HOW MY HOUSE IS DECORATED

by JOAN ELMORE

Almost everywhere I look in my house there’s something that reminds me of a person I love, a special place, a fun experience I had, a hobby I enjoy, or some little thing that speaks to my personality.  

I remember as a kid my mom would tape up our artwork all over the house.  I remember the construction paper all over the doors, and cardboard and popsicle stick figures on all the surfaces, because she wanted to display our work and show how proud she was of us.  It meant so much to me then, but once I had kids of my own I realized that I didn’t want to do it exactly the same way.  

I also remember family heirlooms and expensive things being packed away, to keep them safe, but at the same time never really seen or enjoyed.  I did the same thing for a while when I got my own house, and I took it even further.  Candles that couldn’t be lit, hand towels that couldn’t be used, dishes that couldn’t be eaten from, books that couldn’t be read.  I completely understand the reasoning behind it, but thank goodness Brooke helped me see a better way to live with my things.

I love actually living with them, using them and letting them be part of my daily life and routine. And I love decorating in a way that isn’t obvious or themed.  It’s just so personal for me, and looking around I see so many things that remind me of everything I love about my life.  I remember a fun day with my daughters, a trip with my family, my great-grandma, our first home, the state I’m from, my love of cozy/spooky things.  

Decorating with my favorite memories, and it’s made every house I’ve lived in home.