Church.
A candid reflection on why a young family stopped attending church — and what faith looks like outside the pews.
A big sectional couch can completely transform the way a living room feels and functions. Beyond simply offering generous seating, a sectional creates natural zones within an open floor plan, making it easier to entertain guests while keeping everyday family life comfortable. Some days our kids walk out the door looking like a rainbow exploded in their closet—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way. Why We Let Our Kids Dress Themselves, Mismatched and Proud If you’ve ever wondered whether to let them own their mismatched style, you’re in good company. When selecting a sectional for a modern apartment, consider the depth of the cushions, the fabric's durability, and how the piece will anchor the room's overall palette. Neutral tones often work best, allowing throw pillows and area rugs to introduce color and texture. With the right proportions, a sectional becomes more than furniture; it becomes the heart of the home where people naturally gather.
Christmas gift ideas for her often feel overwhelming, but thoughtful gifting does not require extravagant spending. The best presents reflect the recipient's personality, daily routines, and hidden desires. Life gets busy, but that doesn't mean you can’t gather the people you love. If you’re looking to fill your table without the stress, here’s how to pull off a cozy, low-effort get-together. How to host a last-minute potluck dinner with friends Consider items that elevate everyday moments, such as cozy textiles, curated home fragrance sets, or personalized keepsakes that tell a story. Experiences also make memorable gifts, from cooking classes to weekend getaways, offering time together rather than just another object. Paying attention to hints dropped throughout the year is the key to finding something meaningful. Wrapping the gift beautifully and pairing it with a handwritten note adds a layer of care that no store-bought card can replicate.
Gray bathroom floor tile has become a staple in contemporary interior design for good reason. The color gray provides a neutral foundation that complements nearly any fixture color, from crisp white vanities to brushed brass hardware. Gray tiles also hide water spots and soap residue far better than lighter alternatives, making them a practical choice for busy households. Whether you prefer large-format porcelain planks for a seamless look or classic hexagonal tiles for visual interest, the options are nearly endless. Pairing gray flooring with warm wood accents or soft textiles prevents the space from feeling cold or sterile, creating a bathroom that feels both spa-like and inviting. Looking for a way to tame the chaos of crayons and glue sticks? A storage solution for kids’ art supplies that makes cleanup fun
Restoration Hardware has long influenced how people approach home furnishing, championing a style that blends industrial elements with warm, lived-in comfort. The brand's aesthetic has inspired countless homeowners to embrace neutral palettes, natural materials, and statement lighting fixtures. While the price points may be high, the design principles are accessible to anyone willing to adapt them. Recreating that look can be as simple as choosing linen curtains, aged leather seating, and matte black accents. The goal is not to copy a catalog but to capture the essence of relaxed sophistication that makes a house feel genuinely lived in and loved.
Kitchen window decor is an often-overlooked opportunity to add warmth and character to one of the busiest rooms in the home. Because kitchens see heavy traffic, moisture, and cooking oils, window treatments need to be both functional and stylish. Cafe curtains offer a charming compromise, providing privacy while allowing natural light to pour in from above. Roman shades in natural fibers bring texture without overwhelming the space, while simple valances can frame the window beautifully. For those who prefer an open look, styling the sill with small potted herbs or a collection of glass jars creates an inviting vignette that changes with the seasons.
Decorating with houseplants brings life and vibrancy to any interior, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Beyond their obvious aesthetic appeal, houseplants improve air quality and can even boost mood and productivity. Choosing the right plants for your space requires considering light levels, humidity, and how much care you are willing to provide. Low-maintenance options like pothos, snake plants, and ZZ plants thrive in a variety of conditions, making them perfect for beginners. Grouping plants of varying heights and leaf textures creates a layered, gallery-like display. Stylish pots and stands complete the look, allowing greenery to become a sculptural element in the room.
Wall mirrors are powerful tools for transforming the perception of space within a home. Strategically placed mirrors can make a small room feel significantly larger by reflecting light and creating the illusion of depth. Beyond their practical function, mirrors serve as decorative focal points that can anchor a room's design. Oversized floor mirrors lean casually against walls for a modern look, while ornate framed mirrors add a touch of traditional elegance. Grouping several smaller mirrors in varied shapes creates an artful arrangement that draws the eye. Whatever your style, a well-chosen mirror is one of the most versatile decorating investments you can make.
The cyber Monday airline deals season has changed how travelers plan their vacations, offering significant savings for those willing to book strategically. While the discounts can be tempting, savvy shoppers know that flexibility is essential to securing the best fares. Being open to alternate airports, travel dates, and even destinations can unlock substantial savings. It is also wise to research the airline's baggage policies and cancellation rules before committing, as the cheapest ticket is not always the best value. Setting price alerts and comparing multiple booking platforms ensures you are getting a genuine deal rather than a marketing gimmick dressed up as a discount.
A rustic cabin interior embodies a design philosophy centered on simplicity, natural materials, and a deep connection to the outdoors. Exposed wood beams, stone fireplaces, and handcrafted furnishings create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that feels timeless. Modern rustic design softens these traditional elements with contemporary comforts, such as plush seating, layered textiles, and thoughtful lighting. The color palette typically draws from nature, featuring warm browns, muted greens, and soft creams. Decorating a cabin-inspired space is about embracing imperfection and authenticity, allowing the natural beauty of the materials to shine through rather than covering them with excessive ornamentation.
5 Tips For Surviving That First Post Labor Poo
We've talked about marriage and sex, breastfeeding and hemorrhoids, mornings and morning sickness. But the thing readers bring up most is that first post-labor poo. Here are five honest tips.
Top Ten Toys of All Time
Growing up as an 80s and 90s kid meant My Little Ponies and Polly Pockets — but the best toys, Kate argues, are the simplest ones: sticks, blankets, and cardboard boxes.
Church.
When people ask why we're not going to church, I say it's too far and Austin has to study. But even when we lived five minutes away, we slept in and made blueberry pancakes.
Q&A On Traditional Marriage With Zoe Dawn
A conversation with Kate's sister-in-law Zoe about traditional marriage that sparked a lively, sometimes heated, discussion in the comments section.
Is Sex Worth The Wait?
Kate lost her virginity at 19 and never regretted it — despite being raised in a school system that emphasized abstinence to the point of excess. A frank look at waiting.
Top Ten Tuesday Series
A recurring series covering toys, parenting tips, and product recommendations — always with Kate's signature blend of humor and honesty.