Lockdown: At Home - Caitlin

What’s your name and what do you do?

I’m Caitlin, I sell plants at Coffee and Cactus.

Who lives in your home?

My husband Cormac and I have lived in our terrace off the Lisburn Road for about seven years. It’s two bedroom but we often have Australian relatives staying with us. Last year we had family with us for about six months in total.

How would you describe your home?

It’s definitely full of memories. I love travel and collect pieces from all over the world. In this photo, there are priceless items such as a beautiful vase made by my step dad who passed away at Christmas, a foam finger from my first ever Major League Baseball game (obsessed) and a hand painted picture of my favourite place in the world, a little island off the coast of WA. My home is just full of memories, nothing is wasteful or insignificant to me; a snapshot of my life. 

What have you enjoyed about your home during the lockdown?

The first few weeks were a nightmare for me. I was up to all hours online researching, optimising the website, taking online short courses, listening to business podcasts and just worrying around the clock. The past four or so weeks, I have calmed down for sure. I sit on my green sofa in my bay window most days working away, ordering plants, making videos and waving as the neighbours pass by. I must say I’ve enjoyed that, getting to know the neighbours.

Is there a DIY job you've got round to that you're proud of?

OMG yes! I cleaned out all of my cupboards and put everything in those Hay crates you guys sell. I even labelled them so now I have crates for electrics, crafts, gift voucher, blank cards - you name it - I now know exactly where it is!

If you could change anything about your home, what would it be?

We don’t have any outdoor space which is a bummer in this weather and being in lock down but I know we’re lucky to have a lovely home so I can live happily with that.

What’s the most recent thing you’ve bought for your home?

Well, Im always stocking up on pot plants, but that feels a wee bit like work so, I think I’ll go with a Menu Lamp. We’ve needed a new lamp for ages, can’t have enough in my opinion and I am happy to save up and buy something I love. It will go with us wherever we go.

What’s been your go-to meal in the last few weeks?

I have a pasta maker so I’ve been making pasta with a mushroom and butter sauce. Simple and delicious!

Is there anything you’ve started to do during lockdown that you’d like to continue as ‘normality’ resumes?

I started the couch to 5k. Im on week five. I’ve always wanted to be a cool runner. You know, wicked leggings, an awesome pair of nikes - one of those people that jogs on the spot at the lights whilst waiting for them to change. I want that to be me. I’m not far away.