If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you may have picked up on my journey into becoming a single “Ma”. It has been a rollercoaster ride for which I will always be eternally grateful! Can I tell you just how empowering it truly is to Do It (all) Yourself?! Sure, it can be intimidating at first, but the results are always the most rewarding. I found myself in a situation that allowed me to become the kind of strong mother I always wanted to be. A few years ago, the kids and I moved to our very own home and it is one of the things I’m most proud of doing on my own. That’s why I jumped at the chance to discuss new home essentials with Casper and provide you with my 6 New Home Must Haves!
1. RUG
Rugs are by far an easy and instant way to go from house to home! I like to use them to define a space and to add texture. Being that I have young children it’s nearly time to replace my rug–remind me later that PopRocks, small children, and Shag Rugs never mix! I’m currently obsessing over these geometric patterns and colors.
2. ARTWORK
Now this is where you get to give your home some personality! Artwork doesn’t have to be expensive or even store-bought for that matter. I’m a big fan of using a collection as art–as seen below with my Starfish arrangement (if you aren’t fortunate enough to live by the ocean, you can purchase some here). I simply used a glue gun to attach push pins to the back of each starfish and carefully measured out my pattern. My dad made the 3 fish out of wood scraps and they were originally used as decor for my younger brother’s Hook, Line, and Sinker inspired rehearsal dinner. I love that it reminds me of the party, my dad, and it represents the “3 Musketeers” (as we call ourselves)! The last is my DIY Felt Letter board. It’s one of my favorite pieces I made from an old picture frame and felt. I have so much fun switching out the sayings every week for the kids. Want to make one yourself? Check back for the How-to next week!
3. NEW MATTRESS, SHEETS, & PILLOWS
Did you know that mattress and pillows have an expiration date? Ok, I don’t know if that’s entirely true, but my Mom always said “the best time to get rid of stuff is when you move”! My question is: why move an old uncomfortable mattress when Casper makes mattress shopping this easy?!
4. LIGHTING
Lighting is the only way to add ambiance and warmth. Side lamps, sconces, reading lamps, chandeliers, and floor lamps…oh my! Adding your own lights on top of the standard house basics is a quick way of settling in and making your house come alive. On my wish list is this Arc Floor Lamp with Marble Base
5. TOOL BOX
Now this is a non-negotiable (Sidebar: this is also a fun term I’ve learned in post-divorce dating!)!! You must…I repeat MUST have a tool box! How else are you going to hang your artwork, put together your bed frame, or install your new lighting fixtures?? I won’t ever forget my very first single Mother’s Day when my kids gave me a Little Pink Tool Kit (Pink)
6. LAYERS
Rooms consist of so many layers–they’re truly complex creatures! OK, not really but it is the little things that really bring your home to life. Think curtains, accessories, pillows, etc. Learn more about how to use layers in design in my Budget Friendly Living Room Update post.
There you have it–my 6 New Home Must Haves! No matter what path led you to your new house, always take pride in making it your home. Whether you’re embracing being on your own like me or with a partner–have fun making it yours!
That’s My Daily Dose!
