[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro Text” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The very title would suggest that I think I actually have the answers. \u00a0However, may I suggest that even the smallest tweaks and adjustments around our homes can have a big impact<\/strong>? \u00a0These are just a few things we have been intentionally doing for awhile now and I can honestly say they are working well for our family.<\/p>\n Not perfect. \u00a0This is a “grace upon grace” and “progress over perfection” situation<\/strong>!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/2-scaled.jpg” alt=”Kid’s game room featuring black and white striped bean bags, old large chalkboard, and reversible ping pong\/pool table” title_text=”2″ admin_label=”IMG 2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro Text” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We live in a busy community and, by our own choices, have various family members involved in a lot of different things. \u00a0Most of all, I am keenly aware that we are just in a busy season of life.<\/strong> \u00a0Our children are not so tiny anymore and they have their own interests, school work, church groups, friends, hobbies, and activities. \u00a0While we have never approached family scheduling with the idea that our lives revolve around our children, we are very much in a season where intentionality is the only reason we can even sit down together to dinner most evenings!<\/p>\n However, while it is a busy season, it is also a deeply rewarding season. \u00a0I also am increasingly aware that seasons don’t last forever.<\/strong> \u00a0That helps me “roll with it” a lot better and even lean into the season…good and bad.<\/p>\n No matter the season of life, however, I think our homes require intentionality. \u00a0Even looking down the road 15 years to an empty nest, I hope that I will still be very intentional about “home”, even though it will look a lot different than the current season.<\/p>\n Let’s chat about a few simple and easy things we’ve been doing around here. \u00a0<\/strong>I think being purposeful often shows up in the seemingly mundane, everyday, small, “insignificant” things that all add up to an intentional home.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/1-scaled.jpg” alt=”entryway with vintage straw hats hung on the wall and a chippy white bench in front of old wooden cubbies styled with pieces of coral” title_text=”1″ admin_label=”IMG 1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”BLOG TITLE” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”1. rest” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I’ll be the first to admit that I am not the best at this but I think it is foundational to an intentional home. \u00a0As our children get older and more and more opportunities become available for anyone and everyone in the family, I take my position as gatekeeper very seriously. \u00a0Rest…not just sleep, but rest…is essential<\/strong> and I think any home functions and thrives when it is well-rested. \u00a0Even in busy seasons, it is important to safeguard times of rest and recharge.<\/p>\n For me, personally, rest right now looks like a lot of “no’s”.<\/strong> \u00a0No to this dinner or that outing. \u00a0No to financial opportunities. \u00a0Sometimes, even no to even things that would be fun to do. \u00a0No…because I’m saying “yes” to making sure everyone in our home has some white space in the calendar each week. \u00a0I’m also saying “yes” to making sure our family all has some white space\u00a0at the same time,\u00a0<\/em>several times each week.<\/strong><\/p>\n Faith is foundational to our family and many things in our schedule are built around that. \u00a0Second to that, I make sure to carve out time that just the 5 of us are together several times a week, whether it is for our evening meals, some Sunday afternoon pool time, or a little day trip on a Saturday, just making sure we are soaking up this season…together.<\/p>\n No matter who still lives in your home, make sure there are intentional times when everyone puts away the electronics…at the same time…it’s life-changing.<\/strong> \u00a0Turn off notifications<\/strong> (seriously, I have\u00a0zero notifications set on my phone and it was truly life-changing. \u00a0I don’t need to know exactly when my best friend puts up a new post…that “ding ding” is damaging), delete an app for the weekend, silence your phone, leave it in your bag when you’re\u00a0out to dinner…make intentional and purposeful decisions about what controls your time and attention. \u00a0This is important for ages 0-100!<\/i><\/p>\n Look carefully at your calendar. \u00a0Even though a nice invitation out for your family for dinner could be fun, will it prevent your family from having white space on the calendar\u00a0<\/em>together? \u00a0Be intentional about\u00a0setting aside time just for your immediate family and also for your spouse. \u00a0Guard your calendar fiercely! \u00a0It is 200% okay to say no.<\/strong><\/i><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Bedroom-1.jpg” alt=”summer bedroom styled with a wooden dresser with old gray sign and coral pieces, a big woven basket at the foot of metal bed frame styled with vintage hat” title_text=”Bedroom 1″ admin_label=”IMG summer bedroom 1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Bedroom-2-scaled.jpg” alt=”cute white dresser styled with fresh flowers in woven vase and a lamp made out of salvaged wood, next to a side chair with cute throw blanket and pillow” title_text=”Bedroom 2″ admin_label=”IMG summer bedroom 1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”1. rest” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If you’re looking for a little help for sleep at night, I highly recommend the Hatch Restore<\/strong><\/span>.<\/a> \u00a0There is also a version for kids.<\/strong><\/span><\/a> \u00a0It works really well at helping set aside wind down time and a gentle wake up time in the mornings. \u00a0The sound machine affects are also wonderful!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”2. cozy atmosphere” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Home should be your favorite place to be. \u00a0Whatever that looks like for you, make purposeful choices with your time and budget<\/strong> to turn your spaces into places that feel peaceful and recharge your soul.<\/p>\n For me, neutral colors are calming. \u00a0At the same time, I like textures and layers that help our home feel like it’s been here a long time.<\/strong> \u00a0Our whole family loves soft, cozy textures and I enjoy creating spaces throughout our home that invite us to get comfortable and rest.<\/p>\n However, it isn’t about a certain color or style or budget. \u00a0It is\u00a0all about<\/em> creating an environment that feels restful<\/strong> and there isn’t a magic formula because no person or family is exactly the same! \u00a0Spend some time asking the people who live in your home, as well as yourself, how your home could better serve them as a place to rest and recharge.<\/p>\n Make it your favorite place to be.<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/3-scaled.jpg” alt=”coastal living room styled with fresh summer greenery, old coastal signs and coral pieces, and vintage throw pillows on a white couch” title_text=”3″ admin_label=”IMG 3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/4-scaled.jpg” alt=”white dresser drawers styled with large mirror with chippy white frame, fresh greenery, coral pieces, and vintage woven suitcases” title_text=”4″ admin_label=”IMG 4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”3. flowers” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I get it. \u00a0Most of us are spending more than ever at the grocery store.<\/strong> \u00a0The flower section at my main grocery store is at the end of my typical route and just the other day, I stopped to get flowers. \u00a0Then I looked at my cart and just kept moving.<\/p>\n Sometimes that is just necessary and it’s okay.<\/p>\n However, I thought about the flowers later and wished I had allowed for that.<\/strong> \u00a0Have you ever fixed a vase of flowers and then set it down by a dirty kitchen sink?<\/p>\n Me either. ????<\/p>\n There’s something about a vase of flowers that motivates me to elevate the rest of my space too…cleaning, tidying, plating our dinner in a pretty way, setting out a family game…it’s a domino effect.<\/p>\n You don’t need to buy expensive flowers<\/strong>. \u00a0Carnations and some free branches from your yard, arranged with love in a pretty vessel, can do wonders for a room. \u00a0I always encourage people to invest in vintage vessels that you really love and can use year-round.<\/p>\n You can find some ideas for arranging inexpensive grocery store flowers on THIS POST.<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Invest in a couple of different vessels that you love for holding flowers. \u00a0At the same time, dig around your own stash. \u00a0Do you have a pitcher that was passed down to you? \u00a0Or a yard sale find that you didn’t know what to do with but you loved? \u00a0Keep a couple of vessels easily accessible to add flowers or free branches. \u00a0You are much more likely to incorporate beautiful elements that are also convenient!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/IMG_1927_jpg.jpg” alt=”beautiful fresh white flowers arranged with fresh greenery in a cute pitcher” title_text=”IMG_1927_jpg” admin_label=”IMG flowers 1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”3. flowers” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/IMG_1932_jpg.jpg” alt=”small bouquets of small white flowers arranged in vintage glass bottles” title_text=”IMG_1932_jpg” url=”https:\/\/urlgeni.us\/amzn\/WovenVase” url_new_window=”on” admin_label=”IMG flowers 2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”4. furniture with function” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This may seem like an obvious one, but I’m going to mention it anyway. \u00a0Invest in furniture pieces that actually work for your family<\/em> rather than pieces your family has to work around.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n I’m just going to give you one example, though I am really passionate about this and have worked really hard to hunt for pieces that meet our needs, even changing those pieces as our needs change.<\/p>\n Sometimes I’m asked why I have such a huge coffee table in our small, back living room.<\/strong> \u00a0It’s a fair question!<\/p>\n My vision for this room was to be a mostly electronic-free room where we could spread out with projects, games, puzzles, and more. \u00a0I knew that would require a coffee table that was unusually large for the room. \u00a0Even one that would break design rules for proper scale in the space.<\/p>\n We found this antique library table on an online auction. \u00a0The zinc top means I don’t have to worry about rings from drinks and scratches from projects. \u00a0We cut down the legs and it is the perfect spot for our family. \u00a0I added\u00a0 large floor cushions <\/a><\/strong><\/span>for a comfy spot for kiddos to sit for family games. \u00a0Then, they just slide back under the table when not in use.<\/strong><\/p>\n At the time of writing this, our Phase Ten game<\/a><\/strong><\/span> from a few days ago is still laid out, everyone’s hand ready for the next round! \u00a0There is plenty of room for that and a pretty decor vignette too, so it always stays looking nice and inviting.<\/p>\n Even though this step takes time, take note of how your family uses different spaces and how you\u00a0want<\/em> them to use the spaces. \u00a0Then, make furniture and decor choices that work around those needs and your vision!<\/p>\n Carefully consider how your family uses each space. \u00a0At the same time, consider how all of you actually want to use the space. \u00a0Do you need to make any changes? \u00a0If so, plan, budget, and invest in working toward those desired changes.<\/p>\n Creating those changes doesn’t always have to cost money. \u00a0Consider if you have furniture, decor, pillows, cushions, or cozy elements that you can rearrange in order to reach the desired goal for the room. \u00a0Often, just thinking outside the box can make a difference!<\/p>\n This summer, we added a swing to our back living room because we knew it would be really great sensory input for one of our kiddos. \u00a0Even though it required rearranging the room, we are all loving the change. \u00a0Plus, we sold two pieces of furniture and ended up making money on the whole situation! \u00a0(Of course, that cash went to pay for the orthodontist, but still! \u00a0It was a great change!)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Phase-ten-game-scaled.jpg” alt=”phase 10 card game cards spread out on a table” title_text=”Phase ten game” url=”https:\/\/urlgeni.us\/amzn\/PhaseTen” url_new_window=”on” admin_label=”IMG phase ten game” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Back-living-room.jpg” alt=”cozy space styled with metal cubbies, a cozy white couch and a vintage table with cushions underneath” title_text=”Back living room” admin_label=”IMG back living room” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”5. Quiet spaces” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We have a lot of fun in our home and to be honest, our home isn’t usually very quiet<\/strong>. \u00a0Between kids practicing a variety of instruments, homework, nerf gun wars, a million questions for Mommy everyday, and the washer and dryer running non-stop, it definitely doesn’t feel like a quiet home!<\/p>\n That’s the season of life and I actually love it…mostly.<\/p>\n However, I’ve discovered that quiet spaces aren’t just for a tired Mom, but are also important for my kids too.<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/5-scaled.jpg” alt=”cozy white couch styled with light throw blanket and vintage coastal pillows” title_text=”5″ admin_label=”IMG 5″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”5. Quiet spaces” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It doesn’t have to be a big space. \u00a0In fact, a small cozy space is actually perfect! \u00a0Create opportunities throughout your home that invite quiet moments.<\/strong><\/p>\n You get the idea! \u00a0Invite spaces for quiet moments and then make sure you just stop and enjoy them. \u00a0Often.<\/p>\n See if you can rearrange a room (one that gets sunlight if possible) where there is a comfy chair, side table, and plant in a corner. Add a basket of books, including ones that appeal to different people in the family, and see if it gets used! \u00a0Set aside time on your own calendar where you use it yourself! \u00a0See if this makes a difference in your day or week!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/6-scaled.jpg” alt=”view of the game room with tv, a wooden tv console styled with old books and an old bingo game, and black and white striped bean bag chairs” title_text=”6″ url=”https:\/\/urlgeni.us\/amzn\/BeanBagChair” url_new_window=”on” admin_label=”IMG 6″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”wrap up” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It’s just a simple list. \u00a0You don’t have to tackle every quiet corner and every cozy room at once. \u00a0Start by making a plan. \u00a0Ask your family questions<\/strong>. \u00a0Reflect on your home and how you use it.<\/p>\n THEN, and only then, start with one little, simple spot at a time.<\/strong> \u00a0Create with joy, purpose, and love. \u00a0Your intentionality will grow as you do and your love of home will grow right along with it!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”storefront” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Over on my storefront, I have several lists designated to helping create warm, inviting, and cozy areas in your home. \u00a0If you find that you need to add a few things to help you out, or just a refresh to feel more intentional, check these out!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/7-scaled.jpg” alt=”view of the living room featuring a white couch, chippy wooden coffee table styled with a glass cloche and greenery planted in a woven basket, and a vintage gray tv console table” title_text=”7″ url=”https:\/\/urlgeni.us\/amzn\/xIv0″ url_new_window=”on” admin_label=”IMG 7″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Follow Me” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I’d love for you to follow me on social media! \u00a0You can find my home decor inspiration on Instagram<\/strong><\/a>, Pinterest<\/a>,\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Facebook<\/a>! \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Closing” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Blessings,<\/strong><\/p>\nHow do you make a calming house?<\/em><\/h3>\n
5 Simple Ways to Create an Intentional Home<\/strong><\/h2>\n
1. An Intentional Home Begins with An Intentional Heart, Mind, and Body<\/em><\/h3>\n
How do I make my house feel like a retreat?<\/h3>\n
Action Tip #1: Electronics<\/i><\/strong><\/h3>\n
Action Tip #2: Calendar<\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n
2. Create an Intentional Home\u00a0with a Cozy Environment<\/i><\/h3>\n
What makes a home look cozy?<\/h3>\n
3. Create an Intentional Home with Purposeful Beauty<\/em><\/h3>\n
How can I make my house cozy on a budget?<\/h3>\n
How can I make my house warm and welcoming?<\/h3>\n
Action Step: Vessels<\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n
Here are a few of my favorite vessels to use for my grocery-store flowers:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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4. Create an Intentional Home with Furniture That Serves Your Family<\/em><\/h3>\n
Action Tip #1: Determine a desired purpose for each room.<\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n
Action Tip #2: Rearrange if needed.<\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n
5. Create an\u00a0Intentional Home with Purposeful Quiet Spaces<\/i><\/h3>\n
How do you make a corner feel cozy?<\/em><\/h3>\n
\n
Action Step: Cozy corner.<\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n
Creating an intentional home is a joy, not a chore.<\/em><\/h3>\n
Enjoy!<\/em><\/h4>\n
Ideas for Cozy Spaces:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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