Because Linn is a Feng Shui practitioner her advice on planning includes solid guidance on altar placement and set up which I found interesting.

The book goes on to suggest various altar activities such as prayer, mantra, affirmation, contemplation, creative visualization and listening.  For my new altar I decided to focus on contemplation and prayer.  

I have two shrines in my home already.  One in the living room and another on the dresser top in my bedroom.  What I like about this third spot (set up on my grandma's old cedar chest and just below an east facing window) is that it isn't just to look at.  I can also sit in front of it and say a prayer.

One warning about the book: It could make you a little altar crazy.  While the new altar makes three, I am already thinking about a fourth - a family altar on the coffee table in the den.  While I won't call it an altar, it will be a great place to celebrate tradition and the cycle of the year.

I while post pictures when I'm done!