The Unraveling: True Stories of Secrets and Consequences

featured 80589 1

Well, it happened. After I mentioned in the Christmas tour that we were “keeping our fingers crossed that they are more civilized this year,” the pups proved me wrong. On the very day of the tour, I stepped away for a minute and heard a commotion from the family room. That’s when the unraveling began. … Read more

Redesigning Our Garden Shed: How We Visualize Every Change

img 135204 1 1

A few years ago our drab, tired backyard shed received a fresh coat of white paint, and the transformation was immediate. The new color brightened the space and gave the little building a lot more charm. While the paint made a big difference, I’ve been thinking about a few more updates for this summer to … Read more

Dining Room Built-In Ideas for My New House

featured 88772 1

Homes to Love HHello! It’s been a whirlwind of a week—sorry I was a little quiet. I didn’t mean to go off the radar, but sometimes projects pile up and last week was one of those times. I’m back now and excited to share updates. I spent a few days at Bloom Bash in Seattle, … Read more

Stylish Coffee Table Decorating Ideas That Impress

featured 192 1

Styling a coffee table can feel challenging. You want the surface to look intentional rather than cluttered, while still adding personality and warmth to the room. Because the coffee table often becomes a focal point, it’s a great place to introduce an eye-catching arrangement that complements the rest of the space. To avoid overwhelming the … Read more

Invite Fresh Flowers Daily: Simple Ways to Beautify Your Home

featured 87558 1

The last few months have been a whirlwind as we settled into our new home. What I missed most during the move was that feeling of being settled enough to relax, style a shelf, set a pretty table, or simply putter around the house — those small moments of nesting that make a space feel … Read more

Refreshing Summer Diffuser Blends to Freshen Your Home

featured 136302 1

Our emotions are shaped by many influences, and our senses play a powerful role. Smell in particular has a strong effect on mood and wellbeing. For that reason I prefer using essential oils at home. Years ago I stopped using scented candles, room sprays, and other fragranced products that contain questionable ingredients. That simple change … Read more

Table Styling Tips: How to Design an Attractive Dining Table

featured 83460 1

Hello and happy April! I’m Michaela, and I’m excited to share simple, practical tablescape and styling tips with you today. Recently I received Melissa’s book, Love the Home You Have, and it reminded me how much small, thoughtful gestures—like setting a simple table—can help you fall in love with your home again. Below are tips … Read more

Autumn Color Pairings for Fresh Fall Decorating Ideas

featured 33795 2

BHG: Fall Decorating in Blue Green, Orange, Brown What are your Fall Decorating Colors? Autumn offers a rich palette drawn from nature — leaves, wood, gourds and the softer light of the season. There are countless combinations that will bring a warm, inviting feel to your home while complementing your existing furnishings. You don’t need … Read more

Redecorating and Reorganizing: Tips for Refreshing Your Home

featured 30497 1

redecorate and organize   WWe’re in the thick of a major home project right now: redecorating and organizing as we install new hardwood floors. I’ve been sharing progress photos on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, so if you follow along you’ve probably seen the steady stream of before-and-in-progress images. It’s a little chaotic, but exciting. With … Read more

4 Essential First Steps for Designing a Room That Works

featured 140665 1

Country Living Do you ever feel unsure where to begin when designing a room? I’m here to help. If you want to refresh a room or decorate your home, these first four steps are the ones I use to get started. I believe a home should feel meaningful and reflect the people who live there. … Read more