While we can all agree that gifts of jewelry and expensive handbags are always coveted and appreciated, sometimes it’s the little things that cause our hearts to swell as we become teary-eyed and farklempt...And it is the little things that make our houses cherished homes.
That was just the way I felt on Sunday when Irwin surprised me with breakfast on the patio. Irwin, our resident Frittata Master, chose to treat me to an asparagus and goat cheese omelet. While the omelet was delicious, it did not bring a tear to my eye, despite the red pepper flakes. What really touched me was the coffee station he set up in our prep/storage room, complete with farm fresh milk. It made a simple breakfast at home seem like a private dining experience in a lovely bed & breakfast; just a little touch that meant the world to me.
Irwin is constantly tweaking our home. Editing and rearranging have become a way of life for our family and we all enjoy the inherent surprises that are revealed to us almost daily. It is absolutely true, that on any given day, we might arrive home to find our den and dining room flipped, or the master bathroom re-accessorized.
In light of this, it should come as no surprise that, while I was out of the house driving our oldest to the train station Sunday afternoon, Irwin was busy rearranging a corner of our bedroom so that I could have a dreamy reading niche. Yes, yes, I know I have expounded on the many seating and eating areas in the house, but NONE of them are in our bedroom. When I cannot sleep and want to read, I cannot do it in bed because Irwin is extremely light sensitive. I have desperately attempted to circumvent this issue by implementing the use of reading lights…and even flashlights, but it was to no avail. If I wanted to read while Irwin was sleeping, I had to go downstairs.
But now those worries are a thing of the past, because Irwin generously presented me with this sweet niche he created by re-purposing pieces from other parts of our house including the stunning Hydrangea (the only bloom we had this year) that was on our breakfast table.
The focal point of the area is a vintage chaise that I adore. Although it is delicate, it is extremely comfortable and I love laying on it. I have my own reading light, far away from our bed that will afford me hours of uninterrupted reading while offering Irwin hours of uninterrupted sleep. Beautiful artwork,a fantastic screen, candles, a throw and fresh flowers complete the niche. The only thing missing is a decadent box of chocolates...and me!
Like “Dining Out…at Home”, the little things that we do to our living environment can make us feel like we are spending time in a lovely inn or hotel and who doesn't enjoy that?
I look forward to returning to the country later this week and relaxing with my book and a glass of wine in my reading niche, enjoying the little things that make everyday life so special. But first, I’d better check with Charlie. I have no idea what he's reading.
**Thank you Irwin for always reminding me to pay attention to the details and nuances in life!
Marcy - As life passes on a little further, these gestures of caring and nurturing are the ones which make my heart flutter the most. Thank you for sharing your experience. I think Irwin sounds like a lovely person, with whom to spend the rest of your days! Hugs to you both! Wanda
What a nice surprise to come home to. Special!
Thank you Wanda! Irwin really appreciated those kind words- And Karen- it was such a nice surprise to come home too- too bad I've not had any time to use it...yet. Looking forward to the end of the week...maybe...fingers crossed!
