Are you planning backyard projects for the summer? With new construction we started with a blank slate—both exciting and a bit overwhelming. To keep the process manageable, I’m dividing the yard into functional areas that are attractive, easy to maintain, and practical for family life. Whether you’re starting fresh or working with existing landscaping, organizing … Read more

SOMETHING NEW: ROOM TOURS & DIY I’ve been blogging long enough to know that you’re a lot like me. You enjoy peeking into other people’s homes — not to pry into personal things, but to admire their decor. It’s perfectly natural to be curious about how others style their spaces. You might find yourself glancing … Read more

Don’t get too excited — this is NOT our new house. Bummer, right? All photos in this post are listing images of Seattle homes we saw online or in person while house hunting. Some properties were contenders, others were out of our price range or in the wrong location, and some simply weren’t the right … Read more

My Introduction: I have a sweet blog friend, Charlotte, whose posts about tender memories of daughters often bring a tear to my eye. Our children have flown the nest, and her poignant recollections and gentle efforts to let go reflect many of my own experiences. She has a way of making me cry with a … Read more

OThis spring I’m excited to build a pathway from our deck to the garden shed. With more time at home lately, it’s the perfect season to start a small outdoor project, and my college-aged son being home could make it a nice father‑and‑son weekend project. I’m picturing a curved pea gravel path—simple, charming, and low … Read more

I am drawn to this image from Country Living because of the subtle contrasts it presents. The room feels simple in its overall decor, yet it reveals a quiet complexity when you look closer. Those gentle oppositions — black and white, cluttered and calm, reflective and worn, summer light and cozy textures — give the … Read more

Happy Saturday! To celebrate the 200th Home Style Saturdays post, we’re hosting a giveaway. One lucky reader will win $200 in PayPal cash and a runner-up will receive $100 in PayPal cash. Enter by leaving a comment on this post. For additional entries, leave comments on each of the blogs listed below. Full giveaway details … Read more

1. Turquoise Dragon Pot 2. Pillow 3. Hickory Stick Candles 4. KitchenAid Mixer 5. Splashed Glazed Barrel Canister 6. Dash and Albert Rug 7. The Kitchn I have been feeling a little blue around my house lately. Or maybe more than a little. Don’t worry—I’m not sad. I mean blue as in the color blue. … Read more

Hello, friends. How is everyone? Are you excited that fall is almost here? I have to admit I hadn’t fully registered it at first—then I remembered: fall nesting season is coming, and I’m thrilled. I’ve already been getting emails asking when the Fall Nesting series starts, and I’m so glad you’re as eager as I … Read more

Almost Makes Perfect – click here to see more and download Can you believe Christmas is only about two weeks away? If you’re wrapping gifts and want something pretty and simple, here’s a helpful roundup of free printable gift tags from talented designers across the web. These downloadable tags make gifting look polished and personal … Read more