Independence Day Celebration and Top Weekend Sales Picks

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Hi friends! Happy 4th of July — I hope you’re enjoying a long weekend celebrating in the USA. We’re planning a relaxed day in the backyard with family, games and good food. I also had a little downtime on Saturday and worked on a couple of projects I’ll share next week. There have been some … Read more

Subway Tile and Counter Upgrades: Kitchen Progress Reveal

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TThis week my kitchen remodel took a major step forward: new countertops were installed and the subway tile backsplash is going in. I’m thrilled — this stage finally brings the vision I’ve had for the space to life. Thankfully, so far everything is coming together just as I hoped. I tend to overthink design decisions … Read more

Quick Romantic Getaway to San Juan Island by Car

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Wanna come with me on a drive by on San Juan Island? Or more like a walk by—that’s the unhurried pace of a getaway like this. It felt like ages since I’d been away from the blog and my online friends. Last week I tucked myself away for a short escape to a B&B on … Read more

Spring Botanical Art Ideas for Fresh Home Decorating

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I’ve always been drawn to botanical art. Like real plants and flowers, botanical prints bring life and a calm, natural touch to any room. They work beautifully year-round, and with spring approaching they feel especially fresh and inspiring. Below I share some of my favorite botanical pieces — several of them are very similar to … Read more

House Shaking? Causes, Risks, and What Homeowners Should Do

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Remember when I wrote about what I do when I hit a slump around the house? Sometimes I wander through the rooms wanting to change something, but I don’t want to spend money or tackle a big cleaning project. I just want the space to feel refreshed. When that happens, I do something simple but … Read more

Versatile Living Room Game and Dining Table for Small Spaces

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A while back I mentioned the idea of placing a small round table in the corner of our living room. I finally gave it a try and wanted to share the progress. I felt there was unused space in that little corner, so why not make it a purposeful, inviting spot? It didn’t need to … Read more

5 Simple Ways to Create Unexpectedly Stylish Outfits

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  Mixing Up a Great Decorating Style I’ve grown increasingly appreciative of design over the years. As I discover new influences and ideas, my own style evolves. These days my aesthetic resists a single label — it’s not strictly cottage, traditional, modern, French, English or American. I even hesitate to call it “blogger style.” There’s … Read more

The Pioneer Woman: Why I Have a Problem with Her

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SI received a surprise in the mail yesterday from PW — The Pioneer Woman. She kindly sent me a signed copy of her cookbook as a gift. Between us, I think she knows I’m not the most confident cook and wanted to give me a helpful nudge. She has a way of inspiring people to … Read more

Charming Carriage House for Sale – Drive-By Tour Available

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When I lived in Portland I used to pass this charming carriage-house–style garage frequently, but I don’t believe I’ve shared it here until now. It’s so delightful that it seems more suited to living in than storing a car—wouldn’t you agree?