Sometimes even this decor loving homebody needs a new view.
Come see what I have in mind...
So. I've always been a homebody. That's no secret.
However.
This is a little too much time at home even for me.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not complaining. I'm happy to do my part to protect myself and others, but the view is getting a little old.
It's funny, during the first few weeks of lockdown, I couldn't remember why I was so desperate to get a new couch. What was wrong with it?
And did it really matter?
When you're concerned about your health and safety and trying to get food, suddenly the things that seemed so important before, fall to the bottom on the list.
As well they should...
Of course, as the days and weeks have blended into a giant blur and we begin the settle into this new reality, the old silly things quietly creep their way to the surface again.
Well, that, and decorating is a much, much more appealing topic than the news. And a lovely distraction from the fact that we'll be spending a lot more time at home.
So with decor back on my mind, I've been paying more attention to my surroundings -which isn't always a good thing.
Suddenly, I'm noticing the tiny cracks in the wall, the chips in the paint and the worn spots in the carpet.
It doesn't help that like everyone else, I've been online more, looking at beautiful pictures, getting inspired and realized that it was ok to get back to what I started a few months ago...refreshing this place.
I mean do this at the beginning of every season anyway, but this year, this spring, it feels different. I feel like I want to ditch everything and start all over.
And this time - maybe - with a little less red.
Did you gasp?? I did. I can't believe I feel this way.
I've always love, love, loved every inch of my home, especially the red. It feeds me. It's cozy. But the longer I spend captive in these walls, it feels heavy and a little bit overwhelming.
I'm not getting rid of it, I just have the urge to add a few more neutrals. So I can appreciate the strategically placed pops of color...like I started doing this winter in the kitchen.
And in my master bathroom.
I like the aesthetic and would like to feel that calm lightness of spirit in every room.
So I'm doing it. Since I'm stuck here, I figured why not. Besides, it really is about time.
Not much has changed around here since we moved in almost 20 years ago.
Of course, the red is not going anywhere, I adore it.
The plan is to just tuck some of it away until the fall, when I'll invariably begin to miss it and need to bring it back out. Maybe.
I've been down this road before and it didn't take...but I think I'm ready to jump this time.
And little changes can make a huge difference.
So that's where I'll start. Like...
I'm thinking about a brown or natural rug under the kitchen table. I think it'll make my new curtains stand out more and really take an elegant center stage.
Update! This room got a makeover!!
I bought a new rug last year, but I think I need something more neutral.
I can always bring back the color later in the season if I want.
I also saw a bench the last time I was in Pier 1 at a round table and now I want one.
I think it would look neat around my own...and open the room up a bit.
Since I can't find the exact one I want, I will have to have Mr. Fix It make me one when we can get some wood. I'd like it to be sort of rustic and curved, like an old picnic bench. (psst--- he did it!)
Right now Home Depot is closed to shoppers and only doing curbside pick up so we'll have to figure that one out...but that's ok. I can be patient.
Next up, I would like to make a new kitchen sink skirt. I have some more neutral toned fabric sitting in the box that I could use. The other one I made has been washed and tucked away for now.
We need new outdoor umbrellas. I can order those from a local variety/ drug store that's still open and have them delivered. I like using local mom and pop shops, especially now with so many struggling.
I always get red ones, but this year, I was contemplating getting white ones for a cleaner look.
I'm on the fence about that one. I might need to keep that red outside. I'll keep you posted.
I'm also thinking about getting new cushions for our outdoor screened in porch furniture. The old ones are a bit stained and smushed.
They're several years old and don't have the support they used to.
Yes, I could wash them, but I think I want white ones now. Maybe.
Are you sensing a trend?
I was contemplating covering them, but that's a lot of work and by the time I factor in the cost of new fabric and delivery, because I can't get anything locally, I could buy them for the same or less.
The living room needs a lift, too. Maybe a good cleaning and bit of tweaking. Nothing major, but I've need a few new lamps.
And those curtains have been up there since 2003...time for change maybe? (New ones are up, too!)
Or not.
The family room couch - the thing that started it all - will still have to wait.
No places to buy a couch now or get one delivered.
That's all ok though, since we're living on that sucker right now and once a new one shows up no one will be allowed to sit on it for months.
Besides, it gives me time to contemplate the changes I really want to make in there. I think they may be more comprehensive than I originally planned. But that's another story.
In the meantime, I'm going to get to work.
Shopping. Sewing.
And planning those projects.
So this homebody can love her home, all over again.
Do you redecorate often.
Wow, Kim, I don't see a single thing that needs changing. It's all in your head girl...and that's the problem...we're all into our heads too much, LOL.
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean though.
Right now I'm so busy selling on Etsy, and painting things for my booth, I'm behind on the laundry, cleaning, and yard work that needs doing. I haven't had time yet to assess what I can change in the house.
Thank you, Florence! You are very sweet. The house hasn't really been updated in too many years. It all looks good in photos, but up close there is wear. Plus, after 20 years, I'm itching for a new view! I need to check out your Etsy shop and see what you've got up for sale...now that I'm in a shopping mood!!
DeleteI love your home Kim, it is just so "you"! But I understand what you're saying... sometimes we just need a change, something different, and I look forward to seeing how all the ideas in your head get to come out and play in your home :) I always love your style! Many blessings!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much, Marilyn, what a sweet and touching comment. I really appreciate it, my friend. Blessings to you!
DeleteI love your home. But I can understand the need to change things up. I usually don't do much changing at my home.
ReplyDeleteI've actually only been doing a few little things and it feels right. 🙂
DeleteGreat ideas Kim. Not getting rid of all your red may make the transition easier plus I love your red.
ReplyDeleteA neutral rug under the table will make those pretty curtains shine. I love them.
Instead of a white umbrella how about khaki or soft tan. We had ivory and it got filthy from rain, birds etc. Lasted a season. We don't buy expensive outdoor pieces all the time but it was a bummer.
Enjoy your planning
Cindy
Thanks Cindy...and yes, I have been looking for a neutral rug for that table. The size is always an issue, but I'm working on it.
DeleteHi Kim,
ReplyDeleteI will be looking forward to what you decide. And I always learn from you as you tackle a project.
With that outside umbrella... I like the red. I will be excited to see how you change it up. Your zinnia make me smile in the umbrella photo. I cannot wait for flowers.
I ordered red umbrellas, Carla! I couldn't resist that pop...go figure.
DeleteI think staying home gives us too much time to think about things in our homes. I have been focusing on outside a lot. We do need a large patio umbrella for our outdoor kitchen island. I have been looking for awhile. I changed the colors to a aqua, more of a beachy theme. I hope your spring weather arrives son.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Linda. We opened the pool a few weeks ago and then it snowed on Saturday which is basically unheard of around here. It was funny to see it snowing on my flamingo float!!
DeleteLove your umbrella in the red. Your flowers in the background look so beautiful. Loved seeing all the pictures of your pretty house. I love your signature red but totally understand you wanting to update things. Happy Wednesday. At least I think it is Wednesday lol! Have a good day.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Kris
Thanks Kris! I caved and just bought three more red umbrellas. I'm a creature of habit! Have a great week!
DeleteEvery time I stop by to catch up with you, I find some little (or big) treasure! Your first picture of the living room couch... I love the idea of adding a blanket and matching pillows! With this brilliant idea, I can change the whole look of my living room!
ReplyDeleteGot to go... I'm on a mission!
Thanks Christine! I hope you have fun decorating.
DeleteThis is what happens when we have to much time on our hands Kim. We get obsessive over everything. I can see all the spots of dirt and all the areas in the house that look bare. Pretty soon there won't be any space left to hang anything else. Stay safe!
ReplyDeleteSo funny, Mary! Hopefully, I'll be rescued by the warmer temps and get outside so I can obsess over something better like a good book in the pool. Hahaha!
DeleteI can understand how you feel about wanting to make changes in your home since we are all inside so much. I wanted to change all of my furniture in my house at one point but I decided not to do it. We really live every room in my house and want to be comfortable. I like making little changes like adding a new lamp or rug. I love your red umbrella and your porch furniture is gorgeous. I can't wait to see the changes you decide to make to your home.
ReplyDeleteWe just got new red umbrellas yesterday, Julie. I can't wait to set them up for a pop of color!
DeleteI was very motivated to refresh some things until all of this hit. Oh well. I am still trying to at least keep things clean & fresh....that goes a long way.
ReplyDeleteI've been writing a lot of letters & am working on some things to mail to my boys that I usually teach at church. Plus playing with a two year old means I don't get much else done.
Playing with a two year old sounds like a fabulous distraction, Jenny!!
DeleteWe women just get that way every now and then but, it's ok. I know you will find a way to settle all these changes. I have been busy outside when it's pretty and by the time i have a cold day i am ready to rest,lol! I didn't know i still had muscles that could get so sore. Can't wait to see what you decide.
ReplyDeleteI need a change, that's for sure, Marlene. So far it's just been tiny things, but they're doing the trick!
DeleteKim, it's not that I don't think you have good taste and couldn't make a change that would be wonderful, but everytime I see your sofa (s) and your butter colored walls and the red in your kitchen I actually get a little jealous because it is so relaxing and pretty to me. That being said, I know how wonderful some changes would be around here and imagine we are all feeling the same, so I do agree with you. Go for it and do what you can and I will love it all, I know. And, Home Depot is closed? I didn't know that so that puts all this in perspective. That just doesn't seem right~!! Stay well safe..xxoJudy
ReplyDeleteJust a few changes, Judy. I don't paint and I don't think I can motivate my DIY guy to do it right now. Spring is his outside time. The family room needs repainting, but is it crazy that I would just repaint it the same color?? Hahaha!
DeleteWe seem to always have some project we're working on. When you finish one thing, the next room looks tired. I'm looking forward to seeing your projects!
ReplyDeleteI agree, Mari!! My DIY list seems to be never-ending...
DeleteI was smiling through your whole post because I have all these plans for changing things up in my house, too! Maybe it's because we're mostly completely homebound now, that we are tired of looking at the same ol', same ol'. I have spent way too much time online looking for all these things I want to change and do, and it is completely overwhelming. It's hard to find exactly what you're looking for and you fall down all those internet rabbit holes. I did find a new set of patio chair cushions online at Target. It's a start.
ReplyDeleteWe also need a new couch and I'm so sick of looking at our old, dirty one that I'm thinking about having Brian and our next door neighbor chucking it to the curb this weekend! Hmm, guess I should write a blog post about that and what my plans might be.
Have a good day, Kim! xoxo
Oh Melanie, I know about those shopping rabbit holes! I've been making wish lists all over the internet. I wish I could order a couch online!! Haha...
DeleteI love the pattern on your couch!!! Maybe just a new couch cover. It's cheaper and you would still have the original if you wanted to go back to it!! I want to look for a fitted couch cover for ours. It's an off-white and doesn't look right with anything in the living room!!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Carol! I have been looking for couch covers. So far I haven't found anything I love, but I'm still searching. I hope that you can find one, too!
DeleteWell, aren't you the brave one? I can't wait to see what you do. I just about always come back to neutrals with pops of color here and there according to the season. Your home is beautiful and a true reflection of your warm spirit and I know that no matter what you do-that same spirit will shine through. Stay Safe- xo Diana
ReplyDeleteOh just a little bit here and there. I always end of chickening out of removing the red.I try it, live with it for a day or two and then decide, nope, I need that pop!
DeleteWOW!!! You have a LOT of projects planned:) They all sound great too. Now you've made me want to make some changes, but we've spent so much money on the yard I'll have to save up some $$$. The yard looks great though:) Your wood floor in the kitchen is beautiful!!! About the white umbrella...my advice would be to rethink that. Seems to me that would get dirty rather quickly. I want a new one myself but I've looked and looked online and can't find one I want. I like lots of color and all I can find is solids. I have loved, loved the striped one we have but it's gotten dirty and faded. Anyway!!!! Enjoy all your projects. Everything you do always looks great so I can't wait to see pictures!
ReplyDeleteHi Cheri! Like you I can't seem to sit still! It's been fun to shop...just a little...and redecorate with what I have on hand. And thank for the tip. I decided to get red ones again after all. You weren't the only one to say that white gets very dirty. That's a no! Oh and have you tried Lowe's for a striped umbrella? I just saw them online while I was searching for my own. They were pretty!!
DeleteIt is nice that you have a plan and a project to keep you busy with positive things. I think that it is even a little nice that not everything you need is immediately available - gives you more time to consider and be creative. I love your home, I enjoy being part of the process, and I adore the little rocking chair.
ReplyDeleteAmalia
xo
Hello my friend. Yes, projects are a great distraction. I have enjoyed getting lost in my sewing box!
DeleteWhatever you decide to do it will look great in the end I am confident. You are creative and have an eye for beauty. Your house look lovely!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Angela…I feel the same way about your my friend. You have a great eye for creating beauty and capturing the beauty around you.
DeleteI've always loved the way you've decorated your home. It's warm, welcoming and filled with so many stories and memories. But change is good too and it makes room for new memories and with your touch it, there's no doubt that it will still be a real home, filled with love.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Michelle. I'm only making small changes, I'm a sentimentalist. It's hard for me to make big swaps, but I'm enjoying the process.
DeleteSo beautiful. You decorate very tastefully . I do love the red, though.
ReplyDeletegramswisewords.blogspot.com
Thank you so much...and I decided to keep a lot of the red, just toning it down a bit for summer. Thanks for the visit!
DeleteI don't think I ever realized your dining table is exactly like the one we had at the cabin. It's perfect there, and I think a bench would be lovely.
ReplyDeleteI've always liked red...in OTHER people's homes. I do feel it's a bit heavy, particularly during warmer months, but you have the midas touch and have managed not to overdue it. As others have mentioned, I think most of us are feeling the need to change things up. Heck, even I'M doing that and we've been here less than 2 years! lol Just yesterday I bought some new drapes for the master bedroom and sitting room, even though there's nothing wrong with what's there. That's not usually the way I operate. I'm more of a 'if it's not broken don't fix it' kinda gal, but being home so much, well, you know.
I like the red umbrella, and will caution you about a white one. Other than that, I'm all for decorating in white. It's so fresh and bright and not something one gets tired of.
xxx
Hello Doreen! Always good to hear from you. Hoping you are well and safe and your family, too.
DeleteI’ve had fun changing things up and yes, you’re right, every spring and summer, I feel the need to lighten the red up a bit. I’ve been hiding off line for a while, but today, I posted about a new sink skirt. I think it was the perfect compromise, just enough red! While I was at it I redecorated my site, too. It was in need of change. I was all, if its not broken don’t fix it about that for too long! I bet your new drapes are lovely. I need to get around to visit blogs and Instagram and take a peek. I hope you posted them there!
Hi Kim, I hope all is well with you. I happened to see your new blog look yesterday and I had to tell you that it looks beautiful. I LOVE it and I hope you do too. Take care and have a nice week.
ReplyDeleteJulie, thank you soooo much! I love it too!! I’m so glad you do! It was super sweet of you to reach out! I was ready for a switch. I really had to change my theme. It was so old and I think I made so many changes over the years it wasn’t really functioning properly anymore.
DeleteIsolating got me doing lots of decorating like you saw in my latest post.
ReplyDeleteOne of the first things I bought, the first week of isolations, was a new navy blue rug for our living room.
Oh…a navy blue rug sounds dreamy, Carol! Blue and white has become my latest Pinterest obsession.
DeleteKim, it is very hard for lovers of red to make what is wonderfully cozy for Christmas look crisp and fresh for summer. I fail at it each year, never coming up with solutions that don't require huge outlays of money and time. Especially here where we live now, with so much old 1930 board paneling on ceilings and walls. I have one idea for my living/dining room that may help but I'll be waiting to see what you do that may spark ideas for me. I have a feeling you'll pull off a fresh new look!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the vote of confidence, Dewena, but honestly, I struggle with the same thing every year, too. I try swapping out pillows and drapes, but then I miss that pop. I shared my new sink skirt in my latest post. I like it, it's lighter. I also removed a heavy rug. I have a few more tricks up my sleeve, but I'm still not sure how it will all come together. Sometimes playing with it is half the fun though, right?
DeleteWe had stocked up a bit before, too, Teri. We always seem to have a some kind of accumulation here. I was raised by Depression Era parents, so being prepared is ingrained. However, I don't think my pantry is as organized as yours!! I need to work on that.
ReplyDelete