Veranda Traditional Entry by Burlington Architects & Building Designers Structured Creations Inc Victorian Exterior Traditional Exterior by Boston Architects & Building Designers Polhemus Savery DaSilva Traditional Exterior by Wayzata General Contractors Stonewood, LLC Hamptons Cottages and Gardens Traditional Exterior by Greenwich Home Builders DeRosa Builders LLC Hiya Papaya – a favorite house tour feature Traditional … Read more

Hi friends! Friday was my son’s last day of junior high — next year he’ll be in high school. It’s hard to believe how quickly time passes. Even when you try to stay present, moments can slip away. In just a week we’ll reach the first day of summer. I’m excited, though we’re likely moving … Read more

If your room feels a bit uninspired, a simple change beneath your furniture can make a big difference. A new statement rug can instantly update the look, shift the mood, make a space feel cozier and more cohesive, define a seating area, and provide the perfect pop of color or pattern your room needs. Choosing … Read more

Hello and Happy New Year! Are you back from the holidays? It’s time for another kitchen update: I’ve been getting a lot of emails asking when I’ll reveal the finished kitchen. I appreciate your excitement and patience—so do I. A few readers worried they’d missed the big reveal, but it isn’t ready yet. Even though … Read more

Country Living – Kelley and Co. I’ve been enjoying almost-summer weather lately — warm, sunny days that make me want to freshen up the house. Is it sunny where you are? The brighter days have inspired me to lighten my decor for the season and get ready for summer, which is arriving quickly. I don’t … Read more

(I’d take this house, wouldn’t you?) I started this blog feeling unsure and a little intimidated. Back then I worried that my small budget, limited time, and basic skills would make my posts unappealing compared with those who could afford to remodel or hire professionals. I certainly wasn’t one of those people. I had to … Read more

Better Homes & Gardens   Every summer when I was in high school, two of my favorite ice cream flavors were Daiquiri Ice and Chocolate Chip Mint—never at the same time, of course. Seeing this room immediately transported me back to those carefree summer days when my biggest decisions were which swimsuit to wear and … Read more

I love a cheerful drawer. Opening one that’s overflowing with random items never feels good. A tidy drawer—simple, organized, and pleasing—makes a difference in how I feel when I start my day. Not every drawer in my home is perfect yet. But progress happens one drawer at a time. Small, consistent improvements keep projects manageable … Read more

Calling all plant lovers! Whether you’ve had a few casualties or you’re a proud plant parent, nurturing houseplants takes a little knowledge and consistent care. I used to consider myself a “plant killer,” but over time I’ve learned what plants need and now have far more successes than failures. Plants need TLC, just like people … Read more

book page from Love the Home You Have Are you already feeling inspired for the holiday season, or a little overwhelmed (or both)? Maybe, like me, you’re pretending everything is fine. I’m excited about the season, yet I’m hoping our kitchen will be finished before Thanksgiving and dreading the idea of Christmas decorating around a … Read more