via Historical Concepts
It’s been more than a decade since we left our tiny English-style cottage in Portland’s Eastmoreland neighborhood, yet the memories remain vivid. The block was exactly the kind of tree-lined street I had always imagined: full of character, old houses, and neighbors who felt like family. Ours was one of the smaller homes, but it was full of warmth. Even now my sister still lives nearby, so I go back and visit from time to time.
We made so many happy memories in that small house. It wasn’t perfect, but it was the setting for many important moments. It’s where we brought our son home, and for years I cared for his cousin—who is only five weeks older—so the house was bustling with four kids at times. Those close, everyday moments shaped my affection for the place.
When my parents lived just a few blocks away, I loved the short walks to my mother’s house, pushing a double stroller while our girls rode their bikes ahead. Summers meant lemonade stands and block parties; neighbors gathered on the street and the community felt safe and familiar.
Our little cottage
The photo above is of the actual house I’m describing here.
The small bedroom pictured isn’t mine, but it captures the feel. Isn’t it charming?
We put our daughters together in the largest bedroom so they could share, and the small main-floor bedroom became ours. It was so compact we had to angle our bed to fit and convert a hall linen closet into a makeshift closet for my husband. The tight quarters could be trying at times, but the room 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 grew to love as well. I miss them all. Thinking back, I get that warm, familiar feeling remembering how we turned modest spaces into a true home.
Shop for bedroom ideas in the scrolling images below.
Have you ever had an extra-cozy house you loved? Share a favorite memory 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 via the book site).
If you haven’t read the book, consider it a small Valentine’s Day gift to yourself — I hope it inspires you.