• International Travel

    The Algarve in 3 Days

    The Algarve has my heart. Its limestone cliffs with red sandstone layers and beautiful blue water combined with a multitude of outdoor activities made for a dreamlike vacation. As with Lisbon, the people were the true stars of the trip. Their kindness, helpfulness, and genuine enjoyment of life are not to be missed (and definitely were not taken for granted).

  • Uncategorized

    April Updates on Mackinaw Road

    Happy May Day! Here’s to really hoping nice weather finds us soon. April was a fun month with spring break and a birthday celebration. Below are some April updates including a book, a rug or two, streaming shows, Mother’s Day gift suggestions, a roller skating theme party, and a patio sofa obsession. **This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you click and purchase, I may receive some compensation. Thank you! April Updates: Pineapple Street This book definitely makes my favorites list. It is well written, witty, and makes you think about your own social biases, family dynamics, and more. The author’s quick quips and small truths on social behavior…

  • Where to Get Great Views of Lisbon: Largos das Portas do Sol
    International Travel

    Lisbon in 5 Days

    I have said it before (to literally anyone who will listen lol) and I will say it again. For us, it was the people. The tiles of Lisbon are stunning and true works of art. The cliffs and gorgeous waters of The Algarve lead to audible gasps. But, the most inspiring part of our trip was the Portuguese people. We were greeted with genuine kindness and understanding and patience again and again and again. And since it is difficult to put into words the feeling of a place, you will just have to go to experience it for yourselves! In the meantime, here is a guide of things that you…

  • Fashion

    A Spring Dresses Round Up

    I love a good spring dresses round up. While I tend toward polka dots, ruffles, and/or stripes in very neutral colors, I tried to include a little something for everyone. With Easter right around the corner, there are some floral options as well. I’ve listed the dresses according to price points at the time of this writing (some were/are are on sale). I really wish I was in the market for a new dress because this round up has some beautiful options! DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you click and purchase, I may receive some compensation at no extra cost to you. Thank you! Spring Dresses:…

  • Dining Room Accent Chair
    Uncategorized

    Mackinaw Road March Updates

    Although March isn’t quite over, now seems like a good time for a blog post. March updates include a book, a game, floor registers, an Instagram wall sconce winner, cute spring shoes, and a chair that is equally beautiful and functional in our home. **DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you click and purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Fashion,  International Travel,  US Travel

    Spring Vacation Outfit Packing List

    We are headed out on our longest trip as a family. Nine days away, no access to convenient laundry. This most certainly calls for a Vacation Outfit Packing List. The weather is supposed to be in the mid 60s. We will be walking a lot. Hopefully, some light hiking too. Nothing too fancy but maybe an outfit or two for a nicer dinner. Anyway, here is the packing list. (I’ll probably refer to a version of it for the kids too but kids can really get away with any outfit. They already have their favorites that they wear regardless of the weather, so there is that lol.) I like that…

  • Early Spring Living Room Decor
    Uncategorized

    February Updates on Mackinaw Road

    Hi there! We are getting closer and closer to spring. Yay!!! I switched out our mantel and took away the plaid (and then R added a little bit back ;-). On the docket from February: our living room mantel, a new book, a new travel-design book, art in the kitchen, new joggers, and planters I am eyeing from Anthropologie. But not in that order. **This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you click and purchase, I may receive some compensation. Thank you! February Updates: Our Living Room Mantel I like to incorporate hints of spring into our decorations starting in mid February. To keep our hopes up but also…

  • US Travel

    Southern California in 4 Days

    Southern California in 4 Days We traveled to California in January in search of warmer temperatures and the sunshine. It was definitely warmer than Michigan and we did see some sun but we were there at the tail end of the rainstorms so also experienced some of that. If this feels like a deja vu kind of post, I get it! We’ve been to Southern California three times now as a family and an additional time as a couple. (Fingers crossed,) it is becoming a family trip tradition! You can check out these previous Southern California posts below: Laguna Beach/Dana Point: Where to Stay, Where to Eat, and What to…

  • MCM Living Room Layout
    Styling

    Midcentury Lodge: Creating a Warm, Polished, and Unique Space

    I’m so excited to share our friend’s Midcentury Modern Lodge with you! Disclaimer- I had very little to do with the overall design. I just got to come in, help with some art, one or two decor items, and play with the living room layout. It turned out great! (Pats self on back.) HOUSE HISTORY Before we begin, one of the fascinating aspects of this house is its overall design. It is considered to be a Passive House. I hadn’t heard this term previously and my friend explained that a passive house is one that is designed to require minimal heating and cooling. That is my dream house for both…