Around the house

Did I tell you that moving is stressful, exciting and also $$$? Once you complete the actual move, the unpacking and settling in, you then realize all the things that are missing. And then you struggle with the desire to fix it all ASAP but then also purchase only things you LOVE and will not tire of over decades.

Khaner may or may not have sat down with me about the number of purchases going on daily. In my heart of hearts, I do feel that he will look back on these times and realize that our home is our sanctuary. It is a place of comfort, love, rest, laughter, peace and relaxation. It is filled with your loved ones, your precious moments and it serves as the foundation of each milestone and chapter in your life. It should represent who you are, your family, your traditions, and the people and things you cherish most in this world. At least that's been my sales pitch when the pillows, lamps, books and furniture have been arriving.

The ladies lounge, complete with Carter and his rope toy.

I decided against the aztec pillow - it wasn't full enough and was too high for the cushions on this sofa. The verdict is still out on this elephant throw, but I have to try to put more color into my house. How gorgeous did the greek key pillows turn out from Etsy? I am tempted to ask the merchant if she makes drapes.

And in spite of all the purchasing I've been doing, my sweet husband treated me to an early birthday present. My plan is to find a glass maker who can install a second glass shelf on the bottom. You wouldn't believe the price difference in the market for a two shelf coffee table.

Still working on styling the coffee table, but can't go wrong with a Ginger. I know in Chinese the symbols stand for double happiness, and they truly make me feel so happy looking at them. Even though my husband hates them, I know he appreciates the joy I have in collecting them over the years.

Picked up this gorgeous book by Anna Spiro while on a business trip a few weeks ago. She has teamed up with Anthropologie in a book deal and did some signings throughout the States this month. I love her book, advice and style. She has helped me tremendously in just the few short weeks we've been in the new house. And a new friend we've met brought me a beautiful Ella B. candle!

The ladies lounge had a couple of intruders this morning, but I guess I will keep them.

Anna's book talked about how you really need larger lamps for a bedside table. It gives height to your bed, provides more symmetry, and most importantly, better light for reading. I am not sold on the shades and normally swap them out for less trendy ones. We'll see.

Not pictured is the enormous gash my not-so adorable dog created in my Pine Cone Hill coverlet. More to come on the new one.