Today is a very good day. So good that I’m posting twice! Seven years ago this July I started a little blog from my bedroom. I didn’t know how to begin, what to post, or how blogs were “supposed” to look. I had no strategy, no Pinterest, no polished graphics and no social media plan … Read more

Traditional Exterior by Portland Architect Alan Mascord Design Associates Inc I can picture it clearly: a cozy evening by a crackling fire, the warm glow filling the room. The house would carry the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies, inviting and familiar. {inhale deeply, sigh}. Now it’s your turn — what does your ideal home … Read more

TThis year our family is choosing experiences over things. We aren’t planning anything extravagant — no long flights or big-ticket trips — just simple, meaningful moments together. A favorite idea is driving through a nearby neighborhood to admire Christmas lights, then coming home to a hot chocolate bar and settling in to watch old family … Read more

Seasonal Holiday Ideas HKeeping a blog is a lot like caring for a home — it requires regular upkeep, organization and occasional decluttering. After more than five years of posting several times a week, there’s a lot of content on this site that can be hard to find, even for me. To make things easier … Read more

Emily Fisher of Rock Paper Hammer via HGTV Two weeks ago I shared a sketch of a possible kitchen floor plan in the context of our main floor remodel. I didn’t yet mention a potential second bathroom on this level, so today I’m circling back to that idea and answering a few questions readers raised. … Read more

Welcome to the Love Your Home Challenge — Spring 2016 edition. I’m so glad you’re here and ready to spend the next 31 days focusing on small, meaningful improvements to your home. Let’s count today as day one. These bite-sized tasks are meant to help you transform small areas, cultivate gratitude for what you already … Read more

I follow a simple five-minute morning routine every day. It takes only a few minutes, but these small actions help set the tone for the entire day. If I skip any of these steps, I instantly feel behind before I even start the rest of my morning. Beyond these quick tasks, I still do other … Read more

Gifts for Men :: Father’s Day Gifts   Need inspiration for a perfect present for the men in your life this Father’s Day? We’ve gathered thoughtful, modern ideas to help you find something he’ll truly appreciate. Enjoy! 1. Chemex Coffee Maker — a stylish, pour-over brewer for the dad who values great coffee. 2. Father’s … Read more

Kitchen Inspiration Board HHello, friends! I hope your week is off to a great start. As I mentioned in my last post about my new kitchen wall sconces, I’ve been finalizing decisions and am now just waiting for a single cabinet to arrive — once it does, the kitchen plans will finally start coming together. … Read more

I’ve always felt at home with cottage style. I love the cozy, unpretentious feel of smaller, modest homes — the ones that feel lived-in and personal rather than formal or flashy. Cottage style offers warmth, character and a sense of collectedness that makes any space feel welcoming. Cottage design isn’t confined to a single formula. … Read more