We Are Family
C


OLOR ME MOM! And, WOW, how my life changed in a heartbeat! People always say “get ready” but I didn't really understand until it happened to me...then everything turned upside down! Priorities shift. No matter how many books you read, or experts you consult, you don't really know what it is to be a mom until you become one. And, you should watch what you say! I can't tell you how many times I said to myself, "I would never do that" but you never know till you walk in those shoes. So, no judgements! Great moms get on-the-job training and learn with their little ones. In fact, my first summer with my first child in our Bridgehampton Summer Home was one big practical learning experience! 

For example, you cannot put white linen on your couch if it cannot come off and be cleaned. While this may sound like an “of course” moment, there is more. I know now (and I didn't know then) if you are going to commit to the white, you must be willing to buy two covers so that while one is out being cleaned, your sofa still has an outfit! Storage becomes a priority. You always need somewhere to put the stuff! Kids require so much of it —the basics, the toys, the gear — their stuff will fill up your space in no time at all. For this reason, I am all about function and form: find places to stow stuff in or under quickly. Turn chaos into order without going crazy; get some "undercover containers"! 

Our Hamptons home is a beach house and I wanted it to feel like a beach house... a place for play. I think it a sin to create a beach house where everyone (including the kids) can't let loose and eat popsicles! I cannot tell you how many times we pulled up stools, poofs, and pleather covered chairs to eat a clam bake on the lucite table in the family room. Keep it casual but clutter free. And always keep it personal. Once I put the IKEA storage under the Damien Hirst, it made a world of difference in our clutter room—scratch that, family room! Because the number one priority is to enjoy the people and places you love!