I voted absentee in person some time ago, because I was an election officer in the Central Absentee Precinct (CAP), processing absentee ballots that are mailed in. Ballots received by mail need the voter's signature and witness signature (witness that the person who is supposed to vote that ballot is that person, not witnessing the vote). Missing either is what is known in my state as a material omission. and is cause for rejecting the ballot. It's sad that folks who have taken the time to apply for an absentee ballot and actually voted and returned their ballot in time, still didn't get their vote to count because they neglected to follow the instructions. Each year that I work in the CAP I discover some problems that could be avoided if people were more informed about their rights and the process. For one example, the Post Office does not forward mail from the Office of Elections, so, for example, if you are a student away at school and you have your mail forwarded from your home address to your school address, and you have your absentee ballot sent to your home address (maybe at the time you apply you don't know your address at school), you'll never get the absentee ballot; it will be marked as undeliverable by the Post Office and returned to the Office of Elections. The easy fix for this would be to note on the absentee ballot application that the Post Office will not forward absentee ballots. But does the ballot application say so? No.

Consider width as it’s important given the small space and no arms to make it easier to get on/off (and less need to be moving chair as often on your wood flooring). A back is more comfy if people will be sitting for any length of time and safer for younger children. In regards to color/style, I could see a wood and black combination. Although not light, I think it’s important to tie in well with your kitchen‘s style and flooring and also connect with hallway’s flooring, for a smooth visual transition. Well priced and see reviews. https://www.target.com/p/ceylon-woven-counter-height-barstool-black-black-opalhouse-8482/-/A-82267500?epik=dj0yJnU9YVpCZ2JWMHY2dlBYajR6eHhIeW9XcWdHQkxiOFFDd1kmcD0wJm49aWx4OG9ZWnRqdlZpQ24xN3VJOVg2ZyZ0PUFBQUFBR1FQT29j&preselect=82057808

I still prefer the arched one (first one in this latest set of pics) because it balances the horiz/vert lines of your fireplace and wainscoting. But the original #1 that everyone likes has some curve to it, too, and looks nice, as well, to me with the style of the room. Your "random pretty fireplace" is gorgeous, but I think it's the color saturation in the room that makes that a beautiful photo. But the detail on that curve of the insert would really complement the detail of your mantel. You can't go wrong--except for the modern ones.

Jilly, love your scrimshaw piece. I had the funniest coincidence the other day. A friend of mine remarried a widower. She moved into his home and, years later, is still living with much of the deceased wife's decor and even some personal items! It is very ticklish because of the children involved. Anyway, she sometimes gripes about it and was telling me that she still had unused purses and shoes she was trying to get rid of. Then she said "she collected these Nantucket purses, you know?" She has "7 or 8" of them and would be happy to lend me one. That's crazy. Meanwhile I rented the Staud one for $24 LOL! And I am keeping an eye out for a Nantucket one just the same.