Kitchen Clarity
Kitchen Reno
I have been struggling to find the words for this blog. Our country is a mess right now. Honestly, dealing with a pandemic seems like the least of our problems. The cruelty that is so readily available – the blame, callous remarks, name calling on all sides (the fact that we are even defined by sides should be bad enough) has really made me pause. I am not sure writing about how beautiful my kitchen countertops are is really justifiable.
I was sharing these thoughts with a dear friend of mine. She is somewhat of a lifeline for me – she understands my crazy ideas, accepts my long list of shortcomings, and makes me braver. So, I told her about this writing conundrum as we sat around my kitchen table/island.
After she left, I considered the problem. That table is where we sit every time she comes over. It is the place I share what makes me restless and listen to her amazing ideas about life. It is the place that I dance with my family as we cook dinner. Through the window is where I watch my youngest son as he swings on his homemade tree swing for the millionth time that week. It is where my family gathers every night for dinner and when life and distractions calm down enough so we actually listen to each other. That kitchen isn’t superficial – it is the exact place my family and friends learn to be themselves. It is where we learn the lessons we need to face the world outside – kindness, acceptance, humor, and love.
This was the most difficult part of the house renovation. The floors alone were…let’s say, challenging. I often found myself just standing in this space thinking there was no way we could ever pull it off. I spent many restless nights trying to figure out just how to use the space. We needed a table and cabinets….crazy, I know. 🙂
After many different drafts and changes, we made the space work. The island has become one of my favorite spots in the kitchen. In the end, I ordered iron legs from Etsy and a butcher block top from Home Depot. It acts as my island and our kitchen table. Bonus…we can reach the refrigerator and dishwasher without leaving the table. Benefits of a small house are endless!
This kitchen is not perfect. This reno was not about making a perfect kitchen. It was about making a space that connected us. We gave it new life – like it does for me each night, gathered around the table with those I love the most. Plus, the countertops truly are beautiful.
May you each have your own “kitchen” space; one that unites you, reignites you, and allows you to breathe deeply and truly. May you have a place that is surrounded by those you love. And if you ever need it, my table is always open.
xoxo
Christy
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