The Heart of Our Home: Celebrating 17 With Gingerbread and New Friends
Fifteen teenagers, a mountain of candy, and a whole lot of laughter—our gingerbread party made the dining room feel like the heart of our home. This is exactly why I dreamed of having this space.
ONE-DAY CHARLESTON ITINERARY
We took all the kids — plus my brother’s family visiting from California with their three little ones — on a one-day trip to Charleston, and it ended up being the sweetest adventure. The morning started out a little rainy, but it cleared just in time for us to explore Rainbow Row, wander past historic mansions, and enjoy the waterfront together. Even with a big group of kids, the day felt surprisingly peaceful and full of laughter. Charleston with family really is a beautiful mix of history, color, and simple fun, and the kids had an absolute blast.
It’s Done! (well it’s not done but done enough for now)
From empty walls to a warm gathering place — our dining room makeover will always be about more than decorating. It’s about reclaiming space for family, friends and gathering. May the Lord use this space to bring people closer to Him.
Creating a Cozy Dining Retreat
I’ve always dreamed of having a dining room—a real one, with space to gather around the table. Now, somehow, we’re just a week and a half away from hosting a Friendsgiving in our home, and I’m finally bringing that dream to life. I started with the wallpaper—an elegant floral from Rifle Paper Co.—and it’s slowly transforming the room into something that feels both cozy and new.
A Cozy Weeknight Chuck Roast
Pot roast is one of those meals I find myself making often, especially on a cozy fall night. It’s simple, comforting, and fills the house with that slow-cooked aroma that makes everything feel calm again. I don’t overthink it—just good meat, a few vegetables, and time in the oven. It’s the kind of dinner that reminds me why I love cooking at home for my family.
Finding Home Again: Creating a Warm, Welcoming Dining Room After a Big Move
I’ve always loved following design blogs, but I’m not a designer—just a mom who loves creating spaces that feel warm and welcoming. When we moved from our tiny New Jersey home (the one that got forty offers!) to a much larger house in South Carolina, I found myself both grateful and overwhelmed. For the first time, I have a real dining room—a space to gather without squeezing chairs against the wall—and yet I’ve been afraid to decorate it. But I’m learning that creating a home isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, trying, and letting love fill the space.
Costco Shop for a Family of 7
I make one big Costco trip each month to stock up on staples, save money, and simplify meal planning. Here’s my tried-and-true shopping list, plus easy meal ideas to make the most of it.
Using Half of Our Garage as an Office
It’s not done, but it works. We are turning half of the garage into an office for my husband and I. When you have a small space and a large family, you have to use every square inch with intention.
Unlocking the Magic of Holiday Decor: Small Spaces, Big Joy - Embracing Cozy and Creative Freedom with Practical Tips
Small spaces have big potential for coziness and charm. It's not about the size; it's about infusing love and intention into every detail.
A Deep Clean and Fast Refresh of My Girls’ Room
In the midst of raising young children, managing a full-time business, a basement renovation, foster care, and even a surprise addition to the family, the past five years have been a whirlwind for me. With barely a moment to spare for anything beyond daily survival, the idea of decluttering and organizing my home felt like a distant dream.
However, in a recent turn of events I suddenly had a little margin and decided to tackle my eleven-year-old and five-year-old daughters' shared bedroom. It's a small space that has posed unique challenges when it comes to keeping it clutter-free. Living in a compact home has taught her that clutter simply has no place. I’ve attempted to give it a quick and cheap refresh.

