A few weeks ago this blog turned seven and I began my eighth year as a blogger. Sitting here, I’m amazed at how much has happened since that first day I sat down at my computer and quietly said hello to the unknown faces of the internet. Who could have imagined it?
Although the internet keeps changing and there are more social media channels than ever, much of what you find here has remained consistent. It’s still my voice—sharing our home, ideas, and thoughts. This space is personal and authentic, and that’s important to me.
Over the years I’ve also had the joy of sharing my daughters’ journeys as they set up their own homes. My girls Kylee and Courtney, and their friend Michaela, have brought fresh eyes and new perspectives that remind me how wonderful it is to notice and celebrate simple home blessings.
This truly is a family blog and a family endeavor. I’m grateful to share this adventure with my daughters and with my husband, who helps behind the scenes with painting, installing light fixtures, and everything else that makes a house feel like home. Our fourteen-year-old son has become a reliable helper too, hauling furniture even when he’d rather it stay put.
Last year, on my sixth anniversary, I wrote that I was working on a real book. I haven’t spoken much about it since, so it might have been forgotten. Back then I was finishing a proposal, and I’ll be honest—it was difficult. I procrastinated, got distracted, and delayed handing it in as long as I could. But gentle encouragement from my agents and friends pushed me forward.
My agents believed I could write a book. Friends like Ann Voskamp and others encouraged me, and that quiet support made a difference. Eventually I completed the proposal and, in January, my agent sent it to a number of publishers. I expected polite rejections. Instead, the responses were positive and quick. Within days there were offers and invitations to discuss next steps. It was both thrilling and terrifying.
One publisher went further and invited my husband and me to meet in person. Sitting in their conference room months ago, surrounded by their team, we listened as each person shared a vision for what my work could become. Their enthusiasm and thoughtful presentation were overwhelming in the best possible way.
They didn’t just like the proposal — they saw a series. Their designers created visuals that helped me imagine my writing beyond the blog, as books people could hold and read. It was surreal to see seven years of blog work translated into a tangible publishing vision. For the first time I saw this little corner of the internet becoming something more than a website.
When they asked if I would consider not one book but eight titles, I nearly fainted. Eight books was a shocking request for someone who had been content with blogging alone. Even my agents were surprised. But their enthusiasm, the care they showed for my brand, and their clear plan for preserving the blog’s heart convinced me to take the leap.
I want to be clear: this isn’t about changing who I am or what this blog stands for. It’s the same heart and voice, simply reaching more people in new ways. I’m still nervous—maybe more so now—but also grateful that talented people with a strong vision have come alongside me to help make these books a reality.
The support from readers means everything. Over the years I’ve received countless messages encouraging me to write a book, and your faith in me helped make this possible. I hesitated for a while about how to share the news that I’ll be writing multiple books, but it felt right to be open with you and to invite you along for the journey.
Balancing blogging with book writing has been a learning process. I worried the blog might suffer, but after several months of adjusting I’ve found a rhythm that allows both to coexist. It’s busy, yes, and sometimes scary, but also wonderfully fulfilling. I remain committed to sharing inspiration for home and life here, and I appreciate your ongoing support as I take on this new chapter.
My first book, Love The Home You Have, is based on the philosophy I’ve written about here for years. It offers encouragement and practical inspiration to find contentment and joy in the home you already live in. I’m excited to share that it will be published in April of next year. After that, three more books will follow in 2015, and I’ll share more details about them soon.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your encouragement has carried me to this point. I’m nervous and sometimes afraid of failing, but I believe it’s worth taking the risk to try. I’m excited to keep sharing this life with you, right here from home.