I think it is always true, even when people fake their homes making them apparently "beautiful" but that kind of beauty would probably reflect their vanity anyway...

It sounds like your current kitchen with broken floor tiles, cramped layout, lacking of cupboard space presents to the world a true reflection of your current inner self. something went terribly wrong when you "sold up 300 miles away" and your body rebelled. Something was terribly messed up inside your inner self, Annie. It sounds like it had to go downhill until you got to the point of broken tiles and freezing winters. They say, "It has to get worse before it gets better." Sure enough, something ought to be mended from within. It is easier said than done. I'm a total mess myself. I won't knock on your door, Annie, until I sort myself out. Hope you will be alright by then. With your dear husband Roger by your side :-)