August 31, 2014
Years ago, I put together a closet-organization system in a local storage-solution store. I had never done it before, but I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly and easily it came together. If you are looking for a quick, rewarding…
August 24, 2014
I have a couple of guilty pleasures, such as cooking (and consuming) fatty, savory meals and watching reality television. I’ve found that a little bit of indulgence now and then can be wonderfully soothing, especially when done with a glass…
August 17, 2014
I just returned from my honeymoon. My husband, Scott, and I had an amazing time in Thailand and are slowly adjusting back to “normal” life. Now, I’m slowly counting down the days until summer’s end and the new school year’s…
August 10, 2014
I’ve been a little obsessed with paint lately. I have been on the hunt for an aqua shelf for months. I looked online and at all of my favorite local retailers, but the only ones I could find were way…
August 3, 2014
One of the things I like most about writing this column is I’m constantly finding friends, family and readers, who love telling me about things they are having trouble with or suggestions for story ideas. My friend Brianne recently asked…
July 27, 2014
When we found out we were moving from a condo to a home, we started shopping for things we’d finally be able to enjoy. A grill was first on our list, because our grilling had been limited to occasional beach…
July 20, 2014
Traveling inspires golden memories, and this guide to keepsakes helps bring them home I always write this column at least a few days ahead of time. But, this time around, I’m doing so with butterflies in my stomach. By the…
July 13, 2014
When dining al fresco, creating the right ambiance in your backyard is essential. Follow these steps to make your next under-the-stars celebration shine Today is my future mother-in-law’s birthday, and because she is sharing her birthday week with us for…
July 6, 2014
By preparing ahead, you can be free to play the good host when guests come calling We are officially one week from wedding week. Our friends and family start getting here in a few days, and we are anxiously planning…
June 29, 2014
Oftentimes, the little things are what make the biggest difference. When styling your kitchen, adding a backsplash is a simple way to take things up a notch The countdown is on. With fewer than 25 days until wedding day, we…
June 22, 2014
With land at a premium, especially here in Hawaii, vertical gardens are on the rise — literally! So move on up, and make the most of your yard space One of my favorite things about our “new” home is our…
June 15, 2014
Home cleaning may not be the first thing you think of when you see a bottle of vinegar, but below are some surprising solutions for your next spruce up This Father’s Day, I’m thinking of my dad, who loves to…
June 8, 2014
When wood begins to show time’s wear and tear, these simple tips utilize everyday items found around the house to smooth out unwanted marks My fiance and I just returned from a trip back home to Cleveland, where we are…
June 1, 2014
Ever get a little overzealous when turning off the lights and snap! — there goes the pull-chain? Below are simple steps for a frustration-free fix I’ve always been a little bit of a klutz, so it came as no surprise…
May 25, 2014
Elegant, understated and classic, crown molding makes a statement in any home. Consider this trio of tips when putting the finishing touch on your walls I can’t help but notice how much my preferences have changed over the years. While…
May 18, 2014
Winding down with an entertaining TV night is even better when a stylishly mounted TV is along for the ride. Here are the steps to installing one at home My fiance Scott and I love to unwind by watching TV.…
May 11, 2014
For a calming touch of decor, follow these steps to let the sights, sounds, luck and beauty of a potted water feature flow into your home Now that my fiancĂ©, Scott, and I live closer to the water, I’ve started…
May 4, 2014
Living in Hawaii, residents are all too familiar with the priceless value of space. These DIY tip-out drawer kits help to utilize every inch of yours With less than three weeks left in a busy semester, I’ve definitely put off…
April 27, 2014
One of the simplest ways to transform your environment into a spacious oasis is to take down a wall. Just ask these questions before you start I’ve always been somewhat of a TV junkie. It’s a guilty pleasure, but I…
April 20, 2014
Spring is the season of new beginnings. Refresh your wood cabinets with these helpful hints I love Easter. Ever since I was little, my family and I have always celebrated with a big brunch. To me, it feels more like…