Navy Momma, I understand your frustration. I am sure you will come up with something you will love. As far as staying with your back to the family, I think pretty much every plan we discussed you had your back to the family most of the cooking and clean up time. I truly think if you go too narrow with the peninsula idea, you will regret it later. I'm sure you are probably sick of looking at my ideas. So I will just post one last one, to address your desire to have the sink by the window (not ideal location for DW, but livable), and to be able to expand the dining table when needed. It doesn't much address the "back towards family" problem, but it does give you one opportunity to stand with your side towards the dining table. It probably does not give you all the counter space you would like either. But the table I included there can expand to about 90" to sit 8. And can stay at 60" for daily 6 people. No one can go down to the basement when table is at 90", but perhaps that won't be an issue. The catch there is to close the entry way to the kitchen from the living room to 48". I am not sure it is a possibility in your space or budget, but I thought I'd give it one last try. ;)

I’d get rid of the euros altogether, they look too tall for the headboard anyway. Can you put the bed on the wall to the right without knocking your head getting into bed? It looks like anyone on the right side currently would already be getting beaned by the ceiling if it’s that low? Can’t tell from the picture but it looks like the other wall is wider, and would give you enough space for larger night tables. Definitely the ones you have now are not the right size or height. This would give you space for large lamps as well, or sconces on adjustable arms above the tables if you prefer them. I’d also replace the comforter/duvet cover if possible to one with some color other than the beige of the walls and rug. Or a print that has some beige in it to tie it together. Right now everything is close to the same color and there is no contrast between light and dark items, so it all kind of runs together. Or a more colorful rug instead.

What would you think of tables painted a color from your beautiful spread? I love the red below, but probably not with your blue drapery or chair cushion. Perhaps something green, which looks like the color of your walls, or blue to coordinate with the drapes? I think the color takes these out of the traditional realm. You could probably find some great tables on CL and paint them whatever color you like.

I am not an expert, but I would suggest that the end tables don't match. Nice bed! Can we see more pictures of the room?