Summer Puttering: Small Kitchen Projects for Sunny Days

featured 180135 1

Sources (see mood board at end of post) Simple Joy of Puttering One of my favorite rituals in every season is to simply putter around the house. In winter this looks like a quiet, restorative rhythm: make a warm drink, light a candle, straighten a shelf or move a few objects so a corner feels … Read more

10 Smart Tips for Hosting Memorable Holiday Parties

featured 41544 1

Do you enjoy hosting? I do. I love having people over, but I keep things simple. My gatherings avoid fussy decorations and unnecessary stress. That approach lets me enjoy entertaining regularly because I give myself permission to do it my way. With a business, family and volunteer commitments, my time is limited. If I weren’t … Read more

Printable Gift Tags 2021 and Creative Gift Wrap Ideas

featured 139930 1

Almost Makes Perfect – click here to see more and download Can you believe Christmas is only a couple of weeks away? If you’re wrapping gifts and want a simple, inexpensive way to make them look special, printable gift tags are a perfect solution. I put together a curated selection of charming, free printable gift … Read more

Meet Leo and Discover Our Next Project

featured 97233 1

SIt was a busy, exciting weekend for our family. I wanted to share the first batch of photos from my favorite homes at this year’s Street of Dreams. I made a quick trip to tour several houses last week and took hundreds of pictures. I’ll be sharing more details and close-ups in upcoming posts—there are … Read more

Coastal Seascape Art: Sunday Strolls and Beachside Scrolls

featured 159123 1

@sweetshadylane I have always loved seascape and coastal artwork. Long before we moved to a beach house, I collected sea and ship art because the ocean has been a meaningful part of my life and travels. Seascapes remind me of those moments and easily create a calming coastal atmosphere at home. Whether you live by … Read more

Slow Christmas: Embracing the Season and My New Book Dwelling

img 114085 1 1

TThis year I wrote a new book called Dwelling. Due for release in April, Dwelling grew from my wish to shape a home that genuinely cares for the people who live there. It explores how you feel in your dwellings—both in your home and in your body—and invites thoughtful, practical steps to make those places … Read more

5 Key Takeaways from the 2014 Southern Living Idea House

featured 76118 1

1) Calm Colors The soft, muted palette used throughout this home creates an immediate sense of rest and relaxation. Subtle shades of cream, pale blue, and warm gray work together to form a tranquil backdrop that lets furnishings and textures take center stage. Such a color scheme feels timeless and easy to live with, perfect … Read more

5 Smart Ways to Streamline and Organize Small Spaces

featured 92201 1

Small spaces are a delight: cozy, efficient, and often more livable than larger rooms. Still, any home—no matter the size—can quickly become cluttered if you don’t regularly assess what you keep and how you organize the area. Thoughtful decisions about storage and layout make all the difference. Smart solutions streamline daily life. Here are five … Read more

Fall Comforts: Cozy Home Styling Ideas for Saturdays

featured 121257 1

Hi friends! I’m so glad you enjoyed the autumn drive-by as much as Courtney and I did. I always love driving through neighborhoods each season, but fall is especially magical when the leaves turn vibrant shades and spill across streets and sidewalks. Of course, when leaves pile up they can make walking and driving trickier, … Read more