While we have spent the last few years blogging about home design, there has been a multitude of moving pieces behind the scenes. Every move, flip, and renovation has been a piece in the puzzle toward grander plans. While God took us in MANY different directions, it was all calculated, with one goal in mind: freedom. We've been hesitant to share our financial goals as they are immensely personal and rather "taboo" in the blogging world. We don't ever want anyone to compare their situation to ours, or anyone else's, in a negative way. In addition, of course, we always fear judgement. Anytime we "put ourselves out there," we fear that friends and strangers will judge us for being "too this" or "too that." While sharing your life on the internet is not for everyone, it is something we choose to do. We have made many friends on this platform, have learned from others, and have loved the creative avenues we have embarked on due to this blog!

Ty and I are honored to be featured in Homeslice Midwest's website launch! Nicole at HSM created the site in order to connect interiors enthusiasts around the Midwest. Her unique platform cultivates inspiration through sharing home tours and design resources. Our minimal mid-century Ada home tour is live on HSM. Ty and I, as we recently sold the Ada house, loved seeing these images of our home, and even more, loved reading Nicole's depiction of our philosophy. She truly grasped the essence of who we are, and how minimalism and travel play into our design process.  Read the full feature here complete with more images, follow Homeslice Midwest on Instagram, and tag your #HSMnest! 

Currently, I’m enjoying one of Southern Florida’s most beautiful beaches. It’s 75 degrees and “cloudy.” I’ve learned that when Florida’s weather forecast predicts a “cloudy” day, they are referring to (literally) a handful of clouds. The sky is bright blue and sunny, with a few fluffy intruders unsuccessfully blocking the sun’s rays. This Midwesterner has found herself writing this blog post while finding solace from the sun in shade provided by a small straw hut-like structure separating the white sandy beach from the neighboring coastal homes. Today, I’m here to share a glimpse into one of the reasons “why” we decided to re-design our life, foregoing consumption to find simplicity.

Ty is an exceptional gift-giver. This year, he was in charge of all of the gift giving, except for one recipient whom I claimed, my mother. My mother is a home-obsessed house flipper (currently flipping her 20th house!!) who loves home magazines, HGTV, hunting the MLS, and moving. And they say you become your mother..... She is also a mother of nine children (yes, you read that right). She's brilliant in the kitchen and is the ultimate hostess, often cooking for and hosting our large family (9 siblings, 5 spouses, 4 grand children, plus Mom and Dad). Today, I'm sharing some quick gift ideas for the "Sharon's" in your life - the ones who have a knack for making guests feel at home! ​

Are you tired of your email inbox filling up with Black Friday / Cyber Monday emails? I am. I struggle with this season as consumerism is rampant. I do not suggest that you buy things you don't need, without carefully considering the time and space it will require in your life. However, I DO condone wanting until these weekend sales to make pending, premeditated purchases (like a sofa, new coffee table, instant pot, etc.). For example, I have been eyeing these boots since last winter. I finally purchased them. It was not an emotional, impulsive purchase. Rather, it was calculated. I waited until a great deal, and gave myself time to make sure they served a purpose. 

CB2 has become one of my favorite sources. We are contemplating this marble coffee table for our new living room. I've always loved this shelf situation, and can't believe the price on this pendant (which is similar to our master bath light!)

I've begun ordering faucets, hardware, and other fun things for the condo! I am pretty PUMPED for some of the items I've found on the world wide web. Because Black Friday sales are live across the web, I'm sharing these items now rather than wait until the tiny is done and I have pretty pictures! Now, Let's not forget that the I am dealing with high end taste (brass faucets, matte black fixtures....all the fancy things) on a STRICT budget! The items below are things that I have found that feel high end, yet with a modest price tag. ​

The Christmas season is upon us! Black Friday is the pinnacle of consumerism, and while it can be fun, it's become a little bit crazy! It has taken over Thanksgiving--anyone remember when Black Friday was actually on Friday?! As we approach the holidays, we thought we'd share some gift ideas for the minimalist or aspiring minimalist in your life. When a friend or family member is working diligently to have and purchase less, it's good to know it's not about deprivation; it's about being intentional and not taking in more than one needs. As such, we created this list of ideas and items that add value and don't add clutter or excess. Enjoy!