This post and $300 Amazon gift card giveaway sponsored by Weekly Tasting A couple of years ago I offered to host a girls’ night at my house. Everyone wanted a night out without the kids, and since we no longer have small children (we now have puppies), I was happy to host. As the plans … Read more

I know how much readers enjoy home tours, so today I’m sharing a tour of the charming Seabrook beach cottage where we stayed for a few days this summer. The house belongs to our friend Cassie, who has contributed guest posts here in the past and whose kids’ room organization ideas appear in my book … Read more

Pumpkin Dessert I don’t usually post many food-related pieces on The Inspired Room, but these bite-sized pumpkin treats convinced me to share. They look irresistible and perfect for a cozy fall gathering. I share because I care. And honestly, I need to make these myself. Enjoy a seasonal treat brought to you by Picky Palate. … Read more

BHG Small Space Organization Ideas This photo from Better Homes & Gardens is one of my favorite small-room layouts. It’s attractive and highly functional, illustrating several smart solutions for making the most of limited space. Choose furniture with narrow or tight arms to conserve visual and physical space. A round ottoman creates an easy traffic … Read more

Before When Amanda from Everyday Elements told me she planned to completely redecorate her home office, I was thrilled to follow along. As I mentioned in my 2011 Home Goals, this year I’m focused on making my home not just attractive but comfortable and functional. That’s exactly what Amanda wants for her office: a space … Read more

Give Thanks: Country Living Sorry for the delay in announcing the winners of my all-day giveaway. My blog experienced a glitch that hid comments beyond the first 100, so entries selected in the 200s, 300s and even 600s were difficult to access. Thanks to Darcy for discovering a workaround that allowed me to contact everyone … Read more

I I’ve always loved being creative. As a child I spent hours in paper stores admiring notepads, pretty pens, coloring books, and stickers. While others played with toys, I wallpapered cardboard boxes for dollhouses, sketched floor plans, and clipped magazine images of houses and color palettes. In high school my favorite subjects were art and … Read more

To my United States friends… Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours! Wishing you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving spent with people you love. I’m truly grateful for each of you and the moments we share. If you’re curious about our everyday chaos and the dogs that keep life lively, take a look behind the … Read more

When autumn arrives and Thanksgiving approaches, I start thinking about cooking more than usual. I’ll admit: I’m more into eating than cooking most of the year. But there’s something about the cooler weather, cozy evenings, and holiday spirit that makes me want to cook everything — and bake everything too. Each season I pull out … Read more

striped pot (set of two) / oval lidded basket / green and white plates and bowls This year I’m focused on finding a place for everything and putting things back where they belong. I recently added a few new baskets to the kitchen and wanted to share how they’re helping me keep surfaces tidy while … Read more