It is difficult sometimes to keep things in perspective. When I glance at our our window covered with sheet rock or poke my hand on the screws holding our back door together, it is easy to get frustrated. But our house is a gift, and my attitude is what makes it home.

It sounds like you know that, too. Don’t worry about having a showcase house. Continue to spend your time making special memories with your family.

But my house is a home. My family enjoys spending time together. We cuddle on the couch watching movies, read literature for bedtime every night, make crafts, laugh and joke, and follow a few traditions.

I know someone who lives in a Home and Gardens type of house. It is hard not to feel envious at her house. It is big, gorgeous, and full of nice furniture sets (not mismatched in any way). However, I’ve had the opportunity to see their family dynamics. They both work long, hard hours and spend little time with the kids. The relationships are not good, especially with the teen. When I see them interacting, I remember that it’s not the house that matters and I can come back home grateful about the choice we made to focus on relationships rather than a beautiful home filled with expensive furniture.