I am committed to the notion of home. I want my home to be the kind of place where people can relax, be themselves, rest, and enjoy each other's company. I also want to bring that sense of home to the places I visit and engage with. What does it mean to build a home? What ingredients are included?
I was born into a warm sense of home in the three decker where I first lived. Nana and Papa lived on the first floor; my family lived on the second floor; and a nice old man lived on the third floor. Later a friend of my grandparents moved to the third floor. There was always happy activity at the three decker which included a variety of interesting spaces, a big yard, and a lively neighborhood too.
Later my family moved into a single family home. I lived in that home full time for twelve years. In the early years that home represented warmth too. Later as the family grew and the world changed, that was still my home, but there was less peace there due to a large number of challenges that came our way. Looking back I can see that the challenges began as life became more complicated for many family members. It was more difficult in those years to create the kind of harmony that supports a loving, peaceful home.
I moved on to many living situations after that. In each place, I tried to create a spirit of home. In many ways it was a reach due to the complications of life, but in general, eventually my husband and I did create a warm home for our children and other loved ones who visit often. As I consider home today, I realize that I'm at a crossroads with regard to home now. This is a time when we can deepen our commitment to our current home in ways that welcome family or we could move to a new home and essentially a new lifestyle now that our children have grown. We won't make any big decisions now, but we will continue to focus on the aspects of home that bring peace, love, and care to one another.
Simplicity
In a home that's essentially simple, there's less complication and more ease. That's a forever aim for me.
Warmth
Less busy schedules, more open spaces, and comfortable spaces invite warmth.
Healthy food
Cabinets and a fridge with healthy ingredients lead to ease of making healthy, delicious meals.
Creative, positive endeavor
Opportunity to engage in creative, positive activities together build a positive sense of home. Making, game playing, puzzles, and celebrations enliven homes.
Gardens and other natural spaces
Creating and nurturing positive natural spaces in and around your home creates greater warmth.
A good home requires time and space for one another. It is a place where you can tell your stories and listen to others' tales; play games and create, relax, and care for others. To create a sense of home wherever you are is a positive aim in life. Onward.