Intimate Backyard Date Night for Two + Giveaway Guide

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This post was created in partnership with TIKI® brand. All photos and opinions are my own! I love creating special backyard spaces. My little “secret garden” corner is still a work in progress, but I imagine the day it will be overflowing with plants and feel like a private oasis for relaxing and entertaining. You … Read more

Cozy Inviting Dining Room Ideas for Sunday Brunch and Browsing

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@cherrystreetblossoms What ties these dining rooms together besides the obvious table and chairs and their cozy appeal? Each one features a chandelier with shades. At first I didn’t notice, but once I did, it became clear why these spaces feel so inviting. For our new dining nook I picked a jute chandelier with blue shades … Read more

Minty Watermelon Lime Popsicles Recipe

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Popsicle Recipe Minty Watermelon Lime Popsicle Recipe // yield: approx four 2 oz. popsicles Ingredients: 2 cups 1-inch cubed watermelon 2 tbsp fresh-squeezed lime juice 6 fresh mint leaves, chopped Optional: sweetener to taste (honey, agave, or sugar) Instructions Place the watermelon, lime juice, and chopped mint in a blender. Blend briefly until smooth but … Read more

New Sectional Sofa? Key Practical Questions to Ask Before Buying

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In the middle of a frantic redesign phase, I decided we needed a new sofa — and not just any sofa. I’m picky, and this time I wanted a sectional. That decision added a dozen more choices and measurements to consider, so I took my time. With our home going through a bit of reorganization, … Read more

Designing with Dash & Albert Rugs: Tips, Styles, and Placement

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via my previous remodeled kitchen / striped runner Hey friends! I’m excited to share some big news: I’ve been invited to participate in a rug design challenge organized by Annie Selke for Dash & Albert. I’ve admired Dash & Albert for years, so the opportunity to design a rug for one of my favorite brands … Read more

How to Follow and Get the Most from Blogs

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I haven’t shared blogging tips in a while, but here’s a quick, practical one I use every day. It may not be new to everyone, but it’s a real lifesaver for me. We all have our own ways of staying on top of the blogs we follow — this is mine. A reader mentioned recently … Read more

50% Off The Inspired Room Book Today at Barnes & Noble

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Hi friends! A quick reminder that TODAY only (Thursday, October 15) my new book, The Inspired Room, is available for 50% off for pre-orders at Barnes & Noble. This one-day offer is a fantastic chance to pick up the hardcover for about $13—what a deal! This book is a beautifully produced hardback that works as … Read more

Brighten Small Rooms: Smart Remodeling Tips for Tiny Spaces

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image via Crazy Mary A s we consider what kind of home we can afford (and hope to find) if and when we end up in Seattle, we expect it will likely be a small house that may need some remodeling right away. We’ve visited many open houses to understand what’s available and what to … Read more

Just Got a White Slipcovered Couch — My First Impressions and Tips

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Okay, y’all — yesterday I finally did the thing I’ve been talking about for years. After weighing every option and overthinking every detail, I ordered a white slipcovered couch for our living room. UPDATE! See the couch I chose and FAQ here. Eeek! Buying a couch felt scary — maybe that’s just me. I tend … Read more