I still remember the first time I painted our living room while my two kids, ages 8 and 11, built forts from couch cushions and traced crayon maps of the neighborhood. Mornings start with backpacks thumping on the stairs and a neighbor waving from their porch as we juggle lunches and permission slips. Those small routines made me crave a home that feels restful but lived-in, a place where muddy shoes and ballet slippers both belong. When I need fresh decorating inspiration between school runs, I flip through online mood boards and even saved a helpful guide on color harmony…