New England Home Right before Christmas I wrote about the importance of having a small project or plan to look forward to in January that can lift your spirits. That post explains why a fresh focus in the new year can make a real difference. With 2021 drawing to a close, now is the perfect … Read more

Looking for gift ideas for the men in your life? We’ve gathered a thoughtfully curated list of practical, stylish, and fun options that work for birthdays, holidays, or just-because surprises. Top picks and where to find them: Pendleton Roll-Up Chess and Checkers Set – A compact, travel-friendly game set that’s perfect for picnics, road trips, … Read more

TThe Christmas season is nearly here. After turkey and Thanksgiving, we’ll welcome the comforts of the holidays — stockings, trees, lights and maybe even a dusting of snow for those of us who rarely see it. It’s the perfect time to get into a festive mood and let go of any Scrooge-like tendencies. West Elm … Read more

Thank you to One King’s Lane for sponsoring today’s post! I love, love, love puttering around the house. Styling with small accessories is one of my favorite simple pleasures. Mixing different objects and textures is therapeutic — and refreshingly low-stakes. Nothing is permanent, so if something doesn’t feel right you can move it until it … Read more

You know what I love about fall? Nesting. It’s the season for making home cozy and welcoming, especially when I’m hosting small, low-key gatherings. I don’t fuss over formal party etiquette — sometimes we pass food the “wrong” way or set glasses on the opposite side — but the result is always a relaxed, enjoyable … Read more

Fall is my favorite season — you probably already knew that. If I could spend the entire autumn tucked inside, cozy and puttering around the house, I would. Lately I felt a bit off because I didn’t have time to decorate for fall the way I wanted to. Book launch season is exciting but hectic. … Read more

Today I’m excited to share the latest updates to our cozy coastal cottage living room. When we moved into this home four years ago it came furnished, which made downsizing easier and allowed us to wait on major furniture decisions until the time felt right. Because this room is small but important, we took our … Read more

Wall Sconces for the Kitchen Behold these beautiful lights. I recently had an idea to install wall sconces on either side of my kitchen window, recessed into the subway tile surrounding the window. Luckily, our kitchen is still being reassembled, so it was the perfect time to prepare the wiring for new fixtures. It only … Read more

DIY Cinnamon Stick Candles – Stories A to Z Can we pause for a moment to talk about fall and holiday scents? It’s one of my favorite parts of the season. When my daughter Courtney and I go shopping, we love to sniff candles—one by one—making exaggerated sniffs and commenting on each scent. It’s a … Read more

Traditional Home – kitchen with cheerful blue chairs and charming oversized light Kitchens with Charm and Personality! If your kitchen feels boring or uninspired, a few thoughtful changes can give it a fresh, eye-catching personality. You don’t need a full remodel to create a space that delights you every time you walk in. Consider simple … Read more