Dwelling: Creating the Heart of Your Home

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Today is launch day for my new book Dwelling!

I love hearing the wind chimes in the trees outside our open windows. They tinkle softly, offering a gentle melody whenever the breeze stirs. Those delicate sounds are among the few man-made noises that truly calm me. I do best in quiet spaces—soft voices, mellow music, and screens turned off.

Of course, my home is not always serene. It can feel chaotic at times: dogs barking at who-knows-what, televisions blaring, and voices raised in conversation. Noise is part of family life.

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Lately, though, I notice the house growing quieter. It may be the quietest it’s ever been. Soon my husband and I will become empty nesters: our youngest son graduates high school this June and will head off to college.

I can feel the seasons of our home shifting. Some days those changes feel bright and clear; other days they arrive like a fog. Emotions shift with them—excitement for new beginnings, a lingering attachment to what’s passing, and a bit of unease about the unknown.

We’ve already sent two daughters out into the world years ago, so I know life after children at home can be rich and rewarding. Still, I can’t yet picture exactly how it will feel to truly be empty nesters.

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I want to savor these last days together, much as I’ve tried to appreciate each season before. That isn’t always easy. When kids are small, carving out quiet moments to savor anything can feel nearly impossible.

After years of calling myself a “home maker”—a maker of home whether or not I also worked outside it—I’ve learned a simple truth:

Peace in any season comes from intention. How can we live well right where we are? We don’t need to be perfect or have all the answers. Growth comes from learning, adapting, and offering ourselves grace while bringing our hearts into the work of home.

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Whether your season is loud or quiet, joyful or challenging, you already have what you need to savor today. Small acts of attention and care in your home add up to a life that feels tended.

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Today is book launch day!

Today is the launch of my book Dwelling! I’m grateful when readers tell me they resonate with the idea of being intentional in the place they call home.

Dwelling isn’t primarily about architecture or décor—though I care about those things—it’s about how we care for ourselves and the people who live with us.

The book is simple to read but invites you to slow down and reflect. Read it with intention and let it be a small act of self-care.

Inside you’ll find journal questions and prompts to help you notice what matters and inspire thoughtful action. Keep a pen nearby and an open heart so those small discoveries can take root.

If you haven’t ordered a copy yet, it is ready to ship today.

You can order your copy of Dwelling here!

*GIVEAWAY CLOSED*

PS. I ran a large giveaway during launch week that included nurturing home and body items. The giveaway is now closed, but I appreciate everyone who entered and celebrated with me.

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