We’ve shared a number of homemade cleaning recipes and talked about our housekeeping habits before, and now we’re back with a practical roundup of quick, effective fixes to leave your home sparkling fast. These tips are free if you have basic pantry supplies on hand, and every suggestion takes three steps or less so they’re … Read more

I don’t often get excited about JC Penney, but I just found an outstanding area rug for the living room. It features a striking honeycomb pattern and is made of real wool, which instantly elevates the space and gives a mature, refined feel. The price was exceptional—about $200 for a piece that looks and feels … Read more

Alternate post title: Come and Knob On Our Door. Who doesn’t appreciate a forced pun on a Wednesday morning? After sharing a roundup of doorknob options last week and ordering the ones we liked best, we were eager for them to arrive so our upstairs doors could finally have some closure — literally. Until the … Read more

Since we downsized to our 1,400-square-foot home three and a half years ago (our previous house was over twice that size at 3,150 square feet), we’ve learned that smart storage is essential. Thoughtful storage solutions certainly make small-home living more sustainable and enjoyable, but there are also specific layout choices in our house that help … Read more

By the time we unpacked our shower curtain last week, it had been 48 hours since either of us had showered. Those two days were filled with lifting heavy boxes and hauling furniture, so finally hanging the shower curtain felt like a small victory. What wasn’t a victory was the result we first got: We … Read more

I don’t think anyone could stomach that original mustard of a bedroom after seeing Reader Redesign from Annastazia. First, here’s her note: Hi John and Sherry — I’ve been reading your blog for a while and I’m so envious of both your talent and your ranch home. Stairs and second levels are overrated if you … Read more

We’re still at the beach, but here’s something to excite every DIY enthusiast. TEKTON Tools is offering a “Complete Toolbox Makeover” — a massive collection of their most popular tools valued at over $1,000. The prize package includes 46 different tools and sets, from a sleek fiberglass hammer and a versatile 10-in-1 pocket tool to … Read more

*** This giveaway is now closed – see who won below!*** We loved reading all of your suggested rap names — and we especially enjoyed the number of people who typed “C.LO” instead of “L.CO.” It really does roll off the tongue. Our randomly selected winner is Rebecca (or “Rebizzle,” as her high school nickname … Read more

Occasion: A lazy Saturday morning and an itch for thrifting. Location: Around Richmond, hitting six favorite thrift stores with my husband and our toddler (Burger stayed home to nap). We love a good secondhand hunt, so we set out for some window shopping and treasure seeking. Our first stop was Love of Jesus on Midlothian, … Read more

Experts recommend sealing grout thoroughly after any new tile installation. Even if you sealed grout when your floor, shower surround, or backsplash was new — whether you did it yourself or had it done professionally — you should reapply sealer periodically, typically every six months to a year. It’s not strictly mandatory, but regular resealing … Read more