DEAR ABBY: "Wally" and I have been married for 15 years. We've had our ups and have been through some difficult situations. We support each other and care deeply, but there's one problem we cannot agree on.
Wally loves our house and has decided that all the walls should be painted white. We don't paint that often, but now that we've made some improvements to our home, it's time to paint again.
I would like to get away from the all-white look and consider using wallpaper. I've brought home wallpaper sample books and paint color charts, but all he'll say is that white looks best. He refuses to look through the books or compromise in any way.
We have lived in this white house for 12 years, and I think it's time I had my way. I could wait until he goes on a business trip and redecorate while he's gone, but that would be dishonest. I'm home more than he is since our children have come along. What should I do? -- COLORLESS IN NEWBURYPORT, MASS.
DEAR COLORLESS: An interior decorator who is used to sales resistance may help you convince Wally that a dash of color will liven up the place. Keep in mind that it doesn't have to be all or nothing. A decorator can help you "accessorize" your home with accents of color and texture, making it more visually interesting and less sterile. The bathrooms and kitchens would be the least threatening places to begin.