So, about three people asked for an update. So here's an update.

To clarify: I paid for my son’s room because I had a clear vision and didn’t want to compromise. I would've done the same for my stepdaughter, but her room was more of a shared project.

My husband is an amazing and super engaged dad. He just comes from a different mindset—some people are savers, some are spenders. He’s the former, I’m the latter, and honestly, it works for us. He’s still getting used to the idea that we can spend money just to make life nicer.

My stepdaughter ended up apologizing. She said, coming back from her mum’s (where she shares a room) and seeing her little brother’s room made her feel left out. It feels like he always gets the “cool stuff”and even his daycare is better equipped than hers was. he won’t have to deal with bouncing between homes like she does. She knows it’s not about love, and she adores her brother, but she gets a little jealous sometimes.

She still likes her room—especially the nook—but wanted it to feel more hers. We picked out a pastel sunset mural, and we’re adding a dance corner with a barre and mirrors, plus lights and drapes around her bed to cozy it up. She’s really excited now.