Happy 4th of July, from my family to yours! Wishing you a joyful and safe Independence Day. As we celebrate this special holiday, may your day be filled with laughter, good food, and time spent with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, watching fireworks, or enjoying a relaxing day off, take a … Read more

  Happy Monday! After a busy but rewarding weekend filled with church and activities at our new concert house (I started an Instagram, voyageconcerthouse, to share updates), we treated our hardworking family to an afternoon of sun and fresh air. Our dog Jack came along and had the best day. Warm spring afternoons are rare … Read more

This post created in partnership with TIKI Brand When we moved to Seattle last fall, our top priority was simple: more family time. We expected some remodeling would be necessary, but the location and existing features of this house promised that family togetherness would naturally become a part of daily life. One of our favorite … Read more

Apple Pie Recipe {Pie in a Jar} It’s the time of year when I begin thinking about all the delicious things I can make in the kitchen. If I can prepare something tasty to give as a hostess or holiday gift, that’s an extra delight. This season is about sharing and enjoying good food with … Read more

Blissdom Time! Me (looking like I seriously needed a nap), Laurie Tip Junkie, Nester, Simplemom, Emily Chatting at the Sky (this is her photo) at Blissdom Leaps of Faith This is my fourth year as a home blogger—writers who share about home life, decorating, and everyday living. I began in 2007 on a whim with … Read more

Layering Bedding – BHG Now and then I let myself imagine a future bedroom makeover. I haven’t touched my bedroom in this house — not even a fresh coat of paint. Life and other projects, like finishing my office, have taken priority, but I keep dreaming about changes I want to make. Layered Bedding via … Read more

Amazon, Babysitter, or Joanna Gaines Doormat I’m so happy you’re excited about the Fall Nesting series — I love having a yearly ritual to share. This is my first autumn with our Dutch doors, which inspired me to go on a hunt for new doormats that fit the season. Do you change doormats with the … Read more

Years ago I struggled to keep my home clean. Not just a little — I was overwhelmed. I loved decorating and enjoyed being at home, but maintaining a tidy space felt impossible. I pictured the calm, organized house I wanted, knowing I would feel happier and more productive if I could keep up. Still, I … Read more

How to Make a Lamp All instructions and sources are summarized at the end if you prefer a quick reference. Below I walk through the process step by step with helpful details. Sometimes you can’t find exactly what you want, or the price and wait time are unreasonable. I wanted a large glass lamp and … Read more

Gingerbread House by A Homemade Living – click here for recipe and tips A few years ago we held a gingerbread house decorating contest with the whole family. It became one of those warm, unforgettable holiday nights. My daughter Courtney and her then-fiancé organized everything—supplies, frosting, candy and even homemade certificates for categories like “most … Read more