Edition 09 | August 2026

Every item featured was found on FB Marketplace. By now my Marketplace algorithm has learned what I like (by clicking on things, saving items, and “liking” them in app) so all of these were found on my “for you” or “local” tab. My radius is quite vast, so don’t be fooled into thinking that these are all within a mile or two of where I live.

The Mood Board

Something that is often forgotten is that a mood board shouldn’t necessarily be filled with the exact things that you want to find, but rather with any inspiration that gives off the feeling (dare I say, the mood?) that you want that space to have.

From there you can pull textures, colors, themes, etc that you see throughout the mood board and slowly start to piece together the vision that you’re trying to bring to life (instead of just copycatting what your board is filled it). That way you’re creating a whole new space, one that is unique to you and how to you fill it.

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The Finds

Playing off the mood board we developed a color palette, worked in varying organic textures and materials, and sprinkled in the calming neutral patterning that was seen throughout the mood board. We didn’t follow it to a T, but was instead inspired by the feeling it gave off and recreated the mood with completely different items.

For example, in the mood board there was a wrought iron chair, that didn’t mean I needed to find that chair exactly, but instead noted down that wrought iron (the material, not the chair) was calling out to me. I then found an iron bed frame, not the same item, but married in that feeling and material. And so on for other items within the mood board and the finds.

The Mockup

I love how all the mixed textures ended up playing with each other. If you’re looking for a similar feeling for your space I would try using some of the following descriptive words in your search (marry them with whatever item you’re looking for, ie bed frame, chair, side table, etc): linen, rattan, woven, pine, real wood, upholstered, French country, Turkish (for the rug specifically), seagrass, rope, and/or wicker.

If you’d like to have your city/zip code featured in an upcoming MM leave a comment below with the information you’re comfortable leaving (ie a neighboring city or town if you’re uncomfortable leaving the exact one you live in, etc) and I’ll keep a running list to try to switch up the locations I search in for these mockups!

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Catch up on the last MM:

& other news:

• Latest on The Home Update

• Sourcing inspiration here

• Last months Monthly Musings

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project how-to’s.

I’ve done a couple of projects on my place since moving in, some more hefty than others, but also a few very simple ones. I’ve compiled a list of some favorite and most impactful DIY’s below:

1. The bathroom sink curtain: the full how-to is shared in my YouTube video here. It’s a bit of a heavier lift of a project, but still super simple and no-sew.

2. Bookshelf curtains: a simple yet impactful one! I simply got a tension rod and longer cafe curtains to create a hidden storage area on my shelves where things can be a bit messier. Items used from this project can be found here.

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Sonoma is such a fun place for a good adventure day. There are so many great shops, restaurants, and of course wineries. I spent a long afternoon exploring and left wishing I had more time. Luckily I live just 30 minutes away so I will be back. For now though I’m sharing some of the spots I enjoyed visiting while on my adventure day.

Start your day: hit the thrift and antique shops first, they close around 4pm, so you’ll want to make sure you visit those first (and while you still have energy). Sharing a list with descriptions below, but don’t fret about jotting them down. I’ve made a PDF and google maps list for you which is linked for download at the end of this post!

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1 there is art, the art is interesting.

The most interesting art is art that has been collected or created over many years, somehow it not only all works together, but it makes each piece even more interesting. This is art that tells a story. It might tell a personal story, evoke an emotion, or simply be a beautiful collection of brush strokes. Not everyone will come away with the same understanding or emotion inflicted by the art, it might not be your taste or your favorite style of art, but it works with the home and is meaningful to the dweller of that space.

2 the space is not rushed.

This holds two meanings. The first being that you do not feel rushed to get out of the space. For example, there are chairs for you to rest in, there are books or magazines laid out for you to peruse, you feel like you’re allowed to unwind a bit. The second meaning of “not rushed,” being that the home and decor itself was not put together in a rushed manner.

There are beautiful spaces that come together very quickly, it can most definitely be done, but I find that the spaces that feel the most welcoming are spaces that have taken people time and thought to put together. They didn’t go into just one big box store, buy everything they need, and call it a day. They’ve collected things through the years from favorite boutiques, travels, family hand-me-downs, and maybe a few garage sales that overtime have defined their style and also created a unique space that is a reflection of who they are. The space will help you get to know this person even more and if you already know this person really well, you will feel instantly welcomed in their space as if it is an extension of themself.

3 a comfortable place to rest.

Whether it’s around a dining table, on a patio outside, in a living room, a reading nook, or gathering around for a movie, a pleasant place to rest and gather comfortably is key to creating a place where people feel at ease.

4 let there be light.

When you’re at a restaurant and you get stuck in the noisy dark corner (an experience I recently had with a friend) finishing your meal almost feels like a chore, it can become rushed and unfocused, when you should be relaxed and enjoying the food you’re paying good money for. Versus when you get sat next to the window somehow the food tastes better, the conversations are richer, and the tip is probably going to be higher too.

But let’s go back to the dark corner for a moment and remove the overhead lighting, add calming sconces, and maybe put a few tea light candles on the table. Suddenly the mood and the ambiance is improved. You might still prefer the window spot, but this feels better than before. This philosophy extends to the home as well. Warm lightbulbs, table and floor lamps, sconces, candles, and even the occasional chandelier can really change the whole feeling of a space.

5 signs of life.

Whether it’s an herb box on the kitchen counter, a potted geranium on a windowsill, or a vase filled with a beautiful bouquet (either extravagant or simple stems from the garden) homes that feel like you never want to leave them all show signs of life beyond the human form. There’s something grounding about having live plants or cut flowers in the home, it almost reminds us that the world is bigger than what we see right in front of our eyes and that there is so much beauty in the simple things that we often take for granted.

6 grounding materials.

Beyond the fact that they typically look better, 100% cotton, linen, silk, and other natural materials, can bring an energetic calm to your space. Most of us have heard that wearing these materials are better for your body, and living with them in your space is also extremely beneficial. Nowadays it’s a bit harder to find upholstered furniture without synthetic materials, however you can still add them in if you can’t remove them. A cotton vintage quilt thrown over a potentially polyester chair can instantly change the feeling that it holds. Handmade linen throw pillows filled with natural materials can make a couch feel much more luxurious and cozy at the same time. A natural wood coffee table instead of something made from laminate or vinyl faux wood can immediately make the space feel more like a home.

7 limit the home tech.

This one might ruffle some feathers and you’re welcome to disagree, but it’s what I find to be true for me and the spaces that I feel most relaxed in. Tech in the home used to be limited to a computer room. A room where the computer lived that you had to intentionally walk into and boot up to engage with it. Now, it’s at our fingertips and follows us all around the house. Beyond that, it’s integrated into security systems, home theaters, surround sound, and smart robots. Is it cool? Sure, it can be. But digital clutter is a very real thing.

I’m not talking about physical clutter (although that’s huge too, tech items are getting smaller and sleeker every day, but they don’t always fit in with every style of home and can end up looking really out of place). The digital clutter I’m talking about, without getting too “woo-woo aluminum hat on to block out the wifi,” is the constant online connection that prevents us from that feeling of “logging off.”

You’re not going to take the time to power down Alexa, your Ring doorbell, your WiFi, your phone, your laptop, your iPad, your smart tv, your wearable tech, and your Bluetooth speaker every night before bed (and then turn them all on again the next morning). When you buy these things you’re, for the most part, choosing to have them all going all the time. While they can be helpful and cool, too much of a good thing can sometimes turn on us.

The spaces I feel most relaxed in, intentionally or not, do not have the “device buzz” going 24/7. While they’re part of our lives and how our society runs, I do think we still have agency in just how much we let it in. It’s not to say get rid of it all entirely, but maybe you don’t need every new tech release. Be mindful, question if the thing actually fits into the life and home you want to create for yourself. Every item we purchase becomes a new responsibility. Ask yourself if the positives outweigh the digital clutter, physically and mentally.

Here are some ideas on how to get started with a digital declutter:

• Instead of having your TV on display all the time, find a TV cabinet that you have to open and close to mindfully choose when to watch your shows. You can also cover it with artwork or a tapestry. Your screen too big for these ideas? Maybe consider downsizing.

• Bricking! I’ve never done it, but I’ve heard rave reviews about how it can help reduce the phone addiction.

• Create a dedicated spot for your computer and your computer time. Not everyone is lucky enough to have a whole home office, but see if you can at least add a desk to your space.

• I’m so guilty of enjoying a scroll while watching a show, but I do find that when I only use one screen at a time (dedicated scroll time or dedicated tv time) I enjoy it so much more. Try it for a week and see if you remember what you’re consuming more than when you’re doubling up, your nervous system will thank you.

• Charge your phone outside of your bedroom, or if you use it as an alarm clock then at least not right next to your bed. Find the outlet furthest from your body and create a dedicated spot for your phone.

• Physically hide cords and put away items you’re not using into a box, bin, or drawer that’s specifically for your tech items.

• Responsibly E-waste or resell items you’re no longer using.

That was potentially a hard pill to swallow, how did this one resonate? Do you feel defensive, inspired, unfazed, personally attacked, superior…?

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8 beauty for beauty’s sake.

Collections, pattern, color, textures… No habit stacking, no multi function, no duo purpose, they don’t even have to hold a personal meaning necessarily… just beautiful things in your space for beauty’s sake. If it’s your home, it should be things that YOU find beautiful, not things that you think others will find beautiful nor things that need to make sense to anyone else. These are beautiful things that bring you awe. Not overdone, not stuff for stuff’s sake, but a balance and chosen display of things that you love to see every day.

9 details matter.

Functionally beautiful kitchen hardware and appliances, privacy curtains, favorite magnets and cards on a fridge, perfume on a pretty display tray, a thoughtful side table next to a living room chair, accessible coasters, enough hooks in the bathroom, towels for function not just decor, etc.. These details create a sense of ease, interest, and pleasure in a space. And for visitors in your space some of these can create a feeling of belonging and forgo that burdening feeling that often happens when we’re not in our own homes.

10 nothing is completely perfect.

Patina on knobs, a chip or crack on a mug, wear and tear on the rug… there are signs of life being lived and a sense ones’ space being unique to their life because of it. You can actually sit on the sofa, you can leave a dish in the sink, it’s ok that you bumped the table, nothing is perfect and therefore you don’t have to be either. Yeah, maybe we should still use coasters, maybe we should still put newspaper down before painting, and yes clean up after yourself after using xy or z. But having a space that allows for the occasion “oops” by either purchasing pre loved items that already have imperfections or by keeping your items for so long that the patina has evolved naturally, that’s part of the charm. We’re quick to replace or buy new, but that’s not always the best or most welcoming option.

I feel it’s important to call out that I do not have all of these nailed down myself, far from it. I share these as tools that hopefully inspire or can help guide you if you’re feeling lost in the process. Reading this through might feel overwhelming and as if it all has to be done at once, but that’s the opposite of my intention. My hope is that more and more people come to understand that homes and beloved spaces are created over time, not in a weekend. These 10 ideas of “what makes you never want to leave a home” are there for when you need them; written out not as a checklist, not as a to do list either, but a dissection of what makes these beloved spaces beloved and how we can implement some of that goodness into our own space.

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And if you do want a tangible list of ideas you can implement today, you can check out this article below:

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What’s on the menu?

Found Offline — inspiration found offline, sans internet. Sharing them with you as I think you might enjoy them too. A mini Home Update — a recap of recently completed projects and thoughts towards the next ones! And Musings as of Late — an assortment of books, music, food, etc that have been mini joys (or all consuming) that you might relate to as well (would love to know your Musings in the comments if you feel called to share); delivered to you in a “speed round” format. Enjoy!

I’ve been trying to look offline more and more for inspiration and education. Sometimes it’s lovely to dive deep down a rabbit hole on Substack or Pinterest, however sometimes I find that the classics (magazines, a coffee table book, objects around you, a walk in the park) will truly hold the biggest spark of inspiration, thought, memory, or joy.

The Creative Act: Books in general are usually inspiring in one way or another, but The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin specifically has been a real treat to dig into. I’ve seen this book across coffee tables and bookshelves for a while now, but had never really been tickled to ask what it was about until just last week. I was visiting some friends in Park City and it was on their bookshelf, I asked what it was about and what the vibe of the read was. After getting the low down I opened it up and started to read a few pages, instantly I knew it was a book I’d like to spend more time with.

I went to the local bookshop the next day and unfortunately they did not have it there. I walked into a clothing shop down the street just expecting a browse and funnily enough they had 4 copies stocked between their white tees and Levis. Kismet! I grabbed a copy (and a pair of shorts that happened to fit perfectly, had been looking for some for a month now… kismet!) and was in awe of my luck. I’m now a couple chapters in and while it’s a quick read, I’ve enjoyed taking my time with it and really digesting what Rubin is writing about. If you’re in need of an inspiring book about art and creativity that’s not telling you how to be creative necessarily, and more so sharing ideas about a creative way of life in a very non-egoistic manner, I really suggest picking up a copy at your local bookshop (you can usually have them order it for you if they don’t have it stocked).

Digital Cameras: Using our iPhones is so easy and at our fingertips when it comes to snapping a quick pic, but there’s something irreplaceable about using a digital (or film) camera when it comes to photography. Not only do the photos have a very different feeling to them, but I think we become more intentional about what we capture too, even if we have ~unlimited storage on them, there’s still something that makes holding a camera adjust the mentality around taking a photo.

I have a few of my own digital cameras, but recently acquired my mom’s old Cannon S100 which has been really fun to shoot with. It’s so small (easy to tuck into a purse) and it creates a memory-like essence to the photos (I feel like I’m back in high school, but with less selfies lol). I’ve seen loads of older cameras on marketplace lately, if you can grab one to just have some fun with I recommend it (or dig up your old one if you still have it sitting in a box somewhere).

Every week I say “so much has been done, and yet there is still so much to do,” and this week is no different. I’ve made some progress with things like finding and adding art to various walls, curtains have been hung in the kitchen (but still have to be hung in the bedroom, living room, and on the bookcases), seating has been added to the dining nook (but still has to be added to the living room), an entryway coat hook has been acquired (but it might end up being put to use in the kitchen for grocery bags and aprons), sconces have been pulled out from the attic storage to be used in the bedroom (I think, I’m sort of on the fence about it but I think I should just commit), and lots of growth has been taking place in the garden (alongside the deer eating my roses, more on this in the next section).

Part of me is trying to give myself grace and go slow with the process and the other part of me is telling myself to make decisions and just go for it! It’s a fine line balancing act when working on a project you feel passionately about, and double down on this when it is also part of your job and where you live.

The garden growth has been absolutely magnificent since last month. I’ve been grateful to have lettuce from my veggie beds, fresh basil from seed that’s turned into a full on basil bush (pinch above the nodes if you want to encourage bushier vs taller growth), two tomato starts that are starting to turn out fruit, bean vines that are absolutely thriving and actually need more crawl space, strawberry plants that have treated me to a few small yet mighty treats, and other flowering bushes that have brought so much joy to be around.

All is well and good, but I’d be lying if I said there haven’t been any challenges. I’m still very much a newbie to the gardening world and am learning as I go. Here are some of the things I’ve learned over the last month:

• I recently added a second veggie barrel to the other side of my garden. On this side of the garden it gets later afternoon sun, but less of it, so while it gets direct hot light it’s not in that condition for too long. This barrel was added not only for structural reasons (it created a more balanced feel in the space), but also to provide another spot for plants to expand deeper root systems. I had originally created a really beautiful trellis for peas to grow there, but soon after learned that birds were just going to eat those pea shoots right on up every time I tried to grow them there. So that plan got 180’d and I basically dug up everything I spent hours on. I transplanted my second set of bean starts (which were growing in a felt veg bag) which were doing well, but were significantly smaller than the other set of starts (which had deeply rooted in the first veg barrel). After transplanting those in, I also moved the very established lettuce from the raised bed (the sun was too direct for too much of the day there for them) into the second barrel to mirror the first veg barrel entirely since it seemed to like that environment more. Transplanting the lettuce was a risk since they were so rooted already, but thankfully I can report that the beans and lettuce are both doing really well! One barrel is clearly doing much better than the other, but I’m glad I did this test so I now know where to plant these for seasons to come. In summary, test the same plant in different parts of your garden and see what does better where. This way you’ll know for next year where to plant them from the start and/or can always transplant if needed before then.

• When I went out of town for a few days I tried out the Olla system (basically a closed terracotta pot with a lid that you dig into the ground and fill with water, it then slowly releases out of the pot over time through the micro holes in the terracotta). I got mine at a local hardware store for $6 each, but these look like an option if they’re not available at a store neat you. I was so happy when I got home to see that my lettuce was still perky and didn’t get wilty over the hot days I was gone. I did notice though that some of the leaves on my beans started to yellow (a sign of too much water). Overall the plant it still doing ok, so I think it is a good solution for when I’m leaving town, however it might not be a longterm solution since these plants share a pot.

• The day finally came where the deer ate my beloved roses. I came home from my trip to a very bare and very sad looking rose bush. This was a bush that was barely holding on when I moved here and over the months of being here it thrived into a bushy rose producing beauty, only to be devoured by the deer a few months in (I think they sensed I wasn’t around and decided it was safe to make their move). I love the deer, and I don’t want them to go away, but I’m still so heartbroken over this. I ended up moving my rose bushes (they are in pots, huge pots so it was a challenge, but much easier than if they had been in ground) to behind a gated area where the deer don’t frolic. I gave them a good healthy prune (of what was left to prune lol) and am hoping they’re going to come back even better with a little bit of time and care.

You know when you listen to a podcast and they have a speed round of answers to questions at the end? This is going to be like that, except actually speedy.

Eating: Curry has been a go to lately. So delicious, nutritious, and easy to make/meal prep. I just type into Pinterest “vegetarian curry” and loosely follow a recipe tweaking things where I want to.

Listening to: Bebe Stockwell, specifically “TV Mama”

Eyeing: Bookshelf curtains like these (image on the left by at Federal and Black) and cafe curtains like the below (I took this photo while walking out the door at Matilda in Park City).

Reading: The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin and The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson

Watching: Little House on the Prairie

Trying: To sleep with my phone outside my bedroom. Also trying to speak on camera for video content more… this feels so out of my norm, but people I really admire in the industry I’m in make it a normal part of their content so I’m trying it out! Hoping it becomes more natural for me, but we’ll see.

Would love to hear if you connect with any of these (or enjoyed any of the ideas, recommendations, links, etc) and if you feel called to, please share any of your own musings in a comment:

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That concludes this months musings. I hope to see you at the next one, or earlier if you read other articles from The Nest. Please do feel encouraged to leave a comment with any questions or ideas that were sparked with this read. And if you write a similar article feel free to leave it in the comments, would love to read yours.

Thanks for the fun, and…

As a disclaimer, this post included an affiliate link. If you choose to purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no cost to you. It’s simply the brands way of thanking me for recommending them. I do not share links to items I don’t truly love. Please purchase mindfully and responsibly! When possible please check locally or second hand first.

These are not necessarily new ideas, but more so “I’ve been meaning to do that” or “I forgot about that”… or maybe these will be new ideas to you! Either way, seeing them written out can give these ideas space for tangible action to make them realized in your own space.

Repurposing old windows and doors

Older windowpanes are a treasure to many, and people who appreciate the details of real glass panes with the older wood mullions are my kinda people. Unfortunately not all of us get to live in older houses with this type of charm, so bringing them into our space in one way or another is a great way to add back those details if your apartment is lacking them.

• If your window frame no longer has glass you can add in mirrors to give it a second life and second use around your home while also adding in a little extra character. Sure, this will likely not be your main mirror, but in a hallway or above a credenza in the living room could be a nice way to add extra charm.

• Alternatively, you could also turn a glassless window frame into a rack for hanging things. Grab a few S Hooks from the hardware store and you’ve got yourself a very functional rack! You could hang tin pots for flowers like in the photo above (thrift shops or antique shops usually have tins like these), bags or coats in the hallway, pots and pans in the kitchen, or garden tools if brought outside. Tip: if you want even more space for additional s hooks and hanging things add some chickenwire to the back.

• The ever cherished method of using old windows in the garden to either create a greenhouse if you have enough of them, or to use on a raised veg bed to add in some extra heat or protection to your plants works well too! Note: be mindful of how you position the glass and what’s around it, you don’t want to start a garden fire via too much direct sun exposure.

• Adding old doors, closet bi-folds, windows, or anything alike to an otherwise blank wall can easily add in some interest to a space; especially if you can’t paint it!

• Maybe swapping out your windows isn’t an option, but if you have a blank doorway or are able to swap out your doors (especially your doors inside) bring in an older door to add some charm!

Tip: if you’re going to play around with some of these ideas check a salvage yard or the “free” list on marketplace/craigslist. A lot of the time people need to get rid of these things in a hurry if they’re remodeling so they list it for free.

Small windows? Tiny curtains.

If you’re not savvy with a sewing machine, but need some (smaller) curtains in a pinch, unused placemats, napkins, and pillowcases can easily be tacked up in a very charming way to cover busy cupboards and small windows.

If you are savvy with a sewing machine, think outside the box before going to a fabric shop! Do you have an old linen top that you’re no longer using? A bit of trimming and a simple stitch or two can turn it into a “privacy screen” quite easily!

My aunt recently sent me a few photos (above) of a little window she covered up in her closet to protect her clothing from getting sun bleached. She used a simple piece of fabric and a few buttons to create the sweetest little curtain! If you’re new to sewing, or don’t want to take on a bigger project, using spare buttons can be a great way to create a loop for a curtain rod or extension bar.

Non-traditional ways of displaying traditional artwork

The typical way to display paintings would be to hang them up on your wall, but after moseying around some antique shops I was reminded of a few other fun ways to showcase your beloved works of art.

Layering a shelf or bookcase with favorite items, vases, artwork and of course books can really add some interest to a room. If you have a wall behind (or a back to your bookcase) a really great way to add some extra color or texture is to lean your framed photos or canvases up on the wall behind your displayed items or books. Play around with it, the whole image does not have to be on display. Add some trinkets or smaller items in front of it to create a more dynamic scene like shown above.

If you have a piece of art, but no spare wall space for it, or you want it to sit freestanding, try using an easel or a frame stand. Bonus points if you use an old painters easel with some character, but you can also buy them new and keep them fresh with their natural raw wood or paint them to the color of your choosing.

If none of these resonate with your exact space, but you like the vibe and overall method here, I recommend taking a visit to your favorite shops and picking apart ideas from the displays that resonate and maybe solve a need for your space. Window shopping for inspiration is one of my favorite ways to incorporate new creative ideas into my home, I hope you feel creatively fueled by it too!

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From below the cliff it looked like it was just a big hill, I was unsure what was beyond it, or if anything even was. I knew the ocean was in that general direction but honestly didn’t know how far away. As I crept over the top I couldn’t help but feel rewarded for my curiosity.

Often times when I take trails like this I let my gut guide me. When I get to a fork in the road I usually just let my instincts tell me left or right and try not to question it. “My gut knows how to keep me safe (and which route is going to be more fun)” is the thought that runs through my head as I approach the decision. It’s so natural to do this on a hike, so why not in life too? Why can taking the road less traveled in life feel so much harder, even if your gut is shouting at you to take it?

When you take the more narrow path, things can definitely get you — poison oak, poison ivy, animals, falling off the edge) — so you have to keep your wits about you. You have to stay smart and sharp and proceed with caution, but also with curiosity and excitement. Not everyone is going to take the narrow path. It’s narrow for a reason and there are risks and it might take longer. It might also lead nowhere and be a “waste of time” (although is anything ever actually a waste of time?), but usually the some that do take the risk end up enjoying the view, or at least the journey up the hill.

There will be parts you will have to power through and other parts you need to take slow and steady, but there will also be portions that feel euphoric and that serve as a reminder of why you’re on this planet.

For folks who are going to get concerned about hiking on unmarked areas: it was in fact a main path, it was just much more narrow than the start of the trail and new to me, so it seemed like a magical hidden gem… another metaphor I guess — new things can seem unsure at first, but once you keep going you see that it’s not so unusual after all and there is so much magic to be found in it. You’re not alone here either, others have walked this path before you.

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Disclaimer: this article is not written with the intention to encourage people to mindlessly wander through unmarked trails! When I wander I do not go off in areas where there aren’t signs of a trail (maybe it’s not a main trail, but it is a trail). I make sure other people are around (a screams distance away) and I do not stray too close to any edges. I am not encouraging reckless hiking or wandering. Take the metaphors with a grain of salt! Have your wits about you and always pick up after yourself.

What’s on the menu?

Found Offline — a list of things that have caught my eye, been inspiring, and/or have made me stop to think about x y or z. These finds, true to the chapter’s name, didn’t take place on the internet. Sharing them with you as I think you might enjoy them too. A mini Home Update — a list of current project and links to where you can see more of completed ones! And Musings as of Late — an assortment of books, music, food, etc that have been mini joys (or all consuming) that you might relate to as well (would love to know your Musings in the comments if you feel called to share); delivered to you in a “speed round” format. Enjoy!

I’ve been trying to look offline more and more for inspiration and education. Sometimes it’s lovely to dive deep down a rabbit hole on Substack or Pinterest, however sometimes I find that the classics (magazines, a coffee table book, objects around you, a walk in the park) will truly hold the biggest spark of inspiration, thought, memory, or joy.

Workshops: This is a semi online one as the prompts take place on an app, but primarily offline for the meat of the work. I’ve just finished up the Be Seen challenge with To Be Magnetic (if you’ve listened to the Expanded Podcast these are the same folks!). I signed up for their pathway membership last year to do the Inner Child Workshop, but did not complete it as my world got flipped upside-down and life was really hard for a few months (still is, still catching my breath, but functioning). These challenges make you face a lot head on as you really “do the work” and dive deep into confrontation with parts of yourself that you maybe wouldn’t have done otherwise. They also just take time to literally do. You listen to DI’s (guided somatic meditations), journal, and follow other aligned actions throughout the month (yes, partially woo woo, but also everything they do is science backed). To me it feels like the right amount of work (10-30 minutes for 4-5 times/week), but it does require commitment so if you’re thinking about joining for the next one make sure you have (or make) time to commit.

This Be Seen challenge was fantastic IMO. It was about facing parts of you that might have been holding you back from, well, being seen; whether it’s with friends, family, career, personal goals, etc.. The workshop is set up in a way that helps you confront any past traumas or insecurities that might be hindering you from where you want to actually be in life. The goal is to release what’s holding you back and allow yourself to move forward feeling unblocked and more magnetic to the energies and life you want to attract with aligned action and tangible steps to do this. If you claim to have no woo woo in you then this probably is flying over your head (and honestly maybe my page isn’t the right one for you lol) but if any bit of this has made you think “oof girl I need to do that” then at minimum I’d recommend listening to their podcast, Expanded (free). I did that for a few months at first and then signed up for a year long membership. You don’t have to agree with everything they say or believe, but if even a small percentage or a quote or two can make a positive impact on you I think that’s what their ultimate goal is. Jess (podcast host) is incredibly relatable and truthfully vulnerable (also just a great host and interviewer). On the small chance you see this Jess, thank you for all you do!

Walks around the creek: When I move in somewhere new I love to go on a daily walk to explore the neighborhood, so between unpacking boxes at this new spot I did just that. I went in every direction except one and felt like I knew the lay of the land and started repeating a route that I enjoyed. My landlord came by to fix something one day and asked if I had walked by the creek yet. I had not, I didn’t know it existed! It was the one direction I hadn’t yet explored. So the next morning I ventured down the neglected (by me) path and came to find the most magical wonderful welcoming little creek loop! It’s about a mile long and loops around a creek surrounded by trees, a community “rock snake,” a community garden, a playground, and lots of happy pups out for walks.

I couldn’t believe I almost missed this wonderful spot, but am so glad to have found it. I walk or run (trying to be better about exercise again) it almost every day now and it really is a highlight of my day. So take this as a sign to explore your neighborhoods even more, or neighborhoods around yours, and try to carve out a little oasis nearby. Might be a park, a walkway, a river or stream, maybe its a beach path, or a hidden trail in the forest, maybe it’s even a couple of blocks in your favorite part of the city you live in! Whatever makes you so happy to be surrounded by is worth finding.

Gardening: Dirt under my nails has become a very welcome sight. Taking time out in the garden or putzing around a nursery has really turned into an offline activity that I don’t take for granted. I find it to be one of the parts of my day that I am most present and least anxious. Phone away, laptop shut, nothin but me and some plants. Might not be doing much, but it’s doing much for me.

Even if you don’t have yard, but can grow a few seeds on a windowsill, it’s really is wonderful to see a little sprout turn into something green.

So much has been done, and yet there is still so much to do. I don’t even know where to start with this update so I’m going to go about this section in a bullet list format:

• Bookshelf update!

• I found a TV cabinet! I love having my TV not on display for aesthetic reasons, but I also love that I’m more intentional about when I choose to tune in for a show or movie rather than just having it on out of habit.

• Bathroom update!

• Slowly finding pieces via marketplace, antique shops, thrifts, and flea markets.

• Kitchen updates!

What other projects are to be done?

• Find lots of chairs: armchairs, dining chairs, and a desk chair.

• Add some curtains to the bottom few shelves of my bookshelves, similar to this.

• I’m looking for a huge piece of art for my living room. I would love to find or make a canvas that feels like my Art Pinterest board:

  

• I would love to get some cafe curtains over my kitchen sink window. I did a temporary makeshift curtain to test it out and I love the privacy it adds while still letting light in, so I’m on the hunt for fabric for this project (thrift shops tend to have such good cotton fabric scraps in their craft sections as well as old pillowcases/sheets that could be turned into curtains) or I’m open to buying something if I can find something I like that’s already out there!

• Finding and adding an entryway storage/credenza, would love to find something antique or secondhand for this!

• Hanging up entryway coat hooks and mirror (found the mirror at a flea market, but need to get some heavy duty mirror hangers for this).

Ooof so many more little projects to be done, but this is my main list for now!

What a journey this garden has been (and still is)!! So many updates have happened in the past month including, but not limited to: 2 veg beds, 3 shrubs in the ground, 3 bags of soil from the soil farm, 1 horrible sunburn, and many afternoons just starring at the yard trying to figure out what to do.

If you want to go down a deep dive on the garden update, you can catch up on everything in this post, but if you’re only mildly curious here’s my mini update.

There is a LOT to think about when planning a garden, where the sun will hit (and where it won’t), the flow of the space, what style you’re going for (English, cottage, Mediterranean, etc), how much time you can give to upkeep (pruning, watering, feeding, etc), what your goal is (flowers, veggies, herbs, etc), and much more. When starting my garden I was eager for both flowers and veggies which lead me to dive in quicker than I should have, but it was the end of Spring when I moved and I wanted to catch the season before it was over.

I ended up planting some veggies in a raised bed, and then later more in a half wine barrel, along with finally transplanting my potted shrubs from my last place into the ground (so grateful I can plant in the ground even though I rent). We’ll see how the transplants do, but so far the veggie beds are freaking lovinggggg lifeeeeee. I have pole beans, lettuce, carrots from seed, basil from seed, two varieties of tomatoes, and nasturtiums from seed as well. I also have some florals going like petunias, roses, lavender, pansies, and salvia. Tip: if you’re new to gardening choose something that’s suited to your zone, hard to kill, and that you see thriving in other peoples yards — its a good sign it’ll grow well for you too!

My next garden goals are to transplant one of my rose bushes to a larger terracotta pot, get the lavender in the ground, add an herb barrel bed (rosemary, lavender, and other “dry climate” herbs) to the opposite side of my other barrel (this will “ground the space” more), and get my garden furniture in (I found a table/chairs at an estate sale, but they need them there while staging to sell the house, hoping to get them sometime before the end of July). If you’re a pro or a newbie, how’s your summer gardening going?? Any discoveries or happy moments so far??

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You know when you listen to a podcast and they have a speed round of answers to questions at the end? This is going to be like that, except actually speedy.

Eating: This meal was created from random stuff I had in my fridge and turned out to be absolute perfection. Really looking forward to making it again: Rice, edamame (or edadade as my grandma used to say), top with hot sauce; then add avocado, sweet potato (roasted with oil and garlic and salt), and top with Toby’s ranch, finally add a fried egg, and top with truffle ketchup. You are welcome.

Listening to:

Exercising:

Eyeing: In last month’s article I shared I was eyeing the Billy bookshelf as a solve for my lack of book storage, for an update on that tune in here. This month I’m really on the hunt for chairs: armchairs, dining chairs, and a desk chair. I’ve been eyeing these but the price tag has me scouring FB Marketplace for something more in budget. Links here if you have that baller budget.

Reading: Last time I shared I was just starting in on The Four Winds by Kristen Hannah, she is usually a without fail fantastic read IMO, but for some reason I just could not get into this book which was so sad to me. I quit around page 70, but might revisit. Anyone agree? Or feel differently about this one? A book I did read and enjoy last month was The Scent Keeper! Really unique. The first few chapters you’ll be like “whaaa?” but stick with it! I’m now starting in on The Bookshop at Water’s End. I love the way Patti Callahan Henry has transported me with her other books, so I’m hoping this one does the same!

Watching: Tracker on Paramount, very bingeable.

Trying: To get outside for a walk at least once a day!

Would love to hear if you connect with any of these (or enjoyed any of the ideas, recommendations, links, etc) and if you feel called to, please share any of your own musings in a comment:

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That concludes this months musings. I hope to see you at the next one, or earlier if you read other articles from The Nest. Please do feel encouraged to leave a comment with any questions or ideas that were sparked with this read. And if you write a similar article feel free to leave it in the comments, would love to read yours.

Thanks for the fun, and…

As a disclaimer, this post included an affiliate link. If you choose to purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no cost to you. It’s simply the brands way of thanking me for recommending them. I do not share links to items I don’t truly love.

At first I think I was rushing the process a bit too much, I was trying to catch the season for planting while I could (I moved in at the end of spring), but as I’ve worked on the space a bit more I’ve realized I need to slow it way down and take my time with it. A garden isn’t something that happens overnight and a good garden requires a lot of patience.

That said, I did manage to get a few things done over the last month, I still have a lot of work to do and I’m sure some things will change over time, however it’s a start and I’m happy to see some hummers and butterflies starting to make visits.

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In this update I’ll be sharing an extremely non-polished (yet in depth) video covering ideas for making a boring bathroom look a bit more charming, solutions for lack of storage, a tutorial on how I made a sink curtain out of an old bedsheet, and a living room behind the scenes preview. But first, a word from your sponsor (that’da be me, myself, and I)

Achhhem:

This Home Update is free to all subscribers as it’s in a fun (IMO) long format video! Grab your tea or your wine, kick back, and enjoy the show. And if you’d like to continue to receive more articles from The Nest, or upgrade to paid for the rest of this home series, please do so via the button below. The Nest is a reader supported publication, that means every $8/month subscription directly supports your writer (me, Rose)! This allows me to continue to dedicate time to sharing and creating articles and ideas like these for you to (hopefully) enjoy.

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Enough of that, let’s get to the good stuff!

If links are available to items used you can find them here.

Please excuse the extreme informality of the video, I had so many things going on while filming, but wanted to record the process for you so I felt like this was what I could manage! While not the prettiest, it got the job done and hopefully shared a few ideas with you. If you have any questions on anything that I forgot to cover please drop a comment!

It’s been about a week now and everything has held up great. I haven’t yet washed the sink skirt, but I’m really curious to see how it holds up. I think I might have to hand wash this since I used the double sided tape for the “hemming.”

In addition to working on the bathroom last week, I’ve also made a lot of progress on the living room. I’m still waiting on a bookshelf idea to hit home before making moves there, need to donate/sell some items that aren’t quite working and are taking up space, find a lounge chair and a desk chair, but other than that (lol) we’re goin strong! The bedroom is feeling great too, definitely needs some work on the closet storage situation, but I’m finally at a point where it’s working for now and boxes aren’t everywhere and I can take my time figuring out the way to move forward without feeling like I’m in a hectic space. Same with the kitchen, pretty functional, just needs some final touches, but not rushing it.

I’m not sure which room the next Home Update article will cover, but I have a feeling it will be the living room since I got the couch in and haven’t yet shared about that and am quite eager to do so! Hopefully I can nail down a bookcase situation for that article, but if not then the bookcase might end up being its own whole article once it comes along (could include info on whatever I end up using, styling tips, favorite books to have handy, books on my TBR, etc… sounds like a fun bonus one to me!).

Stay tuned and I’ll see ya on the next update!

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This month is a tad shorter as I’ve been in the process of moving (exciting!) so most of my musings have been inside a moving box, alas I still have a few fun things to share.

What’s on the menu?

Found Offline — a list of things that have caught my eye, been inspiring, and/or have made me stop to think about x y or z. These finds, true to the chapter’s name, didn’t take place on the internet. Sharing them with you as I think you might enjoy them too. A mini Home Update — a brief introduction to the new spot! And Musings as of Late — an assortment of books, music, food, etc that have been mini joys (or all consuming) that you might relate to as well (would love to know your Musings in the comments if you feel called to share); delivered to you in a “speed round” format. Enjoy!

I’ve been trying to look offline more and more for inspiration and education. Sometimes it’s lovely to dive deep down a rabbit hole on Substack or Pinterest, however sometimes I find that the classics (magazines, a coffee table book, objects around you, a walk in the park) will truly hold the biggest spark of inspiration, thought, memory, or joy.

Tickets: While cleaning out my dads place I found a bunch of his old tickets from the 80’s. So many memories held in these. While looking through the collection it made me pause and wonder just when the the art of a physical ticket go out the window? As a kid and teen and even in my twenties I remember getting real tickets for movies, fairs, concerts, etc so it must have been just within the last few years.

Just the other day I went to the movies and my ticket was a QR code on the bottom of the receipt! While efficient, I fear we may have lost the art of tickets… these small things might seem trivial, but they add up; they make life beautiful and interesting where you wouldn’t expect it.

Coffee and people watching: A practice as old as time, having a drink and watching life around you, but something that is rarely done (at least for me). When dining out (or grabbing a coffee, wine, etc) I often find comfort in bringing a book or notebook to keep me company. Lately though I’ve tried to just be present while enjoying my time at a cafe, if not for the whole sitting at least for a chunk of it. Taking 10 minutes to just be and listen to music, watch passersby, and really taste the thing your drinking/eating is such a nice practice to enjoy the present moment.

Shells: Beach combing has been a meditative practice for me since I was a wee one (although I didn’t know it was a state of meditation until my 20s, it was just something we always did). And while I hate to admit it, I haven’t been to the beach in quite a while which is embarrassing as I’ve lived close to the ocean for the last few months (life, sigh). I have collected a pretty sizable array of shells over the last 31 years of life though and I have found such inspiration in them while unpacking and finding new homes for them in my new

The update we’ve all been waiting for (mostly me) is finally here! I’ve signed a lease and have already started moving in! The relief and excitement that I feel is overwhelming.

Below is my not-to-scale version figuring out a space, usually done within my head, but this is sort of a peek into the inside of my brain. Lots of my attention has been going into the new place and it’s been fun to dream up how I’m going to lay everything out… I also have to purchase: a couch, chairs, bookshelves, coffee table, and a few other things for the living room, so I’m semi starting from scratch with that room which is a very fun thing to look forward to.

It might take a bit of time (mindfully and with intention is my preferred way of furnishing a space), so unlike most things these days, this will not be an instant gratification update (IMO, we need more of this). That said, I’ve made good progress in a week! Already picked up a few things from antique shops that felt right for the space and I have a couch on the way next week. If you care to join along on the journey I will be making a Home Update series sharing home projects, furnishing details, inspiration, and other home and garden related updates.

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A couple of the plants I shared about last month (strawberries, hollyhocks, poppies, and sweet pea seeds) have been sprouting so nicely! The strawberries have taken root and are steady, but when they provide fruit they are TINY. Really tasty, but so small. The hollyhocks are doing well and sprouted so fast! Excited to see these bloom. The poppies sadly aren’t doing well. They sprouted and then sort of disappeared. I’m not sure if something ate them or if they just got washed away when watering them… Win some lose some. I’ll be moving these into the new spot next week so I’m curious to see how they thrive there.

Since then I’ve also planted some basil seeds which are just now sprouting, potted a mint bush, added in some more Bacopa to my rose bush pot, picked up a few geranium plants (one potted, a few to be planted outside), and some lavender for the front yard.

I fell in love with this type of mint bush (Prostanthera Ovalifolia Variegata, say that three times fast) when I saw one in Petaluma when I was first considering living there. So when I saw it at the nursery a few weeks later I immediately picked it up no questions asked ($15, so reasonable IMO). About a week later I ended up finding my home and signing a lease, I think this little mint bush has a bit of luck in it. It now sits outside my front door welcoming me home and I like to think of it as a good omen to this space.

These are the geranium and lavender that I bought for the garden. I was going to plant them immediately, but my landlord has informed me that they’re painting my home soon (it’s gonna look great), so I’m going to hold off until thats done. In order to give them some growing room though I’ll likely just transplant them into pots for the time being (I already planted one geranium into a pot and actually love it in my living room so that might be where that one lives now).

You know when you listen to a podcast and they have a speed round of answers to questions at the end? This is going to be like that, except actually speedy.

Listening to: A lot of Sierra Ferrell, Dolly Parton radio station, and the Expanded podcast.

Eating a lot of: Packaged Indian food lol

Drinking: I have been on a whole water journey lately (more here), but until I get that sorted out I’ve been filling up jugs of reverse osmosis remineralized water at the local market. Also been drinking (glass) bottled San Pellegrino’s which is not something I commonly do but I really have been enjoying, makes me feel so fancy.

Worrying about: Aside from the obvious (the world), I’ve been stresssssin about my closet situation at my new spot (seems trivial when placed in the same sentence as world worries). It’s a little chaotic (will write more about this in Ch1 of The Home Update), and I know its just a closet, but daily practices like getting dressed in the morning when done in chaos make my brain so tired. What can I say, I like things to have a place and when they don’t have a place I get a bit antsy.

Eyeing: Various bookshelves for my home. I’ve gone the antique/thrift route for most of my living room purchases (more to be shared in The Home Update), and am considering going new for these, especially since I might need a couple of them. Anyone have the Billy Bookshelf from IKEA? Love it? Hate it? Please share.

Strengthening: Sharing a couple favorite movement YouTube’s from the last month:

Reading: Just starting in on The Four Winds by Kristen Hannah. I’ve been craving a good read, but staying away from KH because her books always make me cry, but I can usually depend on her writing to suck me into a book and I’ve been in a bit of a slump, so here we go… fingers crossed!

Watching: Rosemary & Thyme (early 2000s gardening detectives set in the english countryside, what more could you possibly ask for).

Trying: Essential oil diffusers (not my first time using oils, but lost this practice over the last year and am getting back into it while unpacking, I use one from Bursera).

Would love to hear if you connect with any of these (or enjoyed any of the ideas, recommendations, links, etc) and if you feel called to, please share any of your own musings in a comment:

Leave a comment

That concludes this months musings. I hope to see you at the next one, or earlier if you read other articles from The Nest. Please do feel encouraged to leave a comment with any questions or ideas that were sparked with this read. And if you write a similar article feel free to leave it in the comments, would love to read yours.

Thanks for the fun, and…

As a disclaimer, this post included an affiliate link. If you choose to purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no cost to you. It’s simply the brands way of thanking me for recommending them. I do not share links to items I don’t truly love.

The Mood Board

This Marketplace Mockup was an especially fun one for me to create as it’s made up of a collection of saved items I’m considering buying for my next home (if you missed it, you can read the final update in the Apartment Hunt series here). The space has charm, but it doesn’t have too many major style elements; which in this case I like because it means I can really go any direction with how I want to bring it to life. With a pretty blank canvas at my fingertips I have a lot of creative freedom, here’s a glance at the overall mood I’d like to sew into my new home:

Tip: Something that is often forgotten is that a mood board shouldn’t necessarily be filled with the thing (in this case rooms, homes, etc) that you want it to be like, but rather it should be filled with any inspiration that gives off the feeling you want that thing to have.

Calm undertones with a soothing misty yet bright color palette. Natural materials that flow seamlessly throughout the space in a peaceful manner. Minimal, but in a welcoming way that is filled with life. A space that is filled with an elegant charm.

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The Mockups

Something I’ve learned over the last few years is that darker furniture can actually make a place feel softer. In the past I’ve tended to lean more towards lighter woods and other light toned natural materials. I think this is because I like spaces to feel soft and welcoming, so naturally I think lighter tones are the way to go. And that can definitely work, however recently I’ve better understood how to mix in darker furniture to create a bit of depth and contrast, while still keeping a space airy and light. I’m excited to explore this a bit more with this space.

It really depends on the surroundings of the space (art, lighting, other furniture, etc), and also the shape and material thats used in the darker furniture. For example the tv cabinet above is dark, but still exudes a really gentle feeling, whereas something like a black dresser from ikea is more stark and bold and might feel a little out of place for the feeling I’m going for in this space. Another example would be cherry wood, while gorgeous, it isn’t quite the right tone for the mood board I’m working with. The shape, imperfections, color, and wear can all contribute to how the piece might fit into (or not fit into) your space.

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Moving into the bedroom… some might see a dresser like below as past it’s prime (if you zoom in there are indeed many scratches and lots of wear), however as I mentioned above patina on a piece can actually soften the furniture in a way that makes the piece just a bit more charming.

Sometimes though, “patina” is just wear and tear and it actually needs a bit of restoration and love. The amount of wear on a piece that you’re open to is entirely a personal preference. Some people dont like any at all, some people only like it on things like brass, others want a little patina in every room. It’s a personal preference and no truly right or wrong way to go about it (although some folks might think there is if they’re extemely passionate about their own opinion).

The yard space is something I have been daydreaming of ever since I signed the lease. It’s a little overwhelming as its just dirt, and not even leveled out dirt… its dirt on a slope. But!! That just means there’s so much potential. These are some of the ideas I’ve been floating around in my head that have been sparked with the below marketplace finds:

If you have any experience leveling out a dirt slope either by retaining wall or a deck or something else, please do share your experience if you’re comfortable leaving a comment:

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That’s it so far folks! Every day that leads up to the move I keep meeting more people who know of someone who lives in Petaluma or nearby, and they only have good things to say about it, so as you can guess I’m getting pretty excited. In time I’ll be sharing more of the decorating process on YouTube, so if you enjoy reading these articles and want to see them come to life in video format (long form, not Shorts) you can find me over there! I will however also be sharing more of the process here on my Home Update series (not yet started, will kick that off when the move in begins).

Catch up on the last MM:

& other news:

• For other Marketplace Mockups feel free to peruse here

• Latest updates on the Apartment Hunt

• Last months Monthly Musings

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Honored that you made it this far!
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Until next time,
Rose

Backing up though, we’re not there quite yet. This is still officially The Apartment Hunt series and not The Home Update series (yet). So without further ado, here’s the (final) update:

Listen to the gut and sign the lease

As I confirmed the appointment viewing for the following day at 3:30pm I had very low expectations and did not think I’d need my checkbook (foreshadowing, I did). The spot was listed on Craigslist and only shared a photo of the outside, a photo of the kitchen, and a photo of a corner of a room — I really didn’t have a great idea of what I was going to be seeing. I didn’t know if it was attached to another house, I didn’t know if it was one unit of many, I really just went in a bit blind with very little information and very low expectations. But I thought I might as well keep the ball rolling and check out another apartment, I had been trying to go to one a week to keep putting out into the universe that I wanted to find a spot.

That said, my mindset around finding my next spot had recently shifted. I had been anxious to find a place and really trying to not settle where I am right now because I knew it was just temporary. The other week though I thought, “you know what? I just need to do what I need to do to enjoy my time where I am” and I put some time into making my space a little more me (and also to put the energy into the universe of “act how you want to attract” and literally within a week I found the place that I’m going to call Home next).

So I went up to Petaluma not expecting much from this place, but thought if anything I’ll have a nice day exploring (recommendations and spots visited at the directory at the end of this article) and was meeting a friend for dinner. After spending the day there I really started to fall in love with it and was met off guard with the thought and feeling of “I really want to live here.” When I started looking at spots in Petaluma it wasn’t because I had a dying interest to live there, but because my neighbor, Joan, said it might be a fun place to check out (thanks Joan!). My mom and I took a day trip up a couple weeks ago and I liked it there, but didn’t know if it was fully for me. Over the next few weeks I randomly met a couple people who lived there and really loved what they had to say about it. So I went up there again, this time alone, and the feeling shifted to more of a yearning. I think there’s something lovely about visiting a place with people you love, but there’s also something so important about spending time there alone if you’re considering living there. I think it allows you to get a glimpse into what a “normal day” could feel like.

When this yearning hit I of course started to get a little bit nervous because “what if I didn’t like this apartment and I have to keep looking? And now I’d have to keep driving up here every week?” (it’s just over an hour away from where I am now). A bigger part of my brain butted in and said “stop worrying, it’s all gonna work out how it’s all meant to be.”

So when 3:15pm a rolled around I started making my way to the viewing… and I was in awe. The drive up was tree lined and beautiful and calm and quiet; huge things on my List. When I parked outside of the house I was so confused because it was a house… a small, tiny, standalone house! No shared walls, it had its own address, it wasn’t in someone’s backyard… It was its own whole little property.

When the landlord opened the front door for me I just could not stop smiling, my heart was racing and I was just so happily surprised at the space. The floors were beautiful. There were huge windows for lots of soft morning light to stream through. The ceilings were high, but in a cozy way, not in an overwhelming way. It was a full one bedroom (I lived in a studio prior, so having a one bedroom with a door was a huge thing on my List). The kitchen was a real full-size kitchen, not just a wall! There was laundry (which I didn’t know there was going to be and she said they’re ordering new washer and dryer to update it). There’s an attic for storage! I was allowed to get a pet if I wanted to! There’s a little balcony off the kitchen, a yard in the front, AND there’s a side yard. They don’t care if I plant things, they don’t care if I make home updates, they don’t care if I hang art… I was beaming.

“We just want someone to love it here and feel like it’s their home,” magic to my ears.

She said “I’m gonna run an errand and if you’re still here when I come back, let’s talk about signing a lease, ok?”

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What’s on the menu?

Found Offline — a list of things that have caught my eye, been inspiring, and/or have made me stop to think about x y or z. These finds, true to the chapter’s name, didn’t take place on the internet. Sharing them with you as I think you might enjoy them too. A mini Apartment Hunt Recap — a short summary of the apartment hunt series… and once I’ve found where I’ll next call Home this will turn into the “mini home update” (before/afters, tips, progress shots, ideas for your space too, etc). And Musings as of Late — an assortment of books, music, food, etc that have been mini joys (or all consuming) that you might relate to as well (would love to know your Musings in the comments if you feel called to share); delivered to you in a “speed round” format. Enjoy!

I’ve been trying to look offline more and more for inspiration and education. Sometimes it’s lovely to dive deep down a rabbit hole on Substack or Pinterest (my Pinterest feed has been off the charts good lately), however sometimes I find that the classics (magazines, a coffee table book, objects around you, a walk in the park) will truly hold the biggest spark of inspiration, thought, memory, or joy.

The offline finds I’ll share with you this time are a few magazine clippings, my aunts artist reception postcard, a favorite page from a mini (truly mini) coffee table book, and a new metal tray I purchased from a book store in Berkeley the other week. Lets dive in:

Woven Handbags, a true fashion staple that stands the test of time: I’ve been flipping through and reading a lot of magazines lately. I have a subscription to House & Garden UK, which has been out of the park lovely, but I’ve also been looking through some early 2000’s magazines (the writing, the imagery, everything was so good then) as well gathering visual inspiration from 90s ads in magazines as well. This week I clipped out an ad for a woven handbag (with a good cause) that caught my eye. As a kid I remember my grandma toting around a huge woven basket (and now my mom does the same) with all her nicknacks, snacks, and knitting. I’ve since gathered a few favorite woven baskets of various sizes and shapes myself (mostly a few unique handmade ones: one from a local procurer, one from time spent in Sri Lanka, another that I thrifted, but I also have a beloved one from Sézane* that might just be my most used one). The article caught my eye because it just reinforced that the classics will truly stand the test of time. Whether you’re throwing in your notebooks and laptop or your nicknacks and knitting, a sturdy go-to woven bag is (and has been) truly a fashion and utility staple.

Art that makes you want to forget about instant gratification: My aunt is a Seattle based painter and she has a show coming up this next month. Without hesitancy I can say I am in awe of her work. Every. Single. Time. This show however feels different to me. I don’t know if its the subject matter, or maybe its just that I’ve changed, but for some reason my appreciation (and/or understanding) of her work has increased. I was FaceTiming with her and my mom a few weeks ago and she was showing us some of the final paintings she was working on. One in particular was a small island of trees reflecting in the water. As she spoke about everything left she had to get done I couldn’t stop starring at the reflection of the trees in the water. Not only did she paint the trees, but she painted the reflection of the trees??? My mind was boggled. And my patience to commitment was tested.

Hearing the process behind her work served as a great reminder that true talent and great results are produced by real commitment and patience and slowing down and being in the moment and, the big one, not instant gratification. My heart and soul knows that the things I love most and are most proud of have taken me time, but there is a part of me that really really loves instant gratification. But as Chris, my aunt, spoke about her upcoming show and was reflecting on her past shows, something in my brain shifted. Something settled and was almost eager and excited about finding and committing to something that didn’t give me instant gratification. The meditation, flow state, and pride that you achieve when you really sink into something for the long haul, and not for a quick “like” can feel like real purpose, or at least joy. So, if you happen to be in Seattle April 30th-May 30th and want to see some paintings that will make you feel like you’re excited to slow down and commit to something, you can see Water’s Edge by Christine Gedye at the Fountainhead Gallery on McGraw Street all through May.

I like this so I’m buying it: My relationship with money has really shifted in the last few months. If I see something I instantly and authentically love I usually buy it (if its under a certain price point). If I’m at a cafe and I want the fancy latte I’ll splurge on it. If I want to treat my mom to a nice meal I don’t think twice. In the past I would stand there and question all of these purchases and possibly feel guilty about it, or at least a bit of worry, before ultimately handing over the money (or regretting not making the purchase). On the flip side of that if I see something I sort of like and would maybe buy “if __insert the exact right situation__were to come up,” there is absolutely no part of me that wants to buy it (where there used to be a part of me that would try to justify it). If I don’t love it, don’t 100% align with it, there is no question in my mind that it’s not for me.

It’s a weird thing, this shift. Honestly, it’s probably because I lost my dad a few months ago, the whole “life’s short, live it” thing is really fresh in my head. But it’s also weird because I’m not making a lot of money right now. So it’s not that I have a lot of extra cash at the moment, it’s just that my relationship with money has really shifted into a new space. All this to say, I was at a bookstore the other week and they also had a few trinkety things and some art. A metal tray immediately caught my eye. It had a beautiful floral print embellished on it and I could instantly envision it hung up on a wall as a piece of art in my future apartment (that doesn’t yet exist, still on the hunt for it).

My now-brain went “Oh lovely!” and picked it up to purchase (without questioning if anyone else would think it’s cool or beautiful, the only opinion in that moment that mattered was my own, which is something I’m also getting better at listening to). My past brain crept in for a moment and said “Do you really need this though?” and my current brain replied, “Nope, but I love it so I’m buying it.” And now it sits next to me holding my Airpods and blue light glasses (which I should probably be wearing right now) and I couldn’t be more pleased. Not only did I listen to my gut and buy something I really love and that symbolizes goodness in my future, but I also put my money forward to a local shop and helped to support someone else’s dream and future goodness. I’ve been trying to purchase with this sentiment at the forefront of my mind: every dollar you spend is a downpayment on the type of world you want to live in.

Tiny book, big impact: Chic Simple did a couple of mini coffee table book publications and I am too in love with them. And when I say mini, I mean physically and literally mini, not metaphorically mini in a degrading way. These books are too sweet at a size of just about 5 inches x 5 inches. MINI! The perfect size to slip into your purse for some light reading. The specific spread I had Bed Linens open to was all about pillow covers.

It caught my eye at first because of the darling imagery on the lefthand side. But after reading further it was interesting to feel a smidge of confirmation in my opinion that pillows can have a huge impact on the way a room feels. I’ve said for years that the easiest way to give your room a makeover is just to change the sheets. Having one simple white linen set and one (or two) patterned sets is my preferred way to go. Then you can easily change the sheets while the other set goes in the washing and enjoy a whole different vibe in the room for a little while.

I remember investing in my first set of “adult” sheets (aka, more than $30 from Ross, no hate to Ross though) and it was a huge exciting feeling! I bought a gorgeous, very simple, yet well made, white linen duvet and pillowcase set from The Beach People (they no longer make sheets) who are based in Australia. I fell in love with the brand when I lived out there years ago and had been eyeing this set for months. While it felt like a huge investment, it was one that I felt really good about. I’ve had this set for over 10 years now and they have only gotten softer with time. Invest in quality materials and classics styles and they will reward you through the years.

Eventually this section will turn into a “mini home update” read which I’m really looking forward to, but for now it is what it is! The full apartment hunt update can be read here, but I’ll share a mini recap below:

I took a day to explore Berkeley to see what it might feel like to live there (I check Zillow listings over there a lot, so I thought I better see if I feel like I could really live there before I fall in love with too many charming apartments). It turns out, it just didn’t feel right in my gut. It’s such a fun place to explore and spend a day, but it didn’t feel like a place I wanted to call home in this next chapter.

I also shared a directory to where I stopped in on during my adventure day in the east bay. A few favorites were Cousin Home, Mrs Dalloway’s Bookstore, and Best Friends wine bar. You can find the rest of the list here.

You know when you listen to a podcast and they have a speed round of answers to questions at the end? This is going to be like that, except actually speedy.

Listening to: Noah Kahan’s new album. On repeat.

Eating a lot of: Mozzarella cheese. I never buy this. I don’t know why. But last time I was at the store I did and now I’m wondering why the hell I haven’t been buying this more before? On pasta, on toast, on anything, it’s so good.

Drinking: I am a huge fan of Grocery Outlet, especially their wine section. I love discovering new wines and being able to try to wine brands at a price that doesn’t make me think twice. I recently picked up a bottle of Saldo (for the label entirely) and while waiting in the check out I looked up the company and they seem to be pretty cool! Happy to report that the white wine tastes great too. Now that I know this the next time Im there I’ll pick up a red too.

Quoting: Ian Holm (Pascal) from Big Night, “bite your teeth into the ass of life”

Worrying about: Instead of sharing worries this week I’ll share with you my counteract to balance the worries. I try to sprinkle in lots of @recess_therapy to even out the “you’ve got to be kidding me’s” of the world.

Eyeing: Apartment listings lol.

Strengthening: Trying to be better about getting some intentional movement in. Sometimes its just a walk outside in the meadow or up the mountain for a hike, but I also love a good 12-20 min youtube workout. Along with the Gabby George arm workouts on tiktok (quick, but killer and effective), these have been a few faves:

Planting: I recently planted a few strawberry starts and have been enjoying the fruits of my labor! I also planted a few hollyhocks, poppies, and sweet pea seeds about a week ago so I’ll have to update you next month with photos of how they’re getting on.

Adding this note in right before hitting “send” — I think next month “planting” will get its own whole section in this series. Since writing this I’ve planted so much more and will have so many fun updates! I’m no expert, so it will be a “learn with me” sort of section, not necessarily a planting advice column.

Reading:

MYLEIK

You’re Allowed to Have Fun While You Figure It Out

I’ve noticed something about hard seasons: people start editing their lives down to the essentials, and fun is usually the first thing to go…

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4 months ago · 4133 likes · 90 comments · MYLEIK.

The Slow Post 💌

the whole point is to stay interested in yourself

inspired by a shared human experience, so take your time to absorb it…

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5 months ago · 58 likes · 9 comments · Tanvi Verma | The Slow Post 💌

Watching: House tours on YouTube. This one of a 16th-Century farmhouse in the English Countryside was lovely.

Trying: I’m having so much fun trying out different words and names in this Nasa Name Generator! So cool.

Would love to hear if you connect with any of these (or enjoyed any of the ideas, recommendations, links, etc) and if you feel called to, please share any of your own musings in a comment:

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That concludes this months musings. I hope to see you at the next one, or earlier if you read other articles from The Nest. Please do feel encouraged to leave a comment with any questions or ideas that were sparked with this read. And if you write a similar article feel free to leave it in the comments, would love to read yours.

Thanks for the fun, and…

*As a disclaimer, this post included an affiliate link. If you choose to purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no cost to you. It’s simply the brands way of thanking me for recommending them. I do not share links to items I don’t truly love.

This weeks exploration was over the bridge to Berkeley. I’ve been there many times in teen years, along with multiple visits throughout my twenties (even on an apartment viewing back in 2022), and a couple times since then. That said, I still thought it would be a good idea to take a visit again with fresh eyes and a mindset about what it might look like to live there now that I’m in my 30s. And I’m glad I did.

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The various lives I’ve lived after I graduated college in 2017 have been plentiful… I’ve lived out of suitcases and hostels around the world, I nannied in Portland Oregon and made very artistic and talented friends (and got my very own first ever studio apartment there!!), I had a full time big girl job in LA for a few years (and that studio apartment turned into a one bedroom with a loft), and I’ve lived in a back house cottage in Monterey with a much slower lifestyle while learning what the full time content creation world was like.

On paper it all sounds wonderful, but along with the joyful moments there have been many hardships too. The hard times show us bits of ourselves that we didn’t know were there, we find out who we are a little more (and maybe how we want to change too). It usually comes at us whether we like it or not, whether we’re ready for it or not. Alongside that there are moments filled with joy, and those joy-filled moments teach us what we truly enjoy in life.

I see a pattern that every few years I make a major change based on life experiences (or lack thereof), and along with that change I feel like parts of my identity shift. Not the core things, but the parts that the outer world sees. The parts that I’m trying on for myself, “do I like being a beach gal?” “maybe I like wearing dresses now?” and all the frivolous yet wonderful things that make us who we are. Some things stick, “ok, this is part of who I am” and some things don’t “oh… that’s not really me.” I think it’s all a necessary part of figuring out who you really are, but it gets to a certain point where I can’t help but wonder: will I always be changing who I am? When do I know when I’m done trying things on and when I’ve actually found whats truly me?

I’m currently in an “in between” stage for multiple reasons, but it feels different this time. It feels more sure, less “I guess I’ll try this now!” and more like I’m searching for what and where and who aligns with who I am… Not so much searching for a new expereince to try it on and see if it fits to find out who I am, but more so searching for where I belong because I know who I am.

… and then the fear creeps in, I say that now, but what if in two years who you think you are now changes again? Is it a bad thing to be constantly changing? Maybe its good, it means you’re growing as a human. But not having your solid “I know who I am” identity can be so lonely. So lost in the woods. If you don’t know who you are, how will others? How will you connect? How will you make roots for yourself? Do you want to make roots for yourself? These are the question my brain asks my soul and my soul says “Shhh! Just let me be who I am” and my brain says “but who is that!!!”

Maybe the things that are always true no matter where you’re at in life are the things that are what make you truly you, and the things like what you wear, where you live, how you decorate, what you do for work are all just visitors. The way society talks to us makes it feel like these visitors are what makes us us, but maybe it’s not so black and white. Maybe it’s a mix. Maybe it’s ok to know parts of you that will always be you, and maybe the visiting parts of you are also truly you, but just for a time being. And maybe it’s ok that there’s always a little bit of you thats changing.

Maybe thats when you know you’ve found your people and your place and your way in the world… When you’re accepted and loved for the true bits of you, but also for the changing parts of you. You’ve found your people when they grow with you, change with you, and don’t look at you like they don’t even recognize you when you decide you don’t want to dress a certain way anymore. They don’t say “oh thats not very you” and instead say “oh I’m loving this look on you!” Maybe you’ve found your lane of work when you can quit one job, and know that that time wasn’t wasted but directly aids skills for this next adventure. Maybe you’ve found the place you belong when its not so much about having the perfect apartment, but its about being in the community and the nature that surrounds it. Maybe if you accept that life is fluid and is always changing a little, you’ll realize that that is actually the magic of it all. That you get to experience and grow and have seasons of your own that change with the world around you.

Having things that you know to be true, a safe home, being in the trees, good music, no crowds, deep conversations, and a glass of white wine — your data — is a good thing. It can ground you. It can ground you while other things around you change. Your data supports you through it, it doesn’t judge you for not having other things in your life be data too; its whats there for you while other things aren’t.

Maybe the people who seem to have that constant true identity look out and wonder how others are able to change so much, but in awe of it, not in judgement of it. Maybe we see in others what we have ourselves and to others it seems like I really know myself even though to me it doesn’t feel that way at all. Maybe one day it won’t feel like I’m finding myself anymore, the visiting versions of a potential me will have quieted down… For now though, I’m going to try to welcome those visitors with a glass of white wine and open arms.

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The Finds

This weeks collection of goods feels very calming. It’s a moody seashore color palette that might not be overwhelming in color (sort of the point), but it sure does not lack texture or shape. If I had my next apartment now, I’d be tempted to buy up the table and rattan lampshade (and chair, and plates, and and and). Read on to see how I’d pair these up and put them to use.

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The Mockups

There are certain elements to a kitchen that can make it feel unique to the owner, even if you’re renting and unable to make permanent change. Obviously your own cookware and dishes will kick things off, but adding elements like art (functional or decorative) that’s meaningful to you or reflective of your experiences or surroundings (town where you live, etc) can make it feel not only more like your kitchen, but also can warm up a sometimes more sterile room (especially if its a newer building).

That said, take your surroundings into consideration and work with them, not against them. What’s shown above would not work in every style of home, but maybe you can pull inspiration from what you like. For example, maybe you like the idea of having a beautifully painted handmade bowl to display your fruits rather than the one you got at Target. Or maybe you have a breakfast nook, but haven’t found the right seating and this inspires you to expand your chair options. You could even just note the fact that you (maybe) like the color palette and tuck it away for future reference.

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I typically only wear my simple small gold hoops; I shower with them, sleep in them, and rarely ever take them off. However, lately I have been very into statement jewelry for special occasions. The pieces that have been catching my eye are what I imagine a mermaid might wear.

If you’re a bold one and you could even wear these pieces on the daily, especially if you have a more simple outfit going on. White on white with a pop of fun jewelry? Very fun. Simple denim with some funky earrings, outfit complete!

Whether its a basket, lampshade, chair, or another form of many wicker things; using the material like rattan in your home can make a space feel very welcoming. Because there are so many different items made from rattan (and seagrass, etc) you have a wide opportunity for how you want to incorporate it into your space. You could go heavy on the wicker by hanging baskets all over your kitchen (very cozy cottage vibes) or you could add just an element or two, like a lampshade on an alabaster base or even a summer hat hanging by the door, for a simpler, chicer, approach.

I think etched & beveled mirrors are having a moment in a come back way and I’m here for it. I personally think they’re a timeless look, so I hope (and don’t think it can ever go fully out of style) that it’s not a “here today gone tomorrow” type of come back.

And that concludes this weeks round up. I hope this Marketplace Mockup gave you inspiration when it comes to sourcing items and for reimagining how second hand (whether it’s from a vintage shop, thrift store, online marketplaces, or hand me downs from family) can be magnificent when blended together with thought and care.

If there’s a specific category, color, or style you’d like to see in next weeks MM, leave a comment sharing your idea and I’ll try to add it in!

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Catch up on last weeks MM:

Resources and other news:

• For other Marketplace Mockups feel free to peruse here

• Latest updates on the Apartment Hunt

• A dreamy garden virtual escape

• Small update in my own garden (I’ve eaten two!)

• An incredible read for anyone who has moved a lot, started over many times, and loves the adventure but also is ready to explore the idea of rooting down

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Honored that you made it this far!
Subscribe to see next weeks Marketplace Mockup and more related articles.

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Until next time,
Rose

*If you chose “thrift finds near your zip code,” leave a comment (or send a message) with your city or zip! And if this is the winning section of the poll I’ll then choose a zip code at random to explore on Marketplace.

Most of us accumulate many items that we love and/or use, however sometimes we don’t organize these items in the ways they’re begging to be stored; and therefore our home becomes overstimulating to be in. The solution that usually comes to mind is to downsize, however it’s not always that we own too much (yes, sometimes it is that we own too much), sometimes it’s that we’re just not organizing or showcasing the right items in the right way. If this sounds like you, keep reading.

You have the wrong items on display: Let’s use the kitchen as an example. Displaying kitchen items can be such a fun way to make an otherwise boring counter feel cozier, however the items you choose to showcase matter. While having the basics are important, it doesn’t mean they all should be displayed. For example, looking at wooden spoons versus rubber spatulas gives off a very different vibe. It doesn’t mean you cant have the rubber spatulas, but maybe its an item that gets stored in a utensils drawer by the stove instead of displayed on the counter next to the stove. Choose a theme to showcase (i.e. warm and inviting wood utensils and ceramic vessels, or cool and utilitarian metal gadgets and glass measuring cups, etc) and then put the other items away in kitchen drawers/baskets/etc.

The colors you’re using are clashing: Before you come for me, I’m by no means saying we should abandon using color in our homes... USE COLOR! However, color theory is important for a reason. If you have warms and cools and neons and pastels and neutrals and sparkles all at the same time it’s probably going to feel overwhelming. Choose a color pallet that generally works with the major pieces in your home (and the house/apartment itself) and go from there. Maybe your couch is a deep velvet teal, be intentional with how you throw in different tones and textures to play off of the blue to balance it out (ie maybe its time to retire or recover that one throw pillow you’ve had since collage that no longer suits your style). Maybe your bed frame is a nice shade of olive green, you can add sheets in different muted colors to compliment the olive shade. If you don’t want to add too many other colors in you can always add in different prints and textures to create more variety in the space without overwhelming the eye with battling color pallets.

As promised in the caption from the gallery above, here you go!

Ok, back to the original writing:

Your furniture might be the wrong shape/size for your home: A lot of us (myself included) borrowed or took home items from our family members when we were just starting out with our own place. This is such a wonderful way to cut down on costs and a great way to reuse furniture. However, it could be a reason why things don’t look “quite right” in your home. A couch thats sized for a full family is not necessarily the size of a couch you need in your first studio apartment. Or maybe you’ve graduated from your third apartment and are buying a home (congrats!), so the wonderful couch you bought 10 years ago for your first big girl apartment is probably a little too small for this new space. Try to take the space into consideration before purchasing something you love just because you love it. And if you’re getting hand me downs, and thats your only option at the moment, find ways to trick the eye to make it work. For example if the couch you’re bringing into your space is too small and it just looks awkward and clunky, try adding side tables and art or lamps on both ends of the couch to make the space feel more full.

Hiding the the stuff we need, but don’t want: Craft materials, extension cables and cords, holiday decor, and those pesky items that you don’t use frequently, but do need to keep for the occasional times you do need them are big contributors to clutter. This is a category where I would personally look through and try to donate items that I truly don’t need to hang onto. However, sometimes there are items that you do need to hang onto, but just don’t need accessible for daily use, I get it, I have them too. Once you have designated an area for this storage (maybe it’s on a shelf or in a closet), go to IKEA, Home Goods, The Container Store, or something similar and get matching bins (get bins that you like the look of if the storage is going to be on display. If its going to be tucked away in a garage, then just get something sturdy and stackable). Matching bins are key here for a few reasons. Reason one: if you need more in the future, you can get more and keep a consistent look. Reason two: if you need to stack them, they will fit perfectly and you don’t have to worry about wobbling sizes/etc. Reason three: if they’re on display it will look much more cohesive (although I do break this last rule sometimes, I group certain things in certain boxes, so Items A go in white boxes, Items B go in patterned boxes, etc). I have three white bins for storage displayed on my bookshelf that are complemented with a few wicker baskets, all serving as storage systems. So, if you go with multiple storage bins/boxes, I would make sure they compliment each other otherwise it might end up looking cluttered all over again.

Storing the right things, in the right way, can create more room: It’s pretty obvious that things like loose cords and random tidbits need to be put into a box or find their way into the right drawer, by doing so it not only keeps things visually tidy, but also makes a space more efficient. Sometimes though, it’s tidying the unexpected items (or items you put off finding a spot for) that are the real game changer in organizing life at home. Let’s use bed linens as an example. Some people are super lucky to have a whole linen cabinet or closet, so this tip, while applicable to those folks, might not be as game changing. If you’re like me and use a small portion of your clothes closet as a bed linens closet too, you have likely shoved things onto a shelf and had items come falling down like an avalanche more than once. It had been on my to-do list for ages to get a basket (so simple!!) that fit my top shelf to store my bed linens in instead of just stacking sheets on top of each other and hoping they didn’t fall over. Once I finally got the baskets I was kicking myself for not doing it earlier because it was such a game changer. Not only did the closet look much more visually organized, but it was way easier to grab what I needed (a pillow case from the pillowcase basket, a duvet from the sheets basket, etc), quicker to put things away, and because the basket held things tightly together it also created more room in the closet (a classic example of the ironic formula how sometimes adding more stuff gives you more room). This can also be the case with storing shoes properly, storing food in the fridge/pantry, bathroom organization, finding efficient ways to store your clothes, etc. Every home/every person will be different, so I don’t have the answers for your personal situation, but I can tell you that sometimes simple changes make the biggest difference and it’s worth taking the time to figure out what needs to change and how to implement those changes.

Other random organizing tricks I’ve been asked about in the past: I get messages asking about organization occasionally and I’ll drop answers to those FAQs (plus more tips) below:

• Where are your containers from? All storage bins are linked here when possible!

• How do you hang your hats? With command hooks.

• No ones ever asked me this, but just advice I’d offer: if you don’t have an office/desk, get one bin for important documents and put everything you’d need to grab in an emergency in there (i.e. social security card, passport, car titles, etc).

• Closet organization advice: use the same type of hangers in your closet for consistency (on one side of my closet I use felt covered hangers for shirts and dresses and on the other side I use wood hangers for my jackets and coats).

• Where do you store garage items? I bought a waterproof bin and store tools/garden supplies/etc in there.

• How do you keep your place organized? A lot of what I covered in this blog post goes into that answer, but also just tidying daily, doing dishes after every meal, I don’t let surfaces become a dump site (I put things away after I use them), and doing deep cleans monthly. When you live in a smaller space you don’t really have an option to let it get messy, each item needs to have a spot and if it doesn’t have a spot you either create a spot for it or ask yourself if you really need it. If the task to put something away takes under 5 minutes, I do it on the spot.
  But remember, if you’re in a pinch its fine to just shove it under the couch and call it a day... We’re only human.

I hope this was helpful and I hope it offered ideas, but didn’t make you feel like you need to implement this all at once. I’ll also leave you with the reminder that while yes, my home is organized and tidy most of the time because I am a neat freak and I like it that way, it’s not 100% tidy 100% of the time. I don’t share photos the random box filled with things I need to donate thats been sitting on my bedroom floor for a week or the bag of “idk what to do with this yet” thats just been hanging out in my car (sometimes my car acts as a storage unit and I wont lie about that lol). I think it’s safe to say that thats the case for most people, not everyone is on top of it all all the time. Give yourself grace. Organization takes time, and thats ok! Take your time to figure out what works for you and your space.

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