"Private Office"

Our house is about 100 years old and has beautiful character - hardwood floors, chestnut trim around every window and doorway, wooden pillars and banister. We are also grateful for the full walk-up attic with a wood floor. It has been GREAT storage space over the years for my dozens of rubbermaid bins. We considered finishing the space to make another livable room, but the roof pitch is too steep and we have already had too many near concussions while "visiting" the attic.

Recently, I have been "cleaning house" and getting rid of LOTS of un-needed "stuff". It has felt SO good to simplify life a bit (although a simple life is never possible with 5 little ones around). Needless to say, some space has been created in the attic, where the roof is high enough for 4-footers and we decided (per my dad's idea) to put a small desk for each of the girls up there. My kids share EVERYTHING, including underwear. They've tried to create their own "space", but when there is a shortage of that already, it all tends to bleed together. Plus, little brothers like to infringe on space and possessions not belonging to them. Little brothers aren't allowed in the attic.

Wow. I never would have guessed the measure of delight this new "girls only" space has brought to them! Now, remember, it is an attic and does get sweltering on hot days. We've already had to tell them (as we observed their bright pink cheeks and sweaty heads) on occassion that they must come down because it is too hot. Grace posted a sign on the door "Girls Private Office". They are up there as I write, creating cards for Father's Day while the boys nap, one of them occupying the girls' bedroom (yes, they even share beds). Their own desk and chair, complete with their own drawers and storage......I'm so happy for them!

Now, if I could only find a place for my own private office.... I'd even take a private bathroom at this point in life....