It always seemed like such a waste of time, or money to spend THAT much time on your yard. My assumption was that these overly enthusiastic yard workers either really loved being outside, or were just cocky little assholes with nothing else to do but try to be “that house” on the street. Gotta keep up with the Jones’ dontcha’ know.
There was a similar feeling toward those who’s interiors were done with the “look how awesome and creative I am” feel to it. Themed rooms, with accent colors and features that connect each room. How very Feng Shui.
Now I’m not talking about keeping up on your yard and house. My yard is always mowed, leaves removed, and sidewalk and driveway cleared of snow. My dishes get done. I dust, scrub, and mop. My house functions fine. I’m talking about the over-the-top perfect straight out of Better Homes and Gardens yards. And the “I like this page in Pottery Barn, so I will duplicate it exactly” houses. Who cares? It’s all about functionality for this girl! you won’t catch me fretting and in deep contemplation over exactly which picture frame would best keep the desired vibe! I’m a busy mamma and I don’t have time to worry about all that crap!
Then….I grew up. I fell on some hard times. As a newly divorced, single mother of 3, I felt defeated in life. I sat looking out the window of a dated, underwhelming duplex and just felt so worn down. The kids were playing outside, and I remembered my parents working on the yard when I was a child. Hell. Why not? So I grabbed a shovel and started edging the sidewalk. That led to me edging the driveway. I worked and worked, and just got lost in the repetitiveness of the job.
Looking at the work I did left me feeling accomplished and proud. I was SHOCKED at what a difference this one yard task made. Pulling into the driveway, I felt at home, and a pleasant peace. So I took it one step farther. I bought some flowers. I let the kids plant them, and smiled every time I pulled in and saw that pop of color.
Then next step. Curtains. I was going to buy some flipping curtains so I didn’t have to look at that old window frame. I went to the dollar store and bought some cheap, ugly, curtains. They matched, and that was good enough for me. It was life changing. My living room felt warm and inviting. ho-ly-shit. Who knew?? Not me!
So here I am, years later, and my house and yard is most definitely decorated and coordinated. Functionality can only take you so far. It may serve our physical needs, but the extra feeds our spirit. It makes it ours. So next time you’re feeling down, spruce your place up a bit! It will give your soul a smile 🙂
thatbethy 