Let’s bring back the 31 Day Love Your Home Challenge! I’ve always loved the small, everyday things that make a home feel cozier, more comfortable, and more welcoming. Right now, as many of us spend more time at home, those simple comforts can help bring a sense of calm and routine. Our daily habits and … Read more

Thrift Store Finds For a while I resisted bringing new pieces into the house. I was focused on editing what we owned, finishing the kitchen updates, laying wood floors and painting so the home felt more like ours. I prefer to clear out first and then add only items I truly love or that have … Read more

Welcome to week four of the Spring 2016 Love Your Home Challenge. It’s been inspiring to see so many people join in on the daily tasks. A small, consistent nudge can help you make real progress, and teaming up with others makes the process more enjoyable. We still have a little over a week left, … Read more

Southern Living I kept noticing one recurring holiday design idea: groups of three. One is elegant. Two is charming. But three creates a bold, balanced statement. BHG This stacked trio of cake plates is so sweet — it immediately reminded me of a similar display I used at home a few years ago. Simple groupings … Read more

I’m not a professional barista, but I love coffee. Over the years I’ve collected espresso and coffee tools that make my morning cup— and often an afternoon pick-me-up—taste great. I also keep a few machines for entertaining or special moments like breakfast in bed or making espresso for two. By popular request, I’ve updated my … Read more

My small pantry under our staircase is one of the most organized rooms in our house! I am thrilled that my pantry makeover is featured today on one of my favorite blogs. This compact pantry beside our kitchen has been one of my favorite spots in the house since we finished it about a year … Read more

I originally wrote the piece below in 2008 and wanted to share an updated reflection. Since then I’ve moved twice, but my feelings about home have stayed the same. I still believe in loving the home I have, even when it isn’t the house of my dreams. Over the years I’ve continued to share ideas … Read more

Do you hate carpet? I won’t pretend I love the carpet in my home. It could be worse, and it is a neutral, so I try to be grateful. Still, after living in a house with hardwoods everywhere, having carpet in most rooms feels like a compromise. Replacing it with hardwood is not an option … Read more

Spring mantel decor I love to putter around the house and refresh my mantel to suit my mood or the season. My Valentine’s mantel was sweet, but after removing the hearts and Xs and Os I wanted to make a few simple adjustments. With gray skies and chilly weather lingering, I’m in that “in between” … Read more

It’s been a while since I shared a Life Lately post, so I wanted to catch up before the season moves on. Time really does fly. We enjoyed a lovely Mother’s Day weekend—my parents were able to stay with us for the first time in over a year. Though we’ve visited them in Portland several … Read more