It’s been nearly four years since we last explained how we use smart home technology to make daily life easier. Since then we’ve moved homes, changed states, and updated much of our smart setup. Below I’ll outline what we’ve added, what we no longer use, and which devices still earn a permanent spot in our … Read more

Our Instagram post last night was a little cryptic. We were having an especially frustrating day after two discouraging setbacks with the duplex renovation hit us within ten hours. We try to share the good, the bad, and the ugly—like missing a timeline, busting a budget, or accidentally smashing a ceramic animal. Sometimes renovation life … Read more

Ocean Jasper is a striking and rare variety of jasper valued for its soothing energy and distinctive orb-like patterns. Collectors prize it not only for its multicolored, spherical markings but also because the primary deposit has been closed to future mining, making existing pieces increasingly scarce. Ocean Jasper appears in a wide range of colors … Read more

When Bethany sent her simple yet chic message board project, we had to share it. This is an easy afternoon DIY that adds both function and style to a kitchen, office, mudroom, or any busy corner of your home. Here’s what she wrote: Thank you so much for your upbeat, positive attitude and for inspiring … Read more

Jen’s desk makeover stopped us in our tracks — at first glance we barely recognized the piece. Here’s the note she sent: I love your blog and get so much inspiration from it. I saw you recently featured a beautifully made-over dresser so I thought I’d send you my made-over desk. Who doesn’t love a … Read more

Let’s talk about that buffet again — the one we scored for a steal on Craigslist and tucked into our entryway. Here’s a reminder of what it looked like (sidenote: I will forever say “jog” like “yog” because “yogging” makes me laugh). It was beautiful, but it had a few bumps and bruises that needed … Read more

***This giveaway is no longer accepting entries – see who won below!*** Our two lucky winners as selected by random.org are… Susie (who doesn’t like fish, despite her former employment at Red Lobster) and Sarah (who especially loves Maryland crab, shrimp, salmon, and freshly caught smoked trout). Congrats to both winners! When I lived in … Read more

Last Friday onthis postwe received a comment that sparked a fun idea: “I love your videos and it’s crazy to see the difference in YHL style from the first house to this house! If you wanted to do a side-by-side of rooms past and present, I wouldn’t hate it :)” – Sarah We thought it … Read more

We mentioned in this year’s holiday decorating post that we wanted to add a fireplace mantel this month — and we actually finished it! art | frame for art | rug | ottoman | chairs | crystal fireplace logs | storage cabinets | curtains | rods | large light blue vase Setting a goal to … Read more

***This giveaway is no longer accepting entries – read below to see who won!*** After a lively giveaway (and more NPR fans than we expected), random.org picked our winner: Kathy. She says music is therapeutic and that songs on the radio help lift her mood on bad days. Congratulations, Kathy! We’re thrilled to have given … Read more