How We Built Our Dream House: Steps, Costs, and Timeline

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Today I took time to reflect and count my blessings. Looking back on a story often reveals how far we’ve come, and hearing others’ stories of patience in creating a home can be comforting. At this time of year, when houses look festive and put together, it’s easy to forget that many took years and … Read more

Meet Finnegan: Inside the Life of an Adventurous Dog

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We did a thing. Meet Finnegan. He’s the coziest, cuddliest little companion we’ve ever met. Finnegan is a small schnoodle, about four and a half months old. We hadn’t planned on getting another pup anytime soon—if ever—because we knew no dog could replace Jack in our home. We still mourn Jack, but we find comfort … Read more

Spring Mantel Decorating Ideas for a Fresh Seasonal Look

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Spring Decorating Last week I gave my family room mantel a fresh, simple spring update. To welcome the season I added a few live spring plants and a moss wreath. Green feels like the perfect first hint of spring. I know the plants might not survive the whole season, but I plan to enjoy them … Read more

Mother’s Day Brunch in the Dining Room: Menu Ideas & Tips

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This post is in partnership with World Market Can you believe Mother’s Day is only a couple of weeks away? If you’re planning something special, hosting a brunch is always a crowd-pleaser. My family loves to make breakfast together, so we often host casual holiday brunches. We had one on Easter and are planning another … Read more

Merry Christmas 2016: Warm Wishes and Holiday Moments

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“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 Merry Christmas, dear friends. P.S. If you missed our festive Christmas video earlier, it’s embedded below for you … Read more

5 Stylish Fall Living Room Makeover Ideas to Inspire You

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Atlanta Homes I’ve been feeling inspired to refresh our living and dining rooms lately. It helps that it’s officially the first day of fall — a perfect reason to make a few changes and welcome a cozier season. Seasonal shifts often spark ideas for small, impactful updates. You don’t need a major renovation to change … Read more

Summer Bedroom Refresh: Simple Upgrades for a Breezy Look

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Summertime in the Pacific Northwest is especially lovely when the sun comes out. Lately we’ve been enjoying a string of beautiful, sunny days, and it’s hard not to feel inspired to refresh the home when the light is this good. Our house benefits from large windows at the rear that let in abundant natural light … Read more

Valentine Romance Resolutions + HeartGram Giveaway

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Will you give a Valentine to someone special this year? I will. After many years of marriage, it’s easy for romance to slip away as everyday responsibilities pile up — housework, kids, pets, jobs, bills, schedules, errands, and all the unexpected tasks that demand attention. I’ll admit that lately our life has been full of … Read more

Easter with Four Doodles: Our Holiday Recap and Photos

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Hey friends! I hope you had a lovely Easter. We attended church as a family and then hosted an Easter brunch with the kids and, of course, our dogs. With all the doodles around, it was a lively, happy gathering. Courtney / Lance (Kylee’s husband) / Kylee / Luke / Doodles / Jack Getting all … Read more