Once upon a time I started a blog, which meant sharing my home with friends both online and in real life. I quickly learned that blogging forces you to decorate for the seasons well in advance—think Christmas displays appearing in early October. Over the years I’ve adjusted that pace. Lately I’ve chosen family time over … Read more

Turn a plain builder-grade mirror into a stylish focal point with a DIY mirror frame for under $20 and about 2 hours of work. Hello, friends! I spent a sunny morning in the garage finishing a small project that had been on my to-do list for years. My kids were happily occupied, the weather was … Read more

The foundation of any room makeover is the paint on the walls. It’s a simple DIY project that delivers dramatic results. With a few practical tips, the right tools, and a little planning, you can get professional-looking results at home. I enjoy painting. It’s affordable, fast, and one of the most effective ways to change … Read more

When the air turns crisp and leaves begin to glow with autumn color, I love giving our living space an easy seasonal refresh. One of the simplest, most budget-friendly updates is swapping out pillow covers on the couch. Fall pillows add warmth, texture, and the cozy color palette of the season without needing a full … Read more

If you want an easy, fast way to refresh your wood fence, painting it with a paint sprayer is one of the best options. Follow these five simple steps to get professional-looking results without hiring a contractor. In our previous home we had a large backyard surrounded by a wooden fence. After a few years … Read more

I’m finally back to finishing the baby girl’s woodland nursery. I had hoped to complete it before she arrived—I nailed down the vision and got a lot of pieces in place—but with Christmas, birthdays and, you know, having a baby, the room wasn’t finished when she was born. This is the crib I bought when … Read more

Looking for the perfect gift for him? Explore creative, practical ideas—from tech gadgets to wardrobe staples—that he’ll actually use and enjoy. Shopping for the man in your life can feel overwhelming. Between countless options and subtle hints that are hard to read, it’s easy to second-guess your choice. This guide is designed to make that … Read more

Craigslist is a fantastic resource. I’ve bought and sold many items there and, until now, I’d had almost nothing but positive experiences. I even drove three hours to pick up my couch from Craigslist — and I love that couch. For about six months I searched for a dresser to place in my entryway. The … Read more

If you want a moody, sophisticated color without committing to pure black, Sherwin Williams Iron Ore is an excellent compromise. Read on to discover this sultry shade and practical tips for using it around the home. With brush in hand and primer at the ready, choosing the right paint color is the big decision. If … Read more

Create a hot chocolate bar for an easy, festive dessert all winter long. Start with your favorite hot cocoa mix and add all the mix-ins your heart desires! Over the years I’ve set up several hot chocolate bars at home, from quick and simple to more elaborate spreads. A hot cocoa bar is a cheerful, … Read more