Christmas office decor ideas

Our Christmas Office Decor

Christmas Home tour day two! Today is a bit of a special day…this is a space that hasn’t been seen here on the blog in full. I have a few more things to tweak before it’s ready for it’s everyday introduction, but I had to decorate it for Christmas since the office sits right in … Read more

Christmas office decor ideas
Christmas Entry Way Decor Ideas

Christmas Entry Way Decor Ideas – I’ll Have A Blue Christmas

Well, I’m a little late to the party this year…but better late than never, right? I told myself that I wasn’t going to decorate this year. Yep, you heard that right. I was going to go SUPER simple and low key…well, that lasted precisely until December 1oth when I just couldn’t handle it anymore and … Read more

Christmas Entry Way Decor Ideas

Week in Review

Happy snowy Monday! How are you guys? I don’t know why, but this Christmas season I am feeling a bit worn out. I’m tired and feel like I’m doing everything a bit half-baked. But, you know what? For the first time in a long time, the decorations aren’t perfect and in every room of the … Read more

best cyber monday deals

The Biggest and BEST Cyber Monday Deals

It’s late here…technically Monday, but still Sunday night if you haven’t gone to bed yet, right? 😉 it has been a whirlwind of a weekend with SO much fun family time. Sometimes it’s hard to get back into the swing of things. And…it’s supposed to SNOW tomorrow. Maybe if I don’t go to bed it … Read more

best cyber monday deals
walmart fashion

Baby, It’s Cold Outside! Cute Winter fashion with Walmart

I cannot believe how cold it is here in Utah. It happened so fast I feel like Mother Nature is making us pay for our unseasonably warm Sept/Oct with a down right freezing November! Brrrrr! This So Cal girl is not cut out for this. At least let me ease into it! 😉 Lucky for … Read more

walmart fashion
great gifts for bakers

The Best Gifts for Bakers from Amazon

If you’ve been visiting the blog for a bit, then you’ve probably figured out that we like to bake around here. 😉 Did you catch the latest recipe for pumpkin bread with a streusel topping? Heavenly. 😉 There’s an awesome baking store here in Salt Lake that both Ash and I love to go wander … Read more

great gifts for bakers

Week in Review

How was your week? We had the most incredible storm this week. It’s been a long time coming for so Cal, and it was really awesome to get a ton of rain. We got 4 inches in our area…that is INSANE for us. As much as I don’t love winter, I do love a good … Read more

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Serena and Lily Thank You Sale Event

Don’t miss this season’s sale event at Serena & Lily! Take 25% off your entire purchase…here are my sale favorites… Sale season is upon us and I couldn’t be happier about it.  One of my favorites…Serena and Lily, is having an awesome sale right now. Everything, and I do mean everything is 25% off…which is … Read more

christmas decor 32
unique gifts for the cook

Unique Gifts for Cooks from Amazon

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE to cook. A well stocked kitchen is a high priority for me. All the gadgets and gizmos to make cooking easy and fun. When John and I were first married we loved going to the grocery store and picking out ingredients to make fun things at home … Read more

unique gifts for the cook

The BEST Christmas Lights in London

Last December I had the pleasure of planning a trip to London at Christmas for some of John’s work colleagues…and lucky me, we got to join in on the fun! I had never been to London at Christmastime, but it was definitely on my list of things I needed to do. The best thing about … Read more

Best Selling Walmart Gifts on Sale

Best Selling Walmart Gifts on Sale

Black Friday deals are happening so early this year, I can hardly keep track of all the deals! Are you making a list and checking it twice? People are definitely shopping earlier this year and everyone is on the hunt for the best deals they can find. With prices climbing faster than ever I’m feeling … Read more

Best Selling Walmart Gifts on Sale
dana point harbor

Week in Review

What a week! Can you believe that it was just Halloween a week ago today? I don’t know why, but to me it seems like it was already a month ago. Time just seems to be going faster and faster these days. Am I the only one that feels like that? HALLOWEEN FUN Ash and … Read more

dana point harbor

Easy Apple Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel Topping Recipe

If you are looking for all the flavors of fall wrapped up in a muffin, these easy apple muffins with cinnamon streusel topping are it!! This easy recipe is moist and delicious with chunks of real fruit and a secret weapon…sour cream…to keep these gorgeous baked goods from going dry for days…although there is no … Read more

last minute hostess gift ideas

Last Minute Hostess Gift Ideas

Tis the season for dinner parties and overnight guests, which means it’s also time for hostess gifts. If you’ve been invited to a holiday party or dinner, or are staying as a guest at someone’s home this season, it is nice to bring a little something to gift your hostess. A nice hostess gift doesn’t … Read more

last minute hostess gift ideas
best gifts for teen girls

The BEST Gifts for Teen & Tween Girls

It’s that time of year again…time to get our gifting on!! I know this post about the best gifts for teen and tween girls is always a favorite. I know how hard it can be to find the best gifts and I am here to help!! The older kids get, the harder it gets to … Read more

best gifts for teen girls
halloween home decor

Our Halloween Home Decor

Happy (almost) Halloween! I’m sure your little ghouls and goblins are SO excited this weekend with just one more day until the big night! Celebrations have been in full swing in our neighborhood with pumpkin carving parties, costume contests and even a little early trick or treating amongst the neighbors. Tomorrow night we’ll be gathered … Read more

halloween home decor
Amazon Prime Early Access Deals

My Favorite Amazon Prime Early Access Deals

Everyone is going crazy this week! Between 80% off Wayfair deals, Target Deal Days, Walmart Deal Days and now Amazon Prime Early Access Deals…I can’t keep up with all the early holiday sales! (Not to mention my favorite Madewell just kicked off a sale today too!) Did you know that 70% of shoppers will complete … Read more

Amazon Prime Early Access Deals
fall leaves in Utah

Week in Review

Happy Monday!! What a week it has been. We had company this week and it just flew by way too fast. My sister and her cute family came to stay and play for their fall break. We lucked out with perfect weather and gorgeous fall leaves to give them a real taste of fall…something they … Read more

fall leaves in Utah
Hamyard bar featured

Destination Design: The Ham Yard Hotel, London

If you aren’t familiar with The Ham Yard Hotel, The Covent Garden Hotel, The Haymarket Hotel…well, any of the Firmdale Hotels for that matter, let me be the first to introduce you. 🙂  With eight boutique hotels in London, two in New York, and a handful of bars and restaurants, they are a growing company.  … Read more

Hamyard bar featured
target deal days

Target Deal Days – Awesome Early Black Friday Deals

I can’t believe that the time is here to start shopping for the holidays! This year is honestly going by at lightning speed. I feel like I was just getting excited for Andy to come home this summer and now it’s practically Christmas!! Whoa! Target is kicking off what is going to be a week … Read more

target deal days
free halloween tag printable

Free Halloween Tag Printable “Hey Boo”

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Time to start cranking out all the fun free printables for the holidays! If you’ve been following along with me for awhile, you know that I LOVE to make printables. It’s so fun to see them get used over and over again and the creative ways you … Read more

free halloween tag printable
best pumpkin bread recipe with streusel topping

The BEST Pumpkin Bread Recipe With Streusel Topping

It doesn’t take much to encourage the fall baking around here. 😉 Last week temps finally dropped below 95 degrees and we had a few sprinkles, so of course it was time to break out the best pumpkin bread recipe and get cooking! I like to add as much fall flavor to whatever I can, … Read more

best pumpkin bread recipe with streusel topping
favorite walmart home decor finds

Favorite Walmart Home Decor Finds for Fall

I am a firm believer that great design does not have to cost a fortune. I have found myself spending more of decorating dollars at Walmart recently. Everything from a mini room makeover to a few simple pieces to update a room, Walmart has tons of cute pieces. If you’re looking to freshen up your … Read more

favorite walmart home decor finds

Week in Review

Happy Monday! Another week has come and gone and it is really starting to feel like fall. There was even a dusting of snow on some of the mountain tops this week! Yikes! John and I took a ride up the canyon yesterday to see if we could spot any leaves turning colors. We’ve starting … Read more

Halloween Home Decor

Halloween Home Decor

We’re just about one month away from when little ghouls and boys will be knocking on the door in search of yummy treats. Make the house look cute and spooky with these fun Halloween Home Decor items…but don’t delay! They will eerily disappear before you know it! 😉 This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read … Read more

Halloween Home Decor
saturday sale favorites

Saturday Sale Favorites

Happy Saturday! I hope you are all enjoying a fun *almost fall* weekend. I saw something today that made me stop in my tracks. 99 days until CHRISTMAS!!! As I was flipping through the channels last night I saw Christmas Vacation and a few other holiday movies playing. That is CRAZY! I think this year … Read more

saturday sale favorites
fall living room decor ideas

Fall Home Decor Ideas & Blogger Home Tour

Did someone say FALL?! Lately, it hasn’t felt much like fall around here. Record breaking temperatures have me feeling like summer hasn’t quite left yet…but Saturday night we got a glimpse of what’s to come. Cooler temps blew in just for the night and I got to watch football and wear a sweatshirt. That’s good … Read more

fall living room decor ideas

Week In Review

Happy Monday! I hope you all had a nice weekend. It has been a busy few weeks around here. Moving Andy into his dorm, school starting for both kids, parent orientations, company, home projects and more. The last couple of days I’ve been taking care of a sick kiddo…and now that second one just went … Read more

DIY Halloween Decor Indoor Halloween Decorating iDeas

Best Halloween Decor : Get it Before It’s Gone!

Alright, let’s get this party started! School started this week in most places around the country and that can only mean one thing! It’s time to get thinking about the holidays!!! I saw this funny picture on Oriental Trading’s instagram this morning and it helped me feel less silly about hitting publish on this post. … Read more

DIY Halloween Decor Indoor Halloween Decorating iDeas
dorm storage solutions

Ultimate Dorm Storage Solutions

Ok, so I have a question. Why do schools make dorms…which they know are tiny to begin with…so hard to live in? lol! I have been spending the last week really trying to get everything ready for Andy to move into his dorm and whoa! No nails in the walls? No command hooks allowed? That … Read more

dorm storage solutions
the best restaurants orange county

Best Birthday Restaurants Orange County

You may have heard me mention it here before a time or two ;), but I am a So Cal girl through and through. I was born and raised in San Diego and then transplanted to south Orange County 20 years ago when I got married and started my own family. I remember the day … Read more

the best restaurants orange county
pretty guest bedroom decor ideas

Easy Design Updates for a Cozy Guest Bedroom

Get your guest bedroom cozy and ready to welcome family and friends this holiday season with these pretty guest bedroom decor ideas. We’ve been accustomed to welcoming guests year round in the OC Ranch Reno, and summer is a beautiful time to visit Utah, but what I didn’t expect when we moved to Utah is … Read more

pretty guest bedroom decor ideas
The Seabird Resort | Beachfront Hotel in Oceanside, CA

The Seabird Resort | Beachfront Hotel in Oceanside, CA

I grew up in San Diego and admittedly never spent much time in Oceanside. We were a little bit inland and further south in San Diego..so our beach trips took us to La Jolla Shores, Del Mar and points south. Living in Orange County these last many years Oceanside has been a bit closer, but … Read more

The Seabird Resort | Beachfront Hotel in Oceanside, CA
prettiest afternoon teas London

Best High Tea In London

Ashley and I are headed on a little UK adventure in a few weeks so I’ve been researching (one of my favorite things to do when planning a trip!) for all the best of everything that London has to offer. I have been fortunate to spend a fair amount of time in London, but I … Read more

prettiest afternoon teas London
ladera spring living room 1

Small Living Room Decorating Ideas

Hello friends! I am so excited to be joining in on Marty’s spring home tour. I don’t know about you guys, but things around here are starting to feel a teensy bit back to normal, and doing a home tour definitely helps me feel like things are getting back on track! I have been working … Read more

ladera spring living room 1
cute homecoming proposal idea

Cute Homecoming Proposal Idea – Free Printable Tag

Download these free printable tags and make this cute homecoming proposal idea in just minutes! I realize I’m a little late to the game this year, Homecoming has been happening at schools all over for the last few weeks, and dances will wrap up here in the coming weeks, which means most Homecoming proposals have … Read more

cute homecoming proposal idea
1 hotel brooklyn bridge review

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge : A Beautiful Place to Stay in NYC

One Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a sanctuary in the city. John and I had the chance to stay on a trip to the Better Homes & GardensStyleMaker conference and it did not disappoint! Located waterfront on Brooklyn Bridge Park, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge sits right beside the East River and five blocks west of the … Read more

1 hotel brooklyn bridge review
img 6079

1 Hotel West Hollywood Review : A Weekend Getaway

Dare I say…travel is back? Could it be? I decided it was about time to dust off the travel archives and write a travel post. This has been the strangest 15+ months. I have never been so grounded. While there are parts of being a home body I have definitely enjoyed, the wanderlust has been … Read more

img 6079
1 IMG 8799

Bedroom Mood Board Ideas

I have been working on a few projects lately and busy creating some mood boards / design boards to put together some pretty bedroom design ideas, so I thought I would share them here as well. I love a good neutral palette, so this bedroom design is something I would for sure love in my … Read more

1 IMG 8799
beach bedroom ideas

Cute and Sophisticated Beach Themed Bedroom Decor

The OC Ranch Reno is finally starting to come together and I am SO excited to get the last of the furniture here and get it all decorated! You all know how much I love the beach and especially a modern coastal design, so this house is no exception…especially since it’s just minutes from the … Read more

beach bedroom ideas
the silos fixer upper

Visiting Magnolia Silos

When Ash and I heard that John was headed to a conference in Dallas a couple of weeks ago, we immediately saw our chance to go visit The Silos from Fixer Upper and the shops at Magnolia Market so we grabbed a couple of plane tickets and tagged along. John and I had visited the … Read more

the silos fixer upper
the benjamin hotel

Best Places to Stay in NYC : The Benjamin Hotel

These past 2 years (I can’t even believe I’m saying that!) have felt a bit stifling, feeling stuck in one place and generally unable to travel. Things feel a little like they are starting to normalize in that department, we just got back from our first big trip in a few years and while it … Read more

the benjamin hotel
oc ranch kitchen renovation

Ranch Kitchen Remodel Before And After

I know you’ve seen the OC Ranch Reno kitchen pop up in a few seasonal posts over the past few months, but I’ve never shown you the before and after so I thought it was about time! 🙂 I really did love this kitchen the way it was for many years. We were SO young … Read more

oc ranch kitchen renovation
laundry room renovation

Fixer Upper Laundry Rooms

I’m making a better effort to share the before and afters of so many projects that I seem to always neglect here on the blog.  I shared the a few shots of the #1987FixerUpper laundry room up quite some time ago, but I’ve never shown you the before and after…and what a before and after … Read more

laundry room renovation
relaxing retreat scaled

Pretty and Relaxing Bedroom Design Ideas

I can see spring on the horizon and that makes me excited to get a few things refreshed around here! I love putting together design boards for my clients and I often do it just for myself or for fun, and this is one of my favorites yet! I hope you don’t mind if I … Read more

relaxing retreat scaled
thanksgiving gift tags

Thanksgiving Labels Free Printable

I always love a good free printable, and Thanksgiving often gets overlooked here on the blog because I am all crazy planning for Christmas. 😉 I whipped up these Thanksgiving gift tags the other night and wanted to make sure to get them posted before I forget and the holiday is over! 😉 This post … Read more

thanksgiving gift tags
home office remodel

Home Office Decorating Ideas : Our Home Office Remodel

If you’ve seen the #1987FixerUpper foyer entryway remodel, then you probably remember seeing a little bit about me opening up the wall in the entryway as part of our home office remodel. Prior to remodeling this house, I was pouring over home office decorating ideas, trying to come up with the best plan for this … Read more

home office remodel
Christmas kitchen decor ideas

Pretty Christmas Kitchen Decor Ideas Home Tour

December is here!! Yay for all things Christmas! Are your decorations up and ready to go? I love it when Thanksgiving falls just a little bit earlier in the month of December rather than on the 29th or something, because I love to have an extra few days after Thanksgiving to prepare for the month … Read more

Christmas kitchen decor ideas
simple guest room design

Simple Guest Room Design

The original owners of the 1987 Fixer Upper had raised 6 kids there. Six! The space needs of their family were obviously different than ours with just two older kids…one of whom would be out of the house in three short years. The house, namely the secondary bedrooms and bathrooms, had been built to fit … Read more

simple guest room design
visit sleeping beauty's castle neuschwanstein castle

Where Is Sleeping Beauty’s Castle

It’s what fairytale dreams are made of…a princess castle nestled in the forest of Germany. Take one look at Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany and you can see how it inspired Walt Disney to create Sleeping Beauty’s castle. When we added Germany to our travel itinerary, driving out to see this gorgeous cliffside castle was a … Read more

visit sleeping beauty's castle neuschwanstein castle
farmhouse kitchen design ideas

Midway Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Remodel Before and After

I am the worst about sharing completed projects. I sat down last night to make a list of the things I had neglected to add here on the blog, and let’s just say…I may now have several printed pages of things I need to work on. Oops! lol! :0 There are so many spaces from … Read more

farmhouse kitchen design ideas
hello fresh 2

HelloFresh Meals : How it Works & Why We Love it

Last week I shared a little bit about how I am working on my health and trying to walk and watch what I eat. I have been getting so many questions and comments about what I am doing, I am so surprised by the response! I am super grateful for your messages of encouragement, and … Read more

hello fresh 2
midway guest bedroom design

Pretty Farmhouse Bedroom Design Ideas : Midway Modern Makeover

I love a reveal day! There’s nothing better than sharing a space that was tired and then getting to see what happens when we breathe some new life into it! The guest bedrooms at the Midway Modern Farmhouse were in need of some love. As I’ve mentioned many times before, this house had GREAT bones! … Read more

midway guest bedroom design
great gift ideas from Walmart

Great Gift Ideas from Walmart

How’s your gift list looking this season? Everyone I’ve talked to is definitely shopping early…are you usually an early shopper or do you like to wait until the last minute? I usually like to get the bulk of my shopping done early, and then save a few little things to get right at the last … Read more

great gift ideas from Walmart
green halloween party punch

Monster Punch Halloween

This sweet & bubbly Halloween sherbet punch is always a hit and the perfect punch for your Halloween parties this year!! Years ago…and I do mean years…I was nine and my parents were about to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary. Can we say honeymoon baby?! Anyways, party planning is in my blood…I come by it … Read more

green halloween party punch

Cute Coastal Christmas Bedroom Decorating Ideas

Hello! Welcome to my very first home tour of the Christmas season! I’m so excited to be joining Tana and the other talented bloggers sharing their homes all decked for Christmas today! It’s so fun to have you here. Thanks for stopping by and spending a few minutes of your day with me! 🙂 I … Read more

Dijon France Travel

Where To Stay In Dijon France

For Christmas last year we had the pleasure of traveling to France for the holiday break. As you know, if you’ve been following along with our travels for the last many years, we love to rent a car when we travel and drive all over creation. On this trip we started in Paris, where we … Read more

Dijon France Travel

Entryway Remodel Ideas

The front entryway at the Midway Modern Farmhouse is a grand, beautiful space…but it didn’t always feel like that. I distinctly remember walking into the house for the first time right after the sale closed and feeling like, “oh, boy! That wall is the first thing to go!” I immediately had front entryway decorating ideas … Read more

free halloween tag

Free Halloween Tag: Happy Halloween Jack-o-Lantern Printable

Cue “it’s the most wonderful time of the year.” You know what that means!! Time for lots of free Halloween printable tags and cute ideas! I love these bold, graphic Happy Halloween tags with their cheery jack-o-lantern taking center stage. The bright orange pumpkin against that deep black background is attention grabbing for sure. Are … Read more

free halloween tag
11 cadogan gardens london

11 Cadogan Gardens Review

A trip to London always leaves me feeling inspired and like my cup is full. It’s always an absolute dream to be wandering down the bustling streets in this beautiful city lined with gorgeous townhouses and quaint shops and restaurants.  This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. On our last couple … Read more

11 cadogan gardens london
powder bathroom renovation

Powder Room Reno

I’ve been talking a little bit about wallpaper over on Instagram so I thought it would be fun to share the powder bathroom renovation before and after pictures from the OC Ranch Reno. I just had the space wallpapered after thinking about it for years…no joke! I finally committed to it and can I just … Read more

powder bathroom renovation
Happy 4th of july printable

4th of July Printables : Free Printable Sign

Happy 4th of July!  This week is always such a fun one with communities celebrating with 5k’s and pancake breakfasts, carnivals and street fairs…all leading up to the main event…BBQ’s and fireworks on the big night.  I always feel such a sense of pride and gratitude for this country.  I feel like so often we … Read more

Happy 4th of july printable
legacy box 12

How Does Legacy Box Work

I don’t know about you guys, but January is always a month of cleaning, organizing and clearing out in our house. It always feels particularly good after the holidays to clear the clutter. I have had a project on my to-do list for years that I am so excited to finally be doing something about! … Read more

legacy box 12
easy diy disney halloween costume ideas for adults

Easy DIY Disney Halloween Costume Idea for Teens

It’s already the middle of September, and if you’re anything like me, you are wondering how we got here and why it feels like it should be Easter and not Halloween. 😉 Such a crazy year! We had a great introduction to fall earlier this week that fit perfectly with 2020. Monday was Labor Day … Read more

easy diy disney halloween costume ideas for adults
Diy front yard landscaping

DIY Front Yard Landscaping Ideas on a Budget

John and I were sitting outside last night around the fire, chatting about some recent yard improvements we’ve done and what’s up next on the list, when it occurred to me that I haven’t shared our updated front yard here on the blog yet!  When we bought this house the landscaping was neat and tidy, … Read more

Diy front yard landscaping
Awesome fiesta party ideas

Taco Bout A Party : Fiesta Party Ideas

If you know me, you know I never turn down a chance to party…especially if there are tacos involved!  I love the colorful vibe of a fiesta…everything goes!  Heading into summer there is no better way to celebrate all season long than with tacos, cold drinks and colorful decor!  I whipped up a little something … Read more

Awesome fiesta party ideas
free printable halloween tags

Halloween Tags Free Printable

I can’t believe we are heading into the final push before Halloween! What are you guys doing this year? Is Halloween going to look pretty normal for you, or are restrictions and pandemic concerns keeping things limited? I’m not really sure what it’s going to look like around here. I hear rumors of trick or … Read more

free printable halloween tags
easy diy disney mary poppins costume ideas 2

Easy Mary Poppins Costume

This year’s wild pandemic situation has kind of left Halloween plans a bit up in the air, but that doesn’t mean we’re going to stop celebrating around here! Ash had already decided last year that it was her last year trick or treating, so fortunately she won’t feel like she’s missing out on much even … Read more

easy diy disney mary poppins costume ideas 2
Kids bathroom design ideas

Boys Bathroom Design

I am so excited to finally reveal the kid’s bathroom design ideas and completed project today!  There are so many rooms in this house that are 80% of the way there and have just taken me forever to get that last 20% done!  The kid’s bathroom is definitely one of them.  I never go in … Read more

Kids bathroom design ideas
Awesome boy bedroom ideas

Awesome Boy Bedroom Ideas

A month or so ago when Andy was away at camp, I finally had a chance to get in to that room, deep clean it and decorate it.  Ever since we moved in it’s just been a hodge-podge of junk.  His headboard wasn’t attached, he didn’t have a bedskirt…no window coverings…it was looking pretty rough. … Read more

Awesome boy bedroom ideas
Christmas bedroom decorations

15 Beautiful Christmas Room Ideas : Our Christmas Bedroom Decor

I am SO excited to be sharing some of our Christmas home with you today! With Thanksgiving falling so much later this year, it has thrown me for a loop trying to hurry and get things ready for Christmas.  I don’t know about you guys, but I need that extra week in between Thanksgiving and … Read more

Christmas bedroom decorations
modern master bedroom ideas

Modern Master Bedroom Ideas : Our Summer Home Tour

Hello and welcome to our summer home tour! Has summer officially started for you guys yet? We ended “school” (aka distance learning) a week and a half ago, and headed for our home in CA, but several of our friends here in CA still aren’t officially done. I don’t know what I would do if … Read more

modern master bedroom ideas
Best blue paint colors for your home 1

Designer’s Favorite Blue Paint Colors for Your Home

If you know me and have been following the blog for awhile, you know I love blue.  Blue is soothing and serene and creates a calming vibe in any home, all while adding great color and style. It’s timeless too…I consider dark shades of blue to be neutrals like a good gray or beige. A … Read more

Best blue paint colors for your home 1
pork carnitas tacos toppings

Toppings For Carnitas

Mexican food is a staple in our house. Like when we’re home in Orange County we eat it 4-5 times a week, can’t get enough of it staple. 😉 Moving to Utah has made it a bit more difficult to find delicious Mexican food, especially some of our favorites…pork carnitas tacos…so I have gotten desperate … Read more

pork carnitas tacos toppings
Biltmore hotel arizona

Biltmore Hotel Arizona : Phoenix Family Vacation

We have been traveling to Phoenix for years for a fun desert getaway.  A quick drive from our home in Orange County and home to many of our extended family, we usually find ourselves there several times a year. Over spring break this year John was fortunate to have a conference at the Arizona Biltmore … Read more

Biltmore hotel arizona
No chill sour cream sugar cookie recipe

Sour Cream Cut Out Sugar Cookies

So, I had an idea. 😉 With quarantine not looking like it’s ending any time soon, I am working on something fun that I hope will help everyone keep kids busy and families having fun. I would rather have this time of uncertainty be a time making memories with our loved ones that time spent … Read more

No chill sour cream sugar cookie recipe
Pantry ideas

Pictures Of Walk-In Pantry Ideas

Anyone that has done a major remodel before I’m sure can relate to the fact that there are just some things that take forever to truly finish.  In the case of the 1987 Fixer Upper pantry, it was the fact that we were waiting on a doorknob.  I know.  It sounds pretty ridiculous, but it’s … Read more

Pantry ideas
Easy easter brunch table decor ideas

Easy Easter Brunch Table Setting Ideas and Recipes

I can hardly believe that we’ve already hit the time of the year where we’re talking about Easter! These years are flying by…although I think the next few weeks quarantined for COVID-19 will slow things down a bit. 😉 That’s not all bad though! I don’t know about you, but I have tons of things … Read more

Easy easter brunch table decor ideas
Fall kitchen decor ideas

Fall Home Decor : Fall Kitchen Decorating Ideas

Fall decor in our house doesn’t get a ton of time to really shine.  Between Halloween and Christmas, there just isn’t much time to enjoy it as Christmas seems to creep closer and closer to Halloween each year…not that I’m complaining. 🙂 (I might be one of those crazy people that starts listening to Christmas … Read more

Fall kitchen decor ideas
gift wrapping ideas

Creative Ways To Wrap Children’s Christmas Gifts

It’s hard to believe that we are already getting down to the wire as far as buying our gifts for gift giving. I saw an email pop up in my inbox yesterday that said “Need a great last minute gift?!” I thought, what?! I haven’t even bought ONE gift yet and now it’s already last … Read more

gift wrapping ideas
best places to stay in riva del garda

Best Places to Stay in Lake Garda & Things to do in Riva del Garda

The lakes region in Italy has become one of our favorite travel destinations.  Sparkling turquoise water, dramatic mountains jutting out of the lake, quaint villages and lots of activities for families and couples alike, it’s no wonder we love to visit!  Of all the lakes in Italy, Lake Garda is Italy’s largest. A quick 2 … Read more

best places to stay in riva del garda
Free printable christmas tags

For Your Mistle Toes

Every year Ash likes to come up with a little something fun to give her friends at school the last day of school before Christmas break. It’s always a little bit of a challenge to find something cute and inexpensive enough to give to lots of people, so hopefully these fun free printable gift tags … Read more

Free printable christmas tags
Places to stay near zion national park

Inn at Entrada : Places to Stay Near Zion National Park

If you have never had the opportunity to visit one or more of the National Parks, here is my formal invitation to make Zion National Park a vacation destination in the near future.  Living in Southern California my whole life and traveling back and forth between CA and Utah for school, St. George was always … Read more

Places to stay near zion national park
beautiful home office design

Farmhouse Library Ideas

January is always a time I to want to find a place to snuggle up and get cozy. It’s cold and dreary outside in most places, and coming off of all the holiday craziness it feels good to relax and settle back into a bit of a routine. After the year we have all had, … Read more

beautiful home office design
cute football party ideas

Best Super Bowl Party Ideas

I was watching the NCAA National Championship football game the other night and it hit me that we are almost to Super Bowl time! It’s kind of wild for me to think about because last year we had a fun family over last minute to watch the big game, and that was the last time … Read more

cute football party ideas
Under the sea party ideas narwhal party

Under The Sea Party Ideas Food

This past week I had the pleasure of celebrating the birthday of a very special girl.  As went about planning this party, I wrestled with the idea of whether or not to share it here.  You know I love to share all the things I am up to, in hopes that I can inspire some … Read more

Under the sea party ideas narwhal party
Bruges belgium

Family Hotels Bruges

Our time in Europe has taken us to lots of big cities.  I love big cities, but I also wanted to explore the small towns of Europe and really get a feel for what it was like to live in a smaller town. A while ago I mentioned a bit about skipping Brussels if you are … Read more

Bruges belgium
Farmhouse wall decor ideas

Farmhouse Wall Decor Ideas

Ever since Fixer Upper became a part of our regular TV line-up and Chip and Joanna Gaines became the next Oprah, Farmhouse decor has exploded and I don’t think it’s going anywhere anytime soon. Even modern new builds want the farmhouse vibe, and it’s amazing just how versatile this trend is. Some type of farmhouse … Read more

Farmhouse wall decor ideas
Awesome gifts for disny lovers

Disney Gifts for Mom : Awesome Gifts for Disney Lovers

One of my greatest joys in life is gift giving.  I LOVE the challenge of coming up with clever, thoughtful gifts for those that I love.  I don’t always succeed, but I try really hard to pay attention to things that people mention in conversation and watch for clues throughout the year of things I … Read more

Awesome gifts for disny lovers
Pink pirate party ideas

Halloween Pirate Theme Ideas

Guys, can I just tell you how much fun I am having working with Oriental Trading these days?  When they emailed a few months ago and said hey…it’s Friday the 13th in September….let’s get our skeletons out of the closet and party, I couldn’t help but jump on board.  They are introducing a bunch of … Read more

Pink pirate party ideas
guest bedroom design ideas

Modern Guest Bedrooms

One of the rooms in this Utah house that has been neglected is the guest bedroom that gets the most use. We have a small guest bedroom that works well when kids come to stay, and I love it because it feels cozy, but this larger guest bedroom at the back of the house has … Read more

guest bedroom design ideas
Pietros antipasto salad platter recipe

Pictures Of Antipasto Salad

I have been spending a fair amount of time over these past months at home sifting through tens if not hundreds of thousands of pictures from the past 15 or so years. It’s been a great project for all our “stay at home” time, and I’m amazed by how many pictures I have forgotten about … Read more

Pietros antipasto salad platter recipe
Gift guide for dad

14 Great Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad

Can we all agree that shopping and buying gifts for men is terribly difficult?!  Whether you are shopping for a husband, father, boyfriend, brother…you name it.  When they’re little it’s as easy as can be..cars and trucks, remote control anything, gadgets and gizmos galore and they are happy.  You might remember that when I put … Read more

Gift guide for dad
The coolest gifts for teen boys

The Coolest Gifts for Teen Boys Under $50

Let’s just say it out loud…boys are kind of hard to shop for.  I mean, they are easy in the sense that they really don’t want much more than a shirt or some sort of gadget, but when it comes to knowing what they really want and finding something kind of creative for them, I … Read more

The coolest gifts for teen boys
Fresh pasta to go venice italy with text

Fresh Pasta To Go Venice

I like nice restaurants as much as the next guy, but sometimes when you are traveling…especially with kids and a family, you just want some good cheap street food or a hearty meal that is delicious and doesn’t break the bank.  Eating in Venice on a budget can be a bit of a challenge since … Read more

Fresh pasta to go venice italy with text
navy blue kitchen island

White Kitchen With Navy Blue Island

The kitchen truly is the heart of the home.  When it came to designing the 1987 fixer upper kitchen remodel it really needed to be the center of everything in this formerly 1980’s style house.  It had been a very nice, functional kitchen, but one that was also a bit cut-off from the family spaces … Read more

navy blue kitchen island
Prettiest brass hardware

Modern Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Ideas : My Favorite Brass Hardware

I’ve been spending a lot of time this week focusing on a client project, getting the finishes narrowed down and finding the perfect modern kitchen cabinet hardware ideas for the cabinets that will be going in as part of this major renovation.  Brass fixtures and hardware have made a major comeback in the last few … Read more

Prettiest brass hardware
Carnival 7911

Diy Halloween Carnival Games

Halloween is just around the corner and if you are anything like me, you are looking for fun traditional Halloween activity and games ideas to keep the kiddos entertained.  While it has been a few years, I used to throw a big Halloween carnival for our neighborhood every Halloween, so I built up a pretty … Read more

Carnival 7911
Wall art for teen girl bedrooms

Wall Art for Teenage Girl Bedrooms

I feel like things are moving at a snails pace around here, but I am happy to say that Ashley’s teen girl bedroom is finally coming together!  I feel like I have spent months looking for the perfect girl bedroom sets, and teenage girl room colors…and now it is starting to happen!  While it’s not … Read more

Wall art for teen girl bedrooms
frozen birthday party decorations

Frozen Birthday Party Decorations : Frozen Party Ideas

My kids anticipate the holidays almost as much for the new kids movies that are coming out as the food and presents! Over the summer I took my kids to the movies. During the previews, they had the cutest digital short from Pixar. It was about a slightly funny looking, but adorable snowman. A few … Read more

frozen birthday party decorations
Things to do in jackson hole in the summer

Jackson Hole September

Over Labor Day weekend we decided to make a last minute family trip to the town of Jackson, WY.  I had been to Jackson Hole, Wyoming many, many years ago as a kid when my family passed through on their way to Yellowstone National Park, but I didn’t remember much, and the rest of my … Read more

Things to do in jackson hole in the summer
Halloween movie night ideas

Haloween Movie Night

It’s always fun to get a few friends together and celebrate the holidays, and in our house we love to do that with movie nights.  Putting something together that is cute doesn’t take a ton of effort, and for the kids, getting to invite some friends over for treats and a movie makes them feel … Read more

Halloween movie night ideas
17 awesome winter party ideas

Ski Themed Party Decorations

Baby it’s cold outside!  As I write this I am sitting in front of the fireplace, staring at about 3 feet of snow outside my window.  While I wish that spring was on it’s way, reality is that I am going to be cold for awhile still…so why not embrace it and celebrate with some … Read more

17 awesome winter party ideas
Luxury family resort venice italy

Isola Delle Rose Beach

If you are thinking about a family trip to Venice, Italy this year, look no further for a fabulous hotel.  The JW Marriott Venice Italy located on Isola delle Rose Venezia is amazing!  Venice can be a hot and crowded place to visit during the summer, and I’ve heard many people say that it wasn’t … Read more

Luxury family resort venice italy
Visitor oyster cards

Visitor Oyster Cards : Tips for Getting Around London

If you are traveling to London you will, with out a doubt, need to familiarize yourself with public transportation while visiting.  Using the tube is the easiest and most cost effective way to get around the city. The endless system of trains, the Underground and buses make it simple to get all over Central London … Read more

Visitor oyster cards
nordstrom cafe recipe for salads

Nordstrom Cafe Salad Recipes

A few of my favorite recipes for delicious salads happens to be from Nordstrom Cafe.  In Orange County, my local Nordstrom is about a 5 minute drive and so I make sure to plan frequent visits for lunch when I’m there.  In Salt Lake, our closest Nordstrom isn’t to much much further, but what I … Read more

nordstrom cafe recipe for salads
Halloween candy buffet1

Colorful Halloween Party Candy Buffet Ideas

When you think of Halloween colors, black and orange are usually the first to come to mind, but Halloween party ideas don’t always have to revolve around those colors.  Having a girly-girl has definitely taught me that non-traditional colors and Halloween party ideas make for equally fun and pretty parties.  I put together these colorful … Read more

Halloween candy buffet1
Ugly sweater party food ideas

Ugly Sweater Party Food Ideas

It’s no secret that I love any excuse to party…we’re even known to have what has affectionately become known as “fake parties” here in our house just so I can have an excuse to set up something cute. HA! When Ashley mentioned getting a few girls from school together I immediately thought “PARTY!” but coming … Read more

Ugly sweater party food ideas
Hotel elefant salzburg austria

Best Family Hotels in Salzburg: Hotel Elefant Salzburg

When we decided to visit Salzburg, Austria during our summer in Europe, (a Sound of Music Tour was a must for us!) we knew we wanted to stay right in the heart of the old city center.  (affiliate links are included in this post) We spent some time researching the best family hotels in Salzburg. … Read more

Hotel elefant salzburg austria

Cute and Cheerful Christmas Bedroom Decorating Ideas

As it gets closer to Christmas I keep finding new little spots I want to add a little Christmas cheer to.  One of our guest rooms is actually one of my favorite spots in the house because the beds just look so darn cute when they are all made up.  (Maybe it’s really because no … Read more

Teachers copy

Teacher Gift Ideas : Gifts Teachers really want

Christmas and definitely the end of the school year are super busy times.  Classroom parties, testing, holidays, vacations… it’s a crazy, sometimes overwhelming time of year.  Let’s make it easy this year and get one thing out of the way.  What to give your child’s teacher!  Coming up with teacher gift ideas is just another … Read more

Teachers copy
cinco de mayo dessert

Cinco De Mayo Tres Leches Cake

With summer upon us I thought this is the perfect time to share my family’s FAVORITE Cinco de Mayo dessert that will be the perfect compliment to your tacos and guacamole. 😉  Have you ever wondered how to make a tres leches cake? Well, you’re in luck, because this is a super easy Tres Leches … Read more

cinco de mayo dessert
Cute food for kids

Spooktacular Halloween Food Ideas for Kids

The holidays are so much fun, but really, there is nothing quite like seeing the holidays through the eyes of a child.  The years are fleeting…as a matter of fact, the pictures in this post are from years ago…and I can’t believe just how much the kids have grown.  I feel like these pictures were … Read more

Cute food for kids
Minted mantel 11

Heart Design For Project

It’s that time of year when we are all looking for red and pink decor and fun heart shaped decorations to make.  This wood button heart craft is my three favorite things: fun, easy and cute.  In only a matter of minutes and with just a few supplies, many of which you probably already have … Read more

Minted mantel 11
blue paint colors

How to Accessorize Kitchen Countertops

A once in a blue moon occurrence happened at our house the other day…a clean kitchen. 😉 So, being the blogger that I am, I figured I better capitalize on that rare moment and take some pictures right before Hurricane Mitchell came home from school for the afternoon.  I’ve had some questions about how to … Read more

blue paint colors
Ice cream sundae party ideas

Ice Cream Sundae Party Ideas : Ice Cream Party Food

An ice cream party is a timeless classic perfect for any occasion. I remember back when I was in elementary school they used to have an ice cream sundae party every year at open house. I can’t remember all of the details, (because I’m old! lol!) but I’m sure it was a fundraiser designed to … Read more

Ice cream sundae party ideas
Spider wreath diy 1

Spider Wreath Diy

If you’ve been following the blog for awhile, you know that I love to make stuff.  But I also don’t have much patience when it comes to making things.  lol!  That means that most of my projects are super easy and usually utilize some sort of pre-made something or other.  I often walk down the … Read more

Spider wreath diy 1
midway modern farmhouse

Midway Modern Farmhouse Plans with Wrap Around Porch

As many of you have probably noticed on Instagram over the course of the last few weeks, 2019 has brought an exciting new project for PPD, one we are calling the Midway Modern Farmhouse.  Midway is a beautiful little city nestled in the hills just south of Park City.  Some friends of ours from Orange … Read more

midway modern farmhouse
Diy santa christmas cookies

How To Decorate Easy Santa Face Christmas Cookies

School is letting out for Christmas break today and so the celebrating is really about to start.  No more homework, alarm clocks or after school activities to interrupt the fun.  One tradition always on our to-do list is decorating Christmas cookies.  We’ve been doing it since the kids were tiny and it is always fun … Read more

Diy santa christmas cookies
Diy mustache straws 7

Fun and Easy DIY Mustache Straw Toppers

I am so excited to be joining forces with some of the most creative girls on the internet today and tomorrow for a fun Halloween DIY blog hop. I love any excuse to craft something up, and working with these girls is the best! If you are joining me from Bird’s Party blog, welcome!  I … Read more

Diy mustache straws 7
5 minute halloween spider headband diy

How To Make A Spider Headband

If you are looking for an easy DIY costume for Halloween look no further!   This DIY Spider Headband is it!    I am notoriously bad about waiting until the last minute to throw something together to wear for Halloween.  Without a doubt, the day of Halloween rolls around, and while I may have dressed up … Read more

5 minute halloween spider headband diy
Thanksgiving feast ideas 1

Classroom Thanksgiving Feast Ideas

I really want my kids to appreciate Thanksgiving for what it is and understand how important it is.  As part of our homeschool classroom party for Thanksgiving we had a wonderful Thanksgiving feast.  I thought I would share some of these ideas with you in case you are looking for some Thanksgiving Feast Ideas for … Read more

Thanksgiving feast ideas 1
free teacher appreciation printable

Thanks For An Amazing Year

I can’t believe that we are headed into the final month of school!  Teacher appreciation week is just around the corner and you know how much I love to celebrate our teachers!  If you are looking for the perfect teacher appreciation printable, look no further!  I have a collection of super cute teacher appreciation printables … Read more

free teacher appreciation printable
Christmas living room decorating ideas 5

Christmas Coffee Table Decor Ideas

Welcome to our Christmas living room!  I was so excited when Marty from A Stroll Thru Life asked if I was interested in participating in her Christmas tour again this year.  I just love being a part of her tours!   If you are new to my blog or joining me from Life on Virginia Street, welcome!  … Read more

Christmas living room decorating ideas 5