I know that's it has been quite a while since I've posted... I've missed all of you! When I left you last, my family was temporarily staying at my mom's house until we could move into our rental house in the Greensboro, NC area (a house I had yet to see).
Well, I knew it was not going to be a "fun" move... Is moving ever fun? Unlike most things, moving isn't something that gets easier each time and this
4th move in 3 years really did a number on us. It was the
worst move yet and I didn't think anything would top the 2,600 mile move to NC. I think it's because we were finally settled in a community we liked and in a house we all enjoyed. It's one thing to move from house to house, but moving to different communities/schools is what is the most difficult. I also had an established booth selling my painted furniture and vintage goods that I had to close and liquidate things because of the move. I've had to move my little business so many times now and it always takes a big hit...
I certainly had no intention on taking a "blog break" of any sort... Things happen, life happens, kids need their mom, and for the first time ever, I've found myself struggling creatively the last couple of months. Since the day my husband and I bought our first home back when we were 24, I've always dove into project after project, not looking back, and now I feel like I've temporarily had the wind knocked out of my sails...
I know much of that has to do with the move itself (pretty much an involuntary job change) and the fact that we are in a small rental home until next summer. I'm finding that there is a fine line between wanting to make the rental a "home" vs. how much time, effort, and money is worth it! It's been difficult to pour your heart into working on a home in the past, only to have to keep leaving it behind.
Part of me wishes that we would have just quickly picked a house to purchase when we were house hunting to spare us this next year in a rental that we
really don't like and another move this upcoming summer when the lease is up, but I didn't want to be forced into a really important decision because of timing. Been there, done that! Plus, we are still very much learning the area and would like to see if we even want to build/buy here.
I'm really not intending this post to be a downer, but just opening up about how the last couple of months have been and that I've really needed to step away from the blog and regroup with the family, but I'm happy to be back now.
I currently don't have a location where I'm selling furniture or anything yet... I'm hesitant to set anything up yet, but I'm hoping that I can be in a couple of shows this year. I don't have any pictures of the rental house to share, but I'll have some completed rooms up soon! I'm really happy with how my oldest daughter's room turned out and several other rooms are coming along.
In the meantime, I've been working on some Fall decorating ideas and unique centerpieces that I'll be sharing here next week with some fellow blogger friends...
I can't wait... it's been nice to put some vignettes together again and decorating for Fall is one of my favorites. Who can resist a pretty pumpkin or a crunchy apple?
I want to thank all of you wonderful readers for coming back! I know that there are so many inspiring, creative, and beautiful blogs out there to read and I hope you'll continue to visit...
Kristen
23 comments:
Glad you're back! Looking forward to seeing what you are doing!
I for one certainly miss seeing you and your awesome talent here in blogland. But I am glad that I get to see you often in person! I hope these next few months pass very quickly for you and your family and that you find the home or lot of your dreams! Greensboro is fortunate to have you!
It sounds like it's been tough. I'm sorry to hear but I am happy to see you back and looking forward to all the great fall inspiration!
I enjoyed all the pictures of previous fall designs. I'm sure with your talent your rental will look great. I suppose since you don't own it, it's hard to engage your mind with it. I would hate moving so often too. It's hard on the body and mind. It will be nice to see what you've come up with for this fall.
I have missed your creativity but am so glad that your priorities are in order! I am praying that things settle down for your family and that you all find "your place" in your new home.
I can only imagine how tough it must be, Kristen, to move that many times in as many years. We moved two years ago from one state to another and downsized at the same time. We had been in our old house 21 years so I know how tough that was. I'm sure it is hard to make a rental feel like home, especially when you know you will probably be leaving it in a year, but I'm sure those little familiar touches you add can and will make you and the family feel better. Your previous home pictured was beautiful and you did such a great job on it, but I know you will do the same wherever you live!
Welcome back!!! I don't know how you do it...moving that many times...hats off to you.
Blessings,
Linda
Oh I don't envy you at all. Having made a huge, heart wrenching move (due to hubby's job) 2 years ago, I can't imagine doing it again! I hope you and your family settles quickly and that the home of your dreams makes itself known to you for next summer!
Oh I don't envy you at all. Having made a huge, heart wrenching move (due to hubby's job) 2 years ago, I can't imagine doing it again! I hope you and your family settles quickly and that the home of your dreams makes itself known to you for next summer!
Welcome back! We have moved many times also, (Air Force), and it's never easy, but it's always an adventure. You'll get settled in and find your place. Just be patient.
It is so nice to have you back! We all have our down times, and a need to take a deep breath and relax. I am looking forward to your future posts.
Kristen,
We too have been through several moves, 3 in 3 years! Ours was job related too, I had to sell my dream home and felt life would never be the same. Fortunately, we were able to find another home this past move that I'm *almost* as happy with:) It's definitely taught me many things, mostly that it's not the home you have but the people inside that truly make it a home. But still, it is very hard, both physically and emotionally. Hopefully things will settle down for you and your precious family. It's a great idea to rent in an unfamiliar area so you can take your time and decide which neighborhood is right for you. Wishing you the best of luck in this difficult transition. Glad to see you back, I've missed your posts!
Glad you are back...and glad that things are settling down a bit for you and your family. Looking forward to future posts and fall vignettes!!
Best Wishes!!
Nice to see you back Kristen. I can't even imagine all the moving around you have done, and with kids! The waiting to have a home of your own to let you imagination and creativity run wild is one of the hardest parts. But seeing your pictures from last year, I know you will be so full of energy once the dust really settles. Take care ~
Kristen, I'm so sorry you're going through this. I feel like I'm finally in my "forever house" but I have felt some of what you're going through in the past. I enjoy your blog very much! Hang in there and I will keep you in my prayers.
I think we all lose our "decorating mojo," even in the best of circumstances, so just give yourself some forgiveness and a bit of time. You will get it back! Looking forward to what you will be doing at "Fall Around The House!"
moving is tough and stressful, but the important thing is that home is wherever your family is! can't wait to see the new place and updates!
Gorgeous photos! Thanks for the inspiration :)
So glad to see your post, and to hear how you and your family are doing. moving is one of the most stressful things, so we all understand why you've been focusing on your family. Always love your wonderful Fall Decor!
It's always difficult to be in transition, especially when homes are involved. Glad your back and looking forward to your upcoming posts.
Wish you were still here in Raleigh! Moving stinks, period. I always get "the moving blues" each time we have moved. On the bright side...you are renting! Which means you get the luxury of taking your time to find a neighborhood and new home. Next Summer will be here before you know it and you will be in a home you love! Always enjoy your posts :)
Karen
A Stylish Interior
Hi Kristen:
I'm new to your blog. I had just stumbled upon your post of centerpieces and enjoyed it so much that I wanted to wander about your blog a bit more.
All of that moving certainly takes it's toll. I haven't moved in many a year and sometimes I can't find the energies to pull something fresh and creative together. I was amazed to read that you were having somewhat of a creative block. I think it's safe to say that it's over as your arrangements in your new rental are outstanding. As I looked at them, I was surprised to read that you had just moved in August. It so looks like a cherished home.
Looking forward to seeing all of your future creativity!
- The Tablescaper
Happy to see you back! Sounds like you have had a difficult time of it.
Have you considered you are grieving?
When a person is soooo into feathering her nest it stands to reason you would be in grief after losing your "nest". It's not fair for you to expect yourself to just adjust so quickly. It takes time. If these pictures are an example of you losing your mojo, I'd like to lose my mojo. I don't have any mojo to lose so you haven't lost anything. You are in a period of adjustment. Please accept my electronic hug. Remember, we, who read your blog, are your real neighbors and we will follow you wherever you go. Just give us a call and we'll be there. Love you.
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