It only takes a few glances at the bright renovated kitchens and spacious rooms full of new furniture online, for me to feel like I need to do more.

I lose sight of why I prioritize placing things in labeled bins and switching out decor for the seasons when I compare my life to highlight reels.

I moved my daughters into a new house after getting divorced. It was just us the three of us, our Maltipoo, Cuddles, and lots of hurt feelings learning how to navigate our new life.

I set new traditions for us by decorating for every season, celebration, and holiday.

Keeping things organized was my way of staying sane in those “single mama streets”.

I married Jeff in 2017 and moved again.

Organization and seasonal decorating were instrumental in creating a welcoming atmosphere for our blended family.

Holidays pose their own challenges in a blended family with young adults who have varying schedules and commitments with their respective bio families.

Jeff and I started a new tradition of going to see Christmas lights as a family on a weeknight that does not clash with anything else. Last year, we went to the Winter Wonder Lights display at the Greensboro Nature Science Center.  It rained and was freezing.  Since it was so hard to get us all in one place at the same time, we decided to forgo a raincheck and make the best of it.

Soooooo not a Hallmark movie family Christmas celebration and the lighting made the picture not “Instagram worthy”.

The “need to do more” narrative to meet social media’s measure of perfection is FAKE.

Creating peace in our homes where our families can rest, rejuvenate, and celebrate  is REAL.

Here are a few quick, easy, and cost effective ways to decorate for Valentine’s Day:

Add a few pops of red or pink.

I bet you have some red or pink things around your house you can repurpose as Valentine’s Décor. Pillows, mugs, florals or candles could all be used.  Your options are unlimited!