OctaviaEstella's Profile

Display Name: OctaviaEstella
Member Since: 10/23/09

Latest Comments...

I think schools are going to be a deciding factor. I know if people want to have kids in Chicago and want them to get a decent education, they either have to be upper middle class enough to afford private and/or a ritzy neighborhood or move.


Will Gen Y Ever Move to the Suburbs? The Wall Street Journal
5/17/13 12:09 PM

I think there's something to be said for "happiness" being where your loved ones are. It makes me sad that all my family and friends are so transient now - if we get together a few times a decade, we're lucky. But I moved all the time as a kid, so I'm kind of over it.


Where-To-Live Quizzes: Have You Taken One? Did You Follow Its Advice?
4/10/13 10:55 AM

I've noticed there is a major dearth of super basic plant/gardening instruction for beginners. All the books and websites I've ever come across seem to assume you already know what you're doing to some degree. I guess it's a function of there being so many variables involved. I would like to see an app where you enter your zone, plant type preference, shade level, etc. and it spits out what you should plant, when and how to take care of it, then guides you along the way. I can't believe nobody's come up with it yet. While we're at it, someone should start a sort of mini-landscaping business for apartment dwellers where they just come in, plant you some beautiful window boxes or whatever and leave you instructions for their care.


Is a Green Thumb Something You Can Learn?
4/10/13 10:45 AM

Mine is terribly exciting but it needs to be done. Some of the electrical wiring in our dining room and bathroom has been broken for years now. I'm finally going to call someone and have them fix it so our sconces and bathroom fan work again. I hope that qualifies as a project.


Day 5: Select One Project from Your List to Complete this Month Apartment Therapy January Cure
1/8/13 6:15 PM

Mine is terribly exciting but it needs to be done. Some of the electrical wiring in our dining room and bathroom has been broken for years now. I'm finally going to call someone and have them fix it so our sconces and bathroom fan work again. I hope that qualifies as a project.


Day 5: Select One Project from Your List to Complete this Month Apartment Therapy January Cure
1/8/13 6:15 PM

We are car-free but use a car sharing service. Every time we have the car for a whole we always end up doing a huge Target run.


Car For a Day: What Would You Do?
1/7/13 3:30 PM

I have to say these are my favorite kinds of Apartment Therapy posts. The ones everyone can use, not just those with enough money.


A Year of Mindful Living Best of 2012
1/1/13 11:53 AM

The irony for me is that "taking ten minutes out" or "setting a purpose for the day" always end up seeming like just one more thing on the to-do list.


Tips for Creating a Mindful Home
12/18/12 1:58 PM

Has anyone tried that thing in Facebook where you can sell to your friends? Does that still exist?


Do You Believe in Craigslist Karma?
12/18/12 1:53 PM

On Hunters: Don't believe the hype. I bought some a couple years ago, used them as needed for commuting and they developed holes in the soles about a year ago. They were nice while they lasted but not at all worth the price. Thanks to the commenters who suggested Sperry and LL Bean as alternatives. I will check them out.


Gifts for the Commuter APARTMENT THERAPY GIFT GUIDE 2012
12/18/12 1:34 PM

Aww. I grew up in Florida and these pictures make me homesick. I love your subtropical jungle-esque garden and the way you've arranged you art. The bright colors and florals look great against the light interior. It's a lot fresher than the typical pastel Florida decor. The overall effect is cheerful and cozy. By the way, it makes me really happy to see people of all ages on Apartment Therapy!


Cory's Key West Cottage Small Cool Contest
4/19/12 11:57 AM