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THINGS TO BE THANKFUL FOR THIS MONDAY

It’s Monday and I’m refilling my coffee cup for the third time to ward off the yawning. I’m trying to be more thankful for the little things, and as cliche as it may be, it really makes a difference. Wherever you are in life or location, here are some universals on this Monday to be thankful for:

  • You had a restful, beautiful weekend full of something other than work or school. Cherish that time you had to rejuvenate.
  • You have a job or class to wake up for. So many people don’t — remember that.
  • If the sun is shining where you are, realize it and be thankful. If it’s raining or gray, be thankful that sweater weather hasn’t yet subsided.
  • That glorious cup of coffee you’re sipping on (for it’s magical powers and bold, smooth taste).
  • Catching up with co-workers and friends after the weekend. You have people in your life that want to connect with you — don’t take that for granted.
  • If you’re like me, you have a Sunday evening laundry tradition, which means that come Monday morning, all of your favorite clothes are clean. Your favorite comfy chic sweater is enough to ward off the Monday blues.
  • Leftovers for lunch. Maybe you went on a date or stayed in and cooked up a storm this weekend, making for a tasty lunch of leftovers.
  • Your entire week is ahead of you. Don’t think of it as a foreboding five days of work, but as time to accomplish what is needed, love those around you, and spend time doing what you’re passionate about. This day, and the rest of this week, have the capacity for so much beauty.

The Importance of Decorating

Fashion and decor often get a bad rap. They are seen by many as frivolous and indulgent, materialistic and unimportant.

While a Pinterest-perfect home is far from necessary, a home that makes you smile surely is. Whether you have a home full of coveted antiques, cool modern furniture, or nothing but IKEA, if your home makes you happy, that’s what really matters.

 

YOUR HOME IS AN OASIS

Treat your home like the paradise that it is. Home is where we enjoy time with friends, relax after a long day, and create amazing memories. When decorating your home, think about the purpose you want it to serve, and design with that purpose in mind. Just by choosing the right bedsheets and paint, your room can become more relaxing, letting you have a better night’s sleep. A larger dining table with comfortable chairs encourages your beloved guests to stay for one more glass of wine.

 

EXPRESS YOURSELF

“Home is where we create, relax, live, and love. A well-decorated home is a stage for a well-lived life.”

Just as one expresses themselves through their hairstyle or outfits, your home can be a true reflection of who you really are. If you live alone, go all out! Pick your favorite pieces and items and get creative, mixing and matching until your eyes see nothing that does not bring joy. If you share your home, collaborate with that person. Ask them what is important to them, what they love. While challenging, finding a way to bring two styles together can be a bonding experience, and the end product something you will both enjoy for a lifetime. When friends walk through your door, they should look around and see you. 

 

DON’T FORGET YOUR PAST

Your home is the perfect place to sprinkle meaningful pieces around. Your grandmother’s chair, a photo of a city you love, or an uncle’s painting are tangible ways to pay homage to the people and places we love. Mixing old with new is a sure way to create an interesting, beautiful space. You’ll literally be surrounding yourself with love when you incorporate family pieces with your own personal picks.

 

Your home can be whatever you want it to be. Don’t overlook the power of decorating. Allow your home to be appealing, comfortable, and serve a purpose beyond simply being a shelter. Home is where we create, relax, live, and love. A well-decorated home is a stage for a well-lived life.

THIS KITCHEN IS WHAT MY DREAMS ARE MADE OF

One of the most exciting parts about planning to move in with my guy is talking about our decorating styles. I’ve also admittedly been binge-watching House Hunters, so we’ve been having a lot more conversations about what we want in a home lately. At this point, we’ll be renting, but that doesn’t stop us from talking about what we want in the first home we own. We have different tastes (me: light, airy, and white, and him: dark, traditional, and comfortable). So, when we both agreed that our dream kitchen will look like Justina Blakeney’s from The Jungalow, I couldn’t believe we reached an agreement.

 

We loved the green and white color scheme, which makes it feel light and airy without being too feminine. The copper accents are my favorite part, and I just bought the copper Bodum french press after seeing this kitchen. The custom tile and backsplash are to die for. And the open shelves filled with plants are what my dreams are made of. You get the picture: I love this kitchen as much as I love life itself.