We’ve been in this house for just over four years. I remember that around years four to six in our previous homes is when I finally began to feel truly “at home.”
Not that I didn’t enjoy living there before, but it usually takes me a few years to settle back into a comfortable rhythm after a move. Maybe I’m slow—that’s just how I roll.
Moving disrupts daily habits and routines more than we often realize. While moving can be exciting, after many relocations I’ve learned it usually involves more time and effort than expected. It takes patience and creativity to transform a new house into a home that feels like yours.
If you move into a custom-built house that’s perfect from day one, settling might be easier—I haven’t experienced that myself—but regardless of the house type, it always takes time to make a space feel personal and comfortable.
That brings me to why I wanted to start the new year with a “State of the House” update for 2020.
If you missed my 2019 review, check it out on my site.
In case you didn’t hear earlier, we’re not moving. Barring unexpected changes, our plan is to stay here for a while—possibly for many years.
Knowing our decisions and investments will serve our family for the long term feels both settling and inspiring as we begin a new year.
I’m still a dream-house chaser and sometimes find it hard to fully let go of the idea that a more perfect home might be out there. At the same time, I love the idea of taking our time to make this house a lasting, “perfect” home for our family.
We used to move every four to six years, and leaving projects and personal touches behind was always hard. Staying longer means we can enjoy our work over the years, which truly feels like a dream.
Staying put allows us to make lasting memories in familiar spaces and delight in the simple daily rhythms of life here.
It gives us the chance to create rooms with more intention, to add personality and character over time, and to build on projects we’ve already completed so every corner feels more like home.
We have specific, fun plans for this year, so expect more updates and reveals from both me and my girls.
I’m excited to focus on projects that add charm and character. The little details are what make me happiest, so you’ll see more of those in the months ahead.
I’m also committed to improving function and order—more decluttering, tidying, and organizing. Many areas of the house still look much like they did the day we moved in; we placed things where we could, and they’ve stayed there. It’s time to prioritize organization and let go of what we don’t need.
If organizing your home is on your list this year, I have books and resources that can help.
I can’t wait to tackle new spaces this year. I’ll be addressing function and furnishings in our lower level (stay tuned for an exciting announcement) and finally giving attention to long-awaited bathroom updates.
This spring and summer we’ll be back outside working on our outdoor spaces. This year especially we’ll focus on the front yard to add curb appeal on a budget.
Do you have any plans for your home this year? I’d love to hear about them!
Happy New Year to you all!
If you missed my 2019 review, you can find it on my site.