As the aroma of backyard barbecues fills the air and fireworks twinkle in the night sky, we find ourselves celebrating America’s birthday here in the US. While we embrace this cherished holiday with family, it’s also a perfect moment to pause and reflect on the whirlwind that was June. We apologize for the slight delay in sharing our monthly recap, but we promise this edition is packed with exciting updates and a few never-before-seen peeks into our latest adventures! In a grand effort to truly redeem ourselves (can you name that movie?), we’ve also dug through our archives to link to some of our favorite Fourth of July themed posts from years past, offering a patriotic blast from the past for those eager for some festive inspiration. You can revisit delightful ideas here, here, and here. Beyond the seasonal festivities, this recap features some truly special moments, including a brand new family portrait captured by the wonderfully talented Katie B during our trip to Atlanta. Seriously, how did she manage to get a shot where no one is crying?! For those of you who love a good nostalgic journey, you can also explore all our monthly superlatives, chronicling our home improvement and family adventures all the way back to January 2011, right here. It’s an incredible collection, almost a year and a half’s worth of projects and memories condensed into just 17 posts. We hope you enjoy looking back as much as we do, and from our family to yours, Happy Fourth of July!
Most Refreshing: The breathtaking new vista of our house, now that the dense, overgrown bush fence has officially been transformed into a lush, green expanse of grass. This project was a true labor of love, requiring significant effort to remove the old, sprawling bushes that had long dominated the front of our property, effectively creating a visual barrier. Replacing them with a pristine lawn has not only dramatically improved our curb appeal but has also opened up the entire space, making the house feel more inviting and expansive. Looking back at this “before and after” picture now, especially with the summer heat having since kissed the new grass with a slightly browner hue, reminds us just how much of a positive impact this transformation had. It truly feels like we’ve given our home a much-needed breath of fresh air and a more welcoming presence.
Biggest Surprise: The unexpected ease with which we were able to demolish the old, unused balcony that had been an eyesore and a structural impediment to our plans for a magnificent new deck. We had mentally prepared ourselves for a formidable challenge, anticipating hours of strenuous work and potential complications. However, to our genuine surprise, the balcony came off with remarkable simplicity and speed. It’s still a little baffling to recall how effortlessly such a substantial structure yielded to our tools and determination. This surprisingly smooth demolition not only saved us time and effort but also provided an immense boost of confidence as we embarked on the larger deck construction project. We’re incredibly glad we didn’t attempt to repurpose or salvage that old, unstable structure; getting it out of the way was the best first step we could have taken.
Most Worth The Wait: Our exquisite new scalloped rug, which now graces our kitchen floor, bringing a delightful touch of whimsy and elegance to the heart of our home. This wasn’t just any spontaneous purchase; it was the culmination of a rather extensive and, at times, exhausting rug search. We scoured countless stores, both online and brick-and-mortar, desperately seeking that perfect piece that would tie our kitchen together and infuse it with personality. Our journey included a pretty extensive rug search, featuring many candidates that just didn’t quite hit the mark. Finally, during a visit to Urban Outfitters, we stumbled upon this unique scalloped beauty, and it was love at first sight. Its distinctive pattern and inviting texture instantly felt right, proving that sometimes, the best things truly do come to those who wait and search diligently. It perfectly complements our kitchen’s aesthetic, adding both comfort underfoot and a significant stylistic upgrade.
Biggest Pop (Indoor): The remarkable transformation achieved by finally adding some much-needed color to our kitchen stools. For too long, these functional pieces had blended into the background, doing their job without truly contributing to the vibrant personality of our kitchen. We realized they were a blank canvas just waiting for an artistic touch. With a splash of carefully chosen paint, these stools have been revitalized, and the change is astonishing. They now serve as a delightful focal point, adding a lively burst of cheer and character to our kitchen peninsula. This simple, affordable update proves that sometimes, the smallest changes can yield the biggest visual impact, elevating a mundane space into something truly special and inviting.
Biggest Pop (Outdoor): The exciting introduction of a brand new accent color to our patio space: a wonderfully vibrant tomato red! This bold, cheerful hue comes courtesy of these fantastic new Adirondack chairs, which now stand proudly on our patio. Acquiring these chairs was a small victory in itself, as we had literally saved up for them, stashing cash-in-a-jar style until we had enough. This patient saving made their arrival even more satisfying. The tomato red is such an invigorating choice, injecting a playful yet sophisticated energy into our outdoor living area. It stands out beautifully against the greens and natural tones of our backyard, instantly elevating the patio’s aesthetic and making it an even more inviting spot for relaxation and entertaining. It’s amazing how two simple chairs can completely redefine an outdoor space.
Biggest Tearjerker: This incredibly special custom-made plate, which we commissioned as an anniversary present for my wonderful parents. The idea was to create something deeply personal and meaningful, a piece that would resonate with the heart of our family. We chose to have our family’s simple dinner grace emblazoned onto this beautiful platter. When my mom unwrapped it and saw those familiar, cherished words immortalized on the ceramic, her eyes welled up with tears – and to be perfectly honest, a few of us might have gotten a little something in our own eyes too. It was a powerfully emotional moment, a testament to the enduring power of family, tradition, and thoughtful gestures. This plate isn’t just tableware; it’s a symbol of love, gratitude, and the bonds that hold us all together, destined to be a treasured heirloom for generations.
The “Never Thought I’d Do That!” Award: Taking a powerful saw directly to the brick exterior of our beloved house. This was undoubtedly one of those moments that made us pause and question our sanity! As the initial critical step in our ambitious deck construction project, it felt incredibly daunting and somewhat unnatural to intentionally cut into the very foundation of our home. There’s a certain reverence one holds for the structural integrity of a house, and to knowingly alter it with such a powerful tool was a bit nerve-wracking. However, despite the initial apprehension and the weirdness of it all, there was an undeniable thrill and excitement in finally diving headfirst into this major renovation. It was a leap of faith, signifying the official start of a project we’d been planning for ages, and a bold move that set the stage for our fantastic new outdoor living space.
Messiest: The aftermath of our bathroom renovation, specifically the floor, after we had vigorously demo-ed out the particularly sketchy and unloved tree border tile. Oh, the dust, the grout, the shattered pieces of tile – it was a scene of controlled chaos! This tile border had been an unfortunate holdover from a previous era, a design choice we were more than eager to bid farewell to. While the demolition itself was incredibly satisfying, the resulting mess was truly something to behold. Every surface seemed to be coated in a fine layer of tile dust, and walking across the bathroom floor felt like navigating a small construction zone. Despite the overwhelming grime, seeing that dated tile finally gone was worth every speck of dirt, knowing that it paved the way for a much-anticipated, cleaner, and more modern bathroom aesthetic.
Most Worldly: This delightful little jaunt around our local World Market store, which felt like a mini-vacation to far-flung corners of the globe without ever leaving our town. We embarked on this inspiring outing with a simple mission: to soak in the vibrant colors, unique textures, and eclectic designs that World Market is so renowned for, and then share all the fun and eye-catching items that captured our imagination. From intricate handcrafted textiles to exotic spices and globally inspired home decor, every aisle offered a new discovery. It was a wonderful reminder of how diverse and inspiring design can be, and how easy it is to infuse a touch of international flair into our own homes. This “window shopping” adventure not only sparked new decor ideas but also provided a lovely escape, even if just for an afternoon.
Most Sparkly: The stunning new glass subway tile that we meticulously installed in our bathroom, marking a significant step forward in our renovation efforts. This brilliant, reflective tile replaced the old, undesirable tree tile border that we had so gleefully demo-ed just the day before. The contrast is truly night and day; where there once was dated and dingy, now there is sleek, modern, and absolutely radiant. The glass subway tile catches and bounces light beautifully, making the bathroom feel instantly brighter, more spacious, and undeniably luxurious. It’s a sophisticated choice that adds a touch of contemporary elegance, proving that the right tile can completely transform the ambiance of a room. Every time we step into the bathroom, we’re greeted by its fresh, clean sparkle, reminding us of the progress we’ve made.
Most Technical: This detailed post about some of our go-to Photoshop tricks for adjusting and enhancing photos. We know that not everyone is a digital wizard, but we truly enjoy sharing insights into the more technical side of blogging and photography. This particular article delved into some “nitty-gritty” aspects of photo editing, offering practical tips and techniques we use to make our project photos look their best. It was a slightly different pace from our usual DIY content, but we loved pulling back the curtain on our creative process. What made it even better was the incredible interaction in the comment section, where many of you shared your own Photoshop hacks and asked insightful questions, turning it into a fantastic collaborative learning experience for everyone involved. It’s always rewarding to connect with our readers over shared interests, even the more technical ones.
Most Sentimental: The charming little arrangement of frames we thoughtfully curated and hung on the wall in our bathroom. Each frame holds a precious photograph, a visual chronicle captured on each of our four wedding anniversaries. This evolving gallery is a beautiful reminder of our journey together, showcasing moments of joy, growth, and enduring love. With our fifth anniversary just around the corner, this coming Saturday, we’re eagerly anticipating adding another special memory to that empty frame – here’s hoping we manage to capture a decent (or even great!) picture for it! Update: As Sherry, with her uncanny foresight, predicted, those backyard-sourced flowers sadly wilted well before they could reach our fifth anniversary. Ah well, at least they were a free, fleeting touch of nature! The photos, however, remain timeless. This display is more than just decor; it’s a deeply personal timeline of our lives, bringing warmth and cherished memories into our daily routine.
Heaviest: The mighty auger that we rented for the formidable task of digging the essential holes for our deck posts. This piece of equipment was certainly a beast, and handling it felt like a significant workout! Its weight and power were undeniable, making the task of digging deep, precise holes less about manual labor and more about wrestling a motorized force. Despite its heft, the auger proved to be an indispensable tool, saving us immense time and effort compared to digging each post hole by hand. While my face in these pictures might suggest an epic struggle, I can assure you it wasn’t quite as bad as it looks – though it definitely tested our strength and resolve. This powerful machine was a crucial player in laying the solid foundation for our exciting new deck.
Shiftiest: The furniture in our bedroom, which underwent a significant and long-overdue rearrangement. For far too long, we had adhered to a “crazy symmetrical” layout that, while aesthetically balanced on paper, simply didn’t provide the best flow or functionality for the room. It took us a surprising year and a half to finally acknowledge and address this! But once we did, the transformation was remarkable. We finally broke away from the rigid symmetry, opting for a new layout that breathed fresh life into the space, making it feel more open, intuitive, and ultimately, more comfortable. This shift wasn’t just about moving furniture; it was about rethinking how we use and experience our bedroom, proving that sometimes, breaking old habits leads to the best results. Haha, better late than never!
Biggest Risk: The nerve-wracking decision to cut the tall posts off our beloved bed, affectionately known as ‘Ed The Bed’. This was not a decision we took lightly. The thought of taking a saw to a perfectly good piece of furniture, especially our central bedroom piece, filled us with a mix of apprehension and excitement. There was always the risk that we might ruin it, or that the envisioned outcome wouldn’t be as good as we hoped. However, it was a risk that absolutely, unequivocally paid off! The removal of the posts completely transformed Ed, giving our bedroom a much-improved, lighter, and airier vibe. It opened up the space, making the room feel larger and more serene. Thank goodness we took that leap of faith; the result is a testament to trusting our design instincts, even when it means taking a saw to something substantial.
Biggest Sourpuss: Yours truly, after receiving the disheartening news that we had failed our initial deck inspection. This moment was a significant blow to our morale. After dedicating two full days of hard work, sweat, and planning to the deck’s early stages, learning that our efforts were deemed insufficient felt like a total waste. The frustration and disappointment were palpable; it’s tough to invest so much time and energy only to be told you need to go back to the drawing board. My face in that moment probably perfectly captured the essence of a sourpuss! However, as is often the case with DIY projects, setbacks are just part of the journey. Thankfully, our spirits were lifted when we received some good news last week, proving that persistence and problem-solving eventually lead to success. It’s a reminder that even in the face of temporary failures, there’s always a path forward.
Shakiest: The cameraperson at the helm of our most recent outdoor tour video – and yes, Sherry, I’m looking at you! While her enthusiasm for capturing our outdoor transformation is unmatched, her camera work in this particular video was, shall we say, a little… energetic. The footage had a delightful, albeit unintentional, ‘found footage’ feel to it, leaving viewers (and us!) wondering if a small earthquake had occurred during filming. One might suggest she needs to cut back on the caffeine, but the funniest part is that there isn’t even caffeine in her diet to blame! It just goes to show that even the most dedicated DIYers can have their shaky moments, literally. Despite the slight wobbles, the video still provided a fantastic glimpse into our evolving outdoor spaces, a testament to the charm of authenticity!
Most Well-Rounded: The fantastic new rug that now anchors our home office, bringing a much-needed sense of completeness and warmth to this hardworking space. This circular rug not only adds a soft, inviting texture underfoot but also visually defines the work area, making the office feel more organized and cohesive. Its geometric shape and subtle pattern perfectly complement the room’s existing decor, contributing to a harmonious and productive environment. And yes, in the background, you might spot two familiar faces – the “workaholics” (that’s us!) making our customary cameos. While the rug is perfectly well-rounded, we certainly aren’t always, constantly striving to balance our projects with family life. This rug, however, serves as a grounded and stylish foundation for all our creative endeavors.
Most Helpful: Our little Clara! Or at least, that’s what we enthusiastically tell her, especially when it comes to keeping her happily occupied (and feeling incredibly important) during our trips to the home improvement store. We’ve discovered the perfect strategy: asking for her vital assistance whenever we’re pushing the cart. Her tiny hands gripping the handle, feeling like she’s truly contributing, makes her face light up with purpose. She’s always eager to dive in and lend a hand, even for the largest and most unwieldy loads, such as the substantial pieces of wood destined for our brand new bedroom headboard. It’s a wonderful way to involve her in our DIY adventures, fostering a sense of participation and pride from a young age. Her “help” might sometimes be more about moral support than heavy lifting, but her enthusiasm is truly invaluable.
Most Improved: Our bedroom, which has truly undergone a significant transformation and is unequivocally on the “up-and-up” in terms of style and comfort, if you ask us! The biggest catalyst for this wonderful improvement has been the recent addition of this stunning new upholstered headboard. This single piece of furniture has completely redefined the focal point of the room, adding a luxurious softness, sophisticated texture, and a touch of bespoke elegance that was previously missing. It elevates the entire bed, making it feel like a cozy, inviting sanctuary. The new headboard has brought a sense of completion and polish to the bedroom, making it not just a place to sleep, but a truly beautiful and restful retreat. We couldn’t be happier with how this space has evolved and improved, reflecting our personal style and creating a more serene atmosphere.
Most Unresolved: Okay, I’ll readily admit that blogging about our little tiff over an accidental (and entirely well-intentioned) trip to Goodwill with a towel bar that was absolutely NOT supposed to end up there was partly, maybe even mostly, motivated by a secret hope. I was banking on all of you, our wonderful readers, to validate my side of the story and emphatically declare that I was in the right! To my slight dismay (and amusement), while many of you indeed sided with me, an equally passionate number of you took the opposing view. This lively debate in the comments section just solidified the fact: the case of the wayward towel bar is officially not closed. It remains a hilariously unresolved domestic disagreement, a testament to the minor (and sometimes major) squabbles that are just part of shared home improvement adventures, even for us!
Most Likely To Make Situations Awkward: Us – or more specifically, Sherry in particular – at the memorable Haven Conference, where we had the incredible honor of giving the keynote address. While the official duties were certainly a highlight, it was the “after-hours” antics that truly earned us this superlative! Sherry has a special knack for injecting a unique brand of playful weirdness into any situation. We might have been caught “grinding” on other unsuspecting bloggers (all in good fun, of course!), letting our kids (which, yes, included our beloved dog, Burger) happily run amok, and generally just having an absolute blast while making every situation delightfully memorable. It was a whirlwind of networking, learning, and unapologetically being ourselves, proving that even at professional conferences, a little bit of awkward charm can go a long way in making lasting impressions and fostering genuine connections.
Most Disappointing (To Some): The reveal of our post playfully entitled “The Vow.” The anticipation was clearly high, with many readers likely hoping for a celebrity sighting or at least some juicy Hollywood gossip. Imagine their surprise, and perhaps slight disappointment, when they discovered that our “Vow” wasn’t actually about the dreamy Channing Tatum or any romantic movie drama. Instead, it featured some utterly charming and creative 4th of July tablesettings that Sherry had whipped up purely for the joy of it! While it might not have been the cinematic reveal some were hoping for, we believe Sherry’s festive and imaginative decor ideas for Independence Day offered a different kind of delight. It was a fun little twist, showcasing that our “vows” often lean more towards inspiring home decor than silver screen heartthrobs.
Friendliest: These adorable “Twenty Northern Friends” that were the highlight of my thoughtful Father’s Day gift. This unique present was a truly heartwarming and personalized gesture, bringing a smile to my face with its charming array of animal friends. It reminded me of a fun fact from my past: Sidenote: In high school, I actually was voted “Friendliest” a couple of times – though I must sheepishly admit, that was strictly within the realm of band superlatives, so perhaps I shouldn’t boast too excessively about it! Regardless, receiving these friendly little characters for Father’s Day was a sweet moment, reinforcing the joy of thoughtful gifts and the playful spirit of friendship, whether human or animal-shaped.
Smiliest: The three of us, miraculously all captured smiling in this utterly sweet and genuine family portrait, expertly taken by the lovely and talented Katie Bower during our recent visit. Anyone with young children knows that getting everyone to look at the camera, let alone smile simultaneously and genuinely, is nothing short of a Herculean feat. Katie B truly worked a miracle here! And yes, for those eagle-eyed observers, you’re not mistaken: Sherry is indeed subtly pinning Clara’s hands down. Our little one is quite the flailer, just like her mom, so a bit of gentle intervention was necessary to achieve this picture-perfect moment. The result is a cherished snapshot that perfectly encapsulates our family’s joy and a testament to Katie’s incredible patience and skill. This portrait is a priceless memory, radiating happiness and capturing a rare moment of collective composure!
So there you have it – a comprehensive and heartfelt look back at our whirlwind month of June! Beyond all the exciting projects and personal milestones we’ve just shared, June was also a period of intense focus on some pretty hefty book proofing, with our publication date steadily approaching in less than a month. It’s truly a rewarding experience to step back from the perpetual “to-do” list for a moment, to reflect on the accomplishments, and genuinely appreciate all the things that are now “done-zo.” We firmly believe that these regular recaps are crucial for maintaining our momentum and enthusiasm, especially when facing the daunting prospect of tackling big projects like our extensive deck construction, upcoming bathroom and bedroom updates, various other outdoor enhancements, and everything else that sits patiently at the top of our priority list. This sense of achievement fuels our motivation for what’s next.
Now, we turn the question over to you, our amazing community: What are you most proud of accomplishing in this past month? Perhaps it was a DIY triumph, a personal goal achieved, or a quiet moment of family connection. And looking ahead, what exciting tasks or cherished experiences are you eagerly looking forward to checking off your list in July? It truly feels like 2012 just began, and suddenly, almost imperceptibly, we’re already halfway through the year! Oh, where has the time gone? It’s a constant reminder to savor every moment, every project, and every milestone, big or small. We love hearing about your journeys and look forward to reading your reflections in the comments below!