When things are tough and it’s hard to keep going, it’s good to have a happy place, a place where you can find peace. For me, that’s my apartment. I love my little haven, away from the noise, away from the pollution, away from the stuff that brings me down. At home, it’s just the way I like it.
My apartment is comfortable. It’s large enough to not feel cramped, but small enough to be cozy and warm. I finally have a couch that’s comfy and large enough to seat many people (game nights!). I have space to display my artifacts that I collect on my travels without it looking cluttered. When I look at these sculptures, paintings, and creative pieces, I’m reminded that I lead a very blessed life. I get to do what I’ve always wanted to do- travel the world!
My kitchen, although small, is just right for me. I have everything I need to cook and have even made enough food to serve over 20 people in my tiny kitchen. It’s (nearly) always clean, thanks to my wonderful ayi who comes 4 days a week to keep me organized. I told you I had a blessed life! I love my tea station, where I have a wide variety of tea to choose from. A cuppa tea in the evening is all I need to chill. Well, that and a good book or an episode of Scandal (my recent obsession- thanks Michelle!).
Having an extra bedroom means room for guests, a desk to do my work (although I tend to work on the couch lately), and more closet space (I have way too many clothes!). I love having a second bedroom, as it helps me not to feel cramped.
I love having fresh flowers and plants in my house- it brings life and a touch of green. Plants make me smile, and I’m proud to say that I have kept almost all of my plants alive since moving in last August. This is a huge accomplishment for me! 🙂
Lastly, I love my bedroom! It’s such a comforting place, where I am surrounded by plants, artwork, and pictures I love. I love my window seat and view of Shanghai. I love my comfortable bed- thank you IKEA mattress pad! I love my art wall. I love that I go to bed and wake up each day looking at my OLW from last year- Balance (thanks Andrew for the art!). It’s a daily reminder to live a balanced life. I certainly need that reminder more lately.
I love that when I’ve had a tough day, when the world has beaten me down, I can come home and be surrounded by things I love that make me happy.
my heart is happiest when i travel. read. write. connect. 
I love the peek into your apartment! Having a place that restores your energy for daily living is vital.
You are exactly right Elsie! Gotta recharge!
I have also traveled the world and love being at home. My happy place at home is on the sofa, with a dog on either side. Pure bliss.
Exactly! No place like home! 🙂
I’m always more content when my house is in good order. I’ve come to learn to be more content in my house regardless…because the good order is rarely happening lately!
content…that’s the word I was looking for earlier!
Wow! Your apartment is beautiful. I love that you included pictures so we could get a nice visual of your happy place! 🙂
Thank you! 🙂 I’m a visual learner…so I figured that would help.
That’s what home should be! And I agree .. I love to travel, but it’s always so nice to be home. Your place looks (and feels) lovely!
You have to have a balance between travel and home! And thanks…:)
Your happy place made me smile! A lovely space!
Thanks! 🙂
I love your apartment! Look at that window seat! I think apartments in China can be really great. How is your bed?
When I was teaching in Beijing I had a fabulous apartment, leather couch, great ayi, beautiful new everything, BUT my bed was hard as a rock. I had a pad, but it wasn’t good enough because I was always afraid of bruising myself if I sat down too quickly. haha
Thanks! 🙂 My bed WAS hard as a rock when I first moved in. After having a really soft bed for the last 3 years (I was blessed I think), I had to do something. So, I bought the thickest, most expensive mattress pad IKEA had. Problem solved! It’s actually really comfy now. Set me back nearly 3000RMB though. Sleep is expensive!
Loved seeing the peek into your apartment. I felt like I was watching the still life version of “House Hunters International,” which is one of my favorite late night shows. 🙂
Haha…that’s funny! Glad I could give you a glimpse of Shanghai living!
Your place is lovely! I liked peeking out the window to see all those buildings. 🙂
Thanks! Shanghai is a concrete jungle!
Loved, loved getting a view of your apartment! Having a place of refuge is so important! I also think that I now need a tea station:-)
Yes you do! I love mine. 🙂
It’s wonderful when your happy place is your home. Thanks for taking us in yours. I can see why it means so much to you!
Your home is beautiful! I loved taking the tour and I love to see hear and see how others live. 🙂
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