lovable and love your dog too. Our Miss Mew loved her dog, Sammy The Dawg! I love your articles. One weekend your article wasn’t in the Sentinel so I emailed the editor and she responded on her phone that your column would be back in a week. You have some following, as you should! Thank you for being you and real.
Contact - 2019/10/09 at 5:57 pm
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Rich Sams
I missed the article on the best mattress for me. How can I read it now?
Contact - 2019/09/30 at 8:28 am
Joyce Holter
Your article on bed making is right on target. I also am compulsive about bed making every day. The bed is made before I leave the bedroom. Best article I have seen on bedmaking. Thanks.
Dirty dishes run second to bedmaking for me.
Contact - 2019/09/29 at 12:47 pm
Ray saadi
Marni,
3 weeks ago I think it was, you wrote about mattresses and commented again today. I meant to save it but alas, good intentions, etc.
Woulld you lease send me that article? MY BACK’S BREAKING!
‘Thanks.
Best,
Ray
Home Column - 2019/09/28 at 5:16 am
Marni - In reply to Ray saadi.
Hi Ray, Look no further than this website. I have posted the entire four-part mattress series, plus the pillow column, on my blog: http://www.marnijameson.com/marnis-blog
2019/09/29 at 5:16 pm
Michael Cochrane
Dear Marni:
I so enjoy reading your column each week, and thought about how “right on target” you were with your recent column of CAN MAKING YOUR BED CHANGE YOUR LIFE?
As the sole caregiver for the past 11 years for my husband who has Alzheimer’s, I recently sought out a local Support Group regarding Loss and Grief to help me “vent” and begin to put some positive direction back in my life as I climb my way back from the grief and loss his disease has burdened us/me with. That group has been a God-send for me (as well as a Caregiver’s Support Group I belonged to previously).
Anyway, in our group we are always talking openly and candidly about how do we “get through” this pain, and try and rebuild our lives without our loved ones at our sides. Our conversations seem to keep coming back to just taking life one day at a time, and to taking baby like steps on regaining our entryway back into building some kind of a new life for ourselves. A few steps here, a few steps there so to speak. We all know its going to take a lot of continuous concentrated work and effort.
So to my point. Your column hit me “right between the eyes” when I read it, as I have, just recently, begun to make my bed each and every day. And yes, speaking from personal experience, it does indeed help!! I’m looking for ANY small thing to help me climb out of this grief and loss canyon, and I can verify that it does supply me with a minor sense of accomplishment and provide some calm to me at the start of my day. Something that is always welcomed!
As such, I’m planning on bringing your column to my support group next week and reading excerpts from it as I believe it to be one excellent example of a simple thing all of us can do to start our day on a brighter note.
Thanks so much for just being you!
Contact - 2019/09/27 at 6:04 am
Marni - In reply to Michael Cochrane.
Bless you. So glad I’ve helped just a little.
2019/09/29 at 5:29 pm
Laura Wade
Marni, there was a column you wrote for the Denver Post many years ago about going through your mom’s things and having to clean out her home.
You had very touching ideas about how to keep memories of your mom but not all of the things that were memorable to her in her life. One thing that I still remember was a very elegant clutch purse that had a program from the fanciest night out of her life….. it was a precious article.
Would you send me the link to that article?
Home Column - 2019/09/23 at 4:26 pm
Marni - In reply to Laura Wade.
Hi Laura, So nice of you to remember that dear little story about mom’s purse. I included the essay in my book “Downsizing the Family Home,” on page 97. But it is also still online in places, including here: https://www.denverpost.com/2013/08/16/how-to-let-go-of-parents-stuff-sentimental-attachments/
Best wishes, Marni
2019/09/24 at 10:01 am
Debbie Urango
Thank you Marni, for your articles about mattresses. My husband and I are in the mist of finding one we like, which means we have to give up our 25 year old mattress that really can’t be called a mattress any longer.
It’s a long and arduous process and I appreciate your insight and help!
Please keep your readers posted on how you’re liking your new mattress.
Best to you!
Contact - 2019/09/18 at 9:07 am
Marni - In reply to Debbie Urango.
Still loving my mattress. Don’t feel 20 years younger, but maybe 10!
2019/09/21 at 6:07 pm
Connie Martin
And then to find the right pillow… A spine doctor told me years ago that most of his patients had back and neck issues from sleeping on a pillow that wasn’t right for them.
Say Yes to the Rest: Mattress Search Uncovers Hard Truths in Squishy Business – Mattress Matters PART
2019/09/14 at 6:57 am
Marni - In reply to Connie Martin.
Hi Connie, Yes, the pillow! As it happens, that is the subject of next week’s columns. Stay tuned.
2019/09/14 at 8:55 am
david johnson
my wifes cat..jinx..died over two years ago.. we havent replaced jinx yet.. but I would rather have two cats than one dog.. too much trouble thx david johnson
Contact - 2019/09/06 at 1:00 pm
Melodee
Recently traveled to Canada and stayed at the Fairmont La Malbaie, Quebec, Canada. Each morning I woke up and said, “I Love this mattress! I’ve never slept on such a comfortable mattress.” Imagine my surprise upon returning to Orlando, opening the Sentinel and seeing your article, Mattress Search Uncovers Hard Truths. I read with amazement and totally agreed. Wondering: price at Fairmont Home Store is twice that of a locally sold Sealy Posturepedic Plush Euro Pillowtop. Hummm, what is the difference? If you have any further insights on this mattress feel free to email. We love your commentaries! I believe your timing must be a gift. Great Job!
Contact - 2019/09/05 at 12:35 pm
Marni - In reply to Melodee.
Hi Melodee,
What you might have missed while away was my Part 1 of the mattress series: https://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-fe-marni-jameson-mattress-20190726-au3w5c6eobf67mkmpwyqqc5be4-story.html
Here I explain the difference between a hotel-grade mattress and a residential mattress. That said, when I contacted the home store for the Swissotel, the hotel where I stayed in Chicago and slept on this (Fairmont) mattress, Swissotel was selling the same mattress for $1,000 more! Pays to shop for sure.
2019/09/05 at 3:40 pm
Melodee
Thank you for responding to my mattress inquiry and sending link on mattresses Part 1. You are right, I was gone when that came out. I think it narrows the question to hotel/commercial grade and $$$$ or home grade and $$.
P.S. I was in tears of laughter reading today’s dog saga. I have my share of cats and love dogs too. Both are fun, comforting and loving creatures. Thanks for all your realistic looks at life!
2019/09/07 at 10:30 am
Susan Germyn-Francis
Hi Marni, I just experienced the anguish of purchasing the WRONG mattress! I spent almost 4 weeks in constant, agonizing, debilitating back pain from buying a mattress that was too soft. I didn’t go into buying the mattress blindly – we were replacing a 2 year old mattress that just didn’t work and had actually turned into a deep pit on my husband’s side. It was a coil one. I fell in love with my brother’s hybrid mattress – I slept on it two different times for several days with no problem. So we chose the plushest, top of the line. (I didn’t know his was actually firm.) It arrived and it was so nice and comfy at first…but then by day 4 I was starting to have a back ache – of course I thought…it’s got to be all the lifting and bending I’ve been doing (I’m a professional photographer). By the next week I could barely move, or roll over in bed. I went to doctors, chiropractors, had massages, had reiki, cold laser therapy, took anti-inflammatories, did my usual Egoscue back exercises and NOTHING stopped the pain! I even prayed for God to show me what was causing my pain and sure enough I came across a mattress on the side of the road (which I NEVER see in my neighborhood!) Of course I laughed out loud and said “surely NOT, it can’t be this beautiful new mattress!” It took me another 3 weeks to finally believe it and replace it as well as an adjustment of my QL muscles and I am finally out of PAIN!! I would tell you that you need to do your research, read the online reviews and also test out mattresses for quite a while before you buy…and if you suddenly start to have back pain – it could be you NEW mattress!
Mattress Matchmaker Offers Tips to Cut Through Puff – Mattress Matters PART 3
2019/08/28 at 1:14 pm
Marni - In reply to Susan Germyn-Francis.
Yup!
2019/08/28 at 1:50 pm
Elizabeth Becht
I very much enjoy your weekly design column. Regarding today’s column on shingle color, I was glad you noted that a “lighter roof will reflect sun and keep interiors cooler”. In a world where climate is rapidly and dangerously changing that was important to highlight. Studies also indicate that white or light colored roofs reflect heat and can lower the overall temperature in a city. Roofs that would not benefit from being white would be solar and green roofs. We might need to adjust our fashion sense and adopt functionality that will keep our communities more comfortable, and indeed livable. Articles on “cool roofs” and other documented household approaches to slow climate change would be of interest to your audience. Thanks. Elizabeth Orlando FL
Contact - 2019/08/24 at 11:32 am
Ann Poore
“Our yellow house has white trim and black shudders.
When looking at it, Craig pointed out, you first see the burnt-orange front door and the oval window above it. Next your eyes go to the white trim and black shudders.”
You MUST have dictated this. Someone should read it before you hit “send.” It is, of course, SHUTTERS that you mean here, Marni, I hope and trust. And yes, you need a comma after that “Next.”
Thanks. You are a pleasure to read otherwise. I enjoyed “Downsizing” immensely.
Contact - 2019/08/23 at 9:01 am
Marni - In reply to Ann Poore.
Yes, Ann, my own two fingers made that spelling error. I shuddered when I noticed an hour after I turned it in. Then I sent a correction to my editors, but for some it did not arrive soon enough.Copy desks are thin these days. The Sarasota Herald-Tribune got the fix https://www.heraldtribune.com/news/20190823/marni-jameson-your-roof-should-whisper-not-shout. #notperfect
2019/08/25 at 5:30 am
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Leonard Bloom
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your column on thew search for a new mattress this morning in our Sarasota newspaper. Our Stearns &Foster mattress is 21-years-old and needs to be replaced. You do not mention any manufacturers in your report. Can you tell me 2 or 3 brands that you like most. I am 82 and my wife is 76. This will be our final mattress. Thank you.
Contact - 2019/08/09 at 10:54 am
Marni - In reply to Leonard Bloom.
Hi Leonard, It probably is time for a new mattress.
Here is a link to the Sealy Posturpedic Euro Pillowtop mattress I ordered. https://us.fairmontstore.com/collections/our-bed. The customer service line for the store is 1-800-866-9566 and Michelle Gaffney at Michelle.Gaffney@accor.com is the contact. A word of caution: In researching and writing this mattress series, I’ve learned that mattresses are highly personal. My five-star could be your one-star, so please do your own homework, and keep that in mind.
2019/08/18 at 5:44 am
Nancy McKinnis
I love your column but sometimes don’t receive the paper…. can I receive online?
Home Column - 2019/08/01 at 6:14 am
Marni - In reply to Nancy McKinnis.
Hi Nancy, Yes. You can do a search as many papers carry my column. Also you can check my blog every week here on this website. On Mondays I post the column that ran in papers three weeks earlier.
2019/08/18 at 5:42 am
Lori McBride
I enjoyed reading your article today about the hotel mattress you liked. My husband has a bad back and complains about our bed at home and also about some of the hotel ones. When he likes a hotel one, we should do what you did and see what kind it is! I hope when you get your new mattress you write about how you like it!
Contact - 2019/07/28 at 3:38 pm
Mary Dowd
Just read article on mattress! Do you have the link for mattress online? Thanks so much! Enjoy your articles in NOLA Advocate
Contact - 2019/07/27 at 7:26 am
Marni - In reply to Mary Dowd.
Here is a link to the mattress Sealy Posturpedic Euro Pillowtop mattress I ordered. https://us.fairmontstore.com/collections/our-bed
The customer service line for the store is 1-800-866-9566 and Michelle Gaffney at Michelle.Gaffney@accor.com is the contact. A word of caution: In researching and writing this mattress series, I’ve learned that mattresses are highly personal. My five-star could be your one-star, so please do your own homework, and keep that in mind.
2019/08/18 at 5:38 am
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Marcia Felton
I just read the column in the 6/22/19 Marin IJ. “Handwritten thank-yous…”
I NEVER write to columnists. But OMG, OMG !!
“The rule that brides have a year to send thank you notes still holds, though they should try to write them soon to let those who sent gifts know the gift arrived.”
NO, NO, A THOUSAND TIMES NO !!
The one-year “rule” (if there is one) is the time the gift-giver is allowed, after the wedding. The bride must ABSOLUTELY WRITE A THANK-YOU AS SOON AS HUMANLY POSSIBLE.
Can you imagine giving a gift, and waiting 12 months for acknowledgment? You’d never give that person another gift, ever.
PLEASE, if you haven’t already corrected this horrific error, do so as soon as possible.
Not your fault, perhaps, as you undoubtedly heard that rule somewhere. But it was wrong, wrong, wrong.
Appreciation is best expressed immediately, if not sooner.
Contact - 2019/07/21 at 1:11 pm
Marni - In reply to Marcia Felton.
I heartily agree with you, but my Emily Post level etiquette expert holds to the one-year rule.
2019/08/18 at 5:35 am
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Evelyn Preston
Wow! You usually get it so right (and so sprightly)tho I live an opposite lifestyle (same house 56 yrs.)Until today I love every column and better yet, glean good ideas. But oh that downsizing snobfest that screams $$$,. 6K sq. ft., down to 3…not downsizing to most real people, and in their 50s to custom build with all the good stuff? That fits Silicon Valley maybe, but not most of the middle class.
I’m well-heeled and still put off by this niche approach to the real world. Not your usual “reach the middle masses” clever good sense. No useful less-is-more lesson today tho I usually appreciate your cheery, fun, real world ideas.
Contact - 2019/06/30 at 11:21 am
Marni - In reply to Evelyn Preston.
Hi Evelyn,
I know, I know. You are not the first reader to comment, and I winced a little, too. But bear in mind, downsizing is relative. Cutting your living space in half is work regardless of whether you start with a 6,000-square-foot house or a 3,000-square-foot house. (I’d much rather downsize from 3,000.) In some parts of the country you can find 6,000-square-foot homes valued at under $300,000, and 1,000-square-foot penthouses for a few million $. Big house does not always equal rich people.That said, in this column, I was trying to write about a lifestyle choice to right size that many people have to face at some point.
Not too long ago — and still to some extent — McMansions were a major trend in housing. Many people found these huge (characterless) houses desirable. (Hence the surge of the book “The Not So Big House.”) They backfired. Part of my reason for writing this was to help anyone who has ever pined for a larger home to understand it’s not all that desirable. People in those homes want less house. Finally, though I do aim for broad appeal, and I am solidly in the middle class, my column runs in papers all across the country, reaching all demographics. I try keep readers of all ages, income levels and locations in mind. So,some of my columns won’t resonate with everyone. Thank you for reading and writing and even for gently disagreeing.
Warm regards, Marni
2019/06/30 at 3:53 pm
Ardith Willner
I SAW YOUR ARTICLE. SPRING HAS SPRUNG, AND ITS TIME FOR DEEP CLEANING….AND THOUGHT IT WAS BRILLIANT.
But…. I was at a friend house, and only got to tear out part of it. Is there any way I can get a copy of that article??? I saw it in the Bay Area News Group. on Sunday. April 28th.2019
Home Column - 2019/06/29 at 4:25 pm
Marni - In reply to Ardith Willner.
Hi Ardith, You can always Google my column, as many papers run it weekly. Or check my blog, where I post my columns three weeks after they appear in papers. Best, Marni
2019/08/18 at 5:47 am
Carolyn
Re: June 29 article on downsizing. I find it a bit difficult to think that a 3200 sq ft, 4-bedroom house is “Downsizing”, but, yes, it’s all relative. Also, please use correct pronouns. “Most of the time it’s [husband] and I…” ACK!! This should be “husband and ME”! The newspaper editors should catch these errors. Is this misuse of pronouns becoming so commonplace that it is now considered correct? Despite my semi-criticisms, I love your column. Though i don’t live in Orlando now, I continue to subscribe online, in part to more easily read you.
Contact - 2019/06/29 at 10:43 am
Marni - In reply to Carolyn.
Hi Carolyn, Thank you for sticking with me and following along even though you’ve moved. As for the relativity of downsizing, please see my answer to Evelyn. As for the pronoun matter, while I have made mistakes in print, regrettably, writing “Most of the time it’s Paul and I …” is not one. Linking verbs, such as to be (is), take subjective case pronouns (I), not the objective case (me). Active verbs take objects. Linking verbs take complements. Thus, he called her. This is she. However, many people say it is me instead of it is I, and so that usage has almost been rendered acceptable. But not by me yet 🙂 I suppose I could have said, “Most of the time Paul and I are the only ones dining along with …” and avoided the whole issue. Thanks for keeping me on my toes. Marni
2019/06/30 at 4:20 pm
George Hamma
Are you still with the Mercury News?
Contact - 2019/06/23 at 4:40 pm
Marni - In reply to George Hamma.
Yes!
2019/06/24 at 9:49 am
Jan Austin
From: Jan Austin
Subject: Thank you note column
Date: June 23, 2019 at 9:35:46 AM PDT
To: “Marni@marnijamison.com”
Hi Marni,
I don’t always make time to read my SJMN, but today, in Truckee, still in my pajamas, I am so happy I chose to read your Thank You Note column.
I’m 71 years old, and was raised in Virginia, so you know I learned to write and send the thank you notes written on time. My husband was raised in the same kind of family. When our 41-year old son could put a pencil or pen to paper, we began our efforts with him to write those notes. You will laugh to hear that during his wedding festivities 4 years ago, everyone who made a toast to him, or a speech honoring him, found a way to praise him for his always being the first thank you note to arrive in the speaker’s hands after he was shown a kindness or given a gift.
Thank you for the excellent column!
Jan Austin (don’t know why I couldn’t send this normally!
Contact - 2019/06/23 at 8:38 am
Marni - In reply to Jan Austin.
Nice job raising a son with such fine manners. Well done, Jan! And you’re welcome.
2019/06/24 at 9:50 am
thedofca
I just finished your column on thank you notes. I am of an age where if you wanted to thank someone you had to write, there was no internet. Even then not many people did. I still send thank yous on my informals and I am almost always thanked for my thank you. People appreciate the effort and are impressed by it. That said, in this day and age, I think it is necessary to send an email the very next day so the recipient knows you are still thinking of the wonderful party or the thoughtful gift. I then follow it up with a handwritten note. Immediacy is more important than formality today. The written note alone takes too long to receive. Do both. I disagree with your sales pitch for the stationery industry. Write it on anything and get it mailed. That’s the point.
Contact - 2019/06/23 at 8:14 am
Marni - In reply to thedofca.
I agree. I wanted to make that point in my column, but my word count did not permit. Thank you for mentioning. A quick email or text followed by a handwritten note is the way to go today.
2019/06/24 at 9:54 am
Jean Etsinger
Re: hand-written thank-you notes on nice stationery: Don’t hold your breath. Children in many public schools are no longer taught “penmanship” — i.e. cursive writing? As a result, kids can neither “hand write” or read what someone else (like Grandma sending them a thank-you note) has written. Even signatures are old school; faced with illegible scrawls, and not just from doctors, banks are largely doing away with “signatures” as proof of identity.
Contact - 2019/06/22 at 11:35 am
Marni - In reply to Jean Etsinger.
Sigh.
2019/06/24 at 9:51 am
Emily Remmert
As a new owner of a 4 mo old Goldendoodle puppy… your column on sunday about basic training for dogs is hysterical!! Counter surfing – who would have thought that would happen in my home.
Contact - 2019/06/10 at 8:30 am
RAMONA RAGNACCI
Thank you, Marni, for another great column. Another important fact about trees not mentioned is that they help supply the oxygen we all breathe. Trees are an intregal part of our environment. I cry whenever i see a tree being cut down. I live in an area where redwood trees are prevalent — do not hire anyone who wants to top the redwood as redwoods should never be topped. Thank you again for all your hard work on all of your columns.
Spring is Time for a Little Tree Appreciation - 2019/06/06 at 8:35 am
Marni - In reply to RAMONA RAGNACCI.
Thank you, Ramona. I did, however, thank the trees for our clean air in my opening sentence: “If you are breathing right now, thank a tree. While you’re at it, thank it not only for giving off oxygen, but also for cleaning the air, conserving water, preventing soil runoff, providing shade, supporting wildlife, and giving you a place to hide from your brother.” But you are definitely right, trees deserve a lot more appreciation and respect.
2019/06/06 at 8:58 am
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Ruth j Trowbridge
I am sitting here reading your column and trying to concentrate while having to listen to my neighbor’s three Pekinese half-breeds bark their heads off. These “brats” have changed my life and invaded my peace and quiet, to say nothing of my blood pressure. I have talked to their owner and even given her books on dog training, but she has absolutely no control over them and they ignore her every command. Perhaps you could say something in your follow-up column that addresses undisciplined dogs and their owners who seems to think dogs are entitled to bark. Help! Please and thank you.
Contact - 2019/06/01 at 8:51 am
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linda allen
Loved your article about dogs, on Saturday. Could you tell me the name and location of the Dog Boarding School, my grandson has a nearly 2 year old yellow lab, Lily, she is soooo sweet but she jumps up on everyone, hard for me to stand up while she has her paws over my shoulders.
Love your columns
Contact - 2019/06/01 at 4:49 am
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Donna M. Hartung
I loved your column today on being your own florist (May 24, 2019). The article gave me some more great ideas about bringing the outdoors inside. But, I wanted to add that when I bring in flowers or greenery, especially those with harder, woodier stems, I cut a line upwards (and sometimes two cuts) so that the stem can more easily “drink” the water. I also bring in leaves that I’ve trimmed and just put them in water and they last for months as roots grow — just keep adding water and, of course, sometimes changing the water. Thank you again for all your ideas — love your writing style!
Contact - 2019/05/24 at 4:30 am
Julie
Great tree article in the East Bay Times today! Trees are being cut down at an accelerated rate as development takes over in Walnut Creek. Very sad. Trees are the jewels of a city. Thank you, really enjoy your writing.
Contact - 2019/05/19 at 9:14 am
Elizabeth
Thanks for your column on the importance of the tree canopy for beauty, health and community! I would also enjoy your take on native shrubs and landscaping for homes, wildlife and water. Homeowner’s associations are now beginning to have opinions on that.
Contact - 2019/05/18 at 2:34 pm
Leslie
Marni, I read your column in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. After 31 years in the home where we raised our family, we moved into a larger home June, 2017. Everyone thought we were nuts not to downsize but after the kids and grandkids all came for Christmas, we realized we needed space to accommodate them all comfortably. After the move, friends kept asking if we were unpacked, decorated, etc. I felt terrible for not being able to get it together more quickly. Then I read your columns “Take it slow, steady…” and “”Questions about my move…”. Saved. My. Sanity! My decor items were bought for a different house so I needed to rethink everything (and I am not a decorator or quick decision maker!) Those articles are still posted in my laundry room and I reread them often. Thank you a thousand times!
Contact - 2019/05/11 at 6:40 am
Marni - In reply to Leslie.
So glad I’ve been helpful. Don’t beat yourself up. Your house will tell you what it needs.
2019/05/11 at 5:29 pm
Pat Schonwald
I enjoy reading all your articles, even when they may not apply to me or my home. But the March 16th article “What happens when your style is all of the above?” really hit home. NOT because I incorporate more than one style, but because my/our style was not really mentioned in your list of the 5 “styles”. We live in Oklahoma City, and my husband’s parents were very early collectors of both local Native American and Western History and Art, as well as the art of the New Mexican tribes. From Navajo rugs, Indian paintings from tribes both east, west and those “removed to Indian Territory”, as well as bronzes, pottery, etc, our house
has become very much what I call “Trading Post” style. I know the important thing is that we have been able to display it in ways that we enjoy it, thanks to the help of gallery owners, artists and friends with much more style in their DNA. Just wondered if you have ever run across this. And your thoughts when such strong influences take over?
Contact - 2019/04/17 at 8:08 am
Marni - In reply to Pat Schonwald.
Hi Pat, Of course, this book was not exhaustive. Hundreds of design styles went unmentioned, including “Trading Post.” Sounds as if you’ve given your home a sure hand, and have surrounded yourself with a look that reflects you. That’s the goal. Congratulations!
2019/04/17 at 6:05 pm
suzanne Mccrady
HOw do I find responsible deLERS FOR antique oriental dish wear and Suzanne current collection of pottery from Meta ORtiz (Mexico)
Contact - 2019/04/13 at 1:26 pm
Susanna
Dear Marni,
I enjoy reading your columns. I really enjoy your self-deprecating humor.
But, I just read the one on custom chair cushions, and I have to point out that the correct spelling for tight cushions is: “taut”, not “taught”.
Also, i can’t believe how much you were charged for them! Wow!
Contact - 2019/04/12 at 6:09 am
Marni - In reply to Susanna.
Of course, I know the difference between taut and taught, but this one fell through my fingers, and the copy editors missed it, too. Dang! And, yes, I overpaid for the cushions, for sure.
2019/04/17 at 6:07 pm
Wayne Krennerich
Decluttering is also a MUST if you live in flood prone areas. I have personally had to clean up 3 homes after flooding. Dad’s was easy as he has minimal stuff. My elderly aunt was most difficult do to the immensity of stuff, all beautiful but sentimental, crammed into her home. Hard to sort through dirty wet items when there Is an abundance.
What Realtors Wish More Senior Sellers Knew - 2019/04/10 at 11:18 am
Jamie McCaffery
I lived in my childhood home until I was married at 19. My parents bought our house in 1962 and never moved until a year ago when my 91 year old mother came to live with me. We still own the house and my sister and I live about five or ten minutes away. I guess we never left our childhood home. In fact, many of the kids we grew up with simply took over from their parents and moved into their childhood homes. At least four homes on our old block are occupied by the kids of the original owners. I must say this is pretty common in the South where I live. This was a great article. I guess we always feel an attachment to where we grew up.
You Can Go Home Again, and Maybe You Should - 2019/04/05 at 9:07 pm
Marni - In reply to Jamie McCaffery.
I love this story, Jamie. It makes me nostalgic for how things used to be, and I how, at times, I wish they still were. You see this a lot more in Europe, but so many Americans came from other places. Leaving home is in our natures. Where is this this home?
19/04/06 at 12:12 am
Mel Weiner
Marni Jameson
Have a Henredon bedroom set immaculate and a Eero Saarinen immaculate kitchen set.
What do you do when your are 91 years old.
Mel Weiner 925 798 1167
1432 Whitman Road
Concord 94518 mw7777@att.net
Contact - 2019/03/24 at 11:56 am
Marni - In reply to Mel Weiner.
Hi Mel, 1) Ask if anyone in your family wants it. 2) Ask friends. 3) Give it to the closest person to you who needs it. 4) See if you can find an estate-sale professional who might handle selling it for you. 5) Ask someone to help you post it and sell it on Craigslist. (Beware of scams and do this with someone familiar with the process.) Good luck. Marni
2019/03/24 at 6:57 pm
Karin
Very interesting perspective.
Our Deep Dependence on Stuff Is Only Human, Archeologist Says - 2019/03/20 at 8:18 pm
Charlotte Lynott
I’ve bought linen tea towels as souvenirs for years. I used to iron them, but now after washing them I fold them in half length-wise on top of the washer and “French press” them to get the wrinkles out. Works really well! And they’re great for drying glassware!
The Common Tea Towel Deserves More Respect - 2019/03/09 at 8:09 am
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Lois Rowe
I have never written to a columnist before but needed to tell you how much I enjoy reading your thoughtful and humorous articles in the Orlando Sentinal. Your column is the first thing I look at each Sat. The one with the archeologist and your parenthetical thoughts actually had me laughing out loud while agreeing! Thank you for your research and special way of presenting information.
Contact - 2019/03/02 at 6:28 am
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Risa Pierce
Marni, I so enjoyed you article on the common tea towel. Tea towels have been a staple in my family as long as I can remember. My mother is 93 and has always been quite the seamstress. She has continued to sew in one fashion or the other. She has an extensive collection of tea towels that she embroiders on. She is extremely creative and I would love to introduce you to her. I thought an article recognizing her talent would be a nice follow up to the tea towel article. Thank you for you consideration. Risa Pierce
Contact - 2019/02/19 at 2:51 pm
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Linda Buss
Hi Marni,
Miss your column since The Denver Post dropped it a couple of years ago.
Contact - 2019/02/19 at 2:03 pm
James J Davies
I read your wonderful column on keeping love alive this morning. It warmed my heart. I lost my beautiful wife of 52 years 7 months ago. Your column reminded me that your five ending points were exactly how we made our marriage work. I had “Good Morning Sunshine” imprinted on our bedroom wall. We always kissed when I came home, the evening meal was sacred, good manners were how I was raised, each of us had our own space, and little tokens of our love arrived throughout the year. Birthdays and Valentine’s Day were always good quality red and yellow roses mixed in a bouquet. Multiple Myeloma stole her from me. Our Gravestone up on Martha’s Vineyard has a carved ribbon with the words “True Love Conquers All” with our sunrise and sunset dates. I am going to send your column to my kids. Thanks for such a wonderful piece of work!
Contact - 2019/02/09 at 5:02 am
Marni - In reply to James J Davies.
Beautiful. You must miss her so.
2019/02/09 at 7:12 am
Lorraine
Hi Marni, I enjoyed your columns about your guest/ room for children and family. The one with the bird headboards. Please put a picture in the paper. We would love to see it. Thanks
Contact - 2019/02/03 at 2:08 pm
Marni - In reply to Lorraine.
Hi Lorraine, I just posted a picture of the headboard on my blog on this website. Next week, I will post the column and picture featuring the whole room. Meanwhile, if you do a search online, you will see both columns about my new kids’ guest room with photos. You didn’t mention what paper you get. My column runs in a couple dozen papers each week. I always turn the column in with a photo, but whether the editors use the art depends on their space. However, you can find my column online at other papers. Try googling Marni Jameson + Kids room. I post all columns on my blog three weeks after my subscribing papers run them. Best, Marni
2019/02/04 at 12:16 pm
Cathy Reynoldd
Add me to those who miss you in the Denver Post. It gets less and less relevant. Glad I found you on line!
A Look Back at 2018: Lessons Learned — Part 1 - 2019/02/02 at 10:27 am
Marni - In reply to Cathy Reynoldd.
I’m glad you found me, too!!
2019/02/04 at 12:16 pm
Cathy Reynolds
I got an itch to clean, edit and rearrange my nicknacks and strange collection of stuff. We are the end of the line for a lot of 3 Grandmas pretties. Plus my own. So, here I am with a dining room table crammed with neat things that do anything but creates a message of “me” or a cohesive vision. And I’m thinking it’s so sad no one but me cares about these thing and they’ll be garaged saled when I gone. No body loves them but me. Poor things. Poor me. Then in walk my son and daughter-in-law who start talking about how much they love this and that and how they look forward to seeing them when they visit. And since I like seeing them everyday, it is in with the old! Cleaned, partially rearranged, and not so edited!
A Look Back at 2018: Lessons Learned — Part 1 - 2019/02/02 at 10:24 am
Marni - In reply to Cathy Reynolds.
🙂
2019/02/04 at 12:17 pm
June
Hi Marni, I had to respond to the vet you consulted about dog beds. He seemed to poo-poo the idea of memory foam bedding, calling it “overkill.” I’ve had several elderly, arthritic cats that have greatly benefited from the support and padding that memory foam provides. (I also slipped a heated rice bag into their bed, but you don’t need to mention that to Dr. Dunbar.) Their stiffness of movement was noticeably improved. I have a feeling that most pet owners would agree.
Thanks for your columns every week. I always enjoy them.
Contact - 2019/02/01 at 9:18 am
Marni - In reply to June.
Hi June, I think what he didn’t like was the fact that some companies charge $300 for these mattresses. That he thinks is overkill. The warm rice bag sounds good to me!
2019/02/04 at 12:18 pm
Mary Lou Watkins
Dear Marni- After reading your article re:It’s never too soon to introduce kids to good quality and and style We had our grandchildren with us for quite a few years. When the oldest was in the 6th grade she was asked to write an article about the person she admired most. That person was ME, her grandmother. The things she remembered were not the furniture and blankets but all the fun things we did together such as going to the water park, having bicycles to ride up and down the block and swimming in our pool. We had a huge vinyl alligator and her grandpa was always patching the holes. Also at bedtime I would read to her and her brother the book called “Little Red, the Pony”. Had many other books but they both always loved the way I read the story to them. Her mom, our daughter, gave me this letter some years back (granddaughter is 31 years old) and I kept it secure. This past Christmas I decided to give back to our children/grandchildren the precious items of the past. When our granddaughter read over the letter she had written in the 6th grade, she again told me how she admired me still. Now that shows what mattered to our grandchildren…not the way their bedroom was decorated. Just thought I would give you another perspective!
Contact - 2019/01/28 at 12:02 pm
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Penny
Just read your “end of year” column.
In it you write:
IN DECEMBER I stepped in reindeer doo and wore the hair Santa suit when a column I wrote on Christmas tree “mistakes” and their fixes went over like a lead ornament. Readers gave me a lump of coal for suggesting they edit their ornaments, so their trees look more cohesive. Fifty lashes with a wet candy cane for me.
Lesson: Some people want a tree that looks good. Some want a tree that feels good. Whatever, don’t mess with tradition, she said, signing off for 2018.
My comment: You can have a tree that looks good AND feels good. I’ll take a tree with personalized ornaments over a tree with “decor” ornaments any day.
Contact - 2019/01/22 at 12:00 pm
Joan Gnauden
Always enjoy your articles because they are informative, fun to read and sometimes humorous. (Tomato cage as a tree decoration?). Last Sundays article about contractors was spot on. After almost 40 years of dealing with contractors, I would only add one thing. Before I ask anyone to come to my home for a bid, I always go on line to the State Board of Licenses and check out the company. You can find out if the license is current, if they are insured, bonded and have workman’s compensation when applicable. There have been times when I discovered that the so-called license number was made up. It is surprising how many people just take it for granted that it is legitimate. Looking forward to your next column.
Contact - 2019/01/16 at 7:01 pm
Jo Dettmore
Hi Marni,
Your column today on finding a contractor prompted me to write. My husband and I, in our 70’s/80’s, are planning to replace all of the flooring in our 1400 sq. ft. townhome and are in the beginning stages of looking for a good/reputable flooring contractor. Our main concern is being taken advantage of because of our age and also the fact that we are both vertically challenged (short!) and have been taken advantage of previously. Can you give us any advice on how to handle this? Thank you so much!
Contact - 2019/01/12 at 7:38 am
Marni - In reply to Jo Dettmore.
Hi Jo, Gosh, I am sorry to hear you feel discriminated against for your age and size. I’m prompted to quote Eleanor Roosevelt here: No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. Perhaps do as much as you can by email and phone, and have someone with you when you meet, perhaps your son or daughter? Good luck, Marni
2019/01/21 at 9:07 am
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