Blogging often feels like a spinning hamster wheel: we build, buy, install, or try something, write about it, and then move on to the next project. That means we don’t always circle back to older posts with updates, and readers frequently ask for follow-ups. This post collects a bunch of those updates in one place. It’s the second compilation we’ve done (see our first update post titled “our first one” for other topics we’ve revisited).
Our Nest Thermostat: This continues to be the most-asked-about item in the house. The short version: we still love it. It saves energy, and the features we mentioned in the original review remain invaluable — auto-away sensing, learning our schedule (so it warms the second floor when it knows we’re up there), and the convenience of changing the temperature from our phones while in bed or on the road. It’s one of those upgrades you hardly think about until it makes daily life noticeably easier and a little fancier.
It’s hard to precisely quantify savings because we installed it shortly after moving, but the Nest reports we’ve saved more energy than about 70% of other users in our state — a nice benchmark. The auto-away function has been especially helpful; it automatically reduces HVAC activity when we’re out, even on busy days when we forget to adjust the thermostat ourselves. We can also start heating the house from the car before coming home, which is great after weekend trips. In short: we’re still big fans.
Outdoor Plantings: The large holly trees we planted for privacy are thriving — healthy, full, and deterring deer. By contrast, our small privet bush was unexpectedly decimated by deer; despite being sold as deer-resistant, it became a buffet. Fortunately the nursery provided a one-year warranty even for deer damage, so when things warm up we’ll return the remains and likely replace it with another holly or a more suitable species that will actually survive here. Summary: holly trees — great. Privet — not so much.
Living With Stairs: Many readers who live in single-story homes ask what it’s like moving to two levels. The transition has been easier than we expected and positive overall. One unexpected benefit: when guests come over we usually only need to tidy the main level since people naturally congregate there, which cuts prep time in half. Another change is the layout: having bedrooms more separated from work spaces has helped us keep work out of the sleeping area — a healthy separation that we didn’t realize we missed until we had it. Also, having just a half-bath on the main floor makes cleaning quicker. Summary: stairs have been a welcome change.
Old Appliances After Having New Ones: We often get asked whether downgrading from newer to older appliances is frustrating. So far the older refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and laundry units have performed adequately — not glamorous, but functional. We’re patient because we know upgrades will happen over time. That said, the washer recently broke: after disassembling the unit ourselves we discovered two heavily rusted bolts and a detached belt. Those issues are beyond our DIY comfort level, so we scheduled a repair technician. If the fix is reasonable (around $75), we’ll repair rather than replace; if the technician deems the machine beyond saving, we’ll plan for a replacement. We’re also considering a future gas stove upgrade, which is fun to daydream about. Summary: appliances mostly fine, washer giving us a hiccup.
Rejuvenated Wood Floors: We treated the downstairs wood floors with a simple cleaning and sealing method, and seven months later they look essentially unchanged — clean and protected. The sealer has held up well in the office, dining room, and living room. Summary: no complaints about the floors’ durability or appearance.
Nikon D3200: Our camera upgrade remains a great fit. We’ve been pleased with the image and video capabilities and the auto white balance, among other features. If you’re considering this model, our earlier post contains detailed impressions and community feedback that are still relevant. Summary: still happy with the D3200.
Working Without a Two-Person Office: Not having a proper shared workspace has been the most consistently frustrating part of the move. Right now, John works at the desk in the office while I use the kitchen table and clear my things away for meals. It’s manageable but inefficient. We’ve sketched plans and researched options for a two-person setup and hope to prioritize that project — likely after finishing the nursery — because it would improve workflow and free up the kitchen. Summary: tolerable but not ideal; on the to-do list.
Open Shelving in the Kitchen: We still love open shelves. They make unloading the dishwasher and grabbing plates simple and efficient, which is why we used them in this kitchen and in our previous home. For more thoughts and practical pros and cons, see our earlier update post. Summary: open shelving remains a favorite design choice.
Restoration Hardware Table: Our kitchen table has a raw, matte look that initially made us worry about stains from everyday use. After months of life — including a few spills like grape juice and soy sauce — the surface still looks great. It doesn’t seem to absorb liquids or show water rings, which suggests there’s a subtle protective finish. Summary: the table is holding up well.
Karlstad Sofa: Our Karlstad sofa remains a standout. After years of use by two adults, a child, and a dog, it’s still comfortable and visually appealing. The dark sivik gray cover has proven durable and stain-resistant (almost denim-like), and Burger’s nails have not damaged the tightly woven fabric. The machine-washable covers are an added practical benefit. Summary: Karl is reliable, comfortable, and family-friendly.
Stenciled Bathroom Floor: People often ask whether the stenciled floor peels or flakes. The answer is no — it’s held up beautifully. The clear sealer we applied protected the pattern from daily wear and even wiped away stray paint drips during nearby painting projects. Summary: the stenciled floor still looks fresh and durable.
That’s the long list of updates — a mix of wins and small setbacks. What updates have surprised or disappointed you in your home? We love hearing about products and projects that worked out, plus the “don’t do this” lessons from everyone else’s experiences.
For more past mistakes and tweaks we’ve made along the way, look back at previous posts titled “this post,” “this post,” “this post,” and our original update compilation. We don’t always make perfect decisions, but course-correcting has helped things turn out well in the long run.