Sonje's Profile

I grew up in a quite traditional row home in Baltimore. I still managed to fall, get my head stuck in things, burn myself, cut myself, etc. Instead of looking around for someone to sue, my parents would just yell at me for doing something stupid. I have to laugh at some of the parenting worries these days; over-protect their little bodies but let them learn their values from realty shows and play hours of murderous video games. In fact, I'd love it if some of these evil little buggers lived in these houses. It might give the rest of us a chance ... ;)

I need to add another comment after looking at others. I live in a garden-style apartment, small, on the ground floor, and am very conscious of all my consumption decisions. I am not the stereotypical spoiled American (although I am a bit chubby, truth be told). One needn't be packed in like an ant-hill in a large city to cut down on one's carbon footprint. I have the luxury of public transportation and a thriving community while still being able to have trees outside my window.

I could just see my old boxer digging up the roof gardens, lol!

Having been screwed over with two "just needs some TLC" money-pitts, I am in heaven renting again. Perhaps we pay a little more per month than a modest mortgage, but gone are the horrible surprises like dried up wells, septic-system implosions, electrical problems, etc., etc., that cost an arm and a leg when you can least afford them. When my husband talks about buying again, I cringe. Some people just aren't meant to be homeowners. It's not an indictment, but a mere fact. The apartments where I currently live are so pleasant that couples often stay here for 15-20 YEARS! I don't blame them. When you get older, you just don't have it in you to keep up with a homestead and condos can be an iffy investment these days, with the fluctuating maintenance fees...

So many terrific ideas in such a small space! And so stylish as well. Great job!

I'm not a college kid or a divorced man, but I love Ikea and I love both of these videos. Thanks for sharing!

I adore this trend. I have no children, but it all looks so storybook grand. Just imagine walking into someone's house and feeling like you've walked into your favorite children's story! I've always fancied owls, but how cute are those little hedgehogs!

I keep my makeup in clear acrylic trays from Bed, Bath & Beyond in the spacious drawer of my vanity. I think it's barbaric to have to lean over a sink to apply makeup. Don't say you don't have the space, either. I've seen small vanities worked into travel trailers. There's always room for good grooming, sweeties!

Ah, a breath of fresh air!

White noise from my air purifier, a very puffy comforter, a dumb stuffed bulldog from Ikea (it's really soft), and celtic music. If I'm having a really difficult night, I might need to give myself a Reiki treatment, and use my lavender pillow (although I'll wake up with a stuffed-up nose). Focused breathing helps, too. If you are able, regular daytime exercise works like a charm.