come, sit by me

you can sit wherever you like, but big red is the most comfy. he's a gentle giant, that couch. clunky and unwieldy, sure, but still a sweet spot to relax. i can move those oafy pillows, but they do make for added coziness, i find. so welcoming and protective, like four enormous marshmallows just waiting for you to drop into their embrace. try them. they’re softer than they look, so you can nestle into them quite nicely. lean back and let yourself deflate into them until it feels just right. tuck one of those pillows under your arm, or hold it close to your chest. they may look goofy and awkward, but they can be very comforting, too.

if you’re feeling chilled, you can use the crocheted blanket. i know it looks a little rough around the edges, but that’s just because it’s given out a lot of love over many years. it’ll drape over you for an afternoon nap, or tuck under your chin to keep you company for a late-night movie, or just wait nearby to warm you when you’re feeling under the weather. it may seem like it’s unraveling a bit here and there, but i think those flaws give it charm. they say, “i may not be perfect, but i get the job done.” the blanket isn’t fancy or expensive, but it’s handmade and original and you won’t find another one like anywhere.

did you want to put your feet up? you can go ahead, that’s what the coffee table is there for. its sturdy legs and cool surface can hold just about any weight you might need to rest on it, and it’s not going to budge or buckle. it’s there to support you. and don’t worry about your socks, they’re fine.

would it be okay if i turned on the christmas lights? they’re so cheerful and pretty, and their dreamy glow makes the whole room feel special in some way i can’t really explain except to show you. i know it might be silly to keep them on instead of a lamp or two, but there’s something quietly magical about the light they cast. it feels safe, and gentle, and filled with hope. soothing and calm. like no problem can be quite as severe, no sadness can be quite as dark, and no pain can be quite as sharp when lit by this cascade of tiny, multicoloured luminescent bulbs. here, watch.

see? so lovely.

do you mind if i sit next to you? there’s enough space if we both make a little room. you can have the pillows and the blanket and the coffee table all to yourself, i promise. we can just unwind on big red, and listen to the street outside, and look at the twinkly lights together for a while.

come, sit by me. and tell me about your day.