my philosophy on home life

Let me begin by saying I've read so many books that have influenced how I view my home, and my role at home, and someday I'll share them. Just know I didn't start out this way.

I tend to be a bit more formal than my peers. I do live in a rural area in the southern U.S., so maybe other areas of the country or even state are different. But for the most part, I prefer a tidy home, generally company-ready at all times.

Our rooms are used for their intent. For example, we don't eat in the living room (unless it's family movie night), but at the table, all together, seated, until everyone is done. We sleep in our bedrooms. Baby plays in the playroom (no toys in his bedroom).

Granted, I know this is much easier for me than for others, as baby is an only child, and he's 8, and I'm home a lot to ensure this happens. But I do think it's possible for everyone to elevate their home lives even just one notch above what they currently are.

I get dressed every day and at least try to make my face and hair presentable. So does baby. Even though we homeschool, and may not go anywhere that day, and pajamas are more comfortable. Get up, dress up, show up.

We still have Jake's leather bachelor sofas because they still work, but I'm working on a plan to save up so I can replace them with something slightly more formal. I want guests to feel comfortable, and everyone wants to lay on the couch every once in a while, but I also want to subtly remind myself and my family that the living room is for living, and bedrooms are for lounging. And when I say more formal, I mean fancy looking from Ikea. Only one person at our house has a real job.

I cook most of our lunches and suppers, and we always eat on real plates. Using cloth napkins. I like to have pleasant aromas, whether from essential oil diffusers or candles. I hate overhead lighting so we use lamps. And often have music playing in the background.

I've adopted what I think (based on what I've read) is a slightly more European philosophy of home: use your best, make the informal formal, elevate the everyday, always be presentable. Life is an art, too, you know.

Do you have a philosophy on home life? Would you like to be more formal? Or does this all sound too uppity for your taste? I'd love to hear your thoughts.