Week of March 13th to March 19th:[choose a day that works best for you or, if you're reading this at a later date, include this in next week's schedule]
Assignment:
Take a trip to all your local home improvement stores (some people, like me, are able to visit three) and collect the following:
- paint chip samples: gather bunches from each store. Don't settle for just one color family and gather colors that you don't even like. Be sure to visit the areas where faux finishes are available because there are some very interesting finishes available in paint chip form.
- brochures: in the kitchen and bath departments, glossy magazine-style brochures are available for customers to take with them for free. Some of these home improvement centers also have these brochures available in the window and door departments, as well.
- flyers: there's always a sale or some kind of promotion going on. Grab these flyers, including the credit card applications.
- calendars: some of these stores have event calendars and promotional calendars free for the taking. Don't forget to gather these, also.
- other promotional items: if there's a special going on in the store, a demonstration or some other event, there's usually "take one" items to go along with that.
Next, visit your local mall. Pick up as many brochures, bookmarks, postcards and sales flyers that are available. Points of interest: the information center, "where are we" map boards, kiasks in the center of the aisles, displays outside of stores, sections next to registers, information pamphlets next to products and sections next to the exits of stores and mall enterences. The last time I did this, I was able to fill a bag with a lot of interesting finds.
As with Artist Date Idea #1, when you return home, find a small box (a shoe box works best - If you don't have one, plan ahead for this project by saving a cereal or other large sized food box). Once you have your box or container, place all your items collected inside.
What do you have? Another creativity kit! This time, the only thing it cost you was the gas to travel and time. (and a coffee or snack if you decide to treat yourself while on your date) As with Artist Date Idea #1, add things you have around your house that tie in with the theme of your date:
