via Historical Concepts
It’s been well over a decade since we moved out of our small English-style cottage in the Eastmoreland neighborhood of Portland, Oregon. Time has a way of carrying memories forward, and I still think fondly of that house. It sat on a tree-lined street full of charming older homes. Ours was one of the smaller houses on the block, but I loved living there. My sister still lives nearby, so I visit the area from time to time.
I have many happy memories from that little cottage. It wasn’t perfect, but so many wonderful moments happened there. It’s the house where we brought our son home. For years I watched his cousin—five weeks older than him—during the day for my sister, and the four kids and I were cozy as could be in that small home.
At the time, my parents lived only a few blocks away. I enjoyed walking to my mom’s house while pushing a double stroller, with my girls riding their bikes just ahead of us. Our daughters held lemonade stands and we joined in neighborhood block parties every summer. Those simple traditions made the neighborhood feel like family.
Our little cottage
The photo above is of the actual house I’m describing here.
The small bedroom shown isn’t mine, but it’s a good representation. Isn’t it charming?
We put our girls together in what served as the “master” bedroom—the largest of the three bedrooms—and used a tiny main-floor bedroom for ourselves. That room was so small we had to place the bed on the diagonal and convert the hallway linen closet into a makeshift closet for my husband. It could feel cramped, and that was frustrating at times, but I loved that bedroom. It felt cozy and romantic, just like the rest of the house.
Over the years we lived in three other small, older houses around Portland that I adored as well. I miss them all. Thinking back fills me with the same warm feelings I had when we made that small cottage our home.
If you’re inspired, browse the bedroom selections in the images below to find pieces that capture this cozy, timeless style.
Have you ever lived in a house that felt extra cozy and dear to you? Share a few favorite house memories in the comments!
Happy Valentine’s Day, lovelies.
Art from my New York Times bestselling book Love the Home You Have
(downloadable art quotes are available through the book)
If you haven’t read the book, consider treating yourself to a copy for Valentine’s Day—may it offer encouragement and comfort.