May 2, 2024

Even When It’s Hard

Oct21

“Mom, I really don’t want you to invite them to our house. Their kids are kind of weird, and I’m not friends with them. It will be just plain awkward. Can’t you just ask the mom? I mean it. Don’t […]

Beautiful Creativity: Fall Flowers Planted in a Pumpkin

Oct6

When I spied both mums and pumpkins at Aldi for under $3, I knew this festive fall idea must be re-shared. I mean, how cute are these? It will never get old. Last Saturday, some brand new friends joined our […]

A Recipe So Easy You Can Make it in Your Car

Jun8

Find out what others are saying about “Just Open the Door: How One Invitation Can Change a Generation.” A perfect summer read. Come as You Are is an invitation I’ve extended here for years. When you’re known for freely sharing your […]

Join the (Free) Just Open the Door Book Club

Apr25

Click here to join our Just Open the Door Book Club Chat! Hospitality. That word can bring with it a whole lot of expectations and anxiety. Inviting people into your home might feel like inviting judgment on your entertaining skills and […]

It Starts With Just One Invitation

Apr10

Over the last year I’ve been working behind the scenes on a message that I hope will encourage many women. So here I sit again —  typing away with my hands shaking and my heart beating a bit faster than […]

Simple Organizing: Clutter Confessions

Apr2

“Your home is your special place to live life. Whether you’re living in your dream home or a small apartment, the same rule should apply to getting yourself organizing: Make the most of the space you have.” – Melissa Michaels, […]

Make Your Own Huge Chalkboard Sign for under $10

Mar28

There’s nothing I love more than displaying words of encouragement and truth around our home. Learning how to make your own chalkboard sign for just a few dollars is a fantastic way of bringing character to your home without breaking the bank. […]

Just Open the Door: Fun FREEBIES!!

Mar16

A friend once said that launching a book is like standing in front of an audience in your underwear. How’s that for an opener to this post? At the time I didn’t get it, nor did it matter to me […]

Just Open the Door: Won’t You Join Me?

Feb27

I’ve been rather quiet in this space over the last year because I’ve been working behind the scenes on a message that I hope will encourage many women.So here I sit –  typing away with my hands shaking and my […]

Becoming: Creative, Purposeful, Frugal

Jan24

Mark your Calendar for Becoming 2018. I can’t believe that I am announcing that registration for our seventh annual Becoming Conference is open. I am over the top thrilled to invite you to join us!! Whether you come alone (take the […]

How to Clutter Your House in 12 Simple Steps

Jan4

It’s a new year. Everyone is setting goals, people are tacking their clutter and I’m pondering what this year holds for me. My home is our haven – soothing, beautiful, comforting, but sometimes, admittedly cluttered. I’ve come to terms with the […]

Celebrate with Simple Gatherings + Amazing Giveaways

Oct3

As many of you know, I’ve spent the last six months punching out every story and thought and detailing my heart for imperfect, every day hospitality with 60,000 words (yes, you read that correctly – 60K words) In this day and […]

When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned

Sep25

I’m thrilled to welcome my precious friend, Karianne, to my front porch today. We’re in for a double treat because she’s also going to be speaking at my Becoming Conference again this year and she will make you laugh until […]

Free Printable Banner Templates: Alphabet with Different Styles, Shapes & Fonts

Sep18

I think it goes back to my first apartment in college. Overjoyed with the simple pleasure of creating my own space on a budget and finding such joy in the littlest of things, I fell in love with hanging words, […]

It’s Been Almost 9 Years: blogging Q & A’s

Apr21

How is it that we blink and nearly a decade has flown by!!! It’s amazing that we are already making summer plans, isn’t it? In July,  I’m privileged to be a mentor at a Design and DIY blogging conference called Haven and they […]