Several weeks ago, I attended a function to benefit the Itafari Foundation, an organization supporting innovative community projects in Rwanda.

An undulating wave of beautifully colored, handmade baskets greeted me as I walked through the door. I’ve never completely understood the essence of basket weaving yet at a fundamental level these objects are a symbol of giving and sustainability within a community.

Looking over the pieces, I felt a sudden loss as I remembered a friend saying, “When you find your basket, you’ll just know it’s the right one.” I chuckled to myself when she said this to me, because I couldn’t conceive of the day when MY basket would appear.

So I took the challenge. I decided to pick up each basket and hold it.  What was I looking for? The right texture, weight, color, or size?

Suddenly it all started making sense. Once I put a basket in my hands, a modern day Goldilocks took shape. “No, this one is to wide. No, this one is the wrong color. No, this one is too light.” Finally I kept coming back to the same basket, and I just knew she was the one for me.

A powerful sensation resides in depths of a handmade object. These baskets were lovely to look at, but when I held one in my hands and connected through touch, I began to understand its story and the passion woven into its structure by a group of resilient people. These baskets are created by women in Rwanda and are part of a sustainable income project partnered through Macy’s. When I lifted the basket to my nose, I could smell the fresh cut grass, and instantly imagined the hands of the woman who brought it to life.

This Rwandan basket now rests on my desk, softening the sharp edges of my computerized space, while holding and transforming bits of my life. I think it’s fitting to have baskets be one symbol of building peace in Rwanda.

During this season of giving and gratitude, I look forward to celebrating and contributing to projects such as the Itafari Foundation, who seek to support the reimagining of a sustainable and creative ecological culture in Rwanda.

Question: I am a single woman looking for a relationship. I heard that in Feng Shui it is better to have two bedside tables in the bedroom than one. Is that true? And do you suggest that I do that in my bedroom?

–Andrea from Madison, Wisconsin

Cheryl Janis: In my work as a Feng Shui Consultant, many of my single clients call me in with the intention of finding a romantic relationship.

After seeing some of their bedrooms (often with a one-night-stand next to their bed), it became clear that the symbology of objects and furniture in the room kept them locked in their single status. That coupled with images on the wall of a single person or a single object…well, you get my meaning. The inner reflects the outer and therefore, if the inner expression wants a partner, than the outer expression has to change.

Whenever a client is looking for a romantic partnership in their life I always suggest to start by thinking in the number two. And yes, that includes adding a second bedside table. The idea is to make room for your beloved in a physical and energetic way. Think of it as an invitation to the Universe to draw this special person to you. So yes, Andrea, add a second bedside table and try to match it to the one you already have. Think of it as equal sides to the relationship. While you’re at it, bring in matching lamps, candles and create romance in the bedroom with passionate colors, lush fabric and whatever else you love.

While your waiting for your partner to show up, why not get into loving yourself in your favorite new space.  Don’t you deserve it?

Question: I am a single 45 year old woman and want to bring love into my life. Are there any Feng Shui and design recommendations you can give me. I feel kind of lost.

–E.W. Los Angeles, CA

CJ: Thank-you for your question.

First of all, congratulations for paying attention to this very important area of the home. Not only is it the place where we connect to our partners, it is also the place where we rest, relax and reconnect to ourselves.

If you want to bring love into your life, start by thinking in the number two. For example, make sure to place two bedside tables of equal height on each side of the bed. The symbology is giving equal sides to the relationship that you intend to manifest. Include two of your favorite table lamps.

Also choose a color for the wall that is soothing and relaxing and evokes a sense of peace. Stay away from extreme colors on the walls like bright red or cold blue.

Make your bedroom romantic and inviting by adding some warm colors, for example, in your duvet, or in your pillows and/or draperies. Choose soft and luscious items (earth friendly please) like eco-silk and/or organic cotton.

Before you begin, sit down for 15 minutes and visualize your dream space. What would it look it? What would your future partner like? Feel into that and then begin to create it. Most importantly, have fun.

Got a Feng Shui or design question, ask me here.

David Trubridge, who is creative force behind the design of the outdoor bed “Float” (for Design Mobel) was influenced by his journeys sailing through the Caribbean and the Pacific with his family.

Who wouldn’t want to lounge in an outdoor canopy bed that feels like one is sailing on the ocean?

More from the designer:

In exploring what sleep means to people, I came to the conclusion that beds needed to be more romantic, and more flexible in their design and application. The design elements drawn on in my concept come from the idea that the bed could be moved and used wherever required. The concept forms a cocooning space that gives a feeling of security and serves the purpose of sheltering sleep from the elements, creating a private sleep space within another space. Laminated Tawa is curved to form the canopy and base and fabric made from hemp is stretched across the Tawa to complete the design.

I love the word cocooning when coupled with a nap in the above bed. How about you?

Very creative indeed.  For more info on the designer, follow me.

Question: Is there something special that I should see when I open up my front door? A mirror or a flower vase or something else?

G.L. –Portland, Oregon

C.J.: Ah, I love this question. Thank-you for asking it.

Entryways serve as greeters each time we walk into our front door. It’s such an important area as it sets the tone for our experience inside.

If the area is cluttered and ugly…well you can imagine how that will affect how we feel and contribute to lower energy levels.

However, if the area is beautiful, for example set up with a beautiful vase of flowers on a special table or our favorite bold print is hanging on the wall, that will speak joy to our hearts, even on the most challenging of days.

For many of us, the entryway is an area where we leave our ’stuff’ like our purses, keys, umbrellas, etc. and can get cluttered. If this is the case, first get organized. Keep what you don’t need and get rid of the rest.

Think of this area as your personal welcoming station where you have that special bowl for your keys and a sweet mood light that draws you into the area.

Whatever you decide to place in your entryway, make it something you love, or a collection of things that bring peace and love into your heart. After all, our home is our sanctuary and is the one place where we can truly relax and be at peace.