Christmas Decorating: How to Use the Power of Three for Impact

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Southern Living I kept noticing the power of threes while browsing Christmas decorating ideas. One is charming. Two is elegant. But three creates a strong, cohesive statement. BHG This sweet stack of cake plates is so playful and festive. It reminds me of a similar display I used at home a few years ago. At … Read more

Living Big in Small Spaces: Unexpected Benefits of Compact Homes

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Hi everyone! It’s Courtney. A few weeks ago my mom shared the happy news that my sister and brother-in-law bought their first home. Kylee will share more of their story soon, but between moving and a new puppy, she’s had plenty on her plate. Today I have some news of my own. For the past … Read more

Cozy Fall Entryway Ideas to Welcome Guests

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Pottery Barn When I think of fall nesting, I imagine creating a warm, comfortable space where family and guests feel welcome. Making a home inviting is a labor of love: the season brings more time indoors, so it’s the perfect moment to prepare for gatherings, holidays, and cozy evenings together. To me, how a home … Read more

My Morning Rituals and 5 Morning Gadgets I Can’t Live Without

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I have a few morning rituals and gadgets that set the tone for my day. Beyond convenience, they all engage the senses — taste, scent, sound and touch — which helps me feel grounded and energized. My day begins with fresh water in my bottle. Drinking water first thing in the morning is a simple … Read more

Major Announcement: What You Need to Know Now

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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

Weekend Getaway: Charming Fairytale Cottage Escape

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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

Cozy Winter Hot Cocoa Bar Ideas for Parties and Gatherings

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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

New Seasonal and Holiday Gallery on The Inspired Room — See Ideas

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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

Kitchen Design Ideas: Mudroom Entrance Layout and Vision

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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

Love Your Home Spring 2016 Challenge: Refresh & Declutter Your Space

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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