I wondered, after getting the finished plans from the decorator, if really all of this money and stuff would really be worth it. And I can say that definitely, yes, I am really happy with the change that has been made. Brandon is happy that I am happy, so that means that everyone is happy.
Every time I walk down the stairs or in the door, I feel happy about my space. I like to sit on the couch, admire my home, and feel the warm cozy glow of being in a lovely, cheerful room.
I tell myself that happiness isn't based on stuff and of course it isn't, but I do like having a space in my house that is so pleasant to be in. If everything burns up in a house fire or drops to the bottoms of the sea, I'll be a little sad. But for now I enjoy it.
I've always been hesitant about having all of the knick-knacks that decorators use to make give a room the 'cluttered' look, as Sophia calls it, because of the children. A bowl full of ceramic balls says "SMASH ME!!!" to any child under the age of twelve.
But I've been shocked at how well the children have left things alone. Eleanor will occasionally take off with her favorite bronze horse knick-knack exclaiming "Doggie!! Ruff! Ruff!", but all five of the ceramic balls have actually remained intact. I underestimated the children's self control. And I also realize that I haven't been laying down enough laws around here.
And the best part about all of this? We get to keep it for over two more years. That's long enough that leaving feels like a far-off myth. I don't know what I'll do with myself when we retire and actually stick around for a decade or two.
And here's a picture of Joseph. Because Joseph loves having his picture taken. And who can resist that smile?
