Life By Kristen

My Happy Place

In my opinion, one of the biggest aspects of being happy everyday has a lot to do with the spaces one occupies, so for me that would be my office, my car (ah the life of commuting), and my house. When I was married, the house was a site of struggle and frustration, not just because that’s where disagreements took place, but because the physical space did not reflect much of who I was or wanted to be, but more what I thought my then-husband would like or some reflection of who I thought I should be as a married gal.

My house is a constant source of both pride and frustration– as I am sure is the case with so many homeowners. There are days I look around and all I see are the things to do- which was the case almost every single day while I was in the house & married. When the house became all mine, it took me a long time to get it how I wanted. Hours spent over Pinterest, decorating blogs, and so many house related magazines had me imagining the spaces I wanted for myself, and slowly, they took shape. With the exception of the office/reading room/painting space, the house is as I imagined– and even with that space it’s a matter of getting things on the walls and rearranging some furniture.

Each room of the house brings a different kind of satisfaction to me- knowing I found the style of couch I wanted, having the duvet I lusted after and serene setting of the bedroom, and a kitchen with bright colors. But the place in my house which brings endless joy is my sunroom.

Of course this would be all the better photo if it had been sunny out. Also please excuse the mats and towels on the floor- the windows leak when the rain blows against them!

The sunroom was one of the selling points of the house to me ( as well as the built in bookshelves, fireplace, cute yard, and historic details). The windows are on three sides and open into the room, and while the view is less than desirable ( commercial building next door), the breezes in the summer are unbeatable. Even on the most humid day, the room is relaxing and restorative. The couch is a hand-me-down from my parents, but is comfortable and perfect for quiet mornings in the sun with a cup of coffee or a Friday night with a book and glass of wine. It is unheated, but when those beautiful sunny winter days happen, the space is often warmer than the house– perfect for afternoon naps that make me forget it is February.

This space isn’t just perfect because of its light and coolness, but it’s the place where I unwind and feel at peace with myself. I spent hours in there journaling and meditating during the roughest days of my marriage and separation and it’s the place where I found the courage to stand up for myself and my life. Regardless of where I live after this house, this sunroom will always be remembered as a big part of who I am.