Wait—did I really mention becoming an empty nester a year and a half ago? I did, but life had other plans. Over the past year everyone—both two-legged and four-legged—has drifted back through our doors. Aside from a few brief quiet weeks, the house has been lively, noisy and full of love. I’ve been curious about what empty nesting feels like, but other than fleeting moments it’s been more joyful chaos than calm. Sigh and laugh at the same time!
I’m always happy to have my family close, including the furry members. My son came home from his dorm last spring when campuses temporarily closed, and he’s stayed since his classes are nearby and mostly online. Courtney moved into our basement apartment last year and recently settled into a charming place in a nearby town. Having them around adds warmth and routine to the house, and I’m grateful for every visit and stay.
Our fur-grandbaby Bella actually spent her first weeks with us while her parents were in transition, and now she, her fur-brother Leo and their humans—my daughter Kylee and her husband Lance—have moved back for a while while they search for their next home. They sold their townhouse in Seattle and are searching for their first purchased home. It’s an exciting chapter, full of hope and a little stress, given the current housing market. We’re thrilled for them and glad to offer a comfortable place while they look for the right fit.
Soon I’ll share a look at our lower-level spaces where they’ll be staying during their house hunt. We’re happy to have them nearby and I’m keeping my fingers crossed they find something close. In the meantime, it’s been fun seeing our home filled with activity again—meals shared, pets running around and everyday moments that make a house feel like a real home.
I often share live video of the day-to-day happenings, the little chaotic moments and the joyful ones on Instagram and Facebook stories. If you enjoy behind-the-scenes glimpses of family life and home ideas, feel free to follow along. I also post tips, inspiration and encouragement for making a house comfortable and welcoming. I always enjoy hearing from readers who follow the blog and social feeds.
For posts about Kylee’s Seattle townhouse, see the related category on the blog.
We’ve also done a tour of the basement and lower-level areas—I’ll be posting a full tour showing how we’ve made those spaces cozy and welcoming while they stay with us. It’s been a pleasure to offer a safe, comfortable spot while they navigate house hunting and the excitement of finding their first home.
You can follow along with our Instagrams below:
The Inspired Room
Kylee
Courtney
Jack the Goldendoodle
Doodles at Home
Dwell Well Collective