4 Practical Tips to Improve Your Home Office Setup

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TThis weekend I shared several inspiration images for functional, livable spaces. Today I want to share one of my favorite functional areas: my home office. These photos are from my previous house, and while I haven’t fully finished decorating my new office yet, I’m using many of the same ideas and lessons to shape the … Read more

Sweet Escape: Drive-By Photography Tips for Urban Adventurers

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It’s Drive-By Time! I’m excited to share another neighborhood tour — it had been far too long since our last drive-by. I had a blast taking these photos and imagining you riding along with me, admiring the architecture. Some shots were a real challenge: many homes are tucked behind gardens, gates, fences and hedges, and … Read more

Surviving Christmas Calamities and Everyday Life Chaos

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When I browse blogland this time of year, I see flawless Christmas mantels, picture-perfect vignettes, beautiful swags, charming crafts, and tempting holiday treats. Everything looks polished and airbrushed. If your home looks like that, you can move along now—this post might sting a little. It’s time for an Authentic Living moment. I’m not Martha, and … Read more

5 Stylish Takeaways from a Charming Cape Cod Home

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New England Home II love many architectural styles, but Cape Cod homes have a special place in my heart. I enjoy studying photos of these homes, focusing on design elements that inspire me. Examining details helps me envision how I might adapt them in my own space and sparks creative ideas for future projects. When … Read more

5 Small Touches to Make Any Room More Inviting – Wayfair Finds

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This post is in partnership with Wayfair Small details are what turn a house into a home. A few thoughtful touches bring warmth and create a welcoming, cozy atmosphere you’ll enjoy coming back to. Whether you’re refreshing a room or adding comfort to a favorite space, these five simple ideas will help any room feel … Read more

How to Hang a Rug on the Wall to Spark Joy and Style

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Do you ever freeze when it’s time to hang something on your wall? Or find yourself in a creative rut and wanting to try something new? Not long ago I came across a pretty embroidered rug that caught my eye. I loved it immediately and imagined several ways it could be used — including as … Read more

25 Festive Christmas Decoration Ideas to Transform Your Home

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Happy weekend! Here’s a curated list of 25+ posts to inspire your Christmas decorating and craft projects this season. Why I Decorate Early for Christmas — Simple Decorating Ideas Take a Tour of my 2013 Christmas House — Holiday Home Inspiration Take a Tour of my 2014 Christmas House — Seasonal Decorating Ideas How to … Read more

Mystery Hook: Wire Basket Hanging from a Hook Explained

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Hang a Wire Basket on the Wall with a Hook! Some time ago I shared a photo of a small wire basket hanging in my entry, suspended from a tiny, intriguing hook. The hook was pulled from a miscellaneous box of garage hardware, and at first glance I imagined it as a small nautical fitting, … Read more

4 Refreshing Ways to Enjoy a Blissful Summer

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1. Start a collection of sea-adventure books or any summer reads you can get lost in. Stack them on your coffee table or a shelf to inspire you to slow down and savor lazy summer days. 2. Hang a hammock and set aside regular time to relax and read a few times a week. Allow … Read more

Battery-Operated Window Candles: Cozy Winter Decoration Ideas

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Sources: Reversible mud cloth blanket // Battery operated window candle with timer // Blue and white stamped pillow I want to share my favorite battery-operated window candles, the unexpected features I love, and why this little tradition means so much to me. Years ago, as newlyweds, my husband and I drove past a house glowing … Read more