We upgraded when we purchased a bi-level home on one acre backing onto a small man made lake. It was home for five years. My style remained a mix of country and Victorian. It was here that I discovered the thrill of walking into antique and second hand stores and fell in love with the hunt - for that special piece of china or crystal and for those antiques that I could afford.
Then, with a change in jobs for Brian where he would be traveling, we decided to move into the city. We purchased a cute little semi-bungalow on a beautiful lot backed by green space. Since Brian was gone during the week, I felt like I was a single girl again and decorated our home in Victorian style - lots of flowers everywhere. On the wallpaper, on the walls, on the pillows, with rose pink kitchen walls and anaglypta wallpaper on the bathroom ceiling. It was cozy and warm.
With another change in jobs for Brian, we made the move from our home in Canada to Wisconsin. We were very excited and looked forward to the change. We packed up (or rather the movers packed - I had just had back surgery) and drove the almost 2000 miles to our new home. After a week long search and countless houses, we finally found our home. You know the feeling - you just know. This house was a two-story and was very comfortable with lots of light in the south facing kitchen. We added on a large sunroom which is where I spent most of my time - summer and winter. My style changed somewhat during this time. Gone were the country cows and floral wallpaper. Instead, this home was more traditional in feel although I still had a floral sofa, loveseat and chair that were still in excellent condition.
With another change in jobs we moved from our home in Middleton to Waterloo. We bought a 50s ranch style home. I was able to buy new furniture and opted for traditional furniture in spicy browns and greens. Again I painted the kitchen cupboards and turned the rooms into rooms we were comfortable in. After a few years we were able to fulfill a dream we had had for years. We bought a farm.
So here we are now on our 17 acre farm with room for our alpacas, goats, chickens, ducks, geese, rabbits, dogs and parrots. My husband and I live in a two story farmhouse that has sagging floors and a stone basement. But it's warm, solid and safe. I'm slowly going through the house and making it my own. My style has evolved and I find myself drawn to French Country. Mostly done in white of varying shades, I'm still drawn to warmer earth tones with white as an accent.
No matter what style you prefer - there's no place like home.
