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A New York Day at The Plaza, Love Shack Fancy & Ralph Lauren

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Hello Friends,

I feel like I can finally breathe a little. I just finished my last work trip of 2026, and with September officially here, it feels like I can slow down just a bit.

I recently filmed an end-of-summer video for YouTube, and I’ll be sharing it on my channel soon. Lauren is all moved in and has officially started her senior year of college, which is hard to believe!

I also finally finished the guest bedroom, and I’m so excited to share it with you. And just like that, I’ll be kicking off the Guild show house season here soon. There is always something happening this time of year, and I’m looking forward to sharing it all with you.

Before we move too far into September, I wanted to finish sharing a little more from my New York trip. There were so many beautiful places I visited while I was there, but I especially wanted to take you along to a few of the stores that caught my eye—The Plaza, Love Shack Fancy, and Ralph Lauren.

Each one had its own unique New York charm, and together they made for such a fun and inspiring day in the city.

 

photo credit: Mrs. Shockley 

 

Of course, I couldn’t help but stop by the Ralph Lauren store while I was in New York. I absolutely love the women’s side—it truly is a dream. This was my second time visiting, and I actually shared my first tour of the store back in 2022.

There is so much to love about the space, and I found myself taking in all of the details and drawing plenty of inspiration for my own dressing room. From the beautiful displays to the timeless interiors, it is one of those places where you could spend hours just taking it all in.

After looking around, we headed downstairs to the pastry shop for lattes and a few pastries. We found seats in the gorgeous café and enjoyed our treats before heading back out into the city. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next up was LoveShackFancy, and while I’ll admit the clothes are a little young for me, I absolutely fell in love with the store itself. The interiors are a dream—so feminine, romantic, and filled with the prettiest details. From the floral wallpaper and draped fabrics to the antique-inspired furniture, beautiful chandeliers, and fresh flowers, every corner felt thoughtfully styled. I found myself taking more inspiration from the decor than the clothing! There were so many little details that I’m filing away for future projects, especially as I continue working on my own home. It was definitely worth a stop just to take in all of the beautiful design inspiration.

 

 

 

 

 

The last place we visited was The Plaza, and I have to say, walking up to the hotel and stepping inside felt like something out of a dream. The architecture, the details, and the history of the space are absolutely beautiful, and I’m so glad I had the chance to see it in person. But if I’m being completely honest, something felt a little off during our visit. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I never really felt welcomed or comfortable there. We stopped into the gift shop, and at one point I got the feeling that the woman working there thought I was stealing. Shortly after, a security guard came into the area and seemed to be looking around, even though my family and I were the only ones in the shop. Perhaps I misread the situation, and I certainly don’t want to assume anyone’s intentions, but it left me with an uncomfortable feeling. As beautiful as The Plaza is, I left feeling like it just wasn’t a place I would choose to visit again. Sometimes you can’t quite explain a feeling—you just know when something doesn’t feel right.

Despite the feeling I had at The Plaza, our trip to New York this year turned out to be such a wonderful adventure. We made so many special memories as a family, and that is what I will remember most.

We took Lauren to the Museum of the Moving Image, where she got to see the Jim Henson exhibition featuring the Muppets. She was absolutely in heaven! She also discovered a store called Museum of Nostalgia, which was right up her alley. She has such a love for the 80s, which I have to admit I find so interesting, but I love seeing the things that make her happy.

We also had some wonderful meals, spent time with dear friends, and simply enjoyed being together in the city. New York always seems to have something new to discover, and even with a few unexpected moments, this trip was one we will remember fondly.

I certainly hope I get the chance to visit New York again soon. There is still so much I want to see, do, and, of course, shop!

 

 

 

 

August Favorites ~ 2026

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Hello Everyone,

I hope you’ve been enjoying the little snippets of our recent trip to New York. I have to say, I really loved walking around the city this time. For a few moments, I pretended that I actually lived there—and I have to admit, I could easily get used to it!

There were so many wonderful stores, restaurants, and endless options to explore. I loved every bit of it. One thing I really hoped to find was an antique store, but sadly, I didn’t quite make it to one this time. I’ll just have to save that adventure for my next visit!

It’s time for another round of monthly favorites! From beautiful finds for the home to little luxuries I’ve been enjoying, these are a few things that have made their way into my life lately.

 

photo credits: Mrs. Shockley 

 

First up is this gorgeous blue-and-white ginger jar I found at HomeGoods. It’s quite large, and I absolutely love the shape. It feels so different from the other jars I have, and the design actually has a vintage look that I really adore. Needless to say, I had to bring it home!

Then, after getting back from NYC, I stopped by Consign by Design and found this beautiful crystal vase for only $40. It’s huge, too, and I love how substantial it feels. I’m thinking about putting a candle inside to give it a little extra glow. It’s one of those unexpected finds that makes decorating so much fun!

 

 

Third is this beautiful table setting at Dior in New York. This is honestly one of my favorite things to shop for—and simply to look at. I will always love shopping for clothes and shoes, but lately, shopping for dinnerware has become a new favorite of mine. There is something so special about finding beautiful pieces that make everyday meals feel a little more elevated.

And to the right is a little self-care moment. Lately, I’ve been trying to light candles at night while I’m in bed watching YouTube, and it has quickly become one of my favorite rituals. There is something about the soft glow and beautiful scent that makes the evening feel extra cozy.

Here, I’m burning Diptyque Tuberose alongside Nabela Noor’s Manor White Musk candle. Both are absolutely beautiful and make the perfect pairing for a quiet night in.

 

 

Continuing with home décor, I’ve been trying to find a beautiful way to organize my bangles and bracelets on my vanity. I’ve tried several different solutions, but somehow, they always seem to make the space feel cluttered.

Then, while browsing an antique store, I came across this gorgeous vintage soup tureen. I immediately loved it and, of course, did not want to leave it behind. But lately, I’ve started asking myself a few questions whenever I’m shopping at antique stores: “Okay, where is this going?” “How will it work in my everyday life?” and “Can I actually use it?”

With this piece, I started thinking about my vanity—and those bracelets. Then it hit me: why not use the soup tureen as storage for my bangles and bracelets?

And honestly, how beautiful and chic is that? I love finding ways to give vintage pieces a new purpose, especially when they can be both functional and beautiful. Now my bracelets are organized, easily accessible, and displayed in a way that feels intentional rather than cluttered. It’s exactly the kind of home décor find I love.

 

 

 

 

Here is one of the bracelets that is now happily living in my vintage soup tureen. I found this acrylic tortoise-shell bracelet on Amazon, and I love the combination of the warm tortoise-shell pattern with the gold detail. It’s comfortable to wear, easy to style, and, best of all, it’s at a great price. It’s one of those accessories that looks much more expensive than it actually is.

Next up are these gorgeous tassels that I ordered. I love using them as bag charms on my Hermès-inspired bags. They add such a chic little finishing touch and make the bags feel even more special. I love how something as simple as a tassel can completely change the look of a bag!

 

 

Now for one of my NYC Madison Avenue purchases. I decided to step inside Loro Piana and have a look around, and I’m so glad I did. I first learned about the brand through Lydia Millen and the Duchess of Sussex, and I immediately understood the appeal. Everything felt beautifully simple, exceptionally well made, and incredibly elegant.

Naturally, I found myself gravitating toward the scarves, where I discovered the Enciclopedia del Cardo Tie Band. I was immediately drawn to the beautiful botanical prints and the soft blush background. It felt feminine, timeless, and just a little unexpected.

I wore it with my striped dress to the office and absolutely loved the combination. There was something so pretty about the way the delicate flowers played against the stripes. It was one of those outfits that reminded me how much I love mixing prints when the colors and patterns complement each other.

 

 

And last, but certainly not least, are these gorgeous tortoise-shell office folders from Kate Spade that I found on Amazon. You get six file folders for just $18, which I think is such a steal. They aren’t made of paper and have a beautiful glossy finish, making them feel much more elevated than your typical office folders. Even something as practical as organizing paperwork can be chic!

I hope you all enjoyed seeing some of my favorite finds for the month of August. I can’t believe September is almost here! This month has been filled with so many fun discoveries, from home décor and accessories to little luxuries that make everyday life feel a bit more special.

I’m planning to film an end-of-summer video for my YouTube channel, but before I can officially wrap up the travel year, I have one more work trip to take. My newsletter will also be hitting your inboxes soon, so be sure to keep an eye out for that.

Thank you so much for spending a little time with me and my August favorites. Have a wonderful week!

 

  • This post is not sponsored. Affiliate links attached. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Day at the Met: Art, History, and Inspiration in New York

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Hello Friends,

This is such a busy week! I have a few Guild meetings, Lauren’s college move-in, and a Yin Yoga class on the calendar. But, more importantly, I’m still thinking about my lovely teatime at the Lowell Hotel.

Today, I’m sharing our next New York adventure—our very first visit to the Met Museum!

 

photo credits via: Mrs. Shockley 

 

 

 

Walking into the Met was a lot to take in! For one thing, it was very crowded, but the staff was incredibly nice and funny. There were a few older women at the reception desk trying to help dozens of visitors while taking pens out of each other’s hands. LOL! It was actually pretty funny to watch.

The architecture was breathtaking as soon as we entered the building. It was absolutely beautiful, with grand spaces and exhibits everywhere you looked. There was so much to see that I wasn’t quite sure where to begin!

 

 

I didn’t take a lot of photos because I really wanted to be present and enjoy the moment. These were a few of my favorite exhibits. I especially loved the stained-glass exhibit and this beautiful mural. Even the yellow color of the wall caught my eye—it made the artwork feel even more special.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get the information about the artists or the names of these pieces, but they definitely left an impression on me.

 

 

This photo does not do this piece justice. This was designed by Agnes F. Northrop and made by Tiffany Studios, New York. It was created in 1912. It is called the Garden Landscape. This is a majestic masterpiece. Conceived, commissioned and crafted by women, it highlights the important, often unrecognized role they played in Tiffany’s artistic enterprise. This was truly a captivating piece. 

 

 

 

There were a few rooms in the museum. This is the Baltimore Room. It was a room from the townhome build for merchant and shipowner Henry Craig. It served as the Craig family’s parlor. On the right is a painting by Vincent van Gogh called Roses. It is from 1890 and is one of my favorites from him. On the eve of his departure from the asylum in Saint Remy in May 1890, Van Gogh painted an exceptional group of four still lifes, to which both The Met’s Roses and Irises belong. 

Another interesting fact about this painting is that it was seized by the Nazis from Georg Simon Hirschland (1885-1942) in Essen in 1939, following Hirschland’s emigration to the United States in 1938. It was restituted to his heirs in New York in 1950. (info from the museum) 

 

 

Next are two Claude Monet paintings. The one on the left is called the Path through the Irises (1914-17). Irises, among Monet’s favorite flowers, lined the pathways leading up to the house and Japanese bridge on the artist’s property at Giverny. 

The one on the right is Water Lilies, 1919. One of Monet’s critics described this canvas of 1919 as waterlilies “in full flower asserting themselves… their golden discs encased in purple, against the cloudy waters”. (info from the museum) 

 

 

 

The grand marble building façade at the back is the Second Branch Bank of the United States, originally constructed on Wall Street in 1822–24 and later dismantled and reconstructed inside The Met. Its Greek Revival/Palladian design—with columns, pilasters, a triangular pediment, and symmetrical windows—creates the architectural centerpiece of the court. I thought that the look of this was so majestic sitting inside the Met. The fact that it is from the 1800s is incredible! 

 

 

 

And finally the reason why I came to the Met…. Belizaire. It took Lauren and I a few minutes to find this painting but when we did I just smiled. Now I know this painting holds a lot of weight. Especially in regards to our history in this country but it also speaks the truth to me. 

This painting is called Belizaire and the Frey Children. It was attributed to the French-American painter Jacques Guillaume Lucien Amans, painted around 1837. The painting shows three white children of the Frey family in a Louisiana landscape, with a Black teenager standing behind them. That teenager is Bélizaire, an enslaved Afro-Creole boy who belonged to the Frey family. Bélizaire isn’t pushed into the background as a servant or made into a stereotypical figure. Instead, he is physically elevated above the three children, leaning against a tree and looking thoughtful and self-possessed. The Met notes that this positioning gives him unusual visual importance for an African American subject in an American painting of this period.

At some point around the turn of the 20th century, someone from the Frey family deliberately painted over Bélizaire’s figure, effectively removing him from the family portrait. For decades, the painting was known as a portrait of three children in a Louisiana landscape. Bélizaire was approximately 15 years old when the portrait was painted. The Met’s research indicates that he survived the Civil War and eventually experienced freedom. Tragically, both Frey sisters died in 1837, the year the portrait was painted, while their brother died about nine years later.

And there’s an especially powerful irony: someone tried to erase Bélizaire from the picture, but the painting ultimately became famous precisely because he was recovered. The Met acquired it in 2023. 

I truly think that the captain that enslaved him loved him. That is just my opinion. It reminds me of a story regarding one of my ancestors whose enslaver but an ad in the newspaper around the 1700s looking for him because he escaped. He wanted my relative back and said in the article that “he was incredibly smart”. Needless to say, he never found my relative. 

I hope everyone enjoyed today’s post. Let me know in the comments what your thoughts are and if you have a favorite painting at the Met. 

 

 

 

 

An Afternoon with Dior: Lily of the Valley Tea

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Good Morning Friends,

We have returned from New York! This trip was a bit more relaxed than our previous visits. I didn’t want to visit any of the usual tourist attractions this time. Instead, I wanted to slow down, wander, enjoy beautiful meals, our friends, and simply experience the city at a more leisurely pace.

I’ll be sharing our New York adventures with you over the next few weeks, so I hope you’ll come along with me. I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying these last days of summer.

We are also gearing up to move Lauren back into her dorm for her SENIOR YEAR! I can hardly believe it. How is it possible that she is already beginning her senior year of college? It seems like just yesterday we were moving her into her freshman dorm. Wow—time really does fly!

But for now, let me take you back to one of my favorite afternoons in New York.

 

photos via: Mrs. Shockley 

 

There are afternoons in New York that feel almost dreamlike, and my Lily of the Valley Christian Dior tea at The Lowell Hotel was one of them.

From the moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere felt wonderfully removed from the city outside. The hotel was elegant and intimate, with beautiful cream-colored interiors, polished details, fresh flowers, and the softest golden light. And there was a delicate floral fragrance in the air that reminded me of jasmine—subtle, fresh, and wonderfully calming. It made the entire experience feel like entering a private garden in the middle of Manhattan.

 

 

The setting was especially beautiful for afternoon tea. I settled in at a beautifully dressed table surrounded by classic New York elegance, with china, silver, fresh flowers, and the prettiest little details. Everything felt refined without being overly formal.

 

 

 

The Lily of the Valley theme brought its own sense of romance. Lily of the valley has always seemed to me like one of those flowers that represents quiet luxury: delicate, graceful, and unmistakably elegant. It was the perfect inspiration for a tea experience associated with Christian Dior.

 

 

 

And then there was the tea itself.

The beautiful Dior-inspired porcelain, the delicate floral patterns, the teapot warming gently on the table, and a cup of fragrant mandarin jasmine tea made the afternoon feel wonderfully indulgent. I loved the ritual of pouring the tea, taking my time, and simply enjoying the moment. There is something about afternoon tea that encourages you to slow down—and in New York, that feels like a luxury in itself.

 

 

The sandwiches were beautifully arranged on the bottom tier, with delicate little tea sandwiches that were almost too pretty to eat. The middle tier featured the most beautiful little desserts, including a bright lemon-colored pastry and a raspberry creation that looked like a tiny work of art.

And the top tier? More beautiful sweets, including a little cream-filled pastry and a refreshing-looking dessert served in a glass. I was absolutely smitten with the scones and Devonshire cream. Oh my goodness! Those were my favorite. 

 

 

The room added to the magic. Tall windows brought in the greenery outside, while the floral arrangements and traditional furnishings created an atmosphere that felt timeless rather than trendy. It was elegant in that very special New York way: polished, romantic, and quietly glamorous.

What I will remember most, though, is the feeling.

The jasmine-like fragrance in the air, the beautiful flowers, the Dior details, the delicate china, and a warm cup of tea in my hands all came together to create one of those little New York memories that stays with you.

Once I had finished my sandwiches, scones, and desserts, I thought our lovely tea experience had come to an end. But then my waitress surprised me with a little extra treat—Dior cookies!

They were almost too beautiful to eat. Almost. 😊

I tried so hard to save them and keep them for as long as I could. They were just so pretty, with all of their delicate details, and I knew they would make such a sweet little souvenir from our afternoon.

Well…I did eat them.

I couldn’t resist!

I knew they weren’t going to last forever, and honestly, I decided they deserved to be enjoyed rather than simply admired. They were just as delicious as they were beautiful, and they were the perfect little ending to such a special afternoon.

 

 

 

 

 

It took me a while to leave the hotel. The intoxicating scent of jasmine and the effortless elegance of the space made it surprisingly difficult to walk away. Instead, I wandered through the hotel a little longer, taking in every detail and snapping a few photos along the way.

The floral arrangements were unlike anything I had ever seen in person. Each one felt like a work of art, with layers of texture, rich colors, delicate details, and an elegance that was truly unmatched. Everywhere I looked, there was another beautiful arrangement or thoughtful detail that demanded a second glance.

 

 

I did eventually leave the hotel and make my way down Madison Avenue, stopping into a few shops along the way, including Hermès, Loro Piana, Creed, and Dior.

At Dior, I wandered into the Dior Home store, where I couldn’t resist taking a few photos of their beautifully styled table settings. As I studied the china, I found myself admiring the details and, once again, wanting another set of teacups. Everything was thoughtfully curated, right down to the fresh floral arrangements that filled the space.

The customer service was equally exceptional. There was a beautifully dressed gentleman from Venezuela who was incredibly kind and gracious. He seemed to appreciate our warmth and kindness as much as we appreciated his, and before we left, he surprised me with another set of Dior cookies. It was such a lovely and unexpected touch that made the experience even more memorable.

This was such a wonderful day and exactly what I wanted my New York trip to be—filled with beauty, peace, and genuine experiences that I would remember long after returning home.

And, of course, I couldn’t stop thinking about those beautiful Dior teacups! I eventually found and ordered a Christian Dior teacup and saucer set on eBay. I’ve included the link here if you’re interested in taking a look for yourself.

I hope you enjoyed coming along with me for this part of our New York adventure. Thank you for reading, and I’ll be back soon to share more beautiful moments and experiences from our trip!

 

 

 

July Favorites ~ 2026

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Hello Friends,

I’m back from my fourth work trip, and it was hot! I’m truly enjoying this season of my life. Traveling so much has given me a new perspective on life and on people.

Recently, while sitting on a plane, I found myself reflecting and quietly confessing a few things to myself. One realization stood out: I’ve been craving different kinds of relationships and experiences.

I want to be around people who inspire me—people who are well-traveled, kind, spiritually grounded, confident, and generous with their knowledge, stories, and experiences. I want to share beautiful conversations, meaningful moments, and unforgettable places with people who appreciate the richness of life.

I’m not entirely sure why this desire has grown so strong, but I know it’s real. Maybe travel has expanded my perspective, or maybe I’m simply evolving. Whatever the reason, I’m grateful for this new season and excited to see where it leads.

Now on to things I have enjoyed the month of July:

photo credits: Mrs. Shockley 

First up is a little vanity luxury. I recently ordered the Iris Pressed Glass Vase from Anthropologie, and it has become the perfect home for my makeup brushes. It looks absolutely beautiful on my bathroom vanity and instantly elevates the space with a touch of elegance. The vase is available in three different styles, and each one is just as lovely as the next. If you’re looking to add a little beauty to your vanity, I highly recommend collecting all three.

Next up is a new perfume I’ve been enjoying from Caudalie, the same company that created the gorgeous facial mist I absolutely love. This fragrance features notes of raspberry grape, neroli, and patchouli, creating a scent that is light, fresh, floral, and subtly fruity. It’s the perfect fragrance for spring and summer—effortlessly elegant and ideal for everyday wear.

I can’t believe I’m still finding peonies at my local grocery store. These blooms were incredibly fragrant and opened into the most beautiful, full blossoms. Having them in my office throughout the week was such a simple luxury and brought so much joy to my workspace.

Another delightful surprise was the arrival of a new book on the interiors of Bunny Mellon. Written by Charlotte Moss and beautifully illustrated by Snowy Campbell, it is both charming and whimsical. The pages are filled with timeless inspiration, making it a wonderful addition to my growing collection of design books.

Next is a little scarf elegance. I decided to wear my chinoiserie scarf with a coordinating scarf tie, draped gracefully over my shoulders, to the office. The combination felt effortlessly elegant, and I received so many lovely compliments throughout the day. It’s amazing how a simple accessory can elevate an entire outfit.

Then another exciting package arrived! I decided to order the Garden Bag from Holland Cooper, and it is every bit as charming as I had hoped. I adore the delicate frilled edge and the fresh green-and-white color palette. It’s the perfect blend of timeless style and countryside charm, and I know it will be a beautiful companion for the greenhouse seasons ahead.

Then I stumbled upon this glorious find! I’ve been wanting a pair of the Lily of the Valley Dior teacups for quite some time, but they are so expensive. A single teacup costs $240! I found a seller on eBay offering a set of two for just $288, and I even managed to negotiate an even better price by making an offer.

This set is absolutely beautiful and the epitome of elegance. My family and I will be heading to New York soon, and I’ve already scheduled an afternoon tea at the Lowell Hotel. I’ll be sure to share all about the experience once we return!

Aside from my David Austin roses, I feel like this is my greatest gardening accomplishment! I finally have sweet peas growing in my raised beds, and I can hardly believe it. After almost two years of waiting, I got my first blooms this season.

I don’t have many flowers yet, but they are so fragrant and beautiful that I wish I could keep them forever. Seeing them bloom after all this time has made the wait completely worthwhile. I am so proud!

Okay, I know I’m on a teacup kick! I recently purchased another teacup and saucer that has been on my wishlist for quite some time: the Ginori 1735 mug and saucer.

Once again, these pieces are certainly an investment, but they are crafted from fine porcelain and are truly works of art. The craftsmanship and timeless design make them feel just as much like collectibles as they are functional pieces for enjoying a cup of tea.

And lastly, the Manor Candle by Nabela Noor restocked last week—and sold out again! Thankfully, I was able to purchase it this time in the White Musk scent, and I couldn’t love it more.

This candle is the epitome of elegance. From its beautiful design to its luxurious fragrance, it feels like such a special addition to my home. In my opinion, it is absolutely worth the price. If you’ve been hoping to get one, keep your eyes peeled for the next restock—they don’t stay in stock for long!

I hope you found inspiration in this month’s finds! I hope to share some new elegant adventures from our NYC trip soon. 

The Quiet Luxury of Separate Bathrooms

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Life has been moving at full speed lately. Next week, I’ll be heading out on my fourth work trip of the year, with one more scheduled for the end of August. Between work, travel, and everything else on my calendar, it’s safe to say I have a lot going on.

I’ve also recently started an exciting new chapter in my life. I was honored to be elected President-Elect for the Guild! When the results came in, I was genuinely shocked and honestly didn’t expect to win. It is such an incredible honor, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity.

Over the next year, I’ll be working closely with our newly elected President, learning the role and shadowing her before officially stepping into the position of President in June 2027. I’ll also be joining the Eskenazi Board and President’s Table, where I’ll have the opportunity to meet new faces, collaborate with other leaders, and take on new responsibilities.

Before anyone asks—no, I’m not leaving my current job! This is simply an exciting new opportunity that allows me to grow both personally and professionally. It’s an added chapter in my life, and one I truly appreciate.

Now, enough about me! Let’s talk about another dream of mine—having separate bathrooms someday. It may sound like a small luxury, but I think having separate spaces can make a world of difference in creating a more functional, peaceful home. Today, I’m sharing why this feature has earned a spot on my dream home wish list.

We often think that love means sharing everything. Yet the most enduring relationships are rarely those in which every moment and every habit is on display. There is something quietly elegant about preserving a little space that belongs only to oneself. A separate bathroom is more than a luxury; it is an acknowledgment that individuality has a place within togetherness.

 

photo via Pinterest

 

A few years ago, I started hearing about married couples having separate bathrooms. At first, I didn’t think it was actually a thing—but it turns out it is! I even mentioned the idea to my husband about two years ago.

What really made me appreciate the concept was noticing the difference in my own mornings. On the days when my husband has already left for work, I naturally settle into a slower, more intentional routine. I’ll listen to one of my favorite sermons, light a candle, and ease into the day with a calm, peaceful mindset. It’s become a quiet form of self-care that helps me feel grounded before the busyness begins.

When we’re both getting ready at the same time, though, my mornings look very different. We inevitably start talking about our schedules, errands, or other things that could easily wait until later. Before I know it, my attention has shifted, and instead of enjoying a peaceful start to the day, I feel rushed, distracted, and more anxious.

That realization made me understand why separate bathrooms appeal to so many couples. It’s not about wanting distance from one another—it’s about creating space for each person to begin the day in the way that helps them feel their best.

What I have learned is…. 

  • Privacy is not distance. Having your own bathroom doesn’t create emotional separation. It allows each person to begin and end the day without intrusion.
  • Mystery has value. Part of attraction is recognizing that another person remains, in some ways, their own individual. We don’t need to witness every morning routine to be deeply connected.
  • Elegance respects boundaries. A well-designed home considers not only how people gather but also how they retreat.
  • Luxury is about peace. Separate bathrooms reduce small daily frustrations and create moments of calm, making shared time more enjoyable.

 

photo via Pinterest

 

I still remember my mornings in my early twenties when I lived in my apartment. I’d light a few candles, turn on one of my favorite sermons, and relax in a bubble bath before starting my day. Looking back, those quiet mornings were such a gift, and I find myself missing them now.

I also love the idea of creating a bathroom that reflects my personal style. I can picture a beautiful vintage chair tucked into the corner, antique vessels displayed on the countertop, soft lighting, and, of course, a favorite candle burning. It would feel less like just another room in the house and more like a peaceful retreat.

For me, a separate bathroom isn’t about creating distance in a marriage. It’s about creating peace. It’s about having a space where I can begin each morning feeling calm, centered, and ready for whatever the day brings. And when my day begins in peace, I find I have so much more of myself to give to the people I love.

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you have separate bathrooms, or is it something you would consider in your dream home? Let me know in the comments below.

 

 

 

A Dress Code at Home

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Hello Everyone,

I hope you all enjoyed your holiday! We kept things simple this year by having dinner with our kids and spending the evening watching movies. It was a relaxing way to celebrate together.

There are so many exciting things I am preparing for right now, and I look forward to sharing an update with you very soon.

I am still reading Living Beautifully Together by Alexandra Stoddard, and I recently came across a sentence that really made me stop and think. She writes, “A man who wanders around the house in only his underdrawers insults his wife and children.”

That quote immediately got me thinking about the way we dress at home. We’ve discussed this topic on the blog before, so it isn’t a new conversation, but it is one that I believe is always worth revisiting.

The way we present ourselves within our own homes says something about the respect we have for ourselves and for those we love. While comfort certainly has its place, there is also value in dressing with a sense of care and dignity, even when no one outside the family will see us. Home is where our habits are formed, and the atmosphere we create begins with the small, everyday choices we make.

 

photo credit: Pinterest

 

I simply adore this vintage photograph of a mother and daughter in their nightwear. I have been searching for a gown like this for quite some time now, as there is something so graceful and timeless about it.

Making sure I have lovely, modest gowns to wear to bed has always been a priority for me. Even when I lived alone in my apartment at just twenty years old, I wore vintage-style gowns around my home. They made everyday life feel a little more beautiful and always brought a smile to my face.

I have long believed that what we wear at home influences how we feel. Slipping into a pretty gown at the end of the day transforms an ordinary evening into something a bit more special, reminding me that elegance is not reserved for public occasions—it begins within the walls of our own homes.

 

photo credit: Pinterest

 

Another inspiring photograph! This image features Jasmine Guy from the beloved 1980s television show A Different World. I have always admired the effortless elegance portrayed in many older television shows. Even in quiet moments at home, the women were often dressed in beautiful robes or flowing gowns that reflected a sense of grace and self-respect.

I know television isn’t always an accurate reflection of everyday life, but these images remind me that there is beauty in creating a lovely home environment and in dressing with intention, even when no one else is around. There is something undeniably uplifting about slipping into a beautiful nightgown at the end of the day. It transforms an ordinary evening into a peaceful ritual and reminds us that elegance begins at home.

What is your dress code at home?