Calming Spaces

When I first had children I remember thinking how much easier it would get as they grew, they would sleep more, they would be able to tell me what was wrong, they would sleep more, the food choices would grow, they would sleep more.  And while most of that is true, they do sleep more, I didn't really think about the fact that they would also do more things as they got older.  Like soccer, and ballet, and birthday parties, and parent/teacher conferences, etc. etc.  So, really at this point in time, I feel busier than ever, we have extracurricular activities occurring every night this week!  And I am, by nature, a homebody.  All of this running around stresses me out a little.  I think this is why, as I have gotten older and busier, I have begun to gravitate more towards calm, tonal spaces and simplicity in design.  I still love some color, and I know the hubs thinks too much neutral is boring, but I am really digging the white on cream on ivory schemes.  And although I really like the white, bright Cali style all over Instagram and Pinterest, I know that I am most comfortable living with a more cottage style.

Two blogs I am constantly turning to for inspiration these days are Jenny Steffens Hobick and Julie Blanner.  There spaces are uncluttered but not austere, and there are no jarring color combinations.  The pattern play is good but not distracting and everything seems purposeful.  Loving it.

The first group are all from Everyday Occasions by Jenny Steffens Hobick.

Julie Blanner's home is the epitome of calm as well.

I am beginning to figure out that our lives may never get less crazy than they are now but our home (even as a work in progress) can be just the sanctuary we need.