My Stay-at-Home Corner

It’s November, and honestly, the weather makes me want to stay tucked inside rather than go anywhere. Having a cozy, organized space at home feels like my little escape from the chaos of work and everything else going on outside. I love sitting in my room with music playing, just enjoying the calm. I’m definitely one of those people who feels happiest in a clean, uncluttered space, so I thought I’d share what I’ve put together in what I call my “stay-at-home corner.”

I wanted a spot just for my books, crafts, and stationery, so I got myself a simple bookshelf that was easy to assemble. I set it up so everything has its place—fiction on one shelf, non-fiction on another, and the bottom shelves for puzzles and crafts. It makes me feel so much more at ease when things are easy to find and look neat.

Fiction I’ve Loved

  • Harry Potter interactive illustrated series (the first three come as a bundle, the fourth is separate)
  • The Guest List by Lucy Foley – quick, entertaining read
  • Disney Villains by Serena Valentino – I only have the Hades one so far, but I want the whole set
  • The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab – a gift from my sister that I really enjoyed
  • Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo – I liked this duology more than the Shadow and Bone trilogy
  • Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi – a powerful graphic novel
  • Maus by Art Spiegelman – another unforgettable graphic novel
  • Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe – I first read it on Webtoon and can’t wait to collect the graphic novels

Non-Fiction That Stuck With Me

  • Come Home to Yourself by Deja Rae – comforting poems I leaned on during a breakup
  • The Way Forward by Yung Pueblo – recommended by my counselor, and such a grounding read
  • Rising Strong by Brené Brown – another counselor suggestion that really resonated
  • Healing Through Words by Rupi Kaur – more of a workbook, perfect for jotting down thoughts

Puzzles That Keep Me Busy

  • Magic Puzzle Company – high quality and they even have a surprise inside
  • Odd Pieces – puzzles that don’t turn out exactly how you expect
  • Day at the Festival – fun because you get to guess band names
  • Aquarius Waldo – I’m obsessed with Waldo, so this was a must
  • Lucky Cat – not the best quality, but still fun (I actually did this one with my ex, so it’s a funny memory. Does anyone else collect hobbies from partners?)

Even though I love being outside and spending time with friends, this little corner makes me feel safe, warm, and welcome in my own space. I’ve realized that being alone doesn’t have to mean being lonely. Sure, the feeling sneaks in sometimes, but having hobbies helps. And when I’m working on a puzzle, I completely lose track of time—especially with Buffy playing in the background and a cup of tea in hand. Honestly, the day just disappears in the best way.