Carter Elizabeth It was a rough week here when a hard drive failure briefly took the blog offline. After nine years of posting, seeing a blank screen where the site should be gives you a real jolt. Thanks to Ted, our tech helper, the blog is back up and I was able to restore yesterday’s … Read more

Half Baked Harvest Brown paper packages tied up with string… I love the understated charm of kraft paper gift wrap. With a few simple additions—dried sprigs, ribbon, tags or handmade toppers—plain brown paper can become an elegant, personalized package. Below are a variety of creative ideas to inspire your next gift-wrapping session. Kraft paper is … Read more

I’ve been thinking about giving my bathroom a makeover lately. I love how my kitchen turned out, and I keep wondering what it would be like to feel the same way about my bathrooms. Maybe it’s time for a fresh, more personal space. It’s been a long time since I tackled a full bathroom renovation … Read more

Have you ever wanted the cozy glow of a gas-style wall lantern on your front porch but without the cost or wiring? I did, so I created an easy, budget-friendly DIY porch lantern that gives a warm, flickering candle effect without electricity or real gas. It’s perfect for fall and winter, and you can decorate … Read more

Elle Decor / Design by Rita Konig / Wallpaper by Pierre Frey / Photo by Eric Piasecki Yesterday I reshared a post I wrote a couple of years ago called “Finding the Happy Medium in Design.” Reading it again reminded me how consistent my preferences have been: I prefer a balance between calm, restrained elements … Read more

Today I’m sharing a roundup of favorite spring mantels from around the web. My own mantel is finally finished, but I’m waiting to photograph it properly before showing it here — I should have images to share next week. In the meantime, I gathered a few inspiring mantel displays and explained what I like about … Read more

IIf you saw my post last week, you might have noticed I’ve been working on something special. I invited adventurous readers to beta test our new community site Home Love Stories, and more than 300 of you joined in. The response has been wonderful and the community is off to a great start. (PS: Don’t … Read more

Bringing on More Autumn Bliss We are on day 6 of the 31 Days of Autumn Bliss series! If you are just joining in, here are the posts you missed: Entering the Autumn Season A Welcoming Fall Entry The Secret to a Clutter Free Room Bringing Cozy Back! Layering Rugs Over Carpet One of my … Read more

Sources: Snowflake plates // Green Frayed Napkins // Light Woven Charger // White Dinner plates // White Salad Plates /// Greenish Hobnail Goblets // Faux Brown Pears // Striped Table Runner Can you believe December is almost here? I’m thrilled that our little dining nook is finally finished, so I couldn’t resist setting a simple … Read more

{Sunset Magazine} I don’t know about you, but we don’t get to go on many tropical vacations. That doesn’t mean we can’t bring a little Bali to our backyard. With a few thoughtful touches you can create your own island escape and enjoy that relaxed, tropical feeling every day this summer. Life is really about … Read more