The blush of the holidays is fading for us all and a less than sunny midwinter has blown into our world here in the north coast of Ohio. Richard and I are holed up in our nest. We spend nights watching the lake freeze and unfreeze and listening to the wind howl outside our sky windows up in the clouds. Moments like these serve as a reminder that to love the space you live in is vital to our wellbeing and happiness.

Speaking of Love…

Why not think outside of the tiny velvet box? What about giving the one you love (and yourself) something that you both can cherish together for a long time? What about gifting something that you can use, admire, and live with? We know, it’s unusual. But why shouldn’t it be? What about a chair, a sofa, or even — dare we say, a love seat!

Live Valentine’s Everyday

There are spots all throughout our home where the spirit of Valentine’s Day far surpasses an individual day of the year. Richard and I lounge in our condo in a very old comfortable sofa that begs snuggling with its plush soft pillows. Our grandkids nestle within the cracks of the cushions for a quick nap all the time when they come for a visit. He has his chair, of course, for watching a movie or sport on the television in a position where he doesn’t have to move a single muscle — and I have my small English loveseat.

Together we have our little ‘snug room,’ doubling as a dining room, card playing area, and reading nook. Because our place is not very big, each room must function for multiple uses. With a quaint space, we feel cozy and familiar with each corner of our home.

We really ‘live’ in this condo…together…everyday…and yet we have enough space to not feel closed in or crowded. Smart space utilization, great depth perception from every vantage point, and perfect placements of our favorite pieces.

Every inch counts. We made certain when we renovated our place, that the 1800 feet would live large. And it does! We putter in the kitchen together cooking meals, doing the dance that seems very familiar and it works so well for us. The ‘snug’ is right next to the kitchen so we can chat if only one is making the meal, either in our seats, at the counter, or at the table. The fireplace is even visible from every seat in the home.

Love the Spaces You’re In Together

It works because we don’t get bored with any of our spaces. We don’t really have a specific dining room or room for living. Each room is interesting and ever changing to our needs. Our furniture styles are all different and yet they all work together and serve us well as we incorporate both old and new pieces.

Your furniture should make you feel, ‘Ahhhhh,’ each time you use it. If it doesn’t, maybe it is time to take a look at something to replace the piece that isn’t living up to snuff. One piece can transform the feeling of a room and create a new space to love and use together.

Might we suggest that instead of a bauble for Valentine’s Day, you go shopping together for something that will improve your everyday life — because you can’t snuggle on a piece of jewelry. You won’t regret it, we promise!