Having loved ones and pets (Alicat, Joy, Shedev) around seems to be a common denominator for many of you, and rightfully so! Maybe this is a little corny, but home being where the heart is seems to ring true. Having a bed that is "complete" and made yours seems to be a theme (Ramya, lyn, Chewy), along with books and special decor, art, or travel souvenirs.
Stacey, I'm glad you finally jumped in. I was waiting for someone to mention their coffee or coffeemaker! I loved your response and got a great feel for your personality and home, especially the bits about your son.
Tex, I'm glad you joined in as well. I think the importance for you of sharing your home and being a good and welcoming host really comes across in the things that you highlight as important.
Mandipa, I love how your practical function focused side came out, as well as your intellectual/emotional side. I can relate for the need for function in my home and wardrobe.
Mo, I hear you on an inadequate setup feeling unwelcoming. Moving back and forth all the time would be hard on me, because after a certain amount of time having a temporary setup that doesn't completely function comfortably, let alone surround you with things that make you happy can make me weary. Despite being a traveler myself, I know I get tired of feeling homeless, or at least too far from home.
Diana, funny enough I know what you and Louise mean. I'm kinda a neat freak myself, but I don't mind a little harmless "Elly and Sasquatch" dirt, but I won't walk on floors that haven't become mine through cleaning.
DJ, I'm glad you mentioned how important food is to you. I can relate to wanting my kitchen stocked as I am acustomed. Not having all my tools or dry goods always dissappoints me because it is usually when I decide I have to make grandma's cookies or homemade carmel.
Dianthus, I enjoyed your comment. I love how decor can change the feel of a house, and I do think it is a reflection of the personality and priorities of the decorators.
Gaylene, I loved your description of collecting art with your husband. I love traveling and art and love to pick up a beautiful memory. I did not know that about duties.
Rachy, I think that your taste in decor and fashion are a good reflection of your love of creativity and play.
Donna, I am glad you mentioned the smell. I too largely use unscented stuff and leave windows open alot, and I often first notice the smells in others homes. That said, I also relate personal grooming smells and body chemistry from loved ones with home to an extent.
Deborah, I enjoyed your description of your home as a safe orderly haven, how the people in your life populate your home with activity, and bringing home memories.
Jules, I guess this is proof at how different people can be, although I can see how your style could definitely be peaceful, if not cozy.
Ingunn, thank you for joining us. It seems like your describing more of an environment to hold parts of you, the people and things you care about, and an environment to live in.
I'm really glad so many people responded. It has certainly got me thinking more about home. I expected lots of comments about family, coffee, and the functionality and decor of the space, but you all brought up small details that really aren't that small, and left out other things.
I love to hear what people value, as well as what people prioritize when they put their houses together.
I think for me, loved ones aren't enough to feel at home. I know at various times I've lived with people who I cared for deeply, but even with my family I often felt "homeless". I'm not OCD, but caring for the house, cleaning and maintaining it and showing respect for your fellow occupants is huge to feeling at home. Having a little space to function and claim is important as well. Good light is important to me because I am such a sun creature. I also need some quiet on occasion. Another big one is an escape route--- I hate feeling boxed in by other buildings, so I've got to be able to get out of town or to some open space or have a clear sight line. Feeling like I rate respect and space for my special things and to function is the huge one, and beyond that not being trapped in a box or cave is important. Memories are important, whether they be made there or brought. Like others, the bed is a big one for me, I love clean, smooth, warm and fluffy. A stocked kitchen with adequate counter space, and a good shower go a long way.
