Big Love

Slowly a new space opens up and transmutes into a home

After a recent move I have been settling into my new space. This place is rented and came furnished. I am starting over, as I left pretty much all my belongings behind. I have noticed that some things have made it feel more like a new home for my children and me.

Hanging my artwork. Hanging up my own artwork, deciding what I wanted to surround myself with, putting nails into the wall, instantly changed the way the place felt.

Music. Adding music and speakers to the space was a noticeable mood uplifter.

Plants. I love houseplants and outdoor plants alike. In my new space there is not a garden. So I brought in a few plants and they instantly add a home feel.

Cut flowers. I wrote a previous post called “buy the darn tulips” which is about treating yourself to flowers. I notice that when I have them, the whole place feels more welcoming.

Blankets. Unfortunately my new space is cold. Having several throw blankets draped on furniture adds a nice layer to the space.

Products that I like. When I first moved here the place had a very strong, unappealing smell. Coming home made me go, ewww. I found and removed all the chemical cleaning products, candles, diffuser, and replaced them with products I like. I took them to the toxic waste drop-off center. I choose to use unscented chemical free cleaning products and natural candles. I also like EO brand hand soap, things like that make it feel like home.

Candles. I mentioned choosing natural candles. I love beeswax candles, and particularly Big Dipper Waxworks. My place does not have any dimmers on the lights (!), so candles in the evening are helpful in letting my brain know it is time for bed.

Rearranging furniture. Moving things around helps me customize the space.