We did it! Over two long Clara naps (with a helpful friend lending a hand) we opened up our front yard in what we’re calling “Phase Two of Ten Million” in our slow transformation. Why so many phases? The yard started out looking like this: Much like our first house’s yard, we expect a few … Read more

We survived our first summer hosting on Airbnb, welcoming 23 different families over the past three months — and, more importantly, the duplex survived too. Our initial rental season had its fair share of hiccups, high-anxiety moments, and unexpected learning opportunities. This week we’re taking you behind the scenes of a busy few months spent … Read more

As of 5:30pm yesterday we reached our second major Homearama Showhouse deadline. The builder hosted a preview party, so everything had to be finished, cleaned, and staged for realtors, prospective buyers, and the generous local companies that donated furnishings and accessories. Fortunately the weather cooperated at the last minute and gave us a nice photo … Read more

Question: Are there any projects that you wish you hadn’t DIY-ed? I’m in the middle of one that’s not going smoothly and I’m second-guessing my decision not to hire it out. – Holly Answer: We get this question a lot. At first glance it’s hard to name a project we regretted finishing ourselves — maybe … Read more

Many readers have asked for practical bookcase-styling tips. There’s no single correct method, but these guidelines will help you create balanced, attractive shelving. When arranging items, experiment until the overall composition feels right. If a cluster of small items reads as cluttered, swap in a few larger pieces. If one heavy object makes the display … Read more

When Yansy sent us photos of her forest-inspired bedroom makeover, we were excited to share the full transformation. Here’s the note she sent us: I wanted to share my finished master bedroom since your Forest Wall project inspired me. I’d love your thoughts. I borrowed the idea from your old dining room chalk project, but … Read more

This giveaway is now closed – see who won below! This week’s random winner is… Megan (who simply and politely entered “Pop me, please”). Congrats Megan! Happy Labor Day! We wanted to follow up with today’s giveaway and reveal the solution to the little hint we dropped in Friday’s post. The three clues were soda … Read more

Well, we haven’t officially closed yet — that will happen in mid-December (fingers crossed) — but here’s how we received an offer on our house. We’re not real estate professionals, so this is simply a summary of what worked for us. If you’re trying to sell your home by owner, these practical steps may help. … Read more

Which eyesores? The obvious ones in our hallway. After installing board and batten, we didn’t want an uninspired light fixture, a yellowed ceiling vent, or a gaudy doorbell stealing the show. These smaller updates were part of last week’s board and batten reveal, and while we continue adding crown molding to the playroom, guest room, … Read more

The bathroom makeover Gemma shared with us stands out for many reasons—the bold dark mirror, the thoughtful use of shower tile over the sink, and especially the custom-built vanity. The finished room feels fresh, modern, and carefully considered. Here’s her note about the project: Hey John & Sherry! My husband and I recently overhauled our … Read more