“When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive–to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love — then make the day count!” Steve Maraboli Is there a shift in the seasons where you are? I can feel fall easing toward its close. Autumn always seems too short … Read more

Today we’re launching a cheerful decorating blog tour to celebrate the release of the new book, But Where Do I Put The Couch? Plus — enter to win a $500 Wayfair gift card. You’ll earn an additional entry at each stop on the tour. Scroll to the list of bloggers below and enter the giveaway … Read more

Time for your friend and mine, Mr. Linky! Here are a few holiday posts from around blogland. Add your holiday ideas and inspiration from this week to Mr. Linky, and if you’d like more ideas you can still browse last Friday’s edition for additional links. Gratitude Garland ideas (three blog links below): Bugzmommy Just a … Read more

This post is in partnership with Tri Pointe Homes If you enjoy wandering through quaint seaside towns and touring beautiful homes, today’s “Out to See” tour will be right up your alley. Whether you prefer armchair travel, are planning a vacation, or are considering relocating to the Pacific Northwest, we’re excited to share a visit … Read more

  1. Axelwood x base dining table   2. Chartreuse Chippendale chair  3. Blue linen settee   4. Yellow metal table lamp   5. Pink chevron pillow 6. Blue ikat pillow 7. Hand carved chest 8. Antique green two-sided desk This post is sponsored by Chairish.com Once upon a time I discovered a simple design … Read more

“Being in a garden is very relaxing and peaceful as plants are restorative to our health and emotions.” I recently shared photos of my lilacs on Instagram and discovered that some parts of the country don’t have lilacs at all. That surprised me—lilacs have such a rich, floral scent that feels like the essence of … Read more

Every morning we make traditional Italian coffee using a stovetop espresso maker (Moka Pot). We enjoy several coffee brands, and one favorite is a roast from Kicking Horse. Use a medium espresso grind—coffee labeled and roasted for espresso works best. Grind fresh beans to a medium-coarse texture in a quality grinder. Fill the lower chamber … Read more

This post and giveaway is sponsored by FilterEasy Greetings and happy first day of summer! We often think about spring cleaning, but who really wants to do extra cleaning in summer? I don’t — yet I still like a tidy home. That’s why a short five-minute cleaning routine is a perfect summertime habit. Sunlight streaming … Read more

Oh! Inspiring Find! Pat from Back Porch Musings’ fabulous island makeover (seen through the lovely dining room!) Do you enjoy collecting ideas from blogs? I used to browse frequently and save interesting posts, but often forgot where I found them. I don’t have time for elaborate note-taking or copying and pasting links, so I’m grateful … Read more

For old times’ sake — and because I admit to a small obsession — I took a short drive-by while I was in Portland last week. It had been far too long. I began in First Addition in Lake Oswego, a neighborhood where I lived several houses back. I spotted a few homes that made … Read more