On the importance of being honest

When I met Mark a lifetime ago he had had his apartment decorated by a friend. It was all African print, darkish colours and hessian type curtains. I hated it. But walking into his home for the very first time I told him I thought it was stunning.

A year later we were married and choosing things for our new house together.  He immediately went for the African prints, the earth tones, dark cushions and statues. I said nothing as he packed the items into the trolley.  Inside I wept a little.  I'm more the french provencal kinda girl and love prettiness. This was definitely not the look I wanted but I would compromise.  A lot.

Over the years I've brought in touches of me with scatter cushions, linen and ornaments but the house has always kept the africaness because that's what Mark likes.

Until I found out otherwise recently.

I was asked by the deputy editor of House & Leisure if they could feature me and my business in the magazine.  I immediately agreed and rushed home to tell Mark the good news. Then she asked me if they could do it at our house and the excitement came to a screeching halt.

"But why?" Asked Mark.

"Because I hate our house. " I said.

"What? The house is decorated exactly how you wanted it!" Says slightly aghast husband.

"No it's not. It's decorated how you like it. " I say.

"I don't like this at all but you said you love it." He says.

"When, pray tell, did I say I love it?" I ask.

"The first time you visited me at my townhouse.  You walked in and oooohed and aaaaaahed Bout the decor. " Says Mark.

"I was being polite. I hated it!"

2014 will see some redecorating going on in Casa de la Connor. Not for H&L.  For me. For us.