A curated roundup of budget-friendly modern-traditional bar stools from Amazon—perfect for kitchen islands, peninsulas, and casual dining spaces. Shopping for bar stools can feel like an endless search—matching style, comfort, durability, and budget all at once. During a recent kitchen refresh, I started with inexpensive stools as temporary seating until I found options that looked … Read more

A round-up of our favorite DIY projects to completely transform yards and porches for curb appeal and outdoor entertaining. Over the years we’ve learned that outdoor projects are some of the most rewarding improvements you can make to a home. They might feel overwhelming at first, especially when tackled in the heat of summer, but … Read more

How to remove scratches and blemishes to refinish wood furniture without stripping or sanding in one simple step + vintage bedroom desk, chair, and vanity makeover. We’ve been making progress on Olivia’s “teen” bedroom makeover, and the latest thrifted bedroom desk and chair refresh I just completed completely won me over. The wooden chair I … Read more

We’ve spent the last few weeks giving our narrow laundry room a long-overdue makeover, and it’s finally starting to feel like the space we always believed it could be. What used to be a cramped, overlooked corner of the house is now a bright, functional room that makes laundry feel far less like a chore. … Read more

Each holiday season I like to add one simple, heartfelt craft to our Christmas decor, and these pressed flower ornaments might be the easiest and most charming project I’ve shared. They take just a few minutes each to assemble but look like boutique finds—delicate, light-catching, and perfect for gifting or a cozy girls’ night. These … Read more

I know it’s still technically winter, but I’m done with it. I need bright, fresh energy, so I’ve started putting faux flowers in every room and hoping nature notices. Somehow that led me down a rabbit hole searching for pretty, realistic artificial blooms—and I discovered there are some convincing options out there if you know … Read more

Practical decorating tips to make a small bedroom feel larger using quick, budget-friendly projects and styling ideas to achieve a designer look without the cost. This post is sponsored by Better Homes & Gardens at Walmart. We’ve learned a lot about making small bedrooms function and feel roomy over the years. Our house doesn’t offer … Read more

6 ways to add instant curb appeal in a day with these DIY small front porch ideas on a budget with paint, plants, and decor. A few weeks ago I pulled into our driveway, looked at our small front porch and thought, “Wow—this place needs some life.” If your outdoor entry feels neglected after winter … Read more

Christmas gift basket ideas for the homebody, spa lover, DIYer, entertainer, baker, movie buff, and coffee fanatic. Christmas shopping: finished (or at least, I’m calling it done). I love giving, and this time of year I enjoy creating thoughtful little packages for neighbors, teachers, and service workers. This year, with many families watching their budgets, … Read more

How we saved on our dream marble backsplash and countertop, plus the marble sealer designed to prevent stains and etches for 10 years The bathroom renovation has moved forward quickly this week, and the addition of the scalloped marble backsplash and matching countertop has me absolutely delighted. We still have faucets, lighting, mirrors, and a … Read more