Reading is a big part of my nesting. As a result, I participate in several book clubs. Stephanie’s July selection is Rules For Visiting by Jessica Francis Kane. I found myself enjoyably racing through it. I highly recommend it – at least check it out! Sometimes I share “seen elsewhere” quotes, bumper stickers, and license plate messages. Today, I’m excited to share more of Kane’s book.
Rules for Visiting, ©2019, includes general and specific references to nesting and the creation of home. Proving that these topics are on the minds of many of us of late. My favorite nesting-related quotes from her book follow.
On writing a thank you note after a visit, Kane’s character May says: “I used my best stationery, creamy white, by which I mean if a tree is going to be made into paper, the paper should be high quality.” Oh, how I agree. That’s why NestingCards© are printed on brilliant, pearlized white card stock and our images are fine-art quality.
The Nesting chapter (that’s really the chapter title!) is in the middle of the book. This use of nesting means divorcing parents are creating a stable home for the child by taking turns staying at the family house, so the child doesn’t have to move. Interesting application of “nesting” – it works.
The House Bound chapter talks about home, shelter, home/sheltering magazines. Page 163 says: “You have to ignore the fact that a house during most of mankind’s time on earth was a necessity, not a display case of prized personal possessions and decorating prowess.” This is something upon which to reflect!
One of the Postcards chapters introduces Hestia – goddess of family and home. My Greek mythology is so rusty, I’d forgotten about Hestia. She is the virgin goddess of domesticity, family, the home, and the state – plenty is on her plate! Hestia means “hearth, fireplace, altar.” She reminds us that at home and in the community, it is important to keep a hearth fire burning as a showing of care for others and their well-being.
Home is a place to be made – it doesn’t just happen. And “…a home does tell a story – in fact, it should – because the question of what you want to own is closely related to how you want to live.”
How do you want to live?
What are your possessions saying about you?
Nesting is about the objects and experiences that create a sense of home. Without home, it is difficult to maintain health, find joy, or to be productive. Enjoy the Nesting series of blogs on your search for and creation of a deep sense of home. –Jana
Jana Kemp
