Bedroom Makeover: Bed Framed by Elegant Curtained Closets

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When we discovered that Katie at All Bower Power drew partial inspiration from our bedroom makeover, we were excited to see how she transformed her space. Katie took her room from this: To this: The result is a calm, sophisticated retreat that feels both comfortable and stylish. Katie did an impressive job reworking layout, color, … Read more

How to Choose the Perfect Gray Paint Color for Your Home

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We usually feel confident picking a paint color, but choosing the perfect gray for two main living areas had me oddly nervous. We planned to use the same color in the future dining room, main hallway, and living room for continuity, and that made me overthink every swatch. Sherry teased me about my paint paralysis … Read more

How to Paint a Glass Lampshade Turquoise: Step-by-Step Guide

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So John went for a run, and while he was out I quietly painted a light fixture. Let me explain. We have a “full agreement” rule for decor—meaning we don’t buy or change anything unless we’re both on board. That keeps us from holding grudges over big purchases (like a recliner one of us secretly … Read more

He’s Here! New Arrival Announcement and Celebration Guide

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We’re delighted to introduce the newest member of our family: baby Teddy! On Wednesday, April 16 at 8:51 a.m., Theodore Freeman Petersik arrived healthy and strong, weighing 8 pounds and measuring 19.5 inches. We’re completely smitten with him — Clara especially adores her baby brother and can’t stop kissing and cuddling him. Whenever he whimpers … Read more

Backyard Landscaping Ideas and Updates for a Fresh Outdoor Look

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Update: Thank you all for the kind words and support on yesterday’s post. You guys are awesome. We finally have a proper backyard. There’s still grass to plant, but after three phases of digging, transplanting, and weeding (phase one and phase two) our once-Jumanji-like yard is transformed into a cleared space where Burger and Clara … Read more

Organizing Closet Shelves with Storage Bins for Tidy, Accessible Spaces

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That’s right — I pulled a Benita Larsson. If you’re not familiar, Benita runs Chez Larsson and I love the simple, functional, and beautiful Scandinavian approach she brings to home life. This quick closet refresh gave me that same clean, organized vibe I admire so much. (Fun aside: Benita and a handful of other guest … Read more

Soft Neutral Living Room Makeover Ideas for a Cozy, Timeless Space

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Oh happy day! Blayne just sent the after pictures for her recent living room makeover, and we’re excited to share them. A little over a month ago we created a custom mood board for her to guide the update. Here’s the before picture to refresh your memory: And here’s the mood board we put together … Read more

Top Children’s Books to Prepare a New Big Sister or Brother

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Several readers have asked how we’re preparing Clara for a younger sibling. Aside from giving her a baby-boy doll after we learned we were expecting a boy (she still adores Captain Barnacles), we’ve been taking gentle, practical steps to help her adjust. Mostly, we talk with her about what it will be like to be … Read more

48 Hours in New Orleans with Kids: Family Weekend Guide

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After readers asked for more family travel ideas following our guides to Charleston with kids and Palm Springs with kids, here’s a recap of our three-night family trip to New Orleans. It was our first time in the city, and we were pleasantly surprised by how family-friendly it felt—far more than just Bourbon Street and … Read more

Painted Wall Stripes for Bedroom and Bathroom Ideas

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When Jamie shared photos of her elegant striped walls—directly inspired by our bathroom painting project—we had to showcase the impressive makeover. Here’s the note she sent us: Just wanted to tell you “THANK YOU” and send a big cyber-hug for inspiring me to get off my duff and add some oomph to my home. After … Read more