The heart of my home

I recently told a friend that my apartment is simple, nothing elegant, but clean and nice.  I meant every word of it, but today, as I looked at it again I had other thoughts.

In 2008 I moved all my possessions to another state in a large moving van.  In 2010 I moved back here with only a Honda Sedan.

I had no dishes, no pots and pans, and no household linens of any sort.  All I really brought with me were my bicycle, my dog, my coffee pot, and my clothes, and not even all of them. I also brought a few of my dearest things, a white Armani stallion statue, a white Quan Yin and child statuette, a picture of me and my children the last time we were all together and a small picture of us all playing musical instruments the Christmas before that.

The night I moved into my first local apartment I brought these things with me along with a blow up bed and my twelve inch television.

Today, three apartments later, I look around at the home that has grown up around me and I realize it actually is a little bit elegant. I've collected a few pieces of furniture that blend beautifully with each other and my style of living.  I have a few skillets and pieces of cookware that I deem essential, some nice silverware and a set of china that is absolutely me. The three pieces that hang on my wall are exactly what I love to look at, as is every other thing surrounding me.

My world is compact and utilitarian in a lovely cozy way that speaks about who I am.

I don't think you could call it any particular style, but it feels luxurious in a minimalist sort of way.

It is home in every way that is important to me.  I have room for guests, family dinners and no extra space to clean, heat, or cool.