Scroll to the end of the post for a 50% off deal on Love The Home You Have!
***Giveaway is now closed!!!***
Do you see it? That little book on my shelf with my name on it? I wrote a book and it’s finally here in my office. It hasn’t been released yet—March 31 is the big day—but I held it in my hands for the first time yesterday. Honestly, it felt like meeting a child I’ve been waiting to see.
In January 2007 I launched The Inspired Room as a decorating business to help women create homes they love, using what they already have. My focus was never about trends or decorating for show; it was always about how a home feels. I wanted my space to be a sanctuary, a place of comfort and calm, and I wanted to help others find that same peace in their homes.
Improving my home gave me joy, but I didn’t have a big budget for new pieces, nor the time or skill for many DIY projects. I preferred meaningful, authentic touches and simple beauty. In July of that year I started a blog on a whim. The Inspired Room became a place to share the ideas, small changes, and encouragement that make a house feel like home. Over the years I’ve stayed true to that mission.
I never imagined so many of you would follow along, read, and share this journey. Your responses to my stories, ideas, and honest reflections surprised and humbled me. What began as a small corner of the internet turned into a community of readers who returned again and again, inspired to see their homes differently and encouraged to try new things.
Blogging for me became less about pretty photos and more about sharing life as it unfolds—one post at a time. Many of you have stayed through the moves, the slow projects, and the everyday ups and downs as I’ve worked to make this house into a home.
Two years ago, encouraged by your support, I gathered those years of experiences, small but meaningful ideas, and lessons into a book. Love The Home You Have is the result of nearly twenty years of homemaking, shaped across six houses and countless blog posts. It’s the first of eight books and grew from a philosophy I’ve developed over time: that contentment and authenticity are the heart of a lived-in, loved home.
This book holds the message I’m most passionate about: practical encouragement to love the home you have, even when it’s messy, incomplete, or still a work in progress. These are reminders I need myself—simple foundations that inspire me to care for and appreciate our everyday spaces.
My next book, The Inspired Room, will release this fall. It’s a full-color coffee table book that expands on the ideas in this first volume, and I’m excited to share more details soon.
Below, you’ll see us smiling after opening the first copies. My daughter Courtney was a huge help through this process; her insight and support were invaluable. We both put our hearts into this project, hoping it will encourage others starting their own home journeys.
Until yesterday the book existed to me only as an electronic file. Holding the finished paperback changed everything. It’s a two-color book filled with hand-drawn quotes and small illustrations, with a soft, embossed cover that’s both beautiful and tactile. While the ebook is available, this is the kind of book you’ll want on your shelf, nightstand, or beside a favorite chair. It feels personal and comforting—a book to return to.
Okay, I admit it—this might sound a little giddy, but I love it. I find myself stroking the cover, taking photos, and finding small places to tuck it into my home because it feels like a gift I’m excited to share.
I can’t wait for you to hold it, too. The photos don’t capture the full charm of the finished book.
Thank you for following this wild, wonderful journey. I have a few more projects and surprises in the coming weeks that I’ve created especially for readers like you. Your support has made this possible and means the world to me.
I’m also excited to share a special preorder opportunity: Barnes & Noble is offering 50% off the print version of Love The Home You Have for a two-day preorder event on March 9 and 10. It’s a rare discount and a great time to buy copies for friends, new homeowners, or brides. I’ll remind you when the sale approaches so you don’t miss it.
***Giveaway is now closed!!!***
I’m so grateful to everyone who has helped bring this book into the world. If you’re able to share news about the book or the 50% off sale with friends, family, or on social media, it would mean so much. Soon I’ll share downloadable artwork and quotes from the book that you can use to help spread the word. Thank you!
***Giveaway is now closed!!!***