Hello, friends! It’s been a while since I shared a Life Lately post. So much has been happening at home and in life that it’s hard to keep up, but these catch-up posts are a lovely way to pause and remember the small moments that make life special.
This week I’m sharing highlights from our trip to Portland. Join me as I recap visiting Anthropologie in person (it’s been ages!), peek at a few remodeling decisions, and share some everyday happenings around the house.
Courtney and I spent a weekend in Portland visiting her sister Kylee, our eldest. We relaxed at her charming home, did a photoshoot for upcoming projects, and enjoyed time together. Courtney is getting married this summer, so it was fun to shop and plan a few things for the wedding as well.
We wandered our old hometown farmer’s market and drove past many of the houses we once lived in. Going back is always bittersweet. Someone once asked why I still call Portland “home” even though we now live in Washington. I think it’s possible to feel at home in more than one place—each holds different memories, people, and parts of our heart. We’ve learned to bloom where we are planted while cherishing the places that shaped us.
Life seldom wraps everything neatly, but having two places we love feels like a gift. Thankfully they’re not too far apart, and family in both places makes it easier to split our time and feel rooted in each.
While in Portland we popped into Anthropologie—so fun to browse in person after mostly shopping online. I’ll share a few items that caught my eye and then update you on some remodel details at home.
There’s nothing quite like being in a store to see texture, color, and scale in person. I loved the marbled and monogram mugs, ruffled dishes, and several blue-and-white ceramics on display. I also found a pretty green smocked dress I’d ordered earlier and tried on in the store. I’m leaning into dresses this summer—light, fun, and easy for gatherings around the wedding and warm-weather events.
I did buy that pretty dress—I’d ordered it online earlier and wanted to try it in person. It feels youthful and fun while still feeling like me. Shopping for dresses has been a light, enjoyable focus as we head into summer and wedding season.
Aging is strange—inside I still feel young, even if my wardrobe choices shift over time. I don’t want to lapse into frumpy; instead I aim to wear what makes me feel like myself. In high school I adored dresses, and now many days are spent in comfortable jeans and sneakers, but summer invites dressing up a bit more and I’m enjoying it.
On the drive home we stopped at Trader Joe’s to shop with my college son, Luke. He cared most about groceries, so that’s what we stocked up on—no pretty-flower photos this time, though they always have lovely blooms. We’re proud of him for navigating college through the pandemic and returning to in-person classes this past year. He’s living with friends off campus, and while we miss him, we’re grateful he’s close enough to visit.
We also stopped in Seattle to review flooring samples. I’m excited about the new floors—aiming for a casual, beachy look that stands up to sandy feet and dogs. Replacing floors throughout the house is a significant investment, but with the kitchen remodel happening, it makes sense to do it all at once. I’ll share detailed plans for the remodel soon.
Back home, we’re planning to add plants and window boxes this summer. We purchased three planter boxes for the front porch railings—one accidental solo purchase turned into a happy trio when we later ordered a set of two. I’ve wanted window boxes for a long time and can’t wait to fill them.
There are several updates coming as we move forward with the addition for my parents. We’ve been meeting with our contractor and architectural designer to ensure the addition fits the home’s style and the neighborhood while meeting my parents’ needs. I’ll share more on these plans soon—there’s even a project on the side of the house I’m excited to reveal.
The dogs are loving the relaxed days—lots of naps between outdoor adventures. They truly live a lovely life.
I enjoy morning coffee on the front porch in our white Adirondack chairs. They’re comfortable, cheerful, and perfect for slow mornings.
Since the release of my newest book, A Lovely Life, I’ve been grateful for kind messages from readers who appreciate finding joy and beauty in everyday moments.
Social media often highlights big, polished moments, which can feel unattainable. While it’s inspiring to see others, it’s important to remember that a lovely life is built from simple, everyday choices. If the slower, intentional perspective resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you—your messages and reviews have been so encouraging.
Have a lovely weekend, friend!
You can follow along with a few of our family’s Instagrams below:
The Inspired Room // Kylee // Courtney // The Inspired Room Style // Jack the Goldendoodle // Doodles at Home
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