Thankyou all so very much.
Thankyou September Pixie for the link to the other thread - you know, I searched the forum for a thread like that before posting this one but couldn't find it - so that was excellent.
Nevada - that is exactly how I feel, my beliefs don't easily fit into any single faith so I tend to learn and adopt from many areas, embracing those which make sense to me and well, work!
Everyone has made some very valid points and I will take them all on board. I would love to see images of other peoples 'special places', I particularly liked the images which were posted on the other thread, it help you to see that everyone chooses differently and an altar becomes unique to the individual.
My problem (well, its not such a problem really) is that I don't have anywhere in particular that I feel comfortable to meditate other than our lounge! I simply can't have a permanent altar in there since there simply isn't anywhere to establish one. We don't have a mantle piece (hole in the wall fire) and the book shelf is full+++!
The idea I have been working on, which tarotbear hints at with the Port-a-witch (LOL I love that phrase) is to buy or make a small cabinet with two doors and a couple of shelves inside to store my precious things. When I want to meditate or use the altar, I can get this little cabinet out, cover the top with a cloth and the items I feel are most appropriate for the time and use it - well, anywhere! It won't interfere with my family or their use of our home and it will be a small & sacred object in its own right.
So far my special objects for the Altar are my favourite tarot deck, a candle, an incence burner, a shell and a crystal. As you all say, keep it simple - I dare say I'm doing just that.
I promise, when I manage to find my little cabinet, I will post a photo of it to show you all.
Thankyou again so much and please do keep posting your thoughts.