Debbie Travis

Homes Q&A that holds stuff offers triple service and is easy to move around.

Dear Debbie;

Our son is off to college and we are madly packing up the essentials for surviving away from home. Our lists are very different — I’m thinking cooking and studying, he’s all about the best computer, social media links and music. I know you have been through this with your boys. Any tips?

~ Barb

Dear Barb;

I was focused on making my son’s new, very tiny dorm room as homey and cheerful as possible. We were not allowed to paint, which is my favourite modus operandi. However, there was a bed to make. I discovered a bed in a bag and thought it was perfect. Sheets, pillow case, duvet all in one. These are often available at a discount around this time of year and are rugged enough to last for the duration. Easy care was guaranteed. I also chose a small, patterned rug and a good towel set all in dark colours. Some recycled dishes, silverware and a kettle and I was done. He added posters.

He moved out in September. In January he notified us that he had a girlfriend, and, being the good mother, I told him to make sure his room was tidy, bed clean, dishes washed. He was in a different country, so I couldn’t check myself. There was a pause on the phone, and with a voice that covered emotions including surprise, embarrassment and guilt, he admitting to not washing his bedsheets ever. Yuck. Not my problem. But very glad I went for dark colours. I should have been clearer on laundry timelines. Good luck with your shopping list. The stores know what you need and they’ve got your back.