No place like it

Those of you who visit here regularly will be aware that there's been a lot of talk about home comforts recently, what with my mum returning home after being in hospital.

It got me thinking about what makes a home a home. And wondering, what are the little things that make our homes uniquely ours? The things you look forward to returning to when you've been away (even if it's a wonderful holiday you've been on). What are 'home comforts'?

I was at playgroup with Joe the other day and overheard two mums discussing furniture - specifically 'Barcelona' chairs, an iconic (therefore expensive) modern design which I must admit are not something I'd be particularly interested in owning. Sleek minimalism isn't my thing at all. I prefer things to have a story and secondhand finds - along with all their knocks and scratches - are far more interesting to me. Mismatched items, things which have been painted and re-painted and loved before by others.

But home comforts are about more than interior design and 'things'. Yes, it's all about being surrounded by objects you treasure and which remind you of good times and family and friends. I love books and bringing nature indoors, changing things with the seasons. I also appreciate handmade things: ceramics, garlands, drawings.

But a big part of being 'home' is knowing you can do what you like, when you like. It's about familiarity and comfort. Knowing what's in the cupboards. Having things to hand: knitting, teabags, biscuits. Your favourite cup. The vegetable knife you like using because it fits in your hand just right.

It's also about feeling safe. And knowing that once the front door's closed for the evening you have to venture no further. You can lounge around in woolly tights and an oversized, shapeless jumper. If the phone rings you can choose whether to answer it or not.

Some people find that pets make a home. I would agree with that to an extent but we're currently pet-free (preferring cats) - Joe's into tail-pulling at the moment so we'll give it a while yet. One day I'd like a few chickens and another moggy.

Once upon a time, I lived in a really beautiful house. My friend described it to others as being 'like something from a magazine'. It was: white throughout, a glamorous kitchen overlooking the woods, painted floors, more rooms than were needed. I was miserable there. I was in an unhappy situation so I moved out - and eventually ended up here. Now that really felt like a home.

I've never understood the concept you hear on so many TV homes shows: people saying they want their home to look and feel like a hotel. Beige. Impersonal. I don't get it.

The fact is, anywhere can be made into a home. It's about surrounding yourself with things you love, which have meaning. It's about feeling comfortable, physically and mentally. Home is something you can take with you because it's unique to each and every one of us.

And to repeat the oft-used (but so very true) sentiment: there is no place like it. Sometimes it takes being away to realise and appreciate that.