Falling In Love With My Imperfectly Outdated Kitchen Again

Every summer I end up asking Larry, "What are we going to do about our kitchen?! The floor needs replacing, the cabinets and back splash are outdated, the appliances aren't going to last much longer (and yet they are)," and so the familiar conversation goes on. He replies with something like "Well, you're the designer. Treat me like a client and show me some options." So this year I did exactly that. I took measurements and created three-dimensional drawings for every possible option I could think of. We looked at them together, tossed around more ideas, and then I went back to do more drawings. ​

We even went as far as to get some quotes. The cost of new cabinets will be approximately $26k. Then there will be the cost of appliances, flooring, back splash tile, counter top, and labor. Sigh. "Hmmmmmm...we really want to start traveling to Europe in the fall." "We need a new roof." " I want to replace the front porch and walkway." "The deck needs to be replaced." And so the circular conversation continues and from the way it looks now, it will be repeated again next summer. 

As I predicted, one appliance finally did give out on us recently....the coffee pot. Yep, the smallest, most inexpensive appliance that doesn't actually warrant a kitchen renovation. This was such a gift in disguise because it reminded me of the power of decorating. 

We haven't been drinking as much coffee as we once did so I decided to purchase a French press instead of an automatic brew system. Once I saw the empty space on the counter where the coffee pot was, I decided to place my cutting boards there...and then I added a plant in the corner...and then I put the olive oil away...and then I cleaned up the salt and pepper shakers...and then I added fresh flowers....before I knew it, I completely rearranged every accessory in the kitchen. And guess what? I fell in love with our kitchen again. It's imperfect and outdated and I love it! 

The nicks on the floor remind me how many friends and family members have walked on these floors, and the design of the kitchen, the cabinets, tile, and appliances remind me that Larry picked those items out and very intentionally placed them long before we met and those thoughts make me fall in love with him again too. I am in awe that he designed and built this kitchen. 

Is a kitchen renovation in your future? What can you do now to fall in love with your imperfect kitchen?