how to have a smart home

No, we're not talking about a creepy house that talks to you and makes your breakfast like that old school Disney channel movie. I mean this short, cute article in USA weekend.

In brief, here's their list of what your home needs to be a non-threatening, learning environment.

1. world map
2. dictionary - not the kind on your Mac's dashboard
3. table for jigsaw puzzles
4. brain-boosting library - including but not limited to crosswords, mazes and Sudoku
5. domino set
6. special reading spot

I was inspired by most of those - especially since I had just conquered that issue's Sudoku on the back page - but the most gripping one to me was the special reading spot.

I love so much the idea of having a place especially designated for being cozy and quiet. If there happens to be a book along for the journey, that's fine, but I mostly just want to have a spot where I can curl up and relax.

Also, when I googled "create a reading nook", I was bombarded with beautiful ideas. I think I'm a sucker for anything that has the term "nook" in it. Here are some finds:

[source]

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So I've learned from my extensive research that two things are important for the reading nook.

1. natural light

2. and a seriously comfy chair.

Not an upright victorian arm chair, not something made out of trendy chic plastic, not one with no arms. Let's be real. Give me a papasan chair (above) or a freaking chaise lounger. I want my book readin' to naturally fade into nap takin'. 

Thanks USA Weekend for your well-meant intentions of making my home smarter. I think I'm taking in in the wrong direction... :)